News

Gulfarium Offers 2025 Resident Pass For Purchase in October Only

For a limited time only, from Oct. 1-31, you can secure your 2025 Resident Pass for $64.99 and enjoy unlimited visits* to Gulfarium throughout the upcoming year and the rest of this year! But hurry—this fall-exclusive offer is only available until Oct. 31!*Blackout dates apply: November 23, 2024 - December 1, 2024; December 26, 2024 - January 3, 2025; March 15 - April 6; May 24 - September 1; November 22 - November 30. Passes are valid from the date of purchase until December 20, 2025.Claim your pass

Warren Averett's Branden Crosby Participates in Leadership Northwest Florida Program

Branden Crosby, CPA, is a Member in Warren Averett's Tax Division, has been selected to participate in Leadership Northwest Florida’s Class III.  Leadership Northwest Florida is an educational program offered to industry leaders that helps them grow their knowledgebase, networks and skillsets. This year’s class is composed of 17 participants from a variety of backgrounds.  Class III participants will be immersed in a seven-month educational program focused on regional collaboration. They will meet other

Eco Clean Marine Leads Successful Trash Pickup at Fort Morgan Fire Station One

Eco Clean Marine brought the community together in a remarkable effort to keep our beaches clean this past weekend at Fort Morgan Fire Station One. In just one hour, 112 enthusiastic volunteers managed to collect a staggering 400 5-gallon buckets of trash, helping protect marine life and preserve our beautiful coastline. The event, organized by Eco Clean Marine, saw families, friends, and eco-warriors from all over the area gather for a fun and impactful Saturday morning. Armed with gloves, buckets, and

Destin-Fort Walton Beach and the SS United States Conservancy Take First Step Toward World's Largest Artificial Reef

Destin-Fort Walton Beach, Florida, and the SS United States Conservancy announced today that the Okaloosa County Board of County Commissioners has approved a contingent contract to acquire the SS United States that could see the historic ocean liner converted into the world’s largest artificial reef. Part of the deal would also include funding from the county to support the Conservancy’s establishment of an innovative landbased museum that will provide divers, local residents and visitors an opportunity to

Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Destin Offers Chamber Members 30% Off Meeting Room Rates

Learn more about the Marriott Elite Experience here.

A Call for Festival of the Arts Volunteers

  Greetings Fabulous Volunteers! It's time for the 29th annual Festival of the Arts! We are looking forward to an amazing weekend of spectacular art, music, comradery and FOOD! We could not present this fantastic festival without the help of MANY volunteers. Stephanie Shea is our 2024 volunteer coordinator., you can reach her at sshea@boemortgage.com or call/text her at 850-217-2833 with any questions. She will also be your day(s) of event point of contact, so please give her a courtesy call or text

Family Bay Day 2024 Brings Community Together to Celebrate Choctawhatchee Bay's Natural Beauty

The Choctawhatchee Basin Alliance (CBA), in partnership with the Choctawhatchee Bay Estuary Program and with financial support from the Mattie Kelly Environmental Initiative through the Northwest Florida State College Foundation, successfully hosted Family Bay Day at Fred Gannon Rocky Bayou State Park on Saturday, September 28, 2024. Over 450 attendees gathered to celebrate the beauty and ecological significance of the Choctawhatchee Bay.  The event was a resounding success. It offered activities and

A Superior Air Conditioning Company Introduces the Ecobee Thermostat

A Superior Air Conditioning Company is a team of local experts that truly care about each and every person living in Northwest Florida. Our service before self-commitment is well established with over 23 years of hard work and continual giving back. Our consumer incentive plans are designed to provide even more care to Veterans, First-Responders and you. It’s all about looking after the communities we live, work and play in. It’s all about looking after you with exceptional care and never giving up on a

Food For Thought 2023-2024 Annual Report

For more information, or to view the report, click HERE.

Okaloosa County Public Library Cooperative Helps Over 50 Adults Earn High School Diplomas

The Okaloosa County Public Library Cooperative (OCPLC) is proud to announce the successful graduation of 52 students from the Career Online High School program over a five-year period. The program seeks to help adults achieve their high school diploma despite many obstacles they have encountered in their lives. Individuals who participate in Career Online High School are stay-at-home moms, working parents and business owners with dreams of bettering their life through education. Their high school education

Shane Moody Named State Chamber Association's Executive of the Year

The Florida Association of Chamber Professionals (FACP) awarded Destin Chamber President & CEO Shane A. Moody (right), CCE, FCCP, with its prestigious Executive of the Year Award, during the organization’s Annual Conference, held September 24-25, 2024, at the Boca Raton Marriott at Boca Center in Boca Raton, FL. The award was presented by FACP Chair-Elect Noel Martinez, President & CEO of the Palm Beach North Chamber of Commerce.  The award recognizes a chamber executive who has made outstanding

Learn More About Destin City Council Candidates at October 1 Forum

Hear from the candidates for Destin City Council, during an Oct. 1 Candidates Forum Sponsored by the Destin Chamber and Emerald Coast Association of Realtors.  The forum format will include opening and closing statements from each candidate. There will be a series of questions from the Destin Chamber and ECAR.  Chamber Chairman of the Board Christian Carlee and ECAR's Director of Government Affairs Melissa Garza will be the moderators.  Questions from the Chamber and ECAR will rotate throughout the forum. 

Share With A Veteran & First Responder - Free Appreciation Luncheon!

The Barrett School Combines STEM, Outdoor Activities & Play Theory to Inspire Pre-K Through 12th Grade Students

On Sept. 20, The Barrett School celebrated its grand opening with a ribbon cutting. The Barrett School's mission is to cultivate a diverse community of learners, from Pre-K through 12th grade, by harnessing the power of hands-on STEM education, integrated with play theory and the boundless classroom of the outdoors.  Embracing both atypical and neurotypical students, The Barrett School commits to nurturing curious, innovative and empathetic minds prepared to thrive in both the natural world and the

Veterans & First Responders Free Appreciation Luncheon

Florida Ranks #1 in Education Freedom for Third Year in a Row

Today, the Heritage Foundation announced that Florida ranks #1 in Education Freedom for the third year in a row. This achievement is a direct result of Florida’s priorities to expand school choice, support parental rights in education, and ensure that families can make the best educational choice for their individual child. The Education Freedom Report Card began in 2022, and Florida has earned the top ranking every year since its inception.  “Florida has enacted policies that allow parents to direct where

Okaloosa County School District Releases 2023-2024 Annual Report Highlighting Educational Excellence

The Okaloosa County School District is proud to present its 2023-2024 Annual Report, which comprehensively looks at its remarkable achievements and ongoing commitment to educational excellence. As an A+ school district, the report highlights the accomplishments of our students, teachers, staff, and administrators, reflecting a shared dedication to fostering academic success and preparing future leaders. It also showcases key milestones in safety, modern innovation, continuous learning, and community

LuLu’s Restaurant Group Announces New Corporate President & COO, Johnny Fisher

Lucy Buffett, founder, and owner of LuLu’s restaurants with locations in Gulf Shores, AL, Destin, FL and North Myrtle Beach, SC, announces Johnny Fisher as the new President and COO. A native of Mobile, AL, Fisher has a long-time impressive background in the restaurant industry, including being the General Manager of LuLu’s in Gulf Shores from 2005 to 2012. “I am thrilled to have Johnny Fisher take the helm of LuLu’s,” commented Lucy Buffett. “There is no question that he was responsible for putting our

Okaloosa County Board Chairman Paul Mixon Appointed to Multiple FAC Committees

Okaloosa County Board Chairman Paul Mixon was recently appointed to serve as a policy leader in Florida Association of Counties’ (FAC) Health, Safety & Justice and Agriculture & Rural Affairs policy committees. FAC’s policy committees are responsible for proposing, debating and adopting policy positions that focus on improving and preserving home rule of Florida’s counties. “I am honored to have the opportunity to serve as Okaloosa County’s representative to help guide public policy at the state level,”

Cumulus Media Rocker 99ROCK/99.5 WKSM-FM Brings Stroke Mastro to Mornings in Fort Walton Beach, FL, as On-Air Host of “The Morning Movement” With Taryn Driggers

Cumulus Media (NASDAQ: CMLS) announces that it has appointed Stroke Mastro as On-Air Host, Mornings, 99ROCK/99.5 WKSM -FM in Fort Walton Beach, FL. Mastro joins Taryn Driggers on “The Morning Movement” Monday through Friday from 6-10 a.m., for the Emerald Coast’s destination morning wake-up show. Mastro was most recently heard as a five-year cast member of “That Damn Show” on Audacy Rock station, 98 Rock/KRXQ-FM in Sacramento, CA. Prior to that, Mastro spent 13 years at Magic Broadcasting Rock station

Melissa Read Honored as Destin Chamber’s Business Person of the Quarter

During the Destin Chamber’s Sept. 18 Tourism & Hospitality Lunch, Melissa Read, General Manager of the Destin-Fort Walton Beach Convention Center, was honored with the Chamber’s Business Person of the Quarter Award. This award is presented directly from the Chamber’s Board of Directors to a Destin area businessperson showing vision for his or her business and leadership in our community.  “Melissa has done a great job turning around the direction of the convention center. She’s been willing to work with

10th Annual Eggs On the Beach Cooking Competition Partners with Tony Chachere’s Seasonings and Angel’s Envy To Bring More Options to 2024 Event

The Emerald Coast’s official Big Green Egg EggFest cooking competition, Eggs on the Beach is celebrating its 10th Anniversary on Nov. 2, and is partnering with two well-known brands—Tony Chachere’s Seasonings and Angel’s Envy—to enhance the cooking competition. Presented by Bay Breeze Patio, the beloved annual event will include more categories for cook teams to compete, and more opportunities for tasters to sample delicious bites and beverages. Held at Seascape Towne Center in Miramar Beach, cook teams

CALM Furniture Resale/Decor Store Now Accepting Christmas Items

Step One Niceville Kicks Off Spotlight Charity of the Month Campaign with $500 Donation to Sharing & Caring

Step One Niceville has launched its Spotlight Charity of the Month Campaign to support local nonprofit organizations. The campaign kicked off with a $500 donation to Sharing & Caring of Niceville, a nonprofit focused on providing food and assistance to those in need. The donation was presented on Aug. 28 as part of Step One's ongoing commitment to giving back to the communities it serves. Sharing & Caring was selected as the inaugural organization for the Spotlight Charity of the Month Campaign, featuring

Newman-Dailey Resort Properties, Inc. Honors Second Quarter Real Estate Top Producers, Diane Green and Mark DeSalvo

Newman-Dailey Resort Properties, Inc. is delighted to announce the recognition of two outstanding real estate professionals for their performance in the 2nd Quarter of 2024. Diane Green has been named the Top Sales Agent, and Mark DeSalvo earned the title of Top Listing Agent. Both agents have demonstrated unparalleled dedication and expertise, solidifying their status as leaders in the Emerald Coast real estate market. Diane Green’s real estate career spans 39 years, during which she has been instrumental

Read the September 2024 Issue of Destin Life

2024 Honorary Commanders Selection

Congratulations to those selected for the 2024 Honorary Commanders Program at Eglin Air Force Base! 96th Test Wing, BG MassaroBernard Johnson 96th Test Wing Vice Commander, Col TauerBarbra Britt 96th Operations Group, Col BryantJames Hale 96th Mission Support Group, Col HagemyerKelly Jasen 96th Civil Engineering Group, Col Michelle "Lindsey" SterlingDavid Butler 96th Maintenance Group, Col MorelandRocky Hudson 96th Cyberspace Test Group, Col HoffmanAmanda Negron 96th Medical Group, Col BroughTodd

Read the September 2024 Issue of VIP Destin Magazine

Hello Frances Podcast: Let it Change You - The Fight Against Normal

This week on the Hello Frances Podcast, Shantelle shares a deeply personal story about the profound impact of losing her grandfather, Roy. She opens up about feeling adrift in the wake of his passing and discusses her choice to stop struggling to return to the "normal" she once knew. Instead, she is embracing the reality that this significant loss has changed her. Join us for a heartfelt conversation on grief, healing, and navigating life’s most transformative moments.Listen now.

Tenth Annual Signature Event, Houndfest X, to Benefit Alaqua Animal Refuge

Idyll Hounds Brewing Company’s signature event, Houndfest X, will take place Thursday - Saturday, September 26 - 28 with proceeds benefiting Alaqua Animal Refuge.   To kick off the signature event, Idyll Hounds Brewing Company is partnering with Back Beach Barbecue for a VIP dining experience on Thursday, September 26 from 6-9 p.m. at the brewery. Attendees will get an exclusive preview of a few select Houndfest releases and have the opportunity to mix and mingle with brew masters that will be featured

Okaloosa County School District STEMM Academy Student Recognized Among Top 300 Junior Innovators

Okaloosa County School District Celebrates the Grand Opening of Lewis School's New Football Stadium

Cultural Arts Alliance of Walton County Announces Installation of 10 Murals In U.S. Highway 98 Pedestrian Underpass

The Cultural Arts Alliance of Walton County (CAA) is proud to announce that original murals commissioned and created by 10 local artists were recently installed on the walls of Walton County’s first pedestrian underpass at U.S. Highway 98 in Inlet Beach, which opened to the public over Labor Day weekend. The 136-foot-long underpass frames the east end of Walton County at the high-traffic corner of Hwy. 98 and County Hwy. 30A, both designated scenic corridors.   The installation includes artworks by

Curaleaf Offers Premium Medical Marijuana Products in Destin

On Sept. 5, Curaleaf celebrated its grand opening with a ribbon cutting. Curaleaf is dedicated to providing premium, safe and reliable medical marijuana products to its customers. The store is located at the entrance to Kelly Plantation next to Sleep Number. For more information, hours of operation, product list, and more, visit https://curaleaf.com/shop/florida/curaleaf-dispensary-destin.

Warren Averett Makes Accounting Today's Best Accounting Firms To Work For 2024 List

Warren Averett CPAs and Advisors has been named the top firm in the large firm category (250+ employees) on Accounting Today’s 2024 Best Accounting Firms To Work For list for the third consecutive year.  This list celebrates leading employers within the accounting profession. Accounting Today partners with Best Companies Group to conduct anonymous employee surveys and rank companies based on workplace policies, practices, philosophies, systems and demographics. The combined scores determine the top

Sinfonia Gulf Coast Presents A New Offering Luminescence: Catalyst By Candlelight at Seaside Chapel

Sinfonia Gulf Coast ignites its 2024-2025 season with Luminescence: Catalyst by Candlelight, a captivating concert featuring the Grammy Award-winning Catalyst Quartet on Thursday, Nov. 7 at 7:30 p.m. This intimate evening of classical music will illuminate the architecturally stunning Seaside Chapel in the Town of Seaside. A diverse program called Intersections will include three pieces by Paquito D’Rivera, Catalyst Quartet’s arrangement of Astor Piazzolla’s Suite del Angel, George Gershwin’s Lullaby and

Jan Hayse Promoted to President of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Beach Properties of Florida

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Beach Properties of Florida proudly announces the promotion of Jan Hayse to President. Hayse, who previously served as Chief Operating Officer, will now take on an expanded leadership role overseeing all aspects of the brokerage’s operations across Northwest Florida. “Jan has been a driving force behind our company’s success for over a decade,” said Hunter Harman, Founding Partner at Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Beach Properties of Florida. “Her promotion to President is

11th Annual Stock the Pantry Party Is A Success

Food For Thought thanks the dedicated teams and generous sponsors for making the 11th Annual Stock the Pantry Party a success!  More than 37,000 food items were donated and more than $35,000 was raised.

Gulf Coast Sexual Assault Program Seeking Volunteers

Gulf Coast Sexual Assault Program is seeking 18 volunteers to provide a direct service for its victims. A direct service can include things like yoga therapy, art therapy, support group, equine therapy, going through our donation closet and packing bags for our advocates to take victims at the hospital exams, financial literacy class, etc. Service can be as little as one hour of your time.  The direct service volunteer will have to fill out the Level 2 and/or 3 paperwork and follow the procedures. Download

Tickets for Sinfonia Gulf Coast's Stellar 2024-2025 Season On Sale Now

Eco Clean Marine Makes a Splash with Trash Pick-Up at Sharky's Beachfront Restaurant

Eco Clean Marine took to the sands of Panama City Beach this past weekend, proving once again that teamwork and a passion for the environment can turn a sunny Saturday into a fun and fulfilling adventure. Our destination? The iconic Sharky's Beachfront Restaurant, where the mission was simple: pick up trash, save marine life, and have a great time doing it! With the Gulf of Mexico as our backdrop, six enthusiastic volunteers joined forces for one hour of dedicated trash collecting. Armed with nothing but

NWFSC Foundation Hosted its Annual Board Installation and Recognition Ceremony

The Northwest Florida State College Foundation held its Annual Board Installation and Recognition Reception on Thursday, August 22, 2024, to welcome new Foundation directors, recognize new officers, thank outgoing directors, and highlight some of the Foundation’s many accomplishments within the last year. Alan Wood, 2023-2024 Foundation Board Chair, recognized the Foundation’s two outgoing board members, Dr. Bo Arnold, past Foundation Board Chair; and Gordon King, Chief Executive Officer at Okaloosa Gas

Destin Methodist Church Offers GriefShare and DivorceCare Support Groups to the Community

GriefShare is a friendly, caring group of people who will walk alongside you through one of life's most difficult experiences. You don't have to go through the grieving process alone. GriefShare seminars and support groups are led by people who understand what you are going through and want to help. We look forward to helping you and your family and loved ones get through the loss of your family member or friend. This group meets every Thursday from 1 - 3 p.m., through Oct. 31, 2024.DivorceCare is a safe

Hello Frances Podcast: Stepping Away - Balancing Business and Life's Major Moments

This week on the Hello Frances Podcast, Shantelle delves into a deeply personal topic: the emotional and practical aspects of stepping away from your business to honor significant family events. Don’t miss this candid discussion filled with practical advice and personal reflections.Listen now.

Junior League of the Emerald Coast Hosts the Second Annual Toast on the Coast to Benefit the Child Clothing Project

The Junior League of the Emerald Coast (JLEC) will host their second annual Toast on the Coast fundraising event on Friday and Saturday, September 27-28, at Henderson Beach Resort to benefit a great cause while enjoying culinary delights from participating vendors.  Proceeds from Toast on the Coast will go to benefit the Junior League of the Emerald Coast's mission and help support their community impact projects such as the Child Clothing Project which annually clothes 300-400 children in Okaloosa and

The Thirty Second Annual Emerald Coast National Juried Fine Art Exhibition

Mattie Kelly Art Center Galleries at Northwest Florida State College presents the Thirty-Second Annual Emerald Coast National (ECN) Juried Fine Art Exhibition! This year's Emerald Coast National includes work by eighteen artists. Artists represented in the 2024 ECN tend to be either emerging artists or established teaching art faculty nationwide. The Emerald Coast National began regionally, and this year's show includes several Florida artists. This year's guest judge was Sarah Knobel, Professor of Art

Get Back to Passionate, Purposeful Life with GameDay Men’s Health-Destin

On Aug. 22, GameDay Men’s Health-Destin celebrated its grand opening with a ribbon cutting. GameDay Men's Health can help get your testosterone levels back to what they should be, so you can live your passionate, purposeful life. Enjoy free TRT tests, no contracts, man cave offices, and more.  For more information, visit GameDayMensHealth.com/destin or call (850) 250-1201. The new location is inside Regatta Commons at 4477 Legendary Dr. Ste. 201, in Destin.

Read the August 2024 Issue of Destin Life

Northwest Florida State College Energy Program Earns Best-In-Class Award

A dedicated 10 year-long effort to create healthier, more efficient buildings not only paid off financially for Northwest Florida State College but is earning industry recognition for setting an example for others to follow.   Northwest Florida State College has cut expected energy use by 61.9 percent since partnering with Cenergistic, the pioneer and leading provider of technology-enabled conservation services, which presented the NWFSC Board of Trustees its Cenergistic Best-In-Class Award on August

Vitas Healthcare Opens In-Patient Destin Location

On Aug. 20, Vitas Healthcare celebrated its new Destin location with a ribbon cutting. VITAS Healthcare offers in-patient and out-patient hospice care, pain and symptom management, and psychosocial support. Its hospice care experts are available 24/7 to answer questions and provide support. The Destin location is at 195 Mattie Kelly Blvd., in the rear of the Destination Health and Rehabilitation building. There is also a nearby Niceville location at 4576 E. Hwy. 20, in Bluewater Bay. For more

Call for Student Artists: Participate in the 2024 Art Show at the Northwest Florida Fair

The Arts & Design Society (ADSO) is excited to announce the upcoming Student Art Show, open to high school, middle school, and elementary school students from Northwest Florida. This event is a fantastic opportunity for young artists to showcase their creativity and compete for cash prizes. Registration will be Friday, September 20, 11 AM – 4 PM or Saturday, September 21, 9 AM – 12 PM.   *No late entries will be accepted.   Reception and Awards Presentation will be on Sunday, September 22, 2 PM – 4 PM,

Destin Sport Clips is Award-Winning

Sport Clips leaders and managers from all over the United States and Canada (1,800 stores) met in Nashville, Tenn., recently to celebrate the National Huddle 2024 Conference and National Awards.    The Sport Clips teams met with industry favorites, educators and enjoyed celebrations with THE LOOK contest and BATTLE OF THE HAIR Contest. The Destin Sport Clips Store received the acclaimed CHAIRMANS CLUB award for attaining top performance in all areas of performance, PRO Stylist metrics, and client

Okaloosa County School District Announces Graduation Dates for the Class of 2025

Mark Your Calendars! The Okaloosa County School District is thrilled to announce the graduation dates, times, and locations for the Class of 2025. For those unable to attend in person, we’ve got you covered—these special events will be live-streamed. Stay tuned for streaming links, which will be available in May!

Stay Connected with the Okaloosa County School District: Two Essential Apps

Are you staying informed about the latest news from the Okaloosa County School District? Parents and guardians can easily access their student's schedule, grades, and attendance by downloading the FOCUS App. Additionally, stay updated with school and district news, events, documents, and emergency notifications through the OCSD Apptegy App. Both apps are available for download on the Apple App Store and Google Play. For more information, visit www.okaloosaschools.com.

Community Comes Together for Students: Nine Schools, 90 Volunteers, and 540 Volunteer Hours

In a display of community spirit, 90 dedicated volunteers successfully prepared nine schools in the Okaloosa County School District (OCSD) for the 2024-2025 academic year. The collective effort, totaling 540 volunteer hours, underscores a strong partnership between the district and local organizations, ensuring an enriched educational environment for students. Volunteers from HCA Florida Fort Walton-Destin Hospital, Eglin Federal Credit Union, Florida Power and Light, and Hurlburt Field Air Force Base were

ECCAC announces Serena Campbell as new CFO

The Emerald Coast Children’s Advocacy Center (ECCAC) announced they have a new Chief Financial Officer (CFO) on their staff, Serena Campbell.     Lee Curtis, ECCAC’s Director of Development commented, “We are so glad to have Serena on board with us, this is the first time over the years that we have hired a CFO. She is professionally qualified, has an excellent background, and is well suited for her new position.”   Born in Tampa, FL, Serena Campbell was a military child who relocated with her

HCA Florida Fort Walton-Destin Hospital Announces Patrick McVey as Chief Operating Officer

HCA Florida Fort Walton-Destin Hospital has announced the appointment of Patrick C. McVey, MBA, BSN, RN, as chief operating officer.  McVey, whose new role was effective June 24, comes to the hospital with a distinguished background in healthcare management. Most recently, he served as regional vice president for HCA Healthcare's North Florida and South Atlantic divisions, where he oversaw patient logistics including behavioral health, centralized patient placement, transfer center operations, and

HCA Florida Fort Walton-Destin Hospital was honored with the 2022 Excellence for Maternal Care Award

HCA Florida Fort Walton-Destin Hospital has been presented the 2022 Excellence for Maternal Care Awards from the Florida Department of Health and the Florida Agency for Health Care Administration. This award, given to 31 hospitals across the state, recognizes those facilities demonstrating a commitment to maternal health care and supporting health outcomes for mothers and newborns.    These awards recognize hospitals surpassing the Healthy People 2030 target goal of 23.6% for optimizing cesarean section

SmartBank Earns 2024 Great Place to Work Certification

SmartBank is proud to announce that we have been Certified™ by Great Place To Work® for the first time this year. This prestigious recognition is based entirely on what our associates say about their experience working at SmartBank. This year, 94% of our associates said SmartBank is a great place to work—significantly higher than the average U.S. company. You can view our profile on the Great Place To Work® website here.  Great Place To Work® is the global authority on workplace culture, employee

Four Endangered Sea Turtles Released Back into the Gulf by Gulfarium CARE Center at Inlet Beach

Today, Gulfarium CARE Center, a leading organization in Florida for rescuing and rehabilitating bycatch endangered sea turtles, celebrated the release of four rehabilitated sea turtles at Inlet Beach Regional Access. The event drew a diverse crowd of beachgoers, volunteers, sea turtle advocates, and school students who came to witness this remarkable marine conservation effort. The Gulfarium CARE Center, based in the Destin-Fort Walton area, regularly conducts releases at locations like Inlet Beach to

Hello Frances Podcast: Permission to Pass: It's Okay to Say No to Giving Advice

This week on the Hello Frances Podcast, our host Shantelle Dedicke discusses the importance of knowing when to give advice and when to abstain, particularly when you don’t feel qualified. She shares her recent reflections on being more selective and deliberate with her guidance, explaining how advice can sometimes hinder others from finding their own way. Tune in to hear more about her insights on this delicate balance!Listen now.

