Resignations, a fire department reshuffle, and one employee on the chopping block in Valparaiso this month Christopher Saul January 12, 2026 9:37 pm Valparaiso Commissioner Chris Wasdin announced her resignation to run for Valparaiso Mayor at the city’s regular business meeting Monday Night.    She announced that the commission met for the first time at its new city complex, the old bank building at 23 John Sims Parkway, which is still missing its elevator car and has a couple of other punch list items.     Commissioners also decided to hire the City of Niceville’s Fire Department administrative team to oversee Valparaiso’s department while they decide whether to look for a new fire chief.    Finally, longtime County Administrator Carl Scott’s job may be at risk after a homeowner alleged he went on a profanity-laced rant against her in public at City Hall, referring to a lien on her home. Election season arrives in Valparaiso. City Commissioner Chris Wasdin announced her intention to resign on March 17, after the next meeting, to run for Mayor of the city.    A law, passed in 2018, requires anyone who holds a local or state office to resign their seat to campaign for another local or state office.    Wasdin is in a four-way contest against incumbent Mayor Brent Smith, Senior Center Board Chairman Patrick Palmer, and former City Commissioner Joe Morgan.    Smith has served as Mayor since 2018, when he won election on his third attempt after the death of longtime Valparaiso... Read More

Breakthrough Protection: Dexter’s Law Makes Florida Safer for Pets Staff Reports January 12, 2026 5:27 pm Government, Pets, Politics and Elections, State Government In Brief: Who: Florida lawmakers, Florida Department of Law Enforcement, animal welfare advocates, Dexter the shelter dog What: Passed Dexter’s Law (HB 255), establishing an online animal abuser registry and harsher penalties When: Effective January 1, 2026 Where: Florida, statewide, searchable online via FDLE Why: To prevent animal abuse, protect shelters and communities, and deter future offenders TALLAHASSEE, FL — Florida is stepping up its protections for animals with the full implementation of Dexter’s Law (House Bill 255), a landmark measure that creates the state’s first public, online animal abuser database and strengthens penalties for aggravated animal cruelty. The law officially took full effect on January 1, 2026, giving residents, shelters, and animal welfare organizations a powerful new tool to help prevent future abuse. Named in honor of Dexter — a 4‑year‑old bulldog mix whose brutal killing in 2024 drew national outrage — the law was signed by Governor Ron DeSantis on May 28, 2025, as part of a broader push to enhance animal welfare protections across Florida. “Across Florida, we have seen horrifying instances of animal cruelty that demand a stronger response,” Governor DeSantis said at the bill signing. “I was proud to sign Dexter’s Law today. Florida stands by man’s best friend.” Beginning January 1, 2026, the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) launched the state’s first searchable database of individuals convicted of aggravated animal cruelty, making the information... Read More

The Chart-Topping Christian Artist Led Worship Both Backstage And In The Arena At The Professional Bull Riders Event “While you may be known for the ride, God’s lookin’ at you and goin’, ‘I want to see what you do with the room,’” said Christian artist Brandon Lake to a group of cowboys at Madison Square […] More Country Music Nation  Read More

PenAir Credit Union Elevates Tomorrow Through Powerful Student Scholarships Staff Reports January 12, 2026 2:16 pm Scholarships, Schools and Education In Brief: Who: PenAir Credit Union and graduating high school seniors What: 2026 Scholarship Program When: Applications open January 2026; deadline March 25, 2026 Where: Online at penair.org/Scholarships Why: To support education, leadership, and community growth PENSACOLA, Fla. — PenAir Credit Union has opened applications for its 2026 Scholarship Program, continuing a long-standing commitment to supporting local students as they pursue higher education and career training. The program, now in its 16th year, is open to graduating high school seniors who plan to attend an accredited college, university, community college, or technical or vocational school. Applications are available online beginning January 2026 and must be submitted by March 25, 2026, through penair.org/Scholarships. PenAir officials say the scholarship reflects the credit union’s mission to invest in future leaders and strengthen the communities it serves. “Every year, we see the incredible potential of our youth, and we’re honored to help them take the next step toward their dreams,” said Casey Brueske, Community Education Manager at PenAir Credit Union. “Our scholarship program is a testament to our commitment to service, respect, and Communerosity®, empowering students to become leaders and changemakers.” Since its inception, the PenAir Scholarship Program has awarded more than $280,000 to nearly 110 students, helping offset tuition and education-related expenses. Former scholarship recipient Mallory Bell-Rivera, now in her fourth year at the University of West Florida, said the award provided more... Read More

