After Campaign Rally With Republican Stars In Niceville – Congressman Gaetz Talks Affordable Housing, Rice’s Whales, Other Issues in Okaloosa County.
Congressman Matt Gaetz headlined a Republican rally in Niceville, discussing local and national issues, including affordable housing challenges in Okaloosa County and the impact of Rice’s whales on Eglin Air Force Base testing. The event featured speeches by prominent local and state Republican figures, drawing a crowd of 300 supporters.
Commissioner Calls Out Tax Break: A Race To The Bottom?
Okaloosa County Commissioner Nathan Boyles cast the sole dissenting vote against placing a referendum on the November ballot to extend a tax exemption for qualifying companies. Boyles, who originally supported the measure a decade ago, now argues the tax creates unfair competition, offers minimal benefit, and incurs high compliance costs. Despite his concerns, the referendum was approved, with proponents arguing that the exemption has attracted significant investment and job creation to the county.
Eglin AFB Announces Construction of New Daycare Facility in Crestview. Here’s When It Opens:
In response to the growing childcare needs of military families near Eglin Air Force Base, the Air Force announced plans to build a new child development center (CDC) in Crestview, Florida, slated for completion by 2028. The project is part of a broader effort to expand childcare access, including increasing staffing, restoring facilities, and collaborating with local providers to enhance care options for military families.
Robert J Guidry Pleaded Guilty to Paying a Bribe. Now, He’s The Top Donor In Okaloosa County 2024 Election Campaigns
Louisiana businessman Robert J ‘Bobby’ Guidry pleaded guilty to bribing a governor for a riverboat gambling license in the 90s. Now, he’s spending money in Okaloosa County Elections. Why?
ALICE In Wonderland: The Hidden Struggle for Survival in Niceville
Luis Torres, a Niceville Walmart employee and father, embodies the struggles of the ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) population, facing challenges with childcare and housing. High childcare costs and restrictive housing options push many working-class families like his to the brink of financial instability. Local leaders, including City Manager David Deitch, are exploring solutions to alleviate these burdens, such as increasing affordable housing inventory and advocating for policy changes to support these families.
Okaloosa Superintendent Appointed To FHSAA Board of Directors
Governor Ron DeSantis has appointed Marcus Chambers, the Superintendent of Schools for Okaloosa County, to the Florida High School Athletic Association (FHSAA) Board of Directors. Chambers, with over 26 years in education, has been recognized for his contributions at various levels, including as a teacher, principal, and administrator. This appointment, which awaits confirmation by the Florida Senate, highlights Chambers’ commitment to advancing high school athletics in Florida.
College dedicates newly renovated Sikes exhibit
The legacy of Bob Sikes, the legendary politician who served Florida’s District 1 in the U.S. House of Representatives for nearly four decades, is being celebrated with a newly renovated exhibition at Northwest Florida State College’s Robert L.F. Sikes Center in Crestview. Local dignitaries and the public gathered for the dedication of the exhibit, which features artifacts from Sikes’ illustrious career, including campaign memorabilia and a collection of taxidermied raccoons, a nod to his nickname “The He-Coon.” NWFSC President Devin Stephenson and current District 1 Rep. Matt Gaetz highlighted Sikes’ enduring impact on the region and the significance of his contributions.
Parents: ‘Okaloosa STEMM Principal Broke The Law.’ Now, They Say They Want Justice for Their Son With Autism.
Okaloosa STEMM Academy, lauded as one of Florida’s top middle schools, faces scrutiny from a family who claims their son, José, experienced harassment under the administration of Principal Dr. Scheree Martin. Despite José’s high academic performance, his parents allege Martin’s disciplinary actions targeted their son due to his autism and ADD, leading them to withdraw him from the school. Their ongoing battle highlights concerns about the school’s handling of students with special needs and has prompted investigations by both the Okaloosa County School District and the Florida Department of Education.
Crestview Woman Fights Uphill Battle Against Sickle Cell In Florida
Allison Morris, a caregiver to her daughter Samariah, who battles Sickle Cell disease, founded the non-profit “We Reign” to advocate for resources, awareness, and support. Samariah, a vibrant dancer, faces regular pain crises exacerbated by limited local infrastructure. The organization aims to educate, fund research, and assist caregivers in managing the challenges of the disease.
Niceville, Freeport, and Crestview Kids Learn Selflessness at This Summer Event
Heat, humidity, and gnats are the three guarantees for a June in Florida. Steve Schutt hopes that as Crosspoint Church’s annual service outreach, Mission Northwest, enters its 14th year, it will continue as the fourth constant for Niceville in June. Schutt, along with other volunteers, will lead 275 children in grades 5-12 in service projects around the Florida Panhandle, helping non-profits and fostering a lifetime commitment to serving others and empathy.