Okaloosa County School District Encourages All Families to Apply for Free or Reduced School Meals for the 2024-25 School Year

As the new school year begins on August 12th, we invite ALL families to apply for Free or Reduced School Meals by visiting www.myschoolapps.com. Even if your family was approved for Free or Reduced meals last year, you must reapply for the 2024-25 school year. A 30-day grace period will be in effect, but it's crucial to complete your application as soon as possible. Why should ALL families apply, even if you think you might not be eligible? Because you might be surprised—many families qualify without

Superintendent Marcus Chambers Welcomes Students and Families Back to the 2024 – 2025 School Year

Hello Students and Parents, I hope this letter finds you in good health and high spirits. As we embark on another exciting academic year, I want to extend a heartfelt welcome to each and every one of you. Whether you’re returning students or new faces, we’re thrilled to have you as part of our Okaloosa County family. Having been an educator for over two decades, I understand the importance of creating a nurturing and supportive environment for our students. As a parent myself, I share your hopes and dreams

Okaloosa County Takes Major Step Toward New Shoal River Ranch Water Reclamation Facility

Okaloosa County has taken a major step forward in expanding wastewater treatment capacity for future north Okaloosa needs, by issuing an “Intent to Award” to J&P Construction Co. to construct the Shoal River Ranch Water Reclamation Facility (SRRWRF). J&P Construction was found to be the lowest responsive bidder, following a competitive sealed bid. “The need and demand for sewer services for north Okaloosa residents and businesses continues to grow,” said Okaloosa County Board Chairman Paul Mixon. “The

Sinfonia Gulf Coast Announces Open Registration for 2024-2025 Music Education Programs

Sinfonia Gulf Coast is excited to announce that registration is now open for the 2024-2025 Music Education programs. As the only program affiliated with a professional orchestra in the Emerald Coast region, the Sinfonia Youth Orchestra (SYO) offers student musicians unparalleled opportunities to enhance their musical talents and perform in a variety of ensembles throughout the school year under the mentorship of professional musicians. Programs include the Symphonic Orchestra, for intermediate to advanced

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwest Florida Welcomes New Governing Board of Directors Leadership

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwest Florida is thrilled to announce our new Governing Board of Directors leadership. We are proud to have a compassionate and dedicated group of individuals who are committed to doing whatever it takes to help change children's lives for the better and with their guidance, we are confident we will continue to thrive and reach new heights. Our staff is eager to work alongside this exceptional team to set and achieve our goals for the coming fiscal year and beyond. Please

Alaqua Animal Refuge Hosts Animoré Weekend Featuring the Bluegrass Barn Jam

Alaqua Animal Refuge is thrilled to announce the return of the Animoré Weekend with the exciting addition of the Bluegrass Barn Jam! This vibrant event, set for Saturday, Sept. 21, 2024, promises to be an unforgettable day of music, community, and support for animal welfare. The Bluegrass Barn Jam features an outstanding lineup of nationally and regionally recognized Bluegrass acts, set to perform across multiple stages on the beautiful and expansive Alaqua property. Music enthusiasts and animal lovers

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Artist Kelly Pierre Named 2024 Festival of the Arts Poster Contest Winner

Sinfonia Gulf Coast Launches Stellar 2024-2024 Season

Entering its 19th season, Sinfonia Gulf Coast continues its tradition of "redefining" the symphony experience. Led by Music & Artistic Director Demetrius Fuller, the region’s only fully professional symphony orchestra aims to entertain, educate, and inspire the Northwest Florida Gulf coast. Sinfonia is elated to present a sensational lineup of concerts for the 2024-2025 season. From the revolutionary talents of Grammy award-winning composer and harmonica player and pianist Howard Levy, to the powerhouse

Northwest Florida State College Invites Stakeholders to Participate in the Presidential Search

Northwest Florida State College invites the College community throughout Okaloosa and Walton Counties to provide feedback on the next president of the College. Alongside meetings scheduled for students, faculty, and staff, the College encourages community leaders and members of the public to attend town halls and complete a survey as the Board of Trustees kicks off the presidential search. Two Town Hall meetings will be open to the public in August: On Monday, August 12, 2024, at 5 p.m., join the College

Okaloosa County School District Transportation Department Announces 2024-2025 School Bus Schedule

The Okaloosa County School District Transportation Department has released the bus routes for the 2024-2025 school year. Families and guardians can easily find their students' bus routes by visiting Bus Routes. In addition, the district is excited to introduce Bus Bulletin, a notification system designed to keep parents informed of any unexpected delays or schedule changes affecting their student’s bus. Understanding the importance of student safety and punctuality, this system provides timely updates to

Bit-Wizards Earns #5 Spot on Top 100 Best Companies List

Bit-Wizards was recently named one of Florida's Best Companies To Work For for its 15th consecutive year. The annual Best Companies To Work For In Florida list featured in the August issue of Florida Trend magazine ranks 100 companies in small, medium, and large employer categories.   "We're so excited to be named to the Florida Trend Best Workplaces list for the 15th year in a row! Our company culture is vital to our success, and we live our core values daily. This recognition shows our team's fantastic

TalkingParents Ranks #3 on Top 100 Best Companies List

TalkingParents was recently named one of Florida's Best Small Companies To Work For, landing a top 5 accolade in its inaugural year on the list. The annual Best Companies To Work For In Florida list featured in the August issue of Florida Trend magazine ranks 100 companies in small, medium, and large employer categories.    "We are thrilled and honored to receive our first Florida Trends Best Workplaces award! Our dedication to our core values and employees has created a wonderful work culture. Everyone

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwest Florida Hosts Annual Fenner Ride Cycling Event

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwest Florida, along with the West Florida Wheelmen Bicycle Club, present the annual Fenner Ride on Oct. 26, 2024. This cycling event gives riders a unique chance to experience Northwest Florida's native wildlife, natural environments, and beautiful scenery along the Blackwater Heritage Trail. The ride will start at 7:30 a.m. the Clyde L. Gracey Community Center, located at 5629 Byrom St. Milton, Fla. Participants of all skill levels will have the opportunity to choose the

HighSpeedInternet.com Rates Cox the Fastest U.S. Broadband Provider

In its recently released 2024 annual review, HighSpeedInternet.com (HSI) ranked Cox as the fastest ISP in the nation based on average download speeds for all of 2023. Cox claimed the top spot by delivering average year-long download speeds of 238 Mbps across the country, a full 10 Mbps ahead of its nearest competitor.  “As consumers continue to introduce more connected devices in their homes, the need for fast fiber-powered broadband becomes increasingly important,” said David Deliman, Cox’s Gulf Coast

Community Non-profits Invited to Enter a Cook Team in Eggs on the Beach Big Green Egg Cooking Competition

Bay Breeze Patio will host the 10th Annual “Eggs on the Beach” EggFest Grilling Competition, Nov. 2, at Seascape Resort in Miramar Beach. To enhance the grilling competition, Bay Breeze Patio is waiving the registration fee for non-profit cook teams. Grill masters are invited to register a team to benefit a designated charity, and compete for a chance to win a cash donation toward the cause. The non-profit team with the most “Taster” votes will earn the title of “best bite” and a $3,500 donation. “The

Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation Announces Call for the 29th Annual Festival of the Arts Collaborative Art Exhibit

Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation (MKAF) is now accepting applications for the Adult Collaborative Art Exhibit component of the 29th annual Festival of the Arts (Friday, Oct. 25 (Arty Kick Off Party at Henderson Beach Resort in Destin) Oct. 26-27 (Festival weekend)) at the Mattie Kelly Cultural Arts Village in Destin, Florida. One of the unique features of MKAF’s Festival of the Arts is the Collaborative Art Exhibit, which showcases the work of seasoned and emerging adult artists and local student artists

Okaloosa County School District Hosts Kindergarten Kickstart for Students 2024

The first day of kindergarten often brings a blend of excitement, confusion, and anxiety for young students. Successful transitions from preschool to kindergarten depend on strong connections between schools and families and between preschool and kindergarten teachers. The Okaloosa County School District offers various activities to support this transition, including the "Kindergarten Kickstart" program at ten Title I schools. This initiative allows incoming kindergarteners to enter the classroom before

A Wave of Clean Fun at Gulf Shores Trash Pickup Event

This past weekend, the parking lot on the east side of The Hangout in Gulf Shores buzzed with energy and community spirit as Eco Clean Marine teamed up with Alabama Young Professionals for a trash pick-up event that combined fun, hard work, and a deep commitment to the environment. 45 enthusiastic volunteers rolled up their sleeves and got to work, making the most of their two-hour mission to keep our beloved waterways clean. Armed with 113 five-gallon buckets, they scoured the area and collected an

High Humidity Combined with Higher Temps Can Lead to Life-Threatening Conditions

With elevated to significant threats of excessive heat in Florida over the next several days, doctors at local-area hospitals are bracing for an influx of patients suffering from heat exhaustion and life-threatening heat stroke.  The chief culprit? High humidity levels which, combined with rising air temperatures, create dangerously hot conditions. “We tend to set aside the dangers of heat when we don’t hear about extreme or record-breaking temperatures, but with high humidity, the heat index can sneak up

Okaloosa County Receives A Rating from the Florida Department of Education

The Florida Department of Education (FLDOE) has released school grades for the state, and the Okaloosa County School District (OCSD) has again earned an A rating for the 2023-2024 school year. OCSD earned 772 out of 1200 possible points, achieving 64% of the total possible points under a new grading scale approved by the State Board of Education. The newly approved grading scale for the 2023-24 school year establishes different criteria for elementary schools versus middle, high, and combination schools.

Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation Named Kelly Pierre As The 2024 Festival of the Arts Poster Contest Winner.

Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation (MKAF) has named Kelly Pierre of Santa Rosa Beach, Florida, the 2024 Festival of the Arts poster contest winner.  Recognized as one of Northwest Florida’s premier fine art shows, the Festival of the Arts, produced by MKAF, is one of the most anticipated cultural events of the year on the Emerald Coast. This year’s 29th annual event will kick off on Friday, Oct 25 evening with the Arty Kick Off Party at The Henderson in Destin. The Festival weekend follows on Saturday, Oct. 26,

Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation Awarded $30,000 National Grant By Emeril Lagasse Foundation

Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation (MKAF) — Northwest Florida’s champion of the arts for all abilities — recently was awarded $30,000 (one of four national grants totaling $127,000) from the Emeril Lagasse Foundation.  Founded in 2002 by Chef Emeril Lagasse and his wife Alden, Emeril Lagasse Foundation is a 501(c)(3) public charity headquartered in New Orleans. The Foundation’s mission is to create opportunities to inspire, mentor, and enable youth to reach their full potential. Since its inception, Emeril

Hello Frances Podcast: Vision Boards - The Creative Journey

On this week’s episode of the Hello Frances podcast, our host Shantelle Dedicke discusses how our team incorporates vision boards into our yearly planning and how you can use a vision board to help manifest your goals. She shares how vision boards have positively impacted our team over the years, why vision boarding is connected to personal growth and much more!Listen now.

Gameday Men's Health Opens in Destin

Gameday Men's Health is excited to announce its newest location in Destin, Florida, and invites the community to join them for a ribbon cutting with the Destin and Greater Fort Walton Beach chambers of commerce on Thursday, Aug. 22, at 4 p.m. It will be followed by an Open House from 4 - 7 p.m., at 4477 Legendary Drive, Ste. 201, Destin, FL. The Grand Opening Celebration will give guests the chance to explore the man-cave-inspired clinic, meet the team of experts, learn about all the services and

Destin Chamber Trustees Invite Local First Responders to Appreciation Cookout on Sept. 11, 2024

The Destin Chamber Trustee members are celebrating and thanking local first responders with a free cookout on Wednesday, Sept. 11. They will be grilling hamburgers and hot dogs at Destin Fire Station #9 at 848 Airport Road, in Destin, from 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. All police officers, firefighters, medical personnel, beach safety, EMS and military are invited. Trustee membership is the highest membership level in the Destin Chamber, and it shows a significant commitment to and investment in the Chamber and in

Read the July 2024 Issue of Destin Life

Sunset Shoes And Lifestyles Offers Casual, Easygoing Styles for the Entire Family

On July 18, Sunset Shoes And Lifestyles celebrated its newly expanded Destin Commons location with a ribbon cutting. Sunset Shoes opened its doors more than 20 years ago. With four locations in HarborWalk Village, Sandestin, Panama City and Destin Commons, Sunset Shoes' collection is inspired by the beautiful beaches and the relaxed environment of Destin with comfort and easygoing style as the hallmark of its shoe collections. Recently, it added apparel to its arsenal, introducing clothing and

Sponsorships Available for 2024 Sandybags Cornhole Tournament Sponsored by Rotary Club of Destin Sunset

Join the Rotary Club of Destin Sunset for the 2024 Sandybags Cornhole Tournament! This second annual event will take place on  Saturday, Sept. 14, at Als Burger and Beach Bar on Okaloosa Island. Registration starts promptly at 10 a.m., and the competition kicks off at 11 a.m. This year, all proceeds will go to benefit One Hopeful Place and support the charitable initiatives of the Rotary Club of Destin Sunset. We invite you to participate in this community-driven event and consider becoming a sponsor.

Construction begins on Historic Bridge-to-Bridge Path Containing Photoluminescent Stone

Okaloosa County officials and local leaders gathered at the entrance of John Beasley Park for a groundbreaking ceremony on Monday, July 8, 2024, to celebrate the beginning of construction for an approximate 4-mile multi-use path between Brooks Bridge and Marler (Destin) Bridge. “This new path will be transformational for the health and safety of residents and visitors looking for recreational opportunities on Okaloosa Island,” said Okaloosa County Commissioner Carolyn Ketchel. “I am so thankful to our

City of Destin 40th Birthday Bash

The City of Destin will hold a 40th Birthday Bash on Saturday, August 10th at HarborWalk Village. All are invited to the event celebrating four decades of incorporation. From 5:30-8:30 p.m., enjoy stilt walkers, live music by Tobacco Road, the City’s first drone show, fire spinning, and much more. “It’s one of those events where there should be something for everyone, no matter the age,” said Tamara Young, City of Destin Public Information Director. “Our Harbor was recently voted 2nd best in the Nation,

Big Brothers Big Sisters wins Best Non-Profit in Pensacola!

We are beyond thrilled to announce Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwest Florida has won Best Charity/Non-Profit in VIP Pensacola's 'Best in Pensacola' contest! This incredible honor wouldn't have been possible without the support of our amazing community. We would like to thank everyone who took the time to vote for us. Your belief in our mission to create and support one-to-one mentoring relationships is what makes our work so impactful. Together we are building brighter futures for our Littles. Big

Destination Health & Rehabilitation Offers State-of-the-Art Rehabilitation Therapies in Destin

On July 11, Destination Health & Rehabilitation celebrated a ribbon cutting with the Destin Chamber. Destination Health & Rehabilitation's facility is designed with style, comfort and state-of-the-art equipment and therapies to help you recover quickly. Specialty programs include, but are not limited to, Orthopedic Rehab, Cardiac Rehab, Stroke Recovery, Pulmonary Therapy, Lymphedema Therapy, Mist Therapy, Wound Care Services, Urinary Incontinence, Pain Reduction, Vestibular Therapy, and Balance

The Northwest Florida Ballet announces Season 55

The Northwest Florida Ballet (NFB) announces Season 55, a celebration of five and a half decades of excellence in performing arts, which includes Lightwire Theater’s Dino Light at Grand Boulevard and The Nutcracker and Cinderella at the Mattie Kelly Arts Center featuring live music by the Northwest Florida Symphony Orchestra (NFSO).   The 2024-2025 season begins with Lightwire Theater’s Dino Light, sponsored by Grand Boulevard’s Coastal Culture Art, Entertainment and Events on Sat., Oct. 5 at 7:30 p.m. at

Emerald Coast Theatre Company Opens Registration for 2024 Fall Educational Theatre Programs

Emerald Coast Theatre Company’s (ECTC) 2024 Fall Educational Theatre programs are bigger and better than ever. These programs provide creative and engaging classes designed especially for young thespians from elementary to high school, as well as adult classes. ECTC offers classes for Mini Players (5yrs.-1st), Little Players (2nd-3rd grade), Big Players (4th-5th grade), teens, and adults. This year, ECTC is offering Shrek the Musical, Show Choir (4th - 12th), Acting for Musical Theatre, Movie Magic Mondays,

Northwest Florida State College Announces Innovative Partnership with Territorium

Northwest Florida State College (NWFSC) is thrilled to announce a groundbreaking partnership with Territorium, a global education technology leader, to advance skills-based education and hiring practices in the region. This partnership will leverage Territorium's cutting-edge LifeJourney solution, which includes a Learning and Employment Record (LER), a skills-first digital wallet, AI-powered career pathways with job-matching technology, and a Comprehensive Learner Record (CLR) of achievement. This

Northwest Florida State College Students Selected to Florida College System Student Activities Association All-Academic Team

Northwest Florida State College (NWFSC) is proud to announce that ten of its students have been selected to join the prestigious Florida College System Student Activities Association (FCSAA) All-Academic Team. This recognition highlights the exceptional academic achievements of these students, reflecting their dedication, hard work, and commitment to excellence. The students selected for this honor are: · Abdiel Alvarado-Pabon · Joselin Cardenas · Emery DeVane · Joshua Fillion · Karissa Grant ·

Hello Frances Podcast: Building Hope - Affordable Housing with Teresa Jones

This week on the Hello Frances Podcast, our host Shantelle Dedicke is joined by Teresa Jones, Executive Director at Habitat for Humanity of Walton County. Together, they delve into the pressing issue of affordable housing in our communities. Teresa shares her deep insights and experiences, discussing the challenges faced by families and individuals in securing affordable homes, and the impactful initiatives Habitat for Humanity undertakes to address these matters. Join them as they explore practical

HCA Florida Fort Walton-Destin Hospital Celebrates 50 Years of Caring for the Community

HCA Florida Fort Walton-Destin Hospital commemorated a half-century of service to the community with a grand celebration marking its 50th anniversary. Since its founding in 1974, the hospital has stood as a pillar of healthcare excellence, evolving alongside the vibrant community it serves.  Zach McCluskey, chief executive officer at HCA Florida Fort Walton-Destin Hospital, welcomed hospital and community leaders, care team members and other guests to the milestone event. McCluskey expressed gratitude to

Boys & Girls Clubs of the Emerald Coast After-School Program Registration Is Open

Registration for our 2024-2025 after-school program is now open! All registration will take place online through our Parent Portal. Have questions? Please contact your local Club.Register here.   

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwest Florida Announces the 2024 Escambia County Big of the Year

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwest Florida proudly announces Shawn Hall as the recipient of the 2024 Escambia County Big of the Year Award. Shawn's unwavering dedication to mentorship and exceptional commitment have profoundly impacted his Little Brother, culminating in this distinguished honor. With a remarkable 30-year career in the United States Marine Corps, Shawn seamlessly transitioned from military service to mentorship, continuing to make a significant difference in the lives of others. When

Northwest Florida State College Launches Pioneering AI Initiative for Educators and Students

Recognizing the transformative potential of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in education, Northwest Florida State College (NWFSC) is excited to announce the launch of its new AI Initiative. This program, spearheaded by the Center for Innovative Teaching and Learning (CITL), aims to equip faculty and students with the knowledge and skills necessary to thrive in an AI-driven world. AI technologies are rapidly reshaping various industries, and education is no exception. With a focus on fostering innovative

Okaloosa Continues Top Ten Tradition

On Monday, July 1, 2024, the Florida Department of Education released this year’s results for the Florida Assessment of Student Thinking (FAST) and End of Course Exams. Each year, students are required to take statewide assessments in ELA grades 3-10, Mathematics grades 3-8, Algebra, Geometry, Science grades 5 and 8, Biology, Civics, and US History. A combined analysis of all test results show Okaloosa Schools continue to rank in the top ten school districts out of 67 in the state of Florida for the 2023-24

Cultural Arts Alliance Awards Grants To Walton County Teachers, Students, Artists and Organizations Through Art for All Program

The Cultural Arts Alliance of Walton County (CAA) is pleased to announce Art for All grants totaling $32,000 were recently awarded to 13 Walton County teachers, students, artists and organizations to support arts education, creative projects and further their artistic endeavors. In its decades of fostering creativity, the CAA has awarded grants totaling more than $845,000.  Thirteen Teacher Grants benefiting seven area schools, including Bay School, Freeport Elementary, Magnet Innovation Center, Seaside

Digital Graffiti Announced as CODAAwards Top 100 Finalist

Please join us in congratulating Digital Graffiti at Alys Beach on their recent selection as a top 100 finalist for the 2024 CODAAwards! In addition to DG's consideration for recognition in the Residential category (DG project profile), DG is also being considered for one of two People's Choice awards, which is based on YOUR VOTES!  Please cast your vote for Digital Graffiti by clicking HERE and scrolling down to row 7 (image of Caliza Courts, Emerging Artists Showcase). It's that easy! Voting ends just

Medical House Calls Expands Staff in Destin, Santa Rosa Beach and Panama City, To Meet Growing Demand

Medical House Calls, which opened in the Emerald Coast (Fla.) area in March, continues to add to its staff as more residents and visitors utilize their services. Sarah Watson, RN, has joined Licensed Family Nurse Practitioner Bryce Amos to provide in-home urgent care, IV services, medical weight loss consultation and more to patients in the comfort and safety of their own homes, condos and hotels.                    “Over the past few months, we’ve seen a steady increase in calls as both full-time

Check Out Hilton's Free Business Program

Hilton is offering a fantastic business program that provides exclusive benefits and discounts designed specifically for small - medium business in Destin. By signing up, you will enjoy the following: - Special rates and discounts on stays across Hilton’s extensive portfolio of hotels. - Access to Hilton Honors points, which can be redeemed for free nights, room upgrades, and other rewards. - Flexible booking policies to accommodate changing travel plans. - Dedicated support to assist with all your

Hello Frances Podcast: Spin Sucks: Gini Dietrich, Creator of the PESO Model

This week on the Hello Frances Podcast, our host Shantelle Dedicke is joined by Gini Dietrich, Founder of Spin Sucks, creator of the acclaimed PESO Model. They delve into the creation of the PESO Model, how this framework shapes effective public relations strategies, how it empowers agencies to demonstrate their impact to clients transparently, and so much more. Trust us, this is one episode you don’t want to miss!   Listen now.  

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwest Florida Announces Its 2024 Beyond School Walls Big of the Year!

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwest Florida is proud to announce Billy Merrill Eggart, Superintendent at D.R. Horton Homes, as the recipient of the 2024 Beyond School Walls Big of the Year Award. Billy's steadfast dedication to mentorship and community engagement has significantly impacted the lives of local youth, exemplifying the spirit of service and leadership. The Beyond School Walls program, through which Billy has been an extraordinary mentor, aims to empower students by providing invaluable

Carrot Top Designs is One-Stop Shop for New Builds & Remodels

On June 20, Carrot Top Designs celebrated its grand opening with a ribbon cutting. Carrot Top Designs is your one-stop shop for new builds and remodels in Destin and 30A. From cabinets and countertops to windows, flooring and fixtures, its dynamic and creative team can handle the entire project inside the drywall. The celebration continues June 21, as Carrot Top Designs hosts a grand event in its 30,000-square-foot showroom to showcase its brand and exquisite designs. Guests may indulge in complimentary

Bit-Wizards Makes Inc.’s Annual List of Best Workplaces for 2024

Bit-Wizards has been named to Inc.’s annual Best Workplaces list for the eighth year! Prominently featured on Inc.com, the list results from a comprehensive measurement of American companies that excel in creating exceptional workplaces and company cultures, whether operating in a physical or a virtual facility.   “Each year, Inc.’s Best Workplaces program recognizes the very best in terms of companies that have fostered a truly amazing culture,” says Inc. editor-in-chief Mike Hofman. “We use hard

Destin Makes Top 10 for Best U.S. Harbor

For the first time ever, Destin has made the winners list for the U.S. Best Harbor contest! The City also came in #1 for 2024's Gulf Coast winner.   "When we first heard about the contest, I couldn't enter us or promote us fast enough," said Tamara Young, Public Information Director. "If you have ever visited the Destin Harbor area, you know it deserves a top spot."  Thanks to all who voted.  1.Block Island, RI 2.Destin, FL 3.Padanaram, MA 4.Bristol, RI 5.Shelter Cove, Hilton Head, NC 6.Pillar Point,

Read the June 2024 Issue of Destin Life

Gulfarium’s Patrick Berry Honored as Destin Chamber’s Business Person of the Quarter

During the Destin Chamber’s June 14 Business Before Hours Sponsored by Holloway Yacht Charters, Patrick Berry (left), Senior Vice President/Chief Operating Officer of Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park, was honored with the Chamber’s Business Person of the Quarter Award. This award is presented directly from the Chamber’s Board of Directors to a Destin area businessperson showing vision for his or her business and leadership in our community. Berry is pictured with 2024 Chamber Chairman Christian Carlee of

Azul Mexican Fusion Offers Delicious Food with Beautiful Harbor View

On June 13, Azul Mexican Fusion celebrated its grand opening with a ribbon cutting. Azul Mexican Fusion offers Mexican + Mediterranean fusion cuisine with a beautiful view of the Destin Harbor in HarborWalk Village.  Visit the restaurant at 2 Harbor Blvd. Ste. 100A or check it out on Instagram at @azul.destin. For more information, call (850) 485-0953.  

Emerald Coast Theatre Company Presents Comedy at the Boulevard June 28

Emerald Coast Theatre Company (ECTC) and Panama City Comedy are proud to present Comedy at the Boulevard, Friday, June 28, 2024 at 7:00 p.m. Come for an uproarious night of laughs! ECTC presents some of the Southeast’s most hilarious comedians! This hysterical event will be hosted by resident funny guy Jason Hedden and features headliner Joel Byars, feature act Joey Nickel and special guests Malcolm Xavier and Scotty Jernigan.  Jason Hedden (host): Jason Hedden is an actor, director, comedian and producer

Hello Frances Podcast: Community Connections: Inside The Scout Guide with Heidi and Peyton

This week on the Hello Frances Podcast, our host Shantelle Dedicke is joined by Heidi and Peyton from the Scout Guide 30A & Destin. They discuss the upcoming launch of the second volume of their Scout Guide, share insights on how they scout people and businesses, and highlight Frances Roy's involvement in the new edition. Tune in for an engaging conversation about community connections and the excitement surrounding the Scout Guide's latest release!Listen now.

