By Barbara Palmgren
250th Celebration Begins!
The Preamble to the Declaration of Independence states:
We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.
This being a special year to celebrate all year long, each month I will submit articles about key events happening around our county. This entire year, we celebrate the birthday of a document that changed our nation and the world. Okaloosa County has already begun plans for several large events to honor this historic moment. The 2026 America 250th Commission participants meet twice a month to coordinate events. Two such events are a grand parade in downtown Crestview at 4 p.m. on May 9 and a gala VIP dinner and drone show on June 12 from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. at the Rigdon Center in Fort Walton Beach.
This month, I highlight a special tribute at the Heritage Museum of Northwest Florida. This local history museum is a special place. Tucked away in old downtown Valparaiso, it houses memorabilia and artifacts from all of Northwest Florida. So as not to forget these artifacts, a display case was moved from another part of the museum to the new exhibit hall. It contains artifacts found on Eglin Air Force Base property from the time of and before the Revolution, including tools and pottery.
The rest of the exhibit is a history lesson come alive for residents and visitors. Events, places and key patriot heroes are showcased on large panels designed by CJ Signs, with words and pictures taking us back to the time before and including the signing of the Declaration of Independence. In addition, a tent, movie and Youth Corner provide more visual and hands-on experiences for visitors.
In March, financial contributors to this exhibit were honored with a reception at the museum. A special thank you to Magnolia Grill and Tom Rice for providing delicious appetizers and desserts for the occasion. Each contributor received a “Betsy Ross” pin and an in-depth presentation of the exhibit by Dr. Marie Hallion, curator of the exhibit. Dr. Hallion is the chair of the Heritage Museum of Northwest Florida.
An Honor Long Overdue to a Veteran Volunteer at the Heritage Museum of Northwest Florida
With his quiet demeanor and smile, Mike Holt is a friendly face that often greets visitors as he helps with many tasks at the museum. Whenever the manager can’t be present at the museum, Mike provides leadership and care for the museum during that absence. A trusted presence, Mike has smiled and served for over 25 years at this historic treasure in Valparaiso that preserves history for all of Northwest Florida.
On Saturday, March 28, 2026, Mike was awarded a plaque for his dedication and service. Applause rang throughout the room as he humbly accepted this thank you from everyone. His lovely wife, Lou Holt, attended the volunteer luncheon with Mike. Each year, the museum celebrates the work of volunteers who help with school tours, summer camps, “go-to” tasks from management and even sewing colonial hats and other clothing items for display in our newest exhibit, the Celebrate America 250! The Revolution Exhibit.
Trustees Mike Weaver, Ken Walsh, Barb Palmgren and Marie Hallion, served a delicious lunch catered by Sugar Mill Sweets in Fort Walton Beach. It was their turn to serve those who volunteer in so many ways throughout the year.
Community Connection
The ETA Chapter of Delta Kappa Gamma recently held its quarterly meeting in the museum’s Exhibit Hall. Surrounded by the new Celebrate America 250! exhibit, members enjoyed a patriotic setting before touring the museum, including the pollinator garden and exhibits spanning from prehistoric times to the region’s early industries.
Home School Friday
May 8 | 10 a.m.
Homeschool students are invited to a special educational program featuring Travis Souther, UWF librarian, presenting Duty Before Glory: Washington’s Enduring Legacy of Leadership. This engaging discussion explores the life and influence of George Washington.
Cost is $7 per student. Registration is required by calling 850-678-2615.
History Sandwiched In
May 8 | Noon
Bring a brown bag lunch and enjoy a free presentation by Travis Souther on Duty Before Glory: Washington’s Enduring Legacy of Leadership. This program offers a compelling look at the life and leadership of America’s first president.
Mother’s Day Tea
May 9 | 1–3 p.m.
Celebrate Mother’s Day at the Heritage Museum Association’s annual tea. Guests are invited to dress in Victorian-era attire or come as they are to enjoy an afternoon honoring mothers.
Cost is $30 per person, $25 for members. Registration is required.
Outdoor Cooking Demonstration
May 16 | 11 a.m.
Deb Edgar presents Feeding the Frontier Army, an outdoor cooking demonstration highlighting Revolutionary War-era food preparation. Learn what soldiers ate, how meals were prepared and the limited rations provided by the young government. This program will take place outdoors around a cook fire.
