30A Breaking News

General News April 8, 2026

Scenic Walton Honors Alys Beach with Design Excellence Award

[[{“value”:” Scenic Walton proudly presented its Design Excellence Award to Alys Beach during a special ceremony on February 26, 2026, recognizing the community’s extraordinary commitment to architectural integrity, thoughtful planning, and enduring scenic beauty along Walton County’s Scenic Highway 30A corridor. The award was accepted by Robert Stenhammer, Vice President and General Manager of Alys Beach, on behalf of Alys Beach and its owner, EBSCO Gulf Coast Development, Inc. The award was presented by Leigh Moore, Executive Director of Scenic Walton, with Tony Vallee, President of the Scenic Walton Board of Directors, in attendance representing the organization’s board. Scenic Walton’s Design Excellence Award celebrates businesses and organizations that demonstrate exceptional commitment to excellent architecture, landscaping, signage, and overall scenic quality in the built environment. Since its launch in 2017, the award has recognized projects that enhance the visual character and environmental appeal of Walton County. “Alys Beach represents one of the most thoughtfully designed and carefully executed communities anywhere along our coast,” said Leigh Moore, Executive Director of Scenic Walton. “Its commitment to architectural excellence, timeless design, and respect for place has set a standard not only for Walton County but for coastal communities nationwide.” Moore added, “Few communities along the Gulf Coast demonstrate the level of architectural discipline and continuity found at Alys Beach. The development’s dedication to maintaining a clear architectural vision over time has helped create a place that is both visually distinctive and deeply connected to its coastal environment.” During the ceremony, Stenhammer and Moore also... Read More

General News April 8, 2026

ECTC Presents 1980’S Iconic “Mystic Pizza” from April 30–May 17

[[{“value”:” Friendship, love, and small-town dreams take center stage as Emerald Coast Theatre Company (ECTC) closes its thirteenth season with Mystic Pizza. This iconic coming-of-age story runs April 30 through May 17, with performances Thursday through Saturday at 7 p.m. and matinees on Wednesdays and Sundays at 2 p.m., at ECTC’s theater in Grand Boulevard at Miramar Beach. Based on the beloved classic film, Mystic Pizza follows three young women navigating life, love, and the uncertainty of what comes next, all while working less than glamorous jobs at a local pizza shop in a coastal town. As they chase their dreams and discover who they are, their bond with one another is tested and strengthened in ways that are both heartfelt and relatable. With humor, nostalgia, and a vibrant soundtrack of 1980s and 1990s hits like “Girls Just Want to Have Fun,” “Addicted to Love,” and “Nothing’s Gonna Stop Us Now,” Mystic Pizza captures the magic of growing up and finding your place in the world. “Mystic Pizza is a story about friendship, growing up, and the moments you look back on years later and realize changed everything,” said Nathanael Fisher, Producing Artistic Director. “It’s nostalgic, heartfelt, and full of music that audiences will instantly connect with.” The leading trio features Tennessee natives Shea Grande as Josephina “Jo/Jojo” Barboza and Presley Ann Calonge as Daisy Araujo, alongside Olivia Evans as Katherine “Kat” Araujo, coming to the ECTC stage from Lawrence, Kansas. Returning to the ECTC stage are several familiar faces,... Read More

General News April 8, 2026

Recipe: Classic Shrimp Cocktail

[[{“value”:” Shrimp cocktail might be retro, but when done right, this party staple is never out of style. This classic version boasts big, plump, perfectly-cooked shrimp with a lemony, horseradish-spiked cocktail sauce. It’s incredibly easy to make and rivals the shrimp cocktail served at the finest restaurants and steakhouses. The key is to use jumbo shell-on shrimp and be careful not to overcook them. You want to have a timer and an ice bath ready before you start cooking; the shrimp cook in 2-4 minutes, and they need to be plunged into cold water immediately after to stop the cooking process. Classic Shrimp Cocktail: Yield: 6 servings Ingredients For the Shrimp 36 medium-large shrimp 1 thick slice lemon 3 sprigs parsley 1 peeled onion 3 to 4 peppercorns 1 tsp salt For the Cocktail Sauce 3/4 cup chili sauce 2 to 3 tbsp horseradish 2 to 3 tbsp lemon juice 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce 1 tsp grated onion 1/4 tsp salt Few drops of Tabasco sauce Finely chopped celery, optional Lettuce, for serving, optional Preparation Prepare the Shrimp: In a medium pot, combine the lemon, parsley, onion, peppercorns, and salt and 6 cups of water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Fill a large bowl with ice and cold water and set next to the sink. Bring to a boil and add the shrimp. Simmer for 2 to 4 minutes, depending on the size, until shrimp are pink and cooked through. Do not overcook. Drain the shrimp in a... Read More

General News April 8, 2026

From Death to Life: Stephanie McMinn’s BeGenerous Ministry Brings Hope to Local Women

