[email protected] The voice of Niceville, Bluewater Bay and Valparaiso since 1992 (850) 678-1080 Police Blotter, TThhee BBaayy BBeeaaccoonn page A-6 8 Pages, 1 Section, 3 Inserts Wednesday, January 2, 2019 50¢

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The , p The BBaayy BBeeaaccoonn age A-4 8 Pages, 1 Section, 6 Inserts Wednesday, January 10, 2018 50¢ 5 seek Valp. mayoralty No contest for 2 commission seats Beacon Staff Patrick W. Palmer. appear on the ballot. The cur- Five candidates have quali- The five-day qualifying peri- rent holders of the two commis- fied to run in the March 13 elec- od to appear on the ballot for a sion posts are mayoral candi- tion for mayor of Valparaiso, the four-year term as mayor ended dates Strong and Browning. Heyward Strong Tom Browning Joe Morgan Brent Smith Patrick W. Palmer most to seek the post in recent Friday. Commanding attention, then, memory. Meantime, two people quali- is the five-way contest for the name will be on the ballot for city.” A 20-year Air Force veter- those changes and to look at They are the incumbent, fied for the two city commission mayoralty held for 53 years by the mayoral post. an, Browning moved back to where we are and where we are Heyward Strong, city commis- seats at stake in the election. Bruce Arnold until his death at Browning, 51, whose four- Valparaiso in 2010. He works in going. “ sioner Tom Browning, former Since there was no contest for 87 in February 2017. year term as a city commission- IT support on Eglin Air Force Palmer, 34, was born and city commissioner Joe Morgan, the two seats, candidates Strong, a city commissioner er is drawing to a close, said he Base. raised in Valparaiso. He owns former city commissioner Brent Edward Crosby and Jay Denney for 36 years, has served as was running for mayor “because Said Browning: “I want to be an online company selling emer- Smith, and political newcomer will take office following the mayor since Arnold’s death, but I grew up here and I have that a part of this community’s election without having to this will be the first time his distinct connection with the changes, to be the leader of Please see MAYORALTY, page A-2 Faulted for subpar data safeguards, NWFSC says it has improved A frosty weekend By Mike Griffith Beacon Correspondent Five years after hackers invaded its computers, stealing the personal information of perhaps 280,000 employees and students, Northwest Florida State College still had much to do to make its data secure, according to state auditors. According to a report released Dec. 19, the State of Florida Auditor General conducted an “Information Technology Operational Audit” of computer and information processing systems at the college during May through August, 2017. The audit found that college “IT security con- trols related to user authentication, user account management, and logging and monitoring need improvement to ensure the confidentiality, integri- ty, and availability of college data and IT resources.” In a summary of the report, auditors stated, “This operational audit focused on evaluating selected information technology (IT) controls applicable to the Ellucian Banner Enterprise Resource Planning (Banner ERP) system and the Ellucian Luminis Platform software (portal). The audit “disclosed areas in which improvements in Northwest Florida State College controls and oper- ational processes are needed.” “We recommend that the College management improve certain security controls related to user authentication, user account management, and log- ging and monitoring to ensure the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of College data and IT resources,” the report stated. The Niceville-based community college responded that it has made the improvements. The objectives of the audit, said the report, were: —“To evaluate the effectiveness of selected IT controls in achieving managements control objec- tives in the categories of compliance with control-

Please see NWFSC, page A-2

Area waterways and parks were quieter than usual last weekend due to chilly temperatures, which formed a thin layer of ice over at least one Rocky Bayou inlet. Still, several dozen shoppers browsed new vendors at the farmer's market at Palm Plaza. Others strolled the boardwalk at Turkey Creek, Niceville. Many families with young basketball players could be found in the gym at Crosspoint Church as the youth basketball season got underway. The Twin Cities Donut Shop, a local landmark for decades, awaited removal after closing for good on Dec. 31. The owners The Bay Beacon this week is pleased hope to reopen at a new location. Beacon photos by Paula Mims ‘We bring happiness in’ Bands of volunteers visit nursing homes By Veronica Quesenberry them and visit them throughout out gifts to old and new veterans. Beacon Correspondent the year.” Alongside them was the activi- ties coordinator for Westwood, to present a look back at the top This year marks the 13th His own visits started on Valentine’s Day, then continued Joshua Sutherland, and the exec- anniversary of a heart-warming utive director of Westwood, tradition. on Memorial Day and Veterans Day. Then he started a visitation Karen Rigdon. In 2005, a local Adopt a program for the Christmas sea- “A nursing home and a rehab Veteran program was established son as well. center at Christmas time is by Allen Ajaye, a retired Air sometimes not the happiest place Force master sergeant. Every Ajaye visited his first home, now called the Westwood to be,” Rigdon said. “So, what year he organizes by email a list we do is we bring the happiness of retirement, assisted living and Nursing and Rehabilitation stories and photos of 2018, as Center, Fort Walton Beach. He in.” rehabilitation facilities from Gulf Breeze to DeFuniak enjoyed talking to widows and According to Sutherland, he Springs that house veterans and veterans about what they created a list of veterans at widows of veterans. Then he remembered, and he said World Westwood for Ajaye, and the sends out a call to the communi- War II was a popular topic. visit corresponded with the cen- ty with a click of his mouse. Ajaye was back at Westwood ter’s holiday party. The residents for the annual Christmas party at Westwood have become “You don’t have to have a gift almost Sutherland’s family. in hand to go visit them,” Ajaye this past Dec. 22. The room presented in a week-by-week review smelled of cranberry sauce and Every year his goal is to make Beacon photo by Veronica Quesenberry said. “If everything works out (volunteers) will actually adopt pumpkin pie, and he was there Please see HAPPINESS, page A-8 Allen Aijaye, pictured at left, with some of the other volunteers he coordinates to visit to a host of Page 1. with a different squadron to pass of nursing homes and senior centers throughout three counties, especially during holidays.

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The , pa ge BBaayy BBeeaaccoonn A-6 us into your homes in 2018. 10 Pages, 1 Section, 3 Inserts Wednesday, January 17, 2018 50¢ Niceville hikes trash rates By Mike Griffith with the City. Our contract pro- The city allows such increas- Beacon Correspondent vides for an adjustment based es under its contract with The Niceville City Council on the percentage change in the Houston-based Waste Thank you, advertisers, for your has enacted price increases of Consumer Price Index (CPI) for Management, an exclusive 12 months ending Oct. 31, franchise for which the city Prices for hauling away between 2 percent and 3.2 per- garbage and recyclables cent in garbage-collection rates. 2017, applied to each pricing council has not obtained com- will rise between 2 and 3.2 In a letter to the city council, category. The residential adjust- petitive bids since closing its percent in Niceville. Waste Management Inc. man- ment proposed is a 2.05% own money-losing sanitation Beacon photo ager Pamela Dukas wrote, increase and the commercial department in 1993. “Please accept this letter as our adjustment proposed is a 3.22% As a result of the price hikes, notification of a residential and increase based on this calcula- the residential rate for once- support in the past year. commercial price increase as tion.” weekly garbage pickup will go provided for in our agreement The higher prices took effect from $5.58 to $5.69 a month. Jan. 1. Please see TRASH, page A-3

Valparaiso Fire marshal named one eyes BWB blaze

of states By Jacob Fuller by the fire, which Bennett said Correspondent started on the balcony of one safest cities The North Bay Fire District apartment and spread from there. has handed over the investigation Firefighters’ heat-sensitive cam- By Mike Griffith of a fire at an apartment eras were still detecting We look forward to continuing Beacon Correspondent complex to the state fire high heat in the building Valparaiso’s police chief credits marshal. after the blaze was sub- teamwork between residents and Firefighters from dued, keeping them police for the city’s designation as North Bay, east busy until nearly 4:30 one of the safest municipalities in Niceville and Destin a.m. the next day. Florida. responded to the fire at “From a fire chief’s Valparaiso was recently ranked Golf Villas at 1940 Bluewater standpoint, I wasn’t leaving as the Sunshine State’s ninth-safest Blvd. on the evening of Jan. 3. until we knew for certain it was city by SafeWise, a “community- North Bay Fire Chief Byron (fully extinguished), because of to serve you in 2019. focused security organization Bennett said arson was not the amount of people that were in committed to increasing safety involved, and that the fire appears there,” Bennett said. education, awareness, and pre- to have been caused by accident. To ensure that the fire was out, paredness,” based in Salt Lake No one was injured. firefighters had to do a thorough City, Utah. “Right now, it is undetermined inspection, which included The designation, according to the exact cause, but we have a removing part of the ceiling, SafeWise, was based on pretty good idea,” Bennett said Bennett said. Jan. 9. Valparaiso’s “commitment to the Please see BLAZE, page A-2 safety and security of its residents” Four apartments were affected as evidenced by an exceptionally low crime rate. Police Chief Joe Hart said the high safety rating for Valparaiso is partly because the city police department is “a community-ori- ented organization. Without the eyes and ears of our community —The staff of the Bay Beacon: members helping us, we couldn’t do anything.” Hart told the Bay Beacon last week that he is proud of his police officers for the work they do, and also proud of Valparaiso residents for their contributions to the safety of their community. Valparaiso, he Stephen Kent, Sara Kent, said, is a city where “neighbors look out for neighbors,” and where Valparaiso Police Chief Joe Hart said the citys exceptionally low crime rate stems in part from a partnership between the police department and community members who are its Please see VALPARAISO, page A-3 No one was hurt when four apartments were damaged by fire “eyes and ears.” Beacon photo by Mike Griffith earlier this month at the Golf Villas in Bluewater Bay. Beacon photo Bunni Farnham, Cheryle Valentine, Two will assume commission seats in March Beacon Staff way race for mayor. back through this service some of tinue servicing the Valparaiso mayor’s post in the There will be two new faces on Denney, 56, said he and his what they have done for us and community.” March 13 election the Valparaiso City Commission wife, Teresa, first bought a home our military personnel over the He retired from the Air Force are Patrick Palmer this spring. in Valparaiso in 2011 and became years here,” Denney said. Crosby, in 1979 as a master sergeant, after and former city 77, served as a Valparaiso city commissioners Joe Jay Denney and Edward full-time residents in 2014. 21 years. commissioner from 1986 to 1989. Morgan and Brent Crosby will take seats on the five- A retired Air Force colonel, Crosby and Denney will serve Karon Dey, and Katie Maricle. Denney is a pilot for Southwest He has also served on the city four-year terms. The seats they Smith. member commission after quali- library board, the city planning fying for the municipal-election Airlines. will fill are currently held by Commissioners board, and the city cable-TV advi- ballot without opposition. “I am thankful for the opportu- Heyward Strong and Tom and the mayor sory board. serve unpaid in the The March 13 municipal elec- nity to serve our citizens of Browning, both of whom are run- Crosby said he wishes “to con- nonpartisan offices. tion will, however, feature a five- Valparaiso and to hopefully give ning for mayor. Also seeking the Edward Crosby Jay Denney Correspondents: Mike Griffith, On to the Olympics Speed skater to compete in Korea By Mike Griffith were Air Force members sta- Beacon Correspondent tioned at Hurlburt Field. The city of Valparaiso now She grew up in Crestview, has a direct connection to the where her parents, after com- 2018 Olympics. Miapleting their Air Force service, Paula Mims and Cynthia Richardson. Manganello, daughter ofopened Mia’s Italian Restaurant, Speed skater Mia Manganello, Dominic and Karen far left, daughter of restaura- Manganello, who own teurs Dominic and Karen Dominic’s Pizzeria on John Manganello, pictured with an Sims Parkway, earlier this Olympic flag in their Valparaiso pizzeria, will com- month achieved a place on the pete next month in the 2018 U.S. Olympic team, and will Winter Olympics. compete in two speed skating Beacon photo by Mike Griffith races during the Winter Olympic Games next month in South Korea. Karen and Dominic say they are naturally proud of their daughter’s accomplishments. Mia was born at Eglin Air Force Base in 1989, while her parents Please see OLYMPICS, page A-3

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, , , , The pa The pa The pa The pa The ge ge ge ge A-3 A-3 A-4 BBaayy BBeeaaccoonn A-4 BBaayy BBeeaaccoonn BBaayy BBeeaaccoonn BBaayy BBeeaaccoonn 8 Pages, 1 Section, 4 Inserts Wednesday, January 24, 2018 50¢ 6 Pages, 1 Section, 3 Inserts Wednesday, January 31, 2018 50¢ 8 Pages, 1 Section, 5 Inserts Wednesday, February 7, 2018 50¢ 8 Pages, 1 Section, 4 Inserts Wednesday, February 14, 2018 50¢ District regroups College sets $25M overhaul Northwest Arrests soar in Niceville Florida State Prescribed Blue, a Belgian By Mike Griffith Niceville and Fort Walton Beach Randall White, who had recom- Malinois, earned Beacon Correspondent College plans a after resignation campuses. mended during the board’s Police training and drug dog credited his Niceville In other business during the November 2017 meeting that the $25 million Northwest Florida State blazes Police By Mike Griffith 8, Schools Superintendent Mary Okaloosa County School overhaul to Beacon Staff field training, Popwell said, only when his acute sense of College plans a $25 million over- meeting, the trustees discussed college enter into a “performance- Department Beacon Correspondent Beth Jackson told board mem- Board Chairman Lamar White improve the The dog, Blue, a Belgian smell detects the odor of certain haul of its aging physical plant to their recent evaluations of college based” contract with Johnson reliability and benefit Arrests by the Niceville badge as a drug- Okaloosa County School bers that Smith’s position is cur- makes a point at a board meet- improve reliability and energy President Devin Stephenson and Controls, a company which energy efficien- Police Department jumped 25 Malinois, now 3 years old, drugs. sniffing and Board members and school dis- rently being filled by Marcus ing in Niceville last week. He efficiency. amendments to his employment already has such a contract with cy of its physi- percent last year, to 834, accord- joined the police force in early If a police officer reasonably tracking dog. trict administrators discussed Chambers, who is also the school is flanked by board members He works with The college’s board of trustees contract with the college. the state of Florida for renovating cal plant. Eglin ing to department figures. 2017 and completed his on-the- suspects a car may hold illegal how to find a permanent succes- district’s assistant superintendent Melissa Thrush and Dewey authorized the work, to be per- In addition, they were briefed and maintaining college facilities Pictured, the The sharp increase, to the job training in June. His police drugs during a lawful traffic Officer Phillip Destin. Ritcheson. They sor for Staci Smith, who resigned of curriculum and instruction. formed by Johnson Controls, dur- regarding recent successes at the throughout the state. college
s glass- highest number in at least 16 partner is Officer Phillip stop, then a search warrant is Beacon photo by Mike Griffith forests are credited with as assistant superintendent of Before choosing a new per- ing a meeting on the main campus college and high school, and plans White had recommended that walled student years, stemmed in large part Ritcheson, 37, who is skilled in generally not required to use a By Mike Griffith a large share of human resources after her arrest manent assistant superintendent in Niceville. The trustees also for the future. NWFSC join other colleges in the services build- from the success of a new drug- recognizing when Bluespecially trained dog for an out- for human resources, said ing. Beacon Correspondent arrests last year. on charges of failing to report approved the borrowing of about The board gave approval to a state contract, and borrow $22.2 sniffing dog and his human part- “alerts”—sits down and refuses door “free-air sniff” around the Beacon photo Beacon photo Eglin Air Force Base conduct- suspected child abuse. Jackson, it will probably be nec- proposal from college Vice million from Bank of America for to continue—when deployed to vehicle. If the dog alerts, then $22 million to finance the work, ed an 88-acre prescribed burn ner, according to Police Chief by Mike Griffith At a nonvoting school board essary to make modifications to President of Administration sniff the outside of a suspected police gain probable cause to which will be performed at the Thursday at Eglin’s White Point David Popwell. Also contribut- workshop held in Niceville Feb. Please see COLLEGE, page A-2 ing were increases in efficiency drug site, typically a motor vehi- conduct an immediate conven- Please see DISTRICT, page A-3 recreation area, just east of cle. The dog is supposed to alert Please see ARRESTS, page A-2 Bluewater Bay. Such burns are as police recruits completed done periodically, to prevent wild- Bond denied City awards fires by removing accumulated A beautiful day on the bayou shrubbery, fallen branches and For art
s sake Citing expenses, other debris that could become Heading to in attacks $20,000 fuel for uncontrolled wildfires. The carefully planned burn was Niceville begins announced several days in advance region finals on wife, son in grants so nearby civilian property owners and others would not be alarmed. Beacon Staff As predicted by Eglin weather charging for A 76-year-old Niceville man remains jailed on forecasts, smoke from the pre- attempted-murder charges following attacks last week to groups scribed burn drifted out over on his sleeping wife and disabled son. By Mike Griffith Choctawhatchee Bay, allowing the reclaimed water Sheriff’s deputies arrested Judson Wood, of 1911 Beacon Correspondent smoke to dissipate before reaching Beacon Staff use water was first made avail- Benton Ave., Niceville, on two counts of attempted The Niceville City Council has approved inhabited areas. premeditated murder in the early-morning Feb. 6 “Burn boss” Keith Hawk, of The city of Niceville plans to able to residential and commer- $20,000 in donations to 11 nonprofit organizations. cial customers in 2000, the city assaults. The council acted Jan. 9, four months after hear- Jackson Guard, Eglin’s environ- start charging residential users of reclaimed water $22 a month has not charged end users, Sheriff’s investigators said Wood set upon his wife, ing annual requests form 11 such groups for contri- mental and forestry management Sharron, 68, and his son James, 49, as both slept in organization, maintained radio to cover costs of the effluent- according to Corbin. “It actual- butions of city tax money toward their public mis- ly costs the city about $140,000 their beds in the home he shared sions. communication with his burn crew disposal program. “When you receive your per year to maintain the sys- with them. They were struck The council waited until this month before as he patrolled the area in a truck. several times in the head with a Using a mixture of gasoline April bill, please note the sepa- tem,” he told the homeowners in awarding the grants to give time for city staff to his letter last week. metal mallet. Deputies recov- determine how much was available in the 2017-18 and diesel fuel dispensed from rate billing item for reclaimed water,” stated a letter last week Because the system is not ered a bloody mallet from a municipal budget. Requests totaled $29,100. hand-held canisters, Jackson nightstand next to Mrs. Wood. Guard personnel ignited a series of from Niceville City Manager metered at the residential level, A list of the organizations and the amounts utility customers apparently will Judson Wood was arrested requested and approved is shown below. small fires throughout an 88-acre Lannie Corbin to more than 350 homeowners in the Swift Creek be billed for the service whether after a roommate alerted author- —Chamber of Commerce: $6,000 requested; Please see FORESTS, page A-2 they use it or not. ities. $5,000 approved. subdivision. Since opening in 2010, the neighborhood has Reclaimed-water distribution According to a sheriff’s —Economic Development Council: $5,000 Jackson Guard burn crew arrest report, Judson Wood told been supplied irrigation water expenses include repairs, main- Judson Wood requested; $5,000 approved. members set a series of small from highly purified effluent tenance of the storage pond and investigators he had been think- —Bridgeway Center: $1,100 requested; $1,000 fires on 88 acres of the White pumps situated on the Eglin golf ing about “putting James out of his misery” for more approved. Point recreation area. Such produced by the Niceville- Valparaiso sewage treatment course, power to the pumps, than a month. Judson said that his own health was —Okaloosa-Walton Childcare Services (Early prescribed burns are conduct- declining, that his wheelchair-bound son’s need for ed periodically on the giant plant. tests of groundwater required by Learning Coalition): $1,500 requested; $1,000 state environmental rules, and continuous care was becoming too difficult, and that approved. Eglin Air Force Base reserva- “Most of you realize we tion to foster the health of the would eventually have to start tests of backflow valves protect- he did not think anyone else would provide it. —Shelter House Inc.: $1,500 requested; $1,000 longleaf pine ecosystem and ing the potable water system, Judson said he did not know why he attacked his approved. charging for this service,” the reduce the buildup of dead city letter added. “We have according to Corbin. wife with a mallet he had taken from his porch, —Northwest Florida Symphony: $1,000 vegetation that might feed “The city can no longer sim- according to the report. requested; $900 approved. completed our analysis of the potentially catastrophic wild- operational costs that will be ply absorb these costs,” the city The two victims were rushed to Fort Walton Beach —Children’s Advocacy Center: $3,000 request- fires. Beacon photos by Mike Griffifth passed on to only customers of manager stated. Medical Center in critical condition, suffering from ed; $1,500 approved. In the early 1990s, the facial fractures. Physicians said Sharron Wood will —Sharing & Caring: $5,000 requested; $2,000 the re-use water system. Since the reclaimed, or re- need extensive facial reconstruction, according to a approved. Please see WATER, page A-2 sheriff’s report. —Okaloosa Head Start: $1,500 requested; $900 Lawmakers would put all of Florida on the same clock Bond denied, Judson Wood remained in Okaloosa approved. County Jail yesterday. He is scheduled to enter a plea legislative session in Tallahassee is edge of Alabama, which is also on —Heritage Museum: $2,000 requested; $800 March 21. A trial is tentatively set for May 7. approved. Good-bye to Central time? scheduled to end March 9. Should Central time, and is the source of the bill be enacted, further much of the region’s tourist trade. —Guardian Ad Litem Foundation: requested; Beacon Staff clocks in the state which gives res- $1,500; $900 approved. idents an extra hour of daylight at approval by Congress would be If the changes sought by the The Florida Legislature is con- required to institute year-round Steube bill are achieved, sidering a measure asking federal the beginning of the day. The bill’s effect would be felt daylight-saving time. Approval of Floridians would see the perma- approval to shift the state’s the U.S. Department ofnent shift of an hour of daylight Panhandle region to the Eastern even more so in the Panhandle due to the region’s proposed shift from Transportation would be needed to from morning to evening between time zone and to put all of Florida expand the U.S. Eastern time zone the first Sunday in November and on year-round daylight-saving the Central time zone into the Eastern one. Here, the measure Sen. Annette Sen. Greg Sen. Debbie to include the entire state. the second Sunday in March, time. Nine of Florida’s 67 counties, when nights are longer and stan- Senate Bill 858, sponsored by would delay daybreak by two Taddeo Stuebe Mayfield hours November to March, as including Okaloosa and Walton, dard time is in effect. In three south-Florida legislators, Tourism, whose vice chair, Sen. Debbie Mayfield, R-Melbourne, measured by the clock. lie west of the Apalachicola River, Northwest Florida, the effect would set in motion a process to George Gainer, R-Panama City, and Annette Taddeo, D-Miami. A reception for an exhibit of paintings by Emil Holzhauer, a German-born painter who moved to the U.S. in the early 20th The bill was cleared by the in the Central time zone, where the would be magnified by an addi- abolish the current practice of represents a district that includes None of them responded to clocks run an hour behind those of tional shift to Eastern time, with century, was held at the Mattie Kelly Arts Center, Niceville, on Saturday. Pictured top to bottom, left to right: People enjoyed Beacon photos by Paula Mims Senate Committee on Community observing standard time from the Niceville-Valparaiso area. requests for comment before press looking around look around the gallery exhibiting Holzhauer's works. Christine Bosworth and her husband donated two The first warm weekend of the year brought many residents out of doors to enjoy the sunshine. Boaters could be found on the bayou, and water- Affairs on Jan. 26. It is now is the rest of the state, in the Eastern residents of the region losing two The city of Niceville plans to charge November to March. This would The bill is sponsored by sena- time. time zone. The part of Florida on hours of morning sun to the Holzhauer paintings to the arts centers collection. Mrs. Bosworth grew up in Valparaiso and lived next door to Holzhauer Before a big home crowd at Twin Oaks Feb. 7, the Niceville High School boys soccer team defeated Chiles (Tallahassee) in an 8A regional semifinal front parks were filled with people happy to be outside after many days of cold weather. Left: Flagpole at Lions Park, Niceville. Right, top to bot- under consideration by the after he moved to the area in the 1950s. Local author Audrey Edwards, who wrote a book about Holzhauer, “The Portrait of residents of the Swift Creek subdivi- The Heritage Museum of Northwest Florida end the traditional “fall back” and tors Greg Stuebe, R-Sarasota, The annual two-month regular Central time borders the southern match, 1-0, on a thrilling overtime goal by Brendan Ernsberger. Two nights earlier, the Eagles beat Leon (Tallahassee) in a quarterfinal match, also at Okaloosa County Sheriff s Office tom: Maddie Stubblefield, Addie Spence and Rominey Wilmer, students at Rocky Bayou Christian Academy, soaked up the sun Sunday after- Committee on Commerce and an Artist,” talks to a visitor. A Holzhauer work depicts a church in DeFuniak Springs. Tom Stanton, Miramar Beach, studies sion, among others, $22 a month for A Niceville man, 76, is charged with two counts will receive $800 of the $20,000 in grants “spring ahead” tradition for all Please see TIME, page A-2 home, 1-0. Pictured, Niceville's Tim Albert heads the ball against Leon. Tonight Niceville will take on Fletcher (Neptune Beach) at Twin Oaks at 7 p.m. noon. Jessica Lange and her dog Aiyanne, who moved here in August, explored Lions Park. Christina Cook showed her niece, Kaitlynn Leggett, the displayed works. The exhibition will be open through March 2. Beacon photos by Paula Mims reclaimed water service beginning in of attempted murder in attacks on his sleeping awarded by the Niceville City Council to 11 for the regional crown. Separately, the Niceville girls soccer team also reached the regional final, which was scheduled against Bartram Trail at Twin the bayou. Kaitlynn, who has just moved here from Arizona, had fun splashing in the water and playing in the sand. Others took to the bayou April. Beacon photos wife and son in the home the three shared at organizations. Beacon photo Oaks yesterday evening, Tuesday, after press time. More sports, A-5. Beacon photo by Paula Mims for water sports. 1911 Benton Ave. Cold didn’t Valparaiso commission Weekend College pitches growth Growing airport is hiring Once in By Mike Griffith tions specialists are needed to report to the commission, “VPS discourage diversions Beacon Correspondent keep up with increasing activity at recorded 915,650 passengers, an a blue, the Destin Fort Walton Beach increase of 18% over 2015, the drops school measure Area residents took part in a number of in training programs The Okaloosa County bridge use outdoor activities last weekend. The By Jacob Fuller with a $22 million, three-part on technology and advanced Commission agreed to add two Airport (VPS). most in its 60-year history. CY17 By Mike Griffith was put off at the request of reluctant to do anything to the boardwalk leading from John Sims Beacon Correspondent expansion project called the manufacturing to be located in airport communications special- “In 2016,” wrote McVay in a Please see AIRPORT, page A-3 By Mike Griffith Beacon Correspondent Commissioner Kay Hamilton, detriment of the public school blood moon Breakfast Parkway out over the northern shore of After more than a year of Triumph Trifecta. Crestview, hospitality and culi- ists to the county airports depart- Beacon Correspondent The Valparaiso Citywho said her daughter is a pub- system.” The second full moon of Boggy Bayou gave early-morning bird- planning, Northwest Florida The proposals call for a nary training centers in Destin ment. During the Jan. 18 meeting Commission quietly dropped lic school teacher, and, “I am ers a fine vantage point from which to January passed through for a cause During their Feb. 6 meeting, Please see VALPARAISO, page A-2 State College is moving forward Center for Excellence focused and at the college’s Fort Walton Earth's shadow, creating a red- of the Mid-Bay Bridge the issue of school choice dur- observe wildlife. Niceville High School Twin Cities Elks Lodge #2747 served a commissioners also scheduled a Beach campus, and a 10-acre tinted lunar eclipse, not long Authority governing board, ing a meeting Jan. 8. students Tommy Eggers, 15, Paige Kelly, public breakfast earlier this month to fund “simulated city” in DeFuniak before dawn on Jan. 31. The hearing to consider changes to MBBA Executive Director Van At a Dec. 11 meeting, com- 14, and Jayden Reece, 18, waved signs scholarships for needy children attend- Springs for training in such eclipse coincided with a “blue ground transportation policies at Fuller said that recent cold missioners had tabled a pro- along State Road 20 in Bluewater Bay to ing the Elks Youth Camp in June in moon”—a second full moon in the Destin-Fort Walton Beach weather apparently had little promote a pancake breakfast and car work as installing gas lines and Umatilla. Another benefit breakfast will posed resolution proclaiming a calendar month. To boot, it Airport, approved the use of spe- effect on the volume of traffic wash benefitting the school s track and fiber optic networking. be held March 3 at the Elks Lodge, 224 “School Choice Week” in was the second “super moon” cial assessments to supplement ad field teams. Clear weather on Saturday Funding for much of the Seminole Ave., Valparaiso. For a dona- over the toll bridge or the Valparaiso. The proposed reso- of the year, with its disc brought people out to Niceville s Turkey project remains to be found. tion of $8, diners will be offered biscuits valorem property taxes for certain Spence Parkway toll road that lution stated, in part: appearing a bit larger than nor- Creek Park to enjoy the sunshine, stroll NWFSC President Devin and gravy, pancakes (blueberry and road paving and other utility proj- connects it with State Road 85, “All children in the city of mal due to the orbiting moons along the boardwalk, and enjoy the Stephenson told the Okaloosa plain), sausage, omelets and eggs to ects, approved a streamlined fund- north of Niceville. Toll-paying business remains healthy on the 3.5-mile Mid-Bay Valparaiso should have access to closer proximity to Earth. The sights and sounds of Northwest Florida County Board of order, fruit, and beverages. Here, Elks ing system for constructing the PJ Fuller said that earlier this Bridge over Choctawhatchee Bay. Beacon photo by Mike Griffitha the highest quality education rare confluence of lunar events in its natural state. The Northwest Florida Commissioners at the board’s member Sylvia Kleppinger prepares bis- Adams Road near Crestview, and month, temperatures in the possible.” State College campus was the site of a is called a “super blue blood although Fuller said he had any time. He attributed the suc- Jan. 30 meeting that the cuits. Courtesy photo approved some change orders for Niceville area fell as low as “Educational variety not only motorcycle training class. moon eclipse.” Its image was heard reports of jackknifed cess in keeping the 25-year-old Niceville-headquartered college the project to construct a new those in Boston, among other helps to diversify our economy, Beacon photos by Mike Griffith captured from Lions Park, trucks and other serious acci- span open to its design, as well is not yet formally seeking Niceville, by local photogra- County courthouse in Crestview. traditionally colder northern but also enhances the vibrancy dents in the Atlanta area. as to ice-preventing pretreat- county funding for the projects. pher Dave Halupowski. According to county Human climes. of our community.” Fuller said that despite the ment applied by the Florida Northwest Florida State College President Devin Stephenson The expansion will be a public- Photo by Dave Halupowski Resources Director GinNeal Two more communications workers will be added at Destin-Fort Nevertheless, bridge traffic Last month, when the resolu- recent cold waves, the Mid-Bay The Valparaiso City Commission dropped consideration of a explains to county officials the schools $22-million vocational- McVay, the two new communica- Walton Beach Airport to help deal with a 28-percent increase in remained uninterrupted locally, Please see BRIDGE, page A-2 tion was first presented, a vote passenger traffic. Beacon photo Bridge had not been closed at resolution endorsing school choice. Beacon photo training initiative. Beacon photo by Jacob Fuller Please see COLLEGE, page A-2

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, , The , The pa The pa The The pa ge ge ge A A A Bay Beacon -3 Bay Beacon -4 Bay Beacon Bay Beacon -5 Bay Beacon Bay Beacon Bay BeacoNewcomern Guide Bay Beacon Inside 8 Pages, 1 Section, 4 Inserts Wednesday, February 21, 2018 50¢ 8 Pages, 1 Section, 4 Inserts Wednesday, February 28, 2018 50¢ 32 Pages, 2 Sections, 5 Inserts Wednesday, March 7, 2018 8 Pages, 1 Section, 4 Inserts Wednesday, March 14, 2018 50¢ Storm basin’s failure Teacher earns Rink to retire after 11 years ‘The days fly by’

