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Fort Walton Beach, Florida Community News and Information

By Barbara Palmgren There are several junior golf organizations that provide fun and competitive golf experiences for junior golfers. This month I’m highlighting the Under Armour Junior Golf Tour, under the directorship of Chris Henson. Chris has been at the helm of the local district for three years. Chris moved here...
By Carolyn Newcomer Ketchel, Okaloosa County Commissioner, District 2 Many citizens have written to express their concerns and frustrations about the many vehicle accidents at the intersection of Racetrack Road and Skipper Avenue. I share your concerns and have worked with the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) to find safer...
By Sandy North As the old saying goes, “The only constant in life is change.” For over 50 years, Rocky Bayou Country Club (RBCC) has embraced this philosophy as it’s grown into the social and recreational hub for thousands of residents who call Niceville “home.” RBCC is the area’s only member-owned club and...
Pickles, the famous cat that greeted customers outside a Publix grocery store in Fort Walton Beach, is living the good life inside now. But her fans can still see her regularly in a Pickles 2024 calendar. Photos taken by her caretaker, Mike Sullivan, and admirers are featured in the calendar,...
By Kelly Murphy-Redd Tragic circumstances caused Calvary Chapel Fort Walton Beach to close when the pastor left, the congregation dwindled, Anchor Church was formed, and then it seemed Covid would be its final demise. There were only 30 adults left from over 1000. It was impossible to keep going. Calvary Chapel...
By Mike Mahon The 9th annual Emerald Coast Classic college basketball tournament is right around the corner — bigger and better than ever. Eight teams will compete in the tournament, which will be held at Raider Arena on the campus of Northwest Florida State College Nov. 24-25. Alabama will face Ohio...
By Doug Stauffer The aging Northwest Florida Fairgrounds in Fort Walton Beach is set for a significant transformation. In October, Okaloosa Commissioner Trey Goodwin, Tourism Director Jennifer Adams and Fair Association Manager Brian Sparling provided a glimpse into the plans for rejuvenating the iconic 20-acre venue. Instead of demolition, the vision...
By Doug Stauffer As the spotlight focuses on newly crowned Khameela Layco-Mitchell and Kyleigh Rae Folta, World Class Pageantry (WCP) illuminates a larger vision. Beyond glamorous crowns and glittering gowns, this organization seeks to foster personal growth, community service and a commitment to higher causes. Established in 2019 by Fort Walton...

Thankful

By Lori Leath Smith, FWB Life Publisher One of my very best friends sent me the following wise words that has changed my thinking: Replacing “I’m Sorry” with “Thank You” I’m sorry I’m late. — Thank you for waiting on me. I’m sorry I’ve been so needy lately. — Thank you for being...
Welcome the Holidays Through Times Past By Margaret Zonia Morrison Our neighboring county, Walton, will celebrate its bicentennial in 2024. Commemorations like this call to mind history and tradition. Both the stately Wesley House, located at Eden Gardens State Park in Walton County, and the Christmas celebration that has become a welcome herald...