THINGS TO DO

Movies on the Beach: Watch ‘HOP’ at The Boardwalk on Okaloosa Island

Get ready to hop into the holiday spirit with this hand-picked special movie!

On Tuesday, April 4, 2023, The Boardwalk on Okaloosa Island is bringing you a fun feature presentation that will make you jump with excitement. As we eagerly await the arrival of the Easter Bunny, The Boardwalk selected a movie that perfectly captures the fun and spirit of the season.

• So, grab your friends and family, set up your beach chairs, and get ready to hop along with the characters on screen! It’s going to be an unforgettable night filled with laughter, joy, and lots of hopping – you won’t want to miss it!

Showing Tuesday, April 4th at 7:30pm: “Hop”  

A slacker named Fred (James Marsden) adopts a rabbit (voiced by Russell Brand) that jumps in front of his car, and it turns out this particular creature is next in line to become the Easter Bunny and doesn’t want the job. In time, the animal inspires Fred to take charge of his life and save Easter for everyone.

THINGS TO DO

6th Ranger Training Battalion hosts exciting Open House

The 6th Ranger Training Battalion is hosting an Open House on Saturday, May 20, 2023, from 10:30 am to 3:00 pm at Camp James E. Rudder on Eglin Air Force Base.

• This unique event offers a glimpse into the exciting world of the U.S. Army Rangers and promises a day full of adventure, entertainment, and education for the entire family.

Throughout the day, there will be a variety of exciting demonstrations, including an MC-6 Jump, Parachute Display, UH-60 Display, and Combative Demo, showcasing the Rangers’ unique skills and training. Attendees will also have the opportunity to test their own abilities by participating in skill tests such as Tomahawk throwing, Grenade Toss, and the ever-popular Race the Ranger challenge.

The “Race the Ranger Run” will take participants on a journey through the backwoods of the Gulf Coast. The scenic point-to-point course begins at Camp James E. Rudder and takes runners down the famed “Rudder Mile,” a trail that has been utilized by Ranger Instructors for decades.

• The race will wind its way past training areas where Ranger students have patrolled in pursuit of the coveted Ranger Tab, past the notorious Prisoner’s Pond, and ultimately finish back at the camp next to the old Ranger Water Tower. To register for the Race the Ranger Run, click here.

For those interested in learning more about the life of a Ranger, the Open House will feature informative displays and interactive exhibits. These include Medics, Boathouse, Dive, and “A Day in the Life of a Ranger” presentations. The Weapons Display and Demo, RIA/FRIES (HHC), and the Fire Station Display are bound to captivate visitors of all ages.

In addition to the military demonstrations and skill tests, the event will also host a Car Show, with a stunning array of vehicles on display. To register your vehicle for the Swamp Ranger Car Show, click here.

The Open House will cater to families with a variety of entertainment options, such as food vendors, face painting, music, speakers, and a Reptile Show to keep everyone engaged and entertained.

The 6th Ranger Training Battalion’s Open House is a rare opportunity for the public to witness and experience firsthand the world of the U.S. Army Rangers. With a perfect blend of thrilling events, educational displays, and family-friendly activities, this event is sure to be an unforgettable day for all who attend.

• Don’t miss your chance to be a part of this event on Saturday, May 20, 2023, at Camp James E. Rudder on Eglin Air Force Base.

BUSINESS

Cumulus Media rebrands WYZB-FM as Y1055: ‘The Best Country’ in Fort Walton Beach-Destin

Cumulus Media has announced the rebranding of its Heritage Country radio station WYZB-FM in Fort Walton Beach/Destin, Florida.

• The station, previously known as NASH FM 105.5, is now Y1055 – The Best Country. According to Cumulus, the rebrand includes the launch of a new website at y1055country.com.

The rebrand celebrates a complete overhaul of the radio station, which now boasts a new transmitter and antenna, a new studio, and state-of-the-art processing. The result is a powerful, crisp, and clean signal that showcases a perfect music mix of familiar artists and their biggest hits, along with the best in new Country music.