Part of a dirt dike about seven as local orchestra’s director Heather Phillips, Okaloosa feet high enclosing a big county honor Beacon Staff NFSO concert May 4. He and his New boss at Niceville post office muddies waterways County s Teacher of the Year, La Traviata
set Jeffrey Rink will conduct “La retention pond near Walmart, wife, Jennifer, will move to New By Chrissie Kirila of the Year. County-level nomi- says she tries to “see things When Jeffrey Rink steps onto for Saturday, A-6. Traviata” Saturday night at the By Jacob Fuller 2017. The Maple family fell in Maple, 50, is no novice at his job. Beacon Staff artificial basin that is supposed to A wall of water carried away a Niceville, was washed away Beacon Correspondent nees will be reviewed by a state Hampshire. Beacon Correspondent love with the town, and Maple In 1988, Maple was 20 years old by heavy rains the night of through the kids eyes and see the podium to conduct “La Mattie Kelly Arts Center, his Massachusetts native Bob Thousands of gallons of corral storm runoff from the 15-foot-wide section of the dike A fourth grade teacher of committee. Five finalists will be where they are coming from.” Traviata” Saturday night, it will be When Rink moved from final opera production as For new postmaster Bob soon started looking for jobs in with a recently earned associate’s Maple is Niceville s new post- Walmart shopping center blew and its rock-lined spillway, rush- Feb. 12, spilling mud and silt those goals have been met,” he muddy rainwater gushed into into area waterways. Bluewater Elementary School, announced in May and the state She teaches fourth grade at to lead his last operatic perform- Boston to the Niceville-Valparaiso music director of the Maple, the top job at the Niceville the area. degree. When he started consid- master. Bluewater Elementary School. said. Niceville waterways after a big out the night of Monday, Feb. 12, ing into a brook that feeds Swift Photo by Shawn Beauchamp Heather Phillips, learned Feb. 15 Teacher of the Year will be ance as music director of the area 11 years ago to take up the Northwest Florida Symphony post office recently coming open "For this office to open up at ering his career options, his Beacon photo by Jacob Fuller retention pond failed following according to an official of Creek, which empties into Swift that she had been selected as the announced in July. Beacon photo by Chrissie Kirila Northwest Florida Symphony NFSO baton, he did so, in his The Rink-directed, fully staged Orchestra. seemed too good to just be coin- the time that we were looking and father, a career firefighter, sug- heavy rains last week. Valparaiso Realty, which owns Bayou, an arm of Rocky Bayou. Okaloosa County School District The Teacher of the Year Orchestra. words, “to tackle the challenge of production of “La Traviata,” one cidence. the area we were looking, it gested he look into civil service State environmental authori- the property and maintains the The next morning, mud could Teacher of the Year. The school’s Program “recognizes and honors Rink, who has conducted the building an organization, improv- of the world’s most beloved Maple, a lifelong resident of seemed like it was a match that opportunities. ties sent an inspector to view the retention basin. About an acre in be seen staining parts of Rocky principal, Amy Klugh, described the contributions of outstanding Niceville-based NFSO since ing its financial standing and mak- operas, will be performed at 7:30 Massachusetts, brought his wife was kind of meant to be," Maple "I took the fire and police damage. area, the basin was enclosed by a Bayou off the east end of 23rd the honor as “well-deserved.” classroom teachers who have 2007, recently announced his ing a difference in a community.” p.m. Saturday at the Mattie Kelly and children to visit relatives who said. exams, and the postal exam. (The Part of a dirt wall enclosing an dike about seven feet in height. Please see BASIN, page A-2 Phillips, 38, is the school disr- demonstrated a superior capacity departure, scheduled after a final “I would like to think that all of Arts Center, Niceville. In addition live in Niceville in February Though new to Niceville, U.S. Postal Service) was the first trict’s nominee for the Florida to inspire a love of learning in stu- Please see RINK, page A-5 Please see POST OFFICE, page A-2 Department of Education Teacher Please see TEACHER, page A-3 College Panel mulls Hack fears A beautiful weekend to be outdoors Commission T-pier replacement nears completion proposals for Play ball! Can spring be far behind? hobble computer eyes mental Florida security Constitution county By Mike Griffith health issues Beacon Correspondent utilities faulted By Mike Griffith People from throughout Beacon Correspondent Beacon Staff Northwest Florida and beyond Okaloosa County commissioners discussed payments State auditors faulted packed a meeting room at the Florida’s recent school shooting and a proposal for a Beacon Staff Northwest Florida State College University of Florida in Pensacola forensic mental health center to be located in The Okaloosa County Water in the areas of computer security, last week to address members of Okaloosa County, during the county commission’s and Sewer Department said it Sunshine Law compliance, text- the Florida Constitution Revision Feb. 20 meeting in Shalimar. shut down its online bill-pay book affordability procedures, Commission (CRC), a 37-mem- Also during the meeting, commissioners dis- service to investigate “a possi- and purchasing procedures. ber body appointed to review pro- cussed rates and policies for ridesharing at the Destin ble security breach.” In findings issued last week posals for changes to the state Fort Walton Beach Airport, vacation of part of 18th “Several local banks have from an operational audit of 2016 Constitution and decide which Street in Niceville, and sidewalk projects. alerted the county to unautho- records and procedures, the should be placed on the Nov. 6 The commission honored the memory of four rized charges on cards used to Florida Auditor General also ballot for verdicts by voters. county sheriff’s deputies slain in the line of duty in pay county water bills,” the found that the college overreport- The 15-member CRC, the past decade. department said in a statement. ed classroom time in certain appointed by the governor, leg- Commissioner Carolyn Ketchel said that in light “These reports have raised a courses. Auditors also said islative leaders, and the state’s of the Feb. 14 shooting rampage at a Broward concern that the online payment NWFSC didn’t adequately docu- chief justice, convenes every 20 County high school, in which a 19-year-old killed 17 system may have been ment the use of college facilities years to examine the Florida students and staff members, she is dismayed that breached.” by its fund-raising and real-estate Constitution and propose changes Florida ranks last in the nation “in caring for the The department said that the foundation. for consideration. The commis- mentally ill.” She said that in nearly every recent payment system is run by out- In written responses appended sion is one of five ways the state mass shooting incident, the perpetrator turned out to side vendors, and that there was to the audit report, the college constitution may be changed. be someone with mental health problems. stated that it agreed with the audi- The commission meets for Ketchel said that Okaloosa County has an oppor- Please see HACK, page A-3 tors’ findings and was working to about a year, traveling across the tunity to host one of three pilot projects in Florida to comply with their recommenda- state, identifying issues, receiving establish a 150-bed forensic mental health and sub- tions for improvement. A college proposals, performing research, stance abuse unit. Such units, she said, will provide spokeswoman last week said the and possibly recommending care to people with mental illnesses who have com- institution had nothing to add to changes to the constitution. In-school mitted crimes. its written responses. The CRC’s recommendations She said that while this will be only “one piece of A summary of the audit, for ballot measures is due May a very complex puzzle,” it will be an important step which was conducted January 10. Any revisions to the constitu- vaccine toward caring for people in dire need of help, and Please see COLLEGE, page A-2 also toward preventing any crimes or acts of violence Please see PANEL, page A-5 such people might commit because of their illness. is eyed Please see ISSUES, page A-3 By Jacob Fuller Beacon Correspondent Okaloosa County public- school seventh graders may not have to go to a doctor's office for a vaccination before starting classes this fall. The school board A state audit was conducted last week discussed a proposal to of college operations in 2017. offer the tetanus-diphtheria-per- tussis vaccine, or Tdap, in county middle schools next month. Overhaul of Valparaiso's aging T-pier, off North Bayshore Drive, should be completed this week, according to city Public Works Director Nathan Kelley. The Don Gaetz of Niceville moderat- The proposed contractor for Clarification ed a public hearing of the A series of public breakfasts $74,000 replacement of pilings, deck and railings of the popular fishing and recreation structure, which juts 267 feet into Toms Bayou, cost $74,000 and was the program, Healthy Schools accomplished under municipal contract by FIDS Contracting Inc. “Every component is brand new and will provide many years of enjoyment for our commu- Florida Constitution Revision offered by the Twin Cities Elks, LLC, Jacksonville, already offers nity,” Kelley said. Beacon photo by Mike Griffith Commission held in Pensacola including one scheduled for Feb. 27. Beacon photo by Mike Griffith flu vaccinations in school through March 3, are raising money for The Niceville-Valparaiso Little League opened its season on Saturday at Twin Oaks. Fifty-one teams, with players ranging in age from 4 to 12, will begin their a similar program. Flu vaccina- buses to send children to and regular season. No one seemed to recall the year that Little League began in this area, but Niceville Fire Department Chief Tommy Mayville remembers play- tions are not required, in school or ing in 1962, when the community came together to watch games on a field in “Old Valparaiso.” More than half a century later, there are 10 Little League dia- Outdoor sports were just the ticket on a sunny and balmy weekend. People of all ages came out to enjoy golf in Bluewater Bay, a Northwest Florida State College base- from Elks summer camp with- out. monds in four locations around Niceville and Valparaiso. The 2018 season will run through the beginning of May. Pictured, left to right, top to bottom: ball double-header, and a 5K run to benefit the Niceville High School marching band. Left to right, top to bottom: Jamie Bristol and her daughter in the 5K. Race winner out reference to financial need, For a student to receive a vac- Okaloosa County airport officials say they Citizens air views on National Merit finalists announced Ballplayers in action Saturday. Valparaiso Mayor Heyward Strong represented his city during opening ceremonies The Niceville High School Junior ROTC Matthew Blunden crosses the finish line. The NWFSC Raiders played Motlow State (Tennessee), splitting the doubleheader 4-5 and 10-4. Some 119 runners participated and to benefit the camp itself. After a colder than usual winter, warm weekends heralding spring have brought nature lovers outdoors. The Bluewater Bay Marina attracted people of all cination at school, a parent or ages last weekend to enjoy food and drink, play in sand and water, and socialize. Golfers perfected their skills on the Eglin course practice range. Flowering are taking steps to end friction between cab- presented the colors. Throwing a ceremonial first pitch was Navy Capt. Max McCoy, vice commander, 33rd Fighter Wing. The NHS softball team high-fived in the NHS run. Family, golf, and sunshine are always a good combination. Golfers Michael Baffa, Gus Baffa, Terence Mitchell and Katy Mitchell. NHS band members A Page 1 photo caption in the bies and drivers for Uber and Lyft over azaleas and trees provided backdrops for bike riders and joggers. At Lincoln Park, Valparaiso, people spent a warm afternoon boating, swinging, picnick- Little Leaguers during the opening-day parade of teams. Beacon photos by Paula Mims Please see VACCINE, page A-3 played favorite songs to motivate the runners. Henriikka Blunden, 3, awaits her dad, Matthew, whose winning time was 16:08. Beacon photos by Paula Mims for Niceville High School Feb. 14 issue misstated the pur- ing, or sometimes just sitting and enjoying scenery and sunshine. An American flag caught the rays of the late-afternoon sun. A young man demonstrated access to customers at Destin-Fort Walton Beach Airport. Beacon photo Rocky Bayou preserve pose of the funds. his cast-netting skill to an admiring audience. Beacon photos by Mike Griffith By Chrissie Kirila The 480-acre preserve encom- about the Rocky Bayou Aquatic Beacon Correspondent passes “all submerged lands Preserve, meeting attendees were Ten streets set to be resurfaced Hearts in the right place below the mean high water line of divided into two groups to review, Lovely The Florida Department of By Mike Griffith Niceville area, during a March 6 throughout the county. State seeks comments College Environmental Protection held a Rocky Bayou” north of Fred discuss and comment upon five Valparaiso mayoral election nears Beacon Correspondent meeting held in Crestview. According to a report from public meeting in Niceville last Gannon Rocky Bayou State Park issues addressed in the proposal. The Okaloosa County The improvements will county staff members, “alternate week to receive citizen comments and east of State Road 20 bridge. Reviews were led by DEP reports Commission approved projects include up to $324,566 for surface treatments will be per- as a tree on a proposed management plan The proposed plan is an update Florida Coastal Office personnel, on plan for bayou to improve roads throughout the “micro surface treatment” to formed utilizing the services of for the Rocky Bayou Aquatic for an original plan dating from who solicited and recorded feed- Beacon Staff web page: The plan is subject to review by 1991. back. Issues examined were water county, including 10 in the county-maintained roadsa contractor, Asphalt Paving The greening books get Preserve. Systems, Inc. The Florida Department of publicfiles.dep.state.fl.us/CAMA/ the State Acquisition and After a brief presentation quality, habitat loss, lack of Asphalt Paving Systems will Environmental Protection will plans/aquatic/Rocky-Bayou-AP- Restoration Council, a DEP- resource information, public of a highway use preservation methods hold a public meeting in Niceville Management-Plan.pdf cheaper awareness and sustainable public Please see BAYOU, page A-2 known as microsurfacing. next week to receive comments on use. Goals, objectives, strategies interchange By Mike Griffith Microsurfacing applies a thin a proposed “management plan” and performance measures relat- Beacon Correspondent layer of asphalt, crushed aggre- By Jacob Fuller for the Rocky Bayou Aquatic ed to these issues were presented. Members of the Northwest gate and polymer to roadways Beacon Correspondent Preserve. Some notable concerns Florida State College Board of showing signs of pending fail- The state-designated preserve expressed by attendees during the A team of Air Force volun- Trustees were pleased to learn that ure. The application seals small comprises the part of Rocky meeting or in individual question- teers and soil conservationists textbook costs at the college have cracks, prevents further mois- Bayou east of the State Road 20 ing were the concern over the has completed a project to beau- been steadily dropping. Northwest Florida State College says textbooks are becoming ture intrusion, improves the ride Meigs Bridge. impact of the recently constructed tify five acres at the intersection During the board’s Feb. 20 more affordable. Beacon photo by Mike Griffith surface and extends the life of Airman 1st Class Myeshia Wright drops moisture retainer into The meeting will be held at 6 Spence Parkway just east of the of State Road 85 and the Spence meeting on the college’s main the road at a fraction of the cost a planting hole during a beautification and reforestation project p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 27, in Room between 2016 and 2017, the ed, in such cases, with a compari- bayou, particularly a perceived Parkway in Niceville. campus in Niceville, Scott of conventional repaving. The project included trans- at Highway 85 North and Spence Parkway, just north of SS302, Northwest Florida State school used the lowest of all son between a 2016 new-book sediment discharge and buildup Niceville. Air Force photo Behrens, the college’s vice presi- Roads in the Niceville area College. options: new-book purchase, price with a much-lower 2017 which, according to some, seem- ferring 224 cubic yards of top- dent of teaching and learning, told slated for such improvements soil from a pond restoration A draft plan, which would used-book purchase, ebook, rental rental price. ingly has altered the flow of 57 saw palmettos. Department of Transportation in the board that aggregate textbook include: project on Eglin Air Force Base The Mid-Bay Bridge November 2017. supersede the DEP’s current 10- of new book, and rental of used Behrens said, “Our faculty is Early voting in the Valparaiso mayoral election will take place March 5-9, from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Rocky Creek, which the highway Niceville High School National Merit Scholarship finalists Matthew Deyong, Julia Freeman, Mason prices at the college have fallen —Thomas Street from Courtesy photo year management plan, will be book. In many cases, rental very diligent in looking for low in the Crestview and Shalimar offices of the Okaloosa County Supervisor of Elections. On election bridges. to the site, adding fertilizer and Authority, which owns the Headed by William "Sandy" during each of the last four semes- Hutchinson, Joshua Mills, Ryan Murphey and Samuel Stahl are eligible to compete for the Valparaiso Boulevard to its This year s Valentine's King and Queen were crowned at the Manor at Bluewater Bay during a presented for public comment. A options, which tended to be the cost and free textbooks, as well as day, March 13, polls will be open 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. at First Baptist Church of Valparaiso, 444 In addition there was concern National Merit Scholarship awards that will be offered in the spring. About 1.6 million students in mulch, planting Florida native Spence Parkway, received the Pizzolato, soil conservationist The state-designated Rocky Bayou Aquatic Preserve includes ters. Beacon photo Sweetheart Luncheon serenaded by a barbershop quartet. Jesse Hastings was named King of Valparaiso Parkway. Five candidates are vying for a four-year term as mayor: Clark "Tom" over the impact of rainwater some 22,000 high schools enter the National Merit Scholarship competition annually. About 15,000 dead-end. wildflower seeds, and planting official notice and permit to pro- with the 96th Civil Engineering copy of the 92-page document that part of the bayou east of the State Road 20 Meigs Bridge. A In figuring comparative totals cheapest, were not included in the online material.” He said that fac- The state of Florida has proposed a revised management plan for The east end of 23rd Street is among 10 streets in the Niceville Hearts and Shirley Baker Queen of Hearts by a vote of staff, visitors and fellow residents. Browning IV, Joe Morgan, Patrick William Palmer, Brent Smith and Heyward Strong. Beacon photo are named finalists. 565 longleaf pine seedlings and ceed with the project from the Please see GREENING, page A-2 may be downloaded from a DEP public meeting on its planned management will take place in earlier, 2016 figures. This result- Please see COLLEGE, page A-3 the Rocky Bayou Aquatic Preserve. Beacon photo by Mike Griffith Please see PRESERVE, page A-8 area scheduled for resurfacing by Okaloosa County. Please see STREETS, page A-2 Niceville Feb. 27. Fla. DEP

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A former church Week-long AF drill tests Ministry helps kids Bayou dredging plan Helping moms in crisis school in Niceville, is undergoing a An Air Force war- Group to offer temporary home, teach life skills transformation into plane banks above succeed in school Representation of a effects of GPS jamming Beacon Staff equipped to stand on their own. a planned tempo- mock aggressor hits DEP roadblock Niceville city propos- rary home for single Beacon Staff Friday. The exercise began a.m. to 12 p.m.,” according to boats in a drill over By Mike Griffith ter has 72 students enrolled, as A Niceville charity is refash- Fundraiser April 7, A-2. The nonprofit organization Beacon Correspondent well as a waiting list. By Mike Griffith tion project during a meeting Department of Environmental al for restoration of mothers and their People in the area may expe- Monday. the Air Force statement. Choctawhatchee ioning an old schoolhouse into a Crisis Aid for Littles and Moms “Our mission,” said Bob Beacon Correspondent March 13. Protection to postpone the dredg- the north end of housing with an even more-ambi- children. rience a bit more trouble finding “Residents may experience “Normal GPS reliability will Bay in 2014. This The Heights Tutoring Center, Boggy Bayou. Plans temporary home for single moth- (CALM) hopes the venture will weeks 53rd a Niceville nonprofit organiza- Buckland, chairman of The Heights volunteer Irene Niceville City Council mem- The bad news, Lewis said, is ing portion of the restoration proj- tious effort—to spark a turn- their destinations or friends this aircraft noise and GPS unavail- resume once testing is complete to dredge (area ers and their young children. help “conquer generational pover- Weapons tion that provides afterschool Heights board of directors, “is Maxwell gives some home- bers last week heard good news that recent tests of the muck at the ect pending a mitigation plan from around in the mothers’ lives, week while the Air Force jams ability,” according to a state- each day,” the statement added. marked in red) are in The aim is to take in young ty”—the failure of successive gen- Evaluation Group academic tutoring, Bible study, to serve those most in need in work help to Richard Hickey, and bad news about plans to bottom of the Boggy Bayou head- the city of Niceville. teaching them everyday skills and GPS signals during an air-sea ment issued by Eglin. “Those in the area are strongly question following moms who may be virtually erations to master the everyday exercise may tem- snacks, and recreation to local the Niceville and Valparaiso 8, Emir Morales, 10, and restore the headwaters of Boggy waters indicated a slightly higher- This, Lewis said, would make responsibilities that they may exercise. “Ground-based navigation encouraged to plan activities Sherman Broxson, 9. concerns expressed homeless, perhaps disowned by skills needed to succeed as a fam- porarily disrupt students from elementaryarea by providing resources to Bayou. than-expected level of mercury in it very difficult and expensive to by state environmen- never have learned. After nine Eglin Air Force Base said its and electronic devices or smart accordingly.” GPS signals. Beacon photo by Mike Griffith their families, left by the man in ily, in school, and in the work- through high school, plans a students and families through one area. Although the level was dredge the muck from the bottom tal officials. Avcon months of residence, employment, 53rd Weapons Evaluationphone apps that rely on GPS The Air Force operates the Air Force photo Lee Lewis, representing their lives, or evicted by landlord place, according to Grace Nuffer, quality educational support and lower than “background” or natu- of the bayou as originally planned, training and Christian love, it is Group would conduct the opera- may be affected in the vicinity worldwide system of Global fundraising golf tournament on Avcon, an engineering company or friends. president. demonstrating the faith and employed by the city, briefed ral levels, he said, it exceeds state due to the added expense of prop- hoped the women will “graduate” tion in Choctawhatchee Bay and of Eglin Air Force Base while Positioning System satellites Friday at the Eglin golf course. But the church-based group In many cases, such skills are hope we have in Christ.” standards, prompting the Florida Please see BAYOU, page A-5 from the group home, better- the Gulf of Mexico through tests are being conducted from 8 Now in its 11th year of oper- council members on the restora- behind the project will couple the Please see GPS, page A-2 Please see MOMS, page A-2 ation, the Niceville tutoring cen- Please see MINISTRY, page A-5 Bluewater Bay Springing forward Further 'He is risen' Hopping to it Lawmaker Enjoying the great outdoors Killer MSBU eyes gets life probe of condo needs, tastes schools street signs the feeling sentence By Mike Griffith Beacon Correspondent in 1981 chief Members of the Bluewater Bay Municipal Services Rep. Gaetz visits Benefit Unit (MSBU) earlier this month discussed Beacon Staff slaying plans for next year’s budget and heard a call to better Valp. Coke plant Without issuing any criminal serve residents of a condominium community on the Beacon Staff charges, a state grand jury has periphery of Bluewater Bay. By Chrissie Kirila Beacon Correspondent Jackie D. Long last week recommended further investiga- Also discussed were possible upgrades of aging tion of Okaloosa County Congressman Matt Gaetz toured the was found guilty of first degree street signs. premeditated murder in the Superintendent of Schools The MSBU is a unit of Okaloosa County govern- Valparaiso Coca-Cola Bottling Co. sales and Mary Beth Jackson in connec- distribution center Thursday as part of an “Open 1981 shotgun slaying of ment established to maintain streetlights, landscaping, Leonard “Buddy” Phelps, of tion with reports of alleged and other care and maintenance of “common areas” Gaetz Day” in which he visited several places in abuse of a student at a Fort the Twin Cities and met with constituents. Niceville. throughout the unincorporated Bluewater Bay commu- Following the jury verdict, Walton Beach elementary nity. After seeing a slide show about the Coke cen- school. ter on Valastics Avenue, the Dist. 1 Republican Okaloosa The MSBU is governed by an County The grand jury also alleged lawmaker toured the soft drink warehouse. elected board of five volunteers, Circuit that Jackson had “failed to ful- Ed Hall, manager of the sales center, said the and is funded by an annual assess- Judge fill” her obligation to ensure warehouse is not a storehouse for product, but ment on each residential property William safety and well-being of stu- rather a distribution center that receives pallet- unit and on each 1,000-square-foot Stone sen- dents. unit of commercial property within ready orders from Pensacola on a nightly basis, which are in turn loaded onto trucks for delivery tenced The recommendation of the Bluewater Bay. The annual assess- Long to grand jury, ment is $69 per unit, and may not to stores and vending machines each day. Gaetz was particularly interested in learning life impris- which was be increased by more than 5 percent onment. empaneled a year. how recent federal income-tax cuts were affect- ing the business, a major employer in the area. Long, Jackie Long in the wake No specific figures for the com- Bluewater Bay formerly of of the alle- ing year’s budget were discussed at street sign. As a member of the House Budget Committee, Gaetz said he had a role in drafting Holt, was already serving three gations at meetings held March 13, although consecutive life sentences in K enwood members did talk about some items that might be the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017, which passed Congress and was signed into law in December. Alabama Elementary included in the spending plan for the fiscal year that for his part School, was will begin Oct. 1. Tax overhaul has resulted in greater take- home pay for employees due to lower tax-with- in a brutal dated Feb. MSBU board member Judy Griffin said the new home-inva- 20 and pub- Mary Beth budget should include a line item for funding irrigation holding obligations, said Hall. This in turn boosts the local economy, said Gaetz. The sion rob- licly dis- Jackson water, which is used to support plantings along main bery in closed by roadways and other areas maintained by the MSBU. Valparaiso Coke facility employs 75 on a $4.4 million annual payroll. 2005 in First Circuit State Attorney Bill Board member Felix Beukenkamp said the budget Wing, Ala. Eddins on Thursday. should also include money to improve street-identifica- Hall and Coke Division Director Steve Wood said the local center’s biggest challenge was Evidence Four other school district tion signs throughout Bluewater Bay. developed employees have been arrested Griffin agreed, saying that many street signs are finding enough skilled labor, particularly com- mercial drivers. by theBuddy Phelps in the case in recent months— growing old and are in need of maintenance or replace- O kaloosa one on charges of child abuse ment. Board members did not reach a consensus on Hall said that the company seeks ways to make the ergonomics of the business more County Sheriff’s Office in prob- and three on charges of not whether all such signs should be replaced during the ing the Phelps slaying figured in reporting suspected child abuse. employee-friendly. For example, a new genera- Please see MSBU, page A-8 the Alabama trial in 2015. All have entered pleas of not Phelps was 59 when some- guilty and await trial. Jackson, Please see GAETZ, page A-3 one beat and shot him in the who declined invitations to back yard of his business, appear before the grand jury, Phelps Brothers Boat Works, at has not been accused of any A rainy, stormy Saturday morning threatened to spoil the weekend plans of many people, but as the day wore on, the rain stopped, and by Sunday, a cloudy but dry day John Sims Parkway and State criminal wrongdoing. drew many people outdoors to enjoy the remainder of the weekend. As the sun set, turning late afternoon into night, members of Niceville s Rocky Bayou Baptist Church Road 85 North, Niceville. In response to the grand jury joined with those of King s Cross Church on a Walton County beach for a community outreach, supper and bonfire. The Niceville dog park, near the Mullet Festival site, The inside of Phelps' apart- recommendation, the state attracted people, along with their “best friends.” Also at the Mullet Site, Generations United Church hosted a Military Family Appreciation Day. Pastor Phil Daniels said ment over his business was ran- Spring weather has brought people outdoors to enjoy a variety of activities. Top to bottom, from left: The Bluewater Bay Marina is an ideal place for sailing, attorney’s office said it would the event was open to military members, veterans, and their families to thank them for their service and to offer a day of food and fun. The Auto Zone in Niceville hosted sacked. Investigators believe the boating, or simply enjoying the views of Rocky Bayou and Ward Cove. A young golfer at the Bluewater Bay golf course received some adult instruction and review the evidence to see if a fundraising car wash, run by members of the “850 Alliance Dance Family,” part of Amplify Performing Arts, Bluewater Bay, which helps to introduce youngsters to dance as not only a form of recreation, but also as a possible future profession. Turkey Creek park in Niceville was where some people came to enjoy nature, walk or killer or killers got what they encouragement. A “Spring Fling” sponsored by student government at Northwest Florida State College, Niceville, included games, refreshments, and infor- further charges are warranted. were looking for. mation booths representing student organizations. In Bluewater Bay, golfers of all ages practiced their skills, including members of a youth golf group. run along the boardwalk, and to get a close look at the turtles that live in the waterway. At the Bluewater Bay golf club, some adults spent Sunday afternoon helping Jackson, in her response to Please see KILLER, page A-5 Valparaiso
s Shipyard Point Park, also known as “Little Lincoln Park,” is a favorite place for mothers and young children to enjoy the playground or the sights youngsters sharpen their golf skills. At the Bluewater Bay Marina, Vanessa Duncan introduced her children Aspen, 6, and Stillman, 12, to the fundamentals of catch-and- Please see CHIEF, page A-2 of Boggy Bayou. Beacon photos by Mike Griffith release fishing. Late Sunday afternoon, boaters returned to the marina after a day on the water. Beacon photos by Mike Griffith

A representative of the Florida Club called on upholding ethics, upholding the Christians in the Twin Cities and worldwide will celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ on Easter Sunday with many church services, includ- the Bluewater Bay MSBU to provide more serv- ices in the area of the condominium develop- military, defending and protecting Elks celebrate first responders Valparaiso gets ing an ecumenical sunrise service at Lincoln Park, Valparaiso, at 6:15 a.m. Beacon photos Lawmaker recaps the Second Amendment and pre- ment. Beacon photos by Mike Griffith serving the values of the people of There was a great turnout of delighted youngsters for a city-sponsored Easter egg hunt at Lincoln Park, Valparaiso, on Saturday. Later, many Dist. 1 Congressman Matt Gaetz listens to a his district. His faith “plays a big a new mayor Valparaiso government reorganizes children, including (pictured, upper right) Mikayla White and her little brother, rode around the park on a kiddie train. The Valparaiso Volunteer briefing by Coca-Cola managers during a visit legislative session role” in his job, he said. Miss Fire Department displayed its new pumper. Michelle Hyland, pictured at lower right with Emily and Ethan Hyland, found a golden egg and won Thursday to the companys distribution center The Destin Republican, who is Beacon Staff an Easter basket. Beacon photos by Paula Mims in Valparaiso. Beacon photo by Chrissie Kirila By Chrissie Kirila about the two-month regular serving his first term, said that Brent Smith took office under new mayor and commission Raiders in Beacon Correspondent annual legislative session that House Resolution 319 passed the as mayor of Valparaiso this NHS State Rep. Mel Ponder (Dist. 4) ended March 11. Florida Legislature and was hand- week after winning a five- By Mike Griffith In remarks April 2, Ponder said Beacon Correspondent last week briefed the Niceville ed to Dist. 1 Congressman Matt way election. Elite Eight 3-story Honor Choir performs Republican Women Federated he focused on four priorities: Gaetz to advance federally. The The Valparaiso City Smith, a former city resolution seeks to make perma- named Commission held an organiza- The Northwest Florida commissioner who lost nent a federal moratorium on oil Twenty-four contestants tional meeting March 19. It was State College mens bas- hotel two earlier bids for the ketball team and womens drilling in the Gulf of Mexico Test competed for the title of the first by Valparaiso’s new mayoralty, edged second- basketball team both made Range. Current legislation pro- Miss NHS on Friday at mayor and city commission, fol- place finisher Joe Morgan Niceville High School. it to the NJCAA Division 1 tects this area from drilling until Brent Smith Heyward Strong lowing a municipal election proposed by 12 votes, with 321, in Marissa Martinez won the national quarterfinals last June of 2022. The Gulf Test March 13 that resulted in the Beacon Staff the March 13 balloting. 2017. Strong’s latest commis- crown. Miss NHS court, week. The mens team fell Range, the largest U.S. munitions- turnover of two commission Finishing a distant third was sion term expired this month, as from left: Maddie Quick, to Southern Idaho, 107-93, Niceville is about to get testing area, is used by military seats and the mayoralty. in a playoff Thursday in the interim mayor, Heyward did that of another unsuccessful first runner-up; Marissa another hotel. installations, including Eglin Air During the meeting, new Hutchinson, Kan. (pic- Strong, who received 191 votes. mayoral candidate, Tom Martinez, Miss NHS; A three-story, 79-room hotel Force Base. Aubrey Hinely, third run- Mayor Brent Smith set out the tured). The womens sea- Strong, a city commissioner Browning, who placed fourth. called TownPlace Suites is pro- A bill allowing colleges within ner-up; Yolanda Stallworth, duties of each commissioner, son also ended Thursday, Twin Cities Elks Lodge 2747, Valparaiso, celebrated standout first responders from the local area for 48 years, A total of 989 posed for a vacant tract at the the Florida state system to waive second runner-up. including new commission in Lubbock, Texas, with a at a dinner held in their honor at the lodge. Family members and supporters from their various assumed may- votes were cast 55-52 loss at the hands of southwest corner of Highway certain fees for active-duty mili- Commission meets, A-3. Beacon photo by Paula Mims members Edward Crosby and agencies joined them. Each received a letter written by their superiors and an engraved insulated oral duties after for mayor—35 Tallahassee, which went on 85 North and Niceville Avenue, tary members also passed. mug. Niceville Police Chief Chief David Popwell gave a short talk on the drug problem in the Twin Jay Denney, confirming their Mayor Bruce percent of the to win the national crown. just south of Generations A measure that waives certain Cities area. From left: Michael Grazioso, North Bay Fire District; Matt Webster, Niceville Fire readiness to fulfill the duties, as Beacon photo by Chrissie Kirila Arnold, chief executive for 53 city’s 2,850 eligible voters. Photo by Travis Morisse United Church. State Rep. Mel Ponder, R-Dist. 4, recapped the recent session Department; Karen Griffin, Okaloosa County EMS; Brandon Gaddis, Valparaiso Volunteer Fire follows. From left: Commissioner Ed Crosby, Mayor Brent Smith and The Twin Cities Honor Choir gave its 22nd annual community concert March 27 at Rocky Bayou Baptist Church. The chorus was composed of fifth graders straight years, died in February Please see MAYOR, page A-2 Commissioner Jay Denney, newly elected Valparaiso officials. of the Florida Legislature in remarks last week in Bluewater Please see RECAPS, page A-5 Department (his son Brandon II is in front); Austin Hinton, East Niceville Fire District; Joseph Please see HOTEL, page A-3 who were selected after auditions from Bluewater, Plew and Edge elementary schools and Lewis School. Courtesy photo Please see VALPARAISO, page A-3 Beacon photo by Chrissie Kirila Bay. Boyles, Niceville Police Department. Also honored was Kim Coone, Valparaiso Police Department.

