Santa Rosa County’s newest school, Soundside High School, took its next big step toward opening in the fall.
On June 9, school officials held a ribbon cutting ceremony to officially mark the completion of the three story school. The final cost of the school, according to Superintendent Dr. Karen Barber, was $132 million and was built on a 34-acre parcel. Approximately $41 million of that came from the local option half-cent sales tax.
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Dean Light challenging incumbent in District 4 commission race
Dean Light has worked in various roles throughout the years.
He served in the U.S. Air Force for 26 years, earning the rank of Senior Master Sergeant, worked as the Facilities and Maintenance Supervisor and later the Environmental, Health and Safety Specialist at Crane Electronics in Fort Walton Beach and currently serves as a helping hand at Pik-Itz Art & Antiques, which he and his wife own.
Now, Light is looking to add another job title to his resume: County Commissioner.
Three things you need to know ahead of Santa Rosa County Commissioners meeting
The Santa Rosa County Commission has a packed agenda for this week, where board members will hear from the public on the renewal of the half-cent sales tax, advocate for improvements to NAS Whiting Field and look to enhance Benny Russell Park and the West Florida Railroad Museum.
Here is what you need to know.
Santa Rosa Schools to serve summer meals to families
Santa Rosa County District Schools has announced the locations where families can get free breakfast and lunch this summer.
Through a partnership with Summer Break Spot, the school district is offering nutritious meals at a time when some families may be facing food insecurity.
Navarre High sends two teams to national drone event
Two teams of Navarre High School students competed in a national drone competition last month, with one team finishing first in one category.
The drone teams are part of the school’s experimental science course. According to Tami McConnell, who teaches the class, Navarre High was the only school in the nation to have two teams competing in the national competition.
Shoutout to the ladies at The Boardwalk Shop
These ladies are the kindest. We stopped for batteries and they didn’t have any to sell. But the kind lady went to the back office and gave us 2 batteries that she had. They also gave us shell finding tips and clues to find the Mermaid Mailbox! These ladies are a fine example of the Navarre community and one of the reasons we love traveling from Pittsburgh, PA to this beautiful place!
Shoutout to Autism Pensacola 2025 Connecting The Pieces Gala
Autism Pensacola’s 19th Annual Connecting the Pieces Gala is Thursday, April 10, 2025, at Sanders Beach-Corrine Jones Community Center. The event features a silent auction, music by the Dharma Beats, a walkabout menu-tasting provided by local chefs and restaurants, signature cocktails and a brief program. All proceeds of the Connecting the Pieces Gala support Autism Pensacola’s outreach efforts to serve children and families affected by autism in the local community.
Shoutout to Deb’s Coffee
Big shoutout to Deb’s Coffee, a fantastic small business with delicious coffee and passionate staff. My husband and I appreciate y’all so much, and the community wouldn’t be the same without you!
Shoutout to Momentum Church Pastor Steven Mendez
Momentum church. Pastor Steven mendez. Our barbershop was blessed by him this past summer! He actually blessed just about every place here in navarre, We love Steven at the Navarre beach barbershop, were blessed to have him as one of our supporters.
Shoutout to Lisa
Lisa helped numerous families in the Navarre area with Christmas, including my own children. I’m a single mom working 2 jobs and doing my best. She helped me put on a decent Christmas. Thankful for her.
Shoutout to Volunteers
Jovana C. wants to express their heartfelt gratitude to the dedicated individual ( man ) who volunteers to cleans the roadsides along 399. Although I don’t know your name, I notice you every morning after my shift, diligently collecting litter with a trash bag. Your efforts truly make a positive impact on our community. Thank you!
Shoutout to Espresso Lane and kind-hearted folks
Espresso Lane, our beloved local coffee spot, goes above and beyond to make Navarre a brighter, friendlier place. For those enjoying the walking and running paths, Espresso Lane provides free, refreshing filtered ice water to keep everyone hydrated, and they even have a water station for our furry friends!
They have also set up a Free Little Library for anyone wanting to grab a book on their stroll.
It’s these small, thoughtful acts that make Navarre such a special community.
A huge thank you to Espresso Lane and the kind-hearted folks who make our town feel like home!
Shoutout to Juana’s Management
Shout out to the management of Juana’s for having a Bands for Bands concert that will help out musicians affected by the recent hurricanes.
Shoutout to the Navarre Community!
Give a shoutout to someone who went above and beyond for you or our community!
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Forgotten Front history lecture highlights British occupation of NWFL

While many associate early America with the 13 colonies, people often forget about the colonies which didn’t revolt.
Both East and West Florida remained loyal to the British during the duration of the war. In West Florida, the British were in charge from 1763 to 1783.
Florida Now
Forgotten Front history lecture highlights British occupation of NWFL
While many associate early America with the 13 colonies, people often forget about the colonies which didn’t revolt.
Both East and West Florida remained loyal to the British during the duration of the war. In West Florida, the British were in charge from 1763 to 1783.
Santa Rosa County Animal Services to host Community Cat Days in June
Santa Rosa County Animal Services will host a series of Community Cat Days throughout June, offering free spay and neuter services for eligible outdoor cats owned by no one and living in Santa Rosa County.
Life in the fast lane: Meet UWF trustee Gordon Sprague
Nicknamed “Flash,” Gulf Breeze resident Gordon Sprague, 88, has always had a penchant for adventure.
Not many people can say they’ve been a racecar driver, an assistant to the owner of the Kansas City Royals, an Air Force mechanic, a top selling international businessman, parks and recreation director for several major American cities and have their name on the Florida State University football coach’s office. But Sprague can.
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