Niceville Good Neighbor: Josh Wervey is unapologetically himself

Marine veteran Josh Wervey has been named the latest recipient of the Niceville Good Neighbor Award. As the Niceville Valparaiso Chamber of Commerce’s events and membership manager, Wervey connects local businesses while balancing his most important role—being a single father dedicated to giving his son every opportunity to succeed.
3 of 5 Bluewater board members resign, citing concerns over fellow member’s behavior

Three of five Bluewater Municipal Services Benefit Unit board members resigned in May, citing concerns about a fellow board member’s conduct and the board’s ability to function. The resignations leave the MSBU without a quorum, preventing members from taking official action while county officials determine next steps.
Holt Man Accused of Lewd Act and Assaulting Deputies During Arrest

A Holt man faces multiple charges after deputies say he exposed himself in public and assaulted officers during his arrest.
Destin Council Challenges State and County in Twin Votes on Ramswell, Norriego Point

The Destin City Council challenged both state and county officials Monday night, approving a symbolic vote supporting Prebble Ramswell while warning ethics complaints over Norriego Point could still come if negotiations fail.
Freeport family rushes six-month-old to Orlando for tricky open-heart surgery.

Abel and Jordyn Albritton are navigating the most difficult challenge a parent can face. Their six-month-old son, Cove, was recently diagnosed with a ventricular septal defect (VSD), a congenital heart condition that will require urgent open-heart surgery. As the family prepares to travel to Orlando for the procedure, they are managing both the emotional weight of their son’s health and the sudden financial burden of hospitalization and care.
DEVELOPING: Child airlifted to Pensacola after terrifying pit bull mauling

A child was airlifted after an unprovoked dog attack in Valparaiso. Police say a neighbor restrained the dog until officers arrived.
Stars, Stripes, and Smiles Fill Grayton Beach: Today on 30A

Thousands filled Grayton Beach for its annual Fourth of July Parade featuring patriotic floats, water cannons, classic cars and unforgettable family fun.
OPINION: Niceville pickleball courts for seniors only – here’s why:

Judy Boudreaux, a longtime Niceville resident and past City Council member, argues that the fenced-in Pickleball courts at the Niceville Senior Center must remain exclusively for seniors.
JD Peacock believes he’s the right guy for Okaloosa School Board. Here’s Why:

Former Okaloosa County Clerk of Court and longtime sheriff’s office leader JD Peacock explains why he’s running for Okaloosa County School Board District 1, outlining his priorities of student safety, stronger fiscal oversight, and better support for teachers. In this interview, he addresses teacher pay gaps with Walton County, the closure of Longwood and Mary Esther Elementary, school choice and competition, and how the district should plan for growth in Crestview.
Josh Pulliam and the Vikes have epic spring game lineup as they row hard to Valhalla

Fort Walton Beach High School head football coach Josh Pulliam, a local who graduated from Choctawhatchee High School, returned to Okaloosa County after playing college ball and coaching at USF to rebuild the Vikings program. Now leading the team, Pulliam is focused on developing his players into better men through “small daily disciplines,” guided by the mantra “chop wood and carry water”. Despite the program having been “down for a little bit,” he notes that the community passion remains, and the Vikings are “rising from the ashes” with a committed staff. Looking ahead, the Vikings plan for offensive creativity, utilizing versatile players like Lavin McDaniel and Cannon Wilbur, while rebuilding a sound, aggressive defense. The coach is urging the community to come out and support the team at the upcoming spring game against Crestview, Mosley, and Pine Forest.