DeSantis Unveils Florida’s New “AI Bill of Rights” and Data Center Crackdown
Governor Ron DeSantis has announced a sweeping proposal to establish an “Artificial Intelligence Bill of Rights” in Florida, setting new rules for how AI can be used by businesses, governments, and insurers. The plan also places strict limits on hyperscale data centers, aiming to protect residents from higher utility costs, safeguard water resources, and give local communities the power to reject major tech developments.
Choctawhatchee High Students Learn Real-World Budgeting at Reality Check Event
About 80 Choctawhatchee High School students stepped into the world of adulthood during the Okaloosa Public Schools Foundation’s annual Reality Check event, a hands-on financial literacy simulation that challenged them to budget, prioritize expenses, and navigate real-life choices with the help of community partners.
Shocking Child Abuse Case in Fort Walton Beach
Deputies say a Fort Walton Beach–area woman intentionally burned the hands of two young children in her care and failed to seek medical help afterward. The 3- and 5-year-old victims were taken to Destin–Fort Walton Beach Hospital late Tuesday before being transferred to a specialized burn center in Mobile. The suspect, 52-year-old Jeny Soto Duenas, is now being held without bond at the Okaloosa County Jail.
Richbourg Lane to Close Thursday for Drainage Repairs
Drivers in Crestview can expect delays as the city announces a temporary road closure to allow crews to complete essential infrastructure work. The project, aimed at improving long-term traffic flow and public safety, will reroute vehicles through designated detours while repairs are underway. Officials urge residents to plan and allow extra travel time during the closure period.
Fort Walton Beach Growth Management Director Brings Three-Decade Family Christmas Village Tradition to Life at City Hall
Fort Walton Beach Growth Management Director Tim Gibson and his family have brought their decades-old Christmas village tradition to City Hall, unveiling an intricate display featuring more than 1,000 buildings, figurines, handmade pieces, and a working train. The public can explore the festive miniature world — complete with hidden surprises — through the end of the year.
Repeat Offender From Niceville Gets 15-Year Federal Sentence for Child Pornography
A Niceville man with a prior child pornography conviction has been sentenced to 15 years in federal prison after investigators discovered thousands of child sexual abuse images and videos on dozens of devices in his home. Federal and local law enforcement officials say the case highlights the importance of coordinated efforts to protect children from online exploitation.
Smalls Sliders Launches Fort Walton Beach Location With Grand Opening Event
Smalls Sliders is bringing its bold orange “Can” concept to Fort Walton Beach, opening a new location on Dec. 10th at 822 Beal Parkway. The grand opening will feature a ribbon-cutting ceremony, a donation to Arc of the Emerald Coast, and giveaways for the first 100 guests as the fast-growing slider brand continues its Florida expansion.
Winter Sandyland returns to Okaloosa Island benefiting local children in need
Winter Sandyland returns to Okaloosa Island befitting local children in need Staff Reports December 1, 2025 2:03 pm Uncategorized In Brief: 🔧 HVAC technician shortages are impacting service availability across Northwest Florida, especially during peak summer months. 💼 Companies like Mills Heating and Air are offering competitive wages and training pathways but still struggle to […]
Rain Pushes Christmas Parade to December 2
Rainy weather has pushed the community’s Christmas Parade to Tuesday, December 2, 2025, at 6:30 p.m. The parade will follow its familiar route along Eglin Parkway with a festive “Zoo Animals” theme, inviting families to line the roadway for a lively, colorful celebration once conditions clear.
Overnight Storms Could Pack a Surprise Punch
A low-pressure system skimming the Gulf Coast tonight could bring a small but meaningful threat of severe weather to coastal Alabama and the western Florida Panhandle. Per a memo from Okaloosa County Public Safety Director Patrick Maddox, forecasters say the position of a warm front will determine whether damaging winds or a brief, rain-wrapped tornado could develop as the system moves through overnight.
