Okaloosa commissioners reject 12-month data center moratorium 3-2 after hours of public opposition
Okaloosa County commissioners rejected a proposed 12-month moratorium on data centers in a 3-2 vote following passionate public opposition at Tuesday’s meeting. Despite strong calls from residents for an outright ban, the county will move forward with drafting regulations for data center development over the next 60 days.
Defense presents its case in trial of Chief Master Sgt. Anthony Green
The defense rested its case in the court-martial of Chief Master Sgt. Anthony Green, calling military leaders and family members to testify about his character, work schedule and alleged parenting concerns. The judge rejected the defense’s proposed affirmative defense based on parental rights. Closing arguments are expected tomorrow.
Judge denies controversial dismissal motions in manslaughter case
Circuit Judge William F. Stone has denied a defense motion to recuse himself, clearing the path for the manslaughter trial of former Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Deputy Eddie Duran to begin on September 28, 2026. Duran faces charges following the May 2024 fatal shooting of 23-year-old Hurlburt Field Airman Roger Fortson.
Eglin FCU unveils the Hub City’s hub for theatre and more with ribbon-cutting on Main Street.
The Eglin Federal Credit Union Arts and Education Center officially opened at 189 Main Street in downtown Crestview, transforming a historic hotel into a vibrant community hub. Featuring dedicated spaces for youth tutoring, financial wellness, and performing arts, the center offers free multi-disciplinary programming in partnership with local area non-profits.
Niceville’s Brightest Shine at Prestigious International Conference
Seven students from the Niceville High School Gifted Research Program recently returned from an eight-day trip to British Columbia, Canada. Presenting at the 3rd World Congress of Marine Stations, Niceville remains the only high school worldwide affiliated with the global NaGISA marine diversity study, showcasing high-level coastal research on an international stage.
Gaetz Tells Crestview Chamber: Florida Must Be Not Just Free, But Affordable
State Sen. Don Gaetz told Crestview Chamber members Florida must be not only “the free state” but also affordable. He highlighted millions in local road funding, a robotics program turning students into high‑wage workers, and urged voters who favor cutting property taxes to also demand specific spending cuts from local governments.
Okaloosa deputies arrest Niceville man, allege AI-generated CSAM
The Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office has arrested Niceville resident Marcus Jordan, charging him with three counts of possession of child sexual abuse material. According to investigators, the material was AI-generated. Jordan is currently released on a $125,000 bond, and the investigation remains ongoing while he awaits trial.
The woesome wait for Wawa ends in Niceville
More than 400 people welcomed the long-anticipated Wawa to Niceville on Thursday morning. The new location on John Sims Parkway, which features gas and Wawa’s signature hoagies, drew enthusiastic crowds, including local fans donning Philadelphia Eagles jerseys and former Wawa employees eager for a taste of home.
Niceville’s New Wawa Is Opening With Free Coffee and a First-Responder Challenge
Wawa will celebrate the grand opening of its new Niceville store Thursday, August 27, with free hot coffee, T-shirts for the first 100 customers and a Hoagies for Heroes competition featuring local first responders. The celebration at 1560 E. John Sims Parkway will also include remarks, music, Wally Goose and a ribbon cutting.
Christmas Lights, Music and Magic Return to Niceville for 10th Annual Show
Niceville’s “Tune In To Troon” Christmas Lightshow is celebrating its 10th year with a free nightly display of synchronized Christmas lights, music and animated features. The Bluewater Bay attraction runs from December 5 through January 6 at 1074 Troon Drive E, with shows beginning every evening at 6 p.m.