[[{“value”:” By Michelle Ruschman Stephanie McMinn, founder of BeGenerous, has been providing resources and coming alongside women and their families since 2010. It all began with simply providing diapers to single mothers, but since then, her organization has grown into a source of hope for the women of Okaloosa, Walton, and Bay counties. “I was 16 when I had my first child, so I know what it’s like to be a young mother with limited resources. There were food pantries and clothes closets, but there was no diaper bank. One day, I called the health department trying to see where I could help, and the case worker shared with me that while she watched a client dress her baby, she noticed that the baby was dressed without a diaper. When she pointed out that it was missing, the mom told her she hadn’t forgotten. She hadn’t put it on because they couldn’t afford to have the baby in a diaper while they were at home. From that story, I started going into these homes and seeing how much the mothers were struggling when the home had an absent father, or the dad was in prison. There was poverty, drugs, and sexual exploitation. Once I saw this happening in my own backyard, it wasn’t something I could unsee, and I knew I had to do something about it.” BeGenerous now includes “The Yellow House” and “Pearl House,” which offer refuge, healing, and transformation through a 24-month residential recovery program. The women come... Read More

General News April 8, 2026

South Walton Fire District Lifeguard Named Soldier of the Year

[[{“value”:” By Mackenzie McClintock, SWFD Public Information Officer South Walton Fire District Beach Safety Lieutenant Brandon Brown has been named the Florida National Guard’s Soldier of the Year, earning the honor at the 2026 Best Warrior Competition and bringing statewide recognition to the South Walton community. His recent accomplishment at the 2026 Best Warrior Competition included rising to the top of a stout field of candidates, proving to have the best overall score in events such as land navigation, warrior tasks and battle drills, physical fitness tests, rucking, and water survival. The contest also required several days of advanced training and studying to prepare. “We couldn’t be prouder of Brandon and what he has accomplished not just here at home, but through his military service,” said SWFD Fire Chief Ryan Crawford. “He continuously seeks out opportunities to improve himself and exemplifies the kind of dedication we strive to commend in our agency, especially in his role as an instructor for future lifeguards.” Lieutenant Brown is a familiar face for many around South Walton thanks to his role as the SWFD Junior Lifeguard Program Coordinator. His role with this program involves coaching more than 200 children each summer to master skills like rip current safety and open water swimming, as well as learn what it takes to work professionally as a beach lifeguard. Brandon also manages SWFD Beach Safety’s Drone Program and serves as a key contributor to additional public education and recruiting events throughout the year. In his military career,... Read More

General News April 8, 2026

The Area’s Hottest Magic & Comedy Show Returns – Bigger, Bolder and More Interactive Than Ever

[[{“value”:” The magic is back, and it’s hotter than ever. After a wildly successful debut season at The Palms Resort, the Magic & Comedy Destin residency is returning for an encore year—bringing fresh upgrades, up-close illusions and a high-energy experience that’s equal parts jaw-dropping and laugh-out-loud fun. This isn’t your typical night out. From the moment you step into the newly enhanced showroom—now featuring all table seating—you’re part of the action. Sip your favorite cocktail (or mocktail) delivered straight to your table while world-class performers take the stage just inches away. No lines, no distractions—just pure, immersive entertainment. At the center of it all is headliner Bart Rockett, a seasoned performer with a global résumé and a knack for keeping audiences on the edge of their seats. With a career that spans more than 90 countries, his own nationally syndicated TV show and a long-running theater in Branson, Rockett brings big-stage talent to an intimate, coastal setting. And here’s where it gets even more fun—his show blends slick, sophisticated magic with sharp comedy and crowd interaction, making every performance feel personal, unpredictable and completely unforgettable. Add in his signature ventriloquism (honed under the mentorship of Jeff Dunham), and you’ve got a night that truly delivers something for everyone. Even better? It’s a family affair. Rockett’s children, Kadan and Brooklyn, make special guest appearances throughout the season. You may recognize them from film, television and even a viral Super Bowl commercial with nearly 800 million views. Their star power adds... Read More

General News April 8, 2026

Warning: Unlimited Tacos and Tequila Coming May 16

[[{“value”:” Every May, Extreme Festival & Events transforms the Village of Baytowne Wharf at Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort into the Gulf Coast’s most spirited fiesta — and this year is no exception. The 13th Annual Tequila & Taco Fest returns on Saturday, May 16, 2026, bringing together the best tacos, the finest tequilas, and an energy that simply cannot be matched anywhere on the Emerald Coast. Recognized as the second longest-running Tequila & Taco Fest in the United States and a Gold Medal winner for Best Event in Walton County, this award-winning festival has earned its place as a beloved spring tradition for locals and visitors from across the Southeast. With a history of sellouts, early ticket purchases are strongly encouraged. From 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM, more than 30 top taco vendors will fire up their grills and compete for the prestigious title of Best Taco in Northwest Florida, with a $4,250 total prize purse on the line — including a $2,500 grand prize for first place. Guests enjoy unlimited taco tastings as they make their way through every booth, while judges score each entry on taste, presentation, and texture. The Best Margarita Competition adds even more flair, with both judge and People’s Choice awards up for grabs. Beyond the competition, guests can explore 40 tequila tasting tents offering unlimited tequila and margarita tastings, enjoy imported beers, and dance to live music and a mariachi band all afternoon. Thrill-seekers can test their limits in the Macho Nacho Eating Contest and the fiery Muy Caliente Pepper Eating Contest — each offering a $250 prize to the bravest competitor. Show off your festival style in the Best Dressed... Read More

