Packed with Love, Ready to Learn

Packed with Love, Ready to Learn Staff Reports June 30, 2025 2:50 pm Okaloosa County, Schools and Education, Walton County The Emerald Coast Children’s Advocacy Centers (ECCAC) have launched their annual Back-to-School Supplies Drive, aiming to give students in Okaloosa and Walton Counties the tools they need to start the school year strong. From July […]
DeSantis Signs Florida Budget, Could Veto $80 Million in Okaloosa and Walton Projects

Florida’s new state budget includes $2 billion in tax cuts but places more than $80 million in local Panhandle projects in jeopardy amid a wave of vetoes by Gov. Ron DeSantis.
Tropical system could develop in Gulf ahead of July 4, Okaloosa officials monitoring

Public safety officials in Okaloosa County are urging residents to stay weather-aware as a tropical disturbance could form offshore during the July 4 holiday.
Walton Wrestles With Tantalizing PGA Tour Gamble

A $30 million gamble? Walton County weighs a high-stakes PGA Tour deal amid budget concerns, tourism shifts, and rising calls for compromise.
Dumpster Fire: Walton Commission Fires Sunday, Launches Personal Attacks

A prayer for unity opened the meeting—but by night’s end, the Walton County Commission chambers erupted in public accusations, personal confrontations, and the ousting of Administrator Stan Sunday.
Destin Considers Legalizing Beach Bonfires

Destin Considers Legalizing Beach Bonfires Collin Bestor June 4, 2025 12:55 pm Destin, News, Uncategorized In Brief: Destin City Council is exploring an ordinance that could legalize beach bonfires on city-owned property. The proposed permit program is modeled after Walton County’s and aims to raise revenue without taxing residents. Key hurdles include determining which beachfront […]
Commissioners Pass Resolution to Counter Overdoses in Walton

Walton County commissioners approved a resolution for “Revive Awareness Day” on June 6, 2025, to promote public training on Naloxone use amid rising opioid overdose concerns.
Grant Helps Kiwanis Deliver Hope to Foster Kids

Grant Helps Kiwanis Deliver Hope to Foster Kids Staff Reports May 26, 2025 8:55 am Uncategorized In Brief: A $3,000 grant from NextEra Energy Foundation will help the Kiwanis Foundation of Niceville-Valparaiso expand its Bags of Hope program. The initiative provides duffel bags with essential items to foster children across four Northwest Florida counties. With […]
Own a Vacation Rental On 30a? Make Sure You’re Not Fined $1000s This Year!

Renting your beach house this summer? If it’s not certified, Walton County could hit you with thousands in fines—find out what you need to do before it’s too late.
Deputy Will May, Others Remembered at Law Enforcement Ceremony

With quiet strength and heartfelt words, the widow of Deputy Will May honored 19 heroes lost in the line of duty — a community remembers, and a promise to never forget is renewed.