Kristen Shell named Okaloosa County’s next Growth Management Director

Kristen Shell, a veteran planner with over two decades of experience in Northwest Florida, has been unanimously confirmed as Okaloosa County’s new Growth Management Director.
Okaloosa County School Board approves new leadership

Okaloosa County School Board approves new leadership at Elliot Point, Davidson Collin Bestor June 24, 2025 2:18 pm Schools and Education In Brief: 🏫 Laura King promoted to principal at Davidson Middle School after nearly two decades in Okaloosa classrooms. 🌍 Eva Ratley named assistant principal at Elliott Point, bringing global teaching experience and fresh […]
The UWF Argos Football Team’s Northwest Florida Boys in 2025
Do you recognize any of these names on the list from your school?
University of West Florida President Martha Saunders Resigns Amid Political Turmoil

Dr. Martha Saunders, President of the University of West Florida (UWF), announced her resignation on Monday, concluding an eight-year tenure marked by significant institutional achievements and recent political challenges. In a letter addressed to students, faculty, and staff, Saunders stated: “When I returned to the University of West Florida as president, it felt like coming […]
Governor Appoints Zack Smith to UWF Board of Trustees

Governor Ron DeSantis has appointed Pensacola native Zack Smith to the University of West Florida Board of Trustees, providing the board with local legal expertise. Smith serves as Senior Legal Fellow and Manager of the Supreme Court and Appellate Advocacy Program at The Heritage Foundation, an American conservative think tank based in Washington, D.C. He also serves as a […]
Your City’s Christmas Lists For The State Government Are Out Now – Here’s What They Asked For – And If We’re On The Naughty or Nice List.

Local leaders presented over $47 million in funding requests to the legislative delegation. Here’s what your city asked for:
Nihill Taylor to Replace Martin at STEMM Academy

The Okaloosa County School Board has appointed Kimberly Nihill Taylor, current Assistant Principal at Niceville High School, as the new principal of STEMM Academy in Valparaiso. Taylor, a longtime educator with over three decades of experience in the Okaloosa County School District, succeeds Dr. Scheree Martin, who was reassigned following disciplinary issues. Taylor brings a wealth of experience and dedication to her new role, having previously served as a teacher, coach, and administrator in the district.
These Freedom Seekers Made Their Final Stand at the Black Alamo – 50 years before the Civil War!

In the heart of Florida’s Panhandle, a hidden gem lies at Prospect Bluff, where Fort Gadsden stands as a silent witness to a tumultuous past. Once a refuge for escaped enslaved people and Creek Indians, this historic site played a pivotal role during the War of 1812. Today, ongoing archaeological efforts aim to unearth the stories of those who fought for freedom in what some call the “Black Alamo.”