GALLERY: Christmas 2025 on the Emerald Coast (Send in your photos NOW!)

Merry Christmas to all from Mid Bay News! Here are the photo highlights of the season from around Northwest Florida and the Emerald Coast!
Patronis Demands Answers on Special Operations Relocation

Florida Congressman Jimmy Patronis and Senators Rick Scott and Ashley Moody are pressing Pentagon leaders for answers after the Air Force finalized its plan to move the 492nd Special Operations Wing from Northwest Florida to Arizona. In a sharply worded letter, the lawmakers warn the relocation could slow U.S. response times to growing threats in Venezuela and the Caribbean and question why the Air Force relied on Biden-era climate considerations instead of current national security priorities.
Okaloosa Schools Release Bus Schedules for 2025-6 School Year

Okaloosa County School District has released their bus schedules for the upcoming school year.
Mary Esther eyes public safety contracts amid budget deficit, capital projects

With a deficit budget on the table and millions in capital projects ahead, Mary Estherβs leaders are asking a bold question: Are taxpayers getting what they pay for in public safety?
Greek Festival returns to Mary Esther this October

Mary Estherβs Greek Festival returns October 17β19 with food, dancing, live music, kidsβ activities, and newly completed church icons on display.
Mary Esther still without animal control after PAWS cancels contract, city seeks alternatives

Mary Esther is still without animal control services after PAWS canceled its contract, leaving city leaders scrambling for solutions and demanding fairness in future agreements.
Mary Esther officials outline fixes after citywide water outage exposes infrastructure flaws

A crash, a buried valve, and a city left without waterβMary Estherβs leaders explain how it happened, what itβll cost, and whatβs next.
Mary Esther officials weigh options after sudden cancellation of animal control contract

Mary Esther officials weigh options after sudden cancellation of animal control contract Collin Bestor June 23, 2025 6:21 pm Mary Esther In Brief: πΎ PAWS abruptly ends contract with Mary Esther, leaving the city without animal control services. π New contract proposed higher rates, prompting council concerns over fairness and financial burden. ποΈ Officials weigh […]
Mary Esther unveils park master plan

Mary Esther unveils park master plan Collin Bestor June 23, 2025 12:29 pm Mary Esther In Brief: πΎ Top community priorities include dog parks, pickleball courts, and a central space for events and farmers markets. π³ Five major parks will be redesigned for accessibility, multi-use features, and public gathering spaces. π° $28 million phased plan […]