30A Breaking News

Kayce Dutton’s Journey Continues In Marshals Marshals marks the next chapter in the Yellowstone universe, centered solely on Kayce Dutton. The series follows John Dutton’s son as he takes a decisive turn in his life, joining an elite team of U.S. Marshals.  During the season premiere, a major bombshell was revealed immediately – as Kayce’s beloved wife, Monica, has […] More Country Music Nation  Read More

 [[{“value”:” By Dr. Joshua Bledsoe, Public Information Officer The Walton County School District has entered the final nine weeks of the semester, and with only one remaining holiday on the calendar, schools across the district are focused on finishing strong. April is about maintaining momentum, supporting students, and continuing to Keep the Charge through the end of the school year. Teachers are reinforcing key standards, students are preparing for end-of-year assessments, and campuses are emphasizing attendance, engagement, and consistency. Every instructional day matters as Walton County students push toward a successful close to the year. April Recognitions April also brings several important recognitions across the district: Month of the Military Child — Students and staff will Purple Up on April 15 to recognize and support military-connected families National Assistant Principals Week — April 6-10 Administrative Professionals Day — April 22 School Bus Driver Appreciation Day — April 28 School Library Month — Celebrating the impact of school libraries and media specialists on student learning Child Abuse Prevention Month — Promoting safe, supportive environments for all students Join the EPIC Team Walton County School District will host a Job Fair on May 11 at the CHAT Center in DeFuniak Springs (555 Walton Rd.). Community members interested in joining the district are encouraged to attend and learn more about available instructional and support positions. Walton County Schools continues to build its EPIC team with strong leadership, excellent starting pay, competitive benefits, and a supportive work environment focused on student success. With the... Read More

 [[{“value”:” By Dr. Karen DeVore, Tortoise Clinic We live in a culture that glorifies speed — fast food, fast results, fast fixes. But true longevity doesn’t come from rushing. It comes from consistency, balance, and tending to the body with intention over time. Longevity isn’t simply about adding years to your life. It’s about adding life to your years. Through an integrative and holistic approach to medicine, we focus on optimizing how you feel today while protecting your health for decades to come. Here are the five keys I believe are foundational to living longer and living well. Reduce Inflammation at the Root Chronic inflammation is one of the most significant drivers of aging and disease. It’s linked to heart disease, diabetes, autoimmune conditions, cognitive decline, and chronic pain. In integrative health, we don’t just suppress symptoms. We ask why inflammation is present. Is it driven by diet? Stress? Gut imbalance? Environmental toxins? Hormonal shifts? By identifying and addressing root causes through anti-inflammatory nutrition, targeted supplementation, acupuncture, stress management, and lifestyle modifications, we can reduce the internal “fire” that accelerates aging and instead create an environment where the body can repair and regenerate. Support Metabolic Health Your metabolism is far more than calorie-burning. It’s the foundation of energy, hormone balance, blood sugar stability, and long-term vitality. Insulin resistance, blood sugar spikes, poor sleep, and chronic stress all impair metabolic function and accelerate aging. Supporting metabolic health through whole-food nutrition, strength training, adequate protein intake, sleep optimization, and strategic supplementation helps... Read More

 [[{“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

 [[{“value”:” Farmers Markets Windmills in Freeport Every Other Saturday 4-8 p.m. Grand Blvd. Saturdays 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Grayton Locals Market Thursdays 10 a.m.-2 p.m. at Hibiscus Guest House Seaside Amphitheater Saturdays and Tuesdays 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Peddlers Pavilion Sundays 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Rosemary Beach at North Barrett Square Sundays 9 a.m.-1 p.m. ECTC Children’s Theater at Seaside Mondays Step into a world of magic, mischief, and moonlit romance as Emerald Coast Theatre Company presents A Midsummer Night’s Dream in a family-friendly adaptation at the SEASIDE Amphitheater. Beginning at 6 p.m. Mondays through August 3rd, bring a blanket and enjoy dinner from any of Seaside’s delicious eateries. This joyful retelling of Shakespeare’s beloved comedy brings love, laughter, and live theatre to Central Square. It’s an enchanting experience for audiences of all ages. Huck & Lilly @ Seaside Ampitheatre Tuesdays and Thursdays Huck & Lilly will perform LIVE in the Seaside Amphitheater Tuesdays and Thursdays from 5-5:45 p.m. Bring a chair or blanket, snacks and drinks, and enjoy the show. Free and open to all ages. Singer/songwriters Ken Johnson and Andi Zack-Johnson, as Huck and Lilly, specialize in music for kids AND the grown-ups who love them! Bark for Books at Coastal Branch Library Wednesdays Join Dog-Harmony and the Walton County Coastal Library for Bark for Books—a tail-waggingly fun way for kids to build confidence by reading aloud to a friendly therapy dog! Held every Wednesday from 3:30-4:30 p.m. through May 20, this unique literacy program gives children the chance to practice... Read More

