Niceville Good Neighbor: Josh Wervey is unapologetically himself
Marine veteran Josh Wervey has been named the latest recipient of the Niceville Good Neighbor Award. As the Niceville Valparaiso Chamber of Commerce’s events and membership manager, Wervey connects local businesses while balancing his most important role—being a single father dedicated to giving his son every opportunity to succeed.
DEVELOPING: Child airlifted to Pensacola after terrifying pit bull mauling
A child was airlifted after an unprovoked dog attack in Valparaiso. Police say a neighbor restrained the dog until officers arrived.
Plew plants a prophetic mustard seed for Eglin AFB
On June 14, 1937, the Valparaiso Gunnery Range was established with a small post of 14 enlisted men and a single officer, marking the beginning of what would become the largest industry in Okaloosa County. Local business leader James Plew leased the original land to ensure government money bolstered the flagging local economy. The base quickly grew and shifted to a more lucrative test-and-evaluation mission, a transition encouraged by Congressman Bob Sikes. Sikes intentionally drove significant construction, ensuring the base’s indispensability and making the cost of shrinking the military presence after World War II too painful for the Department of War. Plew’s initial investment proved highly effective, as the Air Force Base accounted for nearly 70 cents of every dollar made in Okaloosa County businesses in 2025.
Maney explains his painful vote on controversial property tax proposal
State Rep. Patt Maney warns that a proposed property tax amendment could cause significant revenue losses for local governments, including fire districts and cities in Okaloosa County. He cautions that the measure lacks a clear funding replacement plan and could unfairly shift the tax burden onto renters and small businesses.
Morgan victorious in three-way race for Valparaiso Mayor
Joe Morgan is Valparaiso’s next mayor. He returns to the dais after a ten year hiatus.
Valparaiso Mayor Candidate Interview: Chris Wasdin
Valparaiso Commissioner Chris Wasdin gives her argument for why she should be the city’s next mayor before election day, March 10.
Valparaiso could make THIS MUCH money every day from a new speed camera near Eglin:
So, if everyone decided to ignore the school zone tickets and keeps driving the way they are now – Valparaiso alone would earn an additional $78,000 per day in revenue – based on Blue Line’s five-day study.
Resignations, a fire department reshuffle, and one employee on the chopping block in Valparaiso this month
VALPARAISO GOVERNMENT: A commissioner resigns, Niceville swoops in to administer the fire department (again), and one employee may be fired after allegations he went on a profanity-laced rant against a homeowner surface at the monthly commission meeting.
Valparaiso could add speed cameras in front of Eglin Air Force Base. Here’s what’s happening now:
Valparaiso discuss moving forward with a plan to install school zone speed cameras on John Sims Parkway near Eglin Air Force Base.
Valpraiso Fires Fire Chief After Secret Session
Valparaiso Fire Chief David Lanier is out after a tumultuous five-month tenure, with an EEOC complaint from a reinstated lieutenant ultimately leading to the commission’s unanimous decision to terminate him.