• Fans can expect to hear favorites from artists such as Morgan Wallen, Carrie Underwood, Luke Bryan, Miranda Lambert, Luke Combs, Lainey Wilson, Chris Stapleton, and more, according to the station.

Y1055 has also introduced a new weekday lineup featuring the popular morning show “Kincaid & Dallas,” now airing one hour earlier from 5:00 am to 9:00 am. This is followed by an hour of commercial-free Country music from 9:00 am to 10:00 am, kicked off by local on-air personality and Y1055 Program Director, Hayden Green, who takes the mic from 9:00 am to 2:00 pm.

• Taryn will host the afternoon segment from 2:00 pm to 7:00 pm. From 7:00 pm to midnight, “Nights With Elaina” will feature interviews with Country’s biggest stars, hosted by Gracie Award-winner and CMA and ACM nominee Elaina Smith.

Ashley Allegretto, Vice President/Market Manager at Cumulus Fort Walton Beach/Destin, expressed her excitement about the new direction of the station:

• “We are committed to delivering a fresh and exciting listening experience that reflects the tastes and lifestyle of our Emerald Coast community,” she said. “As Program Director, Hayden Green has the vision and talent to take Y1055 to the next level, and we are eager to share that with our passionate and engaged listeners.”

Chris Kellogg, Operations Manager at Cumulus Fort Walton Beach/Destin, acknowledged the teamwork involved in the rebrand saying “it takes a real team to pull all the levers to create radio magic – from a genius engineering crew to the right Program Director and perfect air talent.”

• This day would not have been possible without Ashley’s belief in the vision of Y1055,” he said.

Hayden Green, Program Director at Y1055, commented on the local focus of the station: “Y1055 is a local station with local people who live and love the Emerald Coast lifestyle. We have taken the very best of everything this station has to offer and given it new life. We’re excited to begin a new chapter, and we’ll keep the promise… Y1055 – The BEST Country!”

For more information or to stream Y1055, The Best Country, visit the station’s new website at y1055country.com.

TRAFFIC

New traffic pattern in Niceville

On Thursday, March 30th, drivers in the Niceville area encountered a new traffic pattern in the Eastbound lanes of John Sims Parkway near Palm Blvd.

• According to the Niceville Police Department, the far left-hand eastbound lane is now a left turn only lane beginning just after Niceville High School and ending at Palm Blvd.

The Niceville PD reports that FDOT is in the process of placing signs in the area to alert drivers to the change. Please use caution if traveling through the area today.

SPORTS

Northwest Florida State College’s Lady Raiders win 2023 NJCAA Women’s Basketball National Championship

Northwest Florida State College’s women’s basketball team has won the 2023 NJCAA Women’s Basketball National Championship after a gutsy 66-63 victory over Trinity Valley Community College on Monday night at the Rip Griffin Center.

• It is the team’s second national title in program history and marks their thirteenth national tournament appearance. The Raiders won their first national tournament championship title in 2021.

The Raiders were down by 10 points in the first quarter, but they mounted a furious comeback, thanks to their stifling defense and stellar execution on offense. Sophomore Sakima Walker led the team with 23 points, while Destiney McPhaul, Zayla Tinner, and Celia Riviere were close behind. The Raiders’ rebounds (42) and assists (14) also aided in their win over the Lady Cardinals.

Sakima Walker was named the Most Valuable Player of the 2023 NJCAA DI Women’s Basketball Championship after recording 80 points and 42 rebounds throughout the national tournament.

After the game, President Devin Stephenson congratulated the Lady Raiders and Coach Bart Walker, saying, “I couldn’t be prouder of the Lady Raiders and coach Bart Walker. It is an outstanding achievement and a testament to our commitment to excellence at Northwest Florida State College. The best truly is our standard.”

The victory has brought immense pride to the college, and it is a significant achievement for the Lady Raiders. The team has once again shown their prowess in the sport and demonstrated their commitment to excellence.

