From Scout to Leader: One Project, One Park, One Powerful Impact

Andrew Dali earned Scoutingβs highest rank after leading the construction of permanent chess tables at Ferry Park, creating a new space for community connection.
Vibrant New Cabana Cantina Redefines Poolside Dining on Okaloosa Island

Cabana Cantina & Tequileria is now open at The Island Resort, serving coastal Mexican flavors and a tequila-forward bar to locals and visitors.
Fort Walton Beach Rallies in Powerful Community Convoy for Firefighterβs Family

Fort Walton Beach will host a Community Convoy on Jan. 17 to support firefighter David Leonard, his newborn daughter, and honor his late wife.
Fort Walton Beach Police Open Doors with Citizensβ Police Academy

The Fort Walton Beach Police Department is launching its next Citizensβ Police Academy on Feb. 5, offering residents a behind-the-scenes look at policing.
Fort Walton Beach Man, Ole Miss DB Arrested in Andalusia

An Ole Miss football player from Fort Walton Beach was arrested in Andalusia after police stopped his vehicle for speeding at 111 mph.
Fort Walton Beach voters to decide on charter amendments in March 2025

Fort Walton Beach City Council has approved six charter-related ordinances that will go before voters in a March 10, 2026, referendum, asking residents to decide on changes to city elections, governance rules, elected official compensation, administrative language, and budget limits.
Fort Walton Beach recommends elevated flyover option for “Around the Mound” project

With billions in traffic, military access, and downtown development on the line, Fort Walton Beach leaders say this may be their one shot to get the U.S. 98 reroute right.
Fatal Shooting Under Investigation in Mary Esther

Deputies found a woman dead inside a Kanuha Drive home after a late-night 9-1-1 call. Investigators are working to determine what happened.
Palmer Seeks Public Input on Holiday Isle Park

Commissioner Palmer invites Okaloosa residents to a Dec. 30 town hall to give input on a new 4-acre Holiday Isle waterfront park.
Hope in the Cold: How Local Leaders Protect the Unhoused

When winter temperatures drop below 40 degrees in Fort Walton Beach, a coordinated effort between One Hopeful Place and the Fort Walton Beach Police Department springs into action to protect people experiencing homelessness from dangerous conditions.