The Winners of The 16th Annual OAA Okaloosa County School Poster Contest
FORT WALTON BEACH, FL (May 7, 2025) — The Okaloosa Arts Alliance would like to thank all the Okaloosa County School students who participated in the 16th annual OAA Okaloosa County School Poster Contest. This year the theme was “Arts in Outer Space”. Although we couldn't make everyone a 1st place winner, all 138 entries were on display at the Emerald Coast Science Center on Sunday, May 4th. All in attendance thoroughly enjoyed the artwork, live music by Grow Your Gift Conservatory of Music and food
Eglin Federal Credit Union Recognizes IRA Assistant Wendy Ellerd for 25 Years of Service
Fort Walton Beach, Fla. (May 6, 2025) - Eglin Federal Credit Union is pleased to congratulate IRA Assistant Wendy Ellerd for 25 years of service. Wendy currently resides in Fort Walton Beach. “We are incredibly fortunate to have had Wendy as a part of our Credit Union family for the past 25 years. Her dedication, kindness, and exceptional service have made a profound impact on both our team and our members,” said VP Branch Operations Bron Ringstad. “Wendy consistently goes above and beyond, ensuring that
Johna Jones Receives Eglin Federal Credit Union’s 5-Star Employee Award for the First Quarter of 2025
Fort Walton Beach, Fla. (May 5, 2025) - Eglin Federal Credit Union is pleased to announce Indirect Lending Officer Johna Jones has been selected as the 5-Star Performer of the First Quarter of 2025. Johna has been employed with the Credit Union since August 2017 and currently resides in Gulf Breeze. The 5-Star Performer Award is a quarterly employee recognition program. The nominator provides a written submission describing how the employee embraces EFCU’s Five-Star Values: Respectful, Trustworthy,
Eglin Federal Credit Union Recognizes Card Services Manager Alicia Kennedy for 25 Years of Service
Fort Walton Beach, Fla. (April 23, 2025) - Eglin Federal Credit Union is pleased to congratulate Card Services Manager Alicia Kennedy for 25 years of service. Alicia currently resides in Fort Walton Beach. “Over the past 25 years, Alicia has been a steadfast presence at Eglin FCU, contributing in various roles throughout her tenure. Her dedication and reliability have been instrumental in maintaining the smooth operation of our team,” said SVP/Chief Payments Officer Dawn Oravetz. “We appreciate Alicia’s
Call to Students-16th Annual OAA Poster Contest
Okaloosa Arts Alliance Announces 16th Annual Okaloosa County School Poster Contest: "Art in Outer Space" FORT WALTON BEACH, FL (April 10, 2025) — The Okaloosa Arts Alliance (OAA) is excited to invite all K-12 students in Okaloosa County to showcase their creativity under the theme "Art in Outer Space” for the 16th Annual Okaloosa County School Poster Contest. Students may submit their entries individually or through their schools, with only one submission per student. Each artwork must include the
7th Annual Mac & Cheese Festival Brings in $60,000 for The Boys & Girls Clubs of the Emerald Coast
The Boys & Girls Clubs of the Emerald Coast is thrilled to announce that the 7th Annual Mac & Cheese Festival, held Sunday, March 16, 2025, at Destin Commons, raised $60,000 to support the young people we serve across the region. This event showcased the power of community uniting for our club kids. Our mission is to inspire and empower boys and girls by nurturing their sense of competence, purpose, belonging and influence. Through programs focused on academic success, character and citizenship, and
Eglin Federal Credit Union recognizes Quality Control/Underwriting Supervisor Susan Dombrigues for 30 years of service
Eglin Federal Credit Union is pleased to congratulate Mortgage Services Quality Control/Underwriting Supervisor Susan Dombrigues for 30 years of service. Susan currently resides in Fort Walton Beach. Photo caption: (from left to right) VP Mortgage Services Ashley Hall, Maintenance Custodian (Susan’s son) Ryan Dombrigues, SVP/Chief HR Officer Gina Denny, and Mortgage Services Manager Mark Franks congratulate Susan Dombrigues (center) on 30 years with Eglin FCU . “Over the past three decades, Susan has
Okaloosa County School District First Semester Highlights 2024-2025
As we enter a new semester, it is my pleasure to share the incredible achievements and milestones of the first half of the school year with our families and community members. It is truly inspiring to witness our students excel in academics, the arts, and athletics while our teachers and staff dedicate themselves to fostering a positive and dynamic learning environment. These highlights are a testament to everyone's collective hard work and commitment to the Okaloosa County School District. Let's take a
Eglin Federal Credit Union Honors Jerry Williams with President Emeritus Title
Eglin Federal Credit Union is proud to announce the board of directors has honored Jerry Williams with the prestigious title of President Emeritus, recognizing his exemplary service and leadership over the past decade as President/CEO. Jerry officially retired on Jan. 3, 2025. Jerry’s new title as President Emeritus was effective Jan. 6, 2025. Board Chair Dan McInnis praised Jerry Williams’ significant contributions, stating on behalf of the board of directions, “We deeply value Jerry Williams' leadership
