POLITICS

Recount scheduled for Okaloosa County Commission District 3 race

The Okaloosa County Supervisor of Elections has issued a public notice for a recount in the hotly contested Board of County Commissioners District 3 Republican primary race.

• Paul Lux, Supervisor of Elections for Okaloosa County, announced that the county’s Canvassing Board will meet at 9:00 a.m. on Saturday, August 24, 2024, to conduct a machine recount. The recount will take place at the Okaloosa County Supervisor of Elections Office in Crestview.

The notice comes after preliminary results showed a razor-thin margin between the top two candidates in the District 3 race. Sherri Cox led with 7,597 votes, while Keri Pitzer trailed by just 13 votes with 7,584. This difference falls well within Florida’s 0.5% threshold for a mandatory recount.

According to the notice, if a manual recount becomes necessary, it will begin immediately following the machine recount. The Canvassing Board is prepared to continue the recount on Sunday, August 25, 2024, if required.

EDUCATION

Inside Niceville High School’s NaGISA Project: Where students become international marine researchers

Join us all month long as we celebrate Education Month, sponsored by Youth Village Inc. 

In a classroom at Niceville High School, students are preparing for their next international research trip.

• But these aren’t just any students – they’re part of a unique gifted program that has garnered worldwide attention and is changing the landscape of high school science education.

Led by Richard Hernandez, a 72-year-old former Air Force captain turned educator, the program is the only high school in the world participating in the Natural Geography In-Shore Areas (NaGISA) project. 

• NaGISA, which means “where the shore meets the sea” in Japanese, is a global marine biodiversity study that’s providing these students with unparalleled research opportunities.

“I see my students as a national resource,” Hernandez said with pride. “They’re as valuable as gold or uranium and they need to be cultivated as such. These are the people that are going to be running the show later on.”

Hernandez, now in his 30th year of teaching, stumbled into the program through what he calls “dumb luck.” In 2001, he traveled to Japan on a Fulbright Memorial Fund grant. There, he met Dr. Yoshihiro Shirayama of Kobe University, who was launching the NaGISA project as part of the broader Census of Marine Life initiative.

• “He asked me if I would like to be involved with this,” Hernandez recalled. “I said, let’s see, working with Kobe University, which is essentially their MIT? Yeah, we’ll do that.”

Since then, Niceville High School has been the only high school worldwide consistently participating in NaGISA. The project involves students collecting and analyzing marine samples from various depths off the coast of Henderson Beach. They meticulously document everything from microscopic organisms to larger marine life, contributing to a global database of marine biodiversity.

As part of NaGISA, students are involved in several other cutting-edge projects. The Autonomous Reef Monitoring Structures (ARMS) Project allows students to study larger marine organisms using artificial reefs placed offshore.

They also conduct DNA Barcoding to precisely identify collected organisms, analyze microplastics in water samples, and monitor water quality in collaboration with the Choctawhatchee Basin Alliance. The program also collaborates with Dr. Gustav Paulay from the University of Florida, who introduced the ARMS Project to Niceville High.

But the program’s reach extends far beyond the shores of Florida. Students have presented their findings at international conferences, standing shoulder to shoulder with Ph.D. candidates and established researchers. They’ve traveled to Tanzania, Crete, Egypt, Turkey, Costa Rica, Portugal, Spain, and England, conducting research and sharing their findings with the global scientific community.

• The program’s global recognition reached a pinnacle when Niceville High was invited to present at the Census of Marine Life final report in London at the Royal Academy. “We were the only high school that actually was invited to present at the census of Marine Life final report in London at the Royal Academy,” Hernandez noted proudly.

The program’s success, however, comes with challenges. 

• Funding for international research trips often relies on community support. Currently, Hernandez and his students are trying to raise funds for an upcoming trip to Japan for the Second World Congress of Marine Stations.

Click here to continue reading more on this program and how you can help financially support their upcoming trip.

PARKS+REC

Topsail Hill, Grayton Beach state parks face proposed development plans in Walton County

The Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) has unveiled extensive amendment proposals for the unit management plans of Topsail Hill Preserve State Park and Grayton Beach State Park, potentially transforming these natural areas with new accommodations and recreational facilities.

• A public meeting to discuss these changes is scheduled for Tuesday, Aug. 27, 2024, from 3 to 4 p.m. CT at the WaterColor Lakehouse in Santa Rosa Beach.

