Niceville teen battles flesh-eating bacteria from local waters
In Brief: This is a developing story that Mid Bay News will continue to cover as information is released. What should have been a relaxing day turned disastrous for one Niceville family after 17-year-old Joziah Thompson was hospitalized for Vibrio vulnificus, a flesh-eating bacteria he contracted in the water at Lions Park, on Wednesday. Tirzah […]
Escaped Baker Act Patient Found Safely Floating in Turkey Creek
A Baker Act patient who escaped from HCA Florida Twin Cities Hospital was safely located after a coordinated search through Turkey Creek involving K9, drone, and marine units.
OPINION: Niceville pickleball courts for seniors only – here’s why:
Judy Boudreaux, a longtime Niceville resident and past City Council member, argues that the fenced-in Pickleball courts at the Niceville Senior Center must remain exclusively for seniors.
This Niceville teen earned a trip to the most prestigious medical event for future doctors in America!
Gianna Muscarella, a 17-year-old member of the Niceville Wrestling team, is dedicated to becoming a forensic nurse, a career path inspired by watching Law & Order: SVU that will allow her to aid some of the most vulnerable crime victims. Her vision involves melding medicine and law, which may require her to testify in court. Muscarella’s academic dedication has already led to an invite-only selection by Nobel Laureate Mario Capecchi to attend the Congress of Future Medical Leaders at the University of Massachusetts, Lowell, this June. This commitment has also secured her admission to St. Vincent College and made her a competitive candidate for universities like Notre Dame and the United States Air Force Academy.
What’s Up With That Abandoned Building on Niceville’s Government Ave?
As you head into Niceville/Valparaiso on SR-85, you’ll more than likely see an abandoned building that sits on the right-hand side of the road before you pass Tradewinds restaurant.
Future Leaders Recognized for Outstanding Historical Writing and Creativity
Two Okaloosa County middle school students earned top honors in a history writing contest celebrating America’s 250th anniversary, with their winning essays set to be featured during a July 4 museum exhibit.
End of an era: Brunson announces retirement at Niceville Chamber
After 30 years of, Tricia Brunson has announced her retirement as President and CEO of the Niceville Valparaiso Chamber of Commerce. Brunson will step down on November 28, 2026.
Costa Union Club and MJs Reopen to Public Acclaim
MJs Place, the coffee shop owned by MJ and David Costa, Jr., is officially back, serving Lucky Goat Coffee in a newly renovated building with a 1920s Art Deco vibe. The space, which is part of The New Costa Union Club, was packed during its ribbon-cutting ceremony. The building features an open floor plan with a massive bar, a secret lounge behind a bookcase, a conference room, and a state-of-the-art podcast recording studio. David Costa, Jr. expressed excitement about bringing people together in Niceville, calling it a place where you go and a place where you grow.
Perfect Score and Ice Cream: How One Student Won Big
An eighth-grade student at Ruckel Middle School earned statewide recognition after scoring perfectly in Florida’s Math Nation competition.
Okaloosa County Launches Sweeping Transit Overhaul After ‘Colossal Failure’ Warning
Okaloosa County leaders voted to phase out fixed-route transit service and replace it with a paratransit-focused model by August 2026 amid concerns over rising costs and low ridership.