Read the June 2024 Issue of VIP Destin Magazine

Northwest Florida State College Partners with Knack to Ensure Students Have Easy Access to High-Impact Tutoring

Northwest Florida State College (NWFSC) is proud to announce a pioneering initiative in collaboration with Knack, a Florida-based peer tutoring platform. This partnership will ensure all students have access to free, on-demand tutoring starting Fall 2024.This initiative, a collaboration between NWFSC and Knack, aims to significantly enhance student retention and success. As part of this collaboration, NWFSC peer tutors will have access to training modules that comply with the College Reading & Learning

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwest Florida Announces 2024 Virginia Thomas Big of the Year in Bay County

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwest Florida proudly announces Jacqueline Crow as the recipient of the 2024 Virginia Thomas Big of the Year award in Bay County. This prestigious accolade is given to a Big who has made an exceptional difference in their Little's life, embodying the core values and mission of our organization.  Jacqueline and her Little Sister Naomi have shared a remarkable bond since being matched in 2020. Despite the challenges of her military career, Jacqueline has consistently made time

Emerald Coast Theatre Company Announces Broadway's Lulu Picart as the Musical Director for Musical Theatre Intensive

Emerald Coast Theatre Company (ECTC) is proud to announce Broadway's Lulu Picart will serve as Musical Director for the Musical Theatre Intensive: Disney's High School Musical for Teens July 8 - 28, 2024. This three week camp will stretch students' theatre skills and grow them as performers. Students work on acting, vocals, and dance while receiving high quality instruction and direction from ECTC professionals and former Broadway performer Lulu Picart, an acting and creativity coach. Her work in musicals

Lee Curtis Promoted to Director of Development at ECCAC

The Emerald Coast Children’s Advocacy Center (ECCAC) recently announced the promotion of Lee Curtis as their Director of Development.   Curtis has been with ECCAC since 2022 in a marketing capacity with a well-proven track record. This new leadership role will increase her responsibilities by working to cultivate and maintain relationships with major gift donors and businesses. She will also oversee fundraising events, membership programs, collaborate with ECCAC’s Board of Directors, and other areas

Ruckel Middle School Teacher and Golf Coach Qualifies for U.S. Senior Open Championship

The Okaloosa County School District is proud to recognize Mr. Jon Olson, who qualified on Thursday, May 30, at the 2024 U.S. Senior Open Championship at Wynlakes Golf & Country Club in Montgomery, Alabama. Eighty players competed to advance to the 44th U.S. Senior Open Championship. Jon Olson of Niceville, Florida, and Robbie Cotton of Brewton, Alabama, each carded four under 68. After a playoff, Olson claimed the final qualifying spot.  "Entering the U.S. Senior Open Championship is a cherished milestone

Fort Walton Beach High School Digital Video Students Win KinderVision/The Greatest Save Teen PSA Competition in the Technical Category

Fort Walton Beach High School (FWBHS) is proud to announce that three students, Maverick Hendley, Michael Dixon, and Kiera Stover, clinched victory for the submission of their video called "Poison" as the 2024 Teen PSA Contest Technical Winner. Poison will be the Teen PSA entry into the After-School Film Institute's Film Festival in Miami in January 2025. Reflecting on the win, Maverick Hendley shared, "This award is my first bit of recognition, and the experience I learned from making this video and being

I Heart Mac & Cheese Brings Award-Winning Recipes to Destin Commons

On June 10, I Heart Mac & Cheese celebrated the grand opening of its new Destin Commons location with a ribbon cutting. I Heart Mac & Cheese is a rapidly growing fast casual national franchise specializing in customized, made-to-order macaroni and cheese bowls, grilled cheese sandwiches, quinoa and vegetable-based bowls, gluten free pasta, and vegan bowls. The menu combines award-winning recipes resulting in a sophisticated approach to classic childhood favorites.   Visit the new location at 4285

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwest Florida Celebrates Scholarship Awards for Eight Local Students

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwest Florida is proud to announce eight local students in our mentoring programs will receive scholarships through a generous award program, paving the way for their higher education journey. This incredible opportunity comes through a collaboration between Florida Power & Light Company (FPL) and the Florida Prepaid College Foundation. Last year, FPL joined forces with the Foundation to award $4.2 million in college scholarships to students from the state's most

30A Fest Early Bird Tickets On Sale Now

     Early Bird Tickets On Sale Now  Hey 30A Fest Fam!Here are 5 reasons to get your 2025 Festival tickets today...Substantial Savings: Current early bird discounts offer up 28% OFF regular price tickets. Now is the time to secure your 2025 weekend passes at the lowest possible price.One-of-a-kind Lineup: 30A Songwriters Festival is world-renowned for its reliably fresh, eclectic curation and original lineups. From national treasures like Jackson Browne, Mavis Staples, and Brian

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwest Florida Announces Orlando Navedo as the 2024 Ronald Mobayed Military Big of the Year

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwest Florida proudly announces Orlando Navedo as the recipient of the 2024 Ronald Mobayed Military Big of the Year award. This prestigious accolade is awarded to a Big who has made an exceptional impact on their Little's life.  Orlando, a Defense Paralegal for the U.S. Navy, has been a dedicated mentor to his Little Brother Bryan since they were first matched in February 2023. The two immediately bonded, and Bryan expressed a desire to enhance his basketball skills. Orlando

NWFSC Publishes Proposed Course Fees for 2024-2025 Academic Year

Northwest Florida State College’s (NWFSC) Board of Trustees will be meeting on June 18, 2024, at 3 p.m. to review proposed course fee changes for the 2024-2025 academic year. This meeting is part of the College’s annual budgeting process for each academic year and provides an opportunity to assess ways to improve students’ overall quality of instruction and associated activities.   The proposed course and lab fees recommended for adjustment with the start of the Fall 2024 semester can be found at

NWFSC and FAMU Announce Articulation Agreement for Pharmacy Students

On June 4, 2024, Northwest Florida State College (NWFSC) and Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University (FAMU) signed an articulation agreement that creates streamlined educational pathways for students aspiring to enter the field of pharmacy.  The agreement was signed during a press conference at the FAMU College of Pharmacy campus in Crestview, Florida.   This collaboration, focusing on an Associate of Arts (AA) pathway, provides a structured and supportive route for students beginning their

Hotel Effie Sandestin Joins Prestigious Marriott Autograph Collection

On June 4, Hotel Effie Sandestin celebrated joining the prestigious Marriott Autograph Collection with a ribbon cutting. Hotel Effie Sandestin is where southern hospitality meets modern luxury. Its more than 250 guest rooms and suites are thoughtfully designed for the luxury traveler. With a reserved beach, luxury cabanas at the rooftop pool and lounge, upscale dining options, live music, onsite fitness center, and 20,000 square feet of conference and meeting space, Hotel Effie offers a seamless blend of

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwest Florida Announces Orlando Navedo as the 2024 Ronald Mobayed Military Big of the Year

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwest Florida proudly announces Orlando Navedo as the recipient of the 2024 Ronald Mobayed Military Big of the Year award. This prestigious accolade is awarded to a Big who has made an exceptional impact on their Little's life.  Orlando, a Defense Paralegal for the U.S. Navy, has been a dedicated mentor to his Little Brother Bryan since they were first matched in February 2023. The two immediately bonded, and Bryan expressed a desire to enhance his basketball skills.

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwest Florida announces Lt. Chris Coram as the 2024 Bigs with Badges Big of the Year

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwest Florida proudly announces Lieutenant Chris Coram as the recipient of our 2024 Bigs with Badges Big of the Year award. This prestigious accolade celebrates Lieutenant Coram's exceptional dedication to fostering trust, respect, and mentorship within our community through his involvement in our Bigs with Badges program.  The Bigs with Badges initiative serves as a vital bridge between the youth of our community and those who protect, serve, and support us through their

Bit-Wizards Compels Businesses to Review BCDR Plans as Atlantic Hurricane Season Begins

With the arrival of this year’s hurricane season, Managed IT Services (MITS) provider Bit-Wizards underlines the necessity for companies to review their business continuity and disaster recovery (BCDR) plans. Even though peak storm activity typically occurs in September, experts predict an 85% chance of an above-normal Atlantic hurricane season with an anticipated 17 to 25 named storms in 2024.   Preparation is key to ensuring your BDCR plan gives your business the best chance of survival. By developing an

CALM Launches Facebook Page for Furniture Resale Store

A Facebook page dedicated to CALM Furniture Resale Store just launched! Be sure to check it out for exclusive access to the latest furniture pieces and be the first to grab them. Crisis Aid for Littles and Moms (CALM) is a non-profit furniture resale store that opens the second and last Saturday of the month. Proceeds support Calm's mission to single moms and also provide an affordable furniture resale source for the community. To DONATE your gently used furniture and small appliances, call or text (850)

Dippin' Dots Okaloosa Opens New Harbor Front Kiosk

Next time you visit the Destin Harbor, be sure to stop by Dippin' Dots Okaloosa's new kiosk! Located right behind Brotula's Seafood House & Steamer at the Destin Fishing Fleet Marina, Dippin' Dots serves America's #1 beaded ice cream treat in a variety of fun and delicious flavors. In addition to the kiosk, Dippin' Dots Okaloosa can also bring the fun to you with its mobile ice cream truck. Check it out for your next event, from employee appreciations and corporate events to family reunions and

United Way 40 Under 40 Nominations Open

United Way Emerald Coast's 4th Annual 40 Under 40 Awards, presented by FPL, are just around the corner! It's time to nominate the rockstars in our community who are making a difference at their workplaces and beyond. Submit your nomination here.  

Okaloosa Announces New Efforts in Opioid Epidemic with Revive Awareness Day Event

Okaloosa County, in partnership with the Florida Department of Health in Okaloosa County, will host a press conference for Revive Awareness Day on Thursday, June 6 at 9:30 a.m. in the Board Chambers at the Okaloosa County Administration Building located at 1250 N. Eglin Parkway, Shalimar, FL 32579. During the press conference, the County, Department of Health, and several community partners will recognize the importance of Revive Awareness Day and announce plans to take additional action in the opioid

Okaloosa County Schools Participate in Summer Food Service Program 2024

Okaloosa County Schools will be participating in the Summer Food Service Program this summer. Summer Break Spot offers balanced breakfasts and lunches at no cost for kids 18 and under. Meals will be served on site, at no cost. A list of sites and service times is available on the District’s website at the following link: https://www2.okaloosaschools.com/article/1616150.  Summer feeding sites that are located at schools provide meals to all children in the immediate vicinity in addition to those enrolled in

Okaloosa County to Hold 2nd Women Veterans’ Day Celebration

Okaloosa County is inviting the public to attend the 2nd Annual Women Veterans’ Day ceremony on June 12, 2024, at 8 a.m. to celebrate the service of women who have served our nation. The event will include an indoor ceremony at the Destin-Fort Walton Beach Convention Center, followed by a wreath-laying ceremony at the nearby Women Veterans Monuments at Veterans Park. Women Veterans Day was recognized by the State of Florida by proclamation from Gov. Ron DeSantis in 2021. “This event focuses on a group of

International Business Brokers Association recognizes Jeff Moody

The International Business Brokers Association (IBBA) has recognized Jeff Moody, managing broker with Emerald Coast Business Intermediaries, with the IBBA Producer’s Award for outstanding performance in 2023, as part of its Member Excellence Awards Program. "This year’s award recipients have distinguished themselves through their exceptional professionalism and performance”, stated IBBA Chair of the Board Pino Bacinello. “As an award recipient, Jeff is acknowledged as contributing vastly to our profession.

Okaloosa County to Collect Organic/Vegetative Storm Debris

Beginning May 28, 2024, Okaloosa County will begin removing organic/vegetative storm debris beyond the normal services offered by the County. This action is intended to provide immediate relief to residents following the May 10 storms which caused damage to homes and toppled trees in the area. This process will take place on County-maintained roads and is expected to take about one week. Residents are encouraged to remain patient as Public Works crews make the debris collection. The level of damage

Hello Frances Podcast: Operation Innovation: Military Roots and Creative Routes

On this week’s episode of the Hello Frances podcast, our host Shantelle Dedicke is joined by past and present members of the Frances Roy team to discuss the profound influence of military family life on their creative passions. This episode also features a special guest, Mrs. Lee, an esteemed elementary school teacher who left an indelible mark on countless military children.Listen now.

World’s Largest Lionfish Tournament Celebrates Another Successful Year, Records Record-breaking Largest Lionfish

Divers in the Emerald Coast Open lionfish tournament were able to successfully remove 7,411 invasive lionfish despite rough weather in the Gulf of Mexico during the May 17-19 weekend event. Including the pre-tournament, 11,844 lionfish were removed for the entire event. Lionfish have few predators due to their venomous spines and cause negative impacts to the native ecosystem. “These divers put in a lot of effort to help our ecosystem against this invasive species,” said Okaloosa County Vice Chairman

Destin American Legion Post 296 Attends American Legion National High School Oratorical Scholarship

Destin American Legion Post 296 Oratorical Chairman Jim Wood attended the National High School Oratory Scholarship Competition at Hillsdale College in Hillsdale, Mich., on May 18-19, 2024. The local Post’s competitor was William Kiker from Fort Walton Beach High School, the winner of the local Post 296 competition and ultimately the Florida State/Department Championship.    Required speeches centered around the US Constitution in varying lengths from eight to ten minutes and three to five minutes,

Today’s Boutique Bids Farewell After 43+ Years in Business

Get ready to bid adieu with a smile as Today's Boutique, your favorite fashion hotspot for the past 43 years, announces its retirement with a heart full of thanks and love for the community. Owners Kim and Jim Dettle, along with their daughter Kristin Dettle Humphrey, are gearing up for a farewell filled with style, laughter, and lots of memories.   “This bittersweet decision comes with a huge mix of emotions.  As we embark on this new chapter of our lives, our primary focus will be to spend more time

Warren Averett Announces Destin/Ft Walton 2024 Promotions

Warren Averett CPAs and Advisors is pleased to announce our annual firmwide promotions. The firm promoted six individuals in our Destin and Fort Walton Beach offices.Penny Mercer was promoted to Principal in the firm’s Client Accounting Services Division. She oversees outsourced accounting responsibilities and effectively manages staff. Additionally, Penny offers valuably advisory, controller and accounting clean-up services and provides comprehensive consulting and training on both QuickBooks desktop and

May 2024 Update from One Okaloosa EDC

By Nathan Sparks, CEcD Executive Director of One Okaloosa EDC Many of you reading this had the pleasure of knowing Dr. David Goetsch, Emeritus Vice President, Northwest Florida State College, noted author of more than 70 books and proud United States Marine Corps veteran. Among his many accomplishments (and I do mean many), Dr. Goetsch co-founded both One Okaloosa EDC and the Technology Coast Manufacturing & Engineering Network (TeCMEN) in the late 80s. He served as Chairman of the EDC twice and was

Okaloosa Technical College Ranks 55th in the 2024 National Cyber League Cyber Power Ranking

The National Cyber League (NCL) concluded the Spring 2024 NCL Competition with participation from all over the United States, representing all 50 states. Each season, the NCL publishes its Cyber Power Rankings of the top 100 schools in the competition. These rankings measure students' abilities to work individually and as a team in performing a wide range of cybersecurity tasks. Okaloosa Technical College (OTC) ranked 55th in the nation, with 29 students competing in this competition amongst 7,412 other

Okaloosa County School District Highlights Graduates of Okaloosa Up

On Tuesday, May 21, the Okaloosa County School District, families, and friends celebrated the achievements of three remarkable individuals - Reid Soria, Bailey Lamonte, and Diana Dowart, for completing the Okaloosa Unique Professionals program, also known as “Okaloosa UP.” Through Okaloosa UP, they have gained invaluable training and support, enabling them to develop essential career skills and earn occupational completion points, career certificates, and even industry certifications or licensure. All three

Okaloosa County School District Students with Disabilities Graduate from Project Search High School Transition Program for the Second Year

The Project SEARCH program, in collaboration with the Okaloosa County School District (OCSD), has been incredibly successful in providing valuable opportunities for students with disabilities to gain essential job skills and transition into the workforce. For the second year, six students with disabilities from the Okaloosa County School District successfully graduated from the Project SEARCH High School Transition Program on Tuesday, May 21, at the Hilton Garden Inn on Okaloosa Island. The program is for

Destin Forward Celebrates Beautification of Clement Taylor Park

On May 20, the Destin Forward Class of 2024 celebrated the completion of its class project, the beautification of Destin’s Clement Taylor Park, with a ribbon cutting. Improvements include educational signage, upgrades to the volleyball court, and the planting of Florida native plants. Destin Forward, the Destin Chamber’s community education and leadership program, was created to help find and educate future city and business leaders. In addition to the project, the class spent nine months touring and

Okaloosa County School District Announces 2024 Graduation Ceremonies

The Okaloosa County School District announces the schedule of graduation ceremonies for the High School Class of 2024. All graduations will be live streamed and links are provided below.    Baker School – Friday, May 17, Doug Griffith Stadium at 7:30 pm.https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aeuP4WPLT3U   Choctawhatchee High School – Thursday, May 23, Joe Etheridge Stadium at 7:30 pm.    https://youtube.com/live/6U5w9MCQITs   Crestview High School – Friday, May 24, Jack Foster Stadium at 7:00 pm.   

Step One Subaru Fort Walton Beach Donates $26,676 to Save Underdogs as Part of Subaru's Share the Love Event

Step One Subaru Fort Walton Beach proudly announces its recent contribution of $26,676 to Save Underdogs as part of Subaru of America's annual Share the Love Event. The Share the Love Event is a charitable initiative by Subaru of America where $250 from every new Subaru purchased or leased is donated to a choice of charitable partners. Save Underdogs, a nonprofit organization dedicated to rescuing and finding loving homes for underprivileged dogs, was the Fort Walton Beach beneficiary of this

Eco Clean Marine Leads Coastal Cleanup Success: 85 Buckets of Trash Tackled by 43 Volunteers

In a remarkable display of community spirit and environmental stewardship, Eco Clean Marine orchestrated a sensational trash pick-up event at The Original Oyster House Parking Lot in Gulf Shores on May 4, 2024. The initiative drew an incredible turnout with 43 enthusiastic volunteers converging to tackle the tides of trash that had washed up on our shores. Armed with determination and a passion for preserving our coastal paradise, the Eco Clean Marine crew wasted no time. In just one whirlwind hour, these

Okaloosa County School District Highlights Mental Health Awareness Month

During May, Okaloosa County Schools and District offices will observe Mental Health Awareness Month by engaging in fun activities focused on helping our school communities, students, and staff promote mental wellness, providing mental health resources, and helping foster conversations at home around mental wellness. Mental Health is not merely the absence of illness but rather a state of thriving and resilience.  By empowering teachers, engaging parents, fostering community support, and addressing stigma,

Okaloosa County School District to Offer Education Summer Camps

In June, the Okaloosa County School District will host several Career and Technical Education (CTE) Summer Camps for rising 5th and 8th graders. The camp's design is to inspire young students to learn more about CTE career fields. Campers will have options ranging from hands-on skills in building trades, welding, and bio-medical to learning web and app design and coding in computer camps. All camps will be operated by experienced Okaloosa County teachers and will take place at Choctawhatchee High School,

More Than $100,000 Raised at the Food Fore Thought Charity Golf Tournament

On Thursday, May 9, more than 100 golfers gathered at the Emerald Bay Golf Club for the inaugural Food Fore Thought Classic. The event, created in partnership with the Premier Property Group, provided an opportunity to honor the life and legacy of Jon Kazek. The tournament was opened by Board Member Garret McNeil, who introduced Sheriff Adkinson and Anne Kazek. Sheriff Adkinson and Anne shared remarks about Jon Kazek's generosity and love for the community. To honor Jon’s legacy and support the work of

Read the May 2024 Issue of Destin Life

Elite Cabinet Designs’ New Showroom Offers Shoppers Immersive Experience

On May 16, Elite Cabinet Designs celebrated a ribbon cutting with the Destin Chamber. The new 5,700-square-foot showroom, located at 11662 Emerald Coast Pkwy., in Miramar Beach, next door to Renovation Flooring, showcases the latest innovations in cabinet designs, hardware, kitchen and bathroom cabinetry, a variety of storage solutions, and outdoor scapes by Renovation Flooring. It highlights Wellborn cabinets on the inside and NatureKast waterproof cabinetry for the outdoor section, as well as coral

ECCAC hosting a volunteer orientation on June 18

The Emerald Coast Children’s Advocacy Center (ECCAC) will be hosting an informative Volunteer Orientation on Tuesday evening, June 18,  from 6-7 pm. in their Niceville Center, 401 McEwen Drive. Volunteers are needed to help at their center in Niceville, or volunteers can help in other ways such as community events and more.   According to ECCA Volunteer and Event Coordinator Ana Michalznik, “We invite you to take a guided tour of our Center, hear about the work we are doing in the community and learn more

The Love of Animals Golf Tournament Sponsors Announced

Alaqua Animal Refuge is excited to announce that Sandestin Golf & Beach Resort + Hotel Effie have stepped up as the Presenting Sponsors and Champions for the Cause at the 3rd Annual FORE! The Love of Animals Golf Tournament. This prestigious event will unfold at The Links Golf Club at Sandestin on Saturday, June 8, 2024, where sport meets compassion in a day full of golf and goodwill.  Simba, an Alaqua Alum and the charismatic canine mascot and esteemed Director of Pet Services at Hotel Effie, is at the

Destin-Fort Walton Beach to host World’s Largest Lionfish Tournament

Divers from across the country will be descending on the beautiful Gulf of Mexico waters, May 17-19, 2024, for the main event of Destin-Fort Walton Beach’s Emerald Coast Open, the world’s largest lionfish tournament. This competitive event creates an opportunity for divers to compete for prizes, while also helping the ecosystem recover from the invasive lionfish species that prey upon native fish. Divers are allowed to begin harvesting lionfish from sunrise to sunset and will be competing with more than

Ready the May 2024 Issue of VIP Destin Magazine

Warren Averett Named one of Accounting Today’s 2024 Best Firms for Technology

Warren Averett CPAs and Advisorswas named one of Accounting Today’s 2024 Best Firms for Technology. Accounting firms on the 2024 list use deliberate and intentional AI efforts, advancements in technology infrastructure and a comprehensive and solution-focused view of the ever-evolving technology landscape.Accounting Today is the leading information resource for public accountants, providing actionable and insightful content on a variety of subjects, including tax law, accounting standards, technology, audit

Florosa Elementary Music Teacher Selected as a Country Music Association Foundation 2024 Music Teacher of Excellence

In celebration of Teacher Appreciation Week, the County Music Association (CMA) Foundation partnered with 30 Country Music stars to surprise music teachers nationwide that they were selected as a Music Teacher of Excellence. Florosa Elementary Music Teacher Sarah Theres was surrounded by co-workers when the announcement was made on Tuesday, May 7, via a special congratulatory video by Country artist Caitlyn Smith that she was selected as a 2024 CMA Foundation Music Teacher of Excellence (MToE). As part of

15th Military Appreciation Free Lunch

Cumulus Media Fort Walton Beach-Destin has partnered with Eglin Federal Credit Union to provide a FREE lunch to anyone who has served or is currently serving our country. The 15th Military Appreciation Free Lunch is on Wednesday, May 15th from 11 am to 1 pm. Current and former military service members can enjoy a free lunch at one of five locations: Hot Head Burritos in Mary Esther and Crestview, Dodge’s Southern Style in Fort Walton Beach, Fazoli’s in Mary Esther, and Task Force Pizza in Fort Walton Beach.

Fort Walton Beach High School Receives National Recognition from Project Lead the Way for Commitment to Empowering Students

On Thursday, May 2, Fort Walton Beach High School was recognized as a 2023-24 Project Lead the Way (PLTW) Distinguished School. This honor reflects the dedication to providing students with broad access to transformative learning experiences through PLTW Biomedical Science and Engineering. “Being named a PLTW Distinguished High School is a true honor. We pride ourselves on preparing students for a future in STEM fields related to biomedical sciences and engineering. We strive to foster a passion for

NWFSC Launches New Workforce Programs

Northwest Florida State College (NWFSC) is pleased to introduce three new workforce programs designed to meet both regional and state demands. Starting this fall, we will be enrolling students in Nursing Assistant, Phlebotomy, and a cutting-edge Information Technology program with a specialization in Artificial Intelligence (AI). These programs have been developed in direct response to the needs of our industry partners  "We are thrilled to lead in workforce education and training across Northwest

More than 275 Artificial Reefs Recently Deployed off of Destin-Fort Walton Beach

Marine life in the Gulf of Mexico now has hundreds of additional underwater habitats thanks to a $1.26 million artificial reef project funded by the Natural Resource Damage Assessment Fund. The project included 133 different reef sites and the deployment of 279 total reef structures ranging from 6-25 feet. The project was managed by the Coastal Resources team of Destin-Fort Walton Beach in Okaloosa County’s Tourism Development Department. The reefs include some of the deepest modules ever deployed by

Okaloosa County School District Graduation Schedule

The Okaloosa County School District announces the schedule of graduation ceremonies for the High School Class of 2024. All graduations will be live streamed and links are provided below.    Baker School – Friday, May 17, Doug Griffith Stadium at 7:30 pm.https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aeuP4WPLT3U   Choctawhatchee High School – Thursday, May 23, Joe Etheridge Stadium at 7:30 pm.    https://youtube.com/live/6U5w9MCQITs   Crestview High School – Friday, May 24, Jack Foster Stadium at 7:00 pm.   

Locks on the Docks Offers Secure Temporary Storage of Luggage & Personal Items on the Destin Harbor

On May 7, Locks on the Docks LLC celebrated a ribbon cutting with the Destin Chamber. Locks on the Docks' goal is to provide security to locals and tourists, while they enjoy a harbor excursion, a day on the beach, or any other occasion they may need a locker to temporarily store luggage and other items.  You will find the lockers on the docks at HarborWalk Village between The Cantina and Boogies Watersports' jet skis. Visit https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61553928854666 to learn more.