[email protected] The voice of Niceville, Bluewater Bay and Valparaiso since 1992 (850) 678-1080 [email protected] The voice of Niceville, Bluewater Bay and Valparaiso since 1992 (850) 678-1080 [email protected] The voice of Niceville, Bluewater Bay and Valparaiso since 1992 (850) 678-1080 [email protected] The voice of Niceville, Bluewater Bay and Valparaiso since 1992 (850) 678-1080 Police Police Blotter Police Blotter Police Blot

Blotter ter The , page A-4 The , p The , p The , page A The The age A-5 The age A-5 The BBaayy BBeeaaccoonn BBaayy BBeeaaccoonn BBaayy BBeeaaccoonn BBaayy BBeeaaccoonn -3 8 Pages, 1 Section, 4 Inserts Wednesday, April 18, 2018 50¢ 8 Pages, 1 Section, 7 Inserts Wednesday, April 25, 2018 50¢ 8 Pages, 1 Section, 5 Inserts Wednesday, May 2, 2018 50¢ 8 Pages, 1 Section, 4 Inserts Wednesday, May 9, 2018 50¢ Niceville officials eye Front-yard henhouse Valparaiso Coke sales center A mom’s faith helps overhaul boosts efficiency meet challenges The Coca-Cola proposal lays an egg By Chrissie Kirila Cola United distribution fran- serves over 1,600 customers By Mike Griffith of raising her children in a foreign Sales and audit, housing rehabs Beacon Correspondent chise in September 2014. (over 267,000 consumers) using By Chrissie Kirila During a meeting in Niceville mission, considered proposed Distribution Center Beacon Correspondent country, as well as raising a child Julie and Tom Hamilton with By Mike Griffith Block Grant program. Under the the city’s Youth Advisory The owner of this back-yard Three million cases of Coca- The old facility, at the current a fleet of 19 tractor-trailers, four Beacon Correspondent April 12, the planning board rules prepared at the commission’s in Valparaiso, Although motherhood is with special needs. their children, from left: Cora, Beacon Correspondent program, one homeowner who Council. chicken in Florosa sought per- Cola products a year are site since 1973, was replaced side-load trucks, and nine vans Okaloosa County planning rejected a county commission request by county Growth recently expanded, among the most common of Julie and Tom were born and Vivian, Claire and Lucy. The Niceville City Council lives close to the Citgo fuel Tammy S. McGaughy, of the mission to house hens in the delivered locally by the by a new one at the same and pickups, said Hall. serves a two-coun- raised in the Niceville-Valparaiso Courtesy photo officials have scratched a proposal request to draft rules allowing the Management Director Elliot front yard. human experiences, it is also a heard a briefing April 10 on the depot will be relocated and his Warren Averett accounting firm, Valparaiso Sales and site on Valastics Valparaiso associates take ty area. area, where they grew up and to permit front-yard henhouses. keeping of chickens and ducks in Kampert. The proposal would Beacon photo by Chrissie Kirila special and unique experience, results of a recent financial audit home razed. briefed the city council on the Distribution Center of Avenue, said Ed Hall, orders from local businesses and Beacon photo by front yards of property zoned R-1. amend county law to allow people bringing particular joys and par- were friends during childhood, but of city government. Auditors Council members also results of her company’s recent People in residential zones of Coca-Cola Bottling sales center manager. A communicate them to a distribu- Chrissie Kirila Poultry is currently allowed in to keep chickens and some vari- ticular challenges for each mother, never really dated before leaving recommended improvements in approved the second of three annual audit of municipal unincorporated areas should not Co. United. grand opening was cel- tion center in Pensacola which back yards and side yards under eties of domesticated ducks in each father, and each child. Such for college. Julie attended Flagler accounting for municipal assets. required readings of a proposed finances. The overall result, she be allowed to raise poultry in their The recently ebrated in September assembles custom pallet loads. certain conditions. front yards if certain additional is the case for Niceville mom Julie College in St. Augustine, and Tom The council was also ordinance to govern the opera- said, was an “unmodified opin- front yards, the Okaloosa County expanded and rebuilt 2017. Valparaiso center drivers pick The planning board, which aesthetic and health-related condi- Hamilton, her husband, Tom, and attended college in Cedarville, informed of the status of the tion of food truck vendors. They ion” regarding the city’s finan- Planning Commission ruled earli- Valparaiso Coca-Cola facility The 24,000-square-foot One homes proximity to a fuel depot contributed to a decision to raze the building and relocate serves to advise the county com- their four daughters. Ohio. city’s Community Development also learned about activities of er this month. Please see HENHOUSE, page A-2 became a division of the Coca- sales and distribution center Please see COKE, page A-2 Please see AUDIT, page A-2 its occupant, according to Niceville officials. Beacon photo Julie has faced the challenges Please see MOM, page A-3 Military Celebrating Mother Nature BWB Running for a cause County aims Saturday in the Park shines Little League wrapping up season County airport panel to relieve school extends lease, summer jams to train adds workers mulls WMD techs to meet growth Beacon Staff near bridge By Mike Griffith A school to train military Beacon Correspondent tax hike By Mike Griffith members in dealing with weapons of mass destruction is Okaloosa County has extended its lease with the By Mike Griffith Beacon Correspondent Air Force for the land on which the Destin-Fort Beacon Correspondent The director of the Mid-Bay Bridge being built on Eglin Air Force Base. Walton Beach Airport is situated. The county has During an informal, nonvot- Authority briefed members of the MBBA’s gov- Carothers Construction Inc., also hired two more employees to help monitor ing workshop preceding their erning board on plans to close the southbound Oxford, Miss., was awarded a operations in the fast-growing airline terminal. regular meeting on April 10, interchange at Lakeshore Drive and the Spence $13.8 million U.S. contract to County Airports Director Tracy Stage said the members of the governing Parkway on Saturday afternoons during the design and build the “WMD hiring of two new Airport Operations Center work- board of the Bluewater Bay coming summer. Training Applied Instruction ers will help keep up with the added activity at the Municipal Services Benefit The closure is intended to reduce traffic back- Facility.” airports, especially the Destin-Fort Walton Beach Unit (MSBU) discussed the ups along Lakeshore Drive and White Point The project consists of a Airport, which handles scheduled passenger traffic. possibility of raising the annual Road, Bluewater Bay, on busy summer week- mockup area for weapons of That traffic topped 1.1 million passengers last year tax charged to Bluewater Bay ends, when many tourists arrive for their vaca- mass destruction (WMD) train- for the first time. property owners from $69 to tions in Destin and other beachfront communi- ing, including nine blast pits, as The airport, Stage said, provided direct flights to $72 per property unit. ties along the Gulf of Mexico. Many motorists, well as a number of buildings, only five cities two years ago, but now offers direct The additional revenue, said seeking a shortcut to the Mid-Bay Bridge, were including a communications service to as many as 27 cities during the height of board members, could be used bypassing the parkway interchange at State building, an electrical substa- the summer tourist season, as airlines have added to conduct improvements and Road 20 and using the White Point-Lakeshore tion, a dependent school, recruit direct flights to and from the Emerald Coast. maintenance of landscaping, shortcut, to the dismay of local residents trying barracks, a bus station, an avia- Allegiant Air, which began serving the Destin- street signs, and other services to get to and from their homes. tion operations building, an air- Fort Walton Beach airport in 2016, has now placed provided in common areas of In attempts to ease the problem, the county craft support building, an its base of operations there, bringing its pilots, sup- Bluewater Bay. tried sporadic closures last summer, but this ammunition and hazardous port and maintenance workers, and their families to A property unit is a residen- year’s effort would be the first summer-long pro- materials storage building, a the area and generating other jobs in Okaloosa tial lot, or each 1,000 square gram. medical warehouse, a police County as a result. feet of commercial property. MBBA Executive Director Van Fuller said station, a bank, a harbor control The 60-year-old airport is also served by Delta The MSBU is authorized to plans call for closing the Lakeshore interchange building, a missile production Air Lines, United Airlines and American Airlines, raise its annual fee by no more between noon and 6 p.m. every Saturday, from building, an aircraft mainte- all of which are adding, or have added, flights. than 5 percent in any given year, Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day weekend. nance shop, and a central bath- A recent expansion and improvement of the and a $3 fee hike would fall Fuller said the cost of the closure to the room, according to Carothers. Airport Operations Center cost about $1.8 million, within that limit. MBBA will be about $25,000, and will cover the The job is expected to be but the additional air service is expected to bring The MSBU is a branch of cost of installing barricades at the interchange, completed by August 2018. about $419 million in new economic activity to the Okaloosa County government, as well as installing and operating electronic The Florida Department of county. established to provide such message signs along approaches to White Point Environmental Protection on The Destin-Fort Walton airport, Stage said, “is maintenance, especially along Road and Lakeshore Drive, informing motorists April 19 granted the facility a now the second fastest growing airport in the coun- main thoroughfares and in other permit to connect to the try.” common areas of the unincor- Please see BRIDGE, page A-2 sewage-collection system that Some other recent improvements are more aes- porated Bluewater Bay commu- funnels waste to the Niceville- thetic, Stage said. For example, new carpeting has nity. It is managed by a five- Valparaiso Regional Please see AIRPORT, page A-3 member elected board of unpaid Wastewater Plant in Niceville. Please see TAX HIKE, page A-3 According to the permit, the connection, carrying domestic wastewater, will be made to an existing Okaloosa County sewage main in Walton County, near Range Road and SSG Matero Avenue. This is the location of the Navy Explosive Ordnance Disposal School, which trains EOD technicians People flocked to Rocky Bayou State Park Saturday for Estuary Day, a festival highlighting the importance of protecting local waterways and other natural Autism Spectrum on the Emerald Coast held its second annual Fam Jam and Color Run Saturday at Northwest Florida State College, Niceville. The It was a beautiful day for the 42nd annual Saturday in the Park Festival at Perrine Park in Valparaiso. The community event showcased the Northwest Florida from all four U.S. military serv- The Airport Operations Center at Destin-Fort An entrance monument at Beacon photo features. Children went on scavenger hunts, earning stamps at various exhibits as they learned about the natural environment and humankinds effects on it. Niceville-based organization describes itself as a charitable and educational effort “to ensure that all individuals affected by autism will be fully included Heritage Museum and demonstrations of traditional crafts. Guests also enjoyed entertainment, by the Lewis School Jazz Band, craft and food vendors, a Kid ices. Walton Beach Airport is the hub of command Bluewater Boulevard and Okaloosa County officials hope to prevent Top left, an adventure on Rocky Bayou. Top right, Gavin Houston, 2, enjoyed painting his version of a fish. Pictured immediately below, Margaret Benner, of within their community.” Children had a great time playing on large inflatables, building projects at the Home Depot booth, and meeting Star Wars char- Zone, a flower show, and an old-car show. Beacon photos by Paula Mims Over 50 teams have been playing Niceville-Valparaiso Little League baseball and softball over the past two months. The Challenger Baseball and control of ground operations at all three Range Road will get new backups of beach-bound traffic on summer the Choctawhatchee Audubon Society explains bird migration to a young listener. Center left, T-shirts painted by participants are hung out to dry. The event acters. Over 200 runners participated in the Color Run. More than 40 vendors offered their wares. The Niceville AFJROTC presented the colors as Victoria Please see WMD, page A-3 District 1 of Florida just concluded its season, while other Little League action continues for another two weeks in playoff action. county airports, including security, passenger plantings. weekends such as this one last year on White was sponsored by the Choctawhatchee Basin Alliance. Beacon photos by Paula Mims George sang the National Anthem. Music was performed by Captain Davy and the Crossbones. Beacon photos by Paula Mims Beacon photos by Paula Mims processing and baggage handling. Beacon photo by Mike Griffith Point Road. Beacon photo by Mike Griffith Valparaiso gives property Woman
s Club hosts bingo at Pavilion College mulls blanket Rocky students lend a hand Okaloosa County OKs measure Lady Eagles advance to Regionals Garbage collector to expand drainage tax funding College to the Heritage Museum By Mike Griffith fund drainage. and Caring for county land in reshuffles recycling By Mike Griffith porated county areas in the parts By Mike Griffith commission member to the concerns expressed by some ban on tobacco use Beacon Correspondent The commission alsoNiceville, and declared April 24 graduates The Okaloosa Countyapproved an ordinance to as Mia Manganello Day, in Beacon Correspondent of Rocky Bayou, Bluewater Bay, Beacon Correspondent regional sewer board, and heard city residents during the meet- By Chrissie Kirila approved April 17 by the college out of pocket. These fees, which Commission has voted to estab- restrict beachfront lighting in honor of an Okaloosa County Some residents of unincorpo- and Seminole will see changes to The Valparaiso Citysome reports on city govern- ing. Beacon Correspondent board of trustees, was authorized include technology, financial aid, order to protect sea turtles, resident who recently won an rated parts of the Niceville area are their collection schedules, such 1,861 Commission agreed to convey ment activity during the April 9 Commissioners agreed to by the Florida Legislature earlier student activities and capital lish a “framework” for a new Northwest Florida State renewed a lease with Sharing Olympic bronze medal for seeing changes in the day their that waste and recyclables will be some city-owned property to commission meeting. vacate the right-of-way to an this year. improvement, total $21.24 per county taxing district to help Northwest Florida State College will waive certain course speedskating. recycables are picked up by Waste picked up on the same day. College held its 53rd annu- local institutions, appointed a Commissioners also listen to alley off Valparaiso Parkway, as credit hour for lower division fees for active-duty military mem- Currently, students receiving During a public hearing April Management, the garbage-collec- The company also said, how- al commencement cere- a step toward selling the alley- classes. Only the standard tuition bers starting July 1. military tuition assistance benefits 17, the commission approved a tion contractor. ever, that 791 residents, monies Saturday at the way to the Okaloosa Gas of $82.77 per credit hour is cov- The waiver for nontuition fees, must pay non-instructional fees new ordinance to create a For some, garbage mostly in the East Niceville campus. The col- District. The alleyway is not ered by military tuition assistance. lege, which posted 1,861 used for public traffic, but is a Stormwater Utility and and recyclables will be Niceville area, will lose The new policy is designed to picked up on the same same-day collection, graduates this year, narrow strip of land between 2 Enterprise Fund and authorize awarded bachelor s make courses more affordable for the imposition of taxes or fees to day. and will see their trash buildings already used by the beneficiaries, boosting enroll- degrees, associate gas district. fund it. Commissioners empha- Others, who former- and recyclables picked degrees, vocational certifi- ment. “We anticipate a significant sized that by creating the new ly had both garbage and up on different days. City Administrator Carl Scott increase in the number of students cates and GED degrees in stormwater utility, they are not recyclables pickup on This will be because two ceremonies. briefed the commission on the Northwest Florida using tuition assistance to attend right-of-way vacation, and said currently establishing any new the same day, will now streets in front of Graduates were State College is NWFSC based on these waivers,” taxes or fees for county resi- see them picked up on homes in some areas addressed by Mark the city was in the process of considering ban- stated college President Devin dents, although they acknowl- separate days. are not always spacious enough to Wilson, chief executive of selling the land to Okaloosa ning smoking cam- Stephenson. The Lady Eagles softball team won a third straight 7A District 2 title April 24 when they defeated the Florida Chamber of The Twin Cities Womans Club hosted a bingo and lunch for the residents of the Twin Cities edged that such fees or taxes Representatives of Waste allow for same-day pickup of both Gas, probably for about puswide. The college’s chief financial The Rocky Bayou Christian Academy Junior Classical League and Chess Club combined Milton 7-1. Niceville got off to an early lead thanks to a grand slam home run by Katie Lightfoot, Commerce, and Jimmy Pavilion, Niceville. Residents enjoyed a traditional St. Patricks Day meal, prepared by Diane may be imposed in future. Management told the Okaloosa trash and recycling bins, accord- $23,000, although finalization Beacon file photo officer, Randy White, said later forces to serve the Heritage Museum and Garden Club of Valparaiso by sprucing up the her first homer as an Eagle. Niceville will begin regional playoff action today, Wednesday, at home Patronis, Florida Chief Ballard, that featured corned beef and cabbage, mashed Irish potatoes and carrot cake. Club “There will be a fee coming,” said Okaloosa County Such fees or taxes, if County Commission last week ing to the garbage company. of the sale awaits approval by that in the current, spring term, museum's Paradise Gardens. Alicyn Grete, Hannah Lynch, Madison Mallick, Josh Pruitt, when they take on Pace at 7 p.m. Pictured, Niceville teammates congratulate first baseman Grace Financial Officer. On property donated by the city of Valparaiso and others, the members helping with the event also included Lillian Lewis, Kitty Allen, Deb Crenshaw, Gideon Riches, Caroline Seeling and Holt Agnew, enjoyed working together as they weeded Commissioner Trey Goodwin, explaining his vote against a imposed, could replace or sup- that to improve the efficiency of Written notices of the changes Heritage Museum of Northwest Florida has proposed adding the Valparaiso-based utility. enrollment includes 189 military McIntosh on her home run in the fourth inning. Separately, the Ruckel Middle School softball team NWF State College photo Joanne Herron, Linda Richardson, Virginia Peters, Gail Weaver and Marilyn Hanks. walkways, spread fresh pine straw, planted a large bed of zinnias, trimmed vines and newly approved county ordinance establishing a stormwater and the Ruckel boys track and field team won county championships. More on Page A-6. trash and recyclable pickups, were sent to residents in each programs to teach traditional crafts. Beacon photo Courtesy photo Please see FUNDING, page A-3 Please see MUSEUM, page A-3 Please see COLLEGE, page A-2 shrubs, and bleached and cleaned steppingstones. Courtesy photo fund for drainage improvements. Beacon file photo Beacon photo by Paula Mims about 2,881 residents of unincor- affected area.

The voice of Niceville, Bluewater Bay and Valparaiso since 1992 Wednesday, January 2, 2019 T HE B AY B EACON Page A-3

[email protected] The voice of Niceville, Bluewater Bay and Valparaiso since 1992 (850) 678-1080 [email protected] The voice of Niceville, Bluewater Bay and Valparaiso since 1992 (850) 678-1080 [email protected] The voice of Niceville, Bluewater Bay and Valparaiso since 1992 (850) 678-1080 [email protected] The voice of Niceville, Bluewater Bay and Valparaiso since 1992 (850) 678-1080 Police Police B Police

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A new roof has been installed North Bay starts on the North Bay Fire District Ramp closures Hurricane Irma toll Prepping for storm season firehouse, in the first phase of a three-phase, multi-year A 15-day suspension of tolls By Mike Griffith This year’s Atlantic hurricane canes, with winds of 74 miles per firehouse overhaul remodeling project. Future set for Saturdays losses totaled $1.1M on the Mid-Bay Bridge and Beacon Correspondent season got an early start, as sub- hour or above. One to four of the work will include a new facade By Mike Griffith said the bridge authority met its Spence Parkway last From June 1 through Nov. 30, tropical storm Alberto, formed in storms could turn into major hur- Alberto, a subtropical storm Beacon Staff stronger than Category 3—that Beacon Staff county spokesmen. Lakeshore Southbound access to the (inset). Beacon Correspondent annual revenue needs. September due to Hurricane the Twin Cities area, along with the southern Gulf of Mexico, ricanes, reaching above a category that washed over the area dur- A renovation of the North is, sustained winds exceeding The Okaloosa County Roads Drive itself will remain open, as Spence Parkway at Lakeshore Beacon photo by Chrissie Kirilia Irma cost the facilities owner ing the Memorial Day week- 130 m.p.h. will its northbound on ramp and Drive will be prohibited on The Mid-Bay Bridge missed Gov. Rick Scott ordered a the rest of Florida and other brought rain and winds, but little 3 (on a scale of potential damage Bay Fire District firehouse is Rendering by DC Architects Department said it will close the $1.13 million in forgone rev- end, got the 2018 Atlantic The fire district hired Saturday afternoons this sum- the opportunity to collect $1.13 statewide suspension of state- Southeastern states, will live damage, to Northwest Florida from 1 to 5) with winds at 111 under way. southbound on ramp and south- off ramp to the parkway. enue, according to a Hurricane season off to an mer in a bid to ease traffic million in tolls last year because highway tolls as Hurricane Irma through yet another annual hurri- during the Memorial Day week- m.p.h. or higher. It is impossible The 30-year-old building on Royster Contracting of Fort bound off ramp of the Spence “The closure is meant to main- recent report. Pictured, early start. Here, an enhanced jams in Bluewater Bay. of a 15-day toll suspension due to approached Florida, hit it, and cane season. Throughout the end. to forecast how many, if any, of White Point Road recently Walton Beach to plan a sturdy Parkway at Lakeshore Drive every tain traffic safety and relieve resi- the bridge toll plaza on NOAA moved northward. The suspen- The National Oceanic and these expected storms may hit satellite view. received a new metal roof. The renovation with curb appeal. Saturday afternoon through the dents on those roads from traffic Pictured, a closure last sum- a hurricane. Sept. 7, 2017, two days region, federal, state, and local mer. Beacon file photo sion was designed to ease storm Atmospheric Administration old one leaked. The first of three phases, Labor Day weekend in an attempt congestion brought about by A recently released traffic after the suspension governments, as well as a variety populated areas. evacuations and, later, residents’ (NOAA) has predicted a 70 per- The forecast for this year hov- The firehouse also has prob- which includes the roof and to ease traffic jams on Lakeshore tourists following electronic traffic report from Jacobs Engineering, began. Beacon file photos of private organizations and indi- returns to evacuated areas. A cent likelihood of 10 to 16 named ers around the average hurricane lems with drainage, wind resist- facade, is taking place now. It and White Point Road. instructions taking a detour a consulting firm employed by viduals, have been preparing to record 6.5 million Floridians tropical storms forming this year. ance and stability during severe will also address poor drainage The closures will be in effect through residential neighborhoods the Mid-Bay Bridge Authority, survive and recover from whatev- rate, according to NOAA. Of those, five to nine of the storms Among technological weather. Its 18 personnel must in the back parking lot which on Saturdays from noon until, at on their way to tourist destinations disclosed the losses. er damage may be done by hurri- Nevertheless, the Jacobs report Please see TOLL, page A-3 canes or tropical storms this year. are expected to develop into hurri- evacuate for any hurricane Please see NORTH BAY, page A-7 the latest, 6 p.m., according to Please see CLOSURES, page A-6 Please see STORM, page A-5 County Relay for Life raises funds to fight cancer Niceville council Lest we forget Niceville High graduates 497 County hikes Let the summer begin! County eyes voices support considers speed limits transit woes for Crestview $160M Cost overruns, sales tax on two local bypass funding By Mike Griffith complaints cited By Mike Griffith Beacon Correspondent roadways Beacon Correspondent The Okaloosa County Beacon Staff by consultants Niceville City Council members approved a Commission may seek to double resolution in support of Okaloosa County’s efforts Okaloosa County recently increased the speed By Mike Griffith the duration of a proposed sales Beacon Correspondent to obtain oil-spill compensation money for build- tax, from five years to 10. limit on Forest Road, and plans to do so on a sec- How to improve Okaloosa County’s troubled ing a north-south highway bypass around Voters will decide Nov. 6 on a tion of Rocky Bayou Drive as well. public transit system, including an expected budget Crestview to relieve traffic congestion. proposed countywide local- The decision to raise the limits followed a overrun of nearly $350,000 this year, was the topic The council passed the resolution May 8, after option sales tax of one-half of one county study which concluded that most motorists at a county commission workshop held in Shalimar hearing a briefing from Okaloosa County percent. Originally proposed to were safely driving faster than the posted limits. May 29. Administrator John Hofstad. Hofstad told the city sunset after raising an estimated Earlier this year, the limit was increased to 45 A central feature of the discussion was a recent council that the $200 million bypass project is $80 million in five years, a m.p.h. on the 1.5-mile length of Forest Road. The report provided, at the county’s request, by the about more than benefiting residents of the north decade-long tax period would previous limits were 35 m.p.h. and 40 m.p.h. Institute for Senior Professionals (ISP), a group of end of the county. funnel more than twice as much By contrast, during an automated survey per- retirees who consult, on a voluntary basis, at the Hofstad said that daily rush-hour traffic conges- into county and city coffers. formed by the county on Aug. 29, 2017, 85 percent request of government and nonprofit organizations. tion in and near Crestview creates problems for In other business during a of vehicles were recorded as moving at 45 m.p.h. The institute is based at Northwest Florida State residents from Niceville and other parts of south- meeting in Shalimar May 15, the or less, according to a study issued Dec. 28 by College. ern Okaloosa County who commute to and from county commission scheduled a County Engineer Scott Bitterman. After reviewing the report, commissioners dis- the northern part of the county, as well as creating public hearing next month regard- The new 45 m.p.h. limit is the highest of any cussed what to do next to improve the transit sys- difficulties for military units at Eglin Air Force ing a sewer improvement project road in Niceville or Valparaiso that is not a state tem. Base, particularly for the Army 7th Special Forces at Lake Pippin. highway. Commissioner Nathan Boyles said that it is hard Group (Airborne) and for Air Force personnel at The commission also dis- Florida Department of Transportation guide- to know whether the county provides enough transit Duke Field. cussed a planned median beautifi- lines issues the following advice to localities in service. Hofstad also said that applying for funds from cation project and a planned flood setting speed limits: Commissioner Carolyn Ketchel said that the the Triumph Gulf Coast program, which distrib- control project in Bluewater Bay, “Studies historically have shown that the transit service, however difficult and expensive, is utes money from a legal settlement resulting from and approved the annual budget observed 85th percentile speed generally reflects necessary. “The elderly, the blind, and the disabled the Deepwater Horizon oil disaster in 2010, could for the Mid-Bay Bridge Authority. the collective judgment of the vast majority of really need the service,” she said. enable Okaloosa County, with help from the County Administrator John drivers as to a reasonable speed for given traffic Commissioner Graham Fountain spoke of some Florida Department of Transportation and federal Hofstad recommended the five- and roadway conditions.” Thus, when at least 85 of the complaints he has received from his con- authorities, to build the needed bypass within the year extension of the proposed percent of motorists traveling a given stretch move stituents, including a story about a 90-year-old left next five years, rather than having to wait as much sales tax to the commission. No at or below a certain speed, the posted limit should alone for several hours at a closed facility after the as 25 years to obtain the necessary funding immediate action was taken, be adjusted up or down to reflect their behavior. transit system failed to pick the person up and take through conventional sources. though three of five commission- the person home as expected. Niceville City Councilman Sal Nodjomian, a ers spoke favorably. The Forest Road study was triggered by a Fountain suggested that instead of the county former base commander at Eglin, urged his fellow Hofstad told commissioners Please see SPEED, page A-3 trying to run the transit service itself, it should look that additional sales tax revenue Please see BYPASS, page A-7 for a free-enterprise solution, favoring the “entre- would help Okaloosa County to preneurial spirit” versus a government-run pro- leverage potential funding from Triumph Gulf Coast, the organi- Please see TRANSIT, page A-3 zation that is providing funds from a settlement from the Area veterans organizations and Boy Scouts this weekend will place flags in cemeteries in commemoration of Memorial Day. Separately, a Memorial Day ceremony, to Deepwater Horizon oil spill disas- which the community is invited, will be held Monday at 11 a.m. in Doolittle Park, Valparaiso. Pictured: Joseph Roughneen of Boy Scout Troop 52 in Sunset Cemetery, ter in 2010. Valparaiso, at the grave of PFC Charles Kent Purcell II, an Army artilleryman who was killed in action at Fire Support Base Caroline, South Vietnam, May 13, 1967, at the Commissioner Kelly Windes age of 19. Beacon photo by Chrissie Kirila Please see TAX, page A-3 Bears a bother Marathon man Family Fun Day at the Bluewater Bay Tennis Center was held Saturday for children 4-16. Pro Matt Kirkham gave lessons and led fun drills for A 26-mile walk for Relay for Life the young players. Two more sessions will be offered July 14 and Aug. 11. Meantime, playoffs have begun in the 34th season of the Okaloosa The 20th anniversary of the Niceville-Valparaiso Relay for Life was held at the Mullet Festival grounds, Niceville, last weekend. The event raised Men's Baseball League. Featured here is a weekend game between the Wildcats and the Sharks at Niceville s Twin Oaks complex. The playoffs An organization of volunteer professionals at least $44,471 for the American Cancer Society, with additional contributions still being totaled. Center, the Relay team from Plew Elementary A planned roadway bypass in Crestview is in Valparaiso Beacon Staff community he planned and built. Niceville High School awarded diplomas to 497 students Thursday night at the school stadium. Over 175 of them graduated with honors. continue this week, with the championship game to be held Sunday, also at Twin Oaks. Also pictured is blacksmithing class at the Heritage of has recommended an overhaul of the coun- expected to relieve traffic congestion on Henry Kelley, an American Altogether, the graduates earned approximately $10 million in scholarships. On Friday, Rocky Bayou Christian School conducted high school School with their Wizard of Oz-themed booth. Lower left, Fran, Grace, Nathan, and Maxx Fulcher. Grace, 18, is battling brain cancer. Her father The 20th Niceville-Valparaiso The speed limit has been increased to 45 Northwest Florida Museum, Valparaiso. The museum will host a variety of classes this summer for children and adults, as well as a day camp. ty s transit program to reverse overspending, spoke during opening ceremonies. Chelco was one of the top fundraising teams for this year's Relay. Upper right, a great crowd turned out for Highway 85. The Niceville City Council voiced By Mike Griffith imity to such bear habitats as the House resident who originally graduation ceremonies (photos, Page A-8). Beacon photos by Paula Mims m.p.h. on the 1.5-mile length of Forest Road. support for the county project. Relay for Life, held May 11-12, Beacon photos by Paula Mims reduce complaints, and improve oversight. the cancer survivors
walk that began the event. Beacon photos by Paula Mims Beacon Correspondent Eglin military reservation, which pledged $200, spontaneously dou- Beacon photo Beacon file photo was a great success, with almost Beacon photo by Mike Griffith The Valparaiso Cityborders Valparaiso to the north 2,500 participants. This year, the bled his contribution when he was Commission discussed how to and west. Rotary Clubs of Niceville- informed of the total miles com- prevent encounters between Crosby presented a proposal Valparaiso and Mid-Bay initiated pleted. “What a great inspiration College to add more New courthouse set humans and bears. for a city ordinance to establish an a special program to raise money this is for older folks,” said Kelley. During a meeting May 14, the “Urban Bear Management for this good cause, with a goal of Others were equally Motor scooter, for completion in July commission also eyed the rising Program” in Valparaiso. No $20,000. impressed. Another resident, job-oriented programs costs of cable TV and internet immediate action was taken. Rotarian Raimund Herden, 85, Gayle Norgaard, a retired Air Holiday concludes service, and the possibility of Chrissie Kirila “There are 50-plus annual open- car collide Beacon Staff ed in this figure are any new fur- Provisions of the proposed a cancer survivor himself, volun- Please see MARATHON, page A-3 Beacon Correspondent ings in the region (for commer- nishings and equipment acquiring some land for the city. Okaloosa County is nearing ordinance include: teered to walk in the Relay, which on a stormy note People who want to to cial aircraft pilots), and the aver- The driver of a motor scooter was completion of a new courthouse required by the county agencies Commissioners also heard about —Declare a “caution zone” in benefits the American Cancer planned summer programs at the As storm Alberto soaked the area with rain become commercial pilots, age wage of $45.88 an hour is airlifted to a hospital Thursday after in Crestview. and departments that are plan- any area of the city with five or Society and its programs. Herden higher than the national average his vehicle collided with a car at Valparaiso Public Library. Monday, the annual Memorial Day ceremony medical assistants or medical Construction of a replace- ning to use the building. more reported human- Beacon file photo challenged sponsors to pledge a usually held at Doolittle Park was instead held laboratory technicians will soon wage and almost double the John Sims Parkway and Rocky Commissioner Ed Attracted by the possibility of finding food in garbage cans, ment of the old courthouse Additional outfitting costs bear interactions, and a sum for each quarter-mile he inside the Amvets building in Valparaiso. average wage in the area,” said Bayou Drive, Niceville. No other Crosby briefed fellow black bears stray into local residential areas from time to time. be able to pursue such training between North Main Street and were budgeted at less than “watch zone” in any would complete, or make a flat Members of local Scouting organizations were Scott Behrens, college vice injuries were reported. The motor A new courthouse under con- commissioners on The Valparaiso City Commission is considering a measure that at Northwest Florida State scooter was heavily damaged after James Lee Boulevard began in $500,000, Autrey said. area of the city with one dollar contribution. on hand to help people to cross the rainy park- president for teaching and learn- struction in Crestview, the information he has would require residents in certain areas to secure their garbage. College. striking the right side of a small January 2017. “All users (court administra- Okaloosa County seat, is to four reported interac- What few thought possible ing lot. Later on Monday, at the T-pier in obtained from the The Niceville college will ing, in an interview Cadillac in the intersection. The Substantial completion is tion, clerk of court, security, and expected to cost between $23 tions. with no harm done. Crosby did would be prohibited from leaving actually happened. Herden, of Valparaiso, a dedicated fisherman donned rain Florida Fish and gear. Elsewhere, as the holiday weekend got off offer three new academic pro- “There are no other colleges patient was moved by ambulance to scheduled for July 29. However Board of County million and $24 million. The most likely area not say whether any of the or storing any “attractant” within Bluewater Bay, walked and Wildlife Commission to a cloudy start due to the looming storm on grams beginning in the spring of in the Panhandle offering an the Ruckel airstrip, Niceville, from there will be a 35-day period to Commissioners) are diligently Beacon photo for a caution zone encounters had resulted in an a caution zone “in a manner that walked, completing 105 laps at regarding human-bear Saturday, Okaloosa County sheriffs deputies 2019. They will lead to two-year associate of science degree in which he was flown to a hospital, address any final issues and working to keep this cost would be the northern- injury. creates, or would reasonably be the Relay site in Niceville, or inset. Beacon photos interactions and how Don Martin and Tia Frembgen enforced a county degrees in Professional Pilot professional pilot technology, establishment of security. down,” Autrey said. most part of Valparaiso, —Within caution zones, the expected to create, a lure or 26.25 miles, in just over six hours. they can be prevented. closure of the interchange at Lakeshore Drive Technology with a Commercial with the closest program located The construction cost is Most of the county’s judicial where 14 bear-human ordinance would require residents enticement for bears.” The total amount Herden has and Spence Parkway to ease afternoon traffic Crosby showed Ed Crosby Pilot Certification, Medical in Jacksonville,” Behrens said. anticipated to be between $23 business is conducted in the encounters have been to secure all outdoor garbage with For example, the ordinance raised in this year’s Relay for Life, jams of beach-bound motorists on local roads. Laboratory Technology, and The college board of trustees million and $24 million, accord- courthouse annex in Fort some photos and slides reported in the last five years. from friends and businesses, so far Early Saturday afternoon, southbound traffic a bear-resistant refuse container, would require that bird feeders be Courtesy photo Medical Assisting (Advanced) last month accepted a proposal Walton Beach, but the new indicating that the population of A few other encounters have was moderately backed up at the Mid-Bay ing to county Public Works except when being placed at the suspended on a cable or other exceeds $10,000, but he wants to Bluewater Bay resident with a Medical Assisting spe- for Emerald Coast Aviation of black bears in Florida, as well as Bridge toll plaza. Some beachgoers avoided the Director Jason Autrey. This courthouse in the county seat been reported in other parts of the curb on pickup days. device to make them inaccessible raise even more. Raimund Herden, 85, walked Crestview to provide airplanes, in and around Valparaiso, has crowds by relaxing bayside at uncrowded White cialist certificate. includes all engineering, archi- will house four courtrooms. city, particularly near the northern —Feeding of bears, whether to bears, and the area below such The amount raised includes over 26 miles in six hours to maintenance and hangar space been increasing in recent years, as Point. Beacon photos by Mike Griffith The community college is tectural, materials, construction, Occupying space within the shore of Toms Bayou. Such intentional or unintentional, feeders be kept free from the $1,600 from residents of raise money for American more housing developments have responding to projected demand for equipment used for pilot and construction management episodes typically end with the would also be prohibited, with accumulation of seed debris. American House at Bluewater Cancer Society programs dur- See COURTHOUSE, page A-7 brought humans into closer prox- for new pilots in the airline costs, Autrey said. Not includ- person, the bear, or both leaving penalties for violations. Residents Bay, an independent senior living ing the Niceville-Valparaiso industry over the next 10 years. Please see COLLEGE, page A-3 Please see BEARS, page A-2 Relay for Life earlier this month.

