Basin Alliance changes name, claims expanded mission.
The organization claims its renaming promises enhanced local water protection and increased coordination, pending verification of impact.
Officials Confirm Local West Nile Virus Case in Walton County.
DOH-Walton claims a confirmed local human West Nile virus case, spurring prevention efforts.
Today on 30A
Although school is back in full gear, high season continues with visitors along the Emerald Coast. Temperatures continue to be high, and everyone is looking for some shade. Stay hydrated and have a great weekend. -Steven Photo credit: Steven Saul. Related
The powerful story of Defuniak’s unlikely WWII Hero, Ewart Sconiers
From childhood hardship in DeFuniak Springs to the cockpit of a B-17, Ewart Sconiers’ life was defined by resilience. After flying his first combat mission on August 17, 1942, Sconiers displayed extraordinary valor just days later, piloting his crippled bomber to safety and securing a place in aviation history.
14 Years Behind Bars After Fatal Highway 90 Collision
Justin Echternacht was sentenced to 14 years in state prison followed by one year of probation for DUI manslaughter after a 2023 Highway 90 crash killed another driver. Prosecutors said Echternacht crossed the center line, while investigators later found cocaine, THC and alcohol in his system.
Whiplash and unexpected upsets: Primary provides election excitement on Emerald Coast
Primary night in Okaloosa and Walton Counties saw low voter turnout, leading to a mix of predictable incumbent victories and a major shakeup in local government. While Okaloosa voters largely stuck with incumbents, Walton County voters delivered a significant upset in the Commission District 2 race, signaling potential change ahead.
The hard-to-find history of Northwest Florida State College
On August 17, 1964, Northwest Florida State College opened its doors as Okaloosa-Walton Junior College. Operating out of a building now housing the Northwest Florida Heritage Museum, the school far exceeded expectations, enrolling over 1,300 students in its first year despite original projections of only 150. Here’s the history of Northwest Florida State College.
The Relentless Citizen: Alan Osborne’s Second Mission
Alan Osborne spent 35 years in Army and Air Force Special Operations before turning his focus to local government oversight. Now a familiar figure at public meetings across Walton and Okaloosa counties, he digs through records, challenges officials, and says his work is simply an extension of the oath he took decades ago.
A Stunning Wildlife Recovery: Hotdog and Donatello’s Journey Back to the Gulf
The Gulfarium CARE Center released two rehabilitated loggerhead sea turtles, Hotdog and Donatello, at Inlet Beach after both recovered from fishing‑hook injuries. Crowds gathered to watch the pair return to the Gulf, marking another successful rescue effort supported by the St. Joe Community Foundation and local wildlife partners.
August Surprise? Glidewell hammered for use of tuition program
Walton County Attorney Clay Adkinson confirmed that county commissioners are ineligible for tuition reimbursement, creating a political controversy for Commissioner Danny Glidewell. Glidewell, who faces re-election on August 18, received over $11,000 in taxpayer funds for an advanced degree through a program the county attorney says excludes elected officials.
