One Flight Will Help Save Hundreds More Cats at Fort Walton Beach Shelter

SOCKS will fly 110 cats from Fort Walton Beach to Maryland, creating shelter space while giving more animals a chance at adoption.
Tropical Depression 2 likely to become Tropical Storm Bertha; minimal impact expected for FL Panhandle

Tropical Depression 2 is expected to strengthen into Tropical Storm Bertha while remaining offshore of the Florida Panhandle. Okaloosa County remains under a Tropical Storm Watch, though officials say impacts should be limited to heavy rain, gusty winds, dangerous surf and possible minor coastal flooding through Tuesday.
Destin councilwoman arrested after allegedly driving stranger’s truck from boat ramp

A Destin City Councilwoman is facing a criminal charge after police say she entered and drove a stranger’s truck without permission at a city boat ramp on July 4. Mayor Pro Tem Teresa Hebert was arrested on a charge of trespassing on conveyance. The case remains under investigation.
HCA Florida Fort Walton-Destin Delivers Breakthrough Cardiovascular Care Close to Home

HCA Florida Fort Walton-Destin Hospital performed the tri-county area’s first renal denervation procedure for patients with uncontrolled hypertension.
Zook Chiropractic Reaches 35 Years of Caring for Niceville Families

Zook Chiropractic is celebrating 35 years in Niceville with a week of community events, refreshments and a $35 new-patient special Aug. 10-14.
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.
Residents talk property tax at Niceville town hall

Niceville residents gathered Monday for a town hall on Gov. Ron DeSantis’ proposed property tax amendment, where City Manager David Deitch explained how potential revenue losses could affect city services, fees and taxes. Residents questioned the city’s projections and discussed possible impacts before the 2026 ballot measure.
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.
HISTORY: Okaloosa finally integrates its schools

Twelve years after the Brown v. Board ruling, Okaloosa County Schools finally voted to integrate on July 13, 1966. While initial resistance was strong—backed by local politicians and the “Pork Chop Gang” in the state legislature—the district eventually conceded to federal integration mandates to avoid losing critical funding.
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.