Homes Prices Are Down in Our Area – Will We See A Housing Price Crash?

Curious about the state of the real estate market in Niceville and Valparaiso? Despite national shifts, prices have remained stable, and homes are selling quicklyโfind out what it means for buyers and sellers in 2024!
3rd Planet to Hold 5th Annual Oktoberfest for Charity

The fifth annual Oktoberfest at 3rd Planet Brewing in Niceville will take place this weekend, featuring food, beer, and live music from the Oompah band Edelweiss. The event supports local charity efforts by the Knights of Columbus, while festival-goers can enjoy a variety of activities, including a keg toss and the brewery’s new beer hall.
Raid on Niceville Business Leads To Arrest for Gun, Drugs Possession

Two individuals were arrested at a Niceville bike shop on charges of firearm possession and drug-related offenses following the discovery of methamphetamine paraphernalia.
Budget Crisis In Valparaiso: City Risks Losing Professional Fire Department

Valparaisoโs fire services are on the line as budget woes force the city to consider drastic measuresโwill they find a solution before time runs out?
Donnie Lane – A Beacon For Patriotism

returning to the States, Donnie found solace and purpose in creating miniature lighthouses, a hobby that helped him cope with the trauma of war. His unique wooden lighthouses, now totaling around 15,000, have become cherished symbols of his resilience and dedication. As Donnie faces the end of his life due to Agent Orange exposure, his legacy of craftsmanship and family pride shines brightly, much like the lighthouses he so lovingly creates.
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, Josรฉ, experienced harassment under the administration of Principal Dr. Scheree Martin. Despite Josรฉ’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.
A Six Figure Pharmacist Salary Just Got More Affordable And Easier to Access for Okaloosa County

With a groundbreaking agreement between Northwest Florida State College (NWFSC) and Florida A&M University (FAMU), high school students in Okaloosa County can now pursue a Doctor of Pharmacy degree while staying local. The partnership allows students to complete two years at NWFSC and then transfer to FAMU’s Crestview Pharmacy Campus, with access to student housing, alleviating housing concerns. Dr. G. Devin Stephenson, NWFSC’s outgoing president, envisions enrolling 30-40 students per class, enhancing the region’s educational opportunities and community impact.
Documents: Fired Deputy Who Shot and Killed Hurlburt Field Airman Disciplined in 2021, turned in resignation days before shooting.

The Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office has terminated Deputy Eddie Duran following an internal affairs investigation into the fatal shooting of Senior Airman Roger Fortson on May 3. The investigation concluded that Duran’s use of deadly force was not objectively reasonable, violating agency policy. Sheriff Eric Aden emphasized the incident should never have occurred and reaffirmed the office’s commitment to fairness, professionalism, and transparency.
Bears Watch Runners Finish Eglin Gate to Gate

The annual Eglin Air Force Base Memorial Day race welcomed some unexpected spectators this year: a momma bear and her three cubs, who observed the event from a tree. Despite the bears’ presence, roughly 700 participants completed the 4.4-mile run, organized by Eglin’s Force Support Squadron, which honored fallen service members. The event, initiated 37 years ago by General Gordon Fornell, featured a challenging course and a strong sense of community and remembrance.
Obituary: Dr. David Goetsch, A Pillar of the Niceville Community

Dr. David Goetsch was a pillar of the Niceville and Valparaiso Community.