PUBLIC SAFETY

Woman loses lower arm, two teens wounded in Walton County shark attacks

In a joint press conference on Friday afternoon, South Walton Fire Control District Chief Ryan Crawford and Walton County Sheriff Michael Adkinson provided details about two separate shark attacks that occurred in Walton County, Florida, earlier today.

• The incidents, which took place within four miles from each other, have left multiple victims with severe injuries.

The first attack occurred around 1:20 p.m. near Founder’s Lane in Watersound Beach. A 45-year-old female, who was swimming just past the first sandbar with her husband, suffered significant trauma to her midsection, pelvic area, and the amputation of her left lower arm.

• Lifeguards and deputies immediately responded, providing care before transferring the patient to firefighter paramedics. She was then transported to HCA Florida Fort Walton-Destin Hospital in critical condition.

The second incident, reported at 2:56 p.m. near Sandy Shores Court in Seacrest Beach, involved two female victims between the ages of 15 and 17, according to Chief Crawford.

The group was swimming just inside the first sandbar when the attack occurred. The first victim suffered severe injuries to one upper and one lower extremity, requiring the application of tourniquets. She was transported in critical condition to Ascension Sacred Heart, Pensacola.

• The second victim sustained flesh wounds to her right foot and was taken to Ascension Sacred Heart Bay in stable condition.

Chief Crawford emphasized the rarity of the situation, stating, “Marine life is out there. That’s their environment. when you go into their environment, unfortunately, as rare as these things are, these things can happen.”

• Sheriff Adkinson addressed the unusual nature of the attacks, saying, “It is rare, exceedingly rare to have three victims in one day. We understand that. But we need to make sure that we’re also using good judgment.”

In response to the attacks, authorities have closed the water to swimming for a two-mile radius around the incident sites. Experts from Mote Marine in Sarasota have been contacted to investigate any potential anomalies.

Both Chief Crawford and Sheriff Adkinson commended the swift actions of lifeguards, deputies, and nearby citizens with medical training who provided immediate care to the victims. They also praised the seamless coordination between the South Walton Fire District, Walton County Sheriff’s Office, and Walton Air Rescue in handling the incidents.

While the specific species of sharks involved in the attacks has not been identified, authorities acknowledge that sharing the water with marine life is an inherent risk.

NEWS

‘I made it’: Teen Lulu Gribbin recovering after losing hand, leg in Walton County shark attack

A teenager from Birmingham, Alabama, is recovering at Sacred Heart Hospital in Pensacola after losing her left hand and part of her right leg in a shark attack at a Walton County beach on Friday, June 7, 2024.

• Lulu Gribbin was one of three victims in two separate shark incidents that occurred within a span of 90 minutes.

According to Lulu’s mother, Ann Blair Gribbin, Lulu and her twin sister, Ellie, were on a mother-daughter beach trip with friends when the attack occurred. The group was walking back from lunch when they noticed people on the beach standing and looking out into the water. Upon realizing that Lulu and her friends were not answering their phones, the mothers began to panic and ran towards the scene.

Ann Blair found Lulu surrounded by a group of people on the ground, with severe wounds on her leg. Lulu was airlifted to Sacred Heart Hospital, where she underwent emergency surgery.

• Surgeons informed the family that the shark had bitten off Lulu’s left hand and that they had to amputate her right leg halfway up from her knee to her hip. Lulu had also lost 2/3 of her blood.

Despite the severity of her injuries, Lulu’s condition has been improving. She was taken off the ventilator on Saturday and was able to speak, saying, “I made it.” Lulu recounted the attack, explaining that she and five friends were at the first sandbar, about waist-high, looking for sand dollars when the shark bit her hand and leg before attacking another friend’s foot.

Ann Blair expressed gratitude for the individuals who pulled Lulu out of the water, the doctors and nurses on the beach who applied tourniquets, and the medical staff at Sacred Heart Hospital.

• She acknowledged that while their lives will be forever changed, Lulu is strong, beautiful, and brave, and the family will support her every step of the way.

On Monday, June 10, Lulu underwent the first of many surgeries to clean out the wounds and begin closing the amputations. Doctors reported that the surgery went well, and Lulu remained alert and talkative throughout the day, according to her mother. The family also had the opportunity to thank two men who helped pull Lulu from the water and carry her to shore, with Lulu expressing her gratitude for their life-saving actions.

As Lulu continues her recovery journey, her family asks for prayers for strength, healing, and acceptance. They are grateful for the outpouring of love and support from the community and remain hopeful for Lulu’s future, with her mother stating, “Lulu is here, and we are forever grateful for this journey.”

SPONSORED BY WILDWOOD GARDEN

Local fiber provider LiveOak expanding rapidly in Okaloosa County

As part of our Home and Garden series this month, we’re focusing on an essential aspect of modern households: internet connectivity.

LiveOak Fiber, a regional broadband provider, is building a robust fiber optic network to bring high-speed internet access to thousands of homes and businesses throughout the area.