[email protected] The voice of Niceville, Bluewater Bay and Valparaiso since 1992 (850) 678-1080 [email protected] The voice of Niceville, Bluewater Bay and Valparaiso since 1992 (850) 678-1080 [email protected] The voice of Niceville, Bluewater Bay and Valparaiso since 1992 (850) 678-1080 [email protected] The voice of Niceville, Bluewater Bay and Valparaiso since 1992 (850) 678-1080 Police Police B Police Police

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The annual Fourth of July fire- Dad’s faith moves mountains Three school works show over Boggy board seats School board Last of Doolittle
s Contests for three Full day of fun for the 4th Bayou is scheduled to begin A wounded vet
s new lessons of marriage, fatherhood are at stake at about 8:45 p.m., following a in the Aug. Beacon Staff Writer and back, followed by a 200- dleboard and duathlon events. day of festivities at Lincoln Raiders makes a visit By Mike Griffith Mississippi, and had enlisted in degree in intelligence studies 28 election. The Twin Cities will cap a meter swim in Boggy Bayou, The fun run is free. Participants Park, Valparaiso. Beacon Correspondent In addition to hopefuls speak the Air Force in 2006, becoming a through the American Military seats on school board daylong celebration of America's also beginning and ending at the can sign up in advance through Beacon file photos By Mike Griffith special operations intelligence University, was accepted to OTS, Nathaniel Nelson and his those whose Beacon Correspondent Fatherhood is a challenge and daughter, Eva, 4, who had not Beacon Staff Candidates qualify for the the five-member Okaloosa birthday on today with a spectac- park. People interested in some- the city website (valp.org/com- By Mike Griffith Niceville Republican Women, signs are Beacon Correspondent a learning experience for any man analyst. He had met his future and was commissioned as a 2nd yet been born when her father ballot by paying a fee or by col- County School board, three to ular Independence Day fireworks thing a bit more slow-paced can munity/events.html), at city hall, Federated. Richard E. Cole, 102, last living member of the Okaloosa County voters will pictured, Okaloosa County School who undertakes it, but especially wife, Jennifer, prior to joining the lieutenant in 2011. was seriously wounded in lecting a certain number of voter run for the District 3 seat, and display over Boggy Bayou. join a 5K fun run that will begin or in person at the park the morn- Both Doolittle Raiders, the 80 American airmen who made have choices in all three elec- candidates Board candidates Linda Evanchyk so for Nathaniel Nelson. When service, and they were married in He was deployed twice more action in Afghanistan in 2013, signatures on qualifying peti- two to run for the District 5 seat, include Willie The fireworks show, which at 8 a.m. ing of the event. Same-day regis- candidates the first U.S. bombing raid on mainland Japan during tions for school board this year. and Joe his daughter, Eva, was born in 2009. to Afghanistan, and rose to the losing the use of his legs. tions. according to the county supervi- Harmon, will begin at about 8:45 p.m., will Those seeking a different tration for the duathlon is at 6:15 are running WWII, visited the Air Armament Museum on July 3. Nelson was deployed to rank of captain. During his third Courtesy photo However, candidates are Slusser December 2013, Nelson, a U.S. Board of Education sor of elections. In any event, Alby Clen- be preceded by a full schedule of challenge on the nation's 242nd a.m., at 7:45 a.m. for the fun run, for the Cole chatted with well-wishers and posed for pic- Air Force intelligence officer, was Afghanistan, where his perform- deployment, he was attached to a unopposed for two county com- dennin IV, birthday might be interested in and at 9:30 a.m. for the paddle- gave brief District 3 tures, as visitors bought copies of books about When the week-long ballot- there will be two new faces on events for all ages taking place in in a military hospital recovering ance impressed his superiors, who special operations team including mission seats, seats on two local and Linda the annual 3.2K stand-up paddle- board race. presenta- seat in a him and the famous air raid that boosted qualifying period for local-gov- the board, as two incumbents Lincoln Park, Valparaiso, starting from combat wounds that had left encouraged him to pursue a col- members of the Army 7th Special fire-district boards, and for two Evanchyk. board race beginning at 10 a.m. The activities planned for July tions and nonpartisan American morale during some of the darkest ernment candidates ended did not seek reelection. with the city's 40th annual him with his legs paralyzed, and lege degree and seek a commis- Forces Group (Airborne). During seats on the governing board of Beacon photo Registration forms must be com- 4 don't end there. Lincoln Park answered election days of the war while striking a blow against Friday, two people had qualified For District 1, the school duathlon, kicking off at 7 a.m. limited use of his arms and hands. sion through the Air Force Officer that deployment, he was hit by an the Bluewater Bay Municipal The duathlon consists of a 5K run pleted for each event, and there is boasts not only a sandy beach questions Aug. 28. Please see RAIDERS, page A-2 Services Unit. to run for the District 1 seat on from the Nelson had grown up in Training School. Nelson earned a Please see CONTESTS, page A-3 from the park to Lewis School $25 registration fee for the pad- Please see 4TH FUN, page A-3 Also Please see FAITH, page A-2 audience present at Richard Cole, 102, greets well-wisher during the Joe Slusser the July 2 at Armament Museum July 3. Inset, Lt. July 2 meet- meeting in Bluewater Bay were Cole before his bombing raid over Valparaiso Okaloosa Valp. officials ing of theLinda Evanchyk wartime Japan in 1942. Cooling off during a warm weekend Summer solstice weekend A sultry Saturday around town Please see SCHOOL, page A-3 leads county eyes bed tax eye spending Traffic in tax-roll ‘wish lists’ expansion By Mike Griffith Red, white and bayou Beacon Correspondent jams By Mike Griffith At a special June 19 meeting, Valparaiso city com- increases Beacon Correspondent Beacon Staff missioners considered “capital and new items” for Okaloosa County commissioners last week possible inclusion in the municipal budget for the Valparaiso had the highest growth rate in tax- discussed, but did not decide, whether to extend 2018-19. eased able values this year among Okaloosa County’s “bed taxes” to the entire county. The tax supports The items were for presentation only, with any 10 cities. the county’s Tourist Development Department as decisions reserved for future meetings. Bridge motorists According to projected figures issued by the well as some public safety and infrastructure The meeting did not deal with the Okaloosa County Property Appraiser, Valparaiso projects, to the entire county. entire budget for the coming year, diverted from posted an 8-percent jump in the total taxable Some commissioners expressed concern that but only with proposals for capital value of property within city limits, to $235 mil- putting such a measure on the November ballot improvements and hires of new local streets lion, outpacing second-place Crestview at 7.8 would lessen chances for voter approval of a personnel. Other budget issues will percent. planned commission-sponsored referendum rais- By Mike Griffith be discussed during later meetings Beacon Correspondent In third place was Niceville, where tax rolls ing the sales tax. and workshops. Weekend rerouting of beach- grew a projected 6.4 percent, according to the Currently, county bed taxes, formally called Directors of various city departments briefed bound traffic over the Mid-Bay appraiser’s office. the tourist development tax, are commissioners on their proposals. City Clerk Tammy Bridge to ease congestion on only charged to people lodg- Johnson described the proposals as “wish lists” from Meantime, Niceville slipped to fourth place neighborhood streets has been ings in the county’s desig- each department, while Police Chief Joe Hart among the county’s municipalities in total deemed a success so far, accord- nated tourist district, most- acknowledged that the proposals were “not written in assessed valuation, at $1.103 billion, about $6.3 ing to officials. ly situated along Gulf of stone,” and that not all such proposals would neces- million behind Crestview. Meantime, recent figures show Mexico beaches south of sarily be funded during the coming budget. The appraiser’s projections, which are subject that traffic over the 3.5-mile toll Choctawhatchee Bay. Commissioners listened to the department presen- Please see TAX, page A-8 During the commission span, and along the Spence meeting, Okaloosa County Please see SPENDING, page A-3 Parkway which connects the Tourist Development Director Jennifer Adams north end of the bridge with State told commissioners that there are more than Road 85 at a point north of Eglin set Niceville, continued at about the 1,000 hotel rooms in Okaloosa County that are Grand jury outside the bed tax district. pace expected, according to Mid- Communities in the Niceville-Valparaiso area Bay Bridge Authority Executive to unveil Director Van Fuller are outside the tax district, meaning that hotels clears Jackson and motels do not collect bed taxes for the county Fuller said that a recent coop- from their patrons. erative effort between the bridge new data By the same token, funds derived from such Remains concerned authority, Okaloosa County, and taxes may not be used to benefit areas outside the the county sheriff’s office bed tax district. The tax collected over $19.5 mil- over her behavior appeared to be successful in on jet noise lion in the fiscal year that ended Sept. 30, 2017. blocking access to the Spence Beacon Staff How much additional money it would collect by Beacon Staff Parkway from Lakeshore Drive Eglin Air Force Base said it would hold an a levy in previously untaxed areas of the county A state grand jury that heard evidence stemming during Saturday afternoons, a open house in Niceville Thursday to discuss a new was not discussed during the commission meet- from child-abuse allegations at an Okaloosa County time when, in the past, heavy traf- Air Force study of jet-noise levels in the commu- ing. public school said it found “insufficient evidence” to fic along Lakeshore and White nity. file criminal charges against anyone other than the Point Road has prevented local Please see BED TAX, page A-3 Eglin’s Air Installation Compatible Use Zone four school-district employees residents from being able to get to (AICUZ) study has been updated and study infor- previously arrested in the case. and from their neighborhoods. mation will be shared with the community at an In a report issued last week, The temporary road closures open house on June 14 from 4 to 7 p.m. at the the grand jury said its review of have directed parkway and bridge Northwest Florida State College, Student Services evidence presented by the office tourist traffic away from those Center (Bldg. 400), Room 302. of First Circuit State Attorney areas and directly to the Spence The 2018 Eglin AICUZ study addresses air- Bill Eddins did not warrant Parkway from State Road 20, thus craft operational noise, clear zones and accident- charging Okaloosa County allowing local residents easier potential zones associated with operations at the By the suns course, summer began June 21, the summer solstice, the years longest day. Many people were out and about this Saturday and Superintendent of School Mary access to and from their homes. Air Force installation. Sunday, enjoying the first official weekend of summer in their own way. A couple basked on the quiet bayside beach at White Point as resort- Beth Jackson. Fuller also said that recent fig- “The study has been accomplished to promote bound tourist cars jammed the approach to “the quickest way to Destin,” the Mid-Bay Bridge. A bright Saturday morning overlooking Rocky In a previous report, issued in Mary Beth ures regarding bridge and park- Activities during the weekend were typical of what the Niceville-Valparaiso area has to offer throughout the summer. At the Bluewater Bay Marina, families Jackson way traffic seemed to show a gathered in, near, and on the water. In Valparaiso, the Gonzalez, Wood, Forsythe, and Dooley families got together for a picnic in Lincoln Park. A softball long-term compatible land use on and in the vicin- Bayou was perfect for the outdoor wedding of Niceville residents John Bilton and Jennifer Wortham. A pair of cyclists rode through Bluewater February, the grand jury had A hot, humid weekend found many people out of doors last weekend enjoying nature s beauty. Brian, Linda, Faith, 8, and Elsa, 3, VanderWerf tournament in Niceville included teams from Air Force munitions maintenance units from throughout the Southeast. The Bluewater Bay tennis center ity of Eglin,” according to an Air Force statement. Bay. At Hurricane Grill in Bluewater Bay, Lewis School athletes washed cars to raise team money. A small dog took his human for a walk along asked Eddins to further investigate Jackson in the slight peak in March followed by visited Turkey Creek, Niceville. Members of the Bruce Fitness Saturday Morning Intensive workout group paused for a photo while cooling off was a place to play and socialize. The Baker family of Valparaiso, along with some visitors from New Mexico, spent Saturday riding a jet ski and relaxing Bluewater Boulevard. Father and daughter spent time on the golf course for a lesson on how to carry a childs golf bag. The NWFSC Gay-Straight case. a drop in April, but he said that “It provides data and land use recommenda- Customers of lodgings in the Niceville- after a workout. Members of the West Florida Regional Planning Council came to the Saturday farmer s market, Niceville, to help spread the Citziens gathered July 4 in Valparaiso and elsewhere to celebrate the nations independence. There was lots of activity on Boggy Bayou, as families fired up barbeques, along Toms Bayou. A swing can be a good place for thinking deep thoughts. A pond along the Bluewater Bay golf course was a great place to feed the Alliance sponsored an LGBTQ “Pride Walk” Saturday morning, which began and ended at Niceville High School. Among those participating was The latest grand jury report was issued last week this is most likely do to the timing Valparaiso area would be taxed at 5 percent if word of future transportation projects. Michael Sofield, of Haven House, is a new farmer s market merchant. Eric Duarte, 3, and his grandfa- Valparaiso held its 40th annual duathlon, and waterways filled with vessels of all kinds. During daylong festivities at Lincoln Park, kids played on the giant inflatables. turtles. Lincoln Park was a busy place for swimming, climbing and swinging on playground equipment, boating, and enjoying the beach. Jan Mullins, Niceville High School Gay-Straight Alliance faculty sponsor, holding banner with NHS graduate Mabelle Hart. Nine-year-old Harper following the requested review by the state attorney. of Easter and its proximity to Lee perfected her soap-bubble technique at waters edge. Beacon photos by Michael Griffith the countys bed tax is extended to the area. ther, Timothy Francis, were happy spending Saturday at Turkey Creek to ease the summer heat. Beacon photos by Paula Mims Attendees included Valparaiso Mayor Brent Smith and his wife, Janice. Food trucks were available for those who didn't want to cook out, and funnel cakes were a pop- Beacon photos by Michael Griffith Please see JET, page A-8 Beacon photo by Mike Griffith ular item. Roger Wildermuth showed off his patriotic style before the paddleboard race. From hamburgers to hot dogs to beef tips, the grills were busy all day. The Yen spring break during March and Please see JACKSON, page A-3 family (Alan, Lauren, Kalani, Noelle, Jolene) was ready for the duathlon. Capping the day was a spectacular fireworks display over the bayou. Beacon photos by Paula Mims Please see BRIDGE, page A-2 County to seek GOP governor hopeful State college sets VPS speeds College holds Owners get a break 10-year sales tax stumps in Valparaiso ban on tobacco use screening Santas elves set Christmas in July at Pavilion By Mike Griffith become Florida’s next gover- Beacon Staff The trustees acted at the urg- Beacon Staff line on tuition on sewer installation By Mike Griffith construction of a highway bypass Beacon Correspondent nor, he replied, “I am an Iraq Beginning next year, smokers ing of a student-led “tobacco- By Mike Griffith the Lake Pippin area, a 125-home Beacon Correspondent around traffic-clogged Crestview. Passenger-screening lanes Little Leaguers War veteran, I have a proven won’t be allowed to light up at free task force,” according to a Beacon Correspondent lakeside and bayside subdivision The Okaloosa County Last week’s vote doubles the Congressman Matt Gaetz, at Destin-Fort Walton Beach conservative record, and I have Northwest Florida State College. statement by Okaloosa County. Some other fees to increase off County Line Road and North Commission unanimously agreed length of a previously proposed who is seeking a second term as Airport have been increased to earn advance The installation of sewers to the support of President Donald The institution’s board of “The task force raised aware- Beacon Staff for in-state, credit-seeking stu- Lakesnore Drive, east of to extend the duration of a five-year sales tax. At an esti- District 1 representative, and three, from two. replace septic tanks in the Lake Trump.” trustees last week voted to ban ness of the need for a 100-per- The Northwest Florida State dents remains at $104.01 per Bluewater Bay. proposed half-percent mated $16 million a year, Congressman Ron DeSantis, The expansion took effect Pippin community is not expected Gaetz, whose district smoking and the use of all tobac- cent tobacco free campus poli- College Board of Trustees semester hour. to sectionals In a report last month to the county sales surtax a 10-year tax would take who is running for governor, last week in response to sharp to cost property owners any includes Niceville and co products on the main campus cy” and drafted the policy approved the institution’s Thus, the semester cost Okaloosa County Commission, from five years to 10, from taxpayers $160 appeared at a political rally increases in air-passenger traf- The Niceville Valparaiso Little League money directly, according to Valparaiso, said that he and the in Niceville and at its approved by the budget for the 2018-19 aca- for typical class load of 12 Littrell stated, “For well over the during their June 5 million, if approved by Saturday in Valparaiso. They fic at the county-operated ter- 12U All-Stars won the Florida Little Okaloosa County officials. president strongly favor satellite campuses in trustees, according to demic year with no increas- hours per semester would be past 20 years, (the county) has meeting in voters. met with supporters and made minal, also known by its air- League District 1 championship over The upfront costs usually paid DeSantis for the statehouse Fort Walton Beach, information provided es in tuition. $1,248, plus any course-spe- gone into many existing neighbor- Crestview. Commissioner brief speeches. Shalimar Thursday, 11-5. They will by the property owner in such over Putnam, DeSantis’ chief Crestview, DeFuniak by the county. Please see VPS, page A-2 It was the fourth year in cific fees. advance to the sectionals July 14. Back hoods and constructed sanitary The question of Graham Fountain said DeSantis, of Flagler County, Congressman Ron DeSantis, Republican candidate for governor, cases this time will be covered by Republican-primary opponent. Springs and Santa Rosa “Tobacco is the a row that the Niceville-based col- The base tuition figure has not row, from left: Coach Brian Johnson, a state grant, said Jeff Littrell, sewer systems that have taken lit- whether to impose a that by extending the tax, is a three-term congressman campaigned in Valparaiso Saturday. Beacon photo by Mike Griffith The winner of the GOP guber- Beach, effective Jan. 1. single greatest cause lege, working to boost sagging risen since 2014. Carter Wendt, Coach Jeremy Castor, erally hundreds of septic tanks out local-option sales tax, the county would be in a and a former Navy lawyer and county water and sewer director. natorial nomination, which at Gaetz, a Fort Walton Beach Phil Ehr, a retired Navy officer The policy, which of preventable dis- enrollment, did not raise tuition The college “remains commit- Tim Bradfield, Zachary Larson, Josh “The homeowners do not have of service, in order to improve which would boost the levy better position to leverage its own SEAL. He is running in the Castor, Caleb Shirah, Manager Charlie last 10 other candidates are also lawyer who faces GOP primary from Escambia County, and also will cover motor ease and premature Upper left, the scene prices. However many course ted to quality educational pro- to pay for anything, except might water quality in our lakes, bays, from 6 percent to 6.5 percent, will tax dollars to obtain state and fed- Aug. 28 Republican gubernato- Middlebrooks, Sport Middlebrooks, seeking, will face a Democrat challenges from Cris Dosev, a Jennifer Zimmerman, a Santa vehicles owned or death in the United last week after a third fees, charged for such add-ons as grams and services, and we want and bayous. These are very go before voters in a referendum eral grants for large projects, some rial primary against, among Matthew Sheppard. Front: Deangelo have to plant new flowers or bush- in November. At least seven former Marine aviator from Rosa County physician. leased by the college, “shall States,” said Shelby Brown, a screening lane was supplies and accident insurance, to help make education an achiev- expensive projects for the county.” Nov. 6. of which could take between five others, Florida Agricultural Shorts, Brandon Conk, Ayden Brack, es in right of way,” Littrell said. Democrats have announced for Escambia County, and John At Saturday’s Republican apply to all students, faculty, task force organizer. added. Inset, a busy will rise, some of them substan- able and affordable goal for all The Okaloosa County Once sewer service is made Meeting in Crestview June 5, and 10 years to complete. Commissioner Adam Putnam. Tristan Johnson, Jackson Burke. their party’s nomination. Mills, a former Navy aviator rally in Valparaiso, Gaetz said staff and other persons on As of December 2017, 36 day before the expan- tially. interested students,” said Brian Commission last month approved available, connection is mandato- the county commission acted after Commissioner Trey Goodwin, When asked by the Bay sion. “President Trump’s eyes lit from Walton County. DeSantis has been “one of the College property, regardless of colleges and universities in Not counting course-specific Pennington, trustees chairman. the first phase of a plan that will ry, so owners of existing homes hearing a staff report stating that who had expressed doubts during Beacon to state briefly why Florida banned tobacco use, 33 “College leadership will continue the additional money would be up” when told that DeSantis is Two Democrats are seeking the purpose for their visit.” It fees, the total lower-division eventually extend sewer service to generally have to pay about people should vote for him to also will ban tobacco advertising tuition and across-the-board fees to make every effort to reduce the Members of the Youth Group at St. Jude's Episcopal Church prepare to take presents to the Twin Cities Pavilion rest home for a needed for, among other things, Please see COUNTY, page A-2 running for governor, said the Dist. 1 nomination as well: Please see DESANTIS, page A-2 Please see COLLEGE, page A-3 Please see SEWER, page A-3 in college publications. Please see TUITION, page A-2 Christmas in July celebration.

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Blotter Bl Bl lotter otter otter The , page A-4 The , page The , page A-3 The , page A-6 BBaayy BBeeaaccoonn BBaayy BBeeaaccoonn A-6 BBaayy BBeeaaccoonn BBaayy BBeeaaccoonn 6 Pages, 1 Section, 5 Inserts Wednesday, July 18, 2018 50¢ 8 Pages, 1 Section, 3 Inserts Wednesday, July 25, 2018 50¢ 6 Pages, 1 Section, 3 Inserts Wednesday, August 1, 2018 50¢ 8 Pages, 1 Section, 6 Inserts Wednesday, August 8, 2018 50¢ SR 20 median facelift Valparaiso officials mull slated in Bluewater Two admit County taxes to rise Beacon Staff Trump Jr. no change in millage rate Public hear- A planned $80,000 project will beautify the high- bribery in ings on the Behind An estimated 1,000 attended a way medians on State Road 20 between Range Road By Mike Griffith ues, an unchanged millage rate millage rate of 5.024, a property Valparaiso as millage is stable headlines municipal political rally held Thursday in and Lancaster Drive, according to the Bluewater Bay Beacon Correspondent would result in a tax increase for owner pays the city a little over By Mike Griffith rent special-district millage rate of construction. Niceville for Republican candi- Municipal Services Benefit Unit. many owners. $5.02 for each $1,000 of taxable budget and Beacon Correspondent 0.2990, charged only to owners in The countywide property tax the wheel Eglin work During the first of two spe- tax rate are set With another years dates Matt Gaetz (top, far left), The state-funded project will transform the grassy value. unincorporated areas of the helps to fund countywide govern- GOP rally The rate could be revised for Sept. 6 and The Okaloosa County seeking reelection to Congress, medians into tree- and shrub-planted landscapes much Beacon Staff cial meetings held this month, county. ment services and operations, school bells in the offing, By Mike Griffith downward before it is finalized For example, the owner of a 20. Commission has pro- the Okaloosa County and Ron DeSantis (center, near like the MSBU median plantings just to the east, which Valparaiso city commissioners Beacon Correspondent left, blue shirt, tieless), a Florida A Niceville man has pleaded guilty to accepting in September, but, as practical home appraised at $200,000 Beacon photo by posed a countywide Although the proposed while the special tax levied in School District is looking were improved several years ago with the aid of private tentatively agreed to set the congressman running for gover- bribes from an Air Force contractor to approve phony matter, not higher. taxable value pays $1004.80 in Mike Griffith millage rate for next millage rates areunincorporated areas funds county to fill drivers seats in its During a Thursday night funds. city’s property tax millage rate nor. Headline speaker was invoices in a nine-year scam that cost taxpayers hun- The millage rate represents property tax to the city, in addi- year at 3.8308, unchanged, they would parks, recreation, and storm water bus fleet. The scene last rally at the Raider Arena on the The new project, for which no start date has yet for the coming 2018-19 fiscal Donald Trump Jr. (top center, dreds of thousands of dollars, according to federal the amount of tax Valparaiso tion to taxes paid to other such unchanged from the result in an increase in control in those areas. week in the Niceville High Northwest Florida State College been set, will be funded through the Florida prosecutors and court documents. year at no higher than 5.024, current rate. property-tax collections The millage rate sets the School parking lot. mixing with crowd), son of the The State Road 20 medians between Lancaster Drive and owners pay on the appraised, other government entities as campus, Florida Dist. 1 U.S. president. Armed security by Department of Transportation Landscape same as the current year. of more than 6 percent, due amount of property tax owed Beacon photo Range Road, Bluewater Bay, will be planted with trees and Jerry T. Vertefeuille, 53, of Niceville, and taxable value of their property Meeting Monday in Rep. Matt Gaetz was joined by Niceville and college police, the Discretionary Grant program, according to Bluewater Due to rising property val- Please see MILLAGE, page A-2 shrubs much like those that grace the medians just to the Christopher A. Carter, 37, of Fort Walton Beach, after exemptions. Thus, at a Crestview, the commission to rising taxable values of Florida gubernatorial candidate Florida Highway Patrol, and the east, inset. Beacon photos pleaded guilty on July 11 and June 28, respectively, also proposed to continue the cur- existing real estate and to new Please see MILLAGE, page A-2 Please see MEDIAN, page A-3 Ron DeSantis, as well as by U.S. Secret Service was tight at to conspiracy (to commit theft of honest services and Donald Trump Jr., eldest son of Northwest Florida State College, wire fraud) and President Donald Trump. site of the event. For some, the bribery of a public representative of the Trump pres- Interchange After a series of introduc- official, according to Trump Jr. idency seemed to be the top Fun in the sun tions by various local officials, Preparing for the school year documents filed in A busy weekend around town draw, though for different rea- the three gave a series of rousing U.S. District Court sons. Supporters included mem- eyed south to stump speeches to an enthusiastic audi- in Pensacola. In bers of a motorcycle group ence, in favor of their conserva- (below). Outside Raider Arena, addition, Vertefeuille tive brand of politics. others hoisted signs summariz- pleaded guilty to for Gaetz of bay bridge DeSantis, a Republican con- ing views one said are at odds obtaining and disclosing procurement information. Beacon Staff gressman from Flagler County, with those of President Trump The guilty pleas were announced by Christopher By Mike Griffith (bottom right). U.S. Rep Matt Gaetz said was the first of the three to P. Canova, U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Beacon Correspondent Donald Trump Jr. will appear at Beacon photos by Mike Griffith Florida. Sentencing hearings are scheduled for Sept. speak. He emphasized that he, No votes were taken at the July 19 meeting of a campaign rally Thursday in 26. like Gaetz, has a close working the Mid-Bay Bridge Authority, as only two board Niceville Court documents gave the following account: relationship with President members, James Neilson and Gordon Fornell, for the Vertefeuille, a former Air Force noncommis- Trump, and that the president attended the meeting at Niceville City Hall, thus Dist. 1 sioned officer, was a federal government contracting has endorsed both their candida- falling short of a quorum of the MBBA’s five- Republican cies. officer representative for the 96th Test Wing congress- member governing board. DeSantis said that he sup- Maintenance Group at Eglin Air Force Base. His man. Neilson and Fornell were briefed by Bryant T. ports Trump’s administration, duties included overseeing maintenance work and The Paulk, a representative of the Florida Department because the president has kept approving purchases and invoices. event, to be of Transportation, on potential plans for building promises to appoint conserva- In 2007, Vertefeuille used inside information to held in the an elevated interchange at the intersection of tive constitutionalist judges to sports Danny Wuerffel Way (State Road 293) and U.S. the Supreme Court, something Please see EGLIN, page A-3 arena at Highway 98, in Destin south of the Mid-Bay Matt Gaetz that DeSantis, as governor, said Northwest Bridge. he would do for Florida’s Florida Supreme Court. Please see BRIDGE, page A-3 State Fire district College, DeSantis also said that if will also elected governor, he plans to feature mandate E-Verify, a system for eyes millage U.S. Rep. employers to check the legal Ron U.S. residency of people they By Mike Griffith hire, and that he will not allow Beacon Correspondent DeSantis, according sanctuary cities in Florida. He East Niceville fire commissioners discussed the to the also promised to reform fire district’s budget for fiscal year 2018-19, and set Donald Trump Jr. Gaetz cam- Florida’s education system, a tentative millage rate of 3.0176, the same as the paign. DeSantis, a Flagler beginning by eliminating such current rate. County Republican, is a candi- programs as Common Core. He The millage determines the amount of property said he supports civics educa- tax paid by each property owner in the East Please see GAETZ, page A-6 tion, and that he wants to “get Niceville Fire District, which provides fire and res- If a contemplated interchange is built in the Constitution into our class- cue protection to the unincorporated community Destin to ease congestion, it could result in rooms in a big way.” between the city of Niceville’s eastern limits and more traffic on the Mid-Bay Bridge, according Valparaiso to a state transportation official. Beacon photo the shore of Rocky Bayou. Please see TRUMP, page A-3 The final millage rate could be set lower during further budget deliberations in the coming months. mulls hike At a rate of 3.0176, each East Niceville property owner pays $3.0176 in tax for each $1,000 of Niceville man in millage appraised, taxable value of their By Mike Griffith property. For example, the owner of a home appraised at Beacon Correspondent Sewer board receives dies in crash Valparaiso city commission- Valparaiso trims spending $200,000 value, after home- Beacon Staff stead exemption and other ers are keeping open the option A Niceville man was fatally injured when his a favorable audit discounts, would pay $603.52 of a property tax hike for the motorcycle collided with a pickup truck on State requests to balance budget to the East Niceville Fire coming fiscal year, at least for Road 20 in Walton County, according to the By Mike Griffith were no financial problems or District next year, in addition to now. Florida Highway Patrol. Beacon Correspondent instances of noncompliance with By Mike Griffith missioners continued to cut They also cut $410,000 in any taxes owed to such other entities During a special budget An FHP report identified the man as David During their monthly meeting state regulations revealed during Beacon Correspondent some spending requests from water and wastewater spending, as Okaloosa County and the Okaloosa County meeting on July 24, commis- Allen Lowitz, 50. on Aug. 2, members of the the audit process. He said that ing consulting firm employed by During a budget workshop city departments–a process that to include funds that would have School District. sioners agreed to tentatively set Lowitz was driving a motorcycle east on State Niceville-Valparaiso Regional financially, the sewer board has the sewer board, said that recent held Aug. 1, Valparaiso city began during previous work- paid for converting water wells Fire commissioners Ed Dunbar and C.J. the property tax millage rate for Road 20 near Windswept Boulevard, east of Sewer Board received a favorable had “a good year,” with the value trends at the regional sewer plant commissioners continued their shops and budget meetings. from oil to water lubrication, McEntire, the fire district’s chairman and treasurer, the 2018- fiscal year at 5.2813, Freeport, at about 1 p.m. July 18 when the crash Area residents were busy preparing for the upcoming school year, taking part in fishing fun, and golfing for a cause. The Niceville High School marching band held its report regarding their recent annu- of its net assets increased by about in Niceville are positive. He said process of trying to work out a They trimmed an estimated new valve insertion equipment respectively, estimated that at the current millage a little more than 5 percent It was a busy weekend for school fundraising events and other activities. The Niceville High School and Ruckel Middle School dance teams conducted occurred, according to an FHP report. last day of band camp, preparing the new halftime show. As practice drew to a close, parents were invited to take part. The first home football game is scheduled for Aug. al financial audit. $175,000, for a current total of that nitrogen levels in effluent, the budget that matches spending $150,000 for paving and for water wells, lift station rate, property tax revenue will be about $1,070,483 For some visitors to the Niceville area, the weekend began early. On Thursday, participants in the “Road to the Beach” national softball tournament, of above the current millage rate yard sales to raise money for their activities during the upcoming year. Lewis School and Plew Elementary School personnel collected school supplies Lowitz began to pass two eastbound vehicles 24 against Lincoln (Tallahassee). The Niceville Police Department held its first Charity Golf Tournament in Bluewater Bay, to benefit elementary school students and teach- Kevin Bowyer, of the Warren $7.4 million. treated water discharged from the with revenue for fiscal year improving roads, $8,000 for upgrade and rehabilitation, and at the Niceville Walmart for United Way's Cram the Van drive, which offers classroom materials to schoolchildren for the upcoming school year. On July in the coming 2019 fiscal year, which begins on the U.S. Specialty Sports Association, competed at the Niceville softball complex. Pictured is a game between teams from Ohio and Georgia. At Lions of 5.024. and failed to see a truck driven by a 25-year-old ers. Center right, the Golfin' Chicks before teeing off. Bottom right, (left to right): Fritz Johnson, Bluewater Bay golf director, Carolyn McAllister, Plew Elementary principal, Averett accounting firm, said the In other business during the plant, have been trending down- 2019, which begins on Oct. 1, purchasing a new John Deere lining of some wastewater 28, personnel from Ruckel and from Edge and Bluewater elementary schools will take their turn in the Cram the Van drive. Okaloosa County public Oct 1. This, they said, would be about $76,000 Park, watercraft ranging from pool toys to kayaks came and went on Boggy Bayou. Work continued at the Niceville senior center, which city officials say They emphasized, however, Pensacola man, also traveling east, that was turn- Kristina Clark, Edge Elementary assistant principal, and Mark Higdon, Niceville policeman. The Bluewater Bay Marina held its annual Pinfish Grand Nationals, in which audit resulted in “an unmodified meeting, Glenn Stephens, an engi- 2018. Gator, and $10,000 for purchas- pipes. schools will begin classes Aug. 13. Meantime, their school days behind them, the Life Runners group took part in a run/walk at Turkey Creek Park. more than revenue collected during the current, is nearing completion. Parents kept watch over children playing in the shallows between the shore and the docks of Bluewater Bay Marina. At Lauras kids and adults competed in two-person teams. Caleb and Timmy Hicks reeled in the champion catch. Top center, Noah Williams, 6, and his dad had a great time fishing. that this tax rate is merely tenta- ing left onto Windswept, the report stated. opinion,” which means that there neer with Poly Inc., an engineer- Please see SEWER, page A-2 During the workshop com- ing a 54-inch mower. Please see BUDGET, page A-3 Beacon photos by Paula Mims Pet and Horse Supplies, people came to a dog-adoption event, hoping to find new “best friends.” Wayne Paizes, of Choctaw Beach, and his 18-month- Top right, the Burnette family. Beacon photos by Paula Mims Please see MILLAGE, page A-3 old son, Jack, cooled off in a pool near Oakmont Drive in Bluewater Bay. Beacon photos by Mike Griffith The motorcycle collided with the left side of the truck, whose driver was not injured. Please see HIKE, page A-6 NWF State earns County seeks funds bonus for advances Girl Scouts earn top honors Land-use Chamber inducts four Brushing Beacon Staff Bronze category. Schools that to control bears petitions up the Northwest Florida State fall in the bronze or purple cate- By Mike Griffith munities as well. gories do not receive additional College said it expects to Beacon Correspondent According to a report from to be aired into its hall of fame state-allocated performance dol- asphalt receive nearly $500,000 in addi- All dolled up county staff, “Bear-related calls Beacon Staff tional state funds by improving lars. The Okaloosa County The Niceville Valparaiso Jessie Alma Edge, and Gordon humor and strength. Yardsticks in the Carol Whittenburg, Niceville, received by the FWC from The Niceville City Council on Chamber of Commerce recently Fornell. She worked as a medical social Niceville High School sen- its educational performance. with help from her grandchil- Commision approved a plan to Okaloosa County have increased Aug. 14 is scheduled to consider The bonus was earned Performance-Based Funding apply to the Florida Fish and inducted four leaders who made An Alabama native, Nancy worker and patient educator at iors, including Faith Gray dren Killiam, Liam, and Lily dramatically since 2008. An four petitions concerning land use, broad and lasting contributions to Grigsby and her husband, Bill, Fresenius Medical Care where her (standing) and Daijha Lee, because the Niceville college model include student retention, Whittenburg, ages 4, 5, and 9, Wildlife Conservation completion of a degree or cer- average of 38% including the rezoning of a water- the community into the Civic Hall moved to Niceville in 1985, where patients and co-workers were part were among those painting advanced to the Silver category presented a collection of doll Commission (FWC) their senior parking spots tificate, job placement or of all bear-relat- front office property on Bayshore of Fame. she immediately immersed herself of her extended family. There she in the Florida College clothes she made to the for $25,000 in ed calls received Drive to allow residential use. at Niceville High School continuing education for Childcare Network center, The honorees were the late in the community, emboding the started and maintained one of the System’s Performance- “BearWise Funding” from Okaloosa Walter and Jerry Spence, offi- This office tract fronting Boggy Bayou on Bayshore Drive would be last week. It is the second freshly minted graduates, Valparaiso. She made the cloth- to keep bears out of Nancy Myers Grigsby, the late definition of a servant’s heart as Based Funding Model. County by FWC cers of Spence Brothers rezoned to allow residential use if the Niceville City Council grants Please see CHAMBER, page A-2 year that seniors have “For the first time and wages of new grads. ing appropriate to the culture garbage cans in the the property owners petition. Beacon photo Walker Vester Spence, the late she went about life with grace, been allowed to put their list “In Properties, request that their since the (2013) incep- The college showed represented by a given doll. Poquito Bayou resi- stamps on the spots. She said she hopes her work Garbage” as the tion of the Performance- improvements by three dential community. office properties at 301mercial property at 1601 and rear setback on their R-1 lot as Classes will begin Monday of the four yardsticks, will help children learn about reason for the Bayshore Drive, totaling a little 1603 Partin Drive North be opposed to the required 25 feet. for Okaloosa County dis- Based Funding Model the role of clothing, and “to Although the call, in some in the Florida College System, but declines in completion rates. under an acre, be rezoned from annexed into the city with a zon- The change would allow con- trict schools. For Rocky learn respect for the dolls, and project is expected to years this per- Bayou Christian School, “Since 2013, we have lost The Girl Scout Council of the Florida Panhandle held a Silver and Gold Award ceremony in Niceville. Pictured in the left photo are C-2, General Commercial, to R- NWF State has been designated for themselves and each take place in Poquito ing of C-2, Generalstruction of a sunroom. classes begin today. centage rises to Katrin Woods of Niceville Troop 2111, who received the Gold Award, the highest award in Girl Scouts, and Katherine Veth and 3, One- or Multi-Family. The to the Silver category,” said the approximately $1.3 million in other.” Beacon photo by Michael Griffith Bayou, communities Commercial, and a Future Land Douglas Hutcheson requests Students at Collegiate High almost 50%.” Gabrielle Jackson of Troop 2111, who earned Silver awards. Katrin's Gold project included planting fruit trees and a butterfly garden, college’s president, Devin new funding that we would have parcels are adjacent to a new Use of Commercial. that an estate-owned one-acre lot return tomorrow. in and around Niceville and “Bears are attracted to devel- building a covered bench for the garden, and designing and building a picnic table with removable benches for wheelchair access Stephenson. “This is a signifi- received had we been in the waterfront municipal park called Charles and Page Caggiano, at 220 Niceville Ave. be rezoned Beacon photos by Paula Mims Valparaiso have also experienced oped areas where food is easily for the Twin Cities Pavilion assisted living facility. She is one of only 10 scouts from the Panhandle who earned the Gold Award this cant move upward.” Silver or Gold categories human-bear encounters, so what- Niceville Landing. 428 Lilac Ct., request a special from R-1, Residential Single instead of Bronze,” said Randy accessible, most often from unse- year. Pictured in the right-hand photo, Gracen Eddy and Monica Broome from Niceville Troop 748 received Silver awards. They are Until now, the college has ever is learned from the project shown with Troop Leader Donna Dorton. Billy Mosteferis requests his exception to the city Land Family, to R-1B, Residential ranked no higher than the Please see BONUS, page A-2 may be applicable in those com- Please see BEARS, page A-2 0.17-acre lot behind his com- Development Code for a 15-foot Single Family. Nancy Grigsby Walker Spence Jessie Alma Edge Gordon Fornell

