Formerly known to locals as “the Rec,” the old Gulf Breeze Recreation Center is now a thing of the past after an extensive expansion and remodeling of the building. The newly named Gulf Breeze Community Center was unveiled at a ribbon-cutting Tuesday evening after years of construction.
“We lost everything in Hurricane Ivan,” said Santa Rosa County Judge Robert Hilliard, whose family suffered the total loss of their home during the catastrophe. Hilliard was serving as a Santa Rosa County Commissioner in 2004 when the devastating storm surge flooded ashore, knocking down utility poles, leaving citizens in the dark and without the ability to send or receive emergency communication.
The Navarre Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) Amateur Radio Club could be seen making waves out on Navarre Beach last weekend. However, it wasn’t the gentle waves of the Gulf of Mexico rolling ashore that drew them to the Black Skimmer Pavilion. These radio gurus were making waves of a different kind — radio waves.
Local author Michael Byars Lewis has been recognized at the Next Generation Indie Book Awards for his first novel, “Surly Bonds.” Lewis, who is also a professional pilot, traveled to New York City May 29 to accept his award as a finalist in the first novel category.
Gulf Breeze Hospital said goodbye to its administrator of eight years with warm wishes and fond memories at a retirement reception on June 13. Robert “Bob” Harriman was honored by colleagues and family for his tenacity and leadership of Gulf Breeze Hospital and the Andrews Institute of Orthopedic and Sports Medicine.
Cell phones and email may be the most convenient communication systems we use today, but amateur radio continues to be the most reliable form of communication during times of crisis. Get a chance to see local amateur radio operators showcase their skills this weekend at the Navarre Beach Park.
Jim Crowder wasn’t afraid of taking chances. That, and his degree in electrical engineering — with the support of a patient wife — was his doorway to success.
Criminals beware! Santa Rosa Sheriff’s Office has the best two-man canine team in the state. Members of the Santa Rosa County Sheriff’s Office K-9 Unit recently competed at the United States Police Canine Association (USPCA) Region I Field Trials in south Florida, bringing home several trophies – including one first place finish, and qualifying for nationals.
