Walton County school bus driver, DoD contractor arrested in sexual abuse case involving teenager

Walton County school bus driver, DoD contractor arrested in sexual abuse case involving teenager Staff Reports October 15, 2025 3:36 pm Uncategorized In Brief: 🚔 Arrested: Walton County deputies took a local bus driver into custody after a college student came forward. 🏫 School Action: The district suspended him immediately and began termination proceedings. ⚖️ […]
Generations United Church Opens Niceville’s First Cold Night Shelter to Protect Families and Seniors During Winter Weather

Generations United Church in Niceville is opening the city’s first Cold Night Emergency Shelter to protect families and elderly residents during freezing weather. The shelter, located at 108 Highway 85 N, will open on nights below 41°F and provide meals, beds, and essential support to those in need.
Sen. Don Gaetz weighs in on $83M state purchase of Norriego Point

Florida plans to spend $83 million to purchase four acres of waterfront land at Norriego Point in Destin for public park and marina use, a move praised by Okaloosa County officials but questioned by Sen. Don Gaetz over the high price compared with the county’s $10.5 million appraisal.
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.
Fort Walton Beach accepts $152k ICE grant under 287(g) program

Fort Walton Beach will take $152,500 in federal ICE funds to support its 287(g) immigration partnership — but not everyone agrees it’s a good idea. Officials say it won’t change local policing, while residents voiced strong opinions on both sides.
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.
Playoff Push: Baker dominates, Choctaw cruises, Niceville hangs on

The playoff race is heating up in Northwest Florida! Baker’s cruising, Choctaw’s chasing another title, and Niceville’s fighting to stay alive.
See where your team stands heading into the final three weeks of the regular season.