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Okaloosa may seek Computer glitches School resource officers Voters set the stage Barefoot An Okaloosa County sheriffs A troublesome are issued heavier arms deputy patrols a burglar sought new transit services Okaloosa County has begun a delay toll processing changeover in Niceville High for November election By Mike Griffith U.S. military’s M4 auto- In rampages such as The Walton County Sheriffs Office is process that may result in a Florida s School softball Beacon Staff County Democrat Jennifer Beacon Correspondent matic rifle is needed to the one in the Broward seeking a shoeless burglar. Images of a By Mike Griffith The plan, which the commis- The new plan follows a long new transit operator, in the By Mike Griffith systems by the state agency that operated by a unit of the Florida SunPass com- game last spring. Zimmerman in the Nov. 6 gener- A total of 35,254 ballots were masked, barefoot break-in artist were Beacon Correspondent sion initiated Aug. 7, calls for a history of struggles by the county face of complaints about the Beacon Correspondent collects SunPass highway and Department of Transportation, puterized toll- Get used to the sight of deputy prepare police to cope County city of The supervisor of cast in Okaloosa County in the al election. Zimmerman gar- captured on a security camera inside The Okaloosa Countycounty committee to draft a to provide tax-subsidized public existing system. Beacon photo Although officials say the bridge tolls, also has caused took much longer than state offi- collection sys- sheriffs carrying military-style with today’s threats, Parkland, or one that the countys Aug. 28 primary election, a 26.5- nered 60 percent in a two-way that Boggy Bayou gas station on State Commission moved toward seek- request for proposals, which transportation at a cost it can cash-flow problems for some cials had anticipated. This tem has caused rifles at school football games, Venuti explained. “We’re killed 58 and injured school resource Florida SunPass system has percent turnout, according to the Democratic primary. Road 20, just east of Seminole, at about ing a new contract to provide would then be approved by com- afford. customers. caused some customers’ bills to cash-flow prob- said Lt. Gary Venuti, the Okaloosa not living in the same 851 at a country-music officers says that finally cleared a payment-pro- this year, county supervisor of elections. There will be two new faces 4:25 a.m. Aug. 29, according to the sher- public transportation services missioners, and to solicit bids The current county transit sys- At an Aug. 16 meeting of the be delayed, then to arrive all at lems for some County Sheriff’s Office school world we used to,” he festival in Las Vegas in cessing backlog, the Mid-Bay deputies may Among notable results, U.S on the five-member Okaloosa iffs office. He smashed the front door throughout the county. from companies interested in tem provides regular, scheduled bridge authority’s governing once, which may have caused motorists. said. School shootings October 2017, attack- Bridge Authority is still await- resource officer program supervi- carry rifles at ath- Rep. Matt Gaetz, Fort Walton County School Board come with a rock, tried to get into a cabinet The current contractor, which providing public transportation, bus routes among stops through- board, authority Executive late fees or overdrafts to some Beacon photo such as the Aug. 14 mas- ers have used semi- ing traffic and revenue figures sor. letic events. Beach, running with the endorse- Matt Gaetz Jennifer November. under the register, and ran off with some has been the object of service both through scheduled bus serv- out the county. The service is Director Van Fuller said that the bank or credit card accounts. sacre at Marjory automatic long guns, Zimmerman for the last couple of months. Venuti addressed members of Lt. Gary Venuti Beacon photo by ment of President Donald In the District 3 contest for cigarettes within a few seconds. complaints, sharply disputed the ice and on-demand door-to-door largely used by people who, for The backlog, which followed changes earlier this summer in Meanwhile, traffic and rev- the Niceville-Valparaiso Chamber Stoneman Douglas High overmatching police Paula Mims Anyone with information may call the Trump, won the Republican Mills, both of Pensacola. school board, Linda Evanchyk, move, warning that increased service for people who are trans- one reason or another, are unable the recent change of computer the SunPass computer system, of Commerce in Niceville Aug. School in Parkland, which killed officers carrying only sidearms. Fort Walton Beach, defeated Joe sheriffs office at (850) 892-8186 or Please see TOLL, page A-3 nomination for a second term as Gaetz, who districtwide anonymously at (850) 863-TIPS. costs would come of it. portation-disadvantaged. Please see TRANSIT, page A-3 21. 17 and wounded a like number, Police must be prepared to Slusser, Baker, and Alby “have changed everything.” Florida District 1 Congressman, received 65 percent of the pri- Walton County Sheriff s Office Firepower such as that of the Please see OFFICERS, page A-3 defeating Cris Dosev and John School mary vote, will face Santa Rosa Please see ELECTION, page A-4 School bells ring countywide Community sports in full swing Early voting College chief board has begun Welcoming back fall sports Bidding farewell to summer Niceville hopefuls earns bonus eyes sewer in primary for year’s rate hike speak Beacon Staff By Mike Griffith By Mike Griffith Early voting has begun in Okaloosa County Beacon Correspondent for Florida’s Aug. 28 primary election. achievements Beacon Correspondent Possible increases in sewer- Bran McAllister and Diane Locally, three school board seats are at stake. By Mike Griffith Beacon Correspondent service rates by the city of Kelley, the two candidates for the Also on Twin Cities area ballots are Niceville will be discussed by the District 5 seat on the Okaloosa Republican and Democratic primaries for the The trustees of Northwest Florida State city council Thursday. County School Board, spoke dur- Dist. 1 seat in Congress, as well as for the College have awarded $32,285 in “incentive Under consideration is a pro- ing an Aug. 6 forum in Bluewater statewide offices of governor, attorney general, compensation” to college President Devin posed 2-percent hike in sewer Bay, sponsored by the Niceville and agriculture commissioner. No incumbent is Stephenson. The bonus, approved Aug. 21, is rates, which would help fund a Republican Women, Federated. running for any of the three state posts at stake. intended to reward Stephenson for excellent per- proposed 3.4-percent increase in The District 5 seat is held by There is also a primary for the Republican nom- formance during his first year as the institution’s water and sewer department Melissa Thrush, who did not run ination for U.S. Senate. chief executive. spending during the fiscal year for a third four-year term. The Early voting, which began Saturday, will be Trustees Chairman Brian Pennington said that will begin Oct. 1. race will be decided Aug. 28. held 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily through Saturday at that during the past year, under Stephenson’s City Clerk Dan Doucet said Early voting starts Aug. 18. five locations, including Niceville City Hall. leadership, the college has met or exceeded 96 planned upgrades to the city’s McAllister stressed his back- Voters may also cast ballots by mail. On elec- percent of the goals and “key performance indi- aging sewer system include repair ground as a 1974 distinguished tion day, Aug. 28, voters may exercise their fran- cators” established when he became president. or replacement of some lift sta- graduate of the Air Force chise at their assigned polling place 7 a.m. to 7 Stephenson’s contract, said Pennington, tions, and of radio control systems Academy, p.m. authorizes the trustees to award him up to 15 per- that allow city officials to know Air Force The outcome of three nonpartisan races for cent of his base salary as incentive compensation when such pumps are functioning F-15 the Okaloosa County Board of Education will be for meeting or exceeding goals set by the properly and when they need instructor decided. trustees. The $32,285, said Pennington, repre- maintenance. pilot and For the District 1 seat, the school board can- sents 14.4 percent of Stephenson’s $224,000 Doucet said a city consultant squadron didates are Willie Harmon of Fort Walton Beach annual salary, to which it is added. would brief the city council on the command- and incumbent Lamar White of Shalimar. In discussion preceding the unanimous vote need for a rate increase during a er, systems to authorize the extra compensation to For District 3, the candidates are Alby D. municipal budget hearing at 6 engineer Stephenson, Trustee Craig Barker initially sug- Clendennin IV of Crestview, Linda Evanchyk of p.m. Sept. 6 at city hall. and mathe- gested that Stephenson should receive 90 per- Fort Walton Beach, and Joe Slusser of Baker. matician, Bran McAllister cent of the maximum incentive pay allowed. Longtime incumbent Rodney Walker did not business Trustee Charlotte Flynt, however, said that seek another term. Gulf Power leader, and because Stephenson had led the college to university For District 5, the school board candidates are accomplish 50 of 52 specific goals and key per- says prices instructor in Diane Kelley of Valparaiso and Bran McAllister formance indicators, he should receive 96 per- strategy, Please see VOTING, page A-6 cent of the maximum incentive pay allowed. are set to fall leadership, Trustee Shane Abbott said he believed that manage- Stephenson’s performance has been excellent, Beacon Staff ment, and Gulf Power said it plans to politics. He Please see COLLEGE, page A-5 cut its rates for 2019 and holds beyond by about $9.6 million degrees in on an annual basis. mathemat- Diane Kelley The proposed reduction, ics, history, filed with state regulatory engineering administration, and a authorities last week, reflects Ph.D in applied management. savings from income-tax cuts Kelley, who has a doctorate in enacted by Congress last year, education as well as multiple cer- the company said. tifications in various aspects of The decrease would come on education and management, the heels of a previous tax-sav- stressed her more than 30 years of ings-related rate cut of $103 Local school athletes were busy last week, with fall sports on everyone's mind. The Niceville High School volleyball team earned its fourth win of the season The new school year began on different days for different students. At Rocky Bayou Christian School, Niceville, students returned Aug. 8, while at Bluewater Elementary experience as a classroom Saturday against Lincoln Tallahassee, 25-23, 23-25, 28-26 and 25-15. In Niceville's football opener Friday night, Lincoln won, 27-15, overcoming the Eagles million for 2018. In addition, School and other public schools in the Okaloosa County School District, classes began Monday. Students who arrived by bus were met by teachers and staff members, teacher, school principal, strate- Practice for the upcoming PAL soccer season began last week for players ages 3 to 18. The regular season starts the first week of September, Gulf Power recently filed a sep- lasting through mid-October. A total of 837 children will play on 87 teams. There are an additional 110 children registered for the Start Smart halftime lead. Northwest Florida State College was the site of the first cross-country meet of the season for area high schools and middle schools Saturday. who gave directions and answered questions. Some students arrived early, brought by their parents. Kathy Chlebowski, a first grade teacher, greeted Kimberli Sarsfield, College President Devin Stephenson, gic planner, and private consult- Soccer program for 3- to 5-year-olds. Separately, in its 38th year, Niceville Football Little League teams began to show their might Saturday in Early voting in Florida s 2018 primary election Both the Niceville High girls and boys teams won the team 4x1.5 mile relays. In the 5,000-meter open race, the Niceville girls placed six runners in the top The Labor Day weekend traditionally marks the unofficial end of summer. Undaunted by the possible approach of a tropical storm, in the Twin Cities area people cele- arate request with the Florida and her student Callen Sarsfield. A school resource officer was on hand to help provide safety and security at Bluewater Elementary. Jennifer Drinnon, a classroom assis- center, chatted with trustees Don Litke ant to school systems. Niceville at the Panhandle Youth Football Association's Jamboree. Niceville fields six teams this year, including 130 players and 30 cheerleaders. will continue through Saturday at five loca- 10, and the boys eight in the top 10. In its season football opener, Ruckel Middle School was defeated by the Destin Marlins Thursday in Niceville. Ruckel brated the long weekend in a variety of ways. At the Bluewater Bay Marina, people of all ages enjoyed the water, whether in it, on it, or contemplating it from a dock. At Public Service Commission to tant, and student Lexi Johnson waited as more schoolchildren arrived. Handshakes abounded as students, often accompanied by parents, found their classrooms and and Charlotte Flynt before a trustees Candidates were asked what Players are divided into four age levels, from 5- and 6-year-olds, to 11- and 12-year-olds. The regular season starts this Saturday at Twin Oaks tions in Okaloosa County, including this one had a 7-6 lead at halftime, but Destin scored two second-half touchdowns to win 22-7. Beacon photos by Paula Mims Lincoln Park, Valparaiso, people held picnics, swam, boated, and built the occasional sand castle. Cyclists and dog-walkers were out and about during the sunny weath- reduce prices based on reduced met their teachers for the new school year. Michelle Strickland, a second grade teacher, snapped a first-day picture for the Phillips family: Heather Phillips (a fourth grade meeting Aug. 21. Beacon photo by Mike Griffith er that prevailed most of the holiday weekend. Toms Bayou and Boggy Bayou were popular spots for water sports. Golf was another favorite activity. The T-pier in teacher), Blair Phillips, and their students Carter and Macy. Meantime, student Ella Allard and Becky Miller, a fifth grade teacher, were anxious to start the day. are the most important things that and runs through the end of October. Beacon photos by Paula Mims at Niceville City Hall. Election Day is Tuesday, fuel, conservation and environ- Valparaiso attracted anglers of all ages. Beacon photos by Mike Griffith Beacon photos by Mike Griffith Please see SCHOOL, page A-2 Aug. 28. Beacon photo mental costs. Hauler gets picky Niceville Niceville Strong Student charged Sewage fouls Toms Bayou Valp. wrestles about recyclables Bearing hotel Beacon Staff department said. that $60,000 has been added to holds prayer meeting with making threat Valparaiso Public Works next year’s city budget for relat- By Mike Griffith erly recycle waste from their NHS students The Florida Department of Beacon Staff asked for a third student’s comfort hosted Health issued a health advisory Director Nathan Kelley said the ed electrical upgrades. with finances Beacon Correspondent homes and businesses. spill occurred when a pump “The city is complying with- Advancing a movement
The company that picks up During one such briefing to the A Ruckel Middle School stu- address, saying he planned to By Mike Griffith for Toms Bayou in Valparaiso By Mike Griffith rent millage rate of 5.024. receive VHP “stab” the subject of his query Beacon Correspondent due to a sewage spill Monday. failed and an automated alert in the regulatory measures and By Cynthia Richardson those struggling with the issues recyclables in much of Okaloosa Niceville City Council Aug. 14, dent was charged with threaten- Beacon Correspondent To make up the shortfall, the and “blow him up.” A 3-year-old shaken up in a traffic Trump Jr. About 60,000 gallons of raw system failed to sound the alarm practices of cleaning up the area Beacon Correspondent addressed on Thursday. County, says it is finding it harder Ducas said that much of the recy- ing to blow up another student’s city commission could choose Medal of Honor The suspect allegedly went on accident was calmed by a teddy bear sewage gushed from a manhole in time for the resulting over- and water quality monitoring,” The Niceville High School Said Perian: "It's not just an Valparaiso city commission- to make money on the business. clable material collected in home, according to a report by By Mike Griffith to spend some of the city’s to say he knew how to make C4 presented by a Niceville policeman. for about 90 minutes after a flow to be averted. Kelley said Kelley said. “There have been auditorium was standing room event, Niceville Strong. We're ers discussed the pros and cons As result, the company is Niceville and elsewhere through- The Niceville High School chapter of the the Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Beacon Correspondent reserve fund of about $1.2 mil- explosives and had some at On Aug. 22, as a minivan driven by municipal wastewater pump the fault has been corrected and only Thursday night. At least 750 hoping it will become a move- of either raising the city’s prop- becoming more out the U.S. is shipped Veterans Heritage Project recently Office. Depending on your political Please see BAYOU, page A-3 lion, or raise Valparaiso’s home. Kathleen Kossler, of Destin, was prepar- failed early Monday just west of people crowded the room to sup- ment. We want this to gain erty tax millage rate or dip- picky about what to other countries for earned the Congressional Medal of The Okaloosa County views, Donald Trump Jr., eldest property tax millage Honor Society 2018 Citizen Honors Under police questioning, the ing to make a left turn from College the Hidden Cove townhomes on port Niceville Strong, a communi- momentum. We want there to be a ping into reserve funds waste it will accept processing, notably Sheriff’s Office on Aug. 29 son of President Donald Trump, While lodging at the Holiday Inn Express in Niceville during his visit rate. While dipping Community Service Hero Award. The boy admitted making the state- Boulevard, it was struck from behind by the north side of the bayou, ty prayer rally to raise awareness Crestview Strong, and a Panama to balance the next in the yellow-topped China, which until arrested the 14-year-old Niceville may or may not be a brilliant busi- to the city in early August, Donald Trump Jr. paused for a photo with City Strong, and a Fort Walton municipal budget. into the reserve Veterans Heritage Project made the ments, but said he didn’t mean it. a cargo van. Her young daughter, hotel owners Reema and Tushar Patel and hotel sales director according to a city report on the and hope concerning those com- Selena Chavis, Jeremy Smith, James Ross and Amanda Grandy curbside recycling recently has pur- boy on a charge of false reporting ness or political leader, but he did Strong, a Pensacola Strong. We Despite recent fund would elimi- award based on the impactful service to When asked what he meant by Alaiza, was in the minivan’s back seat. Colleen Smith. Courtesy photo mishap. bating drug addiction, alcoholism, were among the organizers of the Niceville Strong rally and bins that customers chased more recycla- veterans and youth in the states of with intent to deceive, mislead, or stay at the local Holiday Inn Beacon photo by Cynthia Richardson cuts to spending nate the need for a “blowing up,” he replied, “You No one in either vehicle was injured. At least some of the sewage mental illness, and violence. This want communities to take up this prayer meeting Thursday. set out for collection. ble material than other Florida, Arizona and Illinois. Front row misinform concerning planting a Express during his recent visit to tax rate hike, it know, Osama bin Laden style,” Following the crash, Patrolman “We were very lucky to have Matt Gaetz, and gubernatorial flowed into the bayou, accord- was its second year. same passion for empowering requests from vari- Pamela Ducas, countries. from left: Angelee Morales Rios, bomb or deadly explosives, a sec- Niceville. Marello, the principal of Niceville "eradicate" drugs in schools. The might also leave the and made reference to crashing a Christopher Fordham gave little Alaiza him,” said Tushar Patel, who hopeful Ron DeSantis. ing to the health department. "I don't know about y'all, but their communities on their knees." ous city department public sector manag- Now, however, Hannah Sjostrom, and Gretchen ond degree felony, according to “Of all hotels on the beach in High School, regarding instances worst parent-teacher meeting he city vulnerable in the plane into the residence. the fuzzy friend to comfort her. owns the Niceville Holiday Inn The first hint that Trump The city said a cleanup has been I'm ready to do something about She spoke alongside those who heads, the currently er for Waste China has become Erickson, Veterans Heritage Project rep- the report, which gave the follow- Destin and Fort Walton to choose of drug usage in schools. Marello had to have, he said, was attending event of a hurricane or A sheriff’s spokeswoman said "She was traumatized by the ordeal Express with his wife, Reema. “It would be staying at the Holiday completed. this," Perian Herring said to cheers helped organize the event— planned budget for fiscal Management, the big much more restrictive resentative. Middle row: Collin ing account: from, Trump Jr. and his Secret has unfortunately lost more than the funeral of a student who took other unexpected event the sheriff’s office “wants to and the bear really helped," said the was an honor to have him at our Inn Express came on July 24, said The city of Valparaiso began from the packed house. "The sta- Amanda Grandy, Jamee Graff, year 2018-19, which will begin waste-collection and about what materials Szymczak, Taylor Strickler, Rosalina An investigation by a school Service stayed at our very own one student to suicide in his tenure their own life. which requires the city to use its Lombardi. Back row: Alex Pugh and emphasize that any threat involv- girl's mother. "She fell asleep with the property.” Smith, when the Florida Highway water quality monitoring and tistics are scary." and Selena Chavis. Oct. 1, calls for spending about disposal contractor, has been it will accept, and especially about resource officer found that the Holiday Inn Express in and stressed the importance of Other local principals gathered reserve funds to cover extra Jennifer Sjostrom, AP Language ing students or school safety is bear." Trump Jr. was the headline Patrol called to ask her to set aside testing in the wake of the acci- Perian and her husband, Eddie, Niceville High School students $8,505,125, which is substan- telling public officials about recent how much contamination or non- boy made the threat during a Niceville,” said Colleen Smith, speaking up for those who are on stage to receive prayer and sup- expenses. teacher. taken seriously and thoroughly Officer Fordham presented the driver speaker at an Aug. 2 political rally 26 rooms for state troopers. The dent. Once satisfactory results launched Niceville Strong last led the room in prayer and wor- tially more than the $8,058,005 worldwide and local problems recyclable materials may be sixth-period class at the Niceville director of sales at the Niceville struggling. port. During a previous meeting, investigated. Substantiated of the cargo van with a ticket for care- in Niceville for two Republican patrol did not state the reason for are achieved, the health adviso- year. The two have a ministry ship songs. James Ross of First expected in total revenue, with recycling, and about what included in a shipment. That school on Aug. 27. The student hotel, in a recent conversation candidates: Dist. 1 Congressman A city pump breakdown sent raw sewage into Toms Bayou, Baptist Church spoke with Charlie Marello spoke of wanting to Please see PRAYER, page A-3 assuming the city keeps its cur- Please see FINANCES, page A-6 threats will result in an arrest.” less driving. ry will be lifted, the health called Parakaleo for families of Niceville residents can do to prop- Please see HAULER, page A-5 approached another student and with the Beacon. Please see TRUMP, page A-3 Valparaiso. 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For more information, visit performance on January 17 at 7 p.m. Pensacola Opera performs songs FWBMug.com, or contact Eddie at the Mattie Kelly Arts Center. It will from “Florencia in the Amazon” and Branch at (850) 240-3146 or Kinky Boots leave the audience howling for more. more. Delicious brunch by the 7 6 [email protected]. From shelters to showbiz, these Corner Café. And raffle. Hosted by 20195 4 3 2 14 1 13 amazing mutts unleash havoc and the Choctaw Bay Music Club. Buy 12 Garden Club meeting 11 10 21 9 20 8 19 In preparation for the garden hilarity in a breathtaking, action- tickets at Bayou Bookstore, 1118 18 17 16 15 club’s flower show, “Kindred packed, comedy dog spectacular, fea- John Sims Pkwy, Niceville, or Call Spirits," on April 27, 2019, Flower turing some of the 850-527-4200. CALENDAR Show Chairman and floral designer, world's most talented Honor Choir Concert Carole Martin, will present an four-legged perform- The Twin Cities Honor Choir E-mail items to overview of the new divi- ers. will be hosting its 23rd Annual con- [email protected] by 5 p.m. Wednesday. sions. Carole will Tickets are avail- cert on Thursday, March 28 at describe the new division, able from the center's box office at Rocky Bayou Baptist Church. The extended Booksale Botanical Arts mattiekellyartscenter.org or by call- choir was created in 1995 when a The Friends of the Niceville Horticulture, and also dis- ing 850-729-6000. grant was given to create the pro- Library are extending the cuss the horticulture, the power of perseverance gram. This year the choir ½ price book sale to design, educational, and youth divi- Lonnie Johnson will speak as part is larger than ever at over January 12. Bookstore is sions. of the President’s Speaker Series, an 100 fifth grade voices open on Tuesday and The Valparaiso Garden Club will initiative that NWF State College from public elementary Wednesday 10 a.m. – 2 meet at 9 a.m. on Wednesday, implemented this year to bring schools in and around p.m. and Saturday 10 a.m. – 1:30 January 9, at Trinity Presbyterian renowned speakers to our region, on Niceville and Valparaiso. p.m. Church Fellowship Hall located at 44 mattie Kelly arts Center will be performing Kinky Boots, January 18 at 7:30 p.m. Students will come together linux User Group meeting Southview Avenue in Valparaiso. Broadway’s huge-hearted, high-heeled hit on Jan. 8 at 7:30 In his talk, The Power of from Bluewater, Edge, Plew, and The Northwest Florida Linux Visitors and new members are p.m. With songs by Grammy and tony winning pop icon Cyndi Perseverance, Johnson will discuss Lewis Elementary schools. This User Group (NWFLUG) will hold its welcome. lauper, this joyous musical celebration is about the friend- his history and how the ever increas- elite choir was formed through a next monthly meeting on Monday, audubon Society program ships we discover, and the belief that you can change the world ing rate of technology evolution series of auditions where the partic- January 7 from 5:30 p.m. until no The Choctawhatchee Audubon when you change your mind. inspired by true events, Kinky impacts the future. ipating students were selected. Also later than 7:30 p.m., in Room 400 of Society will host the Thursday Boots takes you from a gentlemen’s shoe factory in Johnson served in the U.S. Air singing will be choirs from Ruckel the Crosspoint United Methodist evening program on Jan. 10. This Northampton to the glamorous catwalks of milan. tickets are Force, where he was awarded multi- and Lewis Middle Schools, and Church in Niceville, Florida. program will be Eagles, Hawks and available from the center's box office at ple medals and helped develop com- Niceville High School. Directions and details of the (always Falcons of Eastern North America by mattiekellyartscenter.org or by calling 850-729-6000. ponents in the stealth bomber pro- Organizers of the event are free) planned program can be found Greg Greer, Naturalist. Greer will gram. Later as a NASA Nuclear music specialists Barry Blackburn on the group's website at at illustrate, identify the birds in free Facebook page at Choctawhatchee lot in the Oak Creek Shopping Center Engineer, he received multiple (Bluewater), Shirley Andrews https://nwflug.org. All interested per- flight and during banding operations Audubon. on John Sims Parkway in Niceville at achievement awards for his work in (Edge), Suzanne Hartzog (Lewis), sons are invited to join us and bring and present information on the Benefit Breakfast 7:30 a.m. Wear closed toe shoes and spacecraft system design. Johnson is Katie McGuire Menges (Plew). your laptops. Persons planning to behavior, migration and population Twin Cities Elks Lodge #2747 is long pants. Contact Malcolm at (210) most well known as the inventor of The concert is free and open to the attend are encouraged to notify us via dynamics of this extremely interest- holding a public breakfast Saturday. 343-9082 for additional information. the Super Soaker squirt gun that public, but donations are highly email to [email protected]. ing group of raptors. The powerpoint January 12, 8 a.m.-10:30 a.m. at 224 Please visit our website at received multiple industry awards encouraged. All donations will con- mac User Group meeting presentation will be held in room Seminole Ave, Valparaiso. choctawhatcheeaudubon.org and our including Outdoor Toy of the Year. tinue to support next year’s concert. The January meeting of the Mac 308/309 of the Student Services Donation is $8. We will be serv- Facebook page at Choctawhatchee For more information, visit our mamma mia Users Group will be held on Monday, Building 400 at the Northwest ing biscuits n sausage gravy, pan- Audubon. website at mattiekellyartscenter.org. The Niceville High School January 7 at 6:30 p.m. in the NWF Florida State College Niceville cam- cakes, sausage, scrambled eggs and Seven money types Series This is free and open to the public. Theatre Department has announced State College Student pus. Socializing begins at 6:30 p.m. cheese grits. In The Seven Money Types work- Shoreline Birdwalk that the Benny Andersson and Bjorn Services Center — and the program at 7 p.m. Admission The Florida Elks sponsor a youth shop series, pastor and author On January 26, the Ulvaeus’ smash musical Mamma Rooms 308/9 is free and open to the public. Contact camp in Umatilla, for children 9-13 Tommy Brown guides participants Choctawhatchee Audubon Society Mia. will be their spring musical “Quicken – Take Dave Clausen at (907) 321-3701 for years old who can attend at no cost. through an understanding of the role will be having a birdwalk along production. A hit on Broadway for Control of Your more information. Please visit our There are numerous activities from money types play in the ways they Niceville and Valparaiso shorelines. fourteen years and the subject of a Finances” will be presented by Nita website at swimming to archery and those that think, feel, and act financially. Each Join walk leaders Walt 2008 film, Mamma Mia. and its Wilkinson. choctawhatcheeaudubon.org and our attend always want to session unleashes confidence in peo- Spence and Lenny upbeat and lively score has delight- return. Our breakfast will ple by giving them the tools and Fenimore in a tour of ed audiences worldwide. help defray some of the understanding of how they’re old Niceville and Our department is committed to cost for the bus that trans- designed to use money for good and Valparaiso in search excellence in theatre productions ports the children to the God in the world, while resolving of aquatic and upland and performance arts education, and camp. For more information on this financial tensions. Filled with laugh- winter residents. Meet at the we are excited to present this crowd activity, camp information or infor- ter and aha. moments, participants Mattress Depot in the Bayou pleaser to area audiences.” Jackson mation on joining the Twin Cites experience teachings on faith and Shopping Center off John Sims is set to direct with local artist Elks Lodge, call the lodge Tues.-Fri. finances that shatter the walls we Parkway in Niceville at 7:30 a.m. Cameron Daniels as Music 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. at 850-729-3557 or often place between God and money. Contact Walt at (850) 582-7064 or Director, and 2018 NHS alum just camp information at 850-217- The workshop will be held every Lenny at (850) 863-2039 for addi- Marykate Cary as choreographer. 7388. Elks share and Elks care. Wednesday for 7 weeks, starting tional information. NHS’ production of Mamma Mia. Birdwalk January 16, from 6:30 p.m. – 7:45 Please visit our website at will be presented with permission On January 12, the p.m. at Generations United Church choctawhatcheeaudubon.org and our from Music Theatre International of Choctawhatchee Audubon Society Sanctuary. Children and student min- Facebook page at Choctawhatchee New York, and will open April 4 will be having a birdwalk in North istries provided. Audubon. with shows on the 5 and 6 of April Okaloosa County. Join experienced Join anytime. This is free and opera Brunch Benefit as well. For further information on videographer and birder Malcolm open to all adults. Music Scholarship Fundraiser, NHS’ upcoming theatre produc- Swan in an expedition to find war- mutts Gone Nuts Feb. 23, 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., tions, contact Ritchie Jackson at blers, waders, woodpeckers and Expect the unexpected as canines Niceville Community Center, tickets [email protected] blackbirds. Meet at the CVS parking and comedy collide in this smash hit $35 adults and $20 students. om.

