Northeast Okaloosa County designated rural area of opportunity to boost economic growth

Governor DeSantis’ Executive Order designates northeast Okaloosa County as a Rural Area of Opportunity to boost economic growth and job creation.
Autonomous Jet Flies with Pilots in Gulf Range Trial

A new test at Eglin AFB showed how autonomous drones like the XQ-58A Valkyrie could team up with human pilots in future air combat.
Annual ‘Stuff the Bus’ School Supply Drive returns in Okaloosa County

Okaloosa County is gearing up for its annual “Stuff the Bus” school supply drive on Aug. 2 to help local students in need.
Health Advisory remains in effect for Boggy Bayou following wastewater spill

A health advisory remains in effect for Boggy Bayou in Valparaiso following a July 4 wastewater spill, as officials continue testing to ensure the water is safe.
Okaloosa Sheriff Announces Capture of Murder Suspect in Mexico

A murder suspect tracked for four years was arrested in Mexico after a tip to Emerald Coast Crime Stoppers.
Niceville Knights of Columbus Receive Statewide Award for Charity Work

Knights of Columbus Council 13527 in Niceville earned statewide recognition for over 15 years of hands-on service building homes with Habitat for Humanity.
Packed with Love, Ready to Learn

Packed with Love, Ready to Learn Staff Reports June 30, 2025 2:50 pm Okaloosa County, Schools and Education, Walton County The Emerald Coast Children’s Advocacy Centers (ECCAC) have launched their annual Back-to-School Supplies Drive, aiming to give students in Okaloosa and Walton Counties the tools they need to start the school year strong. From July […]
Okaloosa County to break ground on $16.75 million Tarpon Beach Park

City and county officials will break ground on Tarpon Beach Gulf Front Park in Destin on July 7, a $16.75 million project expanding public access to the Gulf with new amenities and free parking.
Buttercup the Chihuahua Is Ready to Go Home

Buttercup the Chihuahua Is Ready to Go Home Staff Reports June 27, 2025 12:27 pm Charities and Nonprofits, Niceville, Pets In Brief: Buttercup is a 15-pound chihuahua mix with big eyes, a bigger heart, and a quiet love for adult companionship. She’s crate-trained, potty-trained, and ready to leave rescue life behind for good — if […]
More Trolleys, Longer Hours for Pensacola Beach Air Show

More Trolleys, Longer Hours for Pensacola Beach Air Show Staff Reports June 26, 2025 12:40 pm Pensacola Beach, Tourism, Traffic In Brief: 🚌 Expanded Service: SRIA extends trolley hours and adds buses for Air Show 📍When & Where: July 11–12, on Pensacola Beach from Park East and Park West to Casino Beach 🚦Expect Delays: Riders […]