2024 Grace Fulcher Memorial Scholarship Winner

Sinfonia Gulf Coast is pleased to announce that Orion Quinn Beckler of Gulf Breeze, Florida, has been named the winner of the 2024 Grace Fulcher Memorial Scholarship.  This scholarship, created in memory and honor of Grace Bernice Fulcher, is awarded annually to a Sinfonia Youth Orchestra high school senior. The 2024 scholarship recipient was announced following the Sinfonia Youth Orchestra Spring Concert on Sunday, May 5. The scholarship is awarded to contribute to tuition and fees associated with higher

Cox to recognize Inspirational Student Heroes in Okaloosa County

Tomorrow, Cox Communications will recognize 36 special students at the annual Cox Inspirational Student Hero Awards ceremony in Okaloosa County. The event will be held on Wednesday, May 8th at 4:00 p.m. inside Raider Café on the campus of Northwest Florida State College in Niceville. All the pertinent information is below. We hope you can join us and celebrate these wonderful students.  ●What: Cox Inspirational Student Hero Awards in Okaloosa County●When: Wednesday, May 8, 2024, check-in/reception at 3:00

17 Graduate from Destin Chamber’s Community Education & Leadership Program

On May 2, the Destin Chamber celebrated the graduation of 17 business professionals from its 15th Destin Forward class. During the event, the prestigious Destin Forward Leadership Award, chosen by class vote, was presented to Wendi Davis of Eglin Federal Credit Union. She is seen in the photo on the left with 2024 Chamber Chairman Christian Carlee of Trustmark. Destin Forward, a community education and leadership program, was created to help find and educate future city and business leaders.  After a

Cox and ECCPTA to recognize students in Escambia County

Next week, Cox Communications and the Escambia County Council of PTAs/PTSAs will be recognizing 53 special students in Escambia County. The Cox Inspirational Student Hero Awards and ECCPTAs’ Student of the Year ceremony will be held on Monday, May 6th at 4:00 p.m. at the University of West Florida. All the pertinent information is below. We hope you can join us and celebrate these wonderful students.   What: Cox Inspirational Student Hero Awards and Escambia County Council of PTAs/PTSAs Student of the

Okaloosa County School District Seniors Recognized for Academic Achievement

On Tuesday, April 16th, the Northwest Florida State College Raider Arena hosted the 50th annual Anne T. Mitchell Senior Honor Award Reception. The event recognized 591 high school seniors from Baker, Choctaw, Crestview, Fort Walton Beach, Laurel Hill, and Niceville High Schools who will graduate with honors in May. These students have achieved a weighted GPA of 3.75 or higher, which designates them as Summa Cum Laude, Magna Cum Laude, or Cum Laude. Superintendent Marcus Chambers expressed his pride and

Team Okaloosa Captures First Place in State Academic Challenge

In an impressive display of academic prowess, Team Okaloosa, comprising eight talented high school students, secured the top spot in the prestigious Commissioner’s Academic Challenge (CAC) held from April 10-13. The CAC, a long-standing tradition since 1986, is Florida’s premier academic competition, celebrating the scholarly achievements of high school students across the state. This spring event tests participants in various subjects, including language arts, mathematics, science, social studies, the fine

Sinfonia Gulf Coast & Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation Partner to Bring the Paint the Music Program to Nearly 2,000 Students

This unique multi-disciplinary program offered our local youth an immersive experience in visual arts, live theater, and music all in one program. Beginning with an exploration of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart’s compositions, students from 16 Okaloosa and Walton County schools and home school groups engaged in the "paint what you hear" activity in their classrooms. On April 24, each class browsed their selected masterpieces showcased at the Destin-Fort Walton Beach Convention Center as part of the Paint the

Celebrating Excellence: The Dynamic Duo of Diane Green and Heather Sprigler

Newman-Dailey Resort Properties Real Estate Division honors Diane Green and Heather Sprigler as its first quarter top real estate producers. A formidable mother-daughter duo, Diane and Heather’s dedication, expertise, and a deep-rooted passion for helping clients buy and sell their dream homes contributed to their achievement as Top Sales and Top Listing Agent respectively. Bringing together decades of combined experience, Diane Green and Heather Sprigler form an unstoppable force in the real estate realm.

Summer Food Service

Summer Food Service  With support from the Emerald Coast Association of Realtors, we are starting our Summer Services Strong!  This generous group donated $10,000 to help fight child hunger in their community this summer! Thank you for your support!  The average food-insecure child is at risk of missing 110 meals during summer break while removed from the free/reduced meal plan they depend upon from school.   You Can

Okaloosa Technical College's Practical Nursing Program Achieves 100% Pass Rate Once Again

Okaloosa Technical College (OTC) is proud to announce that all sixteen students of the 2023-2024 Practical Nursing Program class have passed the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) with flying colors. This means that all of them have earned their licensed practical nurse certification (LPN). This program is approved by the Florida State Board of Nursing and is designed to prepare students to become safe and competent practical nurses in all areas of the medical field. The program lasts for

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Beach Properties of Florida Hosts Elevate Awards Gala at Exclusive Luxury Residence in Panama City Beach

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Beach Properties of Florida recently hosted the prestigious Elevate Awards Gala, a special celebration honoring the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Threshold Award Winners of 2023. This exclusive event brought together the top achievers from Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Beach Properties of Florida, recognizing agents who exemplify excellence and dedication in the real estate industry placing them among the top tier of the brand’s global network. Partnering with Detailed

May Madness at Regatta Chiropractic and Laser Center

Destin Continues to Provide Flood Protection to Properties

Annually, the City of Destin provides an update to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) on the progress made in mitigating flood losses through the planning and construction of stormwater management projects. This update also complies with the requirements for the National Flood Insurance Program Community Rating System. Due to the proximity to the Gulf of Mexico, Destin is prone to significant rainfall events that impact the overall number of repetitive loss properties. Typically, these events

NWFSC Launches Youth Entrepreneurship, Leadership, and Mentorship (ELM) Youth Program

Northwest Florida State College (NWFSC) is excited to announce the launch of a new secondary education initiative, the Entrepreneurship, Leadership, and Mentorship (ELM) Youth Program. Facilitated through NWFSC’s Workforce Development department, the 10-month program is designed to prepare high school juniors and seniors in Okaloosa and Walton counties for careers in fields that may be pursued through non-traditional academic pathways. Although the curriculum is geared towards students with an interest in

Okaloosa Arts Alliance 15th Annual School Poster Contest Winners

The Okaloosa Arts Alliance would like to thank all the Okaloosa County School students who participated in the 15th annual OAA Okaloosa County School Poster Contest. This year the theme was “Arts in Outer Space”.  Although we weren't able to make everyone a 1st place winner, all 106 entries are on display at Grow Your Gift Conservatory of Music through May 6, 2024. Grow Your Gift Conservatory of Music is located at 105B Lewis St, Fort Walton Beach, FL 32547 and their business hours are (9 am-7 pm

Niceville High School Web Programming Student Wins First Place in Annual Congressional App Challenge

On November 18, 2023, U.S. Congressman Matt Gaetz announced Niceville High School Junior Andrew Putman as the 2023 Congressional App Challenge winner in Florida's First District at Northwest Florida State College. Andrew's app, Assets4Kids, won first place in the competition, which aims to alleviate child poverty. He was inspired to develop the app after witnessing child poverty during a mission trip to the Dominican Republic.   Congressman Matt Gaetz invited Andrew and his teacher, Carrie Foxhall, to the

Get Your Big Brothers Big Sisters License Plate Today

Is your Birthday around the corner? Looking to add some beachy vibes to your ride? Look no further! This year, when you renew your tags, grab a Big Brothers Big Sisters license plate featuring a picturesque beach scene. Not only will you be cruising in style, but you'll also be supporting our mission.  With each BBBS license plate sold, $25 goes directly towards our one-to-one mentoring programs, driving positive change for kids in our community. Let's transform every journey into an opportunity to make a

Frank Flautt is ECCAC’s newest Zeke Bratkowski Humanitarian Award Recipient

The Emerald Coast Children’s Advocacy Center (ECCAC) recently awarded Frank Flautt one of their top honors. It was at ECCAC’s Gala this year at the Sandestin Hilton where Flautt was recognized as the 5th annual Zeke Bratkowski humanitarian award recipient. Bratkowski was an NFL professional football player, and an assistant coach in the NFL for over two decades. He passed away in 2019, and was a passionate supporter of ECCAC, founding their first gala and golf event in 1999.  The newest recipient of this

NWFSC Student Advisory Board Make a Significant Impact at Florida College System’s Annual Leadership Conference

The Northwest Florida State College (NWFSC) Student Advisory Board made a significant impact at the annual End-Year Conference of the Florida College System Student Government Association, hosted by Seminole State College in Sanford, Florida, April 19-20, 2024. Among the accolades, NWFSC student Abdiel Alvarado-Pabon secured the Region Rookie Student Award, Lillian Roller received the Region Student Leadership Award, and Connor Kilroy was honored with the State President's Award. Additionally, the NWFSC

First National Bank Miramar Beach Recognizes Local South Walton High School Student Samantha Cantu with a $1,000 Scholarship

First National Bank Miramar Beach proudly announces a $1,000 scholarship award to Samantha Cantu, a distinguished senior at South Walton High School. Samantha's exceptional commitment to academic excellence and community engagement distinguishes her as a deserving recipient of this prestigious scholarship. The scholarship, presented by Senior Vice President Marketing & Retail Lorenda Smith and Market Manager Springer Williams of First National Bank Miramar Beach, underscores Samantha's dedication to her

Rainbow Pediatrics Celebrates Opening of Santa Rosa Beach Office

On April 23, Rainbow Pediatrics celebrated a ribbon cutting with the Destin Chamber. Operated by a Board-certified pediatrician, Rainbow Pediatrics provides your child the best pediatric care for a bright and vibrant future. Services include well child visits, immunizations, school & health physicals, prenatal & newborn care, allergy testing, respiratory & asthma care, ADHD and behavioral management, and more. Visit the new office at 870 Mack Bayou Rd. Ste. B, in Santa Rosa Beach, or visit

Hello Frances Podcast: Insights from Creative South Conference 2024

This week on the Hello Frances Podcast, our Art Director Janae Erickson, and Digital Media Specialist Nicole Malley take over the microphone to discuss their takeaways from the Creative South Conference in Columbus, Georgia. They share quotes from engaging speakers, their favorite things about Columbus, and much more! Listen now.

NFB Pre-Professional Program, Company and Trainee Auditions

Northwest Florida Ballet (NFB) Pre-Professional Program (PPP), Company and Trainee auditions are now open for the 2024-2025 season. Auditions will take place on May 11 at the main studio building in downtown Fort Walton Beach and are by reservation only. Trainee auditions will take place from 9:00 am to 10:30 am, and auditions for the Pre-Professional and Company programs will be conducted from 11 am to 12:30 pm.   Company auditions are open to students entering the eighth grade and up with no less than

Northwest Florida State College Streamlines Math Graduation Requirements

Today, Northwest Florida State College (NWFSC) took a bold step in reforming its general education math requirements, setting a precedent for other institutions in Florida by implementing Senate Bill (SB) 366 (2021). As a result, students will no longer be required to take math courses irrelevant to their intended careers.   SB 366 amended a section of Florida law to mandate three distinct math pathways for students, tailored to align math courses with specific programs and the skills demanded by

Emerald Coast Theatre Company Raises $37,467 at Inaugural Signature Event, “La Vie En Rouge”

Emerald Coast Theatre Company’s (ECTC) signature event, “La Vie En Rouge,” held on Thursday, March 28 raised $37,467 for the local organization. Embodied after the hit musical, Moulin Rouge!, the event brought the glitz and glamour of a 19th century Parisian cabaret to the Emerald Coast. From entry to exit, guests were delighted with live musical performances and interactive experiences from ECTC’s talent troupe of singers and actors, sponsored by Grand Boulevard at Sandestin® and Cabana by The Seaside

Fort Walton Beach High School Student Places Fourth at National Debate Championship

Incubate Debate recently held its 2024 National Championship on April 5-6 in Jacksonville, FL. The event was attended by 89 students from 23 counties who engaged in competitive debates on various pressing issues, such as the Trump January 6th federal case, the China-Taiwan conflict, college DEI programs, and the climate emergency.  One of the standout students at the event was Christian Bailey from Fort Walton Beach High School, who placed 4th overall in the National Debate Championship. In the final round

Warren Averett Recognized As One of Vault's 2025 Top 50 Most Prestigious Accounting Firms

Warren Averett CPAs and Advisors was named a Most Prestigious Accounting Firm by Vault, a trusted authority in career intelligence resources for professionals and students. This is the third time that Warren Averett has been named to this list.  The 2025 Top 50 Most Prestigious Accounting Firms list was determined through a survey filled out by accounting professionals from late 2023 into early 2024.  The survey asked about life at the survey participant’s current or former firm, and they were also asked

HouseMaster® Home Inspection Opens to Serve Destin and Surrounding Communities

Local owners Jeff and Kathleen Cresse are thrilled to announce the opening of their HouseMaster® Home Inspection of Destin, Serving Okaloosa and Walton Counites, a Neighborly® company. HouseMaster® Home Inspection of Destin provides homebuyers and sellers with an independent, third-party, professional, thorough and impartial inspection of a house using the latest industry standards and best practices. HouseMaster® Home Inspection of Destin also can provide the following services: Wind Mitigation, Four

CALM Celebrates Opening of CALM Village with a Ribbon Cutting

Crisis Aid for Littles and Moms held a ribbon cutting ceremony for its newest addition CALM Village, which will double the outreach capability. Each of these four tiny homes are fully furnished and ready for occupancy for qualified moms.  For more information and to apply, visit nicevillecalm.com.

NWFSC’s Fall 2023 President’s and Dean’s List

Northwest Florida State College (NWFSC) recognized the superior academic achievement of students who completed the Fall 2023 semester by naming them to the President’s List and Dean’s List. The President’s List includes students with nine or more credits in the semester who earned a grade point average of 3.8 to 4.0 in college-level courses during the semester. The Dean’s List includes students with nine or more credits in the semester who earned a GPA of 3.5 to 3.79 in college-level courses during the

Diana Health Offers High Quality Women’s Healthcare to our Destin/Fort Walton Beach Area

On April 16, Diana Health celebrated a ribbon cutting with the Destin and Greater Fort Walton Beach chambers of commerce. Diana Health is a full-scope OB/GYN practice that believes in delivering evidence-based, high-quality, empowering care to women of all ages. It offers a full range of services to meet your healthcare needs across all stages of your life.  From gynecology, maternity care, mental health services, health and wellness coaching, and more, the professionals at Diana Health will work with

Eglin Federal Credit Union Partners with Okaloosa County School District to Bring Financial Literacy

Eglin Federal Credit Union and the Okaloosa County School District teamed up to bring financial literacy to high school students. Approximately 60 high school students from the 9th to 12th grades participated in lessons facilitated by Eglin Federal Credit Union’s VP Membership and Community Development, Neko Stubblefield, at Crestview High School on April 9. The personal financial literacy course covers a wide range of topics, from opening a checking or savings account to planning for retirement.   “Eglin

Statement From Chair Lori Kelley on Dr. Stephenson’s Selection as the Next President of Florida Polytechnic University

On behalf of the Board of Trustees at Northwest Florida State College, I extend congratulations to Dr. Devin Stephenson on his selection as the next President of Florida Polytechnic University. Dr. Stephenson’s visionary leadership during the past eight years has profoundly impacted our institution, ushering in an era of significant growth and achievement.    His dedication and strategic insight have not only enhanced our academic offerings but have also strengthened the College’s relationship with the

Read the April 2024 Issue of Destin Life

Renee Fennell Larkey Promoted to Okaloosa County Clerk's Inspector General

The Okaloosa County Clerk of Court’s Office is pleased to announce Renee Fennell Larkey as the New Inspector General. Renee was promoted from Deputy Inspector General to the position of Inspector General by the honorable JD Peacock. As the Inspector General, Renee oversees and directs the internal audit and investigative functions of the Clerk of Court and the Board of County Commissioners. Renee provides counsel and advice to county officials on matters related to internal and external audits,

Brenda Gray Named Destin Chamber’s 2023 Ambassador of the Year

Brenda Gray, Director of Sales at the Hilton Garden Inn Destin/Miramar Beach, is the Destin Chamber’s 2023 Paul Woolman Ambassador of the Year! The award was presented by 2023 Chairman Jason Belcher of FNBT, during the Chamber’s April 12 Business Before Hours Sponsored by The Palms Bistro. “Brenda has been a great advocate for the Destin Chamber for many years.  She brings happiness, enthusiasm and excitability to everything she does.  She almost never says ‘no,’ and she truly enjoys her involvement and

Okaloosa Maintains More than 20-year StormReady Designation from National Weather Service

National Weather Service (NWS) has recently renewed Okaloosa County’s StormReady status, a designation that acknowledges the County’s emergency preparedness through robust communications infrastructure and an increased level of severe weather awareness. The County has maintained this designation since 2002. “I am extremely proud that Okaloosa County remains at the highest level of storm readiness,” said Okaloosa County Board Chairman Paul Mixon. “While we cannot prevent natural disasters, it is important

Cultural Arts Alliance of Walton County Announces the 2024 Festival’s Featured Artist, Bradley Copeland

ArtsQuest, the 36th Annual Fine Arts Festival produced by the Cultural Arts Alliance of Walton County (CAA), is pleased to announce the 2024 Festival’s Featured Artist, Bradley Copeland. Her custom artwork titled “Matapalo'' will be the featured image on all ArtsQuest marketing materials. Copeland’s work will be featured at ArtsQuest, a beloved May tradition taking place May 4th & 5th in Grand Boulevard Town Center‘s North Park. Bradley Copeland is a prolific 26 year-old artist living in Santa Rosa Beach,

Emerald Coast Theatre Company Presents Mary Poppins The Broadway Musical

Emerald Coast Theatre Company (ECTC) presents Mary Poppins The Broadway Musical, May 3 - May 19, 2024. Sprinkle a spoonful of sugar on your spring with the delightful and enchanting Mary Poppins! This show is “practically perfect in every way” for all ages and feels like a “jolly holiday” with friends and family. Don’t miss this supercalifragilisticexpialidocious show that will lift your spirits and leave you feeling like you want to go “fly a kite!” Tickets available at emeraldcoasttheatre.org. Nathanael

Educate the Educators Plus One Program Provides Okaloosa County Students and Teachers with Opportunities to Explore Local Businesses

On Friday, April 5, a group of fifteen students and teachers from middle and high schools in north Okaloosa County were given a behind-the-scenes tour of several local businesses. This tour was part of the Educate the Educator Plus One program, which was organized by the Okaloosa County School District, One Okaloosa EDC, TecMEN, and Career Source of Okaloosa and Walton Counties. The program aims to provide students and educators with knowledge about the local labor market and job opportunities, and

Zot Artz: Art Events for Special Needs

Hello Frances Podcast: Day to Day: 8 Years with Frances Roy

This week on the Hello Frances Podcast, our host Shantelle Dedicke takes us behind the scenes in honor of her 8th work anniversary and the 8-year birthday of Frances Roy. Join Shantelle as she unveils a glimpse into her life, sharing personal and professional aspects of her daily routines. Gain a unique insight into the rhythm of agency life and Shantelle's journey of dedication and growth! Listen now.

2024 Okaloosa County Mosquito Control Schedule

The Okaloosa County Mosquito Control Program schedule for treatment by broadcast spraying pesticide for control of adult mosquito populations is detailed below. Maps of showing general treatment area by days of the week are also linked. Broadcast treatment is conducted in the evening and is required by State Law to be justified. Justification is based on mosquito population surveillance data and other methods. Treatments will begin 1 hour before sunset. Map Links North Okaloosa County North Okaloosa

“Spring Concert: A Concert of Beginnings and Endings” at Destin High School

Put a song in your heart this spring. Gather with family and friends to hear joyous music performed by the Sinfonia Youth Orchestras in concert on Sunday, May 5 at 2 p.m. at Destin High School.    Entitled “Spring Concert: A Concert of Beginnings and Endings,” the concert is a fun family-friendly annual tradition that showcases the talent of our area’s finest young musicians.   This year’s concert, which is free and open to the public, will feature Beginning Strings, Sinfonietta Strings, Intermediate

Lieutenant Governor Jeannette Nuñez Announces Third Annual Space Art Contest at Plew Elementary

Today, Lieutenant Governor Jeanette Nuñez visited Plew Elementary to announce the Third Annual Spring 2024 Florida Space Art Contest for Florida’s kindergarten through fifth grade students. Mrs. Leavins and Mrs. Hill's students welcomed Lieutenant Governor Nuñez, Superintendent Marcus Chambers, and Space Florida’s President and CEO Rob Long to their classrooms. The students showed them some of the STEAM projects they were currently working on. During the announcement at Plew's media center, Lieutenant

Easter Bunny and Easter Egg Dash Fun Experience for Kids at LuLu’s

Once again, LuLu’s in Destin held its annual Easter event. Kids were ‘eggcited’ to see the tropically clad Easter Bunny as he helped the kids find 5,000 eggs at the Easter Egg Dash on the sandy beach on the Choctawhatchee Bay. Divided by age groups, Easter eggs, along with prizes in golden eggs, were placed all over for kids to put in their Easter baskets. Kids and their families also got to visit with the Easter bunny on the LuLu’s stage.   “We had a great Easter celebration at LuLu’s,” said GM Jerry

SBA Offers Disaster Assistance to Businesses and Residents of Florida Affected by Severe Storms and Tornadoes

Florida businesses and residents affected by severe storms, straight-line winds and tornadoes on Jan. 8-9 are eligible to apply for low-interest disaster loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration, SBA Administrator Isabel Casillas Guzman announced today. Administrator Guzman made the loans available in response to a letter from Florida Governor Ron DeSantis’ authorized representative Kevin Guthrie, on March 25 requesting a disaster declaration by the SBA. Businesses and residents in the declared

First High School Health Academy on HCA Healthcare Campus Now Open in Fort Walton Beach

HCA Florida Fort Walton-Destin Hospital and the Okaloosa County School District (OCSD) announced the opening today of the Health Academy of Northwest Florida on the hospital’s campus. The Health Academy of Northwest Florida is the first high school health academy to be housed on an HCA Healthcare hospital campus anywhere in the country. A joint partnership between HCA Florida Fort-Walton Destin Hospital and OCSD, the Health Academy of Northwest Florida provides high school students interested in healthcare

Twelve Okaloosa County Schools Designated as “Schools of Excellence” by the Florida Department of Ed

On Friday, March 29, 2024, ten Okaloosa County District Schools, along with two charter schools, were designated by the Florida Department of Education as “Schools of Excellence” for the 2022-2023 academic year. The Schools of Excellence program was established by the Florida Legislature in 2017 under HB 7069 to recognize and reward Florida’s highest-performing schools. The program aims to promote continuous improvement and provide administrative flexibility to the state’s top schools so they can maintain

A2Z Specialty Advertising: A Refreshing New Chapter under Donna and Paul Montalvo's Ownership

A2Z Specialty Advertising, the cornerstone of promotional products and specialty advertising in the heart of the Florida Panhandle, is thrilled to announce its acquisition by Donna and Paul Montalvo, effective April 1, 2024. This exciting development marks a significant milestone in the journey of A2Z Specialty Advertising, infusing the company with a renewed spirit of enthusiasm and dedication to serving its cherished clients. Donna and Paul Montalvo, the proud new owners, bring with them a wealth of

Destin American Legion Post 296 Sponsors State Champion of the 2023-2024 Florida American Legion High School Oratory Scholarship Program

On Jan. 5, 2024, William Kiker from Fort Walton Beach High School won the American Legion Post 296 competition for the American Legion High School Oratory Scholarship Program.  On March 30, we traveled down to Orlando for the State/Department Championship.  William was victorious over five other finalists from across the State of Florida.  For his efforts, William was awarded a $2500 scholarship.  The next step is the National Championship scheduled for May 17-19, in Hillsdale, Michigan.  At this event,

NAD+... The Fountain of Youth

Please see below an Op-Ed, which was published in the April 2024 Destin Life. It was written by Scot Andrews of Prime IV Hydration & Wellness Destin. Click on the image to enlarge it.

Auditions for NFB Académie 2024-2025 Academic Year Scheduled for April 20 & 21

The Northwest Florida Ballet (NFB) Académie is now taking audition appointment reservations for the 2024-2025 academic year. All auditions will take place at the NFB Studios, the Sybil Lebherz Center for Dance Education, located at 310 Perry Avenue SE in Fort Walton Beach. Incoming third-grade students will audition on April 20 from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. and April 21 from 2:30 p.m.-4:30 p.m. Incoming fourth-grade students will audition on April 20 from 2:30 p.m.-4:00 p.m.   Appointment reservations are required

The NWFSC Aviation Center of Excellence Hosted a Signing Ceremony for FSU and 5 State Colleges in Northwest Florida

On Monday, March 25, 2024, Northwest Florida State College (NWFSC) hosted a signing ceremony at its Aviation Center of Excellence (ACE) in Crestview, Florida. Participants included Pensacola State College (PSC), Gulf Coast State College (GCSC), Tallahassee Community College (TCC), Chipola College, and Florida State University (FSU).   This ceremony served as the execution of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the colleges, signifying their commitment to collaborate on additive and advanced

Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation Showcases A Range Showcases A Range of Music At 2024 Concerts in The Village

Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation (MKAF) kicks off its highly-anticipated 2024 Concerts in the Village on Thursday, April 4.  The area’s first live concert series is held each spring on Thursday evenings at the MKAF Dugas Pavilion in Destin. This year’s 29th annual family-friendly series will run from April 4 to June 6. The 10-concert live music series will feature premier regional and national musicians and bands performing everything from rhythm & blues, classic and hard rock to disco to modern pop.  Here’s

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Beach Properties of Florida Recognized for Global Achievements

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Beach Properties of Florida is excited to share recent accolades earned by the real estate agency at the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Sales Convention in New Orleans, Louisiana on March 10-12.   The company received the Berkshire Elite Circle Award by ranking No. 26 in gross commission income, a prestigious designation given to the top 50 companies in the global network. Sales Executive Anne Winicki ranked No. 7 among individual agents in the global network receiving a

Hello Frances Podcast: Take Back Your Time

This week on the Hello Frances Podcast, our host, Shantelle Dedicke, reflects on the importance of making time for meaningful work. In a world where it’s all too easy to get lost in the hustle and bustle, she emphasizes the significance of carving out time and delegating tasks that align with others’ skills, offering actionable insights to help you strike a balance between must-do tasks and working on creative, meaningful projects. Listen now.  