A MESSAGE FROM RESTYLERS

“Truck Yeah!”: Free truck show supports kidney transplant for local child

The much-anticipated “Truck Yeah!” truck show is set to make a grand return to The Block on Eglin Parkway in Fort Walton Beach this Saturday, April 1, 2023, from 10 am to 2 pm.

• The family-friendly event invites truck, jeep, and classic car enthusiasts to come together for a day of fun, competition, and camaraderie, all while supporting a worthy cause.

The “Truck Yeah!” event, which is free to attend, offers an exciting opportunity for vehicle owners to showcase their trucks, jeeps, and classic cars. Participants can register their vehicles now to join in on the fun and friendly competition. All entries will be assigned a category and number, with winners chosen through a public voting process. Each attendee will receive a voting slip, allowing them to select their favorite vehicle in each category.

In addition to the truck competition, the event will feature a tailgate party, providing the perfect backdrop for a day of family fun and entertainment. The organizers have created an environment that caters to all ages, ensuring everyone can enjoy the festivities.

More importantly, the “Truck Yeah!” show is dedicated to a noble cause. The event organizers have announced that 100% of the proceeds will go to the Children’s Organ Transplant Association (COTA) in honor of Conrad Williams, affectionately known as The Rad Kidney Kid.

• Conrad was born on December 15, 2021, with Stage 5 Kidney failure, and has been a fighter ever since. His family is currently working with COTA to help secure a kidney transplant for him.

The “Truck Yeah!” show presents an opportunity for the community to rally together in support of a local family in need, while simultaneously enjoying a day of fun and friendly competition. Mark your calendars and bring your family and friends to The Block on Eglin Parkway in Fort Walton Beach this Saturday, April 1, 2023.

THINGS TO DO

2023 Art Walk series returns to Downtown Fort Walton Beach this Saturday

Art Walk is proudly sponsored by Artesano Boutique in Downtown Fort Walton Beach. Artesano is an artisan shop featuring beautiful handmade work from along the Gulf Coast since 2010.

Downtown Fort Walton Beach is once again set to showcase the city’s vibrant art scene with its highly anticipated 2023 Art Walk series. The event will take place on six separate dates throughout the year, offering residents and visitors a unique opportunity to explore the work of talented local artists while enjoying a fun-filled evening of shopping, dining, and entertainment.

The Art Walk is scheduled from 5pm to 8pm on the following dates:

• April 1, 2023
• May 6, 2023
• June 3, 2023
• September 2, 2023
• October 7, 2023
• November 4, 2023

Attendees can expect an immersive experience as they shop, sip, and stroll along the beautiful storefronts of Downtown Fort Walton Beach’s Arts & Entertainment District. In addition to the captivating artwork, event-goers can plan on dinner and drinks at one of the area’s many inviting dining establishments.

This year, the Art Walk is introducing an exciting change to the event layout. Artists will now be lined up on both sides of Highway 98, allowing for even more exposure and accessibility to their creations. This will also help avoid the construction taking place downtown.

Although the display will not span the entire length of downtown, it will stretch from around Cowhead and spread eastward until Ferry Road. Artists will also be stationed across the street in front of the Fort Walton Beach Library, ensuring that visitors can access all the incredible talent the city has to offer.

• A conveniently located crosswalk at this location will facilitate easy and safe access for attendees..

The 2023 Art Walk in downtown Fort Walton Beach promises an unforgettable series of events that will bring the community together to celebrate local talent and culture. With its inviting atmosphere and diverse range of art, dining, and entertainment options, this year’s Art Walk is a must-attend affair for art enthusiasts, shoppers, and foodies alike.

Mark your calendars and come join in the festivities as Downtown Fort Walton Beach comes alive with color, creativity, and excitement.

Further information about specific artists and event details can be found on the Art Walk Facebook page. Local artists interested in participating in the event are encouraged to apply here.