Valparaiso’s Fire Chief Is Out. Is This A Golden Opportunity?

Valparaiso just lost its fire chief—and with it, the City may be inching closer to a historic fire department merger that could reshape emergency services across the Twin Cities.
Prosecutors Drop Charges Against Crestview Church Volunteer Accused of Molestation

Prosecutors have dropped high-profile molestation charges against Robert Morris Watson III, citing insufficient evidence, flawed ID, and suggestibility in the alleged victim’s statements. What the report reveals could reshape how local abuse claims are scrutinized.
NEW: Cache of Docs Reveals How Weeks Got His Job at the Jail – and What He Said Before Resigned

A former Okaloosa County jail director claims the HR investigator probing him wanted a job at the company in question—now, new records reveal how he got hired over more experienced candidates.
Niceville Good Neighbor: Jerry Matthews

Niceville Good Neighbor: Jerry Matthews Christopher Saul June 3, 2025 6:20 pm Niceville In Brief: 🌽 Jerry Matthews, an 86-year-old Navy veteran, shares fresh farm produce from his family with neighbors in need across Niceville.🏘️ Nominated by neighbor Anna Pugh, Matthews is recognized for his kindness and community spirit as the May Good Neighbor of […]
Will Niceville Eliminate THIS Affordable Housing Option?

When a local family added a small home to care for both their aging parent and son with autism, they followed all the rules—yet still sparked a citywide debate about property values, affordable housing, and what it really means to “keep Niceville nice.”
Law Enforcement Works Together, Rescues Lost Boy on Eglin Range

Dozens of first responders searched land, air, and water—then came the moment they all hoped for: a missing 7-year-old boy was found alive deep in the creeks of Rocky Bayou.
Okaloosa Schools Announces Summer Free Meals Schedule for 2025

Okaloosa County School District has announced its free breakfasts and lunches for children who meet certain requirements.
Florida Announces RECORD Tourism – Why Did The Emerald Coast’s Numbers Slump?

Florida just hit a record-breaking tourism milestone—but the beaches of Okaloosa and Walton counties are feeling the crunch. Here’s what local leaders are doing to stay afloat.
UPDATE – Tragedy in Destin: Parents Drown, Son Saved by Heroic Beachgoer

Two people died in an apparent drowning on May 27 near SunDestin Resort in Destin, marking the first confirmed drowning fatalities of the 2025 summer season in Okaloosa County.
NHS Softball Seniors Arrive By Private Plane to Graduation on Eve of State Championship

Two Niceville seniors pulled off a high school doubleheader: a state semifinal win and graduation—thanks to quick thinking, a private plane, and perfect timing.