Governor DeSantis Names Hinely to Replace Kelley on Okaloosa School Board
Governor Ron DeSantis appoints Brett Hinely to the Okaloosa County School Board, effective August 2, 2024, following Dr. Diane Kelley’s resignation.
Tattoos and RV Sales on Facebook – The State of Okaloosa’s Local Economy
The local economy in southern Okaloosa County, supported by a stable defense industry and fluctuating tourism, shows mixed signs of recovery. United Fidelity Bank’s Ed Burns highlights unique economic indicators such as the sluggish sales of RVs, boats, and golf clubs, empty sports bars, and a decline in tattoo business, pointing to cautious consumer spending and underlying financial hesitations. Despite these trends, the local market remains optimistic, with signs of future growth as businesses and properties change hands.
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.
Eglin General Fires Group Commander. This Is Who Will Replace Him:
Colonel Jeremiah Hammill has been removed from his position as commander of Eglin’s 96th Test Wing Civil Engineer Group due to a “loss of confidence to lead and maintain good order and discipline,” as announced by Eglin Public Affairs. Brig. Gen. Mark Massaro emphasized the importance of taking care of the unit’s personnel in his decision. Colonel Michelle Sterling will replace Hammill, with a formal assumption of command ceremony taking place this week.
NHS Alumnus Graduates From United States Merchant Marine Academy
Ravis S. Delrie, son of Jason and Carolyn Delrie of Niceville, recently graduated from the United States Merchant Marine Academy (USMMA) at Kings Point, New York. Delrie earned a Bachelor of Science degree, a commission in the U.S. armed forces, and qualified as a Merchant Marine officer. The USMMA is one of the five U.S. federal service academies renowned for its rigorous academic and physical qualifications and requires nominations from Congress members. Delrie received nominations from Senators Marco Rubio, Rick Scott, and Representative Matt Gaetz. He will serve as a Third Mate in the U.S. Merchant Marine and a U.S. Navy Strategic Sealift Officer. The Academy’s commencement featured White House National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan, and this year marked the 50th anniversary of women entering the USMMA.
Niceville Local Will Compete In 2024 Warrior Games
Air Force Tech. Sgt. veteran Philip Anderson has found a renewed sense of purpose and strength through adaptive sports as he competes in the 2024 Warrior Games. After medically retiring in 2021 due to back injuries and PTSD, Anderson discovered adaptive sports through the Air Force Wounded Warrior Program, which played a crucial role in his recovery and reintegration. His journey to the Games is a testament to resilience, determination, and the transformative power of sports.
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.
Okaloosa County Places In Top 10 In State FAST Testing
The Florida Department of Education released the 2023-24 results for the Florida Assessment of Student Thinking (FAST) and End of Course Exams on July 1, 2024. Okaloosa Schools ranked 10th out of 67 districts, with top performances in 5th, 7th, and 8th-grade Reading, 7th and 8th-grade Mathematics, and 8th-grade Science. Superintendent Marcus Chambers praised the dedication of the school community and highlighted the need for ongoing improvement despite some areas where pass rates fell below the state average.
This Small But Mighty Crew Keeps Delivering Hits to the Emerald Coast
As the house lights dimmed, darkness enveloped the audience, only to be dispelled by a dazzling gold sequin backdrop as the opening notes of “Chicago” rang out. The audience at the Mattie Kelly Arts Center was treated to a spectacular performance, thanks to the dedication of Jeannette Shires and her team, who tirelessly bring Broadway’s finest to Niceville.
Accused Mike Ledford Killer Back in Court – With New Attorney
Accused killer of local restauranteur Mike Ledford, Dylan Deschaine, made another appearance in court Wednesday.
