Gulf Winds Golf Tournament Shatters Records, Raising $78K for Charity!

Pace, FL, USA - The Gulf Winds Foundation has struck gold again with its recent Chip in Fore Charity Golf Tournament held at the scenic Stonebrook Golf Course in Pace. This remarkable event took place on June 5, 2025, and successfully raised over $78,000 to support a variety of charitable activities the foundation oversees. It seems there’s really something to be said for community spirit and generous hearts!

The tournament featured an entertaining classic four-player scramble that added healthy competition to the day. Players not only had the thrill of golf but also participated in a $10,000 hole-in-one challenge, along with various on-course games that kept the excitement alive. First-place honors went to a talented team comprised of Clay Mallard, Billy Burch, Dale Wright, and Louie Roberson, while David Feliciano, Colby Scruggs, and Kyle Mitchell secured second place. Coming in third were Tony Silva, Chris Munro, Jonathan Smith, and Bryon Cobb, rounding out a day filled with camaraderie and friendly rivalry, according to PNJ.

Supporting Local Causes

Proceeds from this charitable endeavor are earmarked for essential local initiatives, including the Gulf Winds’ annual scholarship program and vital support for nonprofits such as Manna Food Pantry, the Council on Aging of West Florida, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwest Florida, and the Rally Foundation. These organizations play a crucial role in the community, aiding those in need and offering vital services, demonstrating that together, we can make a real difference.

Interestingly enough, June 5 was a busy day in the local community beyond the golf tournament. Santa Rosa County Animal Services hosted Community Cats Day at the Santa Rosa County Animal Shelter, offering free spaying and neutering services for up to 45 community cats. Residents were encouraged to bring in stray or feral cats, showcasing the commitment to local animal welfare while emphasizing community involvement.

Promoting Educational Opportunities

In the spirit of growth and improvement, Lighthouse Private Christian Academy announced the expansion of its Milton campus. Thanks to the generous contributions from Mike Papantonio and other community donors, the new facility will cater to middle and high school students, effectively addressing the growing demand for Christian education in the area. This new campus will not only focus on traditional academic programs but will also feature an agricultural component, allowing students to utilize the property’s five acres, a true step forward for educational diversity and opportunities.

Furthermore, in an inspiring display of community support, Escambia County District 5 resident Luverne Bonner received a new home through county assistance programs after living in a deteriorating house for over 25 years. The Housing Demo and Replacement Program, funded by the State Housing Initiatives Partnership (SHIP), is designed to replace uninhabitable homes for income-eligible residents, giving families like Bonner’s a chance at a brighter future. “This new home is life-changing for me and my family,” Bonner expressed, highlighting the importance of such programs.

It’s clear that the Gulf Winds Foundation’s second annual golf tournament was not just a day of fun but a vital contribution to bettering our community. As we reflect on such initiatives and the many beneficiaries they support, one can’t help but feel grateful for the collaborative spirit that fuels our neighborhoods. There’s no denying that placing faith in community efforts truly does pay off!

Stay tuned for more ways to get involved in local philanthropy and community events—you never know how you can make a difference!

For more details on the golf tournament, visit Gulf Winds, and to learn about similar community initiatives, check out the charitable efforts at the Memorial Tournament.