Read the March 2024 Issue of Destin Life

ECCAC’s 25th Annual Gala & Golf Weekend a Big Success

Presented by Janice and George Hendricks, the community, sponsors, and supporters of the Emerald Coast Children’s Advocacy Center (ECCAC) came out once again to celebrate 25 years at this year’s annual signature happening, the Gala & Golf Weekend. It raised a significant $650,000 to help children and their families in Walton and Okaloosa Counties.  The Gala featured an energetic live auction with celebrity auctioneer, DawnMarie Kotsonis, also known as “The Gavel Girl.”  ECCAC board member Cindy Cole

Superintendent Marcus Chambers Offers Two $8,000 Florida Prepaid College Scholarship

Superintendent Marcus Chambers is very excited to have the opportunity to offer two $8,000 Florida Prepaid College Scholarship to a current Okaloosa County School District Student!Who qualifies?Student must be a SeniorStudent must attend a public high school in the Okaloosa County School DistrictStudent is going to pursue a career in educationStudent must meet the basic requirements to hold a Florida Prepaid College PlanApplication Deadline:Applications will be available beginning Friday, March 15, 2024 and

Okaloosa County to hold Town Halls for North Okaloosa Planning Study

Okaloosa County is moving forward with the next phase of a planning study to address the needs of the north end of the County as it continues its rapid growth. In addition to the public town hall meeting in 2023, two more town hall meetings have been scheduled in March 2024 as part of this process.  “We are excited to move forward with the next step of this study that will address how we can responsibly manage growth and progress in the County,” said Okaloosa County Board Chairman Paul Mixon. “We want to

6th Annual Mac & Cheese Festival Raises $60,000 for The Boys & Girls Clubs of the Emerald Coast

The 6th Annual Mac & Cheese Festival held on Sunday, March 10, 2024, at Destin Commons was a huge success. The event raised $60,000 in support of all local club kids.   The Boys & Girls Clubs of the Emerald Coast is a local non-profit organization whose mission is to promote and enhance the development of boys and girls by instilling a sense of competence, usefulness, belonging, and influence through its programs focused on academic success, good character and citizenship, and healthy lifestyles. "Our

Okaloosa County School District to Host 2024 Career and Technical Education Career and College Signing Day

Okaloosa County School District Superintendent Marcus Chambers and the Career and Technical Education (CTE) Department invite media members to the 5th Annual Career and College Signing Day. The event will occur on Thursday, March 28, from 10 a.m. to noon at Mattie Kelley Arts Center, 100 E College Blvd, Niceville. This event will recognize the necessary steps our CTE students are taking to continue their career and technical education after high school, ensuring a skilled future workforce for our community

The NWFSC Aviation Center of Excellence to Host Signing Ceremony for FSU and 5 State Colleges in Northwest Florida

The media are invited to join Northwest Florida State College (NWFSC), Pensacola State College (PSC), Gulf Coast State College (GCSC), Tallahassee Community College (TCC), and Chipola College for a signing ceremony with Florida State University (FSU) at NWFSC’s Aviation Center of Excellence in Crestview, Florida.  This ceremony will serve as the execution of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the colleges signifying their commitment to collaborate on additive and advanced manufacturing, aerospace

Paddle at the Park Set for May 11 at The Boardwalk on Okaloosa Island

The 12th Annual Paddle at the Park Sponsored by HCA Florida Destin Emergency will take place in the Gulf of Mexico behind The Boardwalk on Okaloosa Island on Saturday, May 11, 2024. This standup paddleboard race features 1- and 3-mile recreational races, a 6-mile elite race and a kids' fun out-and-back paddle. Racers and spectators alike will enjoy the festive atmosphere with displays and booths set up along the beach. The races have staggered start times, beginning at 9 a.m. The event will conclude with

Hello Frances Podcast: Surviving the Social Silence: Life Beyond Facebook & Instagram

This week on the Hello Frances Podcast, our host, Shantelle Dedicke is joined by Frances Roy Agency Senior Director of Content & Marketing, Hillaree Somerville to discuss the importance of diversifying your marketing efforts across various platforms. They delve into the recent Facebook and Instagram outage, share invaluable insights on adapting to unexpected challenges in the digital landscape, and much more! Listen now.

Kloud 7 Introduces a New Way to Reach Your Clients

Ready to revolutionize the way you connect with your clients? Kloud 7 LLC would like to introduce Transmit, the game-changing platform where impactful communication meets unparalleled success. With Transmit, you can effortlessly spread your message to the world, maximizing engagement and conversions like never before. Say goodbye to traditional marketing hurdles and hello to a new era of effective communication. Unlock unparalleled connectivity and security with our Managed Network Solutions, designed to

Notice of 45-Day Public Comment Period for the Choctawhatchee Bay and Watershed Comprehensive Conservation and Management Plan

This is notice that Choctawhatchee Bay Estuary Coalition has drafted a Comprehensive Conservation and Management Plan and Executive Summary to be submitted to the US Treasury in accordance with the RESTORE Act.  The Plan and Executive Summary will be made available to the public on March 7, 2024 for a period of 45 days.   The Plan and Executive Summary are available at https://choctawbay.org or to view in person, please contact Melinda Gates, Interim Executive Director, at (850)892-8108 or Sabina

Tammie Bowyer Honored as Destin Chamber’s Business Person of the Quarter

– During the Destin Chamber’s March 8 Business Before Hours Sponsored by Bit-Wizards, Tammie Bowyer (above right), owner of Stepping Stones Early Learning Academy, was honored with the Chamber’s Business Person of the Quarter Award. This award is presented directly from the Chamber’s Board of Directors to a Destin area businessperson showing vision for his or her business and leadership in our community. Bowyer is seen above with the Chamber's 2024 Chairman of the Board Christian Carlee of

Read the March 2024 Issue of VIP Destin Magazine

Boys & Girls of the Emerald Coast Opens Summer 2024 Registration

Registration for Boys & Girls Clubs of the Emerald Coast summer program is now open. All registration will take place through the online parent portal. Learn more and register here.   

Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation Calls for Artist Applications and Poster Art Artists for 29th Annual Festival of the Arts

Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation's Festival of the Arts is one of the Southeast's premier festivals and showcases more than 100 artists from across the U.S. The Festival is a celebration of art, music, food, and family fun and features a live music lineup, Cuisine on the Green, a wine and beer garden, art activities for kids, merchandise, and more.  The 29th annual Festival will be held on Saturday, Oct. 26, and Sunday, Oct. 27 in the Mattie Kelly Cultural Arts Village in Destin, Florida.  This is a juried

HCA Florida Hospitals Announce Dr. Dan Hagler as Chief Medical Officer

Dan Hagler, M.D., has been appointed chief medical officer (CMO) of HCA Florida Fort Walton-Destin Hospital and HCA Florida Twin Cities Hospital, as of March 4. In this role, Dr. Hagler will lead the clinical and quality initiatives that support consistent clinical performance and practice standards across HCA Florida Fort Walton-Destin Hospital and HCA Florida Twin Cities Hospital. Dr. Hagler brings more than 20 years of senior leadership experience with a proven track record of improving quality and

Two NWFSC Students Named 2024 Coca-Cola Academic Team Scholars

Two Northwest Florida State College (NWFSC) students have been named as 2024 Coca-Cola Academic Team Scholars.   •Arya Patel, Gold Scholar, from the Chautauqua Center  •Mary Vanderkooy, Bronze Scholar, from the Robert L F Sikes Education Center  Sponsored by the Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation, the Coca-Cola Academic Team program annually recognizes 150 scholars—50 Gold, 50 Silver, and 50 Bronze—with nearly $200,000 in scholarships. Each scholar is awarded a monetary scholarship and a commemorative

Flights & Bites Announces Exclusive Offer for Chamber Members

Exclusive Chamber Members Discount Offering: Go to our website and register to WIN! Flights & Bites, the Emerald Coasts’ premiere, virtual wine boutique is offering free memberships and $20 online gift coupons during the month of March for Chamber Members (required 21+ years). Members’ benefits include earned points for every purchase, special promotions, discounts on various wines and wine products, tasting event discounts, early release promotional wines (before general public), and palate assessments

Destin Water Users, Inc. Unveils Richard F. Griswold Building

On Monday, March 4, Destin Water Users, Inc. (DWU) celebrated the completion of their newest building, the Richard F. Griswold Building, with a ribbon cutting ceremony and dedication luncheon. Located at 14 Industrial Park Lane, the Richard F. Griswold Building started out as a dream that began in 2010 when then DWU general manager, Richard Griswold, began making plans to convert the existing inventory buildings into offices to consolidate all the plant personnel under one roof. His hope was to improve

NWFSC Forensics Speech and Debate Team Triumphs at FCSAA State Championship

On February 9th and 10th, 2024, the Northwest Florida State College (NWFSC) Forensics Speech and Debate Team triumphed, demonstrating exceptional skills at the Florida College System Activities Association (FCSAA) State Championship. Held virtually, students from 28 schools within the Florida College System competed.  The NWFSC team placed in eleven competitions, with four students winning individual honors. Among them, Aleksandria Herr received the Shira Brownstein Award, which commemorates Tallahassee

Okaloosa County Jail Celebrates Inmate Success with ‘Anchored’ Program

On March 5, 2024, a significant milestone was achieved within the walls of the Okaloosa County Jail as 34 men successfully completed Phase I of the transformative "Anchored" program, administered by the Emerald Coast Life Center. This faith-based initiative is designed to equip participants with the tools and mindset necessary to break the cycle of recidivism and substance abuse. “While we are committed to ensuring the safety of our inmates while they are in the jail, we can also make an effort to better

Minto Communities USA Receives NAHB 55+ Housing Silver Award for Latitude Margaritaville Watersound Town Square Amenity

 Minto Communities USA was recognized with a National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) 55+ Housing Silver Award at the 2024 International Builders Show (IBS) held in Las Vegas, Nevada, February 27-29. Minto’s Latitude Margaritaville Watersound amenity center won the silver “Best in 55+ Housing Award” in the Best Community Amenity category.  Latitude Margaritaville Watersound is located on Northwest Florida’s Emerald Coast between Pensacola and Panama City, near Panama City Beach, Florida. Latitude

Florida House Passes Bill Modernizing Florida's Baker and Marchman Acts

Today, the Florida House of Representatives voted unanimously in favor of CS/CS/HB 7021 - Mental Health and Substance Abuse, a bill aimed to significantly modernize Florida’s Baker and Marchman Acts, improving the navigation, service delivery and expected outcomes of the state’s mental health system. Thanks to the championship of State Representative Patt Maney and leadership of House Speaker Paul Renner, the major improvements would be the first made to the Acts in 53 years and 30 years,

Stepping Stones at Roane Provides Structured Early Learning for Ages 1-5 in Destin

On Feb. 29, Stepping Stones at Roane celebrated a ribbon cutting with the Destin Chamber. Stepping Stones at Roane is a Preschool for children ages 1-5 that provides an adventurous setting for those in their early learning years to flourish. Its goal is to teach children to love God, provide a positive foundation for a life-long love of learning, and promote independence with a focus on social and emotional aspects of a child’s development. The preschool offers a structured curriculum along with exposure

Vendor Registration for The Destin Seafood Festival is Open

Beau Halo Luxury Salon Celebrates Grand Opening in Destin

On Feb. 27, Beau Halo Luxury Salon celebrated a ribbon cutting with the Destin Chamber. Beau Halo Luxury Salon's goal is to transform the lives of clients by providing exceptional hair care services for the ultimate in hair health and beauty. Let its team of stylists help you create your dream look. Book your appointment at www.beau-halo.com, and visit the beautifully remodeled space at 4705 Furling Ln. Ste. 109, in Destin. Be sure to mark your calendars for Beau Halo Luxury Salon's Grand Opening

Regatta Bay Exclusive

Regatta Bay is a community filled with freshwater wonders, where lakes overflow with life, and fishing enthusiasts find their happy place. Two young brothers, Bennett and Grayson Vlahos, aged six and nine, respectively, have a special connection with water and a love for the art of angling. Their fishing expedition was a typical day, but what followed was nothing short of spectacular. However, the essence of their tale isn't solely about the bass but the excitement of the journey and the joy of childhood

Northwest Florida State College Expands Access to Skill Training for Childcare Providers

Northwest Florida State College (NWFSC), in collaboration with the Early Learning Coalition of the Emerald Coast, is excited to announce a new initiative to address workforce gaps in the early childhood education space. NWFSC and the Early Learning Coalition of the Emerald Coast will offer a cohort of classes to child care providers to earn staff and director-level credentials.  This initiative is inspired by the charges of both the Florida Department of Education and the Division of Early Learning to help

Hello Frances Podcast: Isn’t It ALL Seasonal?

This week on the Hello Frances Podcast, our host, Shantelle Dedicke shares a fresh perspective on seasonal marketing. She urges you to look at everything you’ve created since the beginning of this year and ask, are you achieving your desired impact, or is it time for a reevaluation? Listen now.  

Warren Averett Recognized On USA Today's 2024 America's Most Recommended Tax Firms

Warren Averett CPAs and Advisors, one of the largest accounting and consulting firms in the Southeast, has been recognized on USA Today’s 2024 America’s Most Recommended Tax Firms and America’s Most Recommended Accounting Firms lists.  USA Today partnered with Statista to create the national lists of highly recommended firms for tax and accounting services; results are based on thousands of surveys and recommendations from both accounting professionals and clients.  While this is USA Today’s inaugural

Bit-Wizards & TalkingParents Awarded American Advertising Federation Gold and Silver Addys

Fort Walton Beach, FL – February 22, 2024– For the 14th year in a row, the Bit-Wizards and TalkingParents team was awarded Gold and Silver “ADDYs” by the Pensacola Chapter of the American Advertising Federation. The ADDY Awards are the largest and most representative competition in the advertising industry, recognizing and rewarding the creative spirit of excellence in the art of advertising.  For their work in 2023, the team received two Gold and six Silver ADDYs, totaling eight awards. Recognition

Forever Warriors, Powered by Step One Automotive Group, Announces Participation in Upcoming Events to Support Military and Local Communities

Forever Warriors, in collaboration with Step One Automotive Group, is proud to announce its involvement in a series of events designed to engage and support military personnel, their families, and the broader community. With activities ranging from gaming conventions to fitness challenges and community festivals, Forever Warriors is dedicated to broadening its reach and impact within the military community by meeting them where they are.  Pensacon: Gaming Everything•Date: February 23-25, 2024•Location:

Minto Communities USA ranked 13th among Top 100 Private Home Builders in U.S.

Minto Communities USA has been ranked 13th among the Top 100 Private Home Builders in the U.S. by Home Builder Executive magazine. Rankings are determined based on 2023 home closings. Minto was ranked 18th on the list in 2022. In addition, Minto ranked second on Home Builder Executive’s list of Top 10 Private Home Builders in the U.S. for greatest gain in closings for the same time period. Minto had 2,350 closings in 2023, resulting in a 33% increase over 2022 closings.  Total revenue in 2023 was $1.24

Hand Arendall Harrison Sale Best Law Firm In Destin

Hand Arendall Harrison Sale LLC (HAHS), has been announced for the third consecutive year as the best law firm in Destin, Florida.“It is with gratitude to all who voted for us that we announce that our location in Destin has again, been voted best law firm,” stated Dion Moniz, attorney and law office manager for the Destin firm location.  “With the Destin office being one of our eight locations, we have an outstanding team throughout the southeast to support our local community efforts and objectives in the

Okaloosa County’s Shoal River Ranch Gigasite recognized with prestigious ‘Select Site’ distinction by CSX Railroad

Okaloosa County’s Shoal River Ranch Gigasite has joined an elite group of locations across the country as a “Select Site” at the Bronze Level by CSX Railroad, the leading supplier of freight transportation in North America. Shoal River Ranch is one of 19 sites nationwide that received “Select Site” status which positions the County to attract significant economic development. “We are excited to receive this distinction and are proud of the work One Okaloosa EDC has done to achieve this national

Cox Enterprises Announces STEAM-Powered Classroom Challenge with DonorsChoose to Provide Teachers with Essential Classroom Materials

Cox Enterprises is piloting a partnership with DonorsChoose, an education nonprofit empowering public school teachers to request essential classroom materials. The Cox Enterprises STEAM-Powered Classroom Challenge will match up to $100,000 in individual community contributions dollar-for-dollar on qualified STEAM and sustainability-related DonorsChoose projects in schools in under-resourced communities.  Cox is dedicated to empowering the next generation of STEAM leaders with diverse skills, the gifts of

Cultural Art Alliance of Walton County Announces Foster Gallery's Spring Rotation Artists

The Cultural Arts Alliance of Walton County (CAA) is proud to announce the regional artists recently chosen to exhibit their original work in The Foster Gallery’s Spring Rotation, which runs February 21st, through June 22nd, 2024 in its Miramar Beach Creative Campus location at 13370 Emerald Coast Parkway (US Highway 98). The public is invited to attend a special evening celebrating art and creativity on Thursday, March 7th from 5 p.m. - 7 p.m. where they can enjoy a live demonstration with Spring Rotation

Warren Averett Named One Of Clearlyrated's Best of Accounting

Warren Averett CPAs and Advisors received ClearlyRated’s Best of Accounting Award for the first time.  ClearlyRated is a leading provider of survey tools and expertise for professional service firms. They help professional service firms collect actionable feedback from clients and employees so that the businesses can use the critical insights to improve.  The Best of Accounting Award recognizes accounting firms that have delivered exceptionally high levels of client service based exclusively on ratings

Hello Frances Podcast: Love Your Marketing Strategy

This week on the Hello Frances Podcast, our host Shantelle Dedicke talks about one of her favorite topics: Marketing Strategy. She explains the things you need to take into consideration when creating a marketing strategy, ways you can implement one in the digital age, and much more! Listen now.  

Northwest Florida State College Partners with the Florida Department of Corrections to Provide Workforce Training

Northwest Florida State College (NWFSC) is thrilled to reveal the expansion of its workforce training programs tailored for inmates ready to transition into society. Inmates will be trained in sought-after skills in the Trades and Heavy Equipment Machinery sectors at Okaloosa Correctional Institution. Furthermore, those at Santa Rosa Prison will be able to enhance their abilities in Welding and Construction. The Florida Department of Corrections (FDC) will be selecting individuals based on time served,

Okaloosa County School District Kindergarten and New Student Registration Now Open

It is that time of year! Incoming kindergarteners and students new to the Okaloosa County School District for the 2024-2025 School Year can begin registering for school now. Parents will need to create a Focus Parent Portal Account to start the process.   Parents will use their Focus Parent Portal Account to: View their student (s) class schedule and grades View attendance View discipline Communicate with teachers  Create a Parent Portal Account   To enroll, families must use their child's legal

Big Brother Larry Gillespie Wins Prestigious State of Florida Big of the Year Award

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwest Florida proudly announces Larry Gillespie as the recipient of the 2024 Big Brother of the Year for the State of Florida! This prestigious award recognizes Larry's outstanding dedication and commitment to fostering a meaningful relationship with his Little Brother, Zorrian, over the span of 8 years. Larry has been a transformative force in Zorrian's life, helping him come out of his shell and instilling confidence through a variety of shared experiences. Their bond has

Eco Clean Marine Wins Prestigious ICON 2024 National Award and Welcomes New Sponsors Amidst Rapid Organizational Growth

Eco Clean Marine, a Gulf Shores-based nonprofit advocate for waterway conservation and cleanliness, is thrilled to announce its victory in securing the ICON 2024 national award by Iconic USA. This recognition is a testament to the organization's dedication to environmental literacy, community engagement in conservation efforts, and its leadership in initiatives aimed at safeguarding marine and aquatic ecosystems.  Eco Clean Marine has experienced remarkable growth in just two years, swiftly becoming a

Read the February 2024 VIP Destin Magazine

Newman-Dailey Recognizes the 2023 Real Estate Top Performers

Newman-Dailey Real Estate announces the remarkable achievements of its top performers for 2023. Newman-Dailey’s Real Estate Sales Division proudly recognizes Shannyn Stevenson with the Top Sales and Top Listing Agent Awards, reaffirming her dedication to excellence in the Gulf Coast real estate market. Other 2023 Top Producers include Heather Sprigler, the second highest performing agent for listings and sales; Diane Green, the third highest performer for sales; and Colin Kirkwood, third highest volume of

Okaloosa County School District First Semester Highlights

As we embark on the start of a new semester, I would like to share with our families and community members our highlights on District projects, programs, and successes during the first semester of the school year. As Superintendent, it fills my heart to see the successes of our students excelling in academics, the arts, and athletics. I also see our teachers and administrative staff giving their all to build a positive school culture and prepare our students for college, the military, and the workforce. So

NWFSC to Receive Funding from the Workforce Development Capitalization Incentive Grant Program

Last week, Governor DeSantis announced Northwest Florida State College (NWFSC) as a recipient of the Workforce Development Capitalization Incentive Grant. NWFSC plans to further incorporate Artificial Intelligence (AI) skills and coursework into its Computer Science and Cybersecurity curriculum, effective Summer 2024. The introduction of these courses aligns with the College’s commitment to providing students with innovative educational opportunities that meet the demands of the ever-evolving technology

BookingCentral.com Adds Renter Insurance at Checkout

BookingCentral is excited to announce its new partnership with Buoy, a leading provider of boat renters insurance. This partnership introduces an essential feature to BookingCentral’s platform, enabling operators to offer renter insurance directly at checkout across all 50 states. Historically, many renters have not realized the absence of insurance coverage during boat rentals. This integration addresses that gap. Operators using BookingCentral’s versatile system for boat rentals can now enhance their

NWFSC student Lillian Roller Selected to Serve on the FCSSGA State Executive Board as Chair of the Temporary Committee

Northwest Florida State College (NWFSC) student Lillian Roller has been selected to serve on the Florida College System Student Government Association (FCSSGA) State Executive Board as the Chair of the Temporary Committee. As the Chair, Roller will lead the planning efforts for the Student Leadership conferences in February and April. These two Florida Conferences host representatives from all twenty-eight Florida College Student Government Associations. In her role, she will report directly to the FCSSGA

Sinfonia Gulf Coast Announces Fashion Icon and Cabaret Sensation Isaac Mizrahi as Guest Artist for Crescendo! A Cultural & Culinary Event Extravaganza

Sinfonia Gulf Coast, our region’s only fully professional symphony orchestra, is pleased to announce more delicious details for its annual fundraiser Crescendo! A Cultural and Culinary Event Extravaganza, slated for March 1-3, 2024.  The annual “fun-raiser” weekend culminates with Crescendo! Main Event set for Sunday, March 3 at 11:30 a.m. at the Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa in Miramar Beach.  A highlight of Crescendo! Main Event is the live performance showcase by the special guest artist.

Okaloosa County Schools to Recognize and Observe Hope Week

Okaloosa County Schools will recognize and observe HOPE WEEK Monday, February 12, through Friday, February 16. We encourage community members to wear yellow on Thursday, February 15, the National Day of Hope. HOPE WEEK and Day of HOPE bring us together to raise awareness of suicide prevention and mental wellness to destigmatize mental health issues and empower our students, faculty, and community members to ask for help when they are in an emotional crisis. During HOPE WEEK, students and staff will

Okaloosa Extension Agent Recognized by DAR for Decades of Conservation Service

Okaloosa County UF/IFAS Extension Services Agent Sheila Dunning was awarded the prestigious Conservation Award by the Choctawhatchee Bay Daughters of the American Revolution during a ceremony on Feb. 1, 2024. The award recognizes volunteers with distinguished conservation efforts which include sustained accomplishments that improve the environment and educate the public on conservation issues while exceeding job expectations. “We are fortunate to have such a devoted and passionate agent like Sheila,” said

Prime IV Hydration and Wellness Offers IV Hydration Therapy in Destin

On Feb. 1, Prime IV Hydration and Wellness – Destin opened its doors with a ribbon cutting and grand opening celebration. IV Hydration Therapy is low risk and minimally invasive. It is administered by skilled and medically licensed staff, who offer a full evaluation prior to your drip. Prime IV's drips are specifically formulated with rich vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and amino acids, designed to increase energy, boost your immune system, decrease inflammation, aid in muscle recovery and even help you

Ascension Sacred Heart Pensacola and Emerald Coast Launch New Postpartum Health Initiative

Ascension Sacred Heart Pensacola and Emerald Coast are taking part in the state’s first postpartum wristband initiative. The new program involves giving a silver rubber wristband to mothers to voluntarily wear for up to a year postpartum. This would prioritize them as patients and spotlight their medical history in case they seek care through EMS, ERs or other medical sites.  “This campaign is all about empowering our postpartum patients to speak up when they feel like something is off, and ensuring that

Bit-Wizards Highlights Hazards of Poor Password Security on National Change Your Password Day

Managed IT Services (MITS) provider Bit-Wizards encourages business owners and their employees to evaluate their overall password security in light of National Change Your Password Day. Over 80% of confirmed breaches are related to stolen, weak, or reused passwords. Even though almost 90% of people recognize the risk of reused or similar passwords, only 12% follow best practices. With recent cyberattack trends leveraging tools like social engineering and AI for identity theft and other breaches, proper

Richardson Named Shareholder with Emmanuel Sheppard & Condon

Emmanuel Sheppard & Condon (ESC) is pleased to announce Jennifer Shoaf Richardson has become a shareholder with the Firm.   “The firm is very pleased to welcome Jennifer Shoaf Richardson to the ranks of shareholder,” said Wes Reeder, ESC Firm President. “Jennifer has long proven herself to be a skilled and capable attorney who represents her clients with total commitment, passion, and professionalism. She is certainly already a valuable practitioner within our firm and her ascension to shareholder

Large Research Vessel Deployed as Artificial Reef in Northwest Florida through Wide-Reaching Tourism Collaboration

The northern Gulf of Mexico has a new addition to its extensive artificial reef system with the deployment of the 239-foot R/V DEEP STIM III. The vessel, deployed on Jan. 30, 2024, joins hundreds of other artificial reefs already deployed off the shores of Northwest Florida and will serve as a haven to support various marine species while simultaneously providing the fishing and diving industry with an additional resource. The successful deployment of R/V DEEP STIM III was accomplished through a Tri-County

NWFSC Welcomes 2024 Spring Students and Celebrates Seventh Consecutive Semester of Increased Enrollment

Northwest Florida State College (NWFSC) welcomed back students for the Spring 2024 semester, marking a seventh consecutive semester of increased enrollment. Enrollment numbers for Spring 2024 are up over 12% from Spring 2023. The substantial growth in student numbers that the College has experienced over the past two years highlights its considerable ongoing expansion, the high caliber of its academic programs, and a vibrant campus life.  “This notable rise in enrollment is a testament to the College’s

NWFSC Broadens Admission Options with Classic Learning Test (CLT) Acceptance

Last month, Northwest Florida State College (NWFSC) expanded its admission pathways by accepting the Classic Learning Test (CLT) as an entrance examination for college admission and college readiness.   With the addition of the CLT, Northwest Florida State College acknowledges the importance of broadening access to higher education. This is particularly relevant for the region’s dual enrollment students, those matriculating from private schools, and/or homeschooled students.   The CLT serves as an

Hello Frances Podcast: Happy Colors with Estelle Grengs

This week on the Hello Frances Podcast, our host Shantelle Dedicke is joined by local artist Estelle Grengs to discuss the psychology of color in branding. Estelle shares how she uses color in her brand and her artwork, how you can use different colors within your business to invoke specific emotions, and so much more! Listen now.  

