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.
Ascension Sacred Heart Emerald Coast Earns 5-Star Ranking
Ascension Sacred Heart Emerald Coast has achieved a ‘5-star rating’ in the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) 2024 Overall Hospital Quality Star Ratings. This prestigious rating reflects the hospital’s commitment to high-quality care, patient safety, and excellent patient experience. Ascension Hospitals surpassed the national average in 2024 with an improved average star rating of 3.48, up from 3.27 in 2023. Trey Abshier, President and CEO of Sacred Heart Emerald Coast, attributes this achievement to the dedication of their caregivers and associates.
Okaloosa County Wins Appeal Against Timberview Helicopters
Okaloosa County won an appeal in a lawsuit filed by Timberview Helicopters regarding the termination of their agreement.
Eglin AFB Announces Construction of New Daycare Facility in Crestview. Here’s When It Opens:
In response to the growing childcare needs of military families near Eglin Air Force Base, the Air Force announced plans to build a new child development center (CDC) in Crestview, Florida, slated for completion by 2028. The project is part of a broader effort to expand childcare access, including increasing staffing, restoring facilities, and collaborating with local providers to enhance care options for military families.
Medical Professionals Warn of Effects of Excessive Heat During Summer Months
With significant threats of excessive heat looming over Florida in the coming days, local hospitals are preparing for a potential influx of patients suffering from heat exhaustion and life-threatening heat stroke. The primary cause of concern is the high humidity levels, which, when combined with rising air temperatures, create dangerously hot conditions. “We tend to set aside the dangers of heat when we don’t hear about extreme or record-breaking temperatures, but with high humidity, the heat index can sneak up on people and have just as big an impact,” explained Dr. Erik Petersen, a board-certified emergency medicine physician at HCA Florida Twin Cities Hospital.
Florida Governor Announces 2024 Back to School Sales Tax Holiday
Get ready to save big this school year! Governor Ron DeSantis announces the Back-to-School Sales Tax Holiday—don’t miss out on incredible savings on everything your student needs, from notebooks to laptops!
