White-Wilson Medical Center files for Chapter 11 bankruptcy, plans to continue operations

White-Wilson Medical Center — one of Northwest Florida’s oldest healthcare providers — has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy, but leaders say the move is about long-term stability, not closure.
Okaloosa County unemployment rises to 4.2%, but leaders see growth ahead with new industry and training

Okaloosa’s unemployment rate just hit its highest point since the pandemic recovery. But local leaders say the story isn’t all bad news — with new factories, technical training programs, and military talent pipelines fueling long-term growth. Here’s how the numbers break down, and what’s next for the local economy 👉
Santa Rosa Beach man arrested after fatal shooting during eviction dispute

What began as an eviction argument in Santa Rosa Beach Wednesday morning ended in gunfire, leaving a woman dead and another injured. Deputies were already on the scene when shots rang out. Here’s what investigators say happened 👉
Government shutdown looms, what will be impacted in Northwest Florida.

At 12:01 a.m. Wednesday, the U.S. government runs out of money. From Eglin to TSA checkpoints, thousands of Northwest Florida workers could see furloughs, delayed pay, or closed gates. Here’s what you need to know about how the shutdown will hit our community.
Okaloosa County Commission on the Status of Women Opens $500 Grant Applications.

The Okaloosa County Commission on the Status of Women is now accepting applications for a $500 grant to support organizations that benefit women, with a deadline of October 15th. Past recipients include Crestview Area Shelter, Beyond Expectations, and Opportunity Place.
Mid Bay News interviews Rep. Jimmy Patronis, focusing on big tech and local issues

Congressman Jimmy Patronis sits down with Mid Bay News to discuss military readiness, reigning in big tech and other issues effecting Northwest Florida
Inside the Push to Change 30A’s County’s Beach Rules

In a show of civility amid fiery social media clashes, Walton County residents and vendors collaboratively tackled beach ordinance updates, from bonfire fuels to vendor boundaries, in workshops that could reshape Emerald Coast shores.
Okaloosa County approves $687M budget with flat millage, rising tax bills

Flat millage rate, bigger tax bills, and a AAA bond rating — here’s what’s inside Okaloosa County’s $687 million budget.
Okaloosa County promotes Scott Bitterman to be Public Works Director

Interm no longer. The Okaloosa County Commission approved Scott Bitterman to become the county’s permanent public works director.
Okaloosa Commission begins deliberation on 2026 legislative priorities

Okaloosa County is asking the state for nearly $200 million to widen State Road 85 while also pushing policy stances on gun rights, mental health diversion, and homestead exemptions.
Do you think these should be the county’s top priorities?