Local high school football playoff races heat up as the final stretch of the 2025 season begins
The playoff picture is heating up! From Choctaw’s dominant run to Milton’s shocking comeback season, every district in the Mid Bay News coverage area has something on the line heading into Week 8.
Okaloosa County unemployment rises to 4.2%, but leaders see growth ahead with new industry and training
Okaloosa’s unemployment rate just hit its highest point since the pandemic recovery. But local leaders say the story isn’t all bad news — with new factories, technical training programs, and military talent pipelines fueling long-term growth. Here’s how the numbers break down, and what’s next for the local economy 👉
Government shutdown looms, what will be impacted in Northwest Florida.
At 12:01 a.m. Wednesday, the U.S. government runs out of money. From Eglin to TSA checkpoints, thousands of Northwest Florida workers could see furloughs, delayed pay, or closed gates. Here’s what you need to know about how the shutdown will hit our community.
Mid Bay News presents mid-season awards for the 2025 football season
From breakout rookies to dominant defenses, Week 6 of Northwest Florida high school football is packed with stories worth celebrating.
Week 6 Recap: Niceville flexes muscle, SoWal beats Walton
Week 6 football action marked the beginning of district play for many local teams.
Fort Walton Beach Golf Course unveils new TrackMan system
From Ryder Cup courses to kids’ games, Fort Walton Beach’s golf range just got a high-tech makeover.
Fort Walton Beach delays youth baseball, softball merger with Shalimar Little League
A plan to merge Fort Walton Beach’s youth baseball league into Shalimar’s Little League struck out — at least for now.
Fort Walton Beach school-zone cameras slash speeding by 95% in first year
Fort Walton Beach’s school-zone speed cameras cut speeding by 95% in their first year, collecting $183,675 in fines. Most violators received only one ticket, and city leaders say the revenue is being reinvested into safety improvements.
Walton County passes $328M budget in narrow 3-2 vote
Walton County leaders cut the millage rate slightly, but a divided commission clashed over debt, reserves, and long-term planning.
Hundreds gather in Fort Walton Beach to honor Charlie Kirk
Hundreds gathered in Fort Walton Beach for a vigil honoring Charlie Kirk, joining nationwide memorials following his killing in Utah.
