College dedicates newly renovated Sikes exhibit
The legacy of Bob Sikes, the legendary politician who served Florida’s District 1 in the U.S. House of Representatives for nearly four decades, is being celebrated with a newly renovated exhibition at Northwest Florida State College’s Robert L.F. Sikes Center in Crestview. Local dignitaries and the public gathered for the dedication of the exhibit, which features artifacts from Sikes’ illustrious career, including campaign memorabilia and a collection of taxidermied raccoons, a nod to his nickname “The He-Coon.” NWFSC President Devin Stephenson and current District 1 Rep. Matt Gaetz highlighted Sikes’ enduring impact on the region and the significance of his contributions.
Bears Watch Runners Finish Eglin Gate to Gate
The annual Eglin Air Force Base Memorial Day race welcomed some unexpected spectators this year: a momma bear and her three cubs, who observed the event from a tree. Despite the bears’ presence, roughly 700 participants completed the 4.4-mile run, organized by Eglin’s Force Support Squadron, which honored fallen service members. The event, initiated 37 years ago by General Gordon Fornell, featured a challenging course and a strong sense of community and remembrance.
AFFORDABLE HOUSING: Could This Move Spell the Beginning of the End of The Okaloosa Housing Crisis?
The Okaloosa County Board of County Commissioners unanimously voted to send a letter to Eglin Air Force Base Commander General Jeffery Geraghty, seeking his support to acquire a 200-acre parcel currently serving as Eglin’s golf course. The county aims to use this land for affordable housing and commercial space in a community with a median home sale price of $450,000. This initiative follows a collaborative meeting in March between local government leaders and the Air Force to discuss potential land acquisitions.
Can You Hear ‘Em? Eglin Roars to Life for Night Flights.
The 58th Fighter Squadron will perform night flying operations over Eglin Air Force Base and surrounding areas on May 20-22 between 8 p.m. and 11 p.m. Night flying is an essential requirement for the 58th Fighter Squadron training operations. However, night operations could mean a couple of evenings littered with the roar of aircraft flying overhead for civilians.
Changes Coming to Eglin Visitor Protocol May 1. Details:
Changes to how you will be able to get on base as a visitor begin the week of May 1. Here’s what you need to know if you are sponsoring someone – or are a guest on base.
Tally Ho, Old Bean! New British/Australian/Canadian Fighter Squadron Stands Up At Eglin AFB
The No. 80 Squadron stood up at Eglin Air Force Base. The Combined Efforts of the United Kingdom, Australia and Canada will move the Commonwealth’s (and the United States’) interests forward.
Reclaimed Water, Lower Costs, Another Step Closer to Reality In East Niceville
The City of Niceville has moved forward with plans to create a purple pipe pathway for reclaimed water, with an agreement signed at their recent council meeting. This agreement involves Okaloosa County’s assistance in installing the system, pending final approvals and permits from Eglin Air Force Base.
Police Chief Announces Speed Enforcement Campaign, Lobbies Council to Fight Eglin About 100% ID Check
Niceville Police are ramping up ticketing efforts with ‘Operation Save the Date’ while expressing concerns about traffic jams due to Eglin Air Force Base’s new 100% ID check policy for visitors.
Boggy Update: The News That Eclipsed the Pun
On this week’s edition of Boggy Update – we talk about, sure, the eclipse – but we also cover local election results, a drug raid in Niceville and more.
Fire in Villa Tasso Claims Life of Dog
firefighters from Walton County Fire Rescue and Eglin Air Force Base Fire & Emergency Services worked together to rescue a person trapped in a burning home. Despite challenging conditions, they managed to reach the victim and provide life-saving assistance.
