When tragedy strikes, local journalism leads
The following was originally published July 12, 2025, at editorandpublisher.com and is a transcript of a vodcast series hosted by Mike Blinder. This perfectly encompasses how our newspapers and reporters feel about the role of newspapers.
Sand available at four locations in county ahead of rainfall
Santa Rosa County may experience heavy rainfall resulting in flooding from Invest 93L. According to the U.S. National Weather Service Mobile Office, local impacts will be dependent on whether this system stays near the coastline or stays out over the Gulf and may include:
Precautionary boil water notice for customers of Bagdad-Garcon Point Water System
A main break has occurred and/or a loss of pressure has been experienced.
Pace man arrested for homicide in fentanyl-related 2023 death
A Pace man was booked into Santa Rosa County Jail Wednesday, July 9, for his involvement in a drug-related death.
Jimmy Robinson, 28, is charged with homicide. According to the Santa Rosa County Sheriff’s Office, an investigation across multiple years found Robinson responsible for the overdose death of a person in 2023.For God’s Sake
I have found that few people object to hearing me say, “I will pray for you.” Most thank me, even those I know who do not believe in God. They understand from my words that I care about them.
A veto pen and a grudge?
The governor’s veto pen hit Santa Rosa County hard this year, striking down more than $2 million in requested funding for local projects. Among the casualties were the wetlands conservation of a 27.57-acre parcel, the expansion of the Whiting Field taxiway, and continued support for our Veterans Treatment Court. These aren’t frivolous expenses; they’re strategic investments in environmental protection, infrastructure, and justice for those who’ve served our country. The impact of these cuts is not just fiscal — it’s deeply personal for the communities depending on them.
Santa Rosa County schools see across-board student performance improvements
Santa Rosa County District Schools recently received student performance metrics from the 2024-25 state assessments. According to the district, there were notable increases in student performance in English Language Arts, Geometry, Biology, Civis and U.S. History.
Precautionary boil water notice for customers of Bagdad – Garcon Point Water System
A main break has occurred and/or a loss of pressure has been experienced.
Avalon Beach developers heavily fined by DEP
The Florida Department of Environmental Protection handed out hefty fines July 2 to Avalon Beach developers Kip Walker (Damon Drive) and Thomas Cornelison (Furlong Drive) of $197,250 and $67,500, respectively, for their role in allowing red clay sediment into Mulat Bayou over the past year or more.
Attempted Milton drug deal goes awry
On July 2, Santa Rosa County Sheriff’s Office responded to the 7900 block of Kamie Court in Milton after reports of shots fired.