For Grayton Beach State Park, the proposed amendments include:

• Adding up to 10 cabins within the existing cabin area in the West Tract, south of County Road 30A
• Constructing a new beach access restroom near the existing beach access parking area
• Developing up to four pickleball courts north of the campground entrance road in the East Tract
• Creating a disc golf course along either side of the park entrance road
• Expanding parking areas for the eastern beach access

At Topsail Hill Preserve State Park, the plans include:

• Developing a park lodge with up to 350-room capacity. Two alternative concepts are proposed:
  1. Constructing the lodge southwest of the camping area
  2. Redesigning the existing campground, original cabin/bungalow area, and support area to accommodate the lodge
• Adding up to four pickleball courts southeast of the entrance station
• Creating a disc golf course in an area south of the park cabins

The DEP states these changes aim to enhance public access, recreation, and lodging at state parks as part of Florida’s Great Outdoors Initiative. The department emphasizes that all improvements will employ best practices to ensure facilities are harmonious with park-specific resources and compatible with native lands and plants.

However, the Florida Wildlife Federation has raised concerns about the proposals. According to the Federation, these changes could “forever alter the natural landscape and passive recreational enjoyment of our treasured public lands.”

• They argue the proposals conflict with state law guiding the Division of Recreation and Parks, specifically Florida statute 258.037, which promotes “such character as to emblemize the state’s natural values” and aims to “enjoy these values without depleting them.”

The DEP maintains that sensitivity to each park’s classification and avoidance of critical habitats will be prioritized in the design and implementation of these facilities.

Public participation in the upcoming meeting is encouraged, with accommodations available for those requiring special assistance. Those seeking more information can contact the Office of Park Planning at 850-245-3051 or email WaltonCountySPpublicmeeting@floridadep.gov.

Click here to view map renderings

THINGS TO DO

Labor Day Weekend Fireworks at The Boardwalk on Okaloosa Island

The Boardwalk on Okaloosa Island invites locals and visitors to celebrate Labor Day Weekend with an unforgettable evening of live music, beachfront fun, and a spectacular fireworks show on Sunday, September 1, 2024.

• The festivities start at 6:00 PM with live music from the high-energy band Rockstarfish, performing at Al’s Beach Club.

At 9:00 PM, the evening will culminate in a fireworks display over the Gulf of Mexico, lighting up the sky in a grand finale of the summer season.

The Boardwalk is the perfect destination for an exciting and memorable Labor Day celebration with various dining options, entertainment, and beach activities.

GIVING BACK

Emerald Coast Realtor, Chrissy Hartley, named Florida Realtors Humanitarian of the Year

Chrissy Hartley, a Realtor in Fort Walton Beach, was honored as the Humanitarian of the Year at the Florida Realtors 2024 Convention & Trade Expo on Thursday.

• Hartley, a member of the Emerald Coast Association of Realtors (ECAR), was recognized for her extensive community service and dedication to helping others in Okaloosa County.

Born and raised in Fort Walton Beach, Hartley has been a Realtor and residential property manager with Dream Team Realty since 2008. Her passion for volunteer work began in her early teens, leading to a lifelong commitment to community service.

“I live life daily with the motto ‘Love God, Love People,’” Hartley said.

Hartley’s humanitarian efforts include chairing the Building Homes for Heroes Taskforce in 2023 and 2024. Under her leadership, the committee raised $27,621 for the organization in 2023, which was matched by a private donor, bringing the total to nearly $60,000. This marked the highest amount raised since the event’s inception in 2014.

One of the beneficiaries of these efforts was retired Air Force Staff Sgt. Justin Day, a Bronze Star recipient who lost his leg in an IED blast in Afghanistan. The funds raised have contributed to providing Day with a mortgage-free home.

• “It’s truly an honor to serve the men and women who have courageously served and sacrificed for our country,” Hartley said. “Through my volunteer work at the Association and with Building Homes for Heroes, I’m able to help wounded veterans, as well as share my real estate contacts and professional connections to make something really unbelievable and amazing happen for someone who really needs it.”

In addition to her work with Building Homes for Heroes, Hartley serves as the PTO president at Cinco Christian School and is active in various church committees, including Stewardship, School, and Pastor Search. She is also a member of Okaloosa 100 Woman’s Charity and dedicates time to organizations like Food for Thought on a weekly basis.

Hartley’s commitment to community service extends beyond monetary donations. She believes in the importance of hands-on volunteer work, dedicating approximately 10 hours per week to various causes.

