Local Hero Recognized: Crestview Names 2026 Citizen of the Year Staff Reports January 20, 2026 1:53 pm Crestview In Brief: Who: Forrest “Joey” Tinklepaugh Jr., City of Crestview, Citizen of the Year Committee What: Mae Reatha Coleman Citizen of the Year Award When: January 12, 2026 Where: Crestview City Council meeting, Crestview, Florida Why: To recognize outstanding community service, charitable work, and civic involvement CRESTVIEW, Fla. — Forrest “Joey” Tinklepaugh Jr. has been named Crestview’s 2026 Mae Reatha Coleman Citizen of the Year, recognizing his lasting impact on the community through service, generosity, and local involvement. The honor was announced Jan. 12 during a ceremony held before the Crestview City Council meeting, where dozens of community members gathered to celebrate Tinklepaugh’s contributions. A longtime Main Street business owner, Tinklepaugh is widely known for supporting local nonprofits, schools, clubs, and community events. His efforts range from sponsoring youth activities to helping families in need, earning him a reputation for kindness and civic leadership. Among his most popular initiatives is the annual Polar Express movie night at the Crestview Community Center, which provides families with a free holiday movie experience complete with hot chocolate and popcorn. He also sponsors the Mr. and Mrs. Claus float in the Main Street Crestview Association’s Christmas Parade, helping bring holiday cheer to thousands of residents across Crestview and surrounding communities. In addition to organizing events, Tinklepaugh creates memorial jewelry and medallions for families who have lost loved ones, offering comfort through meaningful keepsakes. April Rencich, a... Read More

Critical Tax Support Returns to Eglin AFB With Volunteer Drive Staff Reports January 20, 2026 10:06 am Eglin Air Force Base, Hurlburt Field, Military In Brief: Who: Eglin Air Force Base personnel, civilians, retirees, dependents, and IRS-certified volunteers What: Free tax preparation and volunteer recruitment for the 2026 filing season When: Jan. 20 through April 18, 2026 Where: Building 451, North 2nd Street, Eglin Air Force Base Why: To provide accessible tax filing assistance and ensure accurate returns for the base community EGLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. — The Eglin Air Force Base Tax Center has officially reopened for the 2026 tax season, offering free tax preparation and e-filing services to eligible base personnel and their families through mid-April. The Tax Center opened Jan. 20 and will operate through April 18, providing IRS-certified volunteer assistance to active-duty members, civilians, retirees, and dependents. Services include federal and state tax filing, with most refunds issued within 21 days. In addition to serving taxpayers, the Tax Center is actively seeking volunteers to help meet demand during the busy filing season. No prior tax experience is required, and all volunteers will receive training and certification. Participants commit to a four-hour shift once per week between Jan. 20 and April 15. With supervisor approval, the Tax Center also qualifies as an alternate duty location for base personnel. Appointments are available Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays from 8–11 a.m. and 12:30–4:30 p.m. Wednesdays are reserved for walk-in clients with basic tax returns, excluding more complex filings... Read More

DeFuniak Springs Debates the Future of Their Fire Department Steven Saul January 20, 2026 8:11 am DeFuniak Springs, Walton County The City Council of DeFuniak Springs is having difficulty funding the city’s fire department.   But with the costs of maintaining the fire service “in-house” increasing, the city’s projections indicate a city-operated department may become unaffordable.  In his presentation to the City Council, City Manager Koby Townsend noted that the projected cost for the Fire Department in the current year exceeds $1.9 million – most spent on personnel. Equipment, training and facilities. The City Council has been briefed over the last year on the physical condition of the fire station, which city leaders say, based on a recent building inspection, needs significant repair and maintenance. Mayor Pro-Tem Amy Heavilin even commented at the meeting this week that the city’s fire station has a problem with black mold. RELATED: Is this the end for the Valparaiso Fire Department?   Regular maintenance and maintenance of the highest standards is essential for a proficient Insurance Services Office or ISO score. The ISO score is supposed to be an objective score that rates how well a local fire department can serve its community. Scores are between 1 and 10 – and are determined by variables like number of firefighters, resources and abilities the department brings to the table.  Currently, DeFuniak has an ISO score of ‘5’ according to Fire Chief  Ross Sheffield.  In his presentation to the City Council, he added that he is meeting with... Read More

  Planning a visit to the sun kissed shores of Panama City Beach? Get ready to dive into a thriving food scene built on locally owned and operated restaurants, each bringing its own personality and passion to the table. From cozy hidden gems to lively beachfront favorites, these spots are woven into   Read More

BAY COUNTY, Fla. (WMBB) – Panama City residents are invited to weigh in on the future of local parks on Tuesday. The Panama City Parks and Recreation Advisory Committee is hosting its third of four town halls this month. They’re designed to gather community input regarding parks under consideration for potential consolidation. Tomorrow’s meeting is […] Read More