Eglin Federal Credit Union Recognizes Senior Vice President/Chief Technology Officer Tim Farnsworth for 30 Years of Service
Eglin Federal Credit Union is proud to recognize SVP/Chief Technology Officer Tim Farnsworth’s remarkable 30-year career with the organization, during which he has grown to become an integral part of the credit union's leadership team. He oversees all cybersecurity, business continuity, electronic infrastructure and information technology operations. "We are thrilled to honor Tim for his three decades of exceptional service and unwavering commitment to Eglin Federal Credit Union," said President/CEO
Eglin Federal Credit Union infuses $1.9M into the Community Through Local Nonprofits
Eglin Federal Credit Union is spreading holiday cheer by donating $1.9 million into the community through local nonprofits. Monetary donations were made to the Air Force Enlisted Village, Children in Crisis, Emerald Coast Fitness Foundation, Fisher House of the Emerald Coast, Fresh Start for Children and Families, Habitat for Humanity of Okaloosa County, Habitat for Humanity of Walton County, Okaloosa Public Schools Foundation, the Southeastern Credit Union Foundation and the United Way Emerald
Eglin Federal Credit Union Recognizes Hurlburt Head Teller Gina Alford for 25 Years of Service
Eglin Federal Credit Union is pleased to recognize Hurlburt Head Teller Gina Alford for 25 years of service. Gina currently resides in Navarre. “We are delighted to celebrate a remarkable milestone as we honor Gina Alford, who has dedicated 25 years of exceptional service to our Hurlburt Branch,” said Hurlburt Branch Manager Vivian Gonzalez¬¬. “Her steadfast commitment to this branch, professionalism and friendly demeanor have made a lasting impact on both our team and our members. We are incredibly
Women United Empowers Local Teens with Mental Health Tools and Support
On Nov. 16, United Way Emerald Coast’s Women United hosted a transformative EmpowHER Seminar at the Boys and Girls Club of South Walton. Presented by Eglin Federal Credit Union, the event provided local teens with essential mental health resources, empowering educational tools, and a supportive community to foster self-confidence and resilience. Designed to address the growing need for mental health support across Okaloosa and Walton counties, the seminar featured interactive workshops facilitated by
Eglin Federal Credit Union names Cathie Staton new President/CEO
The board of directors has appointed Cathie Staton as the new President/CEO of Eglin Federal Credit Union effective Oct. 28, 2024. She succeeds Jerry Williams who is retiring after 30 years of service with Eglin FCU, the last 10 years as President/CEO. Under Williams’ leadership assets grew by more than $1 billion to nearly $2.9 billion with 124,000 members worldwide. He is well known for his involvement in several area chambers of commerce, economic development councils and nonprofit organizations. He
Eglin Federal Credit Union Promotes Neko Stubblefield to Senior VP of Membership and Community Development
Eglin Federal Credit Union is pleased to announce Neko Stubblefield of Baker has been promoted to the Senior VP of Membership and Community Development. Stubblefield has worked for the Credit Union since 2017. She oversees membership growth, community development and financial education. In her new role, she will have expanded responsibilities to include community development across the Credit Union’s expanding footprint. President/CEO Jerry Williams said, “We are thrilled to recognize Neko’s hard work,
Junior League of the Emerald Coast Hosts the Second Annual Toast on the Coast to Benefit the Child Clothing Project
The Junior League of the Emerald Coast (JLEC) will host their second annual Toast on the Coast fundraising event on Friday and Saturday, September 27-28, at Henderson Beach Resort to benefit a great cause while enjoying culinary delights from participating vendors. Proceeds from Toast on the Coast will go to benefit the Junior League of the Emerald Coast's mission and help support their community impact projects such as the Child Clothing Project which annually clothes 300-400 children in Okaloosa and
Community Comes Together for Students: Nine Schools, 90 Volunteers, and 540 Volunteer Hours
In a display of community spirit, 90 dedicated volunteers successfully prepared nine schools in the Okaloosa County School District (OCSD) for the 2024-2025 academic year. The collective effort, totaling 540 volunteer hours, underscores a strong partnership between the district and local organizations, ensuring an enriched educational environment for students. Volunteers from HCA Florida Fort Walton-Destin Hospital, Eglin Federal Credit Union, Florida Power and Light, and Hurlburt Field Air Force Base were
Tiffany Jackson Receives Eglin Federal Credit Union's 5-Star Employee Award for the 2nd Quarter
