Northwest Florida Ballet Académie Opens Auditions for 2025-2026 School Year

Northwest Florida Ballet is holding auditions for its tuition-free Académie program for incoming 3rd and 4th grade students, with registration open through April 24 for tryouts on April 26–27 in Fort Walton Beach.
Pensacola Navy Days Highlights Ongoing Ties Between Community and Military

Pensacola Navy Days is underway this spring with events honoring the region’s military heritage and the community’s ties to service members stationed at NAS Pensacola.
Sacred Heart Emerald Coast Recognized Among Top Maternity Hospitals in U.S. for Fifth Year

Ascension Sacred Heart Emerald Coast has been named one of America’s Best Maternity Care Hospitals by Newsweek for the fifth year, with additional national recognition for its maternal care services and regional NICU access.
NWFSC Launches Summer Career Camp for Middle and High School Students

Northwest Florida State College’s Futures Forward Summer Camp will offer local students in grades 8–12 the chance to explore career paths through hands-on training this summer.
Okaloosa County Jury Convicts Man of Soliciting Sexual Conduct Involving Child

Michael Todd Ronna was convicted by an Okaloosa County jury for using a computer to solicit a parent for sexual access to a child following a months-long undercover investigation by law enforcement.
South Walton Filmmakers Highlight Regional Biodiversity at Florida Film Festival Panel

A conservation-themed panel at the Florida Film Festival spotlighted The Paper Bear, an animated film set in Walton County, exploring how storytelling can promote environmental preservation.
Niceville High Big Band Scores Top Marks in First State Jazz MPA Since 1998

Niceville High School’s Big Band received top ratings at the State Jazz MPA in Tallahassee, marking their return to the state event for the first time in nearly three decades.
Walton County Jury Convicts Man of Sexual Battery on Yacht

A Walton County jury convicted Dr. Francis Nicoli Herrbold of sexual battery following a 2023 incident on a yacht at the Sandestin Marina; sentencing is scheduled for June 3.
FDLE Commissioner and NWFSC Alumnus Mark Glass to Deliver Commencement Address

FDLE Commissioner and NWFSC alumnus Mark Glass will deliver the Spring 2025 commencement address at his alma mater during ceremonies scheduled for May 9 in Niceville.
Ruckel and Niceville Cheer and Dance Teams Recognized for State and National Championships

The Okaloosa County School Board recognized Ruckel Middle School and Niceville High School’s cheer and dance teams for winning state and national titles during the 2024–25 competition season.