Val-p Library could take over old City Council chambers
Valparaiso commissioners approved moving forward with a plan to expand the city’s public library into the former City Council chambers. Library Director Hope Willis said the additional space would address overcrowding, accessibility concerns and growing demand for library programs and services.
Norriego Point update | Residents voice concerns as city & county work toward ‘conflict resolution’
Destin and Okaloosa County officials are working toward a compromise over who should manage Norriego Point. A proposed agreement would give Destin jurisdiction over the property in exchange for free parking for Okaloosa County residents. Officials and residents raised concerns about development, land-use regulations, jurisdiction and the property’s future.
Woman, 73, Found Dead in Vehicle on I-10.
Officials assert a 73-year-old woman was found deceased on I-10, claiming no foul play suspected pending investigation.
Basin Alliance changes name, claims expanded mission.
The organization claims its renaming promises enhanced local water protection and increased coordination, pending verification of impact.
Niceville’s New Wawa Is Opening With Free Coffee and a First-Responder Challenge
Wawa will celebrate the grand opening of its new Niceville store Thursday, August 27, with free hot coffee, T-shirts for the first 100 customers and a Hoagies for Heroes competition featuring local first responders. The celebration at 1560 E. John Sims Parkway will also include remarks, music, Wally Goose and a ribbon cutting.
Curtis Johnson Murder Trial Ends With A Not-Guilty Verdict
A Santa Rosa County jury has acquitted former Okaloosa County corrections sergeant Curtis Marvin Johnson of second-degree murder in the 2025 shooting death of his roommate, Barbara “Barbie” Dedert. Johnson was found not guilty August 20, 2026, bringing the case to a close more than a year after the shooting.
OCSD Summer Feeding Program Serves More Than 71,000 Meals to Students
The Okaloosa County School District served 71,774 breakfasts and lunches through its 2026 Summer Feeding Program. The initiative helped ensure students had access to nutritious meals while school was out, with support from Food Services staff, school employees, athletic programs and participating schools across the county.
Mills Degree of Excellence | NEST Program helps new Eagles soar at Niceville High School
Niceville High School senior Alli Culbertson has spent her high school years helping incoming freshmen find their footing through the NEST Program. As a NEST director and varsity cheerleader, Culbertson helps students connect, learn school traditions and feel more comfortable as they begin their high school journey.
Mark Franks Rises to Top Leadership Post at Florida League of Cities
Shalimar Mayor Mark Franks has been elected president of the Florida League of Cities for the 2026-2027 term. The lifelong Okaloosa County resident will lead the statewide organization’s advocacy and member engagement efforts while representing the interests of Florida’s municipalities and promoting local decision-making throughout his one-year term.
Niceville Good Neighbor | Howard Hill dedicates decades to providing affordable soccer opportunities for Niceville kids
Howard Hill has spent more than 30 years leading Niceville’s PAL Soccer League, helping provide affordable soccer opportunities for local children. His dedication to youth sports and PAL’s special-needs VIP program earned him August’s Ryan Cabaniss Niceville Good Neighbor Award.
