NEW: Cache of Docs Reveals How Weeks Got His Job at the Jail – and What He Said Before Resigned

A former Okaloosa County jail director claims the HR investigator probing him wanted a job at the company in question—now, new records reveal how he got hired over more experienced candidates.
Florida Wildlife Commission Advances Bear Hunt Rules

Florida Wildlife Commission Advances Bear Hunt Rules Staff Reports May 22, 2025 10:18 am Government, News, State Government, Wildlife In Brief: 🐻 Florida’s wildlife agency voted to advance a proposed rule allowing black bear hunting to return to the state. FWC says hunting could help manage bear populations—but critics question its necessity and impact. 📍 […]
City Manager Gives Update on Mullet Grounds Lease With Air Force, Potential For New Ball Fields in Niceville

Niceville City Manager David Deitch provided an update on efforts to expand the city’s sports field facilities, including ongoing negotiations with the Air Force for a long-term lease on the Mullet Festival Grounds and conversations with local landowners. The proposed lease would cost the city roughly $65,000 annually, though Deitch hopes to offset the cost with in-kind services. The total project could cost between $10-15 million, and the city is exploring a variety of funding sources to move forward.
Okaloosa County Begins Nightly Summer Mosquito Spraying

Okaloosa County Begins Nightly Summer Mosquito Spraying Staff Reports May 20, 2025 9:25 am News, Okaloosa County In Brief: 🦟 Okaloosa County has begun nightly mosquito spraying operations to combat seasonal mosquito populations and reduce disease risk 🗓️ Spraying begins one hour before sunset and follows a rotating schedule by region. Residents can check their […]
Freeport Council Approves New Lifesaving Devices for Areas Near Water

A life-saving solution is coming to Freeport—see how Rotary Clubs are helping protect lives with zero cost to the city.
As Summer Heat Looms, Florida HVAC Companies Compete For Talent

As summer heat looms, a shortage of HVAC technicians across Northwest Florida could leave residents sweating—unless they act early to prepare their A/C systems.
Niceville’s Hidden Post-Soviet Sister City

A newly resurfaced letter from 1992 reveals a long-forgotten attempt to form a sister city relationship between Niceville and Penza, Russia, echoing today’s discussions about partnering with New Taipei City.
Okaloosa County Releases 2025 High School Graduation Schedule

The Okaloosa County School District has announced its 2025 graduation schedule, including dates, locations, and livestream links for all local high schools.
Okaloosa County to Host Second Annual Hurricane Preparedness Expo on May 3

Okaloosa County will hold its second annual Hurricane Preparedness Expo on May 3 in Shalimar to help residents prepare for the 2025 Atlantic Hurricane Season.
Northwest Florida Ballet Académie Opens Auditions for 2025-2026 School Year

Northwest Florida Ballet is holding auditions for its tuition-free Académie program for incoming 3rd and 4th grade students, with registration open through April 24 for tryouts on April 26–27 in Fort Walton Beach.