Governor Ron DeSantis Vetoes Probation Bill
Governor Ron DeSantis has vetoed House Bill 1241, which aimed to reform how Florida handles probation violations by modifying instead of revoking probation for second-time offenders. In his veto letter, DeSantis argued that the bill would provide undue leniency to those who failed to meet probation conditions once. This decision comes alongside vetoes of other bills, including those related to graduate school admissions, stormwater management fees, and driving regulations on multi-lane roads.
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.”
Okaloosa Island Begins Construction On Multi Use Pathway
On Monday, July 8, 2024, Okaloosa County officials will host a groundbreaking ceremony at John Beasley Park to mark the beginning of construction on a new multi-use path. The event will occur at 7 a.m. at 1550 Miracle Strip Parkway SE, Okaloosa Island. The new path will stretch approximately four miles between the Brooks Bridge and Marler Bridge on Okaloosa Island, providing a safe and scenic route for cyclists and pedestrians.
Okaloosa Sheriff’s Deputies Arrest Man For Destin Shooting
A violent confrontation at the Sea Glass Apartments on Commons Drive West left one man paralyzed after a heated altercation on Monday evening. Around 7:35 PM, an argument between two men escalated when Timothy Rettinger pursued the Victim in a black Buick Enclave, ultimately shooting him multiple times and causing severe injuries.
Kedroski Named Interim President at Northwest Florida State College
Northwest Florida State College has appointed Dr. Cristie Kedroski as Interim President, effective July 6, 2024. With over 20 years of experience in higher education and community outreach, Dr. Kedroski has been pivotal in driving the College’s enrollment growth and academic innovation. The Board of Trustees unanimously selected Dr. Kedroski, confident in her ability to lead the College during this transitional period.
Northwest Florida State, Tech Startup Announce Tutoring Partnership
Northwest Florida State College (NWFSC) has partnered with Florida-based peer tutoring platform Knack to offer free, on-demand tutoring to all students starting Fall 2024. This initiative aims to enhance student retention and success through high-quality tutoring and professional growth opportunities. “Our commitment to student success is unwavering; this additional resource demonstrates our support for all students who attend NWFSC,” said Dr. Devin Stephenson, President of NWFSC.
Summer in South Walton Starts With Two Shark Attacks
On Friday, June 7th, two shark attacks occurred just 4 miles apart along the beaches of South Walton County, injuring three people. The first attack happened near WaterSound Beach around 1:20 p.m., where a 45-year-old woman swimming past the first sandbar sustained severe injuries resulting in the amputation of her arm. An hour and a half later, two teenage girls standing in waist-deep water at Seacrest Beach were attacked, with one suffering severe injuries to her leg and hand. Both critically injured victims were airlifted to local trauma centers. These incidents mark the third and fourth shark attacks in Walton County in recent years.
Niceville Public Library Celebrates 50th Anniversary
The Niceville Public Library is marking a significant milestone, celebrating its 50th anniversary. Since opening its doors on June 8, 1974, the library has served as a backbone of the community, dedicated to fostering learning, engagement, and a sense of community among Niceville residents. Sheila Bishop, the Library Director, who has been a pivotal part of this institution for over 40 years, expressed her gratitude and pride, emphasizing the library’s tradition of exceptional customer service and community support. The library is hosting a two-day celebration on June 7 and 8 to commemorate this occasion.
NWFSC Proposes Course Fee Changes
While tuition will not change – course fees may see some fluctuation this year.
Ruckel Middle School Golf Coach Qualifies For U.S. Senior Open Championship
Jon Olson, a dedicated teacher and coach at Ruckel Middle School, has qualified for the 2024 U.S. Senior Open Championship. Competing at the Wynlakes Golf & Country Club in Montgomery, Alabama, Olson secured his spot after a playoff. His achievement is celebrated by the Okaloosa County School District, with Superintendent Marcus Chambers and Principal Joe Jannazo praising his dedication both on the golf course and in the classroom.
