Florida Governor Declares State of Emergency Ahead of Invest 97L

Governor Ron DeSantis has declared a state of emergency for most Florida counties due to Tropical Wave Invest 97L, which is expected to bring significant rainfall and possible flooding. The governor has activated the Florida National Guard and the Florida State Guard and authorized the suspension of tolls on state toll bridges. The storm has a high probability of becoming a named tropical storm or hurricane within the next week and may impact the Florida Gulf Coast.

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.

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.

Mid Bay News

A drone view of the activity on Boggy Bayou before the annual fireworks festival put on every year by the cities of Niceville  and Valparaiso.