TRAFFIC

Eglin to close roads in Okaloosa for weapons testing on July 28

The 96th Test Wing is scheduled to conduct weapons testing on the Eglin Test and Training Range (ETTR) on July 28, requiring the closure of Highway 85, 285, State Road 123 and Bob Sikes Road.

The roads will be closed between 9 a.m. and noon. The roads will not be closed for more than 90-minute periods within the time frame. In addition to the road closures, the mission will also require the evacuation of the ETTR, according to Eglin.

• Recreation on the range will not be permitted during this time.

All Eglin Range roads and access roads will be closed from Highway 87 to 331 for the duration of the mission. Please note that Highway 87 and 331 will not be closed.

A back-up mission is scheduled for August 18 between 9 a.m. and noon. Click here to see a map of alternate routes.

POLICE BLOTTER

Postal Worker robbed at gunpoint in Fort Walton Beach, suspects arrested in Alabama

On July 21, 2023, the Fort Walton Beach Police Department was called to Bobolink Dr NE, for an armed robbery that had just occurred. A United States Postal Service worker reported that a young black male, approximately 18-25 years of age, approached her, brandished a firearm, and stole her postal box keys. 

• The male then departed the area in a white Mercedes sedan. 
• The postal worker was not harmed, according to the FWBPD.

Shortly after the call for service was received, several leads were developed, and it was discovered the suspects were possibly traveling to Alabama. According to the FWBPD, detectives coordinated with the authorities in Alabama to distribute a “Be On the Look Out” (BOLO) notice for the suspects and vehicle. 

• Approximately 2 hours after the call came in, Montgomery Police observed the suspect’s vehicle. A high-risk traffic stop was conducted, and two suspects were taken into custody without incident.

Keondre Daniels of Montgomery, AL, was charged with one count of Armed Robbery. Marquan Johnson also of Montgomery, AL, was charged with one count of Accessory to Armed Robbery. Both Daniels and Johnson are being held in Montgomery County Jail awaiting extradition back to Florida.

A MESSAGE FROM OKALOOSA GAS

The benefits of using natural gas and its impact on the environment

In the heart of our community, there’s a silent powerhouse that keeps us warm and our homes bright: natural gas. But it’s not just any fuel. With about 92% of the gas produced being delivered to customers as usable energy, this efficiency means fewer greenhouse gas emissions compared to other fossil fuels, according to Okaloosa Gas District.

One of the main benefits of natural gas is that it emits fewer greenhouse gasses and pollutants than other fossil fuels. According to the AGA, natural gas is vital in meeting the nation’s greenhouse gas emissions reduction goals. Since 1990, the AGA reports that emissions from natural gas distribution systems have fallen by a remarkable 69%.

• The AGA’s commitment to reducing emissions includes several initiatives, such as smart innovation, modernized infrastructure, and advanced technologies.

Natural gas also plays a crucial role in reducing air pollution and improving air quality, according to Okaloosa Gas. The increased efficiency of natural gas, coupled with the rise of renewable energy, has led to energy-related carbon dioxide emissions hitting 30-year lows, according to the American Gas Association. 

“By including natural gas and advanced fuels in our infrastructure, we expand our opportunities to slash emissions and enhance energy reliability,” said Okaloosa Gas Vice President Eddie Springle, emphasizing the role of natural gas in achieving the nation’s emissions reduction goals.

In addition to its climate benefits, natural gas plays a significant role in reducing air pollution and improving air quality. “Households with natural gas versus all-electric appliances produce 37% fewer greenhouse gas emissions,” added Okaloosa Gas. Additionally, the AGA notes that natural gas efficiency programs have helped customers offset millions of metric tons of carbon dioxide emissions.

But the advantages of natural gas extend beyond environmental impact. Okaloosa Gas District emphasizes the reliability of natural gas as a utility. “There’s one utility that can help prepare your small business, your home, and your family before a devastating storm strikes — natural gas,” the District stated. 

