A New Lifeline for Rural Florida: Ascension Sacred Heart Secures $2.8 Million
Ascension Sacred Heart has received more than $2.8 million to expand rural health care in Northwest Florida. The funding will help create a mobile stroke unit serving five counties and provide diagnostic and imaging equipment for the Emerald Coast Family Medicine Residency program, expanding access to timely care in rural communities.
After 80 Years, Niceville Church Unveils New Name And A Powerful New Vision
Generations United Church is beginning a new chapter in its more than 80-year history as One Church. The Niceville congregation officially adopted its new name on August 16, saying the change reflects its vision of reaching “just one more” person while maintaining its existing mission, ministries, worship schedule and commitment to the community.
Mark Franks Rises to Top Leadership Post at Florida League of Cities
Shalimar Mayor Mark Franks has been elected president of the Florida League of Cities for the 2026-2027 term. The lifelong Okaloosa County resident will lead the statewide organization’s advocacy and member engagement efforts while representing the interests of Florida’s municipalities and promoting local decision-making throughout his one-year term.
1 SOW awards Innovation OTA to HSU Educational Foundation
for a five-year innovation agreement. The partnership begins with a $183,600 CATALYST task order supporting training in emerging technologies, programming and data analytics, while participants develop software prototypes aimed at solving real-world military challenges.
Firefighters Battle Heavy Flames at Goatfeathers on 30A
A two-alarm fire caused significant damage to Goatfeathers Seafood Market in Santa Rosa Beach Wednesday. Firefighters faced heavy flames and an unstable roof before switching to a defensive operation. No injuries were reported. Investigators say the fire likely originated in the kitchen and was accidental.
Crestview Council Backs Ban on Data Centers
Crestview City Council voted 4-0 to direct staff to develop an ordinance that would prohibit data centers within the city. The move comes as officials consider future development, potential annexation and infrastructure needs around roughly 1,400 acres of underdeveloped property near the recently completed bypass.
CHELCO Golf Tournament Scores Big for Local Children, Raises Nearly $18,000
CHELCO’s 2026 Charity Golf Tournament raised a record $17,946.27 for three Northwest Florida nonprofits serving children and families. The event drew 30 teams and 35 sponsors to Eagle Springs Golf and Recreation Center in DeFuniak Springs. Since 2021, the tournament has raised more than $75,000 for local organizations.
Meth Indictment Brings Federal Charges Against Crestview Man
A Crestview man has been indicted on federal charges alleging he conspired to distribute and possessed more than 50 grams of methamphetamine. John Martin Elmore, 37, faces a mandatory minimum of 10 years in prison if convicted. His federal trial is scheduled for September 21 in Pensacola.
Antonio Haner Identified in Deadly Crestview Deputy-Involved Shooting
The Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office has identified Antonio Austin Haner, 29, as the man killed during an August 8 encounter on Alabama Street in Crestview. Authorities say Haner opened fire on deputies, striking law enforcement assets and nearby properties. No deputies were injured. FDLE is conducting an independent investigation.
The E-Bike Escape That Ended With a Crash
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