Eglin Federal Credit Union is pleased to announce Fort Walton Beach Member Service Counselor Tiffany Jackson has been selected as the 5-Star Performer of the 2nd Quarter of 2024. Tiffany has been employed with the Credit Union since May 2005 and currently resides in Crestview. The 5-Star Performer Award is a quarterly employee recognition program. The nominator provides a written submission describing how the employee embraces EFCU's Five-Star Values: Respectful, Trustworthy, Dedicated, Proactive and
United Way Emerald Coast Celebrates Achievements and Impact at 2024 Annual Meeting
United Way Emerald Coast (UWEC), a local non-profit dedicated to improving lives and building stronger communities, successfully concluded its Annual Meeting on Tuesday, July 30, at The Place on Beal in Fort Walton Beach. The sold-out event brought together more than 120 stakeholders including donors, volunteers, board members, elected officials, community leaders, and partners. The Annual Meeting served as a platform to celebrate UWEC’s accomplishments over the past year and engage with supporters,
Destin Chamber Trustees Invite Local First Responders to Appreciation Cookout on Sept. 11, 2024
The Destin Chamber Trustee members are celebrating and thanking local first responders with a free cookout on Wednesday, Sept. 11. They will be grilling hamburgers and hot dogs at Destin Fire Station #9 at 848 Airport Road, in Destin, from 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. All police officers, firefighters, medical personnel, beach safety, EMS and military are invited. Trustee membership is the highest membership level in the Destin Chamber, and it shows a significant commitment to and investment in the Chamber and in
Destin Forward Celebrates Beautification of Clement Taylor Park
On May 20, the Destin Forward Class of 2024 celebrated the completion of its class project, the beautification of Destin’s Clement Taylor Park, with a ribbon cutting. Improvements include educational signage, upgrades to the volleyball court, and the planting of Florida native plants. Destin Forward, the Destin Chamber’s community education and leadership program, was created to help find and educate future city and business leaders. In addition to the project, the class spent nine months touring and
15th Military Appreciation Free Lunch
Cumulus Media Fort Walton Beach-Destin has partnered with Eglin Federal Credit Union to provide a FREE lunch to anyone who has served or is currently serving our country. The 15th Military Appreciation Free Lunch is on Wednesday, May 15th from 11 am to 1 pm. Current and former military service members can enjoy a free lunch at one of five locations: Hot Head Burritos in Mary Esther and Crestview, Dodge’s Southern Style in Fort Walton Beach, Fazoli’s in Mary Esther, and Task Force Pizza in Fort Walton Beach.
17 Graduate from Destin Chamber’s Community Education & Leadership Program
On May 2, the Destin Chamber celebrated the graduation of 17 business professionals from its 15th Destin Forward class. During the event, the prestigious Destin Forward Leadership Award, chosen by class vote, was presented to Wendi Davis of Eglin Federal Credit Union. She is seen in the photo on the left with 2024 Chamber Chairman Christian Carlee of Trustmark. Destin Forward, a community education and leadership program, was created to help find and educate future city and business leaders. After a
Okaloosa Arts Alliance 15th Annual School Poster Contest Winners
The Okaloosa Arts Alliance would like to thank all the Okaloosa County School students who participated in the 15th annual OAA Okaloosa County School Poster Contest. This year the theme was “Arts in Outer Space”. Although we weren't able to make everyone a 1st place winner, all 106 entries are on display at Grow Your Gift Conservatory of Music through May 6, 2024. Grow Your Gift Conservatory of Music is located at 105B Lewis St, Fort Walton Beach, FL 32547 and their business hours are (9 am-7 pm
Eglin Federal Credit Union Partners with Okaloosa County School District to Bring Financial Literacy
Eglin Federal Credit Union and the Okaloosa County School District teamed up to bring financial literacy to high school students. Approximately 60 high school students from the 9th to 12th grades participated in lessons facilitated by Eglin Federal Credit Union’s VP Membership and Community Development, Neko Stubblefield, at Crestview High School on April 9. The personal financial literacy course covers a wide range of topics, from opening a checking or savings account to planning for retirement. “Eglin
6th Annual Mac & Cheese Festival Raises $60,000 for The Boys & Girls Clubs of the Emerald Coast
The 6th Annual Mac & Cheese Festival held on Sunday, March 10, 2024, at Destin Commons was a huge success. The event raised $60,000 in support of all local club kids. The Boys & Girls Clubs of the Emerald Coast is a local non-profit organization whose mission is to promote and enhance the development of boys and girls by instilling a sense of competence, usefulness, belonging, and influence through its programs focused on academic success, good character and citizenship, and healthy lifestyles. "Our
Paddle at the Park Set for May 11 at The Boardwalk on Okaloosa Island