• This is because natural gas is delivered via an underground pipeline, providing nearly 100% reliable service, even when the power goes out.

As for the future of energy, Okaloosa Gas says that natural gas is more than just a cleaner alternative to other fossil fuels; it could serve as a bridge to even cleaner energy sources. This coincides with AGA’s sentiment about the integration of future fuels like hydrogen and Renewable Natural Gas into gas systems. 

• And with natural gas appliances reportedly achieving up to 97% efficiency, the future of energy looks promising.

And while natural gas is a natural resource, Springle says it is also a tool for environmental responsibility, highlighting the industry’s commitment to innovation and the investment in low- and zero-carbon technologies.

“The natural gas industry will play a vital role in our journey toward a cleaner, more sustainable future,” he said.

NEWS

Water main break in Destin causes large sink hole near Winn Dixie

On Saturday morning, a water main break on 98 Palms Blvd near by Winn Dixie caused a sink hole that resulted in a traffic accident. 

• The main washed away all dirt under the road causing it to collapse in that area, according to Destin Fire Rescue. According to the report, there were no injuries. 

Click here to see more pictures

TRAFFIC

Okaloosa and Walton County Traffic Advisory

Drivers will encounter traffic disruptions on the following state roads in Okaloosa and Walton counties as crews perform construction and maintenance activities.

Okaloosa County:

• Brooks Bridge Replacement Project – Drivers may experience traffic disruptions Sunday, July 23 through Thursday, July 27, between 9 p.m. and 5:30 a.m. for utility relocation work in the following locations:
  • U.S. 98 east and westbound alternating and intermittent lane closures between Perry Avenue and Pier Road. 
  • Santa Rosa Boulevard east and westbound alternating lane closures from east of Amberjack Drive to Ross Marler Park. 
  • Intermittent shoulder closures on Brooks Street, between Perry Avenue and Florida Blanca Place, and on Business Access Road.

• State Road (S.R.) 188 (Racetrack Road) at Delton Boulevard – Drivers may encounter intermittent lane closures between Racetrack Road and Bob Sykes Boulevard will remain closed except to local traffic beginning at 12 a.m. Tuesday, July 25 to complete the installation of drainage systems.  Drivers will also encounter alternating day and nighttime lane closures on Racetrack Rd between Beal Parkway and Eglin Parkway through Wednesday, August 9.  Crews will be working to install drainage improvements and left turn lanes.

• U.S. 98 Bridge Rehabilitation over East Pass Bridge – Drivers may encounter intermittent single-lane closures on U.S. 98 over East Pass (Marler) Bridge, eastbound structure (Fort Walton Beach to Destin), Sunday, July 23 through Thursday, July 27, between 9 p.m. and 5:30 a.m. The existing 35 mph speed limit will be maintained during construction.

• U.S. 98 Improvements from Josie Road to Florida Place Southeast- Drivers may encounter temporary U.S. 98 east and westbound lane closures from Josie Road to Hurlburt Field, Sunday, July 23 through Thursday, July 27, between 8 p.m. and 5:30 a.m. for roadway reconstruction.

• U.S. 90 Routine Utility Maintenance in Crestview – Drivers may encounter intermittent lane closures Monday, July 24 through Thursday, July 27 from 6:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. for utility maintenance.

Walton County:

• U.S. 98 Resurfacing from Village Road to east of U.S. 331 – Drivers may encounter intermittent U.S. 98 east and westbound lane closures, Sunday, July 23 through Thursday, July 27, between 7:30 p.m. and 6 a.m. These closures are required for crews to place thermoplastic striping and complete worklist items.

• U.S. 98 Resurfacing from east of U.S. 331 to Peach Creek – Drivers may experience the following traffic disruptions the week of Sunday, July 23:
  • Nighttime intermittent U.S. 98 east and westbound lane closures, between U.S. 331 and Peach Creek, Sunday, July 23 through Thursday, July 27, from 7 p.m. to 6 a.m. for milling and paving operations.
  • Daytime intermittent turn lane and shoulder closures Monday, July 24 through Thursday, July 27, between 7:30 a.m. and 5:30 p.m., to construct a new right-turn lane to access Blakely Drew Boulevard and widen existing turn lanes between U.S. 331 and Peach Creek.

