Local food pantries see rise in clients as federal shutdown deepens; SNAP, WIC funding decreased

As the federal shutdown stretches into its second month, families across Northwest Florida are losing vital food assistance.
Local food pantries, from Sharing & Caring in Niceville to Emerald Coast Food Rescue, are seeing record demand.
JetBlue Expands Service to Florida Panhandle With New Flights to DestinâFort Walton Beach Starting March 2026

JetBlue Expands Service to Florida Panhandle With New Flights to DestinâFort Walton Beach Starting March 2026 Staff Reports November 6, 2025 9:37 am Aviation, Destin, Fort Walton Beach, Tourism, Travel In Brief: ðĪ Who: JetBlue Airways, Okaloosa County Commission Chairman Paul Mixon, JetBlue Vice President Dave Jehn ðŦ What: Launching new nonstop seasonal flights to […]
Sjoberg Named to Okaloosa Surtax Committee

Local developer and Mid Bay News co-host Paul Sjoberg has been appointed to the Okaloosa Half Cent Surtax Committee, where he will help guide the county’s continued growth and infrastructure development.
Shrimp Basket Cook Checks on Regular, Saves His Life in Pensacola

When a longtime Shrimp Basket regular didnât show up for his usual visit, cook Donell decided to check on him â a decision that likely saved the manâs life. His quick action and compassion have drawn praise across social media and from the Pensacola community.
Rotary Club of Destin Expands Public Rescue Tube Program Across Okaloosa County Beaches

âThese tubes are already making a difference at Destin beach accesses,â said Rotary project co-chairs Dion Moniz and Wayne Bernheisel. âNow, we are excited to expand this proven program across more parts of Okaloosa County, making our beaches even safer for residents and visitors.”
Okaloosa advances East Pass dredging project with new state grant

Okaloosa County will use a $320,000 state grant and matching funds to begin design and permitting for a major dredging expansion in East Pass, with construction targeted for 2027 or later.
Gulfarium Celebrates 70 Years with Year-Long Events, Discounted Admission

From leaping dolphins to a 70-year-old manatee, Gulfarium is throwing a year-long party to celebrate seven decades on the Emerald Coast.
Walton Commissioner Drake to PGA: No Contract, No Deal

Walton County leaders are holding the line on a proposed PGA Tour event until they see a formal contract with clear terms and contingencies.
Walton Wrestles With Tantalizing PGA Tour Gamble

A $30 million gamble? Walton County weighs a high-stakes PGA Tour deal amid budget concerns, tourism shifts, and rising calls for compromise.
UPDATE – Tragedy in Destin: Parents Drown, Son Saved by Heroic Beachgoer

Two people died in an apparent drowning on May 27 near SunDestin Resort in Destin, marking the first confirmed drowning fatalities of the 2025 summer season in Okaloosa County.