The Vernon Heritage Festival returned to downtown Vernon on Saturday, April 25, for its second year, bringing together living history reenactors, local vendors, and programming focused on the area’s history, and drawing a strong turnout despite a steady light rain. The free event marked 200 years of local history alongside the nation’s 250th anniversary, giving […]
A Washington County family is beginning the difficult process of rebuilding after losing their home in a devastating fire early Friday morning, April 24, off Highway 79 near New Hope. According to reports, homeowners Marcus Bland and Ammie Pearse were at work when the fire broke out, completely destroying their residence and all belongings inside. The couple lost clothing, important […]
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis visited Washington County on Friday, April 24, to unveil a new statue honoring George Washington, the “Father of Our Country,” as part of the state’s ongoing America 250 Florida celebration marking the nation’s upcoming 250th anniversary. The statue, located in downtown Chipley, pays tribute to Washington’s legacy as a leader who helped shape the […]
On Monday, April 20, the Vernon City Council met to discuss updates from county leadership, the swearing-in of newly elected officials, approval of fire department equipment repairs, the introduction of animal control enforcement measures, the recognition of the queens of the Miss Vernon Pageant, and a reported incident involving the unauthorized use of a city-owned […]
The Town of Caryville is gearing up for its 15th annual Worm Fiddlin’ Festival, set for Saturday, May 9, at the Caryville Civic Center Park, located at 866 Waits Avenue. Gates open at 9 a.m., with the festival’s signature Worm Fiddlin’ Competition beginning at 10 a.m. The long‑running community event will feature a full day […]
The Chipola Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) recently presented the National Defense Medal to Chipley High School JROTC cadet Jaelyn Jordon. The award was presented by chapter representative Cheryl Gainer McCall. Jordon, a freshman, is currently participating in her second year of the JROTC program. Pictured left to right are SFC Jerrad Finn, JROTC cadet […]
A student is in custody and an investigation remains ongoing after a potential threat involving Roulhac Middle School was reported Wednesday, according to releases from the Washington County School District and the Washington County Sheriff’s Office. School district officials said the situation came to light after a tip was submitted through the Fortify Florida app, […]
The Washington County Sheriff’s Office arrested a Chipley man on Wednesday following an investigation into a reported sexual offense involving a minor. Deputies responded on April 15 after receiving notification of the possible offense. Following an on‑scene investigation, 56‑year‑old Scott Eli Cowell of Chipley was taken into custody on charges of Sexual Battery – Victim 12 years or older […]
On Sunday, April 12, a deputy with the Washington County Sheriff’s Office observed a vehicle committing a traffic violation on Highway 77 near Finch Circle, leading to the arrest of a Chipley man. When the deputy activated emergency lights, the driver failed to yield, prompting a brief pursuit during which several baggies were thrown from […]
On Friday, April 10, the Washington County Sheriff’s Office (WCSO) responded to a report of a physical altercation at 3909 Greenwood Drive in Caryville, leading to the arrest of six individuals. According to a release from WCSO, deputies arrived and spoke with the victim, who stated that Cameron Williams and two other subjects had threatened […]
The Washington County Sheriff’s Office is searching for a state inmate who walked away from a work squad in the Sunny Hills area. Authorities advise the public not to approach the individual and to contact law enforcement with any information regarding his whereabouts.
A Washington County Sheriff’s deputy conducted a traffic stop Monday, March 9, after observing a vehicle commit a traffic violation on Highway 79 in Ebro. The deputy pulled in behind the vehicle and activated emergency lights, making contact with the driver and sole occupant, 35‑year‑old Autumn Lauren Walker of Alabama. According to WCSO, the deputy […]
Gov. Ron DeSantis signed a bill Monday night allowing single-family homes to be built on some property zoned for agriculture. The measure (SB 686) allows agricultural land bordered by development to be classified as an “agricultural enclave” and developed at the same density as adjacent parcels. Supporters said the bill is about protecting property rights, […]
Undocumented immigrants would be barred from admission to state colleges under a proposed rule by the Florida Department of Education. The rule would also give schools discretion to consider students’ past misconduct when making admission decisions. Under the proposal, each board of trustees in the Florida College System would be required to “ensure that all […]
As a little girl, I spent delightful moments singing about the little Lord Jesus asleep on the hay. I gazed at our small nativity scene. I loved looking at all the characters gathered devotedly around the newborn child: Mary and Joseph, the angels, the shepherds, the wise men – even the animals. The scene was […]
Michael Brooks I was rendered speechless—highly unusual for a Baptist preacher. I was in college serving a church in the Birmingham area as interim pastor for what became an eight-month assignment. I enjoyed the experience immensely preaching three times a week, attending deacons meetings and visiting the sick. I learned a lot and had a […]
Staff Report
SKYLA CARTER