What’s Up With That Abandoned Building on Niceville’s Government Ave?
As you head into Niceville/Valparaiso on SR-85, you’ll more than likely see an abandoned building that sits on the right-hand side of the road before you pass Tradewinds restaurant.
Walton Braves Football: Could they be 2026s dark horse?
Walton Braves head coach Jay Lindsay joins Final Approach to Game Day to break down how his team is turning a 4–7 season into a springboard for 2026. He explains why returning nearly the entire offense should lead to more points, how a disciplined defense and a brutal schedule against bigger schools will shape the Braves, and why he measures success not just in district titles and playoff runs, but in the kind of men his players become long after Friday nights.
End of an era: Brunson announces retirement at Niceville Chamber
After 30 years of, Tricia Brunson has announced her retirement as President and CEO of the Niceville Valparaiso Chamber of Commerce. Brunson will step down on November 28, 2026.
The death of the young colonel: Angus McLean
Angus McLean had a promising life ahead of him when the Civil War broke out in 1861. But, fate had a different course for the young lawyer turned colonel.
Costa Union Club and MJs Reopen to Public Acclaim
MJs Place, the coffee shop owned by MJ and David Costa, Jr., is officially back, serving Lucky Goat Coffee in a newly renovated building with a 1920s Art Deco vibe. The space, which is part of The New Costa Union Club, was packed during its ribbon-cutting ceremony. The building features an open floor plan with a massive bar, a secret lounge behind a bookcase, a conference room, and a state-of-the-art podcast recording studio. David Costa, Jr. expressed excitement about bringing people together in Niceville, calling it a place where you go and a place where you grow.
JD Peacock believes he’s the right guy for Okaloosa School Board. Here’s Why:
Former Okaloosa County Clerk of Court and longtime sheriff’s office leader JD Peacock explains why he’s running for Okaloosa County School Board District 1, outlining his priorities of student safety, stronger fiscal oversight, and better support for teachers. In this interview, he addresses teacher pay gaps with Walton County, the closure of Longwood and Mary Esther Elementary, school choice and competition, and how the district should plan for growth in Crestview.
Governor approves more pay for high school coaches – with caveats
High school sports coaches in Florida will now have the chance to make more money – contributed by booster clubs and alumni organizations. They will also be permitted to use their personal funds to support the student athletes they coach.
Jessica Laird believes she’s the better option in the tricky Walton Tax Collector Election this summer. Here’s Why:
Tax collector candidate Jessica Carter Laird is making her case as a seasoned public servant for Walton County, emphasizing her 19+ years of experience, deep local roots, and commitment to innovation and public safety in the office. Her plans include addressing geographical challenges by pursuing remote self-service kiosks and bringing TSA PreCheck enrollment services to the county. Laird also highlights her focus on public policy, such as shifting immigration credential vetting back to the state level to reduce burdens on local offices, and shared a striking example of how her office’s diligence led to the identification of a human trafficking operation.
EXCLUSIVE: Candidate Buckman demands complete transparency from Okaloosa Superintendent
Okaloosa County School Board candidate Jerry Buckman outlined a platform focused on strict classroom discipline, independent oversight of Superintendent Marcus Chambers, and a plan to raise teacher pay without raising taxes. Buckman, who describes himself as a grassroots conservative, calls the current situation one of “chronically chaotic classrooms” and vows to enforce the student code of conduct and dress code to restore order. He also criticizes the district for lacking a meaningful 20- to 50-year facilities recapitalization plan for aging schools, and proposes redirecting central office funds to classroom teachers and bus drivers. Furthermore, Buckman champions an “America First” education agenda, emphasizing civics, factual U.S. history, and service, including bringing veterans into classrooms to share their experiences. He also pledges to donate his school board salary to teachers in need if elected.
After wild week in the media – West says she’s staying
Cynthia West told a conservative influencer on a podcast that she is pulling out of her race for School Board in Okaloosa County, citing the negative impact on her and her family from backlash over her allegations against Congressman Thomas Massie. West had alleged Massie emotionally abused her and offered her $5,000 in ‘hush money’ to walk away from a wrongful termination complaint. Massie denied the allegations. When reached for comment, West stated, “I have not made a final decision honestly, I’m just trying to wrap my head around what happened.”