General News April 8, 2026

Raise a Glass: Sandestin Wine Festival April 19

[[{“value”:” The 39th year of being THE BEST! It’s time to raise your glasses and celebrate spring right in our own backyard. The 39th Annual Sandestin Wine Festival returns to the Village of Baytowne Wharf from Thursday, April 16, to Sunday, April 19, 2026, offering a weekend full of flavor, fun and coastal charm that has become a signature of our region. A pioneer among Emerald Coast festivals, the Sandestin Wine Festival has drawn locals and visitors alike for more than three decades, all eager to experience the culture and vibe of the Northwest Florida Gulf Coast in a fun-filled, come-as-you-are atmosphere. Whether you’re a wine aficionado or a curious newcomer, there’s something for everyone with hundreds of featured wines. Consistently topping area polls as a must-experience event, this beloved festival offers four full days of unique experiences including wine dinners with celebrity chefs, yoga, live music, interactive experiences, culinary tents and, of course, wine tastings. The festival’s Grand Wine Tastings, Friday from 5–8 p.m. and Saturday from 1–4 p.m., will feature more than 500 wines from domestic and international vineyards. It’s your chance to meet the makers, explore new varieties and discover wines to suit every taste and budget. Pair your pours with gourmet bites during the Savor South Walton experience, featuring creative, coastal-inspired, bite-sized dishes from some of the area’s top chefs, expertly paired with wine selections. A returning favorite, the Bubbly & Boozy Tent on Sandestin’s Grand Lawn offers a playful tasting experience featuring sparkling wines and... Read More

General News April 8, 2026

Bowlegs 70 Brings a Swarm of Swashbuckling Pirates May 14-16

[[{“value”:” By Christopher Manson Rique Gwin, a/k/a Captain Billy Bowlegs LXX, is ready for the annual Billy Bowlegs Pirate Festival happening May 14-16 at the Fort Walton Beach Landing Park; but that’s not all he’s been up to this year. Gwin’s role as Captain Billy goes beyond the festival. Being “Captain Billy” includes promoting tourism in the area, “advertising how wonderful Fort Walton Beach is,” he elaborates. Gwin and his Krewe travel from Bradenton on up to Minnesota, visiting lots of regional pirate festivals. Gwin anticipates around a hundred or so out-of-towners coming to the Emerald Coast in May, a mighty boost for the local economy. Earlier this year, Gwin – as Billy, in full costume – visited Liza Jackson Preparatory School where he read pirate-themed stories to students and handed out beads. Gwin and his “Air Raiders Krewe” will team up with other Krewes in Tallahassee later this year, complete with parade float, to entertain special needs children. Gwin was announced as this year’s Captain Billy at a coronation pageant held last June at Niceville’s Mattie Kelly Arts Center. The identities of Billy’s Queen (Debbie Fisher), First Mate and First Mistress, and Honor Guard were also revealed. Gwin’s involvement with the Krewe dates back 15 years. This year’s festival includes fireworks and live entertainment – the latter in partnership with the City of Fort Walton Beach’s much-loved Concerts on the Landing series – along with lots of vendors. The “skirmish” happens Friday night, after which, Gwin says, laughing, “I’ll... Read More

General News April 8, 2026

Taking a Bite Out of an Invasive Species: Lionfish Tournament May 15-17

[[{“value”:” Emerald Coast Open Lionfish Tournament & Festival Returns May 15–17, 2026 What began as a creative response to an environmental threat has grown into one of the Emerald Coast’s most anticipated—and impactful—spring events. The Emerald Coast Open Lionfish Tournament and Festival returns May 15–17, bringing together divers, chefs, conservationists and families for a weekend that blends competition, cuisine and conservation. Centered around HarborWalk Village, the event is recognized as the largest lionfish tournament in the world—and one that continues to make measurable progress beneath the surface. Big Impact, Growing Each Year The numbers tell a powerful story. During the 2025 tournament, more than 20,000 invasive lionfish were removed from Gulf waters, including 7,180 harvested during the pre-tournament and 13,322 during the two-day competition. Since its inception in 2019, the Emerald Coast Open has now removed over 100,000 lionfish, making a significant dent in one of the region’s most pressing marine challenges. “This event has brought a lot of awareness to the invasive lionfish species and created a festive atmosphere for the enjoyment of our visitors and residents, while fostering prosperity for our local businesses,” said Okaloosa County Commission Chairman Paul Mixon. Lionfish, native to the Indo-Pacific, have no natural predators in the Gulf and reproduce rapidly, threatening native fish populations and reef systems. Because they are not easily caught by traditional hook-and-line fishing, divers using spears play a critical role in controlling their numbers. Competition with a Purpose Divers from across the country travel to Destin to participate,... Read More