Amir Reese commits to Oregon State from Choctaw

Inside The GAB Spot in Fort Walton Beach

Fans of retro entertainment will find a sprawling playground at The GAB Spot, which sits in the old Goodwill building at 913 N. Beal Parkway in Fort Walton Beach. The venue is a seven‑day‑a‑week destination run by general manager Michelle Corrigan, offering everything from classic arcade cabinets to a full‑service dining experience. Its colorful layout and lively atmosphere make it a go‑to spot for families and groups looking for a day of high‑energy fun.

The attraction dazzles with more than 40 different arcade titles scattered throughout the space. Bowlers can choose between eight standard lanes—rentable by the hour—and a separate six‑lane duckpin setup with smaller balls. For those who like a sharper challenge, five axe‑throwing stations let players launch real axes at wooden targets. The “G” in GAB stands for gelato, and a full‑service restaurant and bar complete the entertainment mix with plenty of seating options.

• Over 40 arcade cabinets and games spread across the venue
• Eight traditional bowling lanes, rentable hourly
• Six duckpin bowling lanes for a unique twist
• Five axe‑throwing lanes using real axes
• Gelato (the “G”) and a full‑service restaurant and bar
• Managed by general manager Michelle Corrigan
• Located at the former Goodwill building, The Shops at Wright Plaza, 913 N. Beal Parkway
• Open every day of the week

Amir Reese’s High School Impact

Choctaw’s senior defensive back Amir Reese capped his high‑school season with eye‑catching statistics that drew attention from college scouts. In his final year, he posted 40 tackles, four defensive touchdowns, ten pass deflections and five interceptions, including two pick‑sixes that helped the team reach the Final Four. Reese also delivered an 80‑yard kickoff return for a touchdown against American Heritage during the state semifinals.

Reese’s prowess on the field drew offers from top programs, including Georgia Tech, UCF, South Florida, Duke and several others. After weighing multiple paths, he chose Oregon State, describing the Beavers as a “great fit” that offered him family closeness and a supportive environment. He intends to add depth to the Oregon State defense, planning to play multiple roles such as cornerback, nickelbacker and slot receiver.

The commitment marks a shift from a recruiting atmosphere filled with “drama,” as Reese stated, focusing instead on his own growth and his teammates’ pursuit of a state championship. He emphasized his role as a leader, vowing to keep his teammates accountable and to stay resilient through the challenges of senior year. The decision was celebrated by his family and close circle, who praised his maturity and focus.

• 40 tackles, 4 defensive TDs, 10 pass deflections in senior season
• Five interceptions, two returned for touchdowns
• 80‑yard kickoff return TD vs American Heritage in state semis
• Committed to Oregon State; three‑star prospect
• Recruited by Georgia Tech, UCF, South Florida, Duke and others
• General manager Michelle Corrigan praised his leadership at The GAB Spot

The convergence of a bustling entertainment venue and a rising football star highlights the diverse talent emerging from the Fort Walton Beach area. As Reese prepares for college competition, his journey from local fields to the Pac‑12 underscores the impact of community programs like The GAB Spot and the development of athletic prowess in the region.