January 2024 Update from One Okaloosa EDC

By Nathan Sparks, CEcD Executive Director of One Okaloosa EDC We sincerely hope that each of you are experiencing a healthy and prosperous New Year thus far, and hopefully your New Year’s Resolutions are all still intact! While I won’t comment on the status of my ill-fated Resolutions (exercise – really?), I am happy to share that the One Okaloosa team picked up right where we left off in 2023. In fact, the first three weeks of the New Year have brought forth a diverse and gratifying workload. From

Klean Wash LLC - The Emerald Coast’s Highest Google Ranked Laundry

Klean Wash LLC, a family-owned boutique laundry under the ownership of Jerry and Doreen Baca since June 2018 has hit a milestone; the TEAM recently achieved the highest Google ranked laundry facility on the Emerald Coast with a 4.9 rating and 849 reviews and counting. Bacas said, “Customer service has always been a Klean Wash hallmark;  however, with the seasoned leadership of our new General Manager, Vandy Vela, we shifted our resources to a laser focus on customer satisfaction.  ‘Hiring our Lead Laundry

Be the Magic Foundation Makes Record-Breaking Contributions in 2023

Bit-Wizards’ Be the Magic Foundation (BTMF) proudly reinforced its support of the local community in its third year. Through various partnerships, 23 local nonprofits, organizations, and students received $156,943 in cash donations and over $363,680 in services and volunteer support throughout 2023. In total, BTMF contributed $520,625, the most significant donation amount to date.   Founded in 2021, BTMF aims to make the future of Northwest Florida stronger and more viable through the support of Youth

Hilton Garden Inn - Destin/Miramar Beach Offers Special Rate to Locals

2024 Read to Feed

Minto’s Westlake and three Latitude Margaritaville Communities Named Among Top 50 Master-Planned Communities in U.S.

Minto Communities USA announces that four award-winning Minto master-planned communities have been named among the top 50 master-planned communities in the U.S. for 2023. The Top 50 rankings were released by two prestigious firms, John Burns Real Estate Consulting and RCLCO Real Estate Consulting, that publish annual lists of the Top 50 Master-Planned Communities in the U.S.  The Minto communities included in the Top 50 are Latitude Margaritaville in Daytona Beach, Florida, Latitude Margaritaville Hilton

NWFSC Seagrass Restaurant Announces 2024 Spring Dinners

Northwest Florida State College’s Culinary and Hospitality Management programs present the Seagrass Restaurant student learning lab Spring Dinners, beginning February 8. The attached flier provides dates, themes, prices and reservation information.        Dinner Details:  •Reception begins at 5:30pm, with dinner seating at 5:50pm  •Banquet-family style, Set theme menu (sample menus attached)  •Tables set for 6 people (reservations available for parties of 2, 4 or 6 people)  •$35 dinner only; $45 dinner and

Destin American Legion Post 296 Hosts Local Competition for the National High School Oratory Scholarship Program

On Jan. 5, 2024, Davis-Sikes, Destin American Legion Post 296 hosted its local competition for the National High School Oratory Scholarship Program.  The purpose of the program is to develop a better understanding and appreciation of the Constitution of the United States on the part of high school students. The program is open to high School students in grades 9-12 who are U.S. Citizens.  Post 296 hosted three area high school students from both Destin High School and Fort Walton Beach High School.  Each

Read the January 2024 Issue of Destin Life

Prime IV Hydration and Wellness Ranked Among the Top Franchises in Entrepreneur Magazine's Highly Competitive Franchise 500

Prime IV Hydration and Wellness was recognized as one of the top 500 franchises in Entrepreneur’s Franchise 500®, the world’s first and most comprehensive franchise ranking. For 45 years, the annual Entrepreneur Franchise 500® has been a highly sought-after honor in the franchise industry and recognized as an invaluable resource for potential franchisees. The 2024 Franchise 500® ranks Prime IV Hydration and Wellness as #1 for its outstanding performance in areas including unit growth, financial strength

Destin Chamber Awards Outstanding Members During Awards Party & Wine Pairing Dinner

On Jan. 18, Destin Chamber members celebrated the Chamber’s most outstanding individuals and businesses, during the Awards Party & Wine Pairing Dinner Presented by Trustmark. Hosted by Brotula’s Seafood House & Steamer on the beautiful Destin Harbor, the event featured a cocktail reception and awards ceremony, before guests were treated to curated dinner and wine pairing.  The 2023 Destin Chamber Chairman Jason Belcher of FNBT Bank began the awards presentation by announcing the Paul Woolman Ambassador of

Gulfarium C.A.R.E. Center 2023 Recap

2023 Year in Review 2023 was a huge year at the Gulfarium C.A.R.E. Center! With a record number of sea turtles treated, multiple turtles tagged for research, and remarkable rehabilitation stories, this is certainly a year we will not soon forget. We cared for 133 sea turtles in 2023, and successfully released 119 turtles! With 3 turtles still currently in rehab at the C.A.R.E. Center, our overall rehabilitation success rate for the year was 92%! Of those 119 released turtles, 75 were Loggerheads, 31 were

Prime IV Hydration & Wellness- Destin Celebrates Grand Opening with Ribbon Cutting, Specials & Raffle

NWFSC Announces Money-Back Guarantee Program for Three Critical Workforce Programs: Nursing, Radiography, Paramedic

Today, President Stephenson announced a Money-Back Guarantee on three critical workforce programs. Students enrolled in the Northwest Florida State College’s nursing, radiography, or paramedic programs are now guaranteed their money back—a full refund of all tuition costs—if they are unable to find a job in the related field within six months of graduation.   “The Money-Back Guarantee Program is a testament to the quality of our faculty and staff and the college’s commitment to get students jobs

Read the January 2024 VIP Destin Magazine

Hello Frances Podcast: Back to Basics: Building a Brand from the Ground Up

This week on the Hello Frances Podcast, our host Shantelle Dedicke shares what you can expect from our podcast as we begin its fourth year of publishing and covers the main topic of discussion: building a brand from the ground up. She discusses what you should focus on when creating a brand and shares specific examples from Frances Roy Agency’s branding. Listen now.

NWFSC Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program Named by Forbes Advisor as one of the Nation’s Best Affordable Institutions in 2024 for RN to BSN Programs

The NWFSC Nursing RN to BSN degree program (Bachelor of Science in Nursing) is designed for licensed registered nurses.  This program provides nurses with the knowledge and skills to advance their careers to become nurse managers, case managers, hospital-based educators, and more. The program content addresses high-demand nursing specialties. Clinical instruction targets the specific needs of special populations, including community and family healthcare.

The Collegiate High School at Northwest Florida State College Receives “A” from the Florida Department of Education

The Collegiate High School (CHS) at Northwest Florida State College (NWFSC) received an “A” status based on student performance from the Florida Department of Education (FDOE) on December 11, 2023.  Proudly, CHS has maintained an “A” rating since its inception.  The Collegiate High School at NWFSC is ranked number one in Okaloosa and Walton Counties in English Language Arts, Mathematics, Science, Social Studies, Graduation Rate, and College and Career Acceleration. Additionally, CHS outperformed the

ECCAC announces 2024 board of directors: Renee Pellegrino is new President

At a recent board meeting, the Emerald Coast Children’s Advocacy Center (ECCAC) officially announced their 2023/2024 line-up of board members and officers, as well as naming their Executive Committee. Renee Pellegrino is their new President; Khaliqa Wheatley, Vice President; and Alan Wood, Treasurer. Other members are immediate past President, Janet Parker, along with Audie Rowell, Blake Morar, Candance Vlahos, Cindy Cole, Dr. Dennis Lichorwic, Heather Parrish, Michael Thompson, Neslihan Suhi-Moore,

Alaqua Animal Refuge Receives $20,000 Donation from the Harbor Rats Charitable Foundation

Alaqua Animal Refuge proudly announces a generous donation of $20,000 from the Harbor Rats Charitable Foundation, an increase from the $10,000 given last year. This contribution marks the second year of the Harbor Rats' support for the Refuge, further solidifying their commitment to community service and animal welfare. Marvin Holthouser, Chairman of the Harbor Rats Board of Directors, expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership. “We are so proud of the work that Alaqua has done over these many years

NWFSC Radiography Program Receives $10,000 Check from HCA Florida Fort Walton-Destin Hospital

Northwest Florida State College (NWFSC) is thrilled to announce a significant boost to its Radiography Program, thanks to a generous donation of $10,000 from HCA Florida Fort Walton-Destin Hospital. This contribution marks a transformative moment for the program, renowned for its commitment to cultivating highly skilled professionals in the healthcare sector.    The donation from HCA Florida Fort Walton-Destin Hospital is set to play a crucial role in the advancement of the NWFSC Radiography Program. It

Bridge the Mentorship Gap for Local Youth this National Mentoring Month

In alignment with National Mentoring Month, Big Brothers Big Sisters is launching a call to action for Northwest Florida to help close the mentorship gap for local youth. It's critical, now more than ever, to continue expanding mentorship's reach so that every child, regardless of their circumstances, receives the support, resources, and opportunities they need to thrive.  Currently, one in three kids in America are growing up without a sustained, positive adult mentor in their lives, and over 30,000 young

Café Thirty-A Raises Record-Breaking $64,000 for Caring and Sharing of South Walton

Café Thirty-A’s Annual Christmas Charity Ball, presented by honorary sponsors All Access Coach Leasing and Mercantile, was held on Saturday, December 2, 2023 and raised a record-breaking $64,000 for Caring and Sharing of South Walton, an organization that provides food and financial assistance to area families and individuals in need.    The sold-out event welcomed over 300 guests to the festively decorated restaurant, courtesy of The Grove Salon. Ticket holders were greeted with complimentary valet,

Read the December 2023 VIP Destin Magazine

Prime IV Hydration & Wellness Featured In VIP Destin Magazine

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Be the Magic Foundation Brings Holiday Cheer to Fresh Start For Children & Families

Several years ago, the Bit-Wizards team started their own holiday tradition of supporting the local community through its Be the Magic Foundation.  This year was no different as our very own Wizards created their own version of Santa’s workshop to make dreams come true for families in need. For the fourth consecutive year, Be the Magic decided that this year’s recipients would be the 27 children residing at Fresh Start For Children & Families.  Fresh Start’s mission is to share love and compassion through

Emerald Coast Theatre Company Opens Registration for 2024 Spring Educational Theatre Programs

Emerald Coast Theatre Company’s 2024 Spring Educational Theatre programs are so exciting this year! These programs provide creative and engaging classes designed especially for young thespians from preschool to high school, as well as adult classes. ECTC offers classes for Mini Players (K-1st), Little Players (2nd-3rd grade), Big Players (4th-5th grade), teens, and adults. This year, ECTC is offering SpongeBob the Musical, Musical Theatre Workshop - Pop & Rock, Jazz and Tap for teens and adults, Controlling

Read the December 2023 Issue of Destin Life

Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park Officially Welcomes Resident Dolphins to New Habitat

Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park, located on Okaloosa Island in Destin-Fort Walton Beach, Florida, is excited to announce that their resident Atlantic bottlenose dolphins are making themselves at home in the long-awaited Dolphin Oasis.    Located on the north side of the park, Dolphin Oasis truly lives up to its name, boasting 2.2 acres of sandy dunes, palms, and the stunning emerald waters of the Florida Gulf Coast. After giving the dolphins time to acclimate to their new surroundings, Dolphin Oasis

Hello Frances Podcast: Q&A with THE Frances

This week on the Hello Frances Podcast, we’re resharing a previous listener-favorite episode featuring Frances Warner, Shantelle’s grandma and our agency’s namesake, in honor of her birthday this week! Frances (also known as Memaw) is a strong, hard-working woman who takes a no-fail approach to everything in life. She shares where she has traveled, her favorite place to visit, advice she would give her 18-year-old self, and much more! Listen now.

Okaloosa Technical College's Automotive Program Receives National Accreditation

The automotive training program at Okaloosa Technical College (OTC) in Fort Walton Beach has again received ASE Training Program accreditation from the ASE Education Foundation. OTC's automotive program has been accredited category of Automotive Service Technology (AST). To achieve this coveted recognition, the school's automotive training program underwent rigorous evaluation by the ASE Education Foundation. Areas evaluated according to nationally accepted standards included instruction, facilities, and

NWFSC Welcomes Dr. Henry Mack as Vice President for Academic Affairs

Northwest Florida State College (NWFSC) is proud to announce the appointment of Dr. Henry Mack as Vice President for Academic Affairs. Dr. Mack brings a wealth of experience to the role, having served as the higher education and workforce system head for the State of Florida for four years.   As chancellor, Dr. Mack was responsible for Florida’s public and nonpublic institutions of higher education—overseeing a $3 billion dollar budget with a combined K-20 student enrollment of 1.5 million, annually. He

Pelican Adventures Offers Free Loyalty Cards

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!  What a wonderful 2023 we had at Pelican Adventures Destin.  We're ringing in the New Year by offering a FREE customer loyalty punch card to all our Neighbors.  Buy six excursions and the seventh is FREE up to $100.  That's good for Fishing, Parasailing and Snorkeling Adventures.  Stop by Pelican Adventures, pick up your loyalty card and discover all the exciting adventures we have for you!

Okaloosa Arts Alliance Receives Generous $1,000 Donation from the German Club & Golden Age Club to Support Arts Grants

The Okaloosa Arts Alliance (OAA) is thrilled to announce the receipt of a generous $1,000 donation from the German Club and Golden Age Club.  The German Club and Golden Age Club's gracious donation will be allocated towards OAA's Arts Grants program, which will directly benefit a local school and arts organization in the upcoming spring.   "We are deeply grateful for the generosity of the German Club and Golden Age Club," said Amy Baty-Herbert, Executive Director of the Okaloosa Arts Alliance. "Their

Okaloosa County 2024 School District Parent Climate Survey Available Online

The Okaloosa County School District Parent Climate Survey is available now! We invite parents and guardians to take a moment to complete this valuable survey about your child's school. We rely on your feedback to continuously improve our schools. You can complete one survey per child enrolled. The survey is available in English and Spanish and will close on April 12, 2024.   English: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/Y93TKZ9   Spanish: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/3M3FB5Z   Please visit

Become a Department of Defense Family Childcare Provider

Nathanael and Anna Fisher of Emerald Coast Theatre Company Win The Florida Theatre Conference 2023 Distinguished Career Award

Emerald Coast Theatre Company (ECTC) is proud to announce that founders Nathanael and Anna Fisher have been awarded The Florida Theatre Conference 2023 Distinguished Career Award in the professional category. In 1986, the Florida Theatre Conference began recognizing individuals in the state of Florida that had made a contributing effort in the area of Community Theatre, Professional Theatre, University/College Theatre, Theatre for Youth, and High School Theatre. Each year the Board solicits names from the

First ''Thank a Teacher'' Recipient in Partnership with Okaloosa County School District

HCA Florida Fort Walton-Destin Hospital and Okaloosa County School District celebrated the first “Thank A Teacher” recipient, Robert Roeckers, Okaloosa STEMM Academy. Roeckers joined Okaloosa STEMM Academy for his first year of teaching with an undeniable enthusiasm and a commitment to fostering a love for learning among his students. His innovative approach to education, combined with his dedication to student success, has quickly made him a standout educator with his students and amongst peers. “This

Okaloosa County Receives A-rating from the Florida Department of Education

2023 Baseline School Grades were released by the Florida Department of Education (FLDOE) and the results are highly encouraging in the first year of a new statewide assessment. As a District, OCSD earned an A-rating from the Florida Department of Education once again. The District’s percentage of points jumped from 63% last year to 68% this year. Okaloosa is one of three districts in Florida to earn an A each year since 2014.  Superintendent Chambers notified Principals yesterday, stating, “I want to let

Emerald Coast Wildlife Refuge Calls All Mixologists & Chefs for Martini Gras

Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation Announces 2024 Concerts in the Village

Hear the entire Grammy Award-winning Purple Rain album performed live, reminisce with Fleetwood Mac classics, dance to funky disco beats and discover new pop vocalists from The Voice — all in the diverse lineup of the 2024 Concerts presented by Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation, offering something for every music lover.   The area’s first live concert series is held each spring on Thursday evenings at the MKAF Dugas Pavilion in Destin. This year’s 29th annual family-friendly series will run from April 4 to

Enter for a Chance to Win a $5,000 Jewelry Shopping Spree!

Elevate your style while making a difference! We are excited to announce a dazzling opportunity: For a donation of $100, you will be entered for a Chance to Win a $5,000 shopping spree at Beré Jewelers in Pensacola. All proceeds will support our mission to empower youth through mentoring relationships. The winner will be announced at The Big Gala: Cosmic Connections, Presented by the Pensacola Ice Flyers, on Saturday, Feb. 24, at Hilton Pensacola Beach.You do not have to be present to win. Click here to

Hello Frances Podcast: 2023 Insights: Straddling the Present and the Future - Take Away from Entreco

In this week’s episode of the Hello Frances podcast, our host Shantelle Dedicke concludes a four-part series of episodes where she shares insights from what she and the Frances Roy team have learned throughout the last year. She recently attended Entrecon where she heard the quote ‘Leaders stand in the future while working in the present.’ during a presentation from April Hansen. Shantelle discusses how leaders must balance doing the day-to-day work while still envisioning the future of their

Northwest Florida State College President Dr. Devin Stephenson Receives Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges Carol A. Luthman Meritorious Service Award

On Monday, December 4, 2023, Dr. Devin Stephenson, President of Northwest Florida State College (NWFSC), received the prestigious Southern Association of College and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) Carol A. Luthman Meritorious Service Award. This award was presented to Dr. Stephenson during the annual SACSCOC Conference in Orlando, Florida.Each year, the SACSCOC awards individuals across the Southern United States with Meritorious Service Awards for their faithful and dedicated service and

Step One Automotive Group Announces 25 Days of Giving

Food For Thought Asks for Community to Help Local Food-Insecure Children

Food For Thought has received $6,000 toward its holiday outreach and more than 4,000 food items! More is needed.  During the holidays, life can be tough for the 3,600 children who are food-insecure and enrolled in our programs. They are unable to access free or reduced-cost lunch during the school break. For some, this may be the only source of food they have.  In less than two weeks, FFT will be providing Christmas Services to feed 700 families. By sponsoring a family and donating food items, you can

Ribbon Cutting Celebrates 2023 Opening of Destin Snowbirds Roost

On Dec. 4, the Destin Snowbirds celebrated the annual opening of its roost with a ribbon cutting attended by Destin Chamber ambassadors and staff and community members.The Snowbirds Roost, officially located in the Destin Community Center, offers regular programs and special events to snowbirds visiting the area.  For more information, please call (850) 351-0672 or visit DestinSnowbirds.org.  

Okaloosa County EMS Implements New Lifesaving Blood Delivery Program

Okaloosa County is proud to announce the implementation of a new blood administration program that will allow Emergency Medical Services (EMS) staff to treat patients on emergency scenes with a portable supply of blood. This lifesaving program will increase the survivability of patients who have sustained major traumatic shock as well as conditions including gastrointestinal (GI) bleeds, post-partum hemorrhage, and other severely bleeding patients. “Providing efficient, quality aid for patients under our

Read the November 2023 Issue of Destin Life

9 Artists Selected For 6th Underwater Museum Of Art Installation

The Cultural Arts Alliance of Walton County (CAA) and South Walton Artificial Reef Association (SWARA) are proud to reveal the nine new sculpture designs, chosen by jury for permanent exhibition in the fifth installation of the Underwater Museum of Art (UMA).  The 2024 installation will include the following pieces of sculpture: The Lost Kingdom of Artemis by Denna Ameen (New Orleans, LA), Mermaid. Siren. Galatea. By Raine Bedsole (Santa Rosa Beach, FL), Deep Sea Three by Matthew Gemmell and David

Okaloosa County School District Implements First Annual Angel Tree Program

Superintendent Marcus Chambers and the District staff are hosting the first annual Okaloosa County School District Angel Tree Program to support students in need during the holidays. "Every day, our schools take care of our families, and we as a District want to add a layer of support by asking our community to join us in making sure our students have a happy holiday," stated Superintendent Marcus Chambers. There are two ways members of the public can sponsor a student. They can visit

Shannon Amos Joins ECCAC Board

The Emerald Coast Children’s Advocacy Center (ECCAC) recently announced its newest Board of Directors member Shannon Amos. Originally from Tennessee, Amos moved to the Florida Panhandle in 2005, where she has been a Destin resident with her husband and their 10-year-old daughter.  They also have three adult children. Amos is currently a real estate agent with World Impact Real Estate. She and her husband, Dr. Warren Amos, a radiation oncologist with Genesiscare, are in the real estate investment and rental

Gulfarium C.A.R.E. Center Releases Four Rehabilitated Sea Turtles

The Gulfarium C.A.R.E. Center successfully released four more rehabilitated sea turtle patients on Friday, November 17th, 2023 in Perdido Key, Florida.   After a record summer of turtle intakes, the Gulfarium C.A.R.E. Center has been relieved with the slowing down of the season. As the weather cools down, sea turtles swim towards deeper, cooler water, and their activity in the shore of the Emerald Coast lessens. This public release was presented by the Gulfarium C.A.R.E. Center staff and volunteers, and

November 2023 Update from One Okaloosa EDC

By Nathan Sparks, CEcD Executive Director of One Okaloosa EDC I hope that each and every one of you had a festive and enjoyable Thanksgiving holiday! For the team here at One Okaloosa EDC, Thanksgiving offered a much needed break. Fall tends to be one of our busiest seasons, and this year has certainly been no exception. Along with working projects, hosting prospect site visits, advocating for our vital military missions, participating in multiple marketing events, and conducting “thank you” visits to the

Destin Library Closed in December

The Destin Library will be closed starting December 4 and will reopen January 2, 2024. This closure is necessary to install new carpeting throughout the Library. Programing will be suspended while the building is closed, and the Library’s collection will be unavailable to patrons for check out. However, the Library will be open for the annual “Visit with Santa” event on December 1 at 6 p.m. Bring the kids for cocoa, cookies, and a picture with Santa Claus! If you have any questions, please contact the

Hello Frances Podcast: 2023 Insights: Power in Breathing

On this week’s episode of the Hello Frances podcast, our host Shantelle Dedicke continues a four-part series of episodes where she shares insights from what she and the Frances Roy team have learned throughout the last year. This week, she discusses the importance of intentional breathing - different from our daily instinctual breathing - and shares resources for learning more about breath work.Listen now.  

RE/MAX Coastal Properties Celebrates 36 Years In Business & Its Building's 50-Year History as Destin's First Real Estate Office

On Nov. 15, RE/MAX Coastal Properties celebrated a ribbon cutting in recognition of its 36 years in business and its building's 50-year history as Destin's first real estate office. The building was first constructed by Destin real estate pioneer John Cox in 1973. Owners Ed and Terri Smith are licensed real estate brokers, as well as having earned the professional designations of ABR (Accredited Buyer Representatives), CRS (Certified Residential Specialists), CDPE (Certified Distressed Property Experts),

Voted #4 Semi Private Golf Course in Florida by GolfDay

At Regatta Bay Golf & Yacht Club, we are proud to have been voted the #4 semi-private Golf Course in Florida by GolfDay. It is the only semi-private course north of Orlando to make the top four! Our stunning course, designed by acclaimed architect Robert C. Walker, offers a challenging yet enjoyable game for golfers of all skill levels. With meticulously maintained fairways and greens and breathtaking views of Choctawhatchee Bay, our course will impress even the most discerning golf enthusiasts. Regatta

Vote for VIP Destin Magazine's Best in Destin

Nominations are over! Now is the time to VOTE! The top ten nominees have moved on to phase two, it is now up to you to choose the Best in Destin. You can vote once per day between Monday, November 13, 2023 at 12:01 AM and Sunday, December 3, 2023 at 11:59 PM Central Time. Click here to vote.  

Step One Automotive Center of Excellence Training Center Grand Opening

Step One Automotive Group, in collaboration with Northwest Florida State College (NWFSC), is proud to announce the grand opening of the Automotive Center of Excellence Training Center. The ribbon cutting ceremony, set for today, marks an innovation milestone in the automotive and educational sectors.   This state-of-the-art facility, situated in Fort Walton Beach, Florida, exemplifies the best in automotive training and services. From a dedicated used car reconditioning center, excelling in oil changes

Local Organizations Improve Teens’ Mental Health

United Way Emerald Coast's Women United hosted their second EmpowHER Teen Mental Health Seminar presented by Eglin Federal Credit Union Saturday, Nov. 4 at Walton High School. This event is part of a series aimed to empower local teenagers with mental health resources and education. Women United selected Defuniak Springs as the location due to the high caseloads carried by counselors and the stigma surrounding mental health in the area.  The event featured interactive workshops and presentations from

HCA Florida Fort Walton-Destin Hospital and Okaloosa County School District Partner to Rollout Thank a Teacher Program

HCA Florida Fort Walton-Destin Hospital and the Okaloosa County School District (OCSD) announced today the launch of a Thank a Teacher—a joint partnership between HCA Florida Fort-Walton Destin Hospital and OCSD. Thank a Teacher is a program celebrating the Okaloosa County School District's dedicated educators. Throughout the 2023-2024 school year, students, families, and staff members are encouraged to share their stories about a particular teacher's inspiring actions, supportive words, creative lessons,

Make Your Holiday Party Booking at Ruby Slipper Destin

2023 Young Leader Awarded to Destinee Perdue

We are thrilled to announce that Destinee Perdue has been honored as one of the winners of the Young Leader Award from Marina Dock Age. Destinee started at HarborWalk Marina as a dock attendant in 2000 and has worked in many different positions to gain understanding and insight into marina management. In 2022, Destinee was awarded her CMM (Certified Marina Manager), placing her among the marina profession elites and showcasing her dedication to the environment and boater safety.  As Vice President of

Read the November 2023 VIP Destin Magazine

Hello Frances Podcast: 2023 Insights: Leadership - Do You Provide What You Expect?

