Community

By Rita L. Sherwood Whether you’re a local or not, one major issue with our beautiful beaches here on the Emerald Coast is helping the sea turtles. If you’ve been to the beach, I bet you’ve either seen an area roped off for a sea turtle’s nest, seen a sign...

If you’re looking for a reason to celebrate this November, look no more! The Village of Baytowne Wharf welcomes you to November events and the beginning of the holidays! Sparkling Wine and Holiday Lights Saturday, November 19 4-6 p.m. The holiday season kicks off with Sparkling Wine & Holiday Lights benefitting the Emerald...

The 2025 NFL Playoffs start with Wild card games on January 11, 12 and 13, then continue with the Divisional playoffs, Conference Championships and finish with the Super Bowl which will take place on Sunday February 9, 2025. NFL Playoffs 2025 Key Dates Wild-Card Rounds: Jan. 11-13, 2025 Divisional Playoffs: Jan. 18-19,...

By Heather Bennett This year I am Thankful to be spending the holidays with family once again. It’s been too long for some, and although we may feel like we are returning to a sense of normalcy this holiday season, there is still an ongoing need for giving. Too many...

By Sheriff Eric Aden Spring break 2020 was anything but normal, as the covid-19 pandemic sparked a ban on short-term rentals and limits on bars and restaurants. This year’s spring break runs from March 6th through April 25th, and although Okaloosa County doesn’t market itself as a college spring break destination,...

By Brig. Gen. Jeff Geraghty, 96th Test Wing commander Since returning here and taking command of the 96th Test Wing in June, I’m reminded of just how special this area is and how fortunate we are to live and work in such a military-friendly community. With 464,000 acres of land ranges,...

By JoDell Haverfield, Have Travel Memories As we begin planning trips again, many of us will be seeking opportunities to explore who we are, how we got here, and what we can learn from those who came before us. Whether you’re tracing your genealogical history, or simply seeking a more...

By “Doc” Doug Stauffer On Saturday, December 14, 2024, the Beal Cemetery, Gulf Cemetery, Heritage Gardens, Destin Memorial Cemetery and Sunset Cemetery will join more than 3,000 cemeteries nationwide for the annual Wreaths Across America Ceremony. These local events are more than just part of a national program; for many in...

Chris showed up to the Mattie Kelly Arts Center (MKAC) with a gleam in his eye. It was his second time to train as an usher for a ballet recital, and he already knew what to do. “I got my jacket. I need a nametag. I’m ready!” said the 15-year-old...

By Barbara Palmgren As a golf enthusiast and now occasional reporter, I covered this prestigious two-day event held at Santa Rosa Golf & Beach Club July 17-18. The private club boasts an 18-hole, par 72 championship golf course renovated last year to challenge the most skilled golfers. Santa Rosa Club was one...