The Ten Most Important Northwest Florida News Stories of 2024

These are the top 10 stories from Mid Bay News of 2024, as determined by your clicks!
Congressional Candidate Jimmy Patronis Talks F-35 Program, Affordable Housing and Daycare in Niceville

Jimmy Patronis, running for Florida’s 1st Congressional District seat, addressed the F-35 program, housing issues, and campaign priorities during a Niceville event.
These Niceville High Schoolers Are The Only Non-Graduate Students To Present At Research Conference In Japan

Niceville High School students showcased their marine research on an international stage in Japan, earning global recognition and inspiring schools worldwide.
Dylan Deschaine’s Attorney Wants His Niceville Murder Case Dismissed. Here’s The Powerful Reason Why:

Newly obtained security footage from Paradise Liquors and Bealls provides further insight into the events leading up to the death of local restauranteur Mike Ledford. The videos depict a confrontation between Ledford and Dylan Deschaine, his alleged killer, and subsequent altercations in the parking lot. Deschaine’s defense attorney has filed a motion to dismiss the case under Florida’s stand-your-ground law. A hearing on the motion is scheduled for December 19.
Nathan Nelson Drops of Out of Race to Replace Matt Gaetz in Congress

Nathan Nelson, an Air Force veteran and advocate for veterans, announced the end of his congressional campaign, pledging support for Jimmy Patronis and highlighting his dedication to Northwest Florida’s military mission.
Someone Threatened to Blow Up A Bomb At Matt Gaetz’s Home. Here’s What We Know:

Someone threatened to explode a bomb at a home connected with Former Congressman Matt Gaetz.
Family Finds Cluster Bomb: “I Couldn’t Get Out the Door Fast Enough”

In Niceville, Florida, a family discovered a live Vietnam-era cluster bomblet brought home in a toolbox of scrap metal. A Google search misidentified it as inert, but local authorities and Eglin Air Force Base’s Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) team safely removed the dangerous device. The incident highlights the risks of unexploded ordnance near the Eglin test range and the limitations of relying on Google for safety judgments.
This Organization Just Donated Almost $2 Million to Local Nonprofits:

This local organization will give $1.9 Million to non profits around the Okaloosa County area.
Matt Gaetz Resigned… Now What? How We Elect A New Representative:

Matt Gaetz is no longer the representative for Northwest Florida. But there’s almost half a year until we will have someone representing the Emerald Coast in Congress again. Here’s how the process will work and who wants to be your next congressperson.
Mel Ponder Voted In As Northwest Florida State College’s New President

Mel Ponder elected as the next president of Northwest Florida State College! He will begin the job in the new year.