On this week’s episode of the Hello Frances podcast, our host Shantelle Dedicke continues a four-part series of episodes where she shares insights from what she and the Frances Roy team have learned throughout the last year. This week, she poses the question “Do you provide the leadership you expect from others?”, and explains why this is important for leaders, managers, and even those who are led to consider.Listen now.

Food For Thought Releases 2022-2023 Annual Report

Food for Thought is pleased to announce that its Annual Report for the fiscal year 2022-2023 is now available. Thank you to all those who contributed their time, talents, and resources to make FFT's 12th year a success! View the annual report here.

Impact100 Northwest Florida Awards $400,000 to Local Nonprofits

Impact100 Northwest Florida awarded $100,000 grants to four local nonprofits at its Annual Meeting on Sunday, November 5, 2023, at the Island Resort in Fort Walton Beach. The organizations receiving grants are as follows: Arts & Culture - Heritage Museum of Northwest Florida: Exhibit Hall to Save Our Local Historical Treasures Education - Emerald Coast Science Center: Across the Universe: Planetarium Project Family - Northwest Florida Guardian ad Litem Foundation: Cases for Kids Health and Wellness -

Beachside Chiropractic & Wellness Offers Natural Approach to Healthcare

On Nov. 2, Beachside Chiropractic & Wellness celebrated a ribbon cutting. Beachside Chiropractic was created for people seeking a natural approach to healthcare. Services include chiropractic manipulative therapy, soft tissue therapies, x-ray imaging, functional nutrition assessments, health physicals, and more.  The office is located at 36468 Emerald Coast Pkwy. Ste. 11101., in Destin. Visit MyBeachsideChiro.com to book your appointment today.

Light Up The Island: A Display of Lights and Music

To kick off the most wonderful time of year, prepare to witness The Island Resort bathed in holiday cheer at, "Light Up The Island," on November 26, 2023, from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. This free public event promises a spectacular evening filled with festive music and an interactive lighting display that will set the resort aglow.  Last year featured performances by the Liza Jackson Band and the Fort Walton Beach High School Chorus. This year, we're excited to welcome back these talented groups, ensuring an

Cookies and Crafts with the Grump

The Island Resort presents its 4th Annual, "A Beachy Little Christmas," event this year on December 2, 2023, from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. This occasion, open to both hotel guests and local families, will take place on the beach patio, offering a unique holiday experience. Guests can sip on hot chocolate while enjoying live music and getting creative with themed crafts. The highlight of the event is the opportunity to meet the famous Misty the Mermaid, followed by a sandcastle-building session on the beach. Local

Christmas Craft and ''Elf'' Movie Screening

Mark your calendars for December 9th, as The Island Resort presents a new holiday addition and a special holiday treat in the lounge/bar area. From 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., guests can enjoy Christmas crafts and a screening of the beloved holiday classic movie, "Elf." It's the perfect movie to get into the holiday spirit with friends and family.

Double the Impact: Arby's Foundation Doubles Donations for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwest Florida's Birthday Celebration!

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwest Florida is celebrating 34 years of empowering youth and strengthening communities with a special celebration. In a powerful collaboration, the Arby's Foundation has pledged to match all donations dollar for dollar, up to an incredible $30,000 throughout the month of November. This generous gesture amplifies the impact of every contribution, making it a pivotal moment for supporters to get involved. "Turning 34 is a significant milestone for us," remarked Paula Shell,

Nominations Now Open for 2024 NWF FRLA's Hospitality Heroes

The Northwest Florida Chapter of the FRLA recognizes the best of the best in our industry each year with the Hospitality Hero Awards. Category nominees are honored at a prestigious banquet with a spectacular dinner, ceremony, and cash prizes. Categories include the following: Restaurant FOH Employee • Restaurant BOH Employee Restaurant FOH Manager • Culinary Manager • Bartender Hotel/Resort FOH Employee • Hotel/Resort BOH Employee Hotel/Resort Manager • Spirit of Hospitality • And More Nominations are

Register for or Sponsor FRLA's Northwest Florida Chapter Golf Classic on December 4

American Legion High School Oratory Scholarship Program

Welcome to the Destin American Legion Post 296 for our local competition for the National American Legion High School Oratorical Scholarship Program for grades 9-12. The purpose of The American Legion National High School Oratorical Contest is to develop a better understanding and appreciation of the Constitution of the United States on the part of high school students. Other objectives of the contest include: the development of leadership qualities; the ability to think and speak clearly and

Northwest Florida State College Announces Proposed Course Fees Effective Spring 2024

Northwest Florida State College's Board of Trustees will be meeting on November 28, 2023, at 3 p.m. to review proposed course fee changes on aviation course effective Spring 2024. This meeting is part of the College's routine evaluation and updates to course fees.   The proposed course and lab fees recommended for adjustment with the start of the Spring 2024 semester can be found at https://www.nwfsc.edu/tuition/.   As itemized in the list, these flight fees cover expenses unique to course offerings

The Okaloosa Arts Alliance Announces Board of Directors for 2023-24

The Okaloosa Arts Alliance (OAA) announces the Board of Directors for the current fiscal year. The Executive Board of Directors are President- Marlayna Goosby- Grow Your Gift Conservatory of Music, Vice President- Diane Fraser, Emerald Coast Science Center, Treasurer- Susan Kneller, Chair of the OAA Grants Committee, and Secretary-. The Board of Directors are Bill Head, Colonel (Ret), USAF, MSC, James K. Baughman Sr-Author, Jeanette Shires-Mattie Kelly Arts Center at NWFL State College, Niceville & NWFL

31st Flutterby Arts Festival

                The Cultural Arts Alliance of Walton County (CAA) announces the return of one of Walton County’s favorite fall events, the Flutterby Arts Festival, which will take place Sunday, November 12th from 10AM - 4PM in Watersound® Town Center. In its 31st year, the Flutterby Festival will feature many returning and new activities for kids of all ages, including arts & crafts projects, live performances, Art-O-Logy instructional classes, a student butterfly art exhibit, a butterfly wing creation

American Legion Destin Announces 2024 Florida American Legion Boy’s State Program

American Legion Boys State is among the most respected and selective educational programs of government instruction for U.S. high school students. A participatory program in which students become part of the operation of local, county, and state government, Boys State was founded in 1935 to counter the socialism-inspired Young Pioneer Camps. The program was the idea of two Illinois Legionnaires, Hayes Kennedy and Harold Card, who organized the first Boys State at the Illinois State Fairgrounds in

Thanksgiving Season with Food For Thought

Every year, Food For Thought Outreach provides special services to the families enrolled in our program for both Thanksgiving and Christmas. The food-insecure children we serve face increased needs while schools are closed for the extended holiday breaks. Our services help bridge the meal gap and ensure critical access to food. Together, we can help make this season one of comfort and joy for the families we serve in Walton and Okaloosa counties.  During the 2022 holiday season, we served 700 families

Ascension Sacred Heart Foundation’s first Wine Down Wednesday raises $10,000 for the Emerald Coast NICU and Family Birth Place

On September 27 Ascension Sacred Heart Foundation hosted a Wine Down Wednesday event benefiting Sacred Heart Emerald Coast Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) and Family Birth Place. The first-time event, held at Ambrosia 30A in Inlet Beach, raised $10,000 through ticket sales, donations, and raffle tickets.  Guests enjoyed heavy hors d'oeuvres, glasses of Caymus Wines, and live music by Jacob Mohr, courtesy of Indigo Watercolor. Attendees also had the opportunity to participate in a wine pull, sponsored

Okaloosa County Enacts Burn Ban

The Okaloosa County Board of County Commissioners passed a local State of Emergency on Tuesday, Oct. 31, 2023, giving it the authority to enact a burn ban for Okaloosa County, effective immediately.   After coordination with the Florida Forest Service, Commissioners agreed that the danger posed by the existing and forecast weather conditions that include low humidity, increased wind, and a lack of precipitation, justify an appropriate response in the best interest and safety of Okaloosa County

Holi Announces Holiday Food Drive Benefiting Local Food Banks

In the spirit of giving and gratitude, Holi, a local Indian restaurant with locations in Panama City, Fort Walton Beach, and Miramar Beach, is excited to announce how they plan to give back to the community this year. This holiday season Holi will host a non-perishable and canned food drive spanning all three of its locations, each benefitting a different local hunger relief organization. The drive begins November 1, 2023, and ends December 23, 2023.    Holi’s Fort Walton Beach location will be partnering

LegacyHouse Title’s Destin Office Celebrates Ribbon Cutting

On Oct. 26, LegacyHouse Title celebrated its new Destin office with a ribbon cutting. LegacyHouse Title's knowledgeable team of attorneys, title agents, examiners and closers have access to the latest technology to ensure its clients and partners have the best closing experience possible.  Visit the location at 4458 Legendary Dr. Ste. 210, in Destin's Regatta Commons office park. For more information, call (850) 200-0531 or visit LegacyHouseTitle.com.

Read the October 2023 Issue of Destin Life

Hello Frances Podcast: 2023 Insights: Mastering the Art of Saying No

On this week’s episode of the Hello Frances podcast, our host Shantelle Dedicke starts a four-part series of episodes where she shares insights from what she and the Frances Roy team have learned throughout the last year. This week, she discusses how to become a master of saying no, how this can preserve your mental health and the health of your business, and much more!Listen now.  

Looking for Holiday Party Venue? Check out East Pass Seafood & Oyster House and Brotula's Seafood House & Steamer!

FL Governor Ron DeSantis Appoints Five Board Members to NWFSC’s Board of Trustees

Governor Ron DeSantis of Florida has made five key appointments to the Board of Trustees at Northwest Florida State College (NWFSC).  Cory Fosdyck, Senior Vice President, and Senior Resident Director for Merrill Lynch is dedicated to community service. He’s spearheaded initiatives at the Emerald Coast Children’s Advocacy Center, offered his expertise to Ascension Sacred Heart Hospital, and once led the Walton County Chamber of Commerce. He is a Senior Vice President and Senior Resident Director for Merrill

Northwest Florida State College Featured in Season 9 of The College Tour Now on Amazon Prime Video

Northwest Florida State College (NWFSC) is featured in season 9 of The College Tour, a groundbreaking series from Emmy-nominated producers Alex Boylan, Lisa Hennessy, and Burton Roberts, now streaming on Amazon Prime Video. Hosted by The Amazing Race winner Alex Boylan, The College Tour travels the country telling the story of various institutions through the diverse lens ofstudents, giving the viewer an intimate portrayal of life on campus. Inspiring and motivating, the show serves as a vehicle to help

Live2Lead Leadership/Personal Growth Simulcast

Brunch with the Best

Jason Alves Participates in Leadership Northwest Florida Program

Jason Alves, CPA, a Member in the Audit and Transaction Advisory Divisions of Warren Averett’s Panama City office, has been selected to participate in Leadership Northwest Florida as part of its Class II.  Leadership Northwest Florida is an educational program offered to professionals in all industries that helps participants grow their knowledgebase, networks and skillsets. Twenty-two leaders were selected to participate in this year’s class.  Class II participants will be immersed in a seven-month

Okaloosa County Celebrates Reclaimed Water Pipeline with Ribbon Cutting Ceremony

Okaloosa County will be celebrating the completion of an 11.6-mile reclaimed water pipeline with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Oct. 20, 2023 at 10 a.m. at the Mullet Festival site in Niceville.   The new pipeline will allow residents and businesses to use reclaimed water, or treated wastewater, to irrigate their lawns instead of having to drill more wells into the aquifer.   “We are proud of the work performed by our Water and Sewer Department and are excited for the positive environmental and economic

State of FloridaAwards $9M for Seacoast Collegiate High School & Northwest Florida State College's Dual Enrollment & Workforce Development Center

The Seaside School, Inc., in partnership with Northwest Florida State College, announces a significant milestone in its mission to transform educational opportunities in Walton County. The partnership between The Seaside School, Inc., a public charter school, and Northwest Florida State College has garnered the approval of $9 million in state funding, facilitating the expansion of Seacoast Collegiate High School and the creation of a Dual Enrollment & Workforce Development Center. This transformational

United Way Emerald Coast Partners with Okaloosa County School District

The Okaloosa County School District has partnered with the United Way Emerald Coast to help build a foundation of early literacy, social-emotional development, and mentorship. ReadingPals is a statewide early literacy initiative that provides volunteer mentors for local students from voluntary prekindergarten to third grade who may need extra help. Once a mentor passes their background screening, they undergo training before getting placed in a classroom where they work at a 1:2 ratio.  For more

City Food Hall Introduces a Lineup of Themed Nights, Special Events, and New Coastal-Themed Bar Menu

City Food Hall, the culinary heart of Destin Commons, continues to shine as the hub of local gastronomy, hosting an eclectic community of chefs under one roof. Now, in addition to its diverse range of restaurant concepts, lively atmosphere, and TopGolf Swing Suites, City Food Hall is delighted to unveil an array of exciting themed nights, special events, and a brand-new coastal-themed bar menu. City Food Hall is the go-to destination for food and beverage enthusiasts as well as sports enthusiasts with their

Gulfarium C.A.R.E. Center is Awarded Funding by the Sea Turtle Grants Program 2023

The Gulfarium C.A.R.E. Center has been awarded a grant for $10,087.09 from the Florida Sea Turtle Grants Program. The C.A.R.E Center received the grant to help renovate a designated necropsy suite, as well as additional transport tubs to hold turtles for intake exams, release transport, dry docking after surgical procedures, and holding for necropsy. This grant will greatly increase the efficiency to conduct necropsies in a timely manner and increase the C.A.R.E. Center's knowledge and improve clinical

Jearl McCall Honored as Destin Chamber’s Business Person of the Month

During the Destin Chamber’s Oct. 13 Business Before Hours Sponsored by Hand Arendall Harrison Sale, Jearl McCall, Senior Executive Director of Golf at Emerald Bay Golf Club, was honored with the Chamber’s Business Person of the Month Award. This award is presented directly from the Chamber’s Board of Directors to a Destin area businessperson showing vision for his or her business and leadership in our community. McCall (right) is seen here with 2023 Chairman of the Board Jason Belcher of FNBT Bank. “Anyone

Read the October 2023 VIP Destin Magazine

Okaloosa Technical College Practical Nursing Program Announces 100% Pass Rate

Okaloosa Technical College's (OTC) Practical Nursing Program proudly announces that the 2022-2023 Class had a 100% pass rate for the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX), earning their licensed practical nurse certification (LPN). The fourteen-month-long program, approved by the Florida State Board of Nursing, prepares students to become quality, safe, practical nurses in all areas of the medical field. Nineteen students underwent the rigorous course of study split between 675 hours of classroom

Subaru Fort Walton Beach to Host 'Subaru Loves Pets' Event

Subaru Fort Walton Beach is set to host its ‘Subaru Loves Pets’ event on October 14, 2023 from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM, featuring a mega adoption event and the exciting Screen Test Day for potential canine stars. The day promises to be a blend of community love for animals and the thrill of the limelight for our furry companions. Subaru Fort Walton Beach, in collaboration with Saving With Soul Pet Rescue, invites all pet lovers and animal enthusiasts to join a day dedicated to the love and care of pets, aiming

NWFSC Hosts the 2023 HEI Presidents' Conference

  Northwest Florida State College (NWFSC) was honored to host the prestigious 2023 Higher Education Innovation (HEI) Presidents’ Conference from October 9-10, at its Niceville campus. This significant event attracted higher education leaders from all over the nation.    With the dynamic shifts in the higher education sector, HEI underscores the imperative for transformative change in both institutional structures and leadership approaches. This year’s conference theme centered on “The

Nominations Due for Best In Destin 2024

Enter your nominations for the Best In Destin 2024 once per day between Monday, Oct. 9, 2023, at 12:01 AM and Thursday, Oct., 26, 2023, at 11:59 PM Central Standard Time. You can vote once per day between Monday, Nov. 13, 2023, at 12:01 AM and Sunday, Dec. 3, 2023, at 11:59 PM Central Standard Time. Click here to get started.

Let's Talk Title: RPAC - What Is It & Why Is It So Important For Realtors

In this episode of Let’s Talk Title with Emerald Coast Title Services, Dion and Ashley are joined by special guest Cathy Alley. Cathy is a realtor for the Cathy Alley Team, an Elected Official for Niceville City Council, Chair for the RPAC of ECAR, Director for ECAR for Florida Realtors, Director for the National Association of Realtors for Florida Realtors, 2016 Past President for ECAR, 2017 Graduate of Leadership Academy for Florida Realtors, and 2018 DVP for District 9 for Florida Realtors. They discuss

Hello Frances Podcast: Launching SKADI Cyber Defense with Rachel Clark & Christie Buckley

On this week’s episode of the Hello Frances Podcast, our host Shantelle Dedicke is joined by SKADI Cyber Defense’s CEO Rachel Clark and President Christie Buckley. Shantelle is SKADI’s Chief Marketing Officer, rounding out this power trio that comprises the company’s leadership team. They talk about the recent launch of SKADI, an innovative incorporation that provides comprehensive and fully monitored end-to-end solutions to guard against ever-evolving digital threats.Listen now.  

Stretch Zone Destin Celebrates 1-Year Anniversary

On Oct. 5, Stretch Zone Destin celebrated its 1-year anniversary with a ribbon cutting. Unlock your body's flexibility with Stretch Zone. Let trained stretch practitioners lead you through a series of dynamic stretches to increase mobility and muscle function and make daily movements more efficient. Visit the Destin location at 4507 Furling Ln. Ste. 114. For more information, visit Stretchzone.com/locations/destin or call (850) 407-8088.

Happy National Arts & Humanities Month

October is National Arts & Humanities Month (NAHM)—a collective recognition of the importance of culture in America. NAHM was launched by Americans for the Arts more than 30 years ago as National Arts Week in honor of the twentieth anniversary of the National Endowment for the Arts and National Endowment for the Humanities. In 1993, it was reestablished by Americans for the Arts and national arts partners as a month-long celebration with goals of: FOCUSING on equitable access to the arts at local, state,

Representative Patt Maney Issues October 2023 News & Updates

Check out the latest news from Florida State Rep. Patt Maney's office, including the Okaloosa County Delegation Meeting, the first Legislative Committee Week, the Speaker Designation Ceremony, his award from the Florida Chamber of Commerce, and more.Read the entire newsletter here.

Historic Partnership: NWFSC and Seacoast Collegiate High School Break Ground on New Dual Enrollment & Workforce Development Center

  In a partnership aimed at transforming educational opportunities in Walton County, Northwest Florida State College (NWFSC) and Seacoast Collegiate High School were thrilled to break ground on a new Dual Enrollment and Workforce Development Center. The highly anticipated celebration and ceremony was held on October 2, 2023, at Seacoast High School, with a reception held immediately following at North Beach Social.   The strategic efforts of NWFSC and Seacoast Collegiate High School signify a shared

Newman-Dailey Resort Properties Raises $38K+ and Stocks the Pantry of Harvest House of Destin

Newman-Dailey is passionate about giving back to the local community. Through the passion of the staff and generosity of friends, family, homeowners, vendors, guests and clients, the team at Newman-Dailey Resort Properties united to raise $38,496 and 2,558 food items for the Harvest House of Destin to help fight hunger and help area families in need. “We’re excited to partner with the Harvest House of Destin for our 2023 community service project,” said Newman-Dailey’s Founder and CEO Jeanne Dailey. “We’ve

October 2023 Update from One Okaloosa EDC

By Nathan Sparks, CEcD Executive Director of One Okaloosa EDC Welcome to Fall! After the scorching hot summer that we experienced, the (slightly) cooler temperatures are, quite literally, a breath of fresh air. Fall not only brings cooler weather, lighter traffic, fewer crowds and, my personal favorite, FOOTBALL – it also brings a change of leadership at One Okaloosa as our new fiscal year begins Oct. 1.  We cannot say enough about what a pleasure it has been to serve under Jillian McQueen, Hilton Garden

Step One Automotive Group Launches 'Drive Out Breast Cancer' Campaign Throughout October 2023

Step One Automotive Group is excited to announce its annual "Drive Out Breast Cancer" campaign, an impactful initiative to support breast cancer research, awareness, prevention, and support in the Southeast. The month-long campaign runs from October 1st through October 31st, 2023.   Event Highlights: Duration: October 1st to October 31st, 2023. Location: Various community events near Step One locations throughout Georgia, Central Alabama, Florida, and Andalusia. How It Works: Pink vehicles will be

2004 National Merit Scholarship Semifinalists and Commended Students

The 2024 National Merit Scholarship Semifinalists and National Merit Scholarship Commended students were recently announced, and we are proud of our students who earned the distinctions. "I am extremely proud of these students and their efforts to earn this Scholarship. It is not an easy process, and those who are recognized at any level for their academic excellence deserve it," shared Superintendent Chambers. To qualify for the National Merit Scholarship Program, students must take the Preliminary

NWFSC President, Dr. Devin Stephenson, Receives the University of Alabama College of Education’s 2023 Harold L. Bishop Award for Leadership

Northwest Florida State College (NWFSC) is proud to announce that NWFSC President, Dr. Devin Stephenson, will receive the University of Alabama College of Education’s 2023 Harold L. Bishop Award for Leadership on October 13, 2023. This esteemed recognition celebrates Dr. Stephenson’s remarkable 30-year career and his significant contributions to the field of education and leadership.  The Harold L. Bishop Award for Leadership is a highly prestigious Capstone Education Society Alumni Award that

Okaloosa County Commissioner Mel Ponder Appointed to FAC Board of Directors and Committees

We are proud to announce that Okaloosa County Commissioner Mel Ponder was recently appointed to serve a third consecutive year as an at-large member on the Board of Directors for the Florida Association of Counties (FAC). Additionally, Commissioner Ponder was appointed to serve on the Finance, Tax, and Administration Policy Committee (FTA) and as Co-Vice Chairman of the Presidential Select Committee on Preemption. “I truly appreciate being able to serve on the Board and these committees, working with my

CAA Partners With Boys & Girls Club Of The Emerald Coast To Expand Programs

The Cultural Arts Alliance of Walton County (CAA) is pleased to announce a new partnership with the Boys & Girls Club of the Emerald Coast to expand its Youth Arts Education program for club members and produce a high-quality mural that will serve as a source of inspiration and education to club visitors and participants.  The new 20’ x 20’ (approximate) mural installation is near completion and featured on the blue architectural wall at the entrance of the South Walton club on Boys & Girls Club Way near

Inmates Earn Certifications at the Okaloosa County Correctional Institution through NWFSC Corrections Program

This summer, twenty-six inmates from the Okaloosa County Correctional Institution earned skilled trade certifications through Northwest Florida State College (NWFSC). The NWFSC Corrections Program had fourteen who received the Heavy Equipment Machinery certification and twelve who received the Carpentry certification.   The NWFSC Corrections Program is a 6-month trades training program that offers industry certifications to inmates. Students become eligible and are selected in the program once they

Okaloosa County Recognized with Prestigious Award by the Daughters of the American Revolution

The Okaloosa County Board of County Commissioners was recently honored as the recipient of the 1776-2026 Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) America 250! Commendation Certificate and Medal. The award was presented to the Board during the Tuesday, September 19, 2023, regular meeting by the Choctawhatchee Bay Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution. “I am thankful and humbled that the DAR would recognize the entire County with this distinction,” said Okaloosa County Commissioner Carolyn

Okaloosa STEMM Academy Recognized as a National Blue Ribbon School

​The Okaloosa County School District is thrilled to announce that the Okaloosa STEMM Academy has achieved a remarkable milestone by being recognized as a National Blue Ribbon School. In January, the U.S. Florida Department of Education (FDOE) nominated STEMM Academy to the United States Department of Education (USDOE) due to exemplary high performance based on the 2021-2022 performance data. On Tuesday, September 19, USDOE recognized STEMM as one of 353 schools nationwide and one of 13 from Florida as a

Hello Frances Podcast: The Top 3 Skills to Look for When Hiring a Creative

On this week’s episode of the Hello Frances podcast, our host Shantelle Dedicke speaks about what she looks for when recruiting and hiring a creative to the team. She shares her top three skills that she says make an ideal candidate! Have questions or thoughts about this episode?Listen now.

2024 30A Fest Headliners Announced

30A Songwriters Festival will celebrate its 15th year with performances on the main stage at presenting partner Grand Boulevard’s Town Center in Miramar Beach with headline performances by renowned artists JEFF TWEEDY, ELVIS COSTELLO & THE IMPOSTERS, ROSANNE CASH and KT TUNSTALL. The festival will also be welcoming the following first-timers to 30A: KELLY WILLIS, SHANNON WHITWORTH AND WOODY PLATT, SUNNY WAR, CHAPEL HART, JOHN MUQ, JACK BARKSDALE, THE PINK STONES, DAVID CHILDERS, MEGAN BURTT, RACHAEL

Let's Talk Title: New Corporate Transparency Act

In this episode of Let’s Talk Title with Emerald Coast Title Services, Dion Moniz and Ashley Bowen discuss a new federal law that comes into effect on January 1, 2024, called the Corporate Transparency Act. They share how this impacts LLCs used to buy real estate and much more! Listen now.

Read the September 2023 Issue of Destin Life

Attorney/Veteran-Owned Trinity Title Celebrates Grand Opening In Destin

On Sept. 14, Trinity Title celebrated its grand opening with a ribbon cutting. Trinity Title is an attorney/Veteran-owned, full-service title and escrow company. Its professionals work to eliminate unnecessary delays and exceptions that often come with the transfer of real estate titles, while prioritizing relationships and providing personalized customer service.  Visit the office at 4507 Furling Ln. 104, in Destin, or visit TrinityTitleFla.com. For more information, please call (850) 848-5774.

