House-passed defense bill sends $300M for Eglin, Hurlburt projects and includes Patronis Amendment
The U.S. House passed its $892.6 billion defense policy bill, authorizing major construction projects at Eglin and Hurlburt, while Rep. Jimmy Patronis claimed a win with his amendment on military vehicles.
City: Renovations on City Hall Slowed By Immigration Arrests
Valparaiso’s city headquarters project faces significant delays as immigration roundups in Northwest Florida disrupt construction crews, raising concerns about labor shortages and legal workers caught in the sweeps.
Okaloosa County backs Rotary proposal to expand beach rescue tube program
Okaloosa County is considering a low-cost but potentially lifesaving project to expand rescue tube stations along local beaches — do you think these flotation devices could make a difference?
Fort Walton Beach seeks Attorney General opinion on voter-approved budget cap
Fort Walton Beach is asking the Florida Attorney General to review whether its new charter amendment capping annual budget growth conflicts with state law, after the council approved the request in a 6–1 vote.
Fort Walton Beach Councilmember accused of coercing jailed man into property sale; Jeter denies allegations
A Fort Walton Beach councilmember is at the center of a storm after being accused of pressuring a jailed man into signing away his home — but he says the allegations are “100% false.”
Suspect arrested after Plew Elementary goes in lockdown, no injuries reported
Police arrested a fugitive who jumped Plew Elementary’s fence Wednesday, triggering a brief campus lockdown.
Advanced Sacred Hope Academy Expands to New Fort Walton Beach Campus
Advanced Sacred Hope Academy in Fort Walton Beach is opening a larger campus this fall to serve 75 autistic and neurodiverse students and is seeking community sponsorships for classrooms and a sensory-friendly playground.
Local Firefighters Prep for 9/11 Memorial Fundraiser
Residents and first responders will gather in Panama City Beach on Sept. 6 for the 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb, honoring the fallen of Sept. 11 while raising funds for the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation.
Okaloosa County approves $730K surtax request for new upgrades
Okaloosa County is fast-tracking long-awaited road and sidewalk upgrades — thanks to nearly $730,000 in local surtax funding.
Okaloosa County approves $700K contracts for artificial reef vessels
Okaloosa County is turning two old vessels into underwater havens for fish, divers, and anglers—here’s how the $700,000 project is making waves in the Gulf.
