The 2025 hurricane season began quietly June 1 – and we hope the rest of the season is just as quiet. Those of us who have lived here long enough know that is not a likely situation. There will be threats of storms and we will just hope for the best outcome. But there are certain things you can do to give yourself a head start.

Below is a portion of a piece written by Matti Friedman, an American journalist and Jerusalem-based columnist for The Free Press. He talks about news stories being replaced with a sort of activism by so-called journalists. And how the mainstream media was trying to lead people to conclusions – instead of truth. You can read it in its entirety at thefp.com. We at Crestview News Bulletin believe our readers are smart enough to hear the truth and decide for themselves how it impacts them.

Military leaders in the Florida Panhandle are facing logistical challenges that directly impact their ability to maintain operational readiness. During the Military Bases Update hosted by the Santa Rosa County Economic Development Office last week, Air Force and Navy leadership shared insights into their missions and discussed areas where community partnerships could support their personnel and infrastructure.

Graduates, take a deep breath and soak in this moment. You’ve reached the culmination of years of effort, determination, and resilience. Today, as you stand on the cusp of your future, you are not just closing one chapter—you are stepping into a world filled with boundless possibilities, a world waiting for your imprint.

In every thriving community, trust in local government is essential. The decisions made by city councils, county boards, and municipal offices impact everything from education and infrastructure to public safety and economic development. Yet, without transparency, residents are left in the dark about how their tax dollars are spent and how policies that shape their daily lives are created.

In many parts of Florida, black bears are a natural part of the environment. Whether you’re in the central, northeast or northwest parts of the state, learning how to coexist with these powerful yet often misunderstood creatures is essential. Living alongside black bears requires respect, preparation, and awareness, but with the right precautions, they can be fascinating and even beneficial neighbors.

In 1999, congress declared May would be National Military Appreciation Month so the citizens of our country could publicly thank everyone who puts on the uniform of their branch of service.

We commend the City of Crestview for adopting a long-term growth strategy that promotes transparency and provides a clear roadmap for sustainable development. While many counties, including Okaloosa, often discuss smart growth, the absence of a comprehensive plan leaves citizens uncertain about their leaders’ vision. Crestview sets itself apart by demonstrating exactly how smart growth can be done effectively.

Emergency communication systems are critical for public safety, enabling swift coordination among first responders during crises. Over the years, technological advancements have made these systems more efficient, reliable, and secure. One such innovation is the P25 (Project 25) communication system—a suite of standards designed to ensure interoperability among various public safety agencies while prioritizing encrypted communication for enhanced security. While encryption undoubtedly bolsters the confidentiality of sensitive operations, it also raises significant concerns for journalists and advocates of government transparency.