Feb 11, 2026
As skilled labor shortages grow, Locklin Tech steps up to fill the gap
The U.S. Construction industry, like many other skilled trade job sectors, is facing an “acute crisis,” according to Ed Brady, CEO of the Home Builders Institute.
In 2026, the construction industry is projected to need approximately 350,000 jobs. A surge in infrastructure projects, AI data facilities and manufacturing construction has driven the demand.
Feb 11, 2026
County installs new signs to keep large trucks off Bagdad bridges
Sit on a front porch facing Forsyth Street long enough and you’ll see the traffic.
Large trucks breezing by, people speeding and the twice-a-day congregation of cars coming and going from Bagdad Elementary School are fixtures on the main drag through this otherwise sleepy community.
Feb 11, 2026
Sidewalk closure at West Spencer Field/South Spencer Field roads
The sidewalks at the intersection of West Spencer Field and South Spencer Field Roads are now closed to all pedestrian traffic for the construction of a roundabout. This is only for the portion of the sidewalks within the project area. Sidewalks past these points remain open for use.
Feb 5, 2026
Jay man charged with 15 counts animal cruelty
A Jay man has been charged with 10 counts of aggravated animal cruelty and five counts of animal cruelty after several animals were seized from his property.
Feb 4, 2026
Navarre man arrested in drug sting allegedly sold drugs to high schoolers
A Navarre man was arrested Feb. 3 during a targeted narcotics operation in Milton.
Damorian Joseph McCarty, 19, is charged with drug possession, burglary, larceny and damaging property with criminal mischief.
Feb 4, 2026
Milton acquires permitting to build, operate new wastewater treatment plant
The City of Milton is moving closer to its goal of constructing a new wastewater treatment facility.
The city announced it has received official permits from the Florida Department of Environmental Protection to construct and operate a new wastewater treatment plant and associated sprayfields.
Feb 4, 2026
Educators get supplies from Little Red School House
Little Red School House, a classroom supply depot, opened Jan. 26 to teachers across Santa Rosa County.
Filled with nearly 20,000 classroom supplies, including pens, pencils, markers, paper, folders and paper towels, the Little Red School House was able to serve 350 educators during this recent opening.
Feb 2, 2026
Precautionary boil water notice for Bagdad-Garcon Point water customers
UPDATE: The precautionary boil water notice has been rescinded. Original: Bagdad-Garcon Point Water System has announced a precautionary boil water notice for its customers along the 6500 and 6600 blocks of Old Bagdad Highway.
Feb 2, 2026
Santa Rosa County Library System marks 20 years in 2026
The Santa Rosa County Library System will mark its 20th anniversary in 2026, with celebrations planned throughout the year.
Feb 2, 2026
Sea turtle center volunteer also an artist, author, white water rafter
Maggie Benham is involved with many things.
From volunteering at the Navarre Beach Sea Turtle Conservation Center (NBSTCC) to instructing people on whitewater rafting to creating art, Benham is a sort of “jack-of-all-trades.” Or rather, a “Jill of all trades.”