 [[{“value”:” By Don Carter, SecureVision Spring along the Emerald Coast is when communities prepare for the busy season ahead. HOAs and condo associations begin their annual maintenance routines. Landscaping is refreshed, roofs are inspected, pools reopen, and common areas are prepared for residents and guests. These efforts protect property values and keep communities looking their best. However, one critical system is often left off the checklist: internet service. Today, reliable connectivity is just as essential to a community as water, electricity, and security. Residents depend on it for remote work, streaming, smart home devices, and staying connected with family and friends. In larger condominium communities and master-planned developments, where full-time residents, seasonal owners, and vacation guests all rely on the same infrastructure, connectivity issues can quickly impact hundreds of people at once. Spring is the ideal time for boards to review their internet service before peak season arrives. Many associations remain in contracts that automatically renew year after year, even as the number of connected devices inside each home continues to grow. A service level that worked five years ago may no longer meet the expectations of today’s residents. An annual review gives boards the opportunity to confirm service levels, evaluate pricing, and ensure providers are delivering the performance the community expects. Equipment should also be part of the conversation. Routers, switches, and wireless access points do not last forever. Older hardware can struggle during periods of high occupancy, particularly during spring break and summer when usage spikes dramatically. Reviewing... Read More

 [[{“value”:” Benefit Caring & Sharing of South Walton Sea Shul will host the 2nd Annual Sea Shul Scramble Golf Tournament on Sunday, April 19, 2026, at Legacy Golf Course in Panama City Beach, with proceeds benefiting both Sea Shul and Caring & Sharing of South Walton. The tournament is organized by Sea Shul’s Mensch Club, the organization’s men’s group, and is designed to bring the community together for a day of golf in support of local charitable efforts. “One of Sea Shul’s goals is to be part of, and give back to our community,” said Louise Short, MD, MSc, President of Sea Shul. “The golf tournament provides a great opportunity for everyone involved to help Caring and Sharing, an organization that is so dedicated to assisting those in need.” Registration begins at 8 a.m., followed by a 9 a.m. shotgun start. The event includes a bagel breakfast sponsored by Breezy’s, driving range access, green fees, cart, on-course refreshments, and a post-tournament lunch. Participants will also receive tournament goodie bags. Tournament features include team awards, longest drive and closest-to-the-pin contests, raffle prizes, and a silent auction. Additional on-course opportunities, including mulligans and red tee options, will be available for purchase. This marks the second year of the tournament. The inaugural event raised more than $8,000 to support local initiatives. Caring & Sharing of South Walton, a nonprofit serving more than 850 families each month, provides food assistance, financial support, and crisis services throughout Walton County. “Support from events like this directly... Read More

 [[{“value”:” Khoury Vogt Architects Recognized for Their Role in Shaping the Community’s Architectural Vision 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.” 1 of 4 Scenic Walton Executive Director Leigh Moore presents the Scenic Walton Design Excellence Award to Robert Stenhammer, Vice President and General Manager of Alys Beach, on February 26, 2026. Stenhammer accepted the award on behalf of Alys Beach, EBSCO Industries,... Read More

 [[{“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

 [[{“value”:” By Clint Gharib While May brings the “joy” of final exams and the SAT for those poor souls required to take it, the financial markets may soon face a test of their own: a new Chairman of the Federal Reserve. Historically, whenever a new Fed Chair steps into office, markets rarely remain calm. Investors know that leadership changes can signal shifts in monetary policy. I’ve often heard it said that markets “test the new chairman”—in other words, they push asset prices around to see where the new leader stands on inflation, economic growth, and financial stability. Research compiled by Barclays strategist Alexander Altmann shows that since 1930, the S&P 500 has experienced average peak-to-trough declines of roughly 5% in the first month, about 12% within three months, and approximately 16% within six months after a new Fed chair takes office, according to data reported by Bloomberg. Interestingly, volatility often begins even earlier, sometimes as much as 20 days before the new chair officially assumes the role. Yet those early swings rarely define the full story. Over longer periods, markets have historically recovered, with returns over the following year tending to move back toward the S&P 500’s long-term average annual gain of roughly 10%. Once investors begin to understand the new chair’s policy framework, market focus typically shifts back to corporate earnings and economic growth. History reminds us that short-term policy uncertainty does not necessarily change long-term market outcomes. For investors, periods like this highlight an important distinction: reacting emotionally... Read More