Destin councilman arrested on felony theft charges
on September 11 following felony grand theft allegations. Braden is accused of taking money for an unlicensed home repair project, partially demolishing a deck, and abandoning it. A court hearing is scheduled for October 15, 2026.
Destin Charity Wine Auction Foundation Changes Its Name.
The Destin Charity Wine Auction Foundation rebranded as Northwest Florida Children’s Foundation, claiming broader impact and “systemic change” for children.
Sinfonia Gulf Coast to perform live score for ‘Oz’
Sinfonia Gulf Coast *claims* its “redefined” symphony experience promises a “magical new way” to see “The Wizard of Oz.”
Destin Home Invasion Investigation Intensifies as OCSO Searches for Milton Woman
The Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office is investigating a reported home invasion robbery at a Destin apartment early Friday morning. Two armed men reportedly entered the residence and attempted to rob the occupants. Investigators are seeking Taylor Nicole Robinson, 28, who left the scene, to confirm her safety and well-being.
Norriego Point update | Residents voice concerns as city & county work toward ‘conflict resolution’
Destin and Okaloosa County officials are working toward a compromise over who should manage Norriego Point. A proposed agreement would give Destin jurisdiction over the property in exchange for free parking for Okaloosa County residents. Officials and residents raised concerns about development, land-use regulations, jurisdiction and the property’s future.
The Relentless Citizen: Alan Osborne’s Second Mission
Alan Osborne spent 35 years in Army and Air Force Special Operations before turning his focus to local government oversight. Now a familiar figure at public meetings across Walton and Okaloosa counties, he digs through records, challenges officials, and says his work is simply an extension of the oath he took decades ago.
A Stunning Wildlife Recovery: Hotdog and Donatello’s Journey Back to the Gulf
The Gulfarium CARE Center released two rehabilitated loggerhead sea turtles, Hotdog and Donatello, at Inlet Beach after both recovered from fishing‑hook injuries. Crowds gathered to watch the pair return to the Gulf, marking another successful rescue effort supported by the St. Joe Community Foundation and local wildlife partners.
End of an Era: Dr. Diane Kelley Retires as Destin High Names New Principal
Destin High School has announced a major leadership transition, naming Jill McNamara as principal and Matt Means as assistant principal. Longtime principal Dr. Diane Kelley is retiring after 45 years in education but will remain involved as advisor to the governing board and legislative lobbyist.
‘It Was Never About Free Parking’: Inside the Political Battle for Norriego Point
The political fight over Norriego Point has entered a new phase after the Destin City Council voted to begin Chapter 164 conflict resolution with Okaloosa County. What appeared to be a dispute over free parking has become a battle over who will control the future of one of Destin’s most valuable waterfront properties.
After Bertha Passes, Three Sea Turtles Finally Swim Free
Three rehabilitated sea turtles returned to the Gulf of Mexico Friday after Tropical Storm Bertha delayed their release. Gulfarium CARE Center staff released Frida, Ziti and Monroe at James Lee Park following medical treatment for fishing injuries and a dramatic rescue from the rocks at Norriego Point.
