Nihill Taylor to Replace Martin at STEMM Academy

The Okaloosa County School Board has appointed Kimberly Nihill Taylor, current Assistant Principal at Niceville High School, as the new principal of STEMM Academy in Valparaiso. Taylor, a longtime educator with over three decades of experience in the Okaloosa County School District, succeeds Dr. Scheree Martin, who was reassigned following disciplinary issues. Taylor brings a wealth of experience and dedication to her new role, having previously served as a teacher, coach, and administrator in the district.

Niceville Welcomes This New Bistro to Town!

PB&J Bistro & Café in Niceville, founded by Chef Phillip Bauer and his wife Jess, promises a unique dining experience with locally sourced ingredients in a charming 1920s speakeasy setting.

Tattoos and RV Sales on Facebook – The State of Okaloosa’s Local Economy

The local economy in southern Okaloosa County, supported by a stable defense industry and fluctuating tourism, shows mixed signs of recovery. United Fidelity Bank’s Ed Burns highlights unique economic indicators such as the sluggish sales of RVs, boats, and golf clubs, empty sports bars, and a decline in tattoo business, pointing to cautious consumer spending and underlying financial hesitations. Despite these trends, the local market remains optimistic, with signs of future growth as businesses and properties change hands.

ALICE In Wonderland: The Hidden Struggle for Survival in Niceville

Luis Torres, a Niceville Walmart employee and father, embodies the struggles of the ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) population, facing challenges with childcare and housing. High childcare costs and restrictive housing options push many working-class families like his to the brink of financial instability. Local leaders, including City Manager David Deitch, are exploring solutions to alleviate these burdens, such as increasing affordable housing inventory and advocating for policy changes to support these families.

Niceville Alum Named Florida Gator Drum Major!

Carly Crist, a Niceville High School graduate and clarinetist, has been named a drum major for the University of Florida Gator Band, achieving this honor through determination and overcoming personal challenges.

NHS Alumnus Graduates From United States Merchant Marine Academy

Ravis S. Delrie, son of Jason and Carolyn Delrie of Niceville, recently graduated from the United States Merchant Marine Academy (USMMA) at Kings Point, New York. Delrie earned a Bachelor of Science degree, a commission in the U.S. armed forces, and qualified as a Merchant Marine officer. The USMMA is one of the five U.S. federal service academies renowned for its rigorous academic and physical qualifications and requires nominations from Congress members. Delrie received nominations from Senators Marco Rubio, Rick Scott, and Representative Matt Gaetz. He will serve as a Third Mate in the U.S. Merchant Marine and a U.S. Navy Strategic Sealift Officer. The Academy’s commencement featured White House National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan, and this year marked the 50th anniversary of women entering the USMMA.

Two FWB Vikings Stars Defect To Niceville For Football Season

Niceville Football Recruiting Page announced that Fort Walton Beach High School’s star players, Eddie Love, Jr. and Johnny Lewis, Jr., are transferring to Niceville for their final season. Love, committed to East Carolina University, had a standout season with over 1,300 rushing yards and 16 touchdowns, while Lewis, with scholarship offers from Keiser University and Southeastern University, has nearly 2,000 passing yards over two seasons. The story awaits comments from key school officials.

Niceville Local Rece Hinds Crushes Big League Debut!

Niceville native Rece Hinds made an impressive Major League debut with the Cincinnati Reds on July 8th, hitting a double and a home run in his three at-bats, contributing to the Reds’ 6-0 victory over the Rockies. Hinds, who received the call-up from the Louisville Bats, shared an emotional journey to the game and a memorable performance, highlighted by his long home run.

Niceville Local Will Compete In 2024 Warrior Games

Air Force Tech. Sgt. veteran Philip Anderson has found a renewed sense of purpose and strength through adaptive sports as he competes in the 2024 Warrior Games. After medically retiring in 2021 due to back injuries and PTSD, Anderson discovered adaptive sports through the Air Force Wounded Warrior Program, which played a crucial role in his recovery and reintegration. His journey to the Games is a testament to resilience, determination, and the transformative power of sports.

Mid Bay News

A drone view of the activity on Boggy Bayou before the annual fireworks festival put on every year by the cities of Niceville  and Valparaiso.