Powerful Federal Drug and Gun Charges Rock the Mary Esther Community

A Mary Esther man is facing federal charges tied to fentanyl trafficking and illegal firearm possession following a grand jury indictment.
Surveillance Video and Public Tips Help Expose PAWS Donation Theft

Fort Walton Beach Police arrested a local man after a donation box containing cash was stolen from the Panhandle Animal Welfare Society earlier this week.
Okaloosa Schools Post Powerful Academic Gains, Higher Graduation Rates

Okaloosa County School District leaders are celebrating strong academic performance, rising graduation rates, and major campus improvements following the first semester of the school year.
Controlled Burns Begin at Shoal River Preserve

Okaloosa County will begin prescribed burns at Shoal River Preserve later this week as part of an effort to improve habitat health, reduce wildfire risks, and prepare the preserve for its public opening.
Exceptional Leadership Powers Niceville Cadets to a Rare Perfect Inspection

Perfect score. Historic achievement. Niceville High School’s AFJROTC cadets just set the standard for excellence.
Devastating Santa Rosa Beach Fire Sparks Urgent Space Heater Safety Warning

South Walton firefighters battled a fast-moving garage fire Monday afternoon in Santa Rosa Beach, sending one resident to the hospital and causing heavy damage to the home.
Eglin AFB Services Limited Amid Government Furlough

Eglin AFB announces limited services and facility closures during the government shutdown and furlough, impacting multiple base departments.
Local Hospital Earns Prestigious Statewide Distinction

Sacred Heart Emerald Coast Captures Repeat Statewide Hospital Honor Sacred Heart Emerald Coast Captures Repeat Statewide Hospital Honor Staff Reports February 2, 2026 2:30 pm Emerald Coast, Health, South Walton, Walton County In Brief: Sacred Heart Emerald Coast earned a place on Newsweek’s Best-in-State Hospitals list for the second consecutive year. The hospital continues to […]
Florida Rolls Out New Driver License Exam Standards Statewide

Florida Rolls Out New Driver License Exam Standards Statewide Staff Reports February 2, 2026 1:20 pm Florida, State Government In Brief: 👤 Who: Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) 📢 What: English-only driver license testing policy 📅 When: Begins Friday, Feb. 6 📍 Where: All Florida driver license testing locations statewide 🚦 […]
Explore Florida’s Historic Parks for Free this Presidents Day Weekend

Florida State Parks will offer free admission during Presidents Day weekend to mark George Washington’s birthday and the start of America’s 250th anniversary.