After Needle Sticks Employee, Niceville Manager Makes Plea to Residents About Flushable Wipes

A city worker faces months of medical testing after a needle was found in a sewer blockage—Niceville’s City Manager has a strong message for residents on the dangers of flushing hazardous items!
OPINION: The Sound of Silence, From An Elected Official

The newly elected County Commissioner for District 3 cancels interviews and avoids questions on crucial issues—find out what remains unanswered.
Okaloosa Superintendent Reaches Out to Families After Mass Shooting at High School in Georgia

Okaloosa County Schools reaffirm their commitment to student safety, highlighting advanced safety measures and mental health support following a tragic event in Georgia.
Former Okaloosa Deputy Charged In Death of Hurlburt Airman Fortson

The State Attorney has charged former Okaloosa Deputy Eddie Duran in the death of Senior Airman Roger Fortson.
6 Things You Need To Know If You’re Thinking About Buying or Refinancing a House in Niceville Right Now

Navigating Niceville’s 2024 housing market requires understanding its seller’s market dynamics, leveraging decision fatigue, and carefully considering refinancing amidst high prices and fluctuating rates.
Nihill Taylor to Replace Martin at STEMM Academy

The Okaloosa County School Board has appointed Kimberly Nihill Taylor, current Assistant Principal at Niceville High School, as the new principal of STEMM Academy in Valparaiso. Taylor, a longtime educator with over three decades of experience in the Okaloosa County School District, succeeds Dr. Scheree Martin, who was reassigned following disciplinary issues. Taylor brings a wealth of experience and dedication to her new role, having previously served as a teacher, coach, and administrator in the district.
Florida Man Robs Bank in Flip Flops, Hides Cash in Maserati

A 66-year-old Destin resident, Charles Gallagher, has been arrested for allegedly robbing a Truist Bank on Emerald Coast Parkway using a note to demand cash. Authorities found his black 2017 Maserati with concealed identifiers, along with cash, a surgical mask, and glasses. Gallagher, who has faced financial difficulties since 2017, is held without bond on charges of robbery without a weapon, facing up to 15 years in prison if convicted.
Niceville Man Arrested For Sending Classified Eglin Documents Illegally

Paul J. Freeman, a 68-year-old resident of Niceville, has been indicted on charges of unauthorized possession and transmission of classified national defense information. The indictment alleges that Freeman shared sensitive information about U.S. Air Force aircraft and weapons with unauthorized individuals on multiple occasions between November 2020 and March 2021. If convicted, Freeman faces up to ten years in prison for each of the nine counts.
Okaloosa School Board Member Resigns to Lead Destin High School

Destin High School welcomes a familiar face as its new principal, Dr. Diane Kelley, a lifelong educator and current school board member. Dr. Kelley, who will officially begin
Under Cloud of Controversy, STEMM Principal to Lead Education Efforts at Okaloosa DJJ Facility

In a move that sparked public outcry and emotional testimonies, the Okaloosa County School Board approved the transfer of Dr. Scheree Martin from Okaloosa STEMM Academy to a leadership position at the Department of Juvenile Justice facility south of Crestview. Despite unanimous support from the board, except for the absent Tim Bryant, parents vociferously opposed the transfer, citing Martin’s controversial past with children with autism at STEMM Academy. Superintendent Marcus Chambers defended the decision, emphasizing the district’s commitment to addressing misconduct while navigating complex personnel decisions.