Ponder Highlights Maritime, Innovation Initiatives At Walton Chamber Lunch
Northwest Florida State College President Mel Ponder recently unveiled a bold strategic plan at the Walton Area Chamber’s Power of Business Lunch. With new investments in maritime training, hospitality, public safety, and engineering pathways, the college is aggressively aligning its curriculum with regional economic demands to transform students’ future success.
Eglin announces extraordinary $50k gift to Niceville Chamber
Eglin Federal Credit Union has pledged a $50,000 donation to the Niceville-Valparaiso Chamber of Commerce. This significant contribution is earmarked for capital improvements and exterior repairs to the Chamber’s historic facility, celebrating a partnership that has spanned over 53 years of supporting local economic growth and the business community.
Chambers’ presentation reveals bold bets for Okaloosa Schools
Okaloosa County School District Superintendent Marcus Chambers has outlined a strategic vision for the district’s future amid the rising influence of school vouchers and increased competition from private, home, and virtual schooling. By emphasizing a “reimagining” of elementary education, workforce-aligned career training, and targeted facilities upgrades, the district aims to maintain its high performance ratings and adapt to shifting population growth across the county.
Emerald Coast Sports Show Overtime: Interview with Walton Head Coach Jay Lindsey
The Walton Braves have opened their season in dominant fashion, steamrolling their first two opponents with a clear identity: depth, defense, and discipline. Head Coach Jay Lindsey credits the team’s buy-in since December, though he remains focused on the challenges ahead, specifically upcoming district competition and special teams refinement.
Emerald Coast High School football: Our 🔥 takes for Week 3’s games (are we wrong?)
Local high school football teams are back on the field, and the stakes are higher than ever this week. From the Mosley Dolphins facing off against the Niceville Eagles to a massive showdown between Florida High and South Walton, we break down the must-watch matchups shaping the season. Get the full analysis on MidBay News.
Gaetz Tells Crestview Chamber: Florida Must Be Not Just Free, But Affordable
State Sen. Don Gaetz told Crestview Chamber members Florida must be not only “the free state” but also affordable. He highlighted millions in local road funding, a robotics program turning students into high‑wage workers, and urged voters who favor cutting property taxes to also demand specific spending cuts from local governments.
Bill Lundy’s tale: The fake rebel who stole government money.
Bill Lundy became Okaloosa County’s most celebrated “living link” to the Civil War, even earning a Congressional medal. Yet, his fame was built on a foundation of falsehoods. Census records eventually revealed Lundy was born in 1860, proving he was merely a child, not a soldier, during the conflict.
Okaloosa deputies arrest Niceville man, allege AI-generated CSAM
The Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office has arrested Niceville resident Marcus Jordan, charging him with three counts of possession of child sexual abuse material. According to investigators, the material was AI-generated. Jordan is currently released on a $125,000 bond, and the investigation remains ongoing while he awaits trial.
The woesome wait for Wawa ends in Niceville
More than 400 people welcomed the long-anticipated Wawa to Niceville on Thursday morning. The new location on John Sims Parkway, which features gas and Wawa’s signature hoagies, drew enthusiastic crowds, including local fans donning Philadelphia Eagles jerseys and former Wawa employees eager for a taste of home.
Bulletin Board Material: Week 2
Bulletin Board Material ia up for Week 2 of the 2026 Emerald Coast football season. We are breaking down high-stakes matchups like Fort Walton Beach versus South Walton and Auburn facing off against Choctaw. Join us as we evaluate last week’s standout players and predict outcomes for this Friday’s gridiron action.
