By STAFF
Photos by Mikiko Tucker, MBA
Public Relations Manager, City of DeFuniak Springs
A crowd of public officials, including the school superintendent, police chief, fire chief, and members of the DeFuniak Springs city council – along with friends, family and well-wishers gathered on the morning of Monday, April 4, 2022, in the alley behind the offices of the DeFuniak Springs Herald.
DeFuniak Springs Mayor Bob Campbell read a proclamation that, in consideration of the newspaper having “provided reliable news to Walton County and surrounding areas for more than 134 years,” and having “promote[d] excellence and professionalism through their reporters,” the alleyway behind the DeFuniak Herald on Baldwin Avenue will from now on be named “Woodham Alleyway,” honoring the Woodham family, owner/publishers of the newspaper. Following the reading, a new street sign was formally posted.
The dedication also equally honors the memory of Benjamin (Ben) Ryan Woodham, the late son of Gary Woodham and Cindy Woodham. Ben was the Herald’s Assistant Publisher and print operations director. The alley was chosen because of its proximity to the DeFuniak Herald editorial office on Baldwin Avenue and the print operations building on 8th Street. The alley was a common path from both buildings which Ben regularly traveled.
The Woodham family emphasized great appreciation to everyone who had a part in this dedication, especially Mack Bailey who initiated this great honor.
Larry and Merle Woodham, of Woodham Family Publishing Company, purchased the newspaper in 1970. Their son, Gary Woodham, is the current owner and publisher.