Eglin Units Provide Support for Ukrainian F-16s

The 68th Electronic Warfare Squadron at Eglin Air Force Base has successfully integrated advanced EW systems into F-16s being transferred to Ukraine, bolstering its defense against Russian electromagnetic threats.

Motorcycle-Mounted Camera Clears Name of Deputy Arrested for Reckless Driving

All charges against former Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Deputy Dylan Gentry have been dismissed after video evidence disproved allegations of reckless driving, racing, and felony tampering. Gentry, who was terminated from the Sheriff’s Office following his arrest, is now looking to restore his personal and professional reputation.

Eglin Air Force Base Will Host Commander’s Cup Tournament

Eglin Air Force Base will host the USO Commander’s Cup, a prestigious Rocket League tournament, on August 10th at 2:00 p.m. and August 11th at 11:00 a.m. Teams of service members from all six U.S. military branches will compete at the USO Gaming Center, located at 404 Wicker Rd. on the base. The event will be streamed live on the USO Twitch channel, offering an exciting opportunity for at-home viewers to support their favorite teams. A formal RSVP is required by 9:00 a.m. on August 9th.

Law Enforcement Nabs Two In Mobile Meth Lab Caper

A routine traffic stop in Niceville led to the arrest of two individuals and the discovery of an active meth lab inside their vehicle. Both suspects, with extensive criminal histories, face multiple drug-related charges.

Okaloosa County School District Will Pilot Virtual Reality In Classrooms

The Okaloosa County School Board has approved a pilot program to implement a Virtual Reality (VR) curriculum in three schools in collaboration with Prisms of Reality. This initiative aims to enhance the teaching and learning of Math and Science through innovative technology. Prisms of Reality’s Immersive Virtual Reality (IVR) platform engages tactile, kinesthetic, and visual learners, offering real-world problem-solving experiences. While the program aims to bridge learning gaps and ignite interest in STEM subjects, it also raises concerns about increased screen time for students and the long-term effectiveness of VR in maintaining student engagement.

TalkingParents Earns #3 On Top 100 Companies To Work For List

TalkingParents has been honored as one of Florida’s Best Small Companies To Work For, securing a prestigious top 5 position in its inaugural year on the list. This recognition comes from the annual Best Companies To Work For In Florida list, featured in the August issue of Florida Trend magazine. Based on workplace policies, practices, and employee satisfaction, the list ranks 100 companies across small, medium, and large employer categories.

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.