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The voice of Niceville, Bluewater Bay and Valparaiso since 1992 Page A-6 T HE B AY B EACON Wednesday, January 2, 2019

On Dec. 19 the Okaloosa Sheriff’s charge of possessing a controlled sub- * * * North Highway 85, regarding the theft office arrested Amber Dawn Arntz, 37, stance without a prescription. On Dec. 15 Niceville police of some building materials. of 211 Ellis Ave., Niceville, on a charge * * * responded to an address on 27th St. to * * * Police Blotter of probation violation, felony. On Dec. 23 Niceville police arrested assist the fire department in responding On Dec. 18 Niceville police The following accounts of the activities of police are according * * * Jacob Michael Jensen, 21, a cook, of 300 to a structure fire. Sparks had been responded to an address on Spence to records of the Niceville and Valparaiso police departments, the Okaloosa On Dec. 19 the Okaloosa Sheriff’s Kazmira Ct., #D, Niceville, on a charge observed coming from outlets in the Circle regarding a report of multiple home, apparently due to an electrical County and Walton County sheriff’s offices, other law-enforcement agencies, office arrested Zachary Clay Revell, 30, of marijuana possession not more than people banging on someone’s door and system malfunction. and the Okaloosa County and Walton County jails. of 208 20th St., Niceville, on a charge 20 grams. asking if she was home. of probation violation, misdemeanor. A police officer made a traffic stop * * * * * * * * * after Jensen’s vehicle ran a stop sign On Dec. 15 Niceville police On Dec. 19 Niceville police On Dec. 19 Niceville police arrest- and nearly collided with the offi- responded to an address on responded to an address on Peachtree cer’s patrol car. The officer Valparaiso Boulevard, where * * * ed Joseph Lee Bohler, 23, of 165 Way regarding a burglary to a vehicle. Arrests Grandview Ave., Valparaiso, on a charge found Jensen to be in posses- someone had found a baggie * * * On Dec. 17 Niceville police arrested sion of some suspected mari- full of a green leafy substance On Dec. 11 the Okaloosa Sheriff’s of DUI. On Dec. 19 Niceville police Damien Robert Pybus, 18, of 665 Navy juana which field tested posi- in a recycling bin. office arrested a 16-year-old boy on Police stopped Bohler for driving 49 responded to an address on Alderwood St., Fort Walton Beach, on charges of tive for THC. charges of leaving the scene of a crash miles per hour in a 35 mile-per-hour * * * Way regarding a burglary to a vehicle. committing a 3rd degree felony with a * * * involving damage to property, failing to weapon, possession of a short-barreled zone, and during the stop Bohler showed On Dec. 15 Niceville * * * numerous signs of intoxication, failed a On Dec. 23 John Edward police responded to an obey a law enforcement officer’s order gun, rifle, or machine gun, marijuana On Dec. 19 Niceville police field sobriety test, and gave a breath Bowers, 50, of 223 Bayberry address on Date Palm Circle, to stop, and driving without a license. distribution, responded to an address on Cottonwood sample which measured at 0.1. Dr., Niceville, was booked into where a resident expressed con- The boy was also charged with vio- possession of Court, regarding a burglary to a vehicle. * * * the Walton County jail on a cern about a neighboring child lating terms of community control based m a r i j u a n a * * * on earlier charges of possession of mar- On Dec. 20 Valparaiso police arrest- charge of violation of probation, mis- who kept climbing her fence. The res- over 20 On Dec. 20 Valparaiso police ijuana and marijuana distribution. ed Carlos Jesus Cabrera, 18, of 1469 demeanor. He was released on bond later ident was afraid that her dog might harm grams, and received a report from someone who Live Oak St., Niceville, on charges of that day. the child. Police advised the child’s * * * three counts said he had damaged his vehicle when unarmed burglary of an unoccupied * * * babysitter of the issue, along with a On Dec. 12 the Okaloosa Sheriff’s of drug equip- he struck an object in the road in ment posses- structure and trespassing a structure or On Dec. 20 Valparaiso police cited request to pass the information on to the office arrested Robert James Nelson, Jr., parents. Marianna the previous night. 31, of 1500 27th St., #B6, Niceville, on sion and/or conveyance. Sara Anne Poremba, 28, on a charge of * * * * * * a charge of battery causing bodily harm. use. Police responded to a report from DUI. On Dec. 20 Niceville police The arrest was made on a warrant stem- Pybus was people who had seen Cabrera going An officer observed Poremba driving On Dec. 18 Niceville police responded to an address on Yacht ming from an incident in Niceville on the driver and through a van on their neighbor’s prop- very slowly, with her vehicle making a responded to the Wildwood Club Drive regarding a report of Aug. 17. sole occupant erty. Cabrera told police that he had grinding sound. Further investigation Apartments regarding a report of Damien Robert someone defecating on the someone playing pranks on res- * * * of a vehicle entered the van but had not taken any- revealed that the vehicle was missing Pybus thing. both tires on the driver’s side, and was property. Further investiga- idents. On Dec. 12 Niceville police arrested stopped for no driving on the rims. tion, however, revealed no * * * Ernest Lee Powell Jr., 29, of 644 working brake * * * further evidence of such an On Dec. 20 the Okaloosa Crestview Ave., Niceville, on charges of lights. During the stop, police observed a On Dec. 20 the Okaloosa Sheriff’s The officer made a traffic stop, dur- incident. Sheriff’s office responded to driving while license suspended, first large glass pipe of a type used for smok- office arrested Corey Logan Chavis, 29, ing which Poremba showed numerous * * * an address on Sasser Street offense, possessing a controlled sub- ing marijuana in plain view in the vehi- of 39 Willow Ave., Freeport, on an out of signs of intoxication, failed a field sobri- regarding a theft. stance without a prescription, and drug cle, and an officer smelled the odor of county warrant. ety test, and provided two breath sam- On Dec. 15 Valparaiso equipment possession and/or use. marijuana. * * * ples, which measured at 0.188 and police responded to a distur- * * * 0.191. bance at a location on State An officer stopped an Oldsmobile A search revealed a .22 cal. rifle with On Dec. 20 the Okaloosa Sheriff’s On Dec. 21 Valparaiso police Road 397. The matter was resolved sedan after noting that Powell, the driv- a sawed-off barrel and a partially filed- office arrested Christopher James Jones, responded to the Matador Club Summons without an arrest. er, was not wearing a seatbelt. During off serial number. Also found were 50 21, of 430 Roberts Ave., Niceville, on an regarding an altercation between two the stop, the officer smelled marijuana, grams of a green leafy substance which out of county warrant. On Dec. 16 Niceville police issued a * * * women. No arrest was made. field tested positive for THC, and a 25- criminal summons to Mindy Lynn and Powell was found to not have a valid * * * On Dec. 16 Niceville police received * * * round magazine fitting the rifle. After a Cleveland, 39, of 205 Florida St., a report from someone whose mailbox driver’s license. On Dec. 21 Niceville police arrested On Dec. 21 Niceville police Miranda warning, Pybus told police Niceville, on a charge of retail theft had been hit by a vehicle. responded to an address on Beverly Powell admitted to having he had just left a friend’s house Robert Alan McKuhen, 28, of 213 shoplifting. Cleveland had been seen smoked marijuana earlier in the Hawthorne Cir., Fort Walton Beach, on * * * Drive regarding a report of possible where he had sold $100 worth taking items valued at $40.39 from prowlers. day, and a subsequent search of marijuana. charges of possessing a controlled sub- Walmart. On Dec. 17 the Okaloosa Sheriff’s revealed substances which office responded to an address on Ansley * * * * * * stance without a prescription field tested positive for (heroin/fentanyl), marijuana possession Other Drive regarding some found narcotics. On Dec. 21 the Okaloosa Sheriff’s methamphetamine and On Dec. 17 April Lynn not more than 20 grams, and drug equip- On Dec. 12 Niceville police * * * office responded to an address on John cocaine, as well as a sub- Steele, 43, of 304 Reeves St., ment possession and/or use. responded to an address on 27th St. and On Dec. 17 the Okaloosa Sheriff’s Sims Parkway regarding a narcotics mis- stance which was sent to #G10, Niceville, was booked * * * helped someone get a stuck top off a office responded to an address on demeanor. FDLE for identification. into the Walton County jail on On Dec. 21 the Okaloosa Sheriff’s propane bottle. Kazmira Court regarding a grand theft. * * * * * * a charge of violation of proba- tion. office arrested Krystal Renee Bailey, 28, * * * * * * On Dec. 21 the Okaloosa Sheriff’s On Dec. 12 Niceville police of 111 Sasser St., Niceville, on a charge On Dec. 13 Valparaiso police On Dec. 18 Niceville police office responded to an address on North arrested Nina Seo Cox, 30, of 301 * * * of probation violation, misdemeanor. received a report from someone who responded to the traffic circle near State Road 85 regarding some found Goldenrod, Niceville, on charges of pos- On Dec. 18 Niceville police arrested * * * said their dog had died, apparently from Walmart, where they helped resolve a narcotics. sessing a controlled substance without a Shea Edward Adams, 24, of 1778 On Dec. 21 the Okaloosa Sheriff’s poisoning due to ingestion of antifreeze, case of “slight road rage.” * * * prescription, possession of cocaine, and Thomas St., Niceville, on charges of office arrested Ryan Christopher which apparently occurred while the * * * On Dec. 21 the Okaloosa Sheriff’s drug equipment possession and/or use. drug equipment possession and/or use. Brown, 33, of 1402 29th St., person had been walking the dog On Dec. 18 Niceville police office responded to an address on White Officers responded to a report of a Police responded to a report of a sus- Niceville, on charges of pro- to Florida Park. responded to an address on 48th St. Point Road regarding a grand theft. burglary in progress at an address on picious person at the Comfort Suites bation violation, misde- * * * regarding the theft of a black 18-speed * * * Ivey Avenue, and upon arrival found Hotel. Officers found Adams in the park- meanor. Trek mountain bike with red letter- Cox inside the front passenger side of a ing lot, and asked him if he had anything On Dec. 14 Niceville On Dec. 22 the Okaloosa * * * ing. vehicle nearby. Officers saw a digital illegal in his possession. Adams admit- police responded to the Cefco Sheriff’s office responded to an scale of a type commonly used for ted to having a “rig”–slang for a syringe On Dec. 21 the Okaloosa store on College Boulevard, * * * address on North State Road weighing narcotics on the front seat. A used to inject narcotics. Sheriff’s office arrested where a slippery substance had On Dec. 18 Valparaiso 85 regarding a narcotics case. search found substances which field test- A search revealed a marijuana Jeffrey Lee Davis, 36, of 1714 been spilled on the road at the police responded to an * * * ed positive for cocaine, fentanyl, and grinder with suspected marijuana parti- 26th St., Niceville, on three intersection of College Boulevard address on N. State Road 85 On Dec. 22 the Okaloosa methamphetamine. cles in it, and a metal spoon with dark counts of failure to appear for a felony and Highway 85, causing vehicles to regarding a report of someone Sheriff’s office responded to offense. lose traction. A Department of * * * residue. The substance in the grinder taking materials from a dump- an address on Brookhaven Way field tested positive for THC, and the * * * Transportation crew was summoned, ster at a business, without per- regarding a report of battery. On Dec. 13 Niceville police arrested and used a quick-dry substance to spoon field tested positive for metham- On Dec. 22 the Okaloosa Sheriff’s mission. * * * Nicholas Ducati, 40, of 1629 Redwood absorb the liquid. Ave., Niceville, on charges of shoplift- phetamine. Adams said his narcotic of office arrested Jesse James Barker, 32, * * * On Dec. 22 the Okaloosa Sheriff’s * * * ing and marijuana possession not more choice is methamphetamine. of 111 Sasser St., Niceville, on two On Dec. 18 Niceville police office responded to an address on East than 20 grams. * * * counts of probation violation, misde- On Dec. 15 Niceville police were responded to an address on Powell State Road 20 regarding shoplifting. meanor. summoned to A Proper Wash on John Ducati had taken items from On Dec. 18 the Okaloosa Sheriff’s Drive, where someone had taken an out- * * * Sims Parkway, where the manager Walmart valued at a total of $35.92. He office arrested Shannah Lee Short, 36, of * * * door extension cord from a backyard. reported that someone had been dump- On Dec. 23 the Okaloosa Sheriff’s was also found in possession of some 1217 Bayshore Dr., Valparaiso, on a On Dec. 22 the Okaloosa Sheriff’s * * * ster diving and had left a mess on the office responded to an address on suspected marijuana which field tested charge of petit larceny, first offense. office arrested Jeffrey Daniel Goodwin, On Dec. 18 Niceville police property. Hickory Street regarding a report of bat- positive for THC. * * * 29, of 593 Hill Ln., Niceville, on a responded to Hollaway Roofing on tery.

[email protected] The voice of Niceville, Bluewater Bay and Valparaiso since 1992 (850) 678-1080 [email protected] The voice of Niceville, Bluewater Bay and Valparaiso since 1992 (850) 678-1080 [email protected] The voice of Niceville, Bluewater Bay and Valparaiso since 1992 (850) 678-1080 [email protected] The voice of Niceville, Bluewater Bay and Valparaiso since 1992 (850) 678-1080 Police Blott Police Blotter Police Blotter

er The The , page The , page A-3 The , page A-3 BBaayy BBeeaaccoonn BBaayy BBeeaaccoonn A-3 BBaayy BBeeaaccoonn BBaayy BBeeaaccoonn Newcomer Guide Inside 32 Pages, 2 Sections, 5 Inserts Wednesday, September 12, 2018 6 Pages, 1 Section, 3 Inserts Wednesday, September 19, 2018 50¢ 6 Pages, 1 Section, 4 Inserts Wednesday, September 26, 2018 50¢ 6 Pages, 1 Section, 5 Inserts Wednesday, October 3, 2018 50¢ Okaloosa County Mullet Fest acts posted Gemütlichkeit College offers staff bonuses Beacon Staff foods (including fried Oct. 21, with Tracy Byrd. By Mike Griffith the college itself meeting certain plan last month. Beacon Correspondent goals. In addition to a favorable Broad stripes, mullet considered by Farr’s chart-topping breakout The three-day Three headliners Oktoberfest is set for Friday, Saturday Bonuses would be granted to evaluation of a given employee, many as the hit “Redneck Crazy” Boggy Bayou Northwest Florida State tax levy set to rise 6% have been announced Mullet Festival will College has approved a plan to those who have performance the incentive compensation also bright stars best on the and debut album of Beacon Staff to support local charities. German-inspired entertain- for the 42nd annual evaluation scores of 3.5 depends on whether the college Niceville High School Air Force Beacon Staff ing in Crestview, unanimously gave Although the proposed millage planet). the same title made feature rides, The Mid-Bay Rotary Club will stage its Rotarians will be serving German bratwurst ment, as well as food, drink, grant incentive Boggy Bayou Mullet music, food and bonuses to college or above, on a five-point as a whole achieves key goals Junior ROTC cadets Cole Pearson The Okaloosa Countypreliminary approval to a countywide rates would be unchanged, they On opening Farr a household 24th annual Oktoberfest Friday and Saturday on the grill and homemade sauerkraut made dancing and children
s Festival, scheduled for crafts the third activities, will be featured at employees. scale in which a score of by the end of the current aca- and Benjamin Kot show Edge Commission is scheduled to hold millage rate of 3.8308,would result in higher tax bills for night, Friday, name. His trade- in Bluewater Bay. from an old Bavarian family recipe. They will the third weekend in weekend in the Oktoberfest. The annual bonus- 3 means that an employ- demic year, in May 2019, to Elementary School Safety Patrol a public hearing next week unchanged from this year’s many, if not most owners. The rates Oct. 19 country mark gravelly voice The event, featuring German food, live also offer baked chicken quarters, hot dogs, October. October. Here, a Beacon file photo es, which typically ee has met the minimum include boosting enrollment 2 fifth graders the proper way to before setting its final proper- rate. would result in an overall increase in music star Tyler produced two more music, singing, dancing, crafts and children’s sodas, and German and American beer. raise and lower the American flag. The three-day event scene from last would range some- standards for their job, percent, increasing fall-to- ty-tax rates for next year. The panel also endorsed a property-tax collections of more than Farr will per- No. 1 hits, “Whiskey years festival. activities will take place in the parking lot of Other food venders will sell kettle korn, fun- The Safety Patrol is now responsi- in Niceville, which Tyler Farr where between $200 while a 5 would indicate spring retention of first-time stu- The taxes would help fund special-district millage rate 6 percent, due to generally rising tax- form. Evening In My Water” and Beacon file photo the Winn-Dixie Marketplace Shopping Plaza nel cakes, curley fries, cotton candy, nachos ble for those daily tasks at Edge. spotlights leading coun- and $500, and are in the best one could pos- dents from 76 percent to 77 per- a $387 million budget for the of 0.2990, also unchanged. able values of existing real estate and entertainment on Oct. 20 “A Guy Walks Into on State Road 20. with cheese, and deserts. try-music acts on an open-air addition to regular pay raises, sibly do. cent, raising the number of stu- fiscal year that will begin Oct. This rate is charged only to to new construction. will include the group Eddie A Bar.” Farr’s two The festival will operate Friday 5 to 10 p.m., Live entertainment will be provided the Joe stage, also features family fun will depend on an employee’s The governing board of the dents who receive a diploma or 1. owners in unincorporated areas The countywide property tax helps Montgomery Gentry. The Montgomery latest singles, “I and Saturday 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Occhipinti German Band, musician Gary such as arts and crafts, amuse- performance, as well as that of Niceville college approved the The commission last week, meet- of the county. Please see COUNTY, page A-4 festival will close on Sunday, All profits from the Oktoberfest will be used Please see COLLEGE, page A-2 ment rides and games, festival Please see FESTIVAL, page A-6 Please see FESTIVAL, page A-4 Niceville Niceville High School Homecoming Valp. sets Past is prologue at the Heritage Museum Fla. DOT Thousands enjoy Oktoberfest Groups increases hikes in computer seek city sewer rates woes delay Tax levy hike eyed taxes, fees money By Mike Griffith bridge data By Mike Griffith Beacon Correspondent By Mike Griffith Beacon Correspondent By Mike Griffith Beacon Correspondent Valparaiso residents will pay Beacon Correspondent Thirteen nonprofit organiza- The Niceville City Council more for water and sewage serv- tentatively approved a budget of Due to continuing data-pro- tions that provide various eco- ice, as well as paying new “ancil- cessing problems at the agency nomic and social services in $33,001,180 for the fiscal year lary” service fees each time they that will begin Oct. 1. that collects Florida highway Niceville have asked city tax- call city workers to perform tolls, the Mid-Bay Bridge payers to chip in $33,600. Final approval of the meas- maintenance on their water or ure, voted Sept. 6, requires two Authority is in the dark about its The Niceville City Council wastewater systems. Such main- traffic and revenue figures for is considering the organiza- more public hearings, sched- tenance calls were previously uled for 6 p.m. Sept. 18 and 20 much of the span’s peak summer tions’ requests for public fund- provided by the city at no direct season. ing to further their work. at Niceville City Hall. charge to customers. The council also approved Separately, Gov. Rick Scott Eleven of the organizations Residents are also likely to named two new members to the making presentations to the increases in sewer rates and see an increase in their property garbage fees. bridge authority’s governing council recently received city tax millage rate, from the current board. money last year. The budget rate of 5.024 to 5.2813. approved During a meeting in Niceville The two new organizations During a Sept. 10 meeting, Sept. 20, the toll span’s executive were Niceville High School, Sept. 6 the Valparaiso City Commission includes director, Van Fuller, said the which wants $2,500 to improve approved an increase in the basic Florida Secretary of a new rubber track at Niceville $15,661,700 rate for potable water consump- for the city’s Transportation has apologized for Stadium, and Niceville Strong, tion, up to 3,000 gallons per the delay and the poor perform- a Christian organization trying general fund, month, from $13.75 to $14.75. $92,850 for ance of his agency in its recent to combat drug abuse, suicide, They also increased the basic handling of toll collections and and other issues among local Niceville’s Community commercial rate for using up to Redevelopment Agency (CRA), traffic counts, and has promised youth. 3,000 gallons from $14.45 to to hold responsible those The city council deferred $3,183,590 for sanitation, $15.50 per month. $9,174,500 for water and sewer, accountable. any action until later in the new Additional rates for consump- Fuller said he expects toll and fiscal year, which began and $4,888,540 for storm water tion above the 3,000 gallons per management. revenue data for the full summer Monday, and after city officials month level remain unchanged, period of 2018 to become avail- gain a clearer picture of expect- Also given tentative approval ranging from $2.50 for residen- at the meeting was a property able sometime within the next ed expenses and revenue. tial consumption between 3,000 month. The organizations seeking tax rate of 3.7 mills, the same as and 8,000 gallons and $2.65 for for the current fiscal year. Data-processing problems fol- Please see CHARITY, page A-2 commercial consumption lowing a change in computer sys- A millage rate of 3.7 means between 3,000 and 7,000 gal- that Niceville property owners tems earlier this year by the lons, to maximum additional Florida Turnpike Authority, the will pay $3.70 in city property rates of $3.40 for residential con- tax for each $1,000 of state agency that counts traffic on sumption above 25,000 gallons the Mid-Bay Bridge and collects appraised, taxable value of their and $3.70 for commercial con- property, after homestead sumption above that level. Please see BRIDGE, page A-4 exemptions and other discounts. Residential rates for sewage For example, the owner of a disposal increased from $25.10 home with a taxable value of for the first 4,000 gallons per $175,000 would owe the city of There are always a wide variety of activities happening at the Heritage Museum of Northwest Florida, Valparaiso. Last weekend, patrons took advantage of month to $26.10. The additional classes in blacksmithing and watercolors. Visitors also toured the museum to learn about our area's heritage. Pictured: A cotton gin and farm tools are some Niceville $647.50 in property An estimated 5,000 people attended the local celebration of Oktoberfest, a traditional German celebration, Friday and Saturday in Bluewater Bay, sponsored by the Mid- rate of $4.50 for each additional of the artifacts on display. Kids of all ages can enjoy the schoolhouse area. Watercolor instructor Carol Dickson helps students to create beautiful beach house Bay Rotary Club. The festival included arts and crafts booths, a variety of food and drink, music, games, and other fun. Proceeds fund the clubs charitable projects tax, in addition to any other 1,000 gallons remains paintings. Instructor Billy Hay (right) helps a student make an iron nail. A propane-fueled forge is used. Inside the museum, patrons get a glimpse of what life throughout the year. Pictured, Cub Scouts sold popcorn to raise funds for their organization. A variety of arts and crafts were displayed for purchase. A musician in property taxes owed to such unchanged. Commercial rates was like in Boggy Bayou in pioneer days. Beacon photos by Paula Mims other taxing entities as German garb played traditional accordion music for people to listen and dance to. The Rotary Club operated a food tent, serving such traditional German fare as bratwurst also increased by about $1 per (over 1,900 of them) and sauerkraut (at least 60 gallons). Rotary volunteers accepted donations for Shelter Box, which gives tents and camping equipment to people Okaloosa County or the county month, with the maximum rate, school district. around the world who have lost homes to natural or man-made disasters. Activities for children included an inflated slide, a rock-climbing wall, and a bungee jump. Rotary for motels, climbing from Club women in traditional German costumes helped to serve food to Oktoberfest participants. People enjoyed eating, socializing, and listening to music in the festivals Niceville High School seeks While the millage rate $149.64 to $155.61 for the first main tent. Teams competed to pull a North Bay fire truck farthest and fastest. Beacon photos by Mike Griffith $2,500 to maintain its track. remains the same from this fis- 4,000 gallons. Beacon file photo cal year to the next, the amount There was a lot to celebrate during Niceville High School Homecoming festivities at Eagle Stadium Friday night. Members of the 1988 state championship foot- Valp. suspends ball team and coaches were honored, and the Eagles notched their third win of the season with a 35-7 defeat of Holmes County Central (Miss.) Sydney Green The “ancillary” charges estab- Honoring Florida
s fallen of tax revenue expected from it lished Sept. 10 will range from a and Blayne Johnson were crowned Homecoming Queen and King. Friday game photos, A-5. Beacon photos by Paula Mims On Saturday morning, the Niceville Exchange Club and the Fisher House of the Emerald Coast held a dedication ceremony for the Field of Valor at the Mullet Festival will increase due to new con- Please see TAX, page A-3 Rocky Bayou Valp. mulls changes grounds, Niceville. This is a tribute to the men and women from Florida who lost their lives fighting for our nation's freedom since 9/11. Each of the 350-plus flags bears struction within the city during city’s fire chief a name of a service member from Florida who made the ultimate sacrifice. The Field of Valor display is open to the public daily through Saturday, Sept. 15. From left: Field the past year, as well as general By Mike Griffith A personnel hearing on the of Valor ceremony dignitaries with Niceville first responders in front of a replica of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. The musical group Gloryland sang the National appreciation in value of homes, Beacon Correspondent matter by the city commission Homecoming following chief’s exit Anthem and “God Bless America.” Niceville's Chief of Police, David Popwell, and his officers attended the ceremony. Florida House District 4 Rep. Mel Ponder spoke. Please see SEWER, page A-2 Youth council Valparaiso suspended the scheduled for noon Tuesday, By Mike Griffith Following receipt of the letter, Sonia Anderson, U.S. Army retired, looks at a tag on one of the flags that honor Florida's fallen. Beacon photos by Paula Mims city fire chief, Mark Norris, on Sept. 25, was canceled hours Court announced Beacon Correspondent officials canceled a city commis- Sept. 19. before it was to begin. Rocky Bayou Christian School announced its With the sudden resignation of sion personnel hearing concerning Niceville pastor wins state honor In a letter to Norris, Meantime, the city 2018 Homecoming Court. Pictured, bottom to Valparaiso Fire Chief Mark Norris. The hearing had been called in the wake of By Mike Griffith with a trophy for coming in Niceville Youth Advisory Mayor Brent Smith appointed Tommy top, from left: Lydia Turner (12th grade), Jenna Norris, the city faces Fire board votes Smith’s suspension of becomes U.S. citizen Beacon Correspondent fourth in Florida in the League of Council members Chris wrote, “You are hereby Mayville, Niceville Lewis (12th), Kayla Polomski (12th), Charlotte decisions about who Weaver (11th), Brooke Merrifield (11th), Abigail Norris as fire chief fol- Sanders, Martin Bouldo and immediately placed on fire chief, to serve in will permanently suc- The Rev. Hae-Yong “Peter” Sung of Niceville, center, Niceville High Niceville City Council mem- Cities annual community service Richmond (9th), Miriam Riches (9th), Madeline Katie Lightfoot were present- paid administrative the additional capaci- ceed him, and what lowing complaints by became a naturalized U.S. citizen Sept. 21 during cere- to hike tax levy bers watched proudly last week contest. Athearn (10th), Caroline Seeling (10th), Jacob ed a community-service tro- leave pending a hear- ty of interim fire chief other changes, if any, firefighters about man- monies in Pensacola, one of 76 new citizens from 43 as members of the Youth The youth group won the Fortenberry (9th), Landon Byrd (9th), Johnny Homecoming phy by Sharon Berrian, repre- of Valparaiso. should be made to make agement of the depart- nations. Sung, a Niceville resident for the past 17 years, Millage rate to remain unchanged Advisory Council, a group of award for a recycling project ing regarding the cur- Linn (10th), Aaron Grabinger (11th), Zach senting the Florida League of ment. joins his wife and four children as American citizens. He they organized and conducted at rent state of the City of Valparaiso officials Balthazar (11th), Isaiah Dumont (10th), David its fire department, how By Cynthia Richardson tax rate the same as the past two high school students whose Cities. Also pictured is “It has been a is vice president of the General Assembly of the Court Valparaiso Fire did not respond to Fortenberry (12th), Parker Athearn (12th), Adam it operates, and how it is Beacon Correspondent years at 3.0176 mills, which activities parallel those of the Niceville High School. Berrian Niceville City Councilman Sal Presbyterian Church in Korea of the Eastern Presbytery Department.” requests for comment. Mistretta (12th). Coronation of the Homecoming managed and led. rewarding experience would result in a 6.7 percent Niceville High School
s 2018 city council, received an award said that the performance of the Nodjomian, the citys YAC Hapdong in U.S.A. He is pictured here following the event East Niceville Fire District “Under Section Norris could not be King and Queen will take place Oct. 5 during a In a Sept. 25 letter to these past 14 years Homecoming Court was named last from the Florida League of YAC in conducting their project adviser. Beacon photo by Mike Griffith Mark Norris with his wife, Cindy, and retired Okaloosa County Court held the first of two public hear- increase in the total tax levy reached. football half-time presentation when the Mayor Brent Smith, Mark Norris serving the commis- week. The Homecoming football Cities. was “exemplary” and told city 5.4.1 of the Employee Judge Patt Maney. ings on its pro- because of Knights take on Aucilla Christian Academy at sion, the citizens, and game and parade will be Friday at During a city council meeting council members that the Policy Manual, I have lost con- On Sept. 14, the Beacon was Norris wrote, “I have posed budget and increasing prop- Eagle Stadium. The parade begins at Meigs Middle School. business owners in the city of Niceville YAC is “a phenomenal fidence in your ability to suffi- contacted by Chad Lee, a decided to retire from my position tax rate for next erty values and 6 p.m., the game at 7 p.m. Sept. 11, Sharon Berrian, a Valparaiso,” Norris wrote in his league of cities official, present- group of young leaders.” ciently guide the fire department Valparaiso volunteer firefighter as fire chief of the Valparaiso year. construction in Homecoming King and Queen will be in a time of need,” Smith wrote. Volunteer Fire Department effec- resignation letter. “I wish only the East Niceville crowned during halftime. The court, ed the youth group members In addition to the trophy, the During the Please see CHIEF, page A-4 tive immediately.” Please see FIRE, page A-2 meeting, held Fire District. top row, from left: Jacoby Jackson Please see YOUTH, page A-6 Thursday at the Three mem- (9th grade), James Baird (10th), Dante firehouse on 27th bers of the five- Barrett (11th), Felipe Siquara (12th), member board Kenny Ketcham (12th), Liam Ordner A+ Painting Chef Ernie's at Eglin Golf Course Gulf Coast Dental Northwest Florida State College Ritz Salon A+ Painting Best Buy Carpet Emerald Coast Boat Club Niceville Hearing Center Ritz Salon Street, Niceville, Advanced Home Repair Dermatology Surgery Center Gulf Coast Hearing Center Okaloosa County School District Simpler Carpet were present: (12th), David Cathey (12th), Blayne A+ Painting Carriage Hills Realty Gulf Coast Dental Niceville Insurance Agency Smileology Advanced Home Repair Carriage Hills Realty Geico Niceville Insurance Agency Samuel M. Peek members of the Johnson (12th). Bottom row: LuLu Advanced Home Repair Dermatology Surgery Center Gulf Coast Hearing Center Okaloosa County School District Spectrum Painting Bayou Book Co. Diamond Works Immanuel Anglican Church Ollie's Bargain Outlet Smileology Chairman Ed Dunbar, Treasurer Affordable Climate Control Storage Century 21 Hill Minger Gulf Coast Dental Ollie's Bargain Outlet Simpler Carpet independent district’s elected Harrington (9th), Marleigh Moore Bayou Book Co. Diamond Works Immanuel Anglican Church Publix Summit II In Hair Bayou Tree Service Dr. Amber Wiebe L'Orange Auto Import Service One Hour Air Conditioning Spectrum Painting Ashley Home Store Dermatology Surgery Center Gulf Coast Hearing Center Ottesen Family Dentistry Smileology governing board tentatively C. J. McEntire, and (10th), Madison Riley (11th), Holly Bayou Tree Service Dr. Amber Wiebe L'Orange Auto Import Service Purdy Painting Twin Cities Transmission Best Buy Carpet E & D Pressure Washing Lighthouse Therapy Ottesen Family Dentistry Summit II In Hair Bayou Book Co. Diamond Works Immanuel Anglican Church Patti Mixon Spectrum Painting approved a budget of $1,329,949 Commissioner Tony Evans. Chavis (12th), Sydney Green (12th), Benjamin Franklin E & D Pressure Washing Lighthouse Therapy Rhino Shield Winn-Dixie Carriage Hills Realty Eglin Federal Credit Union Mattress Depot Publix Swift Creek COA Bayou Tree Service Dr. Amber Wiebe L'Orange Auto Import Service Publix Summit II In Hair for the fiscal year that will begin The proposed budget marks Alex Koulisis (12th), Hannah Farley Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Eglin Federal Credit Union Mattress Depot Ritz Salon CCB Community Bank Emerald Coast Boat Club Niceville Family Dental Purdy Painting Twin Cities Transmission Benjamin Franklin E & D Pressure Washing Lighthouse Therapy Purdy Painting Twin Cities Transmission Oct. 1. an increase of just over $150,000 (12th), Katie Lightfoot (12th). Best Buy Carpet Geico Niceville Hearing Center Simpler Carpet Century 21 Hill Minger Geico Niceville Insurance Agency Rhino Shield Winn Dixie Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Eglin Federal Credit Union Mattress Depot Rhino Shield Winn Dixie They also voted to keep the Please see FIRE, page A-2

