COVID Beach Shutdowns to Cost Walton County Big
A federal appeals court has ruled that Walton County violated the constitutional rights of private beach owners by barring them from their own beachfronts during the COVID-19 shutdowns. The Eleventh Circuit ruled that the county’s 2020 emergency ordinance amounted to a “textbook physical taking,” clearing the way for landowners to seek compensation and legal fees.
Allegiant Faces Coast-to-Coast Pilot Picket
Allegiant Air pilots represented by Teamsters Local 2118 will hold a nationwide informational picket on Tuesday, including at Destin–Fort Walton Beach Airport, as they push the airline to end negotiation delays and offer a fair contract that keeps experienced pilots from leaving.
JetBlue Expands Service to Florida Panhandle With New Flights to Destin–Fort Walton Beach Starting March 2026
JetBlue Expands Service to Florida Panhandle With New Flights to Destin–Fort Walton Beach Starting March 2026 Staff Reports November 6, 2025 9:37 am Aviation, Destin, Fort Walton Beach, Tourism, Travel In Brief: 👤 Who: JetBlue Airways, Okaloosa County Commission Chairman Paul Mixon, JetBlue Vice President Dave Jehn 🛫 What: Launching new nonstop seasonal flights to […]
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.
