Governor DeSantis Announces Successful Evacuation of 28 Floridians from Jamaica Following Hurricane Melissa
Twenty-eight Floridians were safely evacuated from Jamaica following Category 5 Hurricane Melissa, with the Florida Division of Emergency Management coordinating the operation under Governor Ron DeSantis’ direction. The evacuees arrived at Tampa International Airport on November 3, 2025.
Okaloosa County to Observe Veterans Day with Unveiling of New Women Veteran Statues
Okaloosa County will mark Veterans Day with a ceremony at the Destin-Fort Walton Beach Convention Center, featuring the unveiling of two new statues honoring women veterans, including Marine Sgt. Nicole L. Gee and an Iroquois Warrior Woman from the War of 1812. The statues will later be added to the Women Veterans Monuments at Veterans Park on Okaloosa Island.
Wreaths Across America Seeks Sponsors to Honor Every Veteran in Niceville and Valparaiso
Wreaths Across America’s Twin Cities chapter is calling on the community to help honor local veterans this December by sponsoring wreaths for every grave in Niceville and Valparaiso. Ceremonies will take place on December 13, 2025, at Sunset Cemetery and Heritage Gardens to remember and honor those who served.
Okaloosa Sheriff Arrests 14 for Attempted Child Sex Crimes
In a sweeping undercover operation, Okaloosa County authorities arrest 14 men accused of targeting children online for sex, highlighting the ongoing battle against digital predators.
Okaloosa County Libraries Celebrate Adult Graduates Earning High School Diplomas
The Okaloosa County Public Library Cooperative will hold a graduation ceremony on Nov. 1 to honor 16 adult learners who earned high school diplomas and career certificates through the Career Online High School program.
Two People Shot at Fort Walton Beach Days Inn
Fort Walton Beach Police arrested a suspect after two people were shot and injured late Monday night at the Days Inn on Miracle Strip Parkway. Officers say the shooting was an isolated incident and that both victims are in stable condition.
Niceville Good Neighbor: Susie Green!
Susie Green, a dedicated band mom and volunteer, earned the Niceville Good Neighbor award for her unwavering commitment to supporting local youth through the NHS Eagle Pride Band Boosters.
Fort Walton Beach Announces Road Closures for Halloween Trick-or-Treating
Fort Walton Beach will close sections of Brooks Street SE and Bay Drive SE on Friday, Oct. 31, from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. for Halloween trick-or-treating to ensure safety for families and children.
Fort Walton Beach Police Department Earns Reaccreditation From CFA With Full Compliance
The Fort Walton Beach Police Department has earned reaccreditation from the Commission for Florida Law Enforcement Accreditation with no non-compliant findings, reaffirming its commitment to professional standards and community accountability.
Okaloosa County High School Bands Achieve Straight Superior Ratings at 2025 FBA Marching Assessment
All five Okaloosa County high school marching bands earned Straight Superior ratings at the 2025 Florida Bandmasters Association Marching Music Performance Assessment, making the district the only one in its region with top ratings across all schools.
