Emerald Coast Florida

Small-Town Generosity Creates A Big Impact for Shalimar Students Staff Reports February 17, 2026 9:52 am Okaloosa County, Schools and Education, Shalimar In Brief: Who: Shalimar Library & Thrift Shop, Mayor Mark Franks, Principal Amy Klugh, Superintendent Marcus Chambers What: $3,000 donation to support school library and student supplies When: Thursday, February 12 Where: Shalimar Elementary School campus Why: To invest in student learning resources and support children in need A long-standing community institution is once again investing in Shalimar’s youngest learners. Shalimar Library & Thrift Shop presented a $3,000 donation to Shalimar Elementary School during a check presentation held on Thursday, February 12, on the school’s campus. Attending the presentation were members of the Shalimar Library Board of Directors, Mark Franks, Principal Amy Klugh, and school administrators. Of the total donation, $2,000 will go directly toward supporting the school’s library, while the remaining $1,000 will be used at the principal’s discretion to assist students with classroom supplies. “Our town library has always been more than just a building with books. It’s a place of curiosity, learning, and opportunity,” said Franks. “This generous contribution to Shalimar Elementary is an investment not just in programs or materials, but in the future of our children.” Klugh said the funds will help meet practical needs while also strengthening the school’s academic resources. “Thanks to our Shalimar community and leadership, your generous support of your library fuels learning for kids,” Klugh said. “With these funds, we will be able to support purchasing student supplies...

 [[{“value”:” Finding your perfect spot along South Walton’s 26 miles of shoreline is a breeze, especially with our regional beach accesses designed to make your day easy and enjoyable. These spots come fully equipped with parking, restrooms, seasonal lifeguards, and those all-important flags to let you know the beach conditions at a glance. If you’re looking for specific accessibility features, South Walton has worked hard to make the sand welcoming for everyone. ADA Accessible Regional Beach Accesses “}]]  SoWal.com 

  For scuba divers in search of unique underwater adventures, Panama City Beach is the place to be. Beneath its emerald-green waters lies a treasure trove of both natural and man-made dive sites spread across the northern gulf. Whether you are a beginner looking for a shallow reef teeming with life or  

LEON COUNTY, Fla. (WMBB) – Last summer, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission issued a special permit to Dynasty Marine Associates Inc. to catch a giant manta ray for Sea World Abu Dhabi for exhibition. The video shows the crew pulling the animal up onto the boat from a net, igniting public backlash. Manta

Beach and Heat Headlines Hazardous beach conditions continue today, with a high risk of rip currents at all Gulf beaches. If you are heading to the coast, use extreme caution and follow local beach safety guidance. Temperatures will also run well above normal through at least Saturday. There is a 50 to 80 percent chance