Lewis School Aide Charged with Abusing Student.
An Okaloosa County paraprofessional, Heather Bildstein, was arrested for allegedly striking a 5-year-old autistic student in the face at Lewis School in Valparaiso. While Bildstein denied the allegation, witnesses confirmed the incident, leading to a charge of Child Abuse Without Great Harm. The school district placed her on administrative leave.
Val-p Library could take over old City Council chambers
Valparaiso commissioners approved moving forward with a plan to expand the city’s public library into the former City Council chambers. Library Director Hope Willis said the additional space would address overcrowding, accessibility concerns and growing demand for library programs and services.
Museum announces 9/11 “History Sandwiched-In” program.
The Heritage Museum claims its “History Sandwiched-In” event, commemorating September 11th, is not to be missed.
DEVELOPING: Child airlifted to Pensacola after terrifying pit bull mauling
A child was airlifted after an unprovoked dog attack in Valparaiso. Police say a neighbor restrained the dog until officers arrived.
Valparaiso weighs possible department merger with Niceville Fire Chief
In Brief: The City of Valparaiso could see changes to its fire department, currently overseen by the Niceville Fire Department, to cut staffing costs and organize the department(s). Valparaiso City Commissioners discussed their ideas with Niceville Fire Chief Alex Kukulus at a workshop on June 11. Kukulus serves, along with the command team at Niceville […]
New Fire Response Model Aims to Save Minutes in Emergencies
Niceville-area fire departments will begin sending the closest available unit to emergencies May 1, aiming to cut response times and improve care.
Former fire chief sues Valparaiso. Here are the allegations:
Former fire chief sues Valparaiso. Here are the allegations: Christopher Saul April 20, 2026 2:32 pm Valparaiso Former Valparaiso Fire Lieutenant and Interim Fire Chief David Lanier, who was fired after an investigation into alleged retaliation and accusations that he used a racial slur at Black firefighters, has filed a lawsuit against the City of […]
This is why this inspired man created the Emerald Coast
When he arrived, he was one of the most controversial figures in Northwest Florida. By the time he died, he was universally loved.
Yellow water shows up in Valparaiso: This is what happened.
We know there’s a joke in here, but we’re going to skip past it. This is what’s happening with Valparaiso’s water discoloration.
Morgan victorious in three-way race for Valparaiso Mayor
Joe Morgan is Valparaiso’s next mayor. He returns to the dais after a ten year hiatus.
