Governor DeSantis Names Hinely to Replace Kelley on Okaloosa School Board

Governor Ron DeSantis appoints Brett Hinely to the Okaloosa County School Board, effective August 2, 2024, following Dr. Diane Kelley’s resignation.
Five NWFSC Raiders Taken in MLB Draft! Did Your Team Take One?

From Niceville to the big leagues: Five Northwest Florida State College Raiders get their shot at Major League Baseball glory in this year’s draft!
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.
Here’s How To Save Hundreds of Thousands of Dollars On A Bigger Home in Niceville:

With Niceville home prices skyrocketing, discover how you can save thousands and transform your living space by renovating your current home
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.
Eagle Scout, LA Rams Long Snapper Alex Ward Delivers Keynote Talk About Value of Scouting

Los Angeles Rams long snapper and Eagle Scout Alex Ward shared how scouting shaped his career and life at a Scouts BSA event in Northwest Florida, where he also had his long-delayed Eagle Scout ceremony.
Niceville Alum Named Florida Gator Drum Major!

Carly Crist, a Niceville High School graduate and clarinetist, has been named a drum major for the University of Florida Gator Band, achieving this honor through determination and overcoming personal challenges.
Florida Man Robs Bank in Flip Flops, Hides Cash in Maserati

A 66-year-old Destin resident, Charles Gallagher, has been arrested for allegedly robbing a Truist Bank on Emerald Coast Parkway using a note to demand cash. Authorities found his black 2017 Maserati with concealed identifiers, along with cash, a surgical mask, and glasses. Gallagher, who has faced financial difficulties since 2017, is held without bond on charges of robbery without a weapon, facing up to 15 years in prison if convicted.
Okaloosa Candidates Converge For Niceville Town Hall

Candidates for School Board, County Commission, Sheriff and more gathered at Niceville High School to get talk to voters a month before elections start.