The Ten Most Important Northwest Florida News Stories of 2024

These are the top 10 stories from Mid Bay News of 2024, as determined by your clicks!
Family Finds Cluster Bomb: “I Couldn’t Get Out the Door Fast Enough”

In Niceville, Florida, a family discovered a live Vietnam-era cluster bomblet brought home in a toolbox of scrap metal. A Google search misidentified it as inert, but local authorities and Eglin Air Force Base’s Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) team safely removed the dangerous device. The incident highlights the risks of unexploded ordnance near the Eglin test range and the limitations of relying on Google for safety judgments.
OBITUARY: Major General William Clark Norris

Major General William Clark Norris passed away on November 4, 2024.
This Local Credit Union Has a New Leader – From Niceville!

Eglin Federal Credit Union has appointed Cathie Staton as the new President/CEO, succeeding Jerry Williams after 30 years of service, marking a significant leadership transition for the credit union.
Friday Night Photos: Niceville Takes The Win At Choctaw

Niceville’s football team kept its unbeaten record this past weekend when they defeated the Choctaw Indians in Fort Walton Beach. Check out our gallery of photos from the event!
General Gary Luck -“Father of America’s Joint Force” Dies

Retired Army General Gary Luck, a distinguished military leader and mentor, passed away at 87, with a memorial service to be held on September 19.
Niceville Woman Credits This Chore For Helping Her Reach 104th Birthday.

Lillian Fowler celebrated her 104th birthday at Christ Our Redeemer Catholic Church, reflecting on a life filled with gardening, community involvement, and unwavering spirit.
Five NWFSC Raiders Taken in MLB Draft! Did Your Team Take One?

From Niceville to the big leagues: Five Northwest Florida State College Raiders get their shot at Major League Baseball glory in this year’s draft!
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.
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.