Local food pantries see rise in clients as federal shutdown deepens; SNAP, WIC funding decreased

As the federal shutdown stretches into its second month, families across Northwest Florida are losing vital food assistance.
Local food pantries, from Sharing & Caring in Niceville to Emerald Coast Food Rescue, are seeing record demand.
Live Blog: FHSAA releases playoff brackets for area high schools

Live Blog: FHSAA releases playoff brackets for area high schools Collin Bestor November 6, 2025 10:30 am Sports In Brief: Florida High School Athletic Association releases playoff brackets for Rural-7A classificationsΒ With many teams in our area already guaranteed a spot (Choctaw, Baker, Pensacola Catholic), some sit in limbo (Crestview, Tate, Milton and Niceville). Playoff […]
Destin Council calls for transparency after $83M land deal for Norriego Point

Destin leaders say Floridaβs $83 million beach buy came with too many closed doors β and too little local say. Hereβs what theyβre doing to bring the deal into the sunshine.
Defending National Champs: New-look Northwest Florida State women’s team embraces speed, grit and global talent

After last yearβs national title, the Northwest Florida State College womenβs basketball team enters a new season with a younger, faster roster β and the same championship expectations.
Fort Walton Beach City Council approves rec center expansion, ballot amendment wording and representation changes

Busy night for Fort Walton Beachβs City Council ποΈ β leaders approved a $7.5 million recreation complex expansion, agreed to study a new form of city government, and advanced charter amendments toward the 2026 ballot. Hereβs what it all means for residents π
Crestview City Council extends city clerk’s performance plan after split vote

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After months of tension over leadership and communication at City Hall, the Crestview City Council narrowly voted to keep City Clerk Maryanne Girard under review instead of terminating her contract.
Okaloosa School District names Donna Kelley as Pineview School principal

The Okaloosa County School District has appointed Donna Kelley, longtime principal of Northwood Elementary, to lead Pineview School.
Okaloosa School Board approves $5.1 Million turf project for four high schools

No more ruts, mud, or game delays β Okaloosa County is going all-in on turf. The School Board just approved a $5.1 million project to replace grass fields at four high schools. Hereβs why district leaders say the change will make fields safer and more sustainable.
Northwest Florida State men’s basketball rebuilds ahead a season full of promise

Coach Steve DeMeo and the Raiders are starting fresh β and aiming higher. With a new roster, new dorms, and a strong community push, Northwest Florida State College menβs basketball looks to bounce back after a 20β9 season.
Okaloosa County audit reveals $850K in transit overpayment, sparks reform

A new audit shows Okaloosa County overpaid its bus contractor by more than $850,000 over six years. What went wrong, and how is the county fixing it? Read the full report and see what this means for local taxpayers.