“Her heart and soul are in every aspect of the event,” said a representative from ECAR, referring to the annual Bowling for a Cause event benefiting Building Homes for Heroes. “She is not just leading meetings, she’s making calls, securing sponsors, running the errands, receiving payments, managing spreadsheets, creating documents, making auction and gift baskets and fine tuning every little detail.”

Hartley balances her community involvement with her career in real estate and her role as a wife and mother of three young boys. She manages to dedicate a minimum of 40 hours per week to her real estate profession while still finding time for her extensive volunteer work.

• “To be successful, you have to have your heart in your business, and your business in your heart,” Hartley said, quoting Thomas Watson.

Hartley’s previous accolades include the Fort Walton Beach Realtor of the Year in 2021, Property Manager of the Year in 2022, and recognition as one of United Way Emerald Coast’s 40 Under 40 in 2022. She is also a graduate of ECAR’s Leadership Academy and continues her education each year by completing a variety of real estate-related classes.

The Humanitarian of the Year Award honors Florida Realtors members who demonstrate exceptional dedication to improving their communities through volunteer work.

BUSINESS

Rick’s on the Island to close after Labor Day

Popular local eatery Rick’s on the Island announced Thursday it will close its doors on Okaloosa Island after Labor Day due to a non-renewed lease.

• The restaurant, known for its pizzas and seafood, is offering specials until its final day of operation on Sept. 2. These include $12 large two-topping pizzas for dine-in or carry-out, $3 drafts, and $3 cans.

In a social media post, the establishment expressed gratitude to its patrons: “After countless memories, endless pizzas, seafood delights, and your unwavering support, it’s time for Rick’s on the Island to bid a heartfelt farewell.”

While Rick’s on the Island is closing, the owners announced that some staff members will transition to their sister restaurant, Rick’s Crab Trap FWB on Eglin Parkway.

• Rick’s Crab Trap plans to incorporate elements of Rick’s on the Island, including island music, weekly entertainment, and extended operating hours to seven days a week.

The restaurant encouraged locals and regular customers to visit during its final days, stating, “Come raise a glass, share a story, and help us make these last days unforgettable.”

A MESSAGE FROM DIANA HEALTH

Diana Health brings individualized, comprehensive women’s healthcare to Okaloosa and surrounding areas

The Fort Walton Beach, Destin, Niceville, and surrounding areas have a new option for elevated women’s healthcare with Diana Health. Diana Health offers women’s healthcare focused on the whole woman – addressing physical, mental, and social healthcare needs.

Led by medical director Dr. Michael Hennessey and a provider team of physicians, certified nurse midwives, and physician assistants, Diana Health’s services include end-to-end maternity care, Labor & Delivery services, preconception and family planning, along with comprehensive, full-scope Gynecological care.

Diana Health is located adjacent to HCA Florida Fort Walton-Destin Hospital and has collaborated with them to provide 24/7 midwifery care to the labor and delivery floor. The Diana Health care program is designed to empower women to make the best health choices for themselves and their families, providing information, tools, and support every step of the way.

• And, when you visit in person, you’ll be welcomed with a calm and comfortable practice space to make you feel at home.

Diana Health is in-network with most major insurance plans, including Medicaid and TriCare. New patients are welcome and can book an appointment – even prior to 10 weeks of pregnancy if desired – within one week in most cases.

Call to schedule an appointment at (850) 243-2229 or learn more and book online here

PARKS+REC

Okaloosa County seeks public input on new 100-acre Patriots Park in Crestview

Okaloosa County Board Chairman Paul Mixon will host a town hall meeting to gather public input on a proposed new county park known as Patriots Park.

• The meeting is scheduled for Sept. 3, 2024, from 6:30 to 8 p.m. in the sanctuary of Live Oak Baptist Church, located at 4565 Live Oak Church Road in Crestview.

The proposed park encompasses more than 100 acres of woods and wetlands along the Shoal River, containing native plant species and wildlife habitats.

“This land gives us the opportunity to create a unique environmental space in north Okaloosa County that will benefit the residents living in the vicinity as well as the wider public and visitors,” Mixon said. “We want to allow residents in the surrounding community a chance to offer their suggestions and guidance so that we can maximize the potential of this property for future recreational enjoyment.”

The county is encouraging local residents and the general public to attend the meeting and provide input on the development of Patriots Park.

The town hall aims to gather ideas and preferences from the community to help shape the future of this new recreational space in Okaloosa County.