Rapid Police Action Ends Scary School Lockdown After Gunfire Report Staff Reports January 12, 2026 1:38 pm Crime, Fort Walton Beach, Okaloosa County, Public Safety, Schools and Education In Brief: Who: Fort Walton Beach Police Department and Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office What: Reports of shots fired and suspect arrest When: January 12, 2026, around 10:05 a.m. Where: Lovejoy Road and Burnette Street, near Okaloosa Academy Charter School Why: To locate and apprehend a fleeing suspect and ensure public safety FORT WALTON BEACH, Fla. — A reported shots-fired incident near a Fort Walton Beach school prompted a rapid law enforcement response and a brief lockdown Monday morning, officials confirmed. According to the Fort Walton Beach Police Department, officers received multiple calls around 10:05 a.m. on January 12, 2026, reporting gunfire in the area of Lovejoy Road and Burnette Street. Out of an abundance of caution, Okaloosa Academy Charter School was placed on lockdown within moments of the initial calls. Through a coordinated effort between Fort Walton Beach Police officers and Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office deputies, the suspect was quickly located, tracked, and taken into custody while attempting to flee the area. Authorities say the arrest was made without incident, and no injuries were reported. Police emphasized that there is no ongoing threat to the public. In a statement, the Fort Walton Beach Police Department thanked the Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office for its assistance, highlighting the swift coordination and teamwork that led to the safe resolution of the incident. The investigation remains... Read More

Cold Nights Spark Urgent Shelter Openings Across Okaloosa County Staff Reports January 12, 2026 1:14 pm Charities and Nonprofits, Okaloosa County, Public Safety In Brief: Who: Okaloosa County officials and partner shelters serving homeless individuals and families What: Cold weather shelter openings When: Monday night, January 12, with returns Tuesday morning Where: Fort Walton Beach, Niceville, and Crestview Why: To provide safe, warm shelter during dangerously cold conditions As overnight temperatures dip across the Florida Panhandle, Okaloosa County officials announced the opening of multiple cold-weather shelters on Monday night to provide safe and warm accommodations for individuals and families experiencing homelessness. According to the Okaloosa County Board of County Commissioners, several strategic partner shelters opened the evening of Monday, January 12, offering overnight refuge in both South and North Okaloosa County. Officials emphasized that opening times and eligibility requirements vary by location. In South County, One Hopeful Place in Fort Walton Beach opened its doors at 4 p.m. The shelter, located at 1564 N. Beal Extension, serves adults 18 years and older. Bus transportation is provided, with pickup beginning at 3:30 p.m. at 205 Shell Avenue. One trip will be made. Participants may bring backpacks and essential items, though wagons, bicycles, and suitcases are not permitted on the bus. Secure bike storage will be available at the pickup site. Return transportation to Shell Avenue is scheduled for 8 a.m. Tuesday, January 13, when participants may retrieve their belongings. Also in South County, Generations Church in Niceville opened Monday night, welcoming... Read More

 [[{“value”:” The editorial team at Ocean Reef Vacation Rentals & Real Estate have put together a GRAYT venue guide with map to the 30A Songwriters Festival! The 30A Songwriters Festival isn’t just a weekend of great music—it’s a moving target. Dozens of venues. Miles of coastline. Multiple vibes unfolding at the same time. Knowing where to be is just as important as knowing who you want to hear. “}]]  SoWal.com  Read More

Maren Morris Stepped Away From Country Music In 2023 Maren Morris put the country music community on blast in a new video, calling the genre “very politicized” and “dicey.” This isn’t Morris’ first time speaking out against country music. In 2023, the “My Church” singer told the Los Angeles Times that she felt “very distanced” […] More Country Music Nation  Read More

FREEPORT, Fla. (WMBB) – The 2026 District Duals at Freeport High School showcased some of the area’s top wrestlers, but one school brought up a pair of eighth-grade girls to compete in lieu of the boys. North Bay Haven’s Addison Neufeld and Nova Estrada, regular practice partners on the Buccaneers’ girls wrestling team, stepped in […] Read More

LYNN HAVEN, Fla. (WMBB) – The Lynn Haven Police Department is seeking the public’s help in searching for a missing man. According to a news release, Douglas Shelton, 81, was last seen on Saturday, January 10, around 4 p.m., wearing black shorts and a graphic tee with a TACP logo on it. Lynn Haven Police […] Read More