[[{“value”:” One of the Emerald Coast’s most anticipated winter traditions is gearing up for another memorable year as the 2026 Seaside School™ Half Marathon + 5K Race Weekend returns Feb. 12–15, 2026. With race registration now officially open, runners, families and supporters are invited to be part of a high-energy weekend where scenic beauty, community connection and a meaningful mission come together along 30A. More than just a race, Seaside School™ Race Weekend is the school’s largest annual fundraiser, with every mile run directly supporting classroom technology, academic programs and teacher initiatives that impact students across Walton County. Each year, the event sells out, drawing participants from across the Southeast who come for the views and stay for the cause. “This weekend truly captures the spirit of our community,” organizers said. “From runners and volunteers to chefs, sponsors and spectators, everyone plays a role in supporting education while celebrating everything that makes Seaside special.” A Weekend Packed with Events Festivities begin with early packet pickup at Seacoast Collegiate High School, 109 Greenway Trail in Santa Rosa Beach, from 4 to 7 p.m. Thursday and Friday, Feb. 12–13, and from 8 to 11 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 14. Runners can also enjoy the Race Expo and official packet pickup from noon to 4 p.m. Saturday at Seaside Neighborhood School, 10 Smolian Circle. Race day arrives Sunday, Feb. 15, with the Half Marathon starting at 7 a.m. CST, followed by the 5K at 7:30 a.m. Participants will wind through Seaside’s iconic streets and... Read More

 [[{“value”:” This year marks 30 years of excellence for The Seaside School, a public charter school system recognized throughout South Walton for academic achievement, strong relationships, and a future-focused approach to education. Serving students in grades 5–12 through Seaside Neighborhood School and Seacoast Collegiate High School, The Seaside School has built a reputation for preparing students not only for college, but for life. At the foundation of The Seaside School’s success is a deep understanding of how adolescents learn, grow, and develop confidence. Across both campuses, students engage in rigorous academics while developing durable life skills including critical thinking, communication, collaboration, adaptability, leadership, and problem-solving that equip them for any path they choose. At Seaside Neighborhood School (grades 5–8), students experience a learning environment intentionally designed for adolescents. Small cohorts, strong teacher-student relationships, and engaging, interdisciplinary instruction help students feel safe, known, and academically confident during these critical years. SNS is known for its focus on literacy, numeracy, inquiry-based learning, and the arts, while also providing leadership and mentorship opportunities that empower students to find their voice. Community engagement is central to the SNS experience. Through arts programming, mentorship, service leadership, and community-based projects, students learn responsibility, empathy, and civic engagement, developing a strong sense of purpose and belonging while contributing meaningfully to the world around them. This strong academic and developmental foundation carries seamlessly into Seacoast Collegiate High School (grades 9–12), where students experience a reimagined high school model that blends traditional student life with advanced academic opportunity. Students... Read More

BAY COUNTY, Fla. (WMBB) – A Georgia man was found guilty Friday afternoon of multiple felonies after threatening and beating a woman during a trip to Bay County in October 2024. According to a news release, 62-year-old Anthony Worley and the victim were in a hotel room on Thomas Drive when he beat her, threatened […] Read More

BAY COUNTY, Fla. (WMBB) – Lynn Haven Mayor Jesse Nelson announced his resignation Friday evening ahead of the recall election. On Friday evening, Nelson confirmed his resignation via an email to Interim City Manager Chris Lightfoot. “Mr. Lightfoot this email is to tender my resignation effective today at 7 pm.” Nelson said in the statement. […] Read More

BAY COUNTY, Fla. (WMBB) – Bay County officials are investigating allegations of fraud tied to planning and zoning applications, which involve false documents and impersonating county representatives, raising concerns about permits, payments, and property development. Bay County officials say they’re seeing a growing number of suspicious planning and zoning applications. “You know, there’s all sorts […] Read More

BAY COUNTY, Fla. (WMBB) – Dozens gathered in anticipation Friday morning at the Habitat for Humanity Village in Bay County. Seven credit unions have joined forces to sponsor a new home for a deserving, local family. Back in October, seven credit unions broke ground together, after sponsoring the construction of a brand new home for […] Read More

BAY COUNTY, Fla. (WMBB) – Franklin County officials have cut the ribbon on their new Lanark EMS station. The 2,600 square foot building provides a central location for ambulances to reach the east side of Franklin County. Cutting back on the drive time has already saved lives. “I just had two strokes and a heart […] Read More

FRANKLIN COUNTY, Fla. (WMBB) – The Franklin County Sheriff’s Office has located the body of missing 26-year-old Daniel Wenger. Wenger was reported missing in Bay County this past weekend. On Monday, a Franklin County Sheriff’s deputy ran a tag on a car at Leonard’s Landing, which came back in Winger’s name. The car was empty, […] Read More

From Scout to Leader: One Project, One Park, One Powerful Impact Staff Reports January 9, 2026 4:11 pm Fort Walton Beach In Brief: Who: Andrew Dali, Scouting America Troop 529 What: Earned Eagle Scout rank by building permanent chess tables When: Project completed in late 2025; announced Jan. 8, 2026 Where: Ferry Park, City of Fort Walton Beach Why: To create a lasting, inclusive recreational space for the community FORT WALTON BEACH, Fla. — A Fort Walton Beach teenager has earned Scouting’s highest honor while leaving a lasting mark on a beloved city park. Andrew Dali, 17, of Scouting America Troop 529, has achieved the rank of Eagle Scout after leading the construction of two permanent concrete chess tables and benches at Ferry Park, creating a new gathering space for chess players and park visitors alike. The project, completed as part of the rigorous Eagle Scout requirements, provides a unique recreational opportunity focused on strategy, learning, and community interaction. Designed to withstand the elements, the tables are intended to serve residents and visitors for generations. Andrew’s project brought fellow Scouts together to plan, design, and execute the build, demonstrating leadership, organization, and perseverance — hallmarks of the Eagle Scout rank. “Andrew has grown into an incredible young leader over the years, and we are very proud of his accomplishment,” said Troop 529 Scoutmaster Chris Cutler. The new chess area complements Ferry Park’s existing amenities by offering a reflective, mentally engaging activity that welcomes both experienced players and newcomers to the... Read More