• U.S. 331 Routine Maintenance Between Clyde B. Wells Bridge and Chat Holley Road – Drivers will encounter intermittent southbound lane closures Monday, July 23 through Thursday, July 27 from 8 p.m. to 5 a.m. for sidewalk repair.

• I-10 Resurfacing from east of U.S.331 to east of County Road 183 Overpass – Drivers will encounter intermittent westbound and eastbound daytime lane closures Monday, July 24 through Thursday, July 27 for paving operations.

NEWS

Cash Moore’s ‘celebration of life’ set for July 26 in Fort Walton Beach

On July 20, 2023, William “Cash” Moore, 85, an iconic businessman in Okaloosa County, passed away peacefully in the hospital with his beloved daughter Cashen Moore and her mother, Sheri Nesmith, by his side.

• He left behind a successful business and a lasting impact on his community. 

Cash began his legendary life on November 29, 1937, in Fairport, New York, born to Carl and Delores Dunn. Later on, he moved to the Emerald Coast, where he was raised by Richard Moore Sr., alongside six siblings: Dickie, Johnny, Jerry, Dee Dee, Sherry, and Margie. 

• After graduating from Crestview High School, he embarked on his college journey, attending various schools in Mississippi before finding his place at Auburn University, where he honed the savvy business skills for which he became known.

During college, Cash worked in a clothing store near the campus, and cleverly sold football players’ tickets to games to earn money. His resourcefulness and ability to build relationships earned him the iconic moniker “Cash” and forever altered the trajectory of his life.

In 1965, Cash Moore achieved another milestone by opening his own bar, the Faux Pas, which swiftly became a popular hotspot on the coast. 

His showman personality and unmatched talent for entertainment helped his business flourish, eventually expanding to include the largest independent liquor chain across Northwest Florida, encompassing 10 stores, 6 sports bars, a gentlemen’s club, and a night club. 

• Despite his numerous successful ventures, it was Cash’s infectious personality that drew people together for nearly six decades.

In 1984, Cash met Sheri when she attempted to enter his club, and their connection deepened as they spent the night playing Pac-Man. Five years later, they welcomed their daughter, Cashen, into the world. 

Amidst all his achievements and accolades, Cash always maintained that Cashen was the greatest blessing in his life. The two shared a special bond and became best friends, spending the majority of their time together.

“My dad was not only an amazing father to me, but also my best friend,” said Cashen Moore. “I don’t know what I am going to do without him by my side, but I know he will always be with me.”

Cash cherished spending quality time with his daughter, from shopping trips, to watching her gymnastics competitions, and skiing together in Aspen. However, his greatest joy came from being the best “Pop Pop” to his three grandchildren, Kaleesi, Cash, and Million.

To Cashen, her father was a hero who imparted invaluable business knowledge and equipped her to take over the family empire, continuing his legacy.

• “I truly am the luckiest girl in the world to be able to call him my dad,” said Cashen. “I don’t know how I could ever thank him for this life he has given to me and my children and I will do my very best to follow in his footsteps and continue his legacy.”

Cash will always be remembered as a determined and resilient individual, but those fortunate enough to know him experienced the immense kindness of his heart and his wonderful sense of humor.

• He was deeply involved in his community, whether it be through generous donations, like gifting a gym full of equipment to Freeport High School, or by purchasing championship rings for multiple schools.

“I want to say thank you to everyone that has reached out to me,” added Cashen. “My dad always knew he was popular, but I know he is even amazed at how much love people have shown since his passing. I am especially grateful to my mom for being there and helping me get through this process.”

A Celebration of Life is scheduled for Wednesday, July 26 from 5-8pm at Emerald Coast Funeral Home in Fort Walton Beach, with the funeral following on Thursday.

Click here to see pictures of Cash over the years.