Robert J Guidry Pleaded Guilty to Paying a Bribe. Now, He’s The Top Donor In Okaloosa County 2024 Election Campaigns
Louisiana businessman Robert J ‘Bobby’ Guidry pleaded guilty to bribing a governor for a riverboat gambling license in the 90s. Now, he’s spending money in Okaloosa County Elections. Why?
Multi-Agency drug Force Makes Trafficking Arrest
In a significant operation, the Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office Multi-Agency Drug Task Force, aided by the Criminal Investigations Section, executed a narcotics search warrant at 8540 Highway 189. The search yielded a substantial seizure of illegal drugs, including fentanyl, cocaine, psychedelic mushrooms, and approximately eight pounds of marijuana. Kevin Lee McKinney, 45, has been arrested and charged with multiple drug-related offenses.
Okaloosa County Holds Public Flood Vulnerability Meeting
Okaloosa County, in collaboration with Jacobs Engineering, will host the first public meeting for the Vulnerability Assessment and Adaptation Planning Project on Tuesday, July 30th, from 5:30 to 7 p.m. at the Okaloosa County Administrative Building Training Room. The event is open to all residents interested in learning about future flood mitigation efforts and the potential impacts of flood events on the community.
ALICE In Wonderland: The Hidden Struggle for Survival in Niceville
Luis Torres, a Niceville Walmart employee and father, embodies the struggles of the ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) population, facing challenges with childcare and housing. High childcare costs and restrictive housing options push many working-class families like his to the brink of financial instability. Local leaders, including City Manager David Deitch, are exploring solutions to alleviate these burdens, such as increasing affordable housing inventory and advocating for policy changes to support these families.
Ascension Sacred Heart Emerald Coast Family Birth Place Recognized Nationally
For the fourth year in a row, Ascension Sacred Heart Emerald Coast has earned a place on Newsweek’s list of America’s Best Maternity Care Hospitals at the highest five-ribbon level. Based on nationwide online surveys, medical key performance indicators, and patient satisfaction data, this distinction highlights facilities that excel in providing exceptional care to mothers, newborns, and their families. Sacred Heart’s facilities have also participated in Florida’s first postpartum wristband initiative, renewed their Baby-Friendly designation, and house the only NICU serving Walton and Okaloosa counties. The Sacred Heart health system has also been named one of the top 15 health systems in the country for 2024 by Fortune and PINC AI.
Niceville Alum Named Florida Gator Drum Major!
Carly Crist, a Niceville High School graduate and clarinetist, has been named a drum major for the University of Florida Gator Band, achieving this honor through determination and overcoming personal challenges.
Construction Begins On Photo-luminescent Sidewalk
Okaloosa County officials and local leaders gathered at the entrance of John Beasley Park on Monday, July 8, 2024, to celebrate the commencement of construction for a new multi-use path spanning approximately 4 miles between Brooks Bridge and Marler (Destin) Bridge. This 12-foot-wide path will be constructed on the south side of U.S. Highway 98 and feature photoluminescent stone for nighttime illumination. Funded by tourism revenue and an FDOT grant, the project is set for completion by early 2025.
Slain Airman’s Mother Lays Blame At Okaloosa Sheriff’s Feet
In an emotionally charged NAACP town hall meeting, Chantemekki Fortson delivered a powerful speech condemning Okaloosa County Sheriff Eric Aden’s handling of her son Roger’s fatal shooting by former deputy Eddie Duran. Fortson called for Aden’s defeat in the August primary election, citing a loss of trust and accountability. The town hall, attended by approximately 250 people, also featured updates on the ongoing investigation and discussions on broader issues like racial bias and Christian Nationalism.
Okaloosa School Board Member Resigns to Lead Destin High School
Destin High School welcomes a familiar face as its new principal, Dr. Diane Kelley, a lifelong educator and current school board member. Dr. Kelley, who will officially begin
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.