[email protected] The voice of Niceville, Bluewater Bay and Valparaiso since 1992 (850) 678-1080 [email protected] The voice of Niceville, Bluewater Bay and Valparaiso since 1992 (850) 678-1080 [email protected] The voice of Niceville, Bluewater Bay and Valparaiso since 1992 (850) 678-1080 [email protected] The voice of Niceville, Bluewater Bay and Valparaiso since 1992 (850) 678-1080 Police Blotter Police Blotter Police Blotter The BBaayy BBeeaaccoonn , page A-3 The BBaayy BBeeaaccoonn , page A-3 The BBaayy BBeeaaccoonn The BBaayy BBeeaaccoonn , page A-5 Celebrate the Arts Special Section Inside 6 Pages, 1 Section, 4 Inserts Wednesday, October 10, 2018 50¢ 8 Pages, 1 Section, 4 Inserts Wednesday, October 17, 2018 50¢ 14 Pages, 2 Sections , 4 Inserts Wednesday, October 24, 2018 50¢ 8 Pages, 1 Section, 6 Inserts Wednesday, October 31, 2018 50¢ Proposed amendments TSA Pre signups offered 42nd Mullet Festival set Corroded support Community Voters face long ballot Beacon Staff Representatives. and a measure restoring voting rallies Election Day Early voting is in full swing for Statewide offices at stake are rights to most felons. is Nov. 6. Three days of music, food and fun cable found in bridge governor and lieutenant governor, Early voting, which began Oct. on state ballot reviewed to extend the Nov. 6 general election. Here, the Beacon Staff The three-day Boggy Bayou A total of 135,563 people in attorney general, agriculture com- 22, is offered 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. scene last By Mike Griffith Constitution that will be for a final decision by voters. try-music acts, a variety of food Festival offers folks a chance to have Beacon Staff vehicles exceeding 80,000 pounds imposed after DOT inspectors Mullet Festival will feature State officials have banned Okaloosa County are qualified to missioner, and chief financial offi- daily through Saturday at five week in front Beacon Correspondent on the Nov. 6 statewide Gaetz outlined each of the pro- The 42nd Annual Boggy Bayou (including of course smoked and a fun-filled three-day weekend, meet from using the bridge, which found corrosion on a post-tension- storm aid fried mullet old friends and rides, music, food and crafts overweight loads from the Mid- spans Choctawhatchee Bay, link- ing tendon, one of the steel cables cast ballots in the election. Of cer. locations, including Niceville City of an early- Members of the ballot. posed amendments, and discussed Mullet Festival is scheduled the third weekend in October. By Cynthia Richardson fish), carni- More on festival, A-4 & A-5. make new Bay Bridge until further notice ing Niceville and Destin. inside the bridge that link its pre- these, 58 percent are registered as In the Twin Cities area, voters Hall. Voters may also cast ballots voting Niceville Republican Following his serv- pros and cons of each. The assent for Friday through Sunday at Here, a scene from last years Beacon Correspondent polling place val rides, and acquaintances.” after discovering that one of the Normally, certain loads even cast concrete spans. A number of Republicans, 19 percent as will help choose a state senator by mail. On election day, Nov. 6, Women, Federated ice as Okaloosa Schools of at least 60 percent of voters is the Mullet Festival grounds, festival. Beacon file photo Hurricane Michael may at Niceville arts and crafts booths. Gates will open at noon Friday cables that support the 3.6-mile heavier than 80,000 pounds are cables fasten each span. Democrats, and 23 percent as and a member of the state house of voters may exercise their franchise were addressed Oct. 1 Superintendent and as a required to enact changes to the College Boulevard at now be bad memory, but the City Hall. Festival organizer Lavon and at 11 a.m. on Saturday and span has corroded. allowed on state highways and “The load restriction is a cau- affiliated with a minor party or no representatives. at their assigned polling place 7 by former Florida state senator, Gaetz state constitution. Highway 85 North, Niceville. devastation in its wake, and Beacon photo Mason said the yearly fall festi- Sunday. The problem was discovered bridges upon obtaining a permit. tionary measure intended to mini- party, according to county Also before voters are 12 pro- a.m. to 7 p.m. Senate President Don recently served on —Amendment 1: This amend- With lots of ways to enjoy the the need for outside help in IdentoGO this week is offering enrollment in the federal TSA Pre program in a mobile signup oper- val is like a family reunion for Admission at the gate costs $15 during a routine inspection, Heavy trucks are not often seen on mize the stresses on the bridge Supervisor of Elections Paul Lux. posed amendments to the Florida One of the most prominent Gaetz, who joined them Florida’s Constitution ment increases the homestead tax festivities, everyone can find the communities most affect- ation at the Century 21 Hill Minger Agency, Niceville, weather permitting. Hours are 9 a.m.-noon, the whole town. "Once again Friday, $15 Saturday, and $10 according to the Floridathe Mid-Bay Bridge, which while FDOT personnel determine Among the offices and issues Constitution, including a ban on issues on the local ballot is a refer- for dinner and a discus- Revision Commission, exemption on Florida homes from something to make memo- ed, will linger for months. Don Gaetz and 1-5 p.m. through Thursday, Oct. 11, and 9 a.m.-noon Friday, Oct. 12. Applicants should pre- ries. the Mullet Festival is upon us, Sunday. Children age 11 and under Department of Transportation. assesses tolls based on the number a repair plan for the structure,” And many local residents on a lengthy ballot are contests for dog racing, a measure making it endum sponsored by the Okaloosa sion about the 12 pro- which placed the meas- a maximum of $50,000 to a max- enroll at universalenroll.dhs.gov. Click on the pop-up “Century 21 Hill Minger Agency” location State inspectors on the Mid-Bay Bridge Oct. 1. Their discovery harder to raise state taxes and fees, At least 35,000 people are expect- offering us another chance to show- are admitted free. Single-day Following the discovery, the of axles. according to a transportation are using their connections U.S. Senate and U.S. House of Please see ELECTION, page A-3 posed amendments to the Florida ures on the general election ballot Please see BALLOT, page A-4 when selecting an enrollment center. Beacon photo of a corroded support cable prompted imposition of a load limit case our area and honor the lowly DOT issued an order prohibiting The weight-limit order was Please see BRIDGE, page A-4 ed to attend at least part of the three- Please see FESTIVAL, page A-4 until repairs are made. Beacon photo and skills to help our neigh- day event, drawn by top-name coun- mullet,” Mason said. “The Mullet bors to the east, in communi- ties hard-hit by the killer Fire board storm. Home for young families in crisis nears opening Officials Pups meet pumpkins Homage to the lowly mullet "As we were hunkering approves down, waiting out what of Hurricane Michael sideswipes Twin Cities the storm hit us, I knew we promote needed to do something," millage, said Casey Laflin, vice presi- dent of Peoples National sales tax budget Bank, Niceville. "It is our job to step up and help our increase Tax rate is Please see STORM, page A-5 By Mike Griffith unchanged Beacon Correspondent By Cynthia Richardson The Okaloosa County Beacon Correspondent Commission has approved a The East Niceville Fire District “needs list” of projects that might has finalized its budget and tax be accomplished if a proposed rate for the fiscal year that began 10-year, half-percent sales tax is Oct. 1. approved by voters in a county Meeting Sept. 20 at the East referendum Nov. 6. Niceville firehouse on 27th Street, The local-option surtax would the board approved the year's raise an estimated $19 million a budget at $1,329,949. They also Wrong reports year or more. approved to keep the current mill- of damage Topping the “Sales Tax age rate of 3.0176 mills. Both Project Needs List” adopted by measures passed unanimously. sparked worry the commission earlier this This budget is about $150,000 month is a plan, already under- more than that for the 2017-18 By Mike Griffith way, to build a Southwest year. The carryover from last Beacon Correspondent Crestview Bypass, to relieve traf- year's budget is nearly $300,000. Reports of the destruction of a fic congestion around that city. Both ordinances were read boat warehouse in Niceville by The list also includes four aloud before being passed, in Hurricane Michael were, as Mark public safety proj- accordance with the law. Twain said of his premature obit- ects, 13 trans- The tax rate, also called the uary, greatly exaggerated. portation millage rate, refers to the amount Shortly after the destructive capacity proj- levied per $1,000 of taxable prop- storm struck the Panama City area ects, eight erty value. For instance, at the Oct. 10, erroneous TV-news transportation proposed rate, a property valued reports surfaced nationwide safety projects, at $200,000 for tax purposes, after showing pictures of a wrecked and 18 storm exemptions, would end up paying boat barn falsely identified as "a water control projects. $603.52 in fire district taxes. marina in Niceville, Florida." The public safety projects This figure does not make up Fortunately, neither of the two include obtaining new communi- the entirety of a given owner’s big boat-storage buildings in the cation equipment for emergency property taxes. Owners are also area—Emerald Coast Marine in services, improving the fleet of subject to other taxes with various Please see REPORTS, page A-5 emergency response vehicles, millage rates outside of the fire improving emergency headquar- district, such as county and school ters facilities, and purchasing levies. equipment and other support for school resource officers. Among the transportation Hurricane Michael, said to be the most powerful storm to hit the Florida Panhandle in at least 150 years, made landfall just east of Panama City last week, carving a destructive path northward into capacity and safety projects are Alabama and Georgia, but leaving the Niceville-Valparaiso area comparatively unscathed. Locally, the main effects were numerous power failures, for the most part remedied within hours. Rainfall in A Niceville charity has remade an old schoolhouse into a temporary home for single mothers and their young children. Crisis Aid for Littles and Moms (CALM) aims to the area barely topped two inches. As the storm approached to the east on Oct. 10, sightseers here braved gusty winds to watch waters rise in the bayous. With schools, businesses and military bases improvements to College begin taking in “families in crisis” soon after staffing is completed. Pictured, the church-based organization held an open house Oct. 16 in the newly renovated building, Boulevard, Forest Road, and the shuttered, roadways were mostly empty, except the Mid-Bay Bridge and Spence Parkway, where tolls were waived to ease evacuations. A county shelter opened in Raider Arena, Niceville, where cots at Redwood Avenue and 27th Street, Niceville. During nine-month stays, four mothers and their children 6 years and under will be housed, fed, and schooled in life were quickly filled, causing officials to ask new evacuees to bring their own air mattresses. Next door, the Okaloosa County Emergency Operations Center was activated. intersection of Redwood Avenue skills by volunteers aiming “to break the generational bonds of poverty.” In addition to keeping the dwelling in good order, mothers will be expected to work paying and John Sims Parkway. Storm Photos by Mike Griffith, Paula Mims and Beacon Staff jobs outside the home 20 hours a week. Day care will be provided. CALM is working to close an $8,000 gap in its first-year budget of $100,000. Information on con- Please see TAX, page A-2 Niceville's Crosspoint Church Pumpkin Patch was the setting for Walton County Animal Shelter's second annual Pumpkins and Pups adoption event Saturday. tributing money or time may be found at: [email protected]. Or email: [email protected]. The shelter brought 10 dogs and two kittens to the event, and local Marines volunteered their time to help. According to shelter volunteer coordinator Patty The East Niceville Fire TV stations broadcast this Weingartner, some 187 dogs and cats currently reside at the shelter, all seeking their “forever” home. Pictured: Dellilah has been at the shelter 146 days, the Districts millage rate for the video showing a hurricane- Masons Tens of thousands flocked to the 42nd annual Boggy Bayou Mullet Festival in Niceville this past weekend, damaged marina which they longest of all the animals brought to the event. Scott Seward, one of the Marine volunteers, with one of the dogs up for adoption. Beacon photos by Paula Mims current fiscal year will be the Student leads annual prayer event same as last years. enjoying food, rides, crafts, music and reunions with longtime friends. Beacon photos by Paula Mims identified, erroneously, as in ‘Monster gator’ bagged Saturdays are meant for PAL soccer Beacon photo to offer Niceville. by hunters in bayou College expo Child ID By Mike Griffith Valparaiso resident Dexter had been stalking the unusually Beacon Correspondent Early, 66, and his son, Dan Early, large alligator in a small boat since In Michael
s wake A father and son from the Twin 37, of Niceville, said they landed spotting it some days earlier, har- highlights jobs program A disaster-relief team from Rocky Bayou Cities recently bagged a “mon- the 12-foot reptile at the head of pooned it with a crossbow bolt, Baptist Church, Niceville, was among those By Cynthia Richardson Police work and medical pro- ster” alligator in a Valparaiso Toms Bayou. then got close enough to kill it crowded with students and By Mike Griffith rushed to the aid of victims of Hurricane Beacon Correspondent employers that there was barely fessions were among careers Beacon Correspondent waterway. Dexter said he and Dan, who with a “bang stick,” a handheld represented at Northwest Michael. Here, Niceville residents Billy Moore device that delivers a powerful Students and job seekers alike room to walk. and Jared Brewer perch on a roof in the Florida State Colleges Career Among the many booths and bullet on contact. flocked to Northwest Florida State The exposition drew high Calhoun County community of Blountstown, Day last week. exhibits at this year’s Boggy College's Career Day Event school students, college students, patching wind damage. Meantime, Bob “After the gator expired, we NWF State College Bayou Mullet Festival will be a tried several times to put the gator Thursday. There they met repre- and others. booth where parents can bring Huisken, also of the Niceville team, attached a chain to a toppled tree in preparation for in the boat, but that didn’t hap- sentatives of employers of all The college itself sponsored their children and obtain identi- Members of the Niceville Masonic Lodge will offer the Child ID pulling it away from the house. Nearby hous- pen,” Dexter said. “The gator was stripes, as well as college tables highlighting a variety of fication kits which can be used recruiters. departments, including math, sci- program at the Mullet Festival this weekend. es were still buried under fallen trees, a com- too big for the two of us to handle. in case the child ever goes miss- mon sight around Blountstown and nearby At one point I tied the gator’s head Juniors and seniors were bused ence, nursing, and radiography. ing. ents can give the identification in Niceville, the Child ID communities. Relief efforts are likely to con- in from area high schools to take The graphics and drafting depart- off to the bow of the boat and we The digital identification kits kit to law enforcement or other Program is operated by Masonic tinue for months. tried to roll the gator’s tail into the part in the event on the college’s ment conducted demonstrations record information about the authorities to help identify the Lodges, free of charge, in con- Beacon photos by Mike Griffith Niceville campus. using a 3D printer. The science Recently Rocky Bayou Christian Schools Student Government Association Discipleship boat, but as water was coming in child, which is then put on a child when he or she is found. junction with law enforcement. Prefect, Koltin Driscoll led several faculty members and 7th through 12th grade students in over the boat’s rail we decided that Exhibitors took up four side- department sponsored a large, disk and given to the parents, so According to Dave York, a It provides child ID kits at the Despite the chilly temperatures on Saturday morning, soccer families were out in force at the “See You at the Pole”, which is an annual event for Christian students to gather at their was a bad idea.” Niceville sports complex to catch their favorite team in action. There are 87 teams in the league this walks outdoors, and the inside of inflatable rubber brain that could if the child ever disappears, par- member of the Masonic Lodge schools flagpole to pray for their families, friends, school, churches, and communities. Building 410, which was so Please see MASONS, page A-2 Dexter and Dan Early on the Lions Park boat ramp, Niceville, having So they tied the carcass to the year with 966 players ranging in age from 3 to 18. Most age groups will start playoffs on November Please see EXPO, page A-4 landed a 12-foot alligator in nearby Toms Bayou. Courtesy photo Please see GATOR, page A-5 10. Beacon photos by Paula Mims

A+ Painting Dermatology Surgery Center Immanuel Anglican Church Okaloosa Makes Cents Smileology A+ Painting CCB Community Bank Gulf Coast Dental McLaughlin Funeral Ritz Salon A+ Painting Dermatology Surgery Center Geico Mullet Festival Committee Rhino Shield Advanced Home Repair Diamond Works L'Orange Auto Import Service One Hour Air Conditioning So Stinkin' Cute A+ Painting Diamond Works Gulf Coast Hearing Center One Hour Smileology Advanced Home Repair Dermatology Surgery Center Gulf Coast Hearing Center Niceville Hearing Center Serta Advanced Home Repair Diamond Works Gotta Git Taxi Niceville Hearing Center Ritz Salon Ashley Home Store Dr. Amber Wiebe Lighthouse Services Ottesen Family Dentistry Summit II In Hair Advanced Home Repair Dr. Amber Wiebe Immanuel Anglican Church Ottesen Family Dentistry Spectrum Painting Affordable Climate Control Diamond Works Huff Investments Niceville Insurance Simpler Carpet Bayou Book Co. Dr. Amber Wiebe Gulf Coast Dental Niceville Insurance Simpler Carpet Bayou Book Co. E & D Pressure Washing Lily Pads Prescription Place Twin Cities Transmission Ashley Home Store E & D Pressure Wash L'Orange Auto Import Service Publix Summit II In Hair Bass Pro Dr. Amber Wiebe Immanuel Anglican Church Okaloosa Makes Cents Smileology Bayou Tree Service E & D Pressure Wash Gulf Coast Hearing Center One Hour Smileology Bayou Tree Service Eglin Federal Credit Union LJ Schooners Publix Walton County Bayou Tree Service Eglin Federal Credit Union Lighthouse Therapy Purdy Painting Twin Cities Transmission Bayou Book Co. E & D Pressure Washing L'Orange Auto Import Service Ollie's Bargain Outlet Summit II In Hair Best Buy Carpet East of Eden Thrift Store Immanuel Anglican Church Ottesen Family Dentistry Summit II In Hair Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Emerald Coast Boat Club Mattress Depot Purdy Painting Winn-Dixie Best Buy Carpet Emerald Coast Boat Club Mattress Depot Rhino Shield Winn-Dixie Bayou Tree Service Eglin Federal Credit Union Lighthouse Therapy Ottesen Family Dentistry Twin Cities Transmission Carriage Hills Realty Eglin Federal Credit Union L'Orange Auto Import Service PakMail of BWB Twin Cities Transmission Best Buy Carpet Geico McLaughlin Funeral Home Rhino Shield Carriage Hills Realty Geico Niceville Insurance Ritz Salon Benjamin Franklin Emerald Coast Boat Club Loomis Bros. Circus Publix Walton County Solid Waste CCB Community Bank Emerald Coast Boat Club Lighthouse Therapy Publix Walker's ACE Hardware Carriage Hills Realty Gulf Coast Dental Niceville Family Dental Ritz Salon Dermatology Surgery Center Gulf Coast Dental Northwest Florida State College Simpler Carpet Best Buy Carpet Friends of ECSP LOWE'S Purdy Painting Winn-Dixie Crosspoint UMC Eyewear Unlimited Mattress Depot Purdy Painting Winn-Dixie Crosspoint UMC Gulf Coast Hearing Center Niceville Insurance Agency Simpler Carpet Carriage Hills Realty Geico Mattress Depot Rhino Shield

The voice of Niceville, Bluewater Bay and Valparaiso since 1992 Wednesday, January 2, 2019 THE BAY BEACON Page A-7

THE INquIRING PHoToGRAPHER —by Mike Griffith What would you like to accomplish in 2019? Location: Ollie’s

“I’ve accomplished most “Further my education.” “Get my house fixed “Survive, and live “I’d like to lose weight. I “Learn to run track.” of my own goals, so Kyra Kerrigan, 23, from Hurricane Michael.” another year.” was doing pretty well Linell McKissick, 7, now I look forward to Niceville, Austin Hackimer, 43, Vernon Terry, 68, until the holidays.” Navarre, helping my children LPN Panama City, Rock Hill, SC, Kathy Casey, 71, Holly-Navarre accomplish theirs.” medical technician retired Niceville, Primary School Mike Odom, 49, retired student Crestview, contractor

What should we ask next week? Email your suggested question to: [email protected] Include "Suggested IP question" in the "subject" field.

Apartment project announced

A Niceville company said it would build a 305-unit apartment complex in the city’s north- east quadrant. The project, by Marin Development Inc., is financed by Transcontinental Realty Investors Inc., Dallas, according to a company statement. Called The Enclave at Deer Moss Creek, the upscale buildings will be situated on the Ruckel tract, a 1,114-acre, largely undeveloped area east of Forest Road. Groundbreaking is set for August, with leasing to begin in 2021, according to the developer. Developer’s rendering

[email protected] The voice of Niceville, Bluewater Bay and Valparaiso since 1992 (850) 678-1080 [email protected] The voice of Niceville, Bluewater Bay and Valparaiso since 1992 (850) 678-1080 Police Blotter [email protected] The voice of Niceville, Bluewater Bay and Valparaiso since 1992 (850) 678-1080 [email protected] The voice of Niceville, Bluewater Bay and Valparaiso since 1992 (850) 678-1080 52/)+ Police Blotter

25::+8 , The page A-3 The
, The  The page A-5 Bay Beacon Bay Beacon  Bay Beacon Bay BeacHometowno Christmasn BBaayy BBeeaaccoonn BBaayy BBeeaaccoonn Special Section Inside 8 Pages, 1 Section, 6 Inserts 50¢ 14 Pages, 2 Sections, 5 Inserts 50¢ Wednesday, November 7, 2018 Wednesday, November 14, 2018  '-+9!+):/54 49+8:9 %+*4+9*'>5<+3(+8   @ 8 Pages, 1 Section, 6 Inserts Wednesday, November 28, 2018 50¢

Elections officials and Okaloosa County completes Canvassing Board members Work begins to replace oversee machine recount of     Okaloosa County ballots. The bee’s knees in Valp. its share of state vote recount Inset: Bags and boxes of bal- relaxing, and I thought: 'That Beekeeper Ed Crosby tends lots awaited recount. span over Toms Bayou The north- Beacon Staff work at 8 a.m. Sunday in his       An apiarist spreads the word sounds great.'" hives in his back yard in Election results, A-3. Photos by Beacon Staff & (inset) Louise McGirr Valparaiso. "Bees are very Beacon Staff underway in earnest on the two- lion was spent on design. The bound span of Crestview office to start recount- >/1+8/,,/:. with his wife, Darcee, and their deployed three months at a time, Crosby, 78, an Air Force Okaloosa County elections By Cynthia Richardson book, he said. “And later, I important,” he says. year project, traffic flow will be DOT has variously estimated the Toms workers labored over the holiday of one percent: U.S. Senate, ing the 135,000 ballots cast in the
   sons, Cavender, 11, Cayden, 10, followed by six months at home, '6:58-'4':./9./9=/,+ retiree who again retired in 2000 Preliminary work began this Bayou bridge Beacon Correspondent bought it. She writes about bees, Beacon photos by Cynthia Richardson temporarily restricted on the the completion date as July weekend to conduct their part of a Florida governor, and county. They completed their Air Force Capt. Morgan Caius, 3, Coulson, 2, and then deploying again. '8)++'4*:.+/8,/<+)./2*8+4 after a second career with a Fort week to replace the aging north- (left) will be ;654./98+:;84,853./92':+9: Ed Crosby keeps five bee- but it's mainly about her love of 700-foot bridge, a key link in 2020 and the fall of 2020. statewide recount of three close state agriculture commis- work on Monday, normally Mathis is thankful to be home Callahan, 18 months. The cou- Walton Beach tech company, bound span of the Toms Bayou replaced, while Mathis said that he flies a /858)+*+625>3+4: hives in his back yard in bees rather than a technical the John Sims Parkway contests for office at stake in the sioner. a county holiday in obser- for the holidays this year. He is ple is also expecting a new little has been a beekeeper for four bridge in Valparaiso, and to The job will replace the the south- military version of the Dornier  Valparaiso. Four are his, the book on how to raise bees.” approach to the busy East Gate Nov. 6 general election. Recount results are vance of Veterans Day. a pilot with the 524th Special boy to be born next month. years. He is treasurer of the widen the southbound span. older, two-lane northbound bound one will 328, an aircraft commonly used other he keeps for a neighbor, “And when I read it, her talk- of Eglin Air Force Base. Florida Secretary of State Ken due in Tallahassee on Also on hand was Operations Squadron, based at local beekeeper association. After completion, each span will span. The new structure will be widened. “I’m very excited to be home as a civilian commuter airliner, also a beekeeper. ing about how you worked on The Florida Department of include two 12-foot travel lanes, Beacon photo Detzner on Saturday ordered all Thursday. Some 8 mil- Okaloosa County’s Duke Field. for Thanksgiving and Christmas but which has features that make Above all, however, his pas- continue to host two travel When asked what spurred his the bees, it was one of those Transportation project is being an eight-foot shoulder, and a 67 counties to perform machine lion ballots were cast Canvassing Board, the three this year,” said Mathis. “I was it suitable for certain special sion for the honey-making lanes, with the addition of paved Mathis recently returned to love of bees, Crosby produced a activities that you just leave all performed by Scott Bridge Co., five-foot sidewalk. recounts of ballots in races for statewide. officials chosen to discern gone during Thanksgiving and operations missions. The insects includes a desire to shoulders. Paul Lux Niceville from a three-month copy of “A Book of Bees” by your troubles and everything. Opelika, Ala., on an $8.46 mil- which vote totals of the top two Okaloosa County the voter’s apparent intent Christmas last year.” German-built, twin-engine tur- spread the good word about The newer, two-lane south- deployment, and hopes to spend Sue Hubbell. You don't think about anything Once construction getslion contract. Another $1.5 mil- candidates were separated by Supervisor of Elections Paul Lux for any ballot that could not be Please see SPAN, page A-6 the next six months at home Mathis said he is typically 2+'9+9++&!6'-+ but working on the bees. It's so Please see BEES, page A-3 between one-quarter and one-half summoned his staff to report to read by machine. By law, the "Years ago, I found this Please see RECOUNT, page A-2 911 call Celebrating Native American heritage Honoring those who served Sheriff
          
