AFFORDABLE HOUSING: Could This Move Spell the Beginning of the End of The Okaloosa Housing Crisis?
The Okaloosa County Board of County Commissioners unanimously voted to send a letter to Eglin Air Force Base Commander General Jeffery Geraghty, seeking his support to acquire a 200-acre parcel currently serving as Eglin’s golf course. The county aims to use this land for affordable housing and commercial space in a community with a median home sale price of $450,000. This initiative follows a collaborative meeting in March between local government leaders and the Air Force to discuss potential land acquisitions.
Post 20 Restaurant Opens In Niceville As Team Recovers From Tragedy
Niceville’s newest sushi restaurant, Post 20, held its soft opening Sunday night, honoring the memory of ‘Sushi Mike’ Ledford, who passed away in February. Co-owner Justin Trotter, alongside friends and family, celebrated the long-awaited dream while paying tribute to Mike with heartfelt stories and a mural by local artist Emily Little. The restaurant opens to the public on May 22nd, amid ongoing legal proceedings for the man accused of Mike’s death.
Hundreds at Hurlburt Gather to Remember AC-130J Gunner Killed By Okaloosa Sheriff’s Deputy
Scores of airmen, civilians, and contractors descended on Hurlburt Monday morning to pay their respects to Senior Airman Roger Fortson in a common-access-card-only event held at the base. Hundreds of airmen attended the ceremony—so many overflow bleachers had to be set out on the flight line. The balance of the 4th Special Operations Squadron, Fortson’s unit, escorted the Fortson family to their seats at the memorial. Colonel Patrick Dierig gave the keynote address, aiming to help heal the airmen of the 4th Special Operations Squadron and beyond. The event was broadcast live so deployed airmen could also watch.
We Got Into An Invite-Only Affordable Housing Summit In Niceville. This Is What We Learned About The Local Housing Crisis:
local government, developers, and industry leaders convened for a housing summit in Okaloosa and Walton Counties. Hosted by OCHIP, WCHIP, and the Emerald Coast Association of Realtors, the summit focused on affordable housing challenges and solutions. Discussions highlighted the impact of housing costs on residents’ quality of life and the collaborative efforts needed to address these issues.
New Recycling Deal Could Cost Niceville More or Less – Depending on Residents
In a recent city council meeting in Niceville, various topics were discussed and approved, ranging from a new recycling agreement with Waste Management to police statistics, upcoming events like the Veterans Day parade, installation of a historical marker, and proclamations recognizing Military Appreciation Month, Professional Municipal Clerk’s Week, and acknowledgment from the State Legislature.”
Niceville FD Battalion Chief Fired, Firefighters Demand Answers
More than 20 Niceville Fire Department firefighters voiced their discontent at the City Council meeting regarding the termination of Battalion Chief JD Curry, highlighting concerns over lack of explanation and impact on department morale.
With Adulthood on the Horizon – Parents of Children With Autism Prepare Non-Profit To Help Adults With Autism Live Well
Parents in Okaloosa County are spearheading the Ground Up Project, a non-profit initiative aimed at building a specialized facility for adults with Autism. This project seeks to provide full-time assistance and a centralized hub for services, addressing the lifelong needs of individuals on the Autism spectrum.”
PAL Soccer Opens Fall Registration – Sign Up Details Here
For three decades, Vietnam War Hero Howard Hill has served in a different role – PAL Soccer League President. The fighter pilot and POW has seen the number of players grow every year—from 800 in the early 90s to more than 1,200 last year. They’ve seen growth every year except a dip of 350 kids during the ‘COVID year’ in 2020.
Activation of New Electronic Warfare Squadron at Eglin Signals New Priorities For Air Force
For the second time in a week – the Air Force has stood up a Electronic Warfare Squadron. The increase in the pace and size of these types of squadrons signals a shift from the Global War on Terror.
Obituary: Dr. David Goetsch, A Pillar of the Niceville Community
Dr. David Goetsch was a pillar of the Niceville and Valparaiso Community.
