Emerald Coast Open Helps Control Invasive Lionfish

The Emerald Coast Open lionfish tournament, held from May 17-19, saw divers remove 11,844 invasive lionfish from the Gulf of Mexico throughout the event. Participants competed for $125,000 in prizes, with winners including VJL Seafood, Deep Water Mafia El Gato Negro, Lookin’ Back, and Bob Brown. The tournament also featured the Lionfish Festival and Restaurant Week, promoting conservation and culinary innovation with lionfish dishes.
AFFORDABLE HOUSING: Could This Move Spell the Beginning of the End of The Okaloosa Housing Crisis?

The Okaloosa County Board of County Commissioners unanimously voted to send a letter to Eglin Air Force Base Commander General Jeffery Geraghty, seeking his support to acquire a 200-acre parcel currently serving as Eglin’s golf course. The county aims to use this land for affordable housing and commercial space in a community with a median home sale price of $450,000. This initiative follows a collaborative meeting in March between local government leaders and the Air Force to discuss potential land acquisitions.
These Unique Concrete Blocks Will Change The Shape of Okaloosa County’s Diving and Fishing Industries

Marine life in the Gulf of Mexico celebrates a significant expansion in its habitat thanks to a $1.26 million artificial reef project. Funded by the Natural Resource Damage Assessment Fund, this initiative has not only created new underwater habitats but also promises to invigorate the region’s fishing and tourism industries.
Okaloosa County Gets Damage Recap After Storm

Residents of Okaloosa County were jolted awake early this morning as a powerful storm system unleashed its fury across the region. With winds reaching speeds of up to 70 mph and lightning illuminating the sky, the community found itself grappling with the aftermath of nature’s wrath.
With Adulthood on the Horizon – Parents of Children With Autism Prepare Non-Profit To Help Adults With Autism Live Well

Parents in Okaloosa County are spearheading the Ground Up Project, a non-profit initiative aimed at building a specialized facility for adults with Autism. This project seeks to provide full-time assistance and a centralized hub for services, addressing the lifelong needs of individuals on the Autism spectrum.”
Fire At Tailfins in Destin Injures one Firefighter

This is a developing story – as we get more information, we will put it out here.
NWFSC Launches Entrepreneurship Program For High Schoolers

Northwest Florida State College introduces the ELM Youth Program, providing high school students in Okaloosa and Walton counties with opportunities in entrepreneurship, leadership, and mentorship. Designed for rising juniors and seniors, the program offers workshops, community engagement, and a focus on building future leaders.
Here’s What Happened Near 27th Street In Niceville on Thursday:

Breaking News: Florida Highway Patrol’s dramatic search and arrest unfold in Okaloosa County. Find out the details of Leslie Pete Watson’s apprehension!
Reclaimed Water, Lower Costs, Another Step Closer to Reality In East Niceville

The City of Niceville has moved forward with plans to create a purple pipe pathway for reclaimed water, with an agreement signed at their recent council meeting. This agreement involves Okaloosa County’s assistance in installing the system, pending final approvals and permits from Eglin Air Force Base.
BREAKING: Mel Ponder Announces He Won’t Run for Re-Election as Okaloosa Commissioner

County Commissioner Mel Ponder, a long-time public servant in Okaloosa County, has announced that he will not run for re-election, marking a significant shift in local leadership. This decision opens up the field for new candidates and raises questions about the future direction of the county’s governance.