  Let the reindeer games begin F-22s find functions warns of   temporary merging jury-duty   home By Mike Griffith Beacon Correspondent at Eglin The Okaloosa County swindle   Beacon Staff Commission has approved a plan Beacon Staff >/1+8/,,/:. Area residents will be hear- to hand over oversight of its
   The Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office ing more of the “sound of free- Niceville-based 911 emergency The Okaloosa County Commission said area residents are getting scam calls dom” for the next four months fire and medical dispatch service adopted an ordinance to strengthen from someone claiming to be a a sheriff’s or so. to the sheriff’s office. enforcement against owners who allow deputy, and at least one person who fell for The first six of a projected 28 In a report to the commission their yards to look like junk yards. the scheme is out $1,500 as a result. F-22 fighter jets arrived at Eglin preceding adoption of the meas- The ordinance, which applies to speci- “The caller ID showed ‘Okaloosa Air Force Base last week, ure last month, county staffers fied unincorporated areas, was adopted by County’ in one of the cases and the caller according to the Air Force. said: “Consolidation of 911 dis- the commission Nov. 6, in Crestview. identified himself as an OCSO deputy,” said The warplanes, part of the patching services between the It was presented by county Growth sheriff’s spokeswoman Michele Nicholson. 325th Fighter Wing, an opera- Okaloosa County Public Safety Management Director Elliot Kampert. In a “He told the victim he had missed jury tional training unit, were based Department and the sheriff has written statement to the commission, duty and would be held in criminal con- at Tyndall Air Force Base, been reviewed a number of times Kampert said the measure, drafted at the tempt if he didn’t pay $500 for a fine, and Panama City, which was devas- over the past several years.” request of the commission itself, was $400 for court fees,” Nicholson said. The tated by Hurricane Michael on “Currently, the communica- intended “to address the cleanup of prop- caller told the victim his phone was being Oct. 10. Most of Tyndall’s F- tions hardware is in need of erties on which junkyard-like conditions or tracked via GPS and if he didn’t comply, he 22’s, were flown to other instal- replacement, and consolidating proliferation of litter has occurred, includ- would be arrested. lations ahead of the storm, this purchase for law enforce- ing strengthening of the enforcement pro- The caller told though some remained behind ment, EMS and fire will provide visions, especially for repeat violations.” the victim to go to a because they were deemed not considerable cost savings for the Repeat violators are now subject to store, buy two ready to fly. But the last of these county,” the report stated. civil fines of $500 a day. “Green Dot” pre- have now been moved to “Further, the FY18-19 budget “This is intended to help preclude the paid Visa cards, and Langley Air Force Base, Va., realized a savings of $650,000 in onset of community blight,” Kampert said. give him the card according the Air Force. deferred costs by anticipated Scam artists sought He stated that the ordinance was draft- numbers. During the next four months, restructuring and consolidation of payment via prepaid ed at the request of the county commis- “The caller then the Tyndall wing will base as staffing resources.” debit cards. sion. During a meeting Sept. 4, commis- advised the victim many as 28 F-22s at Eglin, “The sheriff currently handles sion Chairman Kelly Windes “brought to one of the cards was no good and had him along with about 525 pilots, the majority of 911 calls and has the board’s attention a property for which purchase another one for an additional ground crews and others from agreed to assume the oversight for he has received numerous, ongoing com- $500,” the sheriff’s spokeswoman said. the Panama City base, accord- this public safety function,” plaints of junk and litter, and for which he The caller then had the victim drive to a ing to an Eglin spokesman quot- according to the report. The expressed the desire that the county’s code sheriff’s office branch in Crestview where, switch is expected to take effect enforcement processes be strengthened to Please see EGLIN, page A-4 he said, a deputy would meet him. When no Jan. 1. allow swifter and more permanent resolu- officer arrived, the victim call the real sher- Okaloosa County Director of tion to such problems,” Kampert stated. iff’s office. Public Safety Stefan Vaughn told The measure tightens the definition of In another case on Nov. 6, a woman the Beacon that “the consolidation “junkyard-like conditions” to address received a telephone call from a man claim- “conditions created by materials that do Please see 911, page A-2 ing to be an Okaloosa sheriff’s deputy. He not meet the definition of litter but which, gave the woman a similar story, and had her if allowed to remain on property in an buy $1,500 in prepaid debit cards, and give unprotected and disorderly condition, him the numbers. An Air Force F-22 from hurri- cause the same complaints and concerns as cane-damaged Tyndall Air “These scams are quite common and can litter,” Kampert said. Force Base lands at Eglin Air be extremely difficult to trace,” said The new standard would apply within Force Base Nov. 20. Some 28 Nicholson. “So the best way to fight them is The Twin Cities Veterans Council honored those who served in U.S. armed forces during a Veterans day ceremony Saturday at Amvets Post 78, the county’s Urban Development Tyndall F-22s reportedly will be through prevention and education. While some area residents spent the weekend shopping or walking off their Thanksgiving meal at Turkey Creek, others were getting ready for Christmas. Some Valparaiso. Keynote speaker was Lt. Gen. James Sherrard (ret.), former commander, Air Force Reserve Command. The city of Valparaiso was rep- 45;:*558)+8+354>:.':/4)2;*+*('4*3;9/)'68+9+4:':/545,)52589'4*4;3+85;996++).+93'81+*:.+5< 56+4/4-5,1'2559'5;4:>A9 Boundary, its the Rural Community were picking out a freshly cut fir from a lot in Niceville. The merchant normally sells 700 to 800 Christmas trees a year from the location, ranging in height temporarily based at Eglin until Legitimate operations would not require a the Panama City installation resented by Mayor Brent Smith, and Niceville by Mayor Pro Tem Sal Nodjomian. Twenty-five wreaths were presented by local organizations. “Taps” 4+=)5;8:.5;9+/48+9:+85,:.+
3/22/54(;/2*/4- .5:595,68+)5;8:.5;9+99*+*/)':/54)+8+ Overlays for Holt and Baker, and within all from five to 12 feet. The city of Niceville had its holiday decorations up at city hall and the police department. Area residents, too, were busy putting up was played by Neil Woods. Beacon photos by Paula Mims person to purchase prepaid or gift cards and 354/+9'4*96++).+9:55162')+/45;8:85536+562+=+8+/4*3/4/9:8':585.45,9:'*);::.+9>3(52/)56+4/4-8/((54 Park Saturday evening. Beacon photos by Paula Mims ipants from Native American tribes throughout the Southeast and beyond with the aim of encouraging “participation and goodwill between Native and non-Native per- manage all 911 call functions ,,/)+95,:.+2+815,5;8:'='/:+*,;84/:;8+'96+562+:5;8+*:.+(;/2*/4-    acre, of which more than half are in indi- Michael last month. Air Force photo sons.” Among the scenes pictured are Saturday's grand entry, the intertribal honor guard, and the host drum event. Beacon photos by Paula Mims in the county dispatch center vidual ownership. in Niceville. Beacon file photo Delays still plague $24 million courthouse
   $5:+8+)5;4: Storm refuge 
 bridge traffic data approaches completion A dedication Elks give ceremony >>4:./' /).'8*954 were represented, including /9)5362+:+* By Mike Griffith bridge authority is receiving its City shelters hospital evacuees By Mike Griffith the building is planned for 9 began in January 2017, after it and public
   painting, woodworking and 9:':+=/*+.'4*8+)5;4:5,953+('225:9/4:=5 Beacon Correspondent toll revenue on a timely basis, open house dictionaries By Cynthia Richardson Cities Hospital, Niceville. Niceville team aids Beacon Correspondent a.m. Friday, followed by a day- was determined that it would be Local artists, crafters weaving. )54:+9:9 ,58 6;(2/) 5,,/)+ /4 :.+ 5< -+4+8'2 The Florida Turnpikebut lacks the customary month- Beacon Correspondent "Corporate called and said, 'We County Administrator John long public open house. too difficult and costly to reno- for the new +2+):/54 ='9 )5362+:+* !;4*'> )54,/83/4- :.+ by-month accounting for the Okaloosa and authors gathered in One of the most Authority is still struggling to Many people displaced by need somewhere for our employ- Hofstad told the county com- During the meeting at city vate the old courthouse, built in the Niceville widely published 4'885= <5:+9 ,58 :.+ 5,,/)+ /4 7;+9:/54 "./9 which was installed earlier this overdrafts for some when the in the annual campaign. Pictured with their families, who would soon “They told us we needed to They also cleared downed trees, fences and debris, nearing completion ingone smoothly. Fountain said the work of these departments Holiday Festival, was includes over 40 ='9':/4>6+8)+4:'-+5,:.+358+:.'43/22/54 year to keep track of traffic and money was finally collected, Eglin Elementary School students and find themselves without a place to make some sort of shelter," Wise according to team member Vern McGraw. Pictured, Crestview, containing meeting the project has been noteworthy will continue to be conducted sponsored by the novels, including )'9: /):;8+* 1'2559' 5;4:> '4<'99/4- revenue for toll roads statewide. sometimes all at once. their teacher is Elk Rick Woelf. work or dwellings to house them. said. Mike Mihalcik, Niceville. Courtesy photo chambers for the county com- for its lack of significant delays from offices in the south-county Niceville Library and its $/)1//4?+ thrillers, mysteries 5'8* 3+3(+89 " '::+8954 '4+> 2+,: '4* At present, he said, the latest In other matters, during a Assisting was Elk Joe Arthur, not "As soon as Michael got into Twin Cities Hospital’s chief mission. or cost overruns. communities of Fort Walton Friends of the Library. and romance, published in 63 +22> %/4*+9 658+ 5<+8 8+)5;4:+* ('225:9 ': :.+ official data for traffic and rev- meeting Nov. 15 of the Mid-Bay shown. )5;4:> +2+):/549 5,,/)+ /4 8+9: the Gulf and looked like he was executive, David Whalen, asked A dedication ceremony for Construction of the new Beach and Shalimar. In addition to written works, enue for the Mid-Bay Bridge are Bridge Authority (MBBA) gov-    coming, my job started," said Niceville City Manager Lannie courthouse in the county seat Please see COURT, page A-3 many kinds of art and crafts 2+'9+9++ "$"&6'-+ from May. erning board in Niceville, Fuller Corbin for space to house the Sharon Wise, emergency pre- Fuller said Monday that the Please see TRAFFIC, page A-4 paredness coordinator for Twin Please see REFUGE, page A-2 A+ Painting City of DeFuniak Springs Flora Saxon Linda Zickler Ritz Salon AA Auto Clinic Crazy Madhatters Salon-De-Tea Geico Lowe's Simmons A+ Painting Carr, Riggs, and Ingram, CPAs Gulf Coast Dental McLaughlin Funeral Sears Hometown Store A+ Painting Carriage Hills Realty Geico Niceville Hearing Center Samuel Peek Advanced Home Repair Dermatology Surgery Center Gulf Coast Dental Mattress Depot Simpler Carpet AA Auto Clinic Carriage Hills Realty Gulf Coast Hearing Center N.W. Florida Coin Shoe Carnival A+ Painting Carriage Hills Realty Gulf Coast Hearing Center Niceville Insurance So Stinkin' Cute AA Auto Clinic Dermatology Surgery Center Gulf Coast Dental Niceville Insurance Agency Serta Basil & Baxters Diamond Works Gulf Coast Hearing Center McLaughlin Funeral Smileology Advanced Home Repair Dermatology Surgery Center Heritage Jewelers Niceville Hearing Center Simmons AA Auto Clinic CCB Community Bank Immanuel Anglican Church One Hour Air Conditioning Summit II In Hair Advanced Home Repair Diamond Works Gulf Coast Hearing Center Ollie's Bargain Outlet Simpler Carpet Bayou Book Co. Dr. Amber Wiebe Hometown Christmas/DeFuniak Niceville Family Dental Summit II In Hair Ashley Home Store Diamond Works Immanuel Anglican Church Niceville High School Chorus Simpler Carpet Advanced Home Repair City of Valparaiso L'Orange Auto Ottesen Family Dentistry Twin Cities Transmission Affordable Climate Control Storage Dr. Amber Wiebe Home Cleaning Co. One Hour Air Conditioning Smileology Bayou Tree Service E & D Pressure Washing Immanuel Anglican Church Niceville Hearing Center Twin Cities Transmission Bayou Book Co. Dog Gone Cute Keller Williams Realty Emerald Coast Niceville Insurance Agency Smileology Affordable Climate Control Storage Dermatology Surgery Center Lighthouse Therapy Prescription Place Walker's ACE Hardware American Legion Post 221 E & D Pressure Washing Immanuel Anglican Church Ottesen Family Dentistry Summit II In Hair Best Buy Carpet Eglin Federal Credit Union Indulge! Niceville Insurance Agency Walker's ACE Hardware Bayou Tree Service Dr. Amber Wiebe L'Orange Auto Import Service Ollie's Bargain Outlet Southern Roots Salon & Spa Amanda Grandy Diamond Works Linda Zickler Publix Wayne Goodson Ashley Home Store Eglin Federal Credit Union L'Orange Auto Import Service Prescription Place Torch Technologies Boathouse Landing Emerald Coast Boat Club JD Jewelers One Hour Air Conditioning Winn-Dixie Benjamin Franklin E & D Pressure Washing Lighthouse Therapy Ottesen Family Dentistry Summit II In Hair Angie's Home Watch E & D Pressure Washing Lowe's Purdy Painting Willingham Seafood Bayou Book Co. Emerald Coast Boat Club Lighthouse Therapy Publix Twin Cities Transmission Carriage Hills Realty Emerald Coast Nursery Katie's House of Flowers Ottesen Family Dentistry Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Eglin Federal Credit Union Lily Nails PakMail of Bluewater Bay The Prescription Place Ashley Home Store Eglin Federal Credit Union Mattress Depot Rhino Shield Winn-Dixie Bayou Tree Service Fantastic Sams Mattress Depot Purdy Painting CCB Community Bank Eye M.D. of Niceville L'Orange Auto Import Service Publix Best Buy Carpet Emerald Coast Boat Club LJ Schooners Purdy Painting Twin Cities Transmission Bayou Book Co. Emerald Coast Boat Club McLaughlin Funeral Ritz Salon Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices First Baptist Church of Niceville McLaughlin Funeral Rhino Shield Chef Ernie’s at the Eglin Golf Course Fantastic Sams Lighthouse Therapy Purdy Painting Bluewater Fitness Eyewear Unlimited Lowes Rhino Shield Winn-Dixie Bayou Tree Service Geico N.W. Florida Coin Simpler Carpet Best Buy Carpet Friends of ECSP Niceville Family Dental Ritz Salon Citizens Real Estate First Baptist Church of Niceville Lily Pads Interior Market Rhino Shield Bluewater Orthopedics Geico Mattress Depot Ritz Salon Best Buy Carpet Gulf Coast Dental Niceville Hearing Center Smileology

[email protected] The voice of Niceville, Bluewater Bay and Valparaiso since 1992 (850) 678-1080 [email protected] The voice of Niceville, Bluewater Bay and Valparaiso since 1992 (850) 678-1080 [email protected] The voice of Niceville, Bluewater Bay and Valparaiso since 1992 (850) 678-1080 [email protected] The voice of Niceville, Bluewater Bay and Valparaiso since 1992 (850) 678-1080 Police Blotter 30.(* .+("$ -*' !#*-11#/ 03 +. 77*5 22$0 ,

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) *--0 with Niceville dollars and for !-* .(*9.00* *2.35 -2,16 & 0   Niceville residents.” *27*5 -*0) .76 ,5&2)           &'/#" #5 0 to speed enrollment The center, at 201 Campbell 34*2.2, !8*6)&<  +/ 0 (1..%%("( +1 0$$6/+.0 !-+. ,6 1- <<27-.& .(-&5)632 ready for a new challenge— New technology valued 7(*$0(%%(2' Niceville Fire Chief Tommy (-&2'$/.11(!(+(27.%,$0&(-& 6')#/'$$'1& The $14.9 million pact is likely chairman during the coming year, -.#/ 1#'101/-2 By Mike Griffith during a meeting in Niceville. that students and others may use
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     to result in reduced operating succeeding Graham Fountain, and *#.* %2#" Beacon Correspondent The upgrades include new com- their own computers to receive The new Niceville Senior other end of the age spectrum. city recreation fields, will cater boost student enrollment 332*< The Valparaiso City tional job as chief of the 2(.-1 .% 2'$  +/ 0 (1. Okaloosa County residents hours and higher fares for cus- chose Commissioner Trey 1/ ,0'1 0601#+ Northwest Florida State puters and systems for quickly immediate answers to inquiries Center has a crew that worked “We are going to have a lot to to residents ages “55 and better.” -,
  +'* and retention is in place It has been extensively remod-      Commission has approved an Valparaiso department after the .+3-2$$0 (0$ $/ 02,$-2 may have to pay more for reduced tomers who ride county buses. Goodwin as vice chairman, suc- College has equipped its newly processing emails and phone made to the college. in the newly remodeled hard to make sure it was ready offer here,” Mooney said. “Our 5(2'2'.1$.%2'$("$4(++$(0$ *'-, !-,1/ !1   initiative that may lead to com- sudden retirement of its previ- bus transportation services during Commissioners also approved ceeding Windes. remodeled student services calls from students. Last week the college held a student services building for its grand opening, which outside cooking area, our exer- eled following its previous life $/ 02,$-2 #/# !-2,16 as a building at the ordnance- bining certain operations of the ous fire chief earlier this year, the coming year. a merger between Sheriff’s Office During the commission’s Dec. building on the Niceville campus The phone system, he said, grand opening ceremony for the at Northwest Florida took place Tuesday. cise room, a pool table, two ping     20 .'!)0 2. city’s fire department with those briefed Valparaiso commission- County commissioners unani- dispatchers and Fire/Emergency 18 meeting in Shalimar, county with $1 million in technology tells callers their place in line renovated student services build- State College. Among them is the center’s pong tables, a whole computer disposal school on Eglin Air . 00#,%#/ ', of Niceville’s. ers on recent changes and future mously approved a contract with a Medical Services dispatchers at Administrative Services Director '!#3'**# improvements, according to col- and approximate hold times, as ing, part of which has been Beacon photo by Mike Griffith manager, Julie Mooney, of lab. We’ll have people coming Force Base. The 9,200-square- options. new provider of public bus service the county 911 call center in Greg Kisela briefed county com-   lege Vice President Nathaniel well as tracking the type and renamed Raider Central. Bluewater Bay. After the past in to teach yoga, tai-chi, and foot structure adjoins a generous During a meeting Dec. 10, During November, Mayville throughout the county, replacing Niceville. missioners on the new contract    Slaton. duration of calls handled. “Raider Central is part of the six years working in the chil- things like wellness seminars. courtyard dotted by dining Valparaiso commissioners dis- said, the Valparaiso department the current contractor, which has In other business, commission- with Dallas-based MV Slaton briefed college The computer system also college's reimagined Student dren’s ministry of Crosspoint While there is some stuff for tables and decorative pools. cussed the status of the “We want to reach people been plagued with service com- ers chose Commissioner Kelly Transportation Inc. to provide bus trustees on the upgrades Nov. 27 includes a live chat feature, so Please see COLLEGE, page A-2 Church in Niceville, Mooney is seniors in the area, this is funded Valparaiso Volunteer Fire +$ 1$1$$
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   The Okaloosa County A woman was wounded in By Mike Griffith Commission approved a new For many children, receiving an apparent drive-by shooting Beacon Correspondent strategic plan during a Dec. 4 clothing for Christmas seems in Niceville early Friday, The Okaloosa County meeting in Crestview. like the most boring of presents. according to police. Commission is seeking money to They would rather have toys, Commissioners also prepared to The Niceville Police help the city of Niceville add 1.7 games or electronics. ban on-the-job smoking by coun- Department received a report at acres of waterfront property to its For other youngsters, howev- ty employees, and approved 1:24 a.m. that a motorist had Niceville Landing project on er, clothing is a dire necessity, plans to provide bear-resistant been shot in the abdomen. Bayshore Drive. and an unmet need which trash cans to county residents. Investigators learned that she The commission on Nov. 20 The strategic plan was Bluewater Bay resident Nancy approved steps toward submis- Roberts is trying to fill, especial- was wounded “in what appears approved as part of the “consent to be a drive-by shooting” by sion of Restore Act grant paper- agenda” of the meeting. The con- ly during the holidays. work to obtain $489,289 toward The retired nurse and her hus- someone in a passing sedan on sent agenda includes those items John Sims Parkway near the purchase. that require commission band, Don, a retired business- According to a statement from man, have spent the last year and Regions Bank, according to a approval, but are usually of a rou- police statement. County Administrator John tine nature, requiring no discus- a half as volunteers for the Hofstad and staff member sion among board members Guardian ad Litem program A suspect Stephanie Herrick, the city’s before being voted upon. serving Okaloosa, Escambia, and vehicle was “Economic Revitalization of The updated strategic plan Santa Rosa counties. Guardian described as Niceville’s Historic Old includes the following vision and ad Litem volunteers assist the a grey sedan Downtown Project was included mission statements: court system by serving as advo- with black on the Restore Act Direct “Vision statement: Okaloosa cates and caseworkers for chil- rims, leav- Component Initial Multiyear Plan County will excel at providing an dren who have been removed ing the scene which was accepted by the U.S. unmatched economic opportuni- from their families due to abuse on John Department of the Treasury ty and quality of place and life or neglect, or are involved in cus- Sims. Both (Treasury) on June 30, 2017.” for all citizens and visitors while tody disputes or other situations vehicles were Subsequently, the county has maintaining low taxes and limit- that require court intervention. traveling west. been working with the Treasury ing regulation.” Such children often need help The victim was able to stop Department to ensure Okaloosa “Mission statement: To in obtaining medical care, other her vehicle without further inci- County policies are compliant engage our private and public forms of therapy, special educa- dent. She was transported to with federal standards for its own sector partners to provide unpar- tion needs, and a responsible Fort Walton Medical Center, application for grant money to alleled infrastructure, economic adult to represent their interests where she was listed in stable help with the city project. The condition without life-threaten- opportunity and excellence in +$ 1$1$$
/ &$  county is seeking $489,289 critical services to enhance the ing injuries, police stated. which it would then award to quality of life for all residents It was unknown how many Niceville toward the proposed and visitors.” occupants were in the suspect Please see LANDING, page A-2 The plan lists 15 goals: vehicle, and no motives were —Improve the County’s com- known Friday morning as the petitiveness in attracting, hiring, Bay Beacon went to press, retaining, training, and removal according to police. as appropriate of personnel. Anyone with information —Ensure an appropriate level was asked to contact the &785)&<
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7)&14*264.5.763+7-36*&77*2).2,7-**5.7&,*86*81>6&228&0%80*3+%*67*5<*&5+*67.9&0&7*55.2*&5/#&04&5&.63 of growth at the county’s airports 0&/'01' ,04-/*"4'"#./#. /#"1-!#*# / 1#1&# '/1&-$1&#'/ 3'-/ /# /#0'"#,10% 1&#/#"1-3'#4 *'3# 1'3'160!#,#01 %#" 6+#+ #/0-$ *. / '0- Niceville Police Department, Winter sports are underway at area schools. From soccer fields to gyms to weight rooms, athletes from Niceville High School, Rocky Bayou Christian School, Lewis 86.(&0,538464*5+351*).2(08).2,4.(785*)7-*1*5&0)3&67-3586&2)7-* 8,&5*&(--3586-.0)5*21&)*-5.671&6352&1*276&2)436*)+35 while maximizing user-based '/01 00#+ *6-$-"3#/ .#-.*# 11#,"#"1&#14-" 6#3#,1#,(-6#"1&#01-/6-$#020&/'0180 '/1&1--). /1',& 6/'"#0!2""*#"/ '10 4-3736:.7- &27&0&8633)&2)(5&+769*2)356:*5*32-&2)#.6.7356733/.2'0&(/61.7-.2,)*132675&7.326&2)7385*)186*81*;-.'.76"44*50*+7  Det. John Lee or Det. Travis School, and Ruckel Middle School are competing in wrestling, girls weightlifting, competitive cheer, soccer, and basketball through February. Last week, the Niceville fees to finance growth and oper- ,"!#*# / 1#"1&#/# 0-,$-/1&#0# 0-,      High boys soccer team beat Choctaw and Rocky Bayous girls and boys basketball teams were defeated by Paxton. Nicevilles girls basketball team cruised past Gulf <*&530)*2*034*&5/.263+#&04&5&.631&/*6&,.2,*5'5*&)352&1*27      Howell, 850-729-4030. Breeze, and the Eagles competitive cheer team rooted for the basketball teams as they competed at Choctaw. This week, in soccer, Ruckel will play Pryor at Twin Oaks 0*&6*6** 4&,*  -"7.!$021".++$"21"+.2' The view from a waterfront on Wednesday (5 & 6:15 p.m.), Niceville High girls will meet Pace on Thursday at Twin Oaks (5 & 7 p.m.), and Niceville boys will face Chiles on Friday at Twin Oaks (6 (-& -$$#$# !7 "'(+#0$- 5'. parcel proposed for purchase  230# 791 5$ 2'$0 /0.4$# /$0%$"2 %.0 2'$ ".,,3-(2791 --3 + '0(12, 1 / 0 #$
1/.-1.0$# !7 2'$ ("$4(++$ +/ 0 (1. .2 07 +3! 3-#0$#1 +(-$# 2'$ p.m.). Also Friday, in basketball the Niceville High boys will host Gulf Breeze (4, 5:30, & 7 p.m.), and the Niceville girls will face Walton at NWF State College (5:30 p.m.). 0$3-#$0".30213/$04(1(.- by the city of Niceville. 120$$21.%("$4(++$2."$+$!0 2$2'$1$ 1.- //$ 0 -"$1(-"+3#$#("$4(++$ 7.0 -# ++ (1$
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             Special delivery        6')#/'$$'1& through the foreclosures.
  Deputies searching the area
     Regarding one such property, New postmaster reaches out to customers “If you see something, say soon got another tip from a 2 /$ * .32/32
 "0$ 1.+ 0 /.5$0 12  a residence at 363 Washington Valparaiso Postmaster Kelly      The city of Valparaiso has By Cynthia Richardson She began working for the something” is a law-enforce- motorist that a suspicious man 31* 8(/*0 .))0* (-330 2(.-.- (0.0"$+ -#)3125$12.% +/ 0 (1. Ave., Scott told commissioners Lanning, left, pictured with 7(*$0(%%(2' station at Eglin generates about initiated foreclosure proceed- Beacon Correspondent U.S. Postal Service in 1998 as a ment saying. A was outside a house *.,-7- ,5&)*56 5*(*270< " - &$-$0 2$ $-.3&' $+$"20("(27 2. 13//+7 in a written report, “Total to date !-++#/!' * 2'*"',% 1  postal clerk Jamee
   30 megawatts (MW) of electric- 
'.,$1-1$2 $0( +4($5 ings against three rundown -&, '+0  /)4 6 Valparaiso has a new postmas- temporary mail carrier in Niceville resident on Lost Horse Circle, 5*7852*) +531 $&6-.2,732 of money owed the city from Masengale, tells customers ity at peak output–enough to     properties.  *. / '0-'0-,#-$1&/##/2, Niceville. She was soon hired as who did just that in the Magnolia +3003:.2,7-*.54&57.(.4& On Tuesday, Dec. 11, code enforcement actions is ter who is an experienced hand at “this is their post office.” 7.32 .2 :5*&7-0&<.2, &7 7-* power 4,500 homes. The three During a Dec. 10 meeting, "-4, ./-.#/1'#0 % ',01 a clerk and ultimately promoted Plantation gated reporters were given a tour and $10,100. The Dec. 1 deadline postal work. Beacon photos by Cynthia Richardson helped the Okaloosa !31'3+7-*"2/23:2 30).*5 fields together can generate up the city commission was briefed 4&'!& 1&#  *. / '0- '16 into supervision. community. That’s briefing at Gulf Power’s big has passed allowing us to "I've always liked the postal County Sheriff’s &7 50.2,732 &7.32&0 to 120 MW, enough to power by City Administrator Carl -++'00'-, 3-1#" 1- #%', Her first postmaster position where they found 18- solar power station situated on demolish the structure and service, always admired their Office nab an armed *1*7*5< .(785*) :.7- nearly 18,000 homes. Output is Scott, regarding the status of $-/#!*-02/# ./-!##"',%0 0- was in DeFuniak Springs, from year-old Tyler Lee Air Force land just outside restore the property to compli- 1 !-2*" # !*# /#" -$ job," said the postmaster, Kelly burglary suspect last :5*&7- &5* 6&.&- 3532&)3 lower on cloudy days, and, of three unoccupied private proper- 2009 to 2011. She returned to Touchstone of Fort Valparaiso. ance. Not a single demolition "# /'0 ,"2,0 $#01/2!12/#0 Lanning. week. &2) .(30* $.00.&16 *-.2) course, entirely absent at night. ties that have long been deemed Walton Beach, partly 7-*1 &5* +*003: 678)*276 The solar array has been gen- contractor was willing to give      A Tampa native, Lanning Niceville and spent 13 months as Sheriff’s deputies uninhabitable, and took steps inside someone 36*4- &2632 &2) 35)&2 erating electricity since the sum- The solar array just north of the city a turnkey price. There is joined the Air Force and traveled. officer in charge, and ultimately were alerted by toward foreclosing on them in 32+.6(&7*)4.6730 else’s parked &54*5 26*7 78)*276 &2) mer of 2017, and is one of three Highway 85 South and College so much debris in the yard, in When her husband was stationed became Niceville postmaster for someone reporting a order to clear them of unsafe Mercedes, according to a sher- (-&4*532*6.2+53273+7-*"  such fields operated by a Gulf Boulevard, on 240 acres leased the house, in the accessory at Eglin Air Force Base in 1994, six years, until 2017. “suspicious person” wearing a structures and accumulated Lanning, 55, became the post- gray and red hoodie and carry- iff’s report. &4.730 32* 3+ 6*9*5&0 37-*5 Power contractor. The others are from Eglin Air Force Base, has structure, it is impossible to they moved to Crestview, where 6.7*67-*<9.6.7*).27-*(&4.7&0 trash and debris. ing a flashlight and gas can on Deputies detained on two former military airfields some 371,000 photovoltaic pan- guess at the cost to remove.” they raised four daughters. Please see DELIVERY, page A-2 5*,.32 The city’s costs to raze the Lost Horse Circle, Bluewater Touchstone and found a 9mm in Santa Rosa County. “A conservative estimate is +$ 1$1$$ 
/ &$  structures and clear debris are Bay, around 5 a.m. Dec. 4. 0*&6*6** !4&,* On sunny days, the power Please see XXXXXX, page X-X expected to be recovered *# 0#0##. %#  A Healthy Touch Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Geico N.W. Florida Coin Ruckel Properties A+ Painting Best Buy Carpet Gulf Coast Dental Niceville Family Dental Samuel Peek A+ Painting Chef Ernie's at Eglin Golf Course Gulf Coast Dental Local's Public House Eatery Purdy Painting A+ Painting Best Buy Carpet Geico Lowe's Simpler Carpet AA Auto Clinic Carriage Hills Realty Gulf Coast Hearing Center Niceville Hearing Center Sharon Chen, DDS A+ Painting CCB Community Bank Geico Local’s Public House Eatery Rhino Shield AA Auto Clinic Christ Our Redeemer Gulf Coast Hearing Center Mattress Depot Rhino Shield Affordable Climate Control Storage Chapala Mexican Hair Express Niceville Insurance Agency Simpler Carpet AA Auto Clinic City of DeFuniak Springs Gulf Coast Dental LOWE'S Ritz Salon Angie's Home Watch Crazy Madhatters Salon-De-Tea Holt Phillips McLaughlin Funeral Ritz Salon AA Auto Clinic Carriage Hills Realty Gulf Coast Dental Mattress Depot Smileology American House Senior Living Dermatology Surgery Center Immanuel Angelican Church Ollie's Bargain Outlet Smileology Angie's Home Watch Dermatolgoy Surgery Center Gulf Coast Hearing Center McLaughlin Funeral Sears Niceville Bass Pro Dermatology Surgery Center Holy Name of Jesus Niceville Family Dental Simpler Carpet Affordable Climate Control CCB Community Bank Gulf Coast Hearing Center McLaughlin Funeral Summit II In Hair American Legion Post 221 Diamond Works JD Jewelers Ottesen Family Dentistry Summit II In Hair Ashley Home Store Diamond Works Immanuel Anglican Church N.W. Florida Coin Simpler Carpet Bayou Book Co. Diamond Works Honey Baked Ham Niceville Hearing Center Smileology Storage Dermatolgoy Surgery Center Immanuel Angelican Church Niceville Hearing Center The Prescription Place Angie's Home Watch E & D Pressure Washing L'Orange Auto Import Service Panhandle Management Twin Cities Transmission Bass Pro Dr. Amber Wiebe Indulge! Niceville Hearing Center Smileology Bayou Tree Service Dr. Sharon S. Chen DDS Immanuel Angelican Church Niceville Insurance Agency St. Paul Lutheran Church Angie's Home Watch Diamond Works L'Orange Auto Niceville Insurance Twin Cities Transmission Bass Pro Shop Eglin Federal Credit Union Laura’s Pet & Horse Publix VistaPix Media Bayou Book Co. Dr. Sharon S. Chen DDS L'Orange Auto Niceville Insurance Agency Summit II In Hair Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices E & D Pressure Washing JD Jewelers Okaloosa County Tax Collector Summit II In Hair Bass Pro Shop Dr. Sharon S. Chen DDS Lighthouse Therapy Publix Winn Dixie Bayou Book Co. Emerald Coast Boat Club Lighthouse Therapy Purdy Painting Winn-Dixie Bayou Tree Service E & D Pressure Washing Lighthouse Therapy One Hour Air Conditioning Twin Cities Transmission Best Buy Carpet Eglin Federal Credit Union L'Orange Auto Import Service One Hour Twin Cities Transmission Bayou Book Co. E & D Pressure Washing Lily Nails Purdy Painting Bayou Tree Service Fanatastic Sams Lowe's Rhino Shield Workout Anytime Best Buy Carpet Eglin Federal Credit Union Lily Pads Interior Market Publix Winn-Dixie Boathouse Landing Eye M.D. of Niceville Lighthouse Therapy Prescription Place Winn-Dixie Benjamin Franklin Frances Roy Agency McLaughlin Funeral Home Ritz Salon Carriage Hills Realty Eyewear Unlimited LJ Schooners Purdy Painting Bayou Tree Service Eglin Federal Credit Unio Linda Zickler Rhino Shield Carriage Hills Realty Geico Linda Zickler Publix Benjamin Franklin FTCC LJ Schooners Ritz Salon

The voice of Niceville, Bluewater Bay and Valparaiso since 1992 Beacon Express

Page A-8 our Town Wednesday, January 2, 2019 Rocky Bayou spelling bee winners

St. Paul spreads Christmas cheer St. Paul Christian School prepared 65 Christmas baskets to deliver to residents of Belvedere Commons in Ft. Walton Beach.

Pictured are the FACCS (Florida Association of Christian Colleges and Schools) Regional Spelling Bee winners from Rocky Bayou Christian School. Back Row L-R: McKenzie Newsom, Phoebe Riches, Kailey Yang, Calix McCune, Brandon Nosker. Front Row L-R: Briel Coley, Eleanor Gagnon, Ayush Patel, Ava Coffee, William Hanson. Not pictured: Colton Greer.

Mid-Bay Rotary delivers care packages There are 65 care packages on the way to deployed mili- tary members. Each care package contains multiple snack foods, playing cards, etc. Especially significant, each care package contains a hand-written note thanking the deployed service member for their service to our country. Thanks to military, civilian, and family members of the 96th Logistics Readiness Squadron (LRS) and to Mid-Bay Rotary Club members and their spouses who helped with the assembly of the care packages. In addition, Mid-Bay Rotary Club presented an $800 donation to help offset the cost of mailing the care pack- ages. In particular, Mid-Bay thanks American House Senior Living Communities at Bluewater Bay for the use of their wonderful facility for the care package effort and for furnishing a great variety of morning break- fast items. Pictured: Mid-Bay Rotary mem- bers and spouses and 96th LRS Military, civilian and spouses assemble care pack- ages. Mid-Bay Rotary spouse Janice Jean with one of her personalized notes that was inserted into a care package.

SIMPLY THE BEST College holds ribbon cutting At Gulf Coast Hearing Center, we feel we’re the best in town because we offer: Northwest Florida State College held a grand opening and ribbon cutting • OUR NAME BRANDS: Oticon, Phonak, Signia ceremony for their new Raider • MOST UP-TO-DATE DIGITAL TECHNOLOGY Central recently. Raider Central is • FRIENDLY, PROFESSIONAL SERVICE part of the College's reimagined • FAIR, AFFORDABLE PRICES Student Success Center that was • 30 DAY TRIAL PRIVILEGE designed to be a modern concept where students receive all services in Call today for a FREE Hearing Profile JAMES W. DAME one location. The Student Success HAS, BC HIS division of the College offered a guid- - ed tour of Raider Central after the cer- emony. Pictured from left to right are NWF Trustee Maj. Gen. Don Litke, USAF Ret.; NWF SGA President Drew Hannah; NWF Trustee Mrs. Charlotte Flynt; NWF Board of Trustees Chair Mr. Brian Pennington; NWF President 4400 Hwy. 20 E., Ste. 211, Bluewater Bay • (850) 279-4545 Dr. Devin Stephenson; Florida College System Director of Learning, COUPONS $ 00 Reg. Innovation and Success Dr. Angela 1,900 $2,20000 batteries Long and NWF Board of Trustees “Siya 2” All Models & Sizes $3 per pack by Varta Vice-Chair Maj. Gen. Rudy Wright, Expires: 1/31/19 iPhone Compatible Expires: 1/31/19 Limit 4 USAF Ret. HIGH QUALITY • LOW PRICES • EXCEPTIONAL SERVICE All Around The Town

Grant Williams HAS, ACA & General repair Audioprosthologist Brakes • Water Pumps Timing Belts • Struts/Shocks Call now to schedule your no charge, no obligation hearing evaluation and product demonstration. If your test results confirm you have a hearing loss and you choose to leave our office with hearing aids, we invite you to accept our “Try B4U Buy” Offer. NICEVILLE HEARING CENTER 1001 College Blvd., W., Bldg. 2 • Niceville • Expert, Certified Techs • Quality Parts Twin Cities Medical Plaza (850) 678-3277 • FAX: (850) 678-3211 • Detailed Estimates • Friendly Service Email: [email protected] www.NicevilleHearingCenter.com (850) 729-6629

FULL SERVICE HAIR for ladies & men Hair Styling Hi/Low Lites • Shades Hair Color • Perms Pravana Perfection Smooth Out 101 John Sims Pkwy. Niceville Tues-Fri 9-6 • Sat 8-2 Evening Appointments Upon Request Redken Color & Products Kenra Haircare Products

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The voice of Niceville, Bluewater Bay and Valparaiso since 1992