Okaloosa Families Encouraged to Apply for School Meal Benefits During Federal Shutdown
Okaloosa County families affected by the federal government shutdown are encouraged to apply for free or reduced-cost school meals for students. Applications can be submitted anytime household income changes, ensuring students continue to receive meals throughout the school year.
Okaloosa County School District to Host Bus Driver Job Fair November 15 at Crestview High School
The Okaloosa County School District will hold a Bus Driver Job Fair on November 15 at Crestview High School, offering attendees a chance to test-drive buses, apply on-site, and learn about paid training and hiring bonuses for new drivers.
Destin Council calls for transparency after $83M land deal for Norriego Point
Destin leaders say Florida’s $83 million beach buy came with too many closed doors — and too little local say. Here’s what they’re doing to bring the deal into the sunshine.
Eglin Federal Credit Union Recognizes Gerta Hardy as 5-Star Performer for Third Quarter of 2025
Eglin Federal Credit Union named Member Service Supervisor Gerta Hardy its 5-Star Performer for the third quarter of 2025, recognizing her leadership and dedication to the credit union’s values during a challenging summer. Hardy, who joined Eglin FCU in 2014, continues to play a key role in supporting her team as the organization prepares to open a new branch on Eglin Air Force Base.
Okaloosa County to Observe Veterans Day with Unveiling of New Women Veteran Statues
Okaloosa County will mark Veterans Day with a ceremony at the Destin-Fort Walton Beach Convention Center, featuring the unveiling of two new statues honoring women veterans, including Marine Sgt. Nicole L. Gee and an Iroquois Warrior Woman from the War of 1812. The statues will later be added to the Women Veterans Monuments at Veterans Park on Okaloosa Island.
Wreaths Across America Seeks Sponsors to Honor Every Veteran in Niceville and Valparaiso
Wreaths Across America’s Twin Cities chapter is calling on the community to help honor local veterans this December by sponsoring wreaths for every grave in Niceville and Valparaiso. Ceremonies will take place on December 13, 2025, at Sunset Cemetery and Heritage Gardens to remember and honor those who served.
Okaloosa Sheriff Arrests 14 for Attempted Child Sex Crimes
In a sweeping undercover operation, Okaloosa County authorities arrest 14 men accused of targeting children online for sex, highlighting the ongoing battle against digital predators.
Okaloosa County Libraries Celebrate Adult Graduates Earning High School Diplomas
The Okaloosa County Public Library Cooperative will hold a graduation ceremony on Nov. 1 to honor 16 adult learners who earned high school diplomas and career certificates through the Career Online High School program.
Two People Shot at Fort Walton Beach Days Inn
Fort Walton Beach Police arrested a suspect after two people were shot and injured late Monday night at the Days Inn on Miracle Strip Parkway. Officers say the shooting was an isolated incident and that both victims are in stable condition.
Okaloosa County audit reveals $850K in transit overpayment, sparks reform
A new audit shows Okaloosa County overpaid its bus contractor by more than $850,000 over six years. What went wrong, and how is the county fixing it? Read the full report and see what this means for local taxpayers.
