Florida Chamber President: Emerald Coast Must ‘Play the Long Game’ to Secure Economic Future

Florida Chamber President Mark Wilson told Emerald Coast business leaders that Florida’s growth depends on long-term planning, investment in early education, and local collaboration. Speaking alongside former Niceville City Councilman Sal Nodjomian, Wilson highlighted challenges such as housing affordability and retaining young workers while projecting that Florida could become the world’s 10th largest economy by 2030.
Niceville Officer Accused of Using Police Databases to Target Fellow Cop

Niceville Officer Accused of Using Police Databases to Target Fellow Cop Staff Reports October 11, 2025 7:57 pm Crime, Niceville, Public Safety In Brief: 👮 Who: Officer Coty Hall, Niceville Police Department💻 What: Arrested for alleged misuse of law enforcement databases and harassment📅 When: Arrested on October 10, 2025; investigation ran from January to October […]
Fort Walton Beach Woman Arrested on Prostitution Charge Following Undercover Investigation

Okaloosa County deputies arrested Suping Wu, 30, of New York, on a prostitution charge at a Fort Walton Beach spa following an undercover investigation prompted by tips from Emerald Coast Crime Stoppers.
Destin renews PAWS contract; Mary Esther hesitates amid stability concerns

Destin renewed its annual animal control contract with PAWS for $92,761, while Mary Esther delayed its decision amid doubts about the nonprofit’s financial stability and contract terms.
Okaloosa County Commission approves conceptual plans for new park

Okaloosa County Commission approves conceptual plans for new park Staff Reports October 8, 2025 12:32 am Uncategorized In Brief: 🏞️ County unveils concept for 1.6-mile community park 👨👩👧👦 Residents helped design features and layout 🐾 Trails, playgrounds, and river overlooks planned Share This Story! CRESTVIEW — Okaloosa County officials unveiled conceptual plans Tuesday for a […]
Rotary Club of Destin Expands Public Rescue Tube Program Across Okaloosa County Beaches

“These tubes are already making a difference at Destin beach accesses,” said Rotary project co-chairs Dion Moniz and Wayne Bernheisel. “Now, we are excited to expand this proven program across more parts of Okaloosa County, making our beaches even safer for residents and visitors.”
Destin Council seeks federal help to fix East Pass navigation hazards after boat collisions

Destin officials are pushing for federal and state support to repair and light East Pass navigation markers after recent collisions and near-misses.
Eglin Federal Credit Union Rows for Hope: $50K Raised to Fight Suicide

Eglin Federal Credit Union has donated more than $50,000 over three years to support Bring Hope Now’s suicide prevention programs, raising funds through employee-led initiatives and sponsorship of the annual Dragon Boat Race and Festival in Fort Walton Beach.
New Commander takes the helm over Hurlburt Field’s 1st Special Operations Wing

A new chapter begins at Hurlburt Field — and it’s led by a veteran Air Commando with two decades of experience and a mission to carry the 1st Special Operations Wing into the future.
White-Wilson Medical Center files for Chapter 11 bankruptcy, plans to continue operations

White-Wilson Medical Center — one of Northwest Florida’s oldest healthcare providers — has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy, but leaders say the move is about long-term stability, not closure.