Tattoos and RV Sales on Facebook – The State of Okaloosa’s Local Economy

The local economy in southern Okaloosa County, supported by a stable defense industry and fluctuating tourism, shows mixed signs of recovery. United Fidelity Bank’s Ed Burns highlights unique economic indicators such as the sluggish sales of RVs, boats, and golf clubs, empty sports bars, and a decline in tattoo business, pointing to cautious consumer spending and underlying financial hesitations. Despite these trends, the local market remains optimistic, with signs of future growth as businesses and properties change hands.

Valparaiso Couple Wins $100,000 Wedding By Doing This!

Brandon Lang and Lesley Lowrey, natives of Destin and Niceville, recently won a $100,000 wedding weekend in a contest sponsored by three northwest Florida businesses. Their victory, achieved through widespread community voting, means the couple will have their dream wedding in Pensacola on November 17th, free of financial stress and planning worries. The couple, who met at 16 while working at a movie theater, plan to live in Valparaiso after their nuptials.

Meet the Man Responsible For Quality of Care At Your Next Niceville Hospital Visit:

a man smiles on a graphic.

Morgan Talley, the new Chief Nursing Officer at Twin Cities Hospital, found his calling in healthcare at a young age, influenced by his frequent childhood asthma treatments. With over two decades of experience and advanced degrees in nursing, Talley is dedicated to leading and supporting his nursing staff while planning for the hospital’s future growth in Okaloosa County.

Post 20 Restaurant Opens In Niceville As Team Recovers From Tragedy

Niceville’s newest sushi restaurant, Post 20, held its soft opening Sunday night, honoring the memory of ‘Sushi Mike’ Ledford, who passed away in February. Co-owner Justin Trotter, alongside friends and family, celebrated the long-awaited dream while paying tribute to Mike with heartfelt stories and a mural by local artist Emily Little. The restaurant opens to the public on May 22nd, amid ongoing legal proceedings for the man accused of Mike’s death.

We Got Into An Invite-Only Affordable Housing Summit In Niceville. This Is What We Learned About The Local Housing Crisis:

local government, developers, and industry leaders convened for a housing summit in Okaloosa and Walton Counties. Hosted by OCHIP, WCHIP, and the Emerald Coast Association of Realtors, the summit focused on affordable housing challenges and solutions. Discussions highlighted the impact of housing costs on residents’ quality of life and the collaborative efforts needed to address these issues.

Mid Bay News

A drone view of the activity on Boggy Bayou before the annual fireworks festival put on every year by the cities of Niceville  and Valparaiso.