SS United States Arrives in Mobile, Prepares for Artificial Reef Deployment

The SS United States has arrived in Mobile, Alabama, after a 1,800-mile tow from Philadelphia, marking the start of preparations for its transformation into the world’s largest artificial reef off Florida’s Gulf Coast, alongside a planned museum and visitor center.
Here’s How Walton and Okaloosa Ranked for Child Well Being:

How do Walton and Okaloosa counties compare in child well-being? The latest Florida Policy Institute rankings reveal strengths—and surprising challenges.
FWC to Host Virtual Meeting on Potential Black Bear Hunting in Florida

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) is hosting a virtual meeting on March 13 to gather public input on potential options for regulated black bear hunting in the state.
Niceville Senior Center to Host Free ‘Passport to Health’ Event

The Niceville Senior Center Foundation will hold its 5th annual “Passport to Health” event on March 20, offering free health and wellness resources for adults 55 and older. The event will feature over 30 organizations, educational materials, and door prizes, including a $300 grand prize.
Sun Belt Basketball Tournament Returns to Pensacola

The Sun Belt Conference Men’s and Women’s Basketball Championships return to Pensacola from March 4-10, featuring 14 teams competing for a spot in the NCAA tournament and associated family-friendly events.
Outlaw Biker Implicated in Attack With Explosive at Fort Walton Beach Jimmy Johns

Gregory Simonds, an alleged Outlaws Motorcycle Club member, was arrested in Fort Walton Beach after allegedly throwing an explosive device into a Jimmy John’s following a confrontation with members of a rival biker gang.
Northwest Florida HVAC Company Announces Termination of Employee After Social Media Firestorm Over Homophobic Comments

A viral TikTok controversy has put a Northwest Florida HVAC company in crisis mode—here’s how the owner is responding to the flood of backlash.
Range Road 213 now considered Closed Area

A section of Range Road 213 at Eglin Air Force Base is now a Closed Area, restricting public and recreational traffic to ensure security and safety. Only authorized personnel, including military and utility workers, may use the road. Enforcement measures include increased patrols, new signage, and potential fines for violations.
Okaloosa County Man Sentenced to 25 Years for Sexual Battery

A Crestview man, Edgar Enrique Nunez, has been sentenced to 25 years in state prison followed by 20 years of probation after pleading guilty to sexually abusing a minor. Multiple agencies, including the Crestview Police Department and the Air Force Office of Special Investigations, investigated the case.
Restaurant Paradis’ Annual Wine Dinner Raises $17,500 for Local Charity

Restaurant Paradis’ ninth annual Prohibition Repeal Wine Dinner in Rosemary Beach raised $17,500 for the Destin Charity Wine Auction Foundation, supporting children’s charities in Northwest Florida.