• With LiveOak Fiber’s transparent pricing, no data caps, and contract-free plans, customers can enjoy reliable, high-speed internet while potentially saving on their monthly bills.

Steve Smith, Chief Revenue Officer at LiveOak Fiber, shed light on the company’s progress and unique approach in a recent interview. 

“This is probably the largest privately funded infrastructure project in Okaloosa County,” Smith noted, emphasizing the scale and impact of LiveOak’s fiber deployment. “It’s right up there with roads and some of the bridges, but this one’s more personal because it goes into people’s yards.”

One key differentiator for LiveOak is its commitment to hiring locally, Smith says. The company has already brought on over 100 employees from the area, working closely with community stakeholders to ensure the benefits of a local provider. 

• This dedication has earned LiveOak recognition, including being named Business of the Year by the Greater Fort Walton Beach Chamber of Commerce. “We’re fulfilling our promise by hiring over 100 local employees and working closely with community stakeholders,” Smith said.

When it comes to infrastructure, LiveOak is taking a forward-thinking approach. The company’s fiber network is being installed entirely underground, minimizing exposure to the elements and potential disruptions. 

“Fiber networks themselves have a lower environmental impact. They use less electricity,” Smith explained. “If your router has power, the signal will go all the way through.” Smith says his underground installation sets LiveOak apart from other providers who rely on aerial fiber, which can be more susceptible to damage from weather, wildlife, and other factors.

While the construction process can be disruptive, LiveOak is working diligently to minimize the impact on residents’ yards and properties. The company coordinates closely with local utilities, uses advanced locating techniques, and has a dedicated team to quickly address any issues that arise. 

• “We try to leave it as good as we found it,” Smith assured. “If it’s not the case, tell us and we will fix it.” LiveOak marks all of their trucks, provides contact numbers, and aims to be transparent throughout the construction process.

In terms of service offerings, LiveOak is focused on providing straightforward, transparent pricing without data caps or contracts. The company’s residential packages are designed to meet the evolving needs of households, with symmetrical upload and download speeds to support remote work, online learning, and streaming. LiveOak also includes a user-friendly app for Wi-Fi management and parental controls. 

“All of our packages for residential are no data caps because to introduce a limitation on the internet is odd to me,” Smith explained. “The nature of the internet itself is unlimited connectivity.”

With the recent changes to the Affordable Connectivity Program, which provided subsidies for internet access, many consumers may see their bills increase. However, LiveOak’s pricing has remained consistent, as the company did not rely on tactics to artificially lower prices. 

• “Prices are the same,” Smith confirmed. “We haven’t changed anything. We are just working to get people to try us.”

For those eager to make the switch to LiveOak Fiber, Smith says the process is quick and easy. Once the network is available in a neighborhood, residents can check availability on the company’s website and schedule an installation, typically within a two-week window.

LiveOak’s local, full-time technicians provide white-glove service, ensuring a smooth transition. “If you are in an installable area, you can actually pick a package and you can schedule your install,” Smith said. “Right now, we’re running around two weeks out.”

The response from the community has been overwhelmingly positive, with customers and local leaders alike recognizing LiveOak’s commitment to service and connectivity. 

• “I can’t say enough good things about it,” Smith shared, highlighting the support from chambers of commerce and business leaders. “For every negative comment we get on social media, we have several people that will actually come to our defense, which I’ve never seen in a service provider environment.”

As LiveOak Fiber continues its rapid expansion, the company remains focused on its mission to provide reliable, high-speed internet to the residents and businesses of Okaloosa County. With a customer-centric approach, transparent pricing, and a robust fiber network, LiveOak is well-positioned to meet the growing demand for connectivity in the region. 

• Smith’s message to consumers is clear: “Give us a try. It’s not going to hurt and it’s not going to cost you anything extra. You’ll save money. If it’s not as advertised, tell us and we’ll fix it.” 

To learn more about LiveOak Fiber’s services and check availability, visit www.liveoakfiber.com.

HEALTH

Mental Health Summit to focus on legislative updates, trauma services, and women’s safety

The Okaloosa County Commission on the Status of Women (OCCSW) will host a Mental Health Summit at Northwest Florida State College on Friday, June 14, 2024, from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

• The event will take place in the Raider Café, located in Building 400 on the college’s Niceville Campus, and will feature a keynote speech by Florida House Representative Patt Maney, who has been instrumental in championing changes to the state’s mental health legislation.

Rep. Maney, a strong advocate for mental health reform, recently led the charge in the Florida House of Representatives to pass CS/CS/HB 7021 – Mental Health and Substance Abuse, a bill aimed at modernizing Florida’s Baker and Marchman Acts. The legislation, which received unanimous approval in the House, marks the first major improvement to the Baker Act in 53 years and the Marchman Act in 30 years.

• “Persistence surely does pay off,” said Rep. Maney back in March. “After four years in office pursuing these improvements, I am delighted that my colleagues are just as determined as I to see this good legislation implemented.”

