‘Captain Hook’ released in Gulf
A juvenile loggerhead sea turtle returned to the Gulf of Mexico July 9 after several months of rehabilitation at the Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park in Fort Walton Beach. The turtle, named Captain Hook by Gulfarium staff members, was released 60 miles from Pensacola by a team of researchers from the University of Florida.
Hurlburt teacher inspires children for nearly 30 years
It can be difficult for Airmen to focus on the mission when they worry about their children. However, one very special preschool teacher can give parents peace of mind.
Security Forces honor fallen defenders
Two Security Forces Air Commandos raised money and spent time putting together a fallen defender memorial wall at the 1st Special Operations Security Forces Squadron at Hurlburt Field.
Hagel: ‘The future of Eglin is bright’
Secretary of Defense Chuck Hagel met with pilots at Eglin Air Force Base before speaking to troops inside a hangar there July 10. Hagel said he was confident in the F-35 aircraft, which is currently grounded and under investigation after one of the aircraft caught fire on the runway June 23.
New fitness trends keep Navarre moving
Navarre’s beaches, long summer season, numerous outdoor activities and military population contribute to the community’s overall fitness.
Nelson wants safety caps on liquid nicotine for e-cigarettes
An increase in the number of liquid-nicotine-related child poisonings has prompted a Senate committee to file legislation to child-proof the product that is used in vapor devices including e-cigarettes.
Status hearing set for Aydelott
A hearing will be held July 21 for the Gulf Breeze teen arrested for the Christmas Eve stabbing death of his mother, Sharon Aydelott, a Holley-Navarre Middle School teacher.
County seeks grants for military initiatives
Santa Rosa County Commissioners approved pursuing more defense grant funding at their July 10 board meeting. County staff is preparing a $200,000 request to acquire more land around NAS Whiting Field. Additionally, a separate $73,630 request to fund the county military affairs consultant and provide for military-related economic and community activities is also being sought.
Local fisherman causes problems at pier
Brad Helwick, a manager for the Navarre Beach Fishing Pier operators, complained to the Santa Rosa County Sheriff’s Office July 7 after a local fisherman was reportedly using profanity and pushing other patrons on the pier.
Shark bites tourist in Okaloosa County
A 39-year-old man from Pleasant View, Tennessee, was taken to the hospital July 14 after suffering a shark bite to his left ankle while swimming in the Gulf of Mexico off Okaloosa Island.











