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.
Tattoos and RV Sales on Facebook – The State of Okaloosa’s Local Economy
The local economy in southern Okaloosa County, supported by a stable defense industry and fluctuating tourism, shows mixed signs of recovery. United Fidelity Bank’s Ed Burns highlights unique economic indicators such as the sluggish sales of RVs, boats, and golf clubs, empty sports bars, and a decline in tattoo business, pointing to cautious consumer spending and underlying financial hesitations. Despite these trends, the local market remains optimistic, with signs of future growth as businesses and properties change hands.
Eglin General Fires Group Commander. This Is Who Will Replace Him:
Colonel Jeremiah Hammill has been removed from his position as commander of Eglin’s 96th Test Wing Civil Engineer Group due to a “loss of confidence to lead and maintain good order and discipline,” as announced by Eglin Public Affairs. Brig. Gen. Mark Massaro emphasized the importance of taking care of the unit’s personnel in his decision. Colonel Michelle Sterling will replace Hammill, with a formal assumption of command ceremony taking place this week.
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.
350th Spectrum Warfare Wing Welcomes New Commander
The 350th Spectrum Warfare Wing celebrated the arrival of its new commander during a change of command ceremony on July 9. Col. Josh Koslov, who has led the wing since 2022, handed over command to Col. Larry Fenner Jr. The ceremony was presided over by Maj. Gen. Case Cunningham highlighted the strategic importance of the wing in high-end warfighting. Under Koslov’s leadership, the wing saw significant developments, including the formation of new units and the execution of its first internal exercise, Rapid Raven 24-1. With extensive experience in electronic warfare, Col. Fenner is set to lead the wing to new heights.
Eglin Air Force Base Welcomes New Commander
Eglin Air Force Base welcomed its new commander, Brigadier General Mark A. Massaro, in a ceremony held at the Eglin Climatic Hangar. Amidst dignitaries and airmen, Brigadier General Jeffrey Geraghty was relieved of his duties and will move on to serve at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base.
Here are the best spots to watch Niceville 4th of July Fireworks on Boggy Bayou!
Here are the top five spots to check out for a wonderful, firework-filled evening on Boggy Bayou in Niceville or Valparaiso
Niceville Man Arrested, Accused of Sending Classified Eglin Documents Illegally
Paul J. Freeman, a 68-year-old resident of Niceville, has been indicted on charges of unauthorized possession and transmission of classified national defense information. The indictment alleges that Freeman shared sensitive information about U.S. Air Force aircraft and weapons with unauthorized individuals on multiple occasions between November 2020 and March 2021. If convicted, Freeman faces up to ten years in prison for each of the nine counts.
Slain Airman’s Mother Lays Blame At Okaloosa Sheriff’s Feet
In an emotionally charged NAACP town hall meeting, Chantemekki Fortson delivered a powerful speech condemning Okaloosa County Sheriff Eric Aden’s handling of her son Roger’s fatal shooting by former deputy Eddie Duran. Fortson called for Aden’s defeat in the August primary election, citing a loss of trust and accountability. The town hall, attended by approximately 250 people, also featured updates on the ongoing investigation and discussions on broader issues like racial bias and Christian Nationalism.
Memorial Ceremony Marks 28 Years Since Khobar Towers Bombing
On the night of June 25, 1996, a terrorist attack on the Khobar Towers in Dharan, Saudi Arabia, claimed the lives of 19 Airmen and injured over 400 U.S. and international military and civilian members. Today, over 200 attendees, including members of the 33rd Fighter Wing and the local community, gathered to honor the men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice 28 years ago. The memorial event featured a guest speaker, a traditional wreath-laying ceremony, the recitation of names, and the playing of “Taps.”
