Niceville Man Arrested For Sending Classified Eglin Documents Illegally

Paul J. Freeman, a 68-year-old resident of Niceville, has been indicted on charges of unauthorized possession and transmission of classified national defense information. The indictment alleges that Freeman shared sensitive information about U.S. Air Force aircraft and weapons with unauthorized individuals on multiple occasions between November 2020 and March 2021. If convicted, Freeman faces up to ten years in prison for each of the nine counts.
Okaloosa School Board Member Resigns to Lead Destin High School

Destin High School welcomes a familiar face as its new principal, Dr. Diane Kelley, a lifelong educator and current school board member. Dr. Kelley, who will officially begin
Under Cloud of Controversy, STEMM Principal to Lead Education Efforts at Okaloosa DJJ Facility

In a move that sparked public outcry and emotional testimonies, the Okaloosa County School Board approved the transfer of Dr. Scheree Martin from Okaloosa STEMM Academy to a leadership position at the Department of Juvenile Justice facility south of Crestview. Despite unanimous support from the board, except for the absent Tim Bryant, parents vociferously opposed the transfer, citing Martin’s controversial past with children with autism at STEMM Academy. Superintendent Marcus Chambers defended the decision, emphasizing the district’s commitment to addressing misconduct while navigating complex personnel decisions.
Okaloosa Superintendent Appointed To FHSAA Board of Directors

Governor Ron DeSantis has appointed Marcus Chambers, the Superintendent of Schools for Okaloosa County, to the Florida High School Athletic Association (FHSAA) Board of Directors. Chambers, with over 26 years in education, has been recognized for his contributions at various levels, including as a teacher, principal, and administrator. This appointment, which awaits confirmation by the Florida Senate, highlights Chambers’ commitment to advancing high school athletics in Florida.
Valparaiso Couple Wins $100,000 Wedding By Doing This!

Brandon Lang and Lesley Lowrey, natives of Destin and Niceville, recently won a $100,000 wedding weekend in a contest sponsored by three northwest Florida businesses. Their victory, achieved through widespread community voting, means the couple will have their dream wedding in Pensacola on November 17th, free of financial stress and planning worries. The couple, who met at 16 while working at a movie theater, plan to live in Valparaiso after their nuptials.
Try these 10 amazing Summer activities in Niceville with kids in 2024!

Looking for things to do this summer in Niceville for kids? Here are the top ten places you can check out for an afternoon of fun for free or cheap. Niceville has plenty to offer children; you donβt need to cross the bridge over to Destin to make a fun day happen. Check out the top ten things to do with your kids in Niceville during the summer!
Kedroski Named Interim President at Northwest Florida State College

Northwest Florida State College has appointed Dr. Cristie Kedroski as Interim President, effective July 6, 2024. With over 20 years of experience in higher education and community outreach, Dr. Kedroski has been pivotal in driving the Collegeβs enrollment growth and academic innovation. The Board of Trustees unanimously selected Dr. Kedroski, confident in her ability to lead the College during this transitional period.
Parents: ‘Okaloosa STEMM Principal Broke The Law.’ Now, They Say They Want Justice for Their Son With Autism.

Okaloosa STEMM Academy, lauded as one of Florida’s top middle schools, faces scrutiny from a family who claims their son, JosΓ©, experienced harassment under the administration of Principal Dr. Scheree Martin. Despite JosΓ©’s high academic performance, his parents allege Martin’s disciplinary actions targeted their son due to his autism and ADD, leading them to withdraw him from the school. Their ongoing battle highlights concerns about the school’s handling of students with special needs and has prompted investigations by both the Okaloosa County School District and the Florida Department of Education.
Accused Mike Ledford Killer Back in Court – With New Attorney

Accused killer of local restauranteur Mike Ledford, Dylan Deschaine, made another appearance in court Wednesday.
Niceville Council Recap: $192,000 To A Developer For A Sewer Line Above Wetland. Homeless Encampment Under Rocky Bayou Bridge Discussed.

City Gives developer for $192,000 For A Sewer Line Above a Wetland, Police Work With Deputies on a Homeless Encampment and Council Decides To Reject An AirBnB Request – For Now.