Okaloosa County to remove all Flock cameras after FDOT memo
Okaloosa County will remove Flock license plate recognition cameras from state and county roads after FDOT revoked local law enforcement permits for LPR technology. The order cites concerns over misuse, data privacy and surveillance. Sheriff Eric Aden said the removal is disappointing from a public safety standpoint.
Profile | Meet the woman behind the panhandle’s most successful foodie blog
Joanna Davis started The 850 Foodie in 2020 after growing frustrated with negativity toward local restaurants online. What began as a place to share photos of food has grown into a community of more than 66,000 followers, where Davis highlights local businesses, celebrates food and encourages aspiring influencers to have fun.
Nationwide nonprofit gifts home to Crestview veteran
Former Army Staff Sergeant Christopher Williams and his family received a mortgage-free home in Crestview from Building Homes for Heroes. Williams, who served three deployments in Afghanistan and Iraq before being medically retired, said the home will give his family the stability and security they deserve after years of combat-related injuries and struggles.
Val-p Library could take over old City Council chambers
Valparaiso commissioners approved moving forward with a plan to expand the city’s public library into the former City Council chambers. Library Director Hope Willis said the additional space would address overcrowding, accessibility concerns and growing demand for library programs and services.
Norriego Point update | Residents voice concerns as city & county work toward ‘conflict resolution’
Destin and Okaloosa County officials are working toward a compromise over who should manage Norriego Point. A proposed agreement would give Destin jurisdiction over the property in exchange for free parking for Okaloosa County residents. Officials and residents raised concerns about development, land-use regulations, jurisdiction and the property’s future.
Mills Degree of Excellence | NEST Program helps new Eagles soar at Niceville High School
Niceville High School senior Alli Culbertson has spent her high school years helping incoming freshmen find their footing through the NEST Program. As a NEST director and varsity cheerleader, Culbertson helps students connect, learn school traditions and feel more comfortable as they begin their high school journey.
Niceville Good Neighbor | Howard Hill dedicates decades to providing affordable soccer opportunities for Niceville kids
Howard Hill has spent more than 30 years leading Niceville’s PAL Soccer League, helping provide affordable soccer opportunities for local children. His dedication to youth sports and PAL’s special-needs VIP program earned him August’s Ryan Cabaniss Niceville Good Neighbor Award.
Cynthia West addresses questions about credentials; social media past
Okaloosa School Board District 5 candidate Cynthia West is responding after her opponent’s wife acknowledged making anonymous Facebook posts questioning West’s mental health qualifications. West says she has never claimed to be a licensed social worker in Florida and discussed her education, counseling experience and the social media posts circulating about her.
Suspect killed in Crestview SWAT standoff may have intended to attack nearby school, Sheriff says
A man killed during a Crestview SWAT standoff may have intended to attack a nearby school, according to Okaloosa County Sheriff Eric Aden. Investigators discovered weapons, ammunition, gas masks and IEDs inside the suspect’s home after he opened fire on police executing a Risk Protection Order.
Birth tourism, health insurance and VA centers: We fact check FL-1 House candidates
With Florida’s Aug. 18 primary approaching, Mid Bay News fact checked claims made by candidates at a recent FL-1 forum, including statements about birth tourism, health insurance premiums, VA staffing, veterans’ care, campaign spending and the COVID-19 vaccine mandate.
