Two years ago today, Hwy 331 launched with a simple idea: to create a space where the stories of Walton County could be told with intention—connecting the north and south side in one shared community. It began as a digital hub, a place to celebrate milestones, support local businesses, and spotlight the people and places that make this corner of Florida unique.
When Muriel “Midge” Drebing passed away in October 2021, she left behind more than memories. She left a legacy—a $1.9 million gift to the CHELCO Foundation that is still sparking change across Walton, Okaloosa, and surrounding counties.
School is back in session across Walton County, but for a growing number of families, the first week of classes looks different. Instead of yellow buses and traditional classrooms, students are starting their year in barns, gardens, charter campuses, or small, independent schools. Homeschooling, micro-schools, and charter programs are reshaping what “back to school” means in the community.
On Friday morning, August 1, 2025, a large crowd gathered for a moment years in the making as the City of DeFuniak Springs officially cut the ribbon on a brand-new terminal at its municipal airport. Former Florida Senator George Gainer, Representative Shane Abbott, and a long list of state and local officials were on hand to celebrate the $8.4 million project, which marks a major phase in the airport’s long-term expansion plan.
Here’s a bold idea: what if fear wasn’t the signal to scale back, but a cue to reassess and reinvest—with clarity?
Experienced strategists—those who understand the intersection of purpose and profitability—aren’t just line items in your budget. They are the ones who can spot blind spots, identify untapped revenue potential, and help articulate your value in a way that resonates in any economic cycle.