The 12th Annual Paddle at the Park Sponsored by HCA Florida Destin Emergency will take place in the Gulf of Mexico behind The Boardwalk on Okaloosa Island on Saturday, May 11, 2024. This standup paddleboard race features 1- and 3-mile recreational races, a 6-mile elite race and a kids' fun out-and-back paddle. Racers and spectators alike will enjoy the festive atmosphere with displays and booths set up along the beach. The races have staggered start times, beginning at 9 a.m. The event will conclude with
Local Organizations Improve Teens’ Mental Health
United Way Emerald Coast's Women United hosted their second EmpowHER Teen Mental Health Seminar presented by Eglin Federal Credit Union Saturday, Nov. 4 at Walton High School. This event is part of a series aimed to empower local teenagers with mental health resources and education. Women United selected Defuniak Springs as the location due to the high caseloads carried by counselors and the stigma surrounding mental health in the area. The event featured interactive workshops and presentations from
Destin Chamber Trustees Invite Local First Responders to Appreciation Cookout
The Destin Chamber Trustee members are celebrating and thanking local first responders with a free cookout on Monday, Sept. 11. They will be grilling hamburgers and hot dogs and serving BBQ sliders and brisket at Destin Fire Station #9 at 848 Airport Road, in Destin, from 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. All police officers, firefighters, medical personnel, beach safety, EMS and military are invited. Trustee membership is the highest membership level in the Destin Chamber, and it shows a significant commitment to and
Teri Broxson Receives Eglin Federal Credit Union's 5-Star Employee Award for the 2nd Quarter
Eglin Federal Credit Union is pleased to announce Certified IRA Specialist Teri Broxson has been selected as the 5-Star Performer for the second quarter of 2023. Teri has been employed with the Credit Union for 26 years and currently resides in Fort Walton Beach. Member Service Supervisor Vanessa Cicchiani-Taylor said, “Teri is dedicated and proactive in helping our membership. She has also immersed herself in the community by volunteering to teach classes at the Center for Lifelong Learning at the
Eglin Federal Credit Union and Okaloosa Saves Partner in the Teach a Child to Save Campaign
Eglin Federal Credit Union partnered with Okaloosa Saves for the annual Teach a Child to Save campaign April 1 – June 30. Youth were encouraged to set a savings goal and make a deposit into a savings account at EFCU. This year there were 114 youth under the age of 18 who participated with deposits totaling $23,335.81. Their names were entered into a random drawing for six children to win a $50 deposit into their EFCU account from Okaloosa Saves. Since the program began in 2004, 2,286 children made deposits
Eglin Federal Credit Union Opens New Location in DeFuniak Springs
Eglin Federal Credit Union today held a ribbon-cutting ceremony for its DeFuniak Springs ATM/Video Teller Drive-thru located at 677 Highway 90. The first phase of this site is now open. A full-service branch will open at this location later in 2024. Members have the ability to speak with a live teller over two-way video during regular business hours. Video Tellers are available Monday through Thursday from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. These personalized tellers assist members
Eglin Federal Credit Union recognizes Fort Walton Beach Teller Bonnie McIntosh for 25 years of service
Eglin Federal Credit Union is pleased to recognize Fort Walton Beach Teller Bonnie McIntosh for 25 years of service. Bonnie currently resides in Fort Walton Beach. “We congratulate Bonnie on becoming a member of the National Association of Federal Credit Union’s Quarter Century Club in recognition of her 25 years of service to the credit union industry,” said SVP/COO Kim Nauta. “Bonnie is a favorite with a lot of our long-time members, and we appreciate her knowledge, dedication and commitment to EFCU and
Eglin Federal Credit Union recognizes Senior Vice President/Chief Payments Officer Dawn Oravetz for 35 Years of Service
Eglin Federal Credit Union is pleased to congratulate Senior Vice President/Chief Payments Officer Dawn Oravetz for her 35 years of service. “Dawn has been an integral part of our team over the past 35 years, and we value her contributions to our growth,” said President/CEO Jerry Williams. “We are grateful for the loyalty, expertise and commitment she has shown, and the years of service she has dedicated to our organization.” Dawn joined the Credit Union in May 1988 as a Computer Aide in Data Processing.
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Okaloosa County Public Schools Foundation Inaugural Pickleball Smash a Success
The Okaloosa Public Schools Foundation (OPSF) held its inaugural Spring Pickleball Smash April 28 thru 30 at Mooney Tennis & Pickleball Courts in Fort Walton Beach. The three-day tournament raised over $15,000, which will support and extend educational opportunities for the Take Stock in Children (TSIC) scholarship program, which currently provides two-year college scholarships and one-on-one mentoring for academically deserving high school students from low-income families. In addition, the money will also
