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.
Fatal DUI Crash Ends in Conviction Nearly Three Years Later
A jury has convicted Benjamin David Raser of DUI Manslaughter and DUI Causing Serious Bodily Injury in connection with a 2023 Fort Walton Beach crash that killed Demetrius Thomas and left Garrett LeBlanc permanently disabled. Prosecutors say Raser was speeding and had a blood alcohol level more than twice the legal limit.
Okaloosa County may help fund animal control using surtax funds
The Okaloosa County Surtax Committee voted to advance a proposal that would use $600,000 in tourism surtax funds to help pay for animal control services. County officials say the funding would support a scaled-back “Animal Control Light” program after PAWS ends its contract with the county this fall.
‘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.
Don’t Throw It Away Yet: Free Pickup Returns to Fort Walton Beach
Fort Walton Beach residents will have two opportunities to clean up their homes this August through free bulky-item pickup and a one-day tire collection event. The city is encouraging residents to take advantage of the annual programs to safely dispose of unwanted household items and old tires.
Okaloosa County reconsiders funding for district School Resource Officers
Okaloosa County commissioners are reviewing their long-standing agreement to split School Resource Officer costs with the school district after officials said state Safe Schools funding may have shifted the financial burden heavily onto county taxpayers. The board plans to review seven years of funding data before deciding whether changes are needed.
From 5K to Benefit Concert: Ground Up Project Expands Mission
The Ground Up Project is gearing up for a busy fall with multiple fundraising events designed to support adults with autism while encouraging volunteers and community involvement.
One Flight Will Help Save Hundreds More Cats at Fort Walton Beach Shelter
SOCKS will fly 110 cats from Fort Walton Beach to Maryland, creating shelter space while giving more animals a chance at adoption.
Tropical Depression 2 likely to become Tropical Storm Bertha; minimal impact expected for FL Panhandle
Tropical Depression 2 is expected to strengthen into Tropical Storm Bertha while remaining offshore of the Florida Panhandle. Okaloosa County remains under a Tropical Storm Watch, though officials say impacts should be limited to heavy rain, gusty winds, dangerous surf and possible minor coastal flooding through Tuesday.
Destin councilwoman arrested after allegedly driving stranger’s truck from boat ramp
A Destin City Councilwoman is facing a criminal charge after police say she entered and drove a stranger’s truck without permission at a city boat ramp on July 4. Mayor Pro Tem Teresa Hebert was arrested on a charge of trespassing on conveyance. The case remains under investigation.
