Jessica Laird believes she’s the better option in the tricky Walton Tax Collector Election this summer. Here’s Why:
Tax collector candidate Jessica Carter Laird is making her case as a seasoned public servant for Walton County, emphasizing her 19+ years of experience, deep local roots, and commitment to innovation and public safety in the office. Her plans include addressing geographical challenges by pursuing remote self-service kiosks and bringing TSA PreCheck enrollment services to the county. Laird also highlights her focus on public policy, such as shifting immigration credential vetting back to the state level to reduce burdens on local offices, and shared a striking example of how her office’s diligence led to the identification of a human trafficking operation.
“Stop Fighting and Start Fixing”: Jim Bagby Makes His Case in Walton County District 4
In a Republican primary that’s shaping up as a referendum on growth, governance, and the future of Walton County, Jim Bagby is pitching himself as the candidate of practical change — someone who wants fewer political fights and more long-delayed problems finally solved. Bagby, a former Destin City Councilman and longtime local leader, is running for Walton County Commission, District 4. He laid out specific benchmarks by which he says voters can judge his first term if he’s elected.
Niceville’s Campbell Wins Taylor Haugen Award!
Niceville High School’s Harper Campbell, a future Samford football player and aspiring pastor, was honored with the Taylor Haugen Trophy in a surprise ceremony for exemplifying the award’s pillars of leadership, academics, and service.
Kemper Hodges Earns First QB Start For Air Force Academy
Junior quarterback Kemper Hodges made his first-ever start at quarterback for the Air Force Academy football team against the New Mexico Lobos, a challenging experience that underscores the unique life of a cadet-athlete.
Eglin Federal Credit Union Recognizes Gerta Hardy as 5-Star Performer for Third Quarter of 2025
Eglin Federal Credit Union named Member Service Supervisor Gerta Hardy its 5-Star Performer for the third quarter of 2025, recognizing her leadership and dedication to the credit union’s values during a challenging summer. Hardy, who joined Eglin FCU in 2014, continues to play a key role in supporting her team as the organization prepares to open a new branch on Eglin Air Force Base.
Five Okaloosa JROTC Cadets Receive Scholarships from Air and Space Forces Association
Five JROTC cadets from Okaloosa County high schools were awarded scholarships by the Air and Space Forces Association Eglin Chapter at a ceremony held April 15 at the Air Force Armament Museum.
Obituary: Dr. David Goetsch, A Pillar of the Niceville Community
Dr. David Goetsch was a pillar of the Niceville and Valparaiso Community.
NWFSC Launches Entrepreneurship Program For High Schoolers
Northwest Florida State College introduces the ELM Youth Program, providing high school students in Okaloosa and Walton counties with opportunities in entrepreneurship, leadership, and mentorship. Designed for rising juniors and seniors, the program offers workshops, community engagement, and a focus on building future leaders.
President of Northwest Florida State College Named Finalist for Florida Polytechnic University Presidency
Dr. G. Devin Stephenson, President of Northwest Florida State College, has been selected as a finalist for the top spot at Florida Polytechnic University.
Maney Overhauls Florida’s Mental Health Law – Brings Home Bacon for Niceville, Okaloosa
Representative Patt Maney kept busy during the 2024 state legislative session in Tallahassee.
