Lionfish Tournament Returns to Destin-Fort Walton Beach This May
The Emerald Coast Open returns to Destin-Fort Walton Beach from May 16–18, 2025, bringing divers, chefs, and the community together to remove invasive lionfish from local waters.
Five Okaloosa JROTC Cadets Receive Scholarships from Air and Space Forces Association
Five JROTC cadets from Okaloosa County high schools were awarded scholarships by the Air and Space Forces Association Eglin Chapter at a ceremony held April 15 at the Air Force Armament Museum.
Northwest Florida Ballet Académie Opens Auditions for 2025-2026 School Year
Northwest Florida Ballet is holding auditions for its tuition-free Académie program for incoming 3rd and 4th grade students, with registration open through April 24 for tryouts on April 26–27 in Fort Walton Beach.
Department of Health in Okaloosa Issues Water Quality Health Advisory
The Department of Health in Okaloosa County has issued a Water Quality Health Advisory for Liza Jackson Park, Garniers Beach Park and Lincoln Park.
Congratulations! You* Just Bought The Red Lobster In Fort Walton Beach
What’s next for the former Red Lobster in Fort Walton Beach? You* just bought it—here’s what they might do with the prime waterfront property.
County Buys Waterfront Property for Tourism Office
Okaloosa County has approved a $4.1 million purchase of the former PNC Bank building for a tourism headquarters, including a boat ramp and waterfront property, with planned security and infrastructure upgrades to address local concerns.
SS United States Arrives in Mobile, Prepares for Artificial Reef Deployment
The SS United States has arrived in Mobile, Alabama, after a 1,800-mile tow from Philadelphia, marking the start of preparations for its transformation into the world’s largest artificial reef off Florida’s Gulf Coast, alongside a planned museum and visitor center.
FPL To Ask For Largest Rate Increase Ever
Florida Power & Light plans to request new electricity rates for 2026-2029, citing the need for continued investment in infrastructure and clean energy while maintaining reliability. The proposed adjustments would increase residential bills by an average of 2.5% annually but remain below the national average.
Eglin Waterways Now Considered Restricted
Eglin Air Force Base has restricted access to six waterways around its main base and range area due to emerging security threats, allowing only ID card holders and approved visitors.
Emerald Coast Quilt Show Returns to Fort Walton Beach in March
The Flying Needles Quilt Guild of Niceville is hosting the Emerald Coast Quilt Show on March 7-8, 2025, at the Northwest Florida Fairgrounds, featuring quilt displays, vendors, a Quilts of Valor presentation to support veterans, and community service projects.
