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.
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.
Federal Immigration Cases Highlight Repeat Illegal Reentry in Okaloosa County
Federal prosecutors announced 16 immigration convictions in June, including multiple cases originating in Okaloosa and Walton counties.
DeSantis slashes funding for child abuse protection in Okaloosa, despite funding same programs around Florida
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis vetoed funding to support the Niceville Exchange Club’s initiative to bring a child abuse prevention center to the Emerald Coast for the second year in a row, despite granting funds to Exchange Club chapters in Jacksonville and Palm Beach, FL. According to an Appropriations Project Request, Representative Patt Maney sponsored the […]
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.
DeSantis vetoes dozens of funding requests from Maney & Boyles, reps who opposed property tax cut
Florida State Representatives Patt Maney and Nathan Boyles made headlines in June as the only two Republicans to vote “no” on Governor Ron DeSantis’ controversial amendment that would eliminate property tax for Florida homeowners. This week, DeSantis signed Florida’s official budget for Fiscal Year 2026, deciding the fate of hundreds of local funding requests submitted […]
