The unknown Civil War battle you’ve never heard of at this unique Florida vacation destination

On a quiet summer morning in 1861, a minor skirmish at East Pass, Florida—later dubbed the “Battle of Destin”—marked a tense confrontation between the USS Water Witch and local Confederate militia. This brief, bloodless exchange near the Choctawhatchee Bay reveals the war’s grip on the local community, specifically the family of Leonard Destin, whose loyalties were tested amid the shifting tides of the American Civil War.
Walton County Faces A Budget Crunch – Commissioners Don’t Agree and Lack Set Priorities

Walton County commissioners debated hiring, spending, and priorities as officials prepare for possible property tax revenue losses.
Federal Immigration Cases Highlight Repeat Illegal Reentry in Okaloosa County

Federal prosecutors announced 16 immigration convictions in June, including multiple cases originating in Okaloosa and Walton counties.
Stars, Stripes, and Smiles Fill Grayton Beach: Today on 30A

Thousands filled Grayton Beach for its annual Fourth of July Parade featuring patriotic floats, water cannons, classic cars and unforgettable family fun.
The Creek’s unexpected, costly disaster at Shoal River

On Independence Day, 1837, the militiamen cornered the Creek warriors at a bend in the Shoal River, which, if you look at it on a map, eerily resembles Horseshoe Bend. The 70 or so Jackson County militiamen engaged about 100 Creek, just a portion of the total number of warriors estimated in the area, and routed them. As they fled across the river, they left between eight and ten dead Creek behind, according to Pensacola State Historian Brian Rucker. Jackson County’s men took three wounded in the 20-minute battle.
Scenic Walton has Commission interest and support to make this seriously expensive beautification upgrade

Walton County leaders are exploring a countywide underground utility project aimed at improving storm resilience and beautifying the community.
Alleged Elder Abuse, Guns, and Felony Charges for Freeport Woman

A Freeport woman is accused of battering her 71-year-old father and illegally possessing firearms despite a prior felony conviction.
How Vacationers Made a Lasting Difference for Big Redfish Lake

Guests staying at two popular 30A resorts helped raise more than $2,000 to protect one of Walton County’s rare coastal dune lakes through an Earth Day promotion.
DeFuniak Springs, where the audits are better, but maybe not the water pipes?

DeFuniak Springs leaders celebrated improved audits but faced heated debate over aging water pipes, airport rent relief, and future city infrastructure projects.
DeFuniak Springs Welcomes New Eglin Federal Credit Union Branch

Eglin Federal Credit Union celebrated the grand opening of its new DeFuniak Springs Branch, expanding financial services and member access in Walton County.