Destin Charity Wine Auction Foundation Changes Its Name.
The Destin Charity Wine Auction Foundation rebranded as Northwest Florida Children’s Foundation, claiming broader impact and “systemic change” for children.
Whiplash and unexpected upsets: Primary provides election excitement on Emerald Coast

Primary night in Okaloosa and Walton Counties saw low voter turnout, leading to a mix of predictable incumbent victories and a major shakeup in local government. While Okaloosa voters largely stuck with incumbents, Walton County voters delivered a significant upset in the Commission District 2 race, signaling potential change ahead.
After wild week in the media – West says she’s staying
Cynthia West told a conservative influencer on a podcast that she is pulling out of her race for School Board in Okaloosa County, citing the negative impact on her and her family from backlash over her allegations against Congressman Thomas Massie. West had alleged Massie emotionally abused her and offered her $5,000 in ‘hush money’ to walk away from a wrongful termination complaint. Massie denied the allegations. When reached for comment, West stated, “I have not made a final decision honestly, I’m just trying to wrap my head around what happened.”
“We are on a war footing” Pentagon brass’s blunt message for the Emerald Coast:

When Dale Marks, Assistant Secretary of War for Energy, Installations, and Environment, spoke to the Niceville-Valparaiso Chamber of Commerce, he delivered a blunt message: Northwest Florida is on the front line of America’s industrial “arsenal of freedom,” and time is now the nation’s most dangerous adversary. Marks, who is also Acting Deputy Under Secretary for Acquisition and Sustainment, credited his time on the Emerald Coast with shaping his view of defense, stating, “The military does not operate in a vacuum… We operate within the strength of our host communities”.
Former fire chief sues Valparaiso. Here are the allegations:

Former fire chief sues Valparaiso. Here are the allegations: Christopher Saul April 20, 2026 2:32 pm Valparaiso Former Valparaiso Fire Lieutenant and Interim Fire Chief David Lanier, who was fired after an investigation into alleged retaliation and accusations that he used a racial slur at Black firefighters, has filed a lawsuit against the City of […]
Niceville’s Marello Graduates to Administration

After graduating the students who started school when he became Principal at Niceville High School, Charles Marello is moving on to a new challenge.
Motorcyclist, SUV passenger killed in high-speed crash on Okaloosa Island

A 19-year-old motorcyclist and a 50-year-old SUV passenger were killed in a high-speed collision on U.S. 98 in Fort Walton Beach on July 25. Two others were seriously injured.
Hurricane Helene Watch. Here’s What We Know Now:

The National Weather Service in Mobile is monitoring a low-pressure system near the Yucatan Peninsula, which could develop into a tropical depression later this week as it moves north into the Gulf of Mexico. While no immediate impact is expected for northwest Florida, residents are urged to stay informed and prepare for possible hazardous marine conditions and rip currents.
FOOTBALL: Niceville’s Marise Hero in Close Win Over Pine Forest

In a heart-pounding matchup, kicker Logan Marise proved to be the hero of the night as his clutch field goal secured a thrilling 31-28 victory for Niceville over Pine Forest. The Nest was buzzing with excitement, and Marise’s poise under pressure brought the home crowd to their feet, sealing the win in spectacular fashion!
Okaloosa County Commission Chooses Its Chair, Vice Chair for 2023.
Third-term commissioner Trey Goodwin will serve as the chair of the Okaloosa County Commission for the 2nd time after a unanimous vote by fellow commissioners