Destin Vacation Abuse Ends in a Life Sentence

An Okaloosa County jury convicted Justin Andrew Busby of sexually battering a 10-year-old child, leading to a life sentence in state prison.
‘This Is About Control’: Destin Mayor Bobby Wagner speaks out on Norriego Point and state power

“What we were sold was conservation. “What we’re seeing now looks like commercialization dressed up as conservation.” Destin Mayor Bobby Wagner speaks his mind on local issues.
Critical East Pass Navigation Aids Face Urgent, High-Stakes Replacement

Congressman Jimmy Patronis announced that the U.S. Coast Guard has committed to restoring critical navigation aids at East Pass, a key gateway to the Gulf of America.
Destin Council calls for transparency after $83M land deal for Norriego Point

Destin leaders say Florida’s $83 million beach buy came with too many closed doors — and too little local say. Here’s what they’re doing to bring the deal into the sunshine.
Destin renews PAWS contract; Mary Esther hesitates amid stability concerns

Destin renewed its annual animal control contract with PAWS for $92,761, while Mary Esther delayed its decision amid doubts about the nonprofit’s financial stability and contract terms.
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.”
Okaloosa County to break ground on $16.75 million Tarpon Beach Park

City and county officials will break ground on Tarpon Beach Gulf Front Park in Destin on July 7, a $16.75 million project expanding public access to the Gulf with new amenities and free parking.
Emerald Coast Open Removes 20K+ Invasive Lionfish

Emerald Coast Open Removes 20K+ Invasive Lionfish Staff Reports May 22, 2025 8:43 am Charities and Nonprofits, Destin, Events, Fort Walton Beach, News, Okaloosa County, Wildlife In Brief: 🐠 20,502 lionfish were removed from the Gulf during the 2025 Emerald Coast Open and Lionfish Festival in Destin-Fort Walton Beach. 🎯 Deep Water Mafia 1 led […]
Experts Say THIS Will Bring BIG $ to Okaloosa, But Commissioners Just Pulled it From Their Annual Wishlist

The Okaloosa County Commission voted unanimously to remove a $1.5 million funding request for the sinking of the historic SS United States as an artificial reef off Destin from its legislative priorities, citing economic concerns and public optics despite projections of significant tourism revenue.
Psychadelic Vibes in Niceville: Berlioz’s Symphony Set to Dazzle For Halloween Season

Step into the haunting, opium-fueled world of Hector Berlioz’s “Symphonie Fantastique” as the Northwest Florida Symphony Orchestra kicks off its season with a Halloween concert that’s sure to dazzle Niceville’s music lovers!