New Cardiologist Strengthens Walton County’s Growing Heart Care Team
Ascension Sacred Heart Emerald Coast has welcomed cardiologist Darin Busby, MD, to its Miramar Beach practice. Busby specializes in cardiovascular disease and internal medicine, expanding access to heart care in Walton County. His arrival adds to the area’s largest heart care team as local health officials emphasize the need for increased cardiovascular services.
Millions Lost: Niceville Man Sentenced in Federal Investment Fraud Case
A retired Army sergeant from Niceville will spend six years in federal prison after admitting to a multi-million-dollar investment fraud scheme. Federal prosecutors said the case involved wire fraud, mail fraud, money laundering and false tax returns, with victims owed restitution and the government more than $500,000 in taxes.
End of an Era: Dr. Diane Kelley Retires as Destin High Names New Principal
Destin High School has announced a major leadership transition, naming Jill McNamara as principal and Matt Means as assistant principal. Longtime principal Dr. Diane Kelley is retiring after 45 years in education but will remain involved as advisor to the governing board and legislative lobbyist.
Fatal DUI Crash Ends in Conviction Nearly Three Years Later
A jury has convicted Benjamin David Raser of DUI Manslaughter and DUI Causing Serious Bodily Injury in connection with a 2023 Fort Walton Beach crash that killed Demetrius Thomas and left Garrett LeBlanc permanently disabled. Prosecutors say Raser was speeding and had a blood alcohol level more than twice the legal limit.
Santa Rosa Man Sentenced After Gruesome Animal Cruelty Investigation
A Santa Rosa County judge sentenced Gunner Cole Bush to five years in state prison—the maximum penalty allowed—after a jury convicted him of aggravated animal cruelty. Prosecutors said Bush tortured a kitten to death, while investigators also uncovered the remains of two other missing family cats during the investigation.
Don’t Throw It Away Yet: Free Pickup Returns to Fort Walton Beach
Fort Walton Beach residents will have two opportunities to clean up their homes this August through free bulky-item pickup and a one-day tire collection event. The city is encouraging residents to take advantage of the annual programs to safely dispose of unwanted household items and old tires.
Eglin Gives Airmen a Place to Build Better Solutions
Eglin Air Force Base’s Emerald Spark Cell is helping Airmen turn everyday workplace frustrations into innovative solutions that improve efficiency across the Air Force. From cutting fuel sampling times by 75% to redesigning equipment inspections, the program is proving that some of the military’s best ideas come from the people doing the work every day.
After Bertha Passes, Three Sea Turtles Finally Swim Free
Three rehabilitated sea turtles returned to the Gulf of Mexico Friday after Tropical Storm Bertha delayed their release. Gulfarium CARE Center staff released Frida, Ziti and Monroe at James Lee Park following medical treatment for fishing injuries and a dramatic rescue from the rocks at Norriego Point.
Eglin Child Neglect Investigation Results in Federal Guilty Plea
An Ohio woman has pleaded guilty to felony child neglect after a welfare investigation on Eglin Air Force Base led investigators to rescue a child from her home in 2023. Devon Mae Witryk faces up to five years in federal prison, with sentencing scheduled for Sept. 17 in Pensacola.
Engineering Dreams Stay Local with NWFSC’s New UWF Partnership
Northwest Florida State College has received state approval to offer four new engineering transfer degree pathways, allowing students to complete a bachelor’s degree through the University of West Florida without leaving Northwest Florida. The partnership aims to strengthen the region’s engineering workforce while making higher education more affordable.
