Eglin Air Force Base Announces Limited Services and Closures Amid Government Shutdown
Eglin Air Force Base will operate with reduced staff and partial closures in multiple service areas, including the library, dining facilities, fitness centers, and testing offices, amid the federal government shutdown.
Okaloosa County School District Launches ‘Champions of Education’ Program
The Okaloosa County School District launched its Champions of Education program on September 29, 2025, giving community members an inside look at district operations, student programs, and classroom innovation.
Stagecrafters to Perform Musical Comedy “Sister Act” in Fort Walton Beach
Stagecrafters Community Theatre will stage the musical comedy Sister Act at the Fort Walton Beach Civic Auditorium on November 7–9 and 14–16. The production, based on the 1992 film, features music by Alan Menken and lyrics by Glenn Slater. Tickets are $30 and available online or at the door.
Okaloosa Deputies, K9 Unit Apprehend Man Wanted on Multiple Domestic Battery Charges
An Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office K9 unit, alongside correctional institution teams, tracked and apprehended Anthony McLeod of Laurel Hill on Saturday after he attempted to flee through a swamp. Mcleod faces multiple domestic battery and criminal mischief charges.
Air Force Revises Physical Fitness Program, Adds Two-Mile Run and Updated Body Composition Standards
Beginning January 1, 2026, the Air Force will pause all Physical Fitness Assessments to transition to an updated program, with scored testing resuming September 1, 2026. The revised Physical Fitness Assessment includes a two-mile run, body composition measurement using the Waist-to-Height Ratio, and a 100-point scoring system across cardiorespiratory, muscle strength, and core endurance categories. Airmen will be required to test every six months, with diagnostic tests offered from March 1 through August 31, 2026, to help service members adapt to the new standards.
Falcon Peak highlights need to counter UAS threat
Falcon Peak 25.2 at Eglin Air Force Base focused on countering small drones at military installations. Demonstrations included the Anduril fly-away kit and Anvil effector intercepting aggressor UAS, with participation from USNORTHCOM, NORAD, and industry partners.
Choctawhatchee High to Unveil Totem Pole During Homecoming Celebration
Official unveiling of Choctawhatchee High School’s new 11-foot totem pole during Homecoming 2025, honoring more than 70 years of school tradition.
$2.8 Million in illegal bingo profits returned to Okaloosa charities
After years of legal battles, stolen bingo profits are finally going back where they belong — into Okaloosa County charities.
Walton Sheriff Charges Army Officer With Sex Crimes
Sean Benjamin Cushman, an Army captain, was arrested on child sexual abuse and child pornography charges linked to incidents in Walton County, Florida.
Choctawhatchee High School unveils new aerospace lab with $50,000 grant
Choctawhatchee High School unveiled a new aerospace lab and flight simulator on Sept. 23, funded through a $50,000 Florida Power & Light Company grant aimed at boosting STEM education opportunities.