Bit-Wizards Urges Businesses to Assess BCDR Plans Amidst Height of Hurricane Season

Managed IT Services company, Bit-Wizards, encourages businesses of all sizes to assess their business continuity and disaster recovery (BCDR) plans as we reach the peak of the Atlantic hurricane season. 25% of businesses fail to reopen after a disaster, which is why it’s crucial for companies that could be affected by a hurricane to take BCDR seriously and plan in advance.  “If a disaster impacts your business and you don’t have a plan, at the very least, you’re going to lose clients, you’re going to lose

Destin’s Newest Hotel Offers Fun, Affordable Option for Families

On Sept. 12, Tru by Hilton Destin celebrated its grand opening with a ribbon cutting. Enjoy your Destin vacation with a hotel experience from Hilton that's vibrant, affordable and young-at-heart. Destin's newest hotel is conveniently located near shops, restaurants, and the beautiful Henderson Beach State Park, which offers more than 6,000 feet of sugary white sand along the famous clear emerald green Gulf waters. Designed to accommodate families, many guest rooms feature an alcove with bunk beds. WiFi

Warren Averett Ranked as the Best Firm to Work For on Accounting Today's 2023 List

Warren Averett CPAs and Advisors has been named the top firm in the large firm category (250+ employees) on Accounting Today’s 2023 Best Firms to Work For list.  This distinction acknowledges and celebrates the leading employers within the accounting profession. This is the second consecutive year that the firm has achieved this recognition.  To determine the 2023 list, Accounting Today collaborated with the Best Companies Group and ranked companies based on the results of anonymous employee surveys and

Big Brothers and Big Sisters of NWF Partners with Target Circle

          We are honored and excited to announce that we have been chosen to participate in a special charitable giving campaign, sponsored and funded by Target. And you have the chance to help direct a portion of Target's donation to us! Now through September 30th, vote for us through the Target Circle program to help determine how Target's donation will be divvied up. To join Target Circle and learn more about this program, click here: www.target.com/circle.  We are asking

School Safety Message to Parents and Guardians from Superintendent Marcus Chambers

Dear Parents and Guardians, Our most precious asset is our children. The Okaloosa County School District's primary focus is to provide our students with the safest learning environment possible that promotes the highest levels of academic and personal achievement. In order to be prepared in the event of any crisis, Okaloosa County schools plan and execute active assailant, fire, and other emergency and severe weather drills and have protocols and employee training for many other crises. The OCSD Crisis

City of Destin to Host Open House

The public is invited to attend the City of Destin’s Open House on Wednesday, Oct. 25 from 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m., at the Destin Community Center. "This year’s theme is ‘Music to Our Ears’, and we'll have a local band to add a little flair to an already great annual event,” said Tamara Young, Public Information Director. “Jones and Company will share their talent, and the event gives City departments and important partners a chance to engage with the community on what we do." Nonprofit organizations

Hello Frances Podcast: Creating a Legacy of Impact

On this week’s episode of the Hello Frances Podcast, our host Shantelle Dedicke is joined by Destin Charity Wine Auction Foundation’s President, Karah Fridley-Young, and Director of Marketing & Communications, Kate MacMillan. They discuss a few of the Foundation’s upcoming events, how they are able to make a long-lasting impact in our community with their charity partners, and much more! Listen now.

Food For Thought’s Summer Impact Review

September Proclaimed Suicide Prevention Month

In honor of The Tatissa Zunguze Foundation for Suicide Prevention and the Okaloosa Suicide Prevention and Support group, Mayor Bobby Wagner and the Destin City Council proclaimed September 2023 as National Suicide Prevention & Action Month in the City of Destin. All residents are encouraged to take time to understand mental health through education and recognize that we need to take care of ourselves while we take care of each other. Tatissa was one month from college graduation when she took her life. She

Causeway Coffee Serves Up Delicious Coffee & Food With A Mission

On Sept. 5, Causeway Coffee celebrated a ribbon cutting with the Destin Chamber. At Causeway Coffee, every sip tells a story! Its mission goes beyond serving exceptional coffee. Its founders aim to create a hub that fosters connections within our community and supports impactful missions around the world. As you step through the doors, you'll be greeted by the rich aroma of freshly brewed coffee, crafted with care and passion. With every cup you enjoy, you contribute to efforts in supporting missions

Destin Chamber Trustees Invite Local First Responders to Appreciation Cookout

The Destin Chamber Trustee members are celebrating and thanking local first responders with a free cookout on Monday, Sept. 11. They will be grilling hamburgers and hot dogs and serving BBQ sliders and brisket at Destin Fire Station #9 at 848 Airport Road, in Destin, from 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. All police officers, firefighters, medical personnel, beach safety, EMS and military are invited. Trustee membership is the highest membership level in the Destin Chamber, and it shows a significant commitment to and

2024 Hospitality Hero Awards Sponsorship Opportunities

Read the August 2023 Issue of Destin Life

Women’s Boutique Dress Up Celebrates Grand Opening of Destin Commons Location

On Aug. 29, woman’s boutique Dress Up celebrated a ribbon cutting with the Destin Chamber. Located in Destin Commons, Dress Up offers women stylish wardrobe options, from dresses, rompers and jumpsuits to loungewear, shoes and accessories. It boasts 17 locations across the Southeast and has new arrivals weekly. Visit the store at 4121 Legendary Dr., in Destin. Call (770) 535-9010 or visit ShopDressUp.com for more information.

Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation Welcomes Daniel Milana

Seagrass Fall Luncheons

Northwest Florida State College’s Culinary and Hospitality Management programs present Seagrass Restaurant student learning lab Fall luncheons, beginning September 14. The attached flier provides dates, available reservation times, price and reservation information.    The dining room is set for 2 or 4 top tables and the menu is a la carte. Please note that substitutions are not possible due to this being a student course learning lab and specific curriculum objectives. One lunch per guest for the semester

Southern Tide Offers Coastal Inspired Apparel for Men, Women & Children

On Aug. 24, Southern Tide’s 30A store celebrated its grand opening with the Destin Chamber. Southern Tide offers quality, coastal inspired apparel for men, women and kids. Its signature men’s line has everything for the modern refined man, from professional chinos for the office to moisture-wicking quarter-zip pullovers for breezy days by the coast. Its women’s designs feature stylish, preppy, and cozy pieces, whether your lifestyle takes you to the tailgate or the country club. The ever-growing

Step One Automotive Group Partners with Local Organizations to ''Stuff the Bus'' with Essential School Supplies for Students in Need

Step One Automotive Group, a leading automotive dealership network with locations across Florida, Alabama, and Georgia, proudly announces its successful participation in the community-led "Stuff the Bus" initiative. Focused on providing essential school supplies to students in low-income families, Step One Automotive Group transformed its various dealership locations into donation stations for the duration of the campaign.  In a partnership with the United Way Emerald Coast and United Way of West Florida,

HOTWWORX Sip & See

Hello Frances Podcast: Feed Your Creativity with Cookbooks

On this week’s episode of the Hello Frances Podcast, our host, Shantelle Dedicke shares one of her favorite ways to feed her creativity… reading cookbooks! In honor of her birthday, Shantelle discusses three of her favorite cookbooks, how they have pulled her out of a creative rut, what she plans to cook for her birthday meal, and much more. Listen now.

Realtor Clayton Bonjean Honored as Destin Chamber’s Business Person of the Month

During the Destin Chamber’s Aug. 11 Business Before Hours Sponsored by Destin City Lifestyle Magazine, Clayton Bonjean, Broker/Owner of Mainsail Realty Company, was honored with the Chamber’s Business Person of the Month Award. This award is presented directly from the Chamber’s Board of Directors to a Destin area businessperson showing vision for his or her business and leadership in our community.  Bonjean has personally closed more than 550 real estate transactions totaling more than $330 million

Early Registration Dates for Annual Fenner Ride Cycling Event

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwest Florida, along with the West Florida Wheelmen Bicycle Club, present the annual Fenner Ride on Oct. 28, 2023. This cycling event gives riders a unique chance to experience Northwest Florida's native wildlife, natural environments, and beautiful scenery along the Blackwater Heritage Trail. The ride will start at the Clyde L. Gracey Community Center, located at 5629 Byrom St. Milton, Fla. Participants of all skill levels will have the opportunity to choose the course that

Hello Frances Podcast: How Designers Benefit from Canva

On this week’s episode of the Hello Frances podcast, our Art Director Janae Erickson and Graphic Designer Ana Sharp take over the microphone to discuss Canva, an easy-to-use, free online design tool! They share things they find most beneficial about Canva, fun projects they have worked on within the program, and much more. Listen now.

Okaloosa County Launches Community Survey on Housing Issues

Okaloosa County is seeking public input via a community survey to assist in the development of an Attainable Workforce Housing Strategy. The questions in this survey will help local leaders to better understand public opinions about housing affordability, needs, and types of development.   “Hearing from our residents is a critical component of our planning efforts to address affordable housing in Okaloosa County.” said Okaloosa County Board Chairman Trey Goodwin. “We want to address housing needs for all

HCA Florida Fort Walton-Destin Hospital and HCA Florida Twin Cities Hospital Collect More than 3,000 School Supplies

HCA Florida Fort Walton-Destin Hospital and HCA Florida Twin Cities Hospital joined HCA Florida Healthcare hospitals across the state throughout July to participate in the organization’s first statewide We Show Up for Our Schools month of service.  In partnership with the Okaloosa County School District and United Way Emerald Coast, HCA Florida Fort Walton-Destin Hospital and HCA Florida Twin Cities Hospital collected more than 3,000 supplies for students and teachers in our community ahead of the new

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwest Florida partners with Pensacola Cordova Rotary for Back to School - Lace Up 4 Kids

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwest Florida is excited to announce Pensacola Cordova Rotary selected us to partner with them for their District grant application. The project, Back to School - Lace Up 4 Kids, will provide shoes and socks for our Littles, as they are returning to school. Proper footwear plays a significant role in enabling children to attend school comfortably and confidently. Thanks to this partnership, we can make sure our Littles are better prepared for their academic journey.  On

Superintendent Marcus Chambers Welcomes Students and Parents Back to School

Welcome to a brand-new year in the Okaloosa County School District! I cannot begin my thoughts and hopes for this year without thanking our students, parents, and staff for an outstanding 2022-2023 school year. In a year that brought new, more rigorous statewide assessments in English Language Arts (ELA) and Mathematics to Florida, Okaloosa students once again outperformed almost every other school district in the state in their proficiency rankings. A combined analysis of all test results recently

Read the August 2023 VIP Destin Magazine

Sponsor a Student for our Biggest School Year Yet with Food For Thought

$7 Fills a backpack in our Backpack Program! #YouCanHelp fill a backpack with food and empower a child! Sponsor a student for one week or the entire 2023-24 school year for children in Walton & Okaloosa Counties. Click here to sponsor a student. To sponsor multiple children, just add multiple backpacks to your cart!

Hello Frances Podcast: Fuel Productivity with Well Being

On this week’s episode of the Hello Frances podcast, our host Shantelle Dedicke explores the topic of rest and why most people feel like they have to work to earn rest. Shantelle discusses how leaders can prevent burnout and be more productive through recharging, giving their team the space to do the same, and much more! Listen now.  

Pinch A Penny Brings Huge Selection of Pool Supplies & Expert Advice to Destin

On Aug. 1, Pinch A Penny celebrated its grand opening with the Destin Chamber. Shop the Destin Pinch A Penny for a huge selection of pool supplies, including liquid chlorine, tablets, pumps, filters and more. Locally owned and operated by Luis, Bonita, Brian, and Kevin D'Jesus, this neighborhood pool store provides expert advice plus everything you need to care for your pool, patio or spa.  Find details at https://pinchapenny.com/stores/destin-fl-278 or call (850) 533-5153. Visit the store at 4010

We Mean Business! Reach 70K+ with the Festival of Arts Guide | Save Your Ad Space Today!

WIN-WIN! REACH 70,000+ BY ADVERTISING IN THE OFFICIAL 2023 FESTIVAL OF THE ARTS PROGRAM AND … SUPPORT THE MATTIE KELLY ARTS FOUNDATION! 8.125” X 12” BOOKLET (UP TO 72 PAGES) FINAL ARTWORK IS DUE AUG. 15, 2023.  Click here to see rates.

HCA Florida Fort Walton-Destin Hospital Nationally Recognized for Commitment to Providing High-Quality Stroke Care

HCA Florida Fort Walton-Destin Hospital has received the American Heart Association’s Get With The Guidelines® - Stroke Gold Plus quality achievement award for its commitment to ensuring stroke patients receive the most appropriate treatment according to nationally recognized, research-based guidelines, ultimately leading to more lives saved and reduced disability. Stroke is the No. 5 cause of death and a leading cause of disability in the U.S. A stroke occurs when a blood vessel that carries oxygen and

Bit-Wizards Makes Top 5 Again!

 For the 14th year in a row, Bit-Wizards was named one of Florida's Best Companies To Work For in 2023. The annual Best Companies To Work For In Florida list, featured in the August issue of Florida Trend magazine, ranks 100 companies in small, medium, and large employer categories. After a couple of years of tremendous growth, Bit-Wizards moved from the Small to Midsized category in 2022. Coming in at #4, this is the second consecutive year that Bit-Wizards has secured a spot in the top

Celebrating U.S. Amateur Qualifying Tournament Champions

The U.S. Amateur Qualifying Tournament, hosted at the beautiful Santa Rosa Golf & Beach Club has concluded, and we're thrilled to let you know the champions and share images from the tournament with you. Nate Graham from Albany, GA, secured the top spot with a total score of 139, closely followed by Matthew Soucinek from Lake City, FL, with an impressive score of 140. These exceptional players have earned an official invitation to compete in the 123rd U.S. Amateur Championship. Congratulations to all

Teri Broxson Receives Eglin Federal Credit Union's 5-Star Employee Award for the 2nd Quarter

Eglin Federal Credit Union is pleased to announce Certified IRA Specialist Teri Broxson has been selected as the 5-Star Performer for the second quarter of 2023. Teri has been employed with the Credit Union for 26 years and currently resides in Fort Walton Beach. Member Service Supervisor Vanessa Cicchiani-Taylor said, “Teri is dedicated and proactive in helping our membership. She has also immersed herself in the community by volunteering to teach classes at the Center for Lifelong Learning at the

The Salvation Army New Disaster/Community Canteen Vehicle

The Salvation Army of Okaloosa & Walton Counties has received their new Disaster/Community Canteen Vehicle with help from Impact100. This vehicle will be utilized to help during a Disaster and monthly to provide hot meals to our communities most needy population. Stop by our location at 425 Mary Esther Cutoff, Ft. Walton Beach to take a tour of the new vehicle. If you have ever thought about helping during a disaster we are offering FREE Emergency Disaster Training at our Ft. Walton Beach Salvation Army

Eco Clean Marine and Original Oyster House Join Forces for a Highly Successful Trash Pick Up Event

Eco Clean Marine, a leading environmental organization committed to preserving our marine ecosystems, partnered with the renowned Original Oyster House to conduct a massive trash pick up event. The initiative took place on July 22ed and saw an overwhelming response from volunteers and local businesses, showcasing the power of collective efforts in safeguarding our environment. The event kicked off at 7:45 AM, with an enthusiastic team of 30 volunteers gathering at the Original Oyster House to embark on the

Bit-Wizards’ Recent Pen Test Results Prove High Level of Security

Bit-Wizards is proud to announce that they scored a 5 out of 5 on their latest external pen test and a 4.5 out of 5 on their internal pen test. The Managed IT Service provider chooses to undergo a penetration test every six months, allowing an outside company to perform an authorized attack on their network to evaluate its security posture.     “The goal is to try to be one step ahead of the hackers at all times. Instead of going through a vulnerability assessment, which tends to be cheaper and less time

July 2023 Update from One Okaloosa EDC

By Nathan Sparks, CEcD Executive Director of One Okaloosa EDC What a month it has been for economic development in Okaloosa County! First, on June 21, Boeing held a ribbon cutting for its new 20,000 SF F-18/A landing gear maintenance and repair facility in the Fort Walton Beach Commerce and Technology Park. For those keeping track, this is Boeing’s third facility in Okaloosa County, and our workforce’s continued ability to meet the exacting standards of a company like Boeing are particularly noteworthy.

Read the July 2023 Issue of Destin Life

Read the July 2023 VIP Destin Magazine

Okaloosa Students Shine Overall on State Assessments

In a year that brought new, more rigorous statewide assessments in English Language Arts (ELA) and Mathematics to Florida, Okaloosa students once again outperformed almost every other school district in the state in their proficiency rankings. A combined analysis of all test results recently released by the Florida Department of Education shows that Okaloosa ranks 5th among 67 Florida school districts. These results continue the improvement in recent years from 8th and 7th, in 2021 and 2022, respectively.

Eglin Federal Credit Union and Okaloosa Saves Partner in the Teach a Child to Save Campaign

Eglin Federal Credit Union partnered with Okaloosa Saves for the annual Teach a Child to Save campaign April 1 – June 30. Youth were encouraged to set a savings goal and make a deposit into a savings account at EFCU. This year there were 114 youth under the age of 18 who participated with deposits totaling $23,335.81. Their names were entered into a random drawing for six children to win a $50 deposit into their EFCU account from Okaloosa Saves. Since the program began in 2004, 2,286 children made deposits

Eglin Federal Credit Union Opens New Location in DeFuniak Springs

Eglin Federal Credit Union today held a ribbon-cutting ceremony for its DeFuniak Springs ATM/Video Teller Drive-thru located at 677 Highway 90. The first phase of this site is now open. A full-service branch will open at this location later in 2024. Members have the ability to speak with a live teller over two-way video during regular business hours. Video Tellers are available Monday through Thursday from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. These personalized tellers assist members

Okaloosa County EMS Achieves National Recognition for 10th Consecutive Year

Okaloosa County Department of Public Safety - Emergency Medical Services Division was recently recognized by the America Heart Association on achieving Mission: Lifeline® EMS Gold status for 2023. This is the ninth consecutive Mission Lifeline Gold award and 10th year with Mission Lifeline recognition. Okaloosa EMS achieved Silver status in 2014. “We are proud and honored to receive this continued achievement through the AHA and reassured that our Emergency Medical Services team is prepared to react when

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ADVERTISING IN THE SINFONIA SEASON PROGRAM OFFERS YOUR BUSINESS: Up to a ONE YEAR shelf life to spotlight your ad! Visibility to an exclusive, affluent clientele and patron base who are business and community leaders throughout Northwest Florida An economical and efficient way to reach your target market Ability to make multiple impressions on season subscribers, sponsors and key decision makers in the community Ability to offer special savings opportunities to potential clients A portion of each ad

Okaloosa County School District Transportation Department Releases School Bus Schedule

With the 2023 – 2024 school year right around the corner, the Okaloosa County School District is preparing to welcome students back into its classrooms. The transportation department has created a QR code for easy access (or visit www.okaloosaschools.com) for parents and guardians to stay updated with notifications about their child's bus. They may also sign up for Bus Bulletin, which sends notifications to parents if there are unexpected delays or schedule changes involving a student's bus. Parents and

Hello Frances Podcast: Celebrating 7 Years of Frances Roy

On this week’s episode of the Hello Frances podcast, our host Shantelle Dedicke is joined by members of the Frances Roy team to celebrate the 7th anniversary of Frances Roy Agency! We discuss our favorite memories, things we manifest for our future, and much more.Listen now.

Captain Royal Melvin Heritage Park Opens

After 17 years in the making, the Captain Royal Melvin Heritage Park officially opened to the public on Tuesday, July 18. Members of the City Council, Chamber of Commerce and relatives of Royal Melvin took part in cutting the ribbon to what has been nicknamed the “Gateway to the Harbor.” The park is located at 206 Harbor Boulevard. “We are the sons of Captain Royal Melvin,” began Bo Melvin, as he and his brother Scott took to the podium at the celebration. “It is an honor to be here today. It has been a

Sinfonia Gulf Coast Launches Stellar 2023-2024 Season

Season 18 features the music of Tony Award-winning Broadway stars Laura Benanti and Brian Stokes Mitchell, Grammy-nominated Trombone Shorty, sirs Andrew Lloyd Webber, Elton John and Paul McCartney, award-winning saxophonist Steven Banks, John Williams’ epic Jurassic Park film score and moreSinfonia Gulf Coast continues its tradition of “redefining” the symphony experience as it enters its 18th season. With a mission to entertain, educate and inspire the Northwest Florida Gulf coast, the region’s only fully

Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation Announces Call For The 28Th Annual Festival Of The Arts Collaborative Art Exhibit

Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation (MKAF) is now accepting applications for the Adult Collaborative Art Exhibit component of the 28th annual Festival of the Arts (Friday, Oct. 27 (Arty Kick Off Party at Henderson Beach Resort in Destin) October 28-29 (Festival weekend)) at the Mattie Kelly Cultural Arts Village in Destin, Florida. One of the unique features of MKAF’s Festival of the Arts is the Collaborative Art Exhibit, which showcases the work of seasoned and emerging adult artists and local student artists

Revitalize your Appearance & Restore Your Confidence with Barnett Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, PA

On July 13, Barnett Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, PA, celebrated a ribbon cutting with the Destin Chamber. Barnett Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, PA, is composed of a team of skilled and experienced professionals dedicated to providing the highest level of care and expertise in the field. Revitalize your appearance and restore your confidence through a wide range of beauty enhancement and reconstructive surgery services. For details, visit www.barnettfacialplastics.com or call

Gulfarium C.A.R.E. Center Successfully Releases Three More Rehabilitated Sea Turtles

The Gulfarium's C.A.R.E. Center successfully released another three rehabilitated sea turtle patients on Thursday, July 13, 2023 at Henderson Beach State Park in Destin, Florida.   So far this year the Gulfarium C.A.R.E. Center has taken in 91 sea turtles due to strandings, and has released 61 of them. Today, three sea turtles, two Loggerheads and one Kemps ridley, were returned to the Gulf of Mexico. Several dedicated C.A.R.E Center staff team members and their volunteers, as well as numerous beachgoers

Eglin Federal Credit Union recognizes Fort Walton Beach Teller Bonnie McIntosh for 25 years of service

Eglin Federal Credit Union is pleased to recognize Fort Walton Beach Teller Bonnie McIntosh for 25 years of service. Bonnie currently resides in Fort Walton Beach. “We congratulate Bonnie on becoming a member of the National Association of Federal Credit Union’s Quarter Century Club in recognition of her 25 years of service to the credit union industry,” said SVP/COO Kim Nauta. “Bonnie is a favorite with a lot of our long-time members, and we appreciate her knowledge, dedication and commitment to EFCU and

Okaloosa County School District to Host Educational Support Job Fair

The Okaloosa County School District (OCSD) seeks qualified personnel to join our team. The District's Educational Support Job Fair is FREE and will take place at the OCSD Administrative Complex Board Room (next to Edge Elementary) on Tuesday, July 25, from 10 am to 1 pm. Various career paths are available, including substitute teachers, bus drivers, paraprofessionals, mechanics, and more. We will be hiring on the spot! 

Public Works Vacuum Truck in Area

The City of Destin Public Works Department has rented a large Vacuum Truck from Vermeer to assist with cleaning the major stormwater drainage structures. Starting the week of July 10, work with structures along Highway 98 will begin, followed by the Weir on Gulf Shore Drive. After those two areas are completed, drain boxes and pipes throughout the City will be cleaned. Disruptions to residents and tourists will be kept as minimal as possible, but please be advised there could be traffic delays at times as

NWFSC Announces New Cheerleading Coach

Northwest Florida State College is proud to announce Shannon Tucker as the new Cheerleading Coach. Tucker is a graduate of the University of Central Florida with a bachelor’s degree in Sports and Fitness, specializing in coaching and sports injuries, and has an impressive 17-year coaching background. Her extensive experience includes owning a cheer and tumbling facility in Niceville called Destination 850, serving as Cheer Coach at Destin High School since 2021, and successfully coaching teams including

Okaloosa County School District to Host Annual Stuff the Bus School Supply Drive on July 29

Stuff the Bus helps local students get the tools they need for the upcoming school year! In 2022, over $11,000 worth of supplies were collected, impacting over 10,000 students in 53 schools across Okaloosa and Walton counties. Without our community's generosity, students would lack the supplies they need to be successful during the school year. Regarding this initiative, Marcus Chambers, Superintendent of Okaloosa County School District, stated, "Any help you can give to allow our students to have their own

Florida Department of Education Seeking Input to Reduce Regulation in Public Schools

Earlier this year, the Florida Legislature passed House Bill 1. Included in this bill was a requirement that the Florida Department of Education develop and submit to the Governor and Legislature a set of recommendations to reduce regulation of public schools. The law also requires the Department to consider input from teachers, superintendents, administrators, home educators, and other entities. To solicit and collect suggestions, the Department has set up an online survey. The survey will be open until

Hello Frances Podcast: Vision Boards: The Creative Journey

On this week’s episode of the Hello Frances podcast, our host Shantelle Dedicke discusses how our team incorporates vision boards into our yearly planning and how you can use a vision board to help manifest your goals. She shares how vision boards have positively impacted our team over the years, why vision boarding is connected to personal growth and much more! Listen now.  

First National Bank Offers Local Decision Making & Competitive Products in Destin

On June 27, First National Bank celebrated its new Destin location with a ribbon cutting. As a full-service bank, First National Bank offers local decision making, a wide range of competitive personal and business products, and experienced bankers dedicated to providing superior service in a warm and friendly environment.  For more information, please call (850) 608-2088, visit https://fnbdc.com/about-us/hours-location/miramar-beach online, or stop by the new branch at 91 Scenic Gulf Drive, in Miramar

Taylor Haugen Foundation Celebrates New Niceville Location

On June 29, The Taylor Haugen Foundation celebrated its new location with a ribbon cutting. At the new Niceville location of 1145 John Sims Pkwy., the local non-profit organization will continue its mission of building and recognizing youth leaders and the promotion of youth sports safety to honor the legacy of Taylor Haugen. It will continue to provide awareness, education and abdominal injury protection to secondary aged schools and leagues in contact sports, through its YESS© Program (Youth Equipment

Step One Automotive Group Celebrates Successful Grand Opening of Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram Andalusia

Step One Automotive Group is thrilled to announce the successful Grand Opening of the Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram Andalusia dealership, held on Thursday, June 22nd. The event was a resounding triumph, thanks to the overwhelming support and participation of the Andalusia community. The festivities began with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at 4:30 p.m., officiated by the esteemed members of the Andalusia Chamber of Commerce. Joining in the celebration were approximately 250 esteemed guests, including community

Gulfarium C.A.R.E. Center Successfully Releases Six Rehabilitated Sea Turtles

The Gulfarium's C.A.R.E. Center successfully released six rehabilitated sea turtle patients on Wednesday, July 5, 2023 at Inlet Beach in the Florida panhandle.   The Gulfarium C.A.R.E. Center has taken in 89 patients this year, and so far has released 58 of them. Today, six sea turtles, four Loggerheads, one Kemps ridley, and one Green were able to return to the Gulf of Mexico. This marks the third release at Inlet Beach in the last month. Several dedicated C.A.R.E Center staff team members and their