Fort Walton Beach Police Respond to Reported Shots at White Wilson Medical Center

Fort Walton Beach police responded to White Wilson Medical Center after an 87-year-old man suffered a self-inflicted gunshot. He was transported to the hospital, and authorities say there is no ongoing threat.
Janisia Magallanes Stopped Bullying at Her School, Now She Protects Hundreds

Meet Deputy Janisia Magallanes, a Walton County Sheriff’s Office school resource officer (SRO) at Walton County High School. From standing up to bullying as a high school student to patrolling hallways and mentoring students today, she’s dedicated to student safety, school security, and community policing in DeFuniak Springs, Florida.
Nighttime Roadwork Alert! East Redstone Avenue Closures Start Oct. 22 in Crestview

Crestview drivers should plan for intermittent nighttime closures along East Redstone Avenue from October 22 through November 5 as city crews complete drainage improvements tied to the intersection realignment project near State Road 85.
Fort Walton Beach Announces Opening of New Museum Store at Indian Temple Mound Museum

The Indian Temple Mound Museum in Fort Walton Beach will open a new museum store on November 1 as part of its ongoing expansion and renovation, offering visitors unique items and artwork while increasing exhibit space.
Okaloosa County approves sidewalks, park upgrades and 2026 legislative priorities

Okaloosa County leaders advanced major community projects and set their 2026 legislative agenda during a packed Oct. 7 meeting covering sidewalks, parks, tourism, and safety initiatives.
Florida Chamber President: Emerald Coast Must ‘Play the Long Game’ to Secure Economic Future

Florida Chamber President Mark Wilson told Emerald Coast business leaders that Florida’s growth depends on long-term planning, investment in early education, and local collaboration. Speaking alongside former Niceville City Councilman Sal Nodjomian, Wilson highlighted challenges such as housing affordability and retaining young workers while projecting that Florida could become the world’s 10th largest economy by 2030.
Fort Walton Beach Woman Arrested on Prostitution Charge Following Undercover Investigation

Okaloosa County deputies arrested Suping Wu, 30, of New York, on a prostitution charge at a Fort Walton Beach spa following an undercover investigation prompted by tips from Emerald Coast Crime Stoppers.
Destin renews PAWS contract; Mary Esther hesitates amid stability concerns

Destin renewed its annual animal control contract with PAWS for $92,761, while Mary Esther delayed its decision amid doubts about the nonprofit’s financial stability and contract terms.
Rotary Club of Destin Expands Public Rescue Tube Program Across Okaloosa County Beaches

“These tubes are already making a difference at Destin beach accesses,” said Rotary project co-chairs Dion Moniz and Wayne Bernheisel. “Now, we are excited to expand this proven program across more parts of Okaloosa County, making our beaches even safer for residents and visitors.”
Eglin Federal Credit Union Rows for Hope: $50K Raised to Fight Suicide

Eglin Federal Credit Union has donated more than $50,000 over three years to support Bring Hope Now’s suicide prevention programs, raising funds through employee-led initiatives and sponsorship of the annual Dragon Boat Race and Festival in Fort Walton Beach.