Niceville, Freeport, and Crestview Kids Learn Selflessness at This Summer Event

Heat, humidity, and gnats are the three guarantees for a June in Florida. Steve Schutt hopes that as Crosspoint Church’s annual service outreach, Mission Northwest, enters its 14th year, it will continue as the fourth constant for Niceville in June. Schutt, along with other volunteers, will lead 275 children in grades 5-12 in service projects around the Florida Panhandle, helping non-profits and fostering a lifetime commitment to serving others and empathy.
Niceville Public Library Celebrates 50th Anniversary

The Niceville Public Library is marking a significant milestone, celebrating its 50th anniversary. Since opening its doors on June 8, 1974, the library has served as a backbone of the community, dedicated to fostering learning, engagement, and a sense of community among Niceville residents. Sheila Bishop, the Library Director, who has been a pivotal part of this institution for over 40 years, expressed her gratitude and pride, emphasizing the library’s tradition of exceptional customer service and community support. The library is hosting a two-day celebration on June 7 and 8 to commemorate this occasion.
A Catholic School in Niceville? Here’s What We Know:

At the end of the meeting, Jeff Witt invited a crowd of about 150 Catholic adults at 3rd Planet Brewing in Niceville to join him in The Lord’s Prayer, but before he could begin, 100 voices had already started on their own. The gathering, which outgrew its initial side room and moved to the beer garden, aimed to gauge interest in starting a Catholic school in Niceville. Witt, a parishioner at Christ our Redeemer Catholic Church, highlighted the strong local desire for Catholic education, emphasizing the thriving community and the absence of a nearby Catholic school. Witt plans to gather further community input through a poll before making concrete decisions, with a vision of creating a faithful, affordable, and excellent Catholic school in Niceville.
After Two National Incidents in Six Months, Okaloosa Sheriff Race Has A Challenger

Crestview resident and Florida Highway Patrol Sergeant Ron Livingston has announced his candidacy for Okaloosa County Sheriff, challenging incumbent Sheriff Eric Aden. Livingston, with over two decades of experience as a trainer at the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, emphasizes the need for more training for deputies to prevent incidents like the shooting of Senior Airman Roger Fortson. Facing a significant financial disadvantage, Livingston must garner support quickly before the August 20 primary.
NWFSC Proposes Course Fee Changes

While tuition will not change – course fees may see some fluctuation this year.
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.
A Six Figure Pharmacist Salary Just Got More Affordable And Easier to Access for Okaloosa County

With a groundbreaking agreement between Northwest Florida State College (NWFSC) and Florida A&M University (FAMU), high school students in Okaloosa County can now pursue a Doctor of Pharmacy degree while staying local. The partnership allows students to complete two years at NWFSC and then transfer to FAMU’s Crestview Pharmacy Campus, with access to student housing, alleviating housing concerns. Dr. G. Devin Stephenson, NWFSC’s outgoing president, envisions enrolling 30-40 students per class, enhancing the region’s educational opportunities and community impact.
Northwest Florida State College Falls Short in National Championship Game Against Blinn College

Northwest Florida State College’s remarkable baseball season concluded with a 12-5 loss to Blinn College in the NJCAA National Championship game. Despite their efforts and strong hitting, the Raiders couldn’t overcome early mistakes and Blinn’s powerful offense. Standout performances from Cade Sadler, Chase Williams, and Jaquae Stewart highlighted the game, with five Raiders named to the All-Tournament team. The Raiders end their season with a 40-15 record, marking a historic achievement for the program.