Florida Chamber President: Emerald Coast Must ‘Play the Long Game’ to Secure Economic Future

Florida Chamber President Mark Wilson told Emerald Coast business leaders that Florida’s growth depends on long-term planning, investment in early education, and local collaboration. Speaking alongside former Niceville City Councilman Sal Nodjomian, Wilson highlighted challenges such as housing affordability and retaining young workers while projecting that Florida could become the world’s 10th largest economy by 2030.
Texas Parents Arrested After Leaving Baby Alone on Walton County Beach for Nearly an Hour

Two parents visiting from Houston were arrested in Walton County after deputies say they left their six-month-old baby alone under a beach tent for nearly an hour while walking with their other children on Miramar Beach.
Rotary Club of Destin Expands Public Rescue Tube Program Across Okaloosa County Beaches

“These tubes are already making a difference at Destin beach accesses,” said Rotary project co-chairs Dion Moniz and Wayne Bernheisel. “Now, we are excited to expand this proven program across more parts of Okaloosa County, making our beaches even safer for residents and visitors.”
Tickets Available Thursday for Emerald Coast Classic

Tickets go on sale Thursday for the 2025 Emerald Coast Classic women’s basketball tournament at Raider Arena, featuring eight college teams.
Georgia Woman Arrested After Destin Shooting

A Georgia woman was arrested in Destin after deputies say she shot a man in the leg during an argument on August 17. She faces charges including aggravated assault with a deadly weapon and use of a firearm while under the influence.
Okaloosa approves $2M in tourism tax-funding for Destin and Fort Walton Beach

From greens to boardwalks, Okaloosa just approved $2 million in tourism tax spending — but not every city is cashing in this year.
Gulfarium Celebrates 70 Years with Year-Long Events, Discounted Admission

From leaping dolphins to a 70-year-old manatee, Gulfarium is throwing a year-long party to celebrate seven decades on the Emerald Coast.
You’ll Want to Know THIS About Last Month’s Destin Tour Helicopter Crash Before You Take Your Family on a Flight:

The National Transportation Safety Board released a damning report about the helicopter in June’s crash.
More Trolleys, Longer Hours for Pensacola Beach Air Show

More Trolleys, Longer Hours for Pensacola Beach Air Show Staff Reports June 26, 2025 12:40 pm Pensacola Beach, Tourism, Traffic In Brief: 🚌 Expanded Service: SRIA extends trolley hours and adds buses for Air Show 📍When & Where: July 11–12, on Pensacola Beach from Park East and Park West to Casino Beach 🚦Expect Delays: Riders […]
Florida Announces RECORD Tourism – Why Did The Emerald Coast’s Numbers Slump?

Florida just hit a record-breaking tourism milestone—but the beaches of Okaloosa and Walton counties are feeling the crunch. Here’s what local leaders are doing to stay afloat.