Community News

Walton County Named as Fastest Growing Local Economy in Florida In a recent story published by Watchdog News, Walton County was named the fastest growing local economy in a Wall Street 24/7 analysis of growth domestic product growth from 2012 to 2015. Per the article, “Walton County recorded a 53...
By Heather Bennett If you live in South Walton, or just visiting, it’s easy to see that 30A is an artist’s paradise lined with art galleries, and art events throughout the year. There’s plenty for the adults, but where can kids go to create art? The new creative space Rock...
Every March, the Florida Panhandle hosts thousands of spring break students of all ages and from all areas of the country. While most come to our state to enjoy the surf and sand, other spring breakers arrive to volunteer. This month, multiple groups worked with the Choctawhatchee Basin Alliance...
The Sacred Heart Foundation is rolling out the green carpet for the inaugural Emerald Ball on Saturday, May 18 at the Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa. The black-tie gala, presented by St. Joe Community Foundation and Howard Group, will benefit the expansion of the Comprehensive Spine Program...
Steve Vaggalis, lead Pastor of Destiny Worship Center (DWC), along with his wife, Jackie, are the founders of a multi-campus church with locations in Destin, Panama City Beach, Freeport, Crestview, and soon, Fort Walton Beach. Beginning in 2001, Destiny has grown from 100 in attendance at their first service...
South Walton Mosquito Control District Director Ben Brewer is a very excited fellow these days. In a recent interview, Ben announced the purchase of some new and promising equipment he believes will enhance the overall mission of the SWMCD. The machine, a Buffalo Turbine, employs a large fan to...
The Tourist Development Tax (TDT) is also called a“bed tax,” but why is that, and what does it mean? Simply put, the bed tax is collected from hotels, condos and other types of short term rentals(six months or less). In South Walton, this tax is almost exclusively paid by tourists,...
What would you call a guy who had a Pacemaker installed, heart attack, quadruple bypass, Mitro Valve replacement, and then a stroke during surgery – all in one day? Most would say “deceased.” Or so you’d think. That was October 20th of 2017 for Santa Rosa Beach resident Steve...
Caring and Sharing of South Walton is excited to share details of its 10th Annual Spring Fashion Show and Luncheon, “ Spring into Fashion.” This year, the event will be held Saturday, February 23, at the Vue on 30a. Tickets are $35, and guests will enjoy lunch and a...