The proposed changes include modernizing standards for involuntary mental health treatment services, broadening the definition of licensed medical practitioners qualified to provide care, and refining the responsibilities of county courts. The bill aims to reduce recidivism, improve access to care, and increase the efficiency of mental health service delivery, supported by a $50 million appropriation.

During the Mental Health Summit, Rep. Maney will discuss these legislative updates to the Baker Act and their potential impact on Florida’s mental health system.

In addition to the keynote speech, attendees can participate in a mental health panel discussion on trauma-related therapeutic services and advocacy, as well as an interactive workshop on women’s personal security and situational awareness led by Empower Academy President Matthew Docchio, a retired Sergeant First Class from the United States Army Special Forces Green Berets.

Registration for the Mental Health Summit is available online and must be completed by June 10, 2024. Participants have the option to purchase a box lunch for $12 when registering online.

WELLNESS

CrossFit Fort Walton Beach hosts first community event to benefit local animal shelter

CrossFit Fort Walton Beach, the area’s newest CrossFit gym, is hosting their inaugural event called “Operation AMRAP” on Saturday, June 15, 2024, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. The event aims to benefit the Panhandle Animal Welfare Society (PAWS) in Fort Walton Beach.

Owners David and Melissa Bowell, both natives of the Fort Walton Beach area, decided to combine their passions for fitness and animal welfare in this unique event. 

• David, a law enforcement officer, and Melissa, the principal at Meigs Middle School in Shalimar, Florida, wanted to involve the community and raise awareness about the number of rescues at PAWS.

Throughout the day, participants can engage in various workouts, including “Deadlift for Dogs,” where a $5 buy-in will go directly to PAWS. Attendees will have 60 seconds to complete as many reps as possible, with weights set at 95 pounds for women and 135 pounds for men. Later in the day, the CrossFit fitness test will be held, consisting of a 500-meter row, 40 squats, 30 sit-ups, 20 push-ups, and 10 pull-ups, with scaling options available.

PAWS will be present at the event with several dogs, including some older ones, in hopes of finding them forever homes. BTS Canines will also be on-site to discuss dog training and their services. The event will feature a food truck, Smoke and Whiskey, offering barbecue from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

• CrossFit Fort Walton Beach will also be selling t-shirts with all the proceeds go to PAWS. The shirts are $30 each and can be pre-ordered and picked up at Operation AMRAP. A limited number will also be sold the day of the event.

For the Bowells, supporting an organization like PAWS is deeply personal. “We have two rescues,” Melissa shared. “PAWS has over 200 dogs in their facility right now, and they’re desperate for fosters. It just breaks my heart because those animals need love.”

The couple believes that fitness and animal companionship are essential factors in living a healthy life. 

• “Animals need it, but as you get older, you need to do something for your fitness and wellness. Having a dog is a protective factor too,” David explained. “Studies have shown that dog owners walk at least 3,000 more steps than people who don’t own animals.”

David Bowell, a 27-year veteran of the Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office, discovered CrossFit around 2010 and fell in love with the camaraderie and community aspect. After retiring from the Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office in January 2024, he decided to open his own CrossFit gym to recreate that sense of belonging and help people stay healthy and active as they age.

“Maybe you used to be an athlete, are getting older, and need to stay in shape to enjoy retirement,” David said, explaining his target audience. “So you’re in your thirties, forties, or fifties, and you want to find a way to get back to being healthy and have good movement so you can enjoy your retirement, spend time with loved ones, travel, raise grandkids, and do whatever it is you want to do.”

The Bowells emphasize the importance of scaling workouts to meet individual needs and abilities. 

• “We take these workouts that are written for the most fit person and scale down,” Melissa explained. “You start at a benchmark and scaffold down. Then, you’re doing the same workout.”

CrossFit Fort Walton Beach offers classes Monday through Saturday, with the potential for Sunday classes based on client needs. New members are required to go through a foundations program, which includes lessons on CrossFit movements, terminology, and etiquette. This approach allows individuals to feel comfortable and confident when joining regular classes.

“Most CrossFit gyms do a form of that, whether they call it foundations or on-ramp,” David said. “It’s for that person who hears about CrossFit but they’re scared to walk in the door or pick up the phone. We create a relationship, not just as a coach and client, but person-to-person, so we get to know each other.”

CrossFit Fort Walton Beach is located at 726 Beal Pkwy Building 3, Fort Walton Beach. For more information, visit their website at crossfit-fwb.com.

NEWS

45-year-old Milton man killed in early morning ATV crash

A 45-year-old Milton man died in an ATV crash on Wallace Lake Road early Saturday morning, according to the Florida Highway Patrol.

The incident occurred at approximately 12:30 a.m., about 0.5 miles west of Big Sky Drive. The rider, whose identity has not been released, was traveling east on Wallace Lake Road when he veered off the road onto the south shoulder and struck a tree.

• The impact threw the rider from the ATV, and he was pronounced dead at the scene by paramedics from Lifeguard EMS. Authorities noted that the rider was not wearing a helmet at the time of the crash.

The Florida Highway Patrol is continuing to investigate the incident. No further details were immediately available.