“I am innocent and will vigorously seek to clear my name” Former County Leader Shares His Side of The Story After Felony Arrest.

Former Walton County officials were arrested on felony charges. One claims the case is retaliation for reporting alleged misconduct.
‘Trump House’ on 30a Collects Legal Fees From Walton County After 4-year Fight

A years-long legal fight between Walton County and homeowner Marvin Peavey over political banners has ended, with the county agreeing to pay his legal fees, and Peavey shifting his focus to public beach access advocacy.
FPL To Ask For Largest Rate Increase Ever

Florida Power & Light plans to request new electricity rates for 2026-2029, citing the need for continued investment in infrastructure and clean energy while maintaining reliability. The proposed adjustments would increase residential bills by an average of 2.5% annually but remain below the national average.
Here’s How Walton and Okaloosa Ranked for Child Well Being:

How do Walton and Okaloosa counties compare in child well-being? The latest Florida Policy Institute rankings reveal strengths—and surprising challenges.
The Secret One School District Found to Avoid Dropping Test Scores – And What Okaloosa Schools Can Learn From It.

Only Walton County has managed to avoid a downward trend in test scores over the last 20 years in Florida. How’d they do it?
Niceville Day Trips: Lake Jackson and Florida’s Highest Point

We took the short drive to Lake Jackson and got to see Florida’s highest point!
Emerald Coast Schools Cancel Classes Ahead of Winter Weather

Okaloosa and Walton counties close schools for two days due to expected snow, sleet, and freezing rain, prioritizing student and staff safety.
Some of the World’s Greatest Musical Artists Are Giving A Free Concert in Niceville January 17, 2025

World-class musicians, including Alon Goldstein and acclaimed acts like Amit Peled’s Cello Gang, Eleni Katz, Neo-Art Piano Duo, and Medhelan Duo, will perform a series of free concerts across Florida’s Emerald Coast next week. Organized by the Emerald Coast Music Alliance, the program aims to bring classical music to underserved communities, with two public performances scheduled for January 16 at the Fort Walton Beach Civic Auditorium and January 17 at Crosspoint Church in Niceville, both at 6 p.m.
Meet Emery Hagan, The 2025 Taylor Haugen Trophy Winner!

Senior Emery Hagan of Paxton School has been named the 2024 recipient of the Taylor Haugen Trophy, an award honoring student-athletes who embody leadership, compassion, and perseverance. As the first-ever winner from her school, Hagan, a golfer and cheerleader, attributes her accomplishments to values instilled by her late mother and hopes her story inspires others in small schools to pursue similar opportunities.
Emerald Coast Public Relations Foundation Offers $1,000 Scholarships

The Emerald Coast Public Relations Foundation is awarding $1,000 scholarships to high school seniors in Okaloosa, Walton, and Santa Rosa counties pursuing degrees in public relations, communications, marketing, or journalism, with applications due March 17, 2025.