This massive concert transformed Emerald Coast tourism forever!
On April 21, 1984, the band Heart played a free beach concert on Okaloosa Island to 35,000 people, causing a traffic nightmare that lasted for hours. This pivotal event—fueled by free beer and college Spring Breakers—forced Okaloosa County to choose whether the Emerald Coast would be a destination for rowdy students or for families.
Manhunt Underway in Okaloosa After an Armed Home Invasion
Two masked suspects carried out an armed home invasion late Sunday night near Fort Walton Beach, prompting an ongoing investigation by the Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office.
PHOTOS: Coffee Shop opens at Emerald Coast Autism Center
PHOTOS: Coffee Shop opens at Emerald Coast Autism Center Christopher Saul April 16, 2026 2:23 pm Uncategorized Community leaders, chamber representatives, families, and students gathered this week at the Emerald Coast Autism Center (ECAC) for the official ribbon cutting of the Carter Cafe, a new training space supporting the Center’s Transition to Work program. The […]
Comunity Pillar Moves Foward After 30 Years of Service
Kimberly Hixon is being recognized for 30 years of service with Eglin Federal Credit Union as she prepares for her next leadership role.
History of the Emerald Coast: Camp Walton shelled by Union forces
On April 1, 1862, soldiers of the Union Army fired their cannons at the Walton Guards on the temple mound of Camp Walton and caused them to flee all the way to Boggy Bayou. Here’s how it went down.
FULL Unofficial results in Fort Walton charter referendum released by Judge
The full uncertified results of the vote on five proposed ballot amendments are hot off the presses.
A Major Milestone for Liza Jackson Park: $3.1M Approved
Fort Walton Beach is moving forward with long-awaited upgrades to Liza Jackson Park, approving a $3.1 million project focused on parking, drainage, and amenities.
“Thug” Outlaws MC Biker Pleads Guilty in FWB bombing
The man who threw an explosive device into a Jimmy John’s after an altercation at the Emerald Coast Harley Davidson Dealership in Fort Walton Beach will spend at least the next seven years in Federal Prison.
Social Media Turns High School Speaker Into Political Flashpoint
A guest speaker invited by a student-led club at Fort Walton Beach High School has ignited the first major debate in the race for the District 1 seat on the Okaloosa County School Board.
Judge makes key ruling before critical Fort Walton Beach referendum
Judge William Stone’s ruling on several ballot measures ahead of Fort Walton Beach’s March 10 referendum vote has serious consequences for the future.
