SSUS set to sink— Let’s dive in to the process and preparation
Okaloosa County has spent $13.47 million to purchase, remediate and prepare the SS United States for deployment as an artificial reef in the Gulf of Mexico. The project exceeded its original budget by more than $3 million, with unexpected docking fees in Philadelphia and Mobile contributing to the increase.
Niceville police will be authorized to carry out ICE actions under federal agreement
Niceville police officers will be authorized to perform certain immigration enforcement functions after the City Council unanimously approved joining ICE’s 287(g) program. The agreement allows participating officers to carry out designated federal immigration duties under ICE supervision. The city has not yet detailed how the program could affect local enforcement.
LATEST: Police release name of man killed in Monday’s horrendous wreck on John Sims
A morning traffic crash on John Sims Parkway in Niceville left one person dead and closed a major roadway for over five hours. Police are investigating reports of racing or road rage after a truck crashed into a tree near Partin Drive, prompting detours through local roads and Niceville High School.
Free estate planning summit coming to Niceville Oct. 22
A free educational seminar on estate, financial, and tax planning will be held on Thursday, October 22, from 9 a.m. to noon at Northwest Florida State College’s Niceville campus. Hosted by the Estate Planning Council of the Emerald Coast, the public event offers expert guidance and practical planning checklists.
HISTORY: Baker Alum Dies in Afghanistan Combat
Baker High School graduate Preston Medley died in October 2008 in a roadside bomb attack in Afghanistan at age 23. Medley, a former Baker School football and broadcast student, left behind a young daughter and an unborn baby born two months later. His body was escorted to Crestview for services.
Post-Isaias Update from the Emerald Coast: October 12
As post-Hurricane Isaias recovery continues across Okaloosa County, city facilities in Crestview and Niceville have reopened, though Turkey Creek and Children’s Park remain closed. CHELCO has restored power to over 50,000 members, while DOH-Okaloosa issued a health advisory for Choctawhatchee Bay and Santa Rosa Sound following wastewater overflows.
Photo gallery | Scenes from the aftermath of Hurricane Isaias
Staff photographer Casey Drayer shares photos from the aftermath of Hurricane Isaias and cleanup efforts around Okaloosa County.
DeSantis holds press conference in Destin; confirms 2 hurricane-related deaths
Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis confirmed two hurricane-related deaths during a press conference on Okaloosa Island. Crews are clearing debris, restoring power to hundreds of thousands of customers and preparing for potential flooding. State officials also outlined insurance assistance and recovery resources for hurricane-damaged businesses.
Liveblog: Hurricane Isaias Coverage for the Emerald Coast
Niceville declared a state of emergency as Tropical Storm Isaias approaches the Emerald Coast. Heavy rainfall, strong winds, and storm surge up to seven feet are expected. Meanwhile, Okaloosa County School District has canceled all Thursday and Friday classes, rescheduling major high school football games to next week.
Hurricane Isaias | So you’ve been ordered to evacuate— Now what?
Hurricane Isaias is expected to make landfall in the Florida Panhandle Friday. Here’s what Okaloosa County residents need to know about evacuations, shelters, safety and recovery resources.
