Bill Lundy’s tale: The fake rebel who stole government money.
Bill Lundy became Okaloosa County’s most celebrated “living link” to the Civil War, even earning a Congressional medal. Yet, his fame was built on a foundation of falsehoods. Census records eventually revealed Lundy was born in 1860, proving he was merely a child, not a soldier, during the conflict.
Okaloosa County to remove all Flock cameras after FDOT memo
Okaloosa County will remove Flock license plate recognition cameras from state and county roads after FDOT revoked local law enforcement permits for LPR technology. The order cites concerns over misuse, data privacy and surveillance. Sheriff Eric Aden said the removal is disappointing from a public safety standpoint.
Profile | Meet the woman behind the panhandle’s most successful foodie blog
Joanna Davis started The 850 Foodie in 2020 after growing frustrated with negativity toward local restaurants online. What began as a place to share photos of food has grown into a community of more than 66,000 followers, where Davis highlights local businesses, celebrates food and encourages aspiring influencers to have fun.
Okaloosa deputies arrest Niceville man, allege AI-generated CSAM
The Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office has arrested Niceville resident Marcus Jordan, charging him with three counts of possession of child sexual abuse material. According to investigators, the material was AI-generated. Jordan is currently released on a $125,000 bond, and the investigation remains ongoing while he awaits trial.
Nationwide nonprofit gifts home to Crestview veteran
Former Army Staff Sergeant Christopher Williams and his family received a mortgage-free home in Crestview from Building Homes for Heroes. Williams, who served three deployments in Afghanistan and Iraq before being medically retired, said the home will give his family the stability and security they deserve after years of combat-related injuries and struggles.
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.
