Today in History: The Mid-Bay Bridge opens with stampede of runners
On June 27, 1993, 5,200 runners from across the country came to inaugurate the Mid-Bay Bridge with a 5K run across the span. Florida Governor ‘Walkin Lawton’ Chiles pulled the trigger on the starting gun and set the runners on their way to Destin across the 3.6 mile structure above the Choctawhatchee Bay. The bridge, which was built for $81 million and initially cost $2 to cross each way, cut off about 25 minutes of travel time and was finished five months ahead of schedule.
Florida Beach Chair Manufacturer Honored in USA Made Showcase
Destin’s Sunrise Chair Co. has been selected to represent Florida in a nationwide showcase celebrating American-made products and America’s 250th anniversary.
Golden Hour for Good: Popular Wine & Fries Event Returns to Destin
Ronald McDonald House Charities of Northwest Florida will host its annual Wine & Fries fundraiser in Destin, raising money to help families stay close during medical treatment.
Cruise on in to Eglin Federal Credit Union for America’s 250th Celebration Giveaway
Eglin Federal Credit Union is celebrating America’s 250th birthday with patriotic branch events and a chance to win a cruise vacation for two.
Eglin Issues a New Gulf Warning Ahead of Munitions Testing
Eglin Air Force Base will conduct munitions testing in the Gulf of America from June 1-6, prompting safety warnings for boaters near Destin.
Swimmer Fighting For Life After Miramar Beach Rescue
A swimmer was hospitalized in critical condition Thursday after struggling in the Gulf near Miramar Beach while attempting to reach offshore buoys.
Lionfish Tournament Makes Massive Impact On Gulf Ecosystem
More than 20,000 invasive lionfish were removed from Gulf waters during the Emerald Coast Open in Destin-Fort Walton Beach.
Okaloosa County Launches Sweeping Transit Overhaul After ‘Colossal Failure’ Warning
Okaloosa County leaders voted to phase out fixed-route transit service and replace it with a paratransit-focused model by August 2026 amid concerns over rising costs and low ridership.
Destin Kindergartener Earns Statewide Victory, Wins Big Scholarship
Destin Elementary kindergartner Claire Grelle earned statewide recognition after winning Florida’s America250FL Art Contest and receiving a college scholarship.
New Spray Routes Announced as Mosquito Threat Grows
Okaloosa County officials released the 2026 mosquito spraying schedule as crews prepare for another active mosquito season across the region.
