The local desk · Okaloosa County
We read the county, the cities and the outlets that cover them, then brief it in our own words with a link to everyone who reported it. Updated every hour.
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A Crestview family of 13, including their dog, dressed as characters from "The Wizard of Oz" and won the Best Group Costume award at the Main Street Crestview Fall Festival on October 31. The group spent six weeks planning and hand-sewing most of their costumes, with organizer Teresa Bonham emphasizing the event's value in creating family memories.
The Destin City Council voted unanimously to lease approximately 4 acres of state-owned property on Holiday Isle for conservation and public recreation, with the city paying $300 annually. The lease requires state approval and a management plan within 10 months, with public input to be scheduled before the plan is finalized.
Direct from the source
The city is offering grants of up to $2,000 to low-to-moderate income homeowners with active insurance claims for roof damage, funded through a federal Community Development Block Grant. Eligible applicants must own a primary residence in Fort Walton Beach, meet HUD income limits, and hire a licensed contractor, with funds distributed on a first-come, first-served basis.
The SS United States, a 990-foot passenger ship that set an Atlantic crossing speed record in 1952, will be deliberately sunk Nov. 12 off the Destin-Fort Walton Beach coast to become the world's largest artificial reef. Okaloosa County spent more than a year preparing the vessel by removing hazardous materials and obtaining federal permits before the scheduled sinking.
Homemade Goodies baked by American Legion Auxiliary Members to benefit local Veterans Community Services Food
898 E James Lee Blvd, Crestview
Outdoor family movie night on the Lawn showing Minions; bring blankets and chairs.
4100 Legendary Dr, Destin
Mark your calendars for our 2026 Vets Day 5K ! November 7 is our date for this year.
311 Main St, Destin
Indoor and outdoor vehicle exhibition
Destin-Fort Walton Beach Convention Center, Destin