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DeSantis: Destin open for business

To: Daily Rundown Readers

October 20, 2026   |   Reading time: 9 mins

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Good morning!

Gov. Ron DeSantis told visitors Destin is open for business after Hurricane Isaias. The Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office and school district launched Operation Jingle Bells for students in need, and Henderson Beach Resort will celebrate its 10th anniversary with 10 days of events. Also, the Flying Needles quilt guild showcases 24 quilts at the Shalimar Library, and today’s weather outlook.

BUSINESS

Henderson Beach Resort to celebrate 10th anniversary with 10 days of events

Contributed photo

Henderson Beach Resort in Destin will mark its 10th anniversary next month with 10 days of culinary events, wellness offerings, live entertainment and community giving, many of them priced as a nod to the resort’s 2016 opening.

The celebration, titled “Ten Years of Excellence, Ten Days of Celebration,” runs Nov. 6-15, according to the resort. Anniversary pricing during the week includes a $2.16 first glass of wine, a $2.16 cocktail class and $20.16 signature events, along with original menu favorites and a limited-edition $10 10th Anniversary Roll.

“A resort anniversary is really a celebration of people: the team members who have cared for this property, the guests who return year after year and the Destin community that has embraced The Henderson from the beginning,” said John Carns, Area General Manager of Henderson Beach Resort.

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GIVING BACK

Sheriff’s office, school district launch Operation Jingle Bells for Okaloosa students in need

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Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office and Okaloosa County School District representatives gather with bicycles, wrapped gifts and other donated items collected through Operation Jingle Bells. Contributed Photo (OCSD)

The Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office and the Okaloosa County School District are once again partnering on Operation Jingle Bells, an annual initiative that supports children and families in need during the holiday season.

The effort is made possible by the generosity of district employees, local businesses, community organizations and individuals throughout Okaloosa County, according to the announcement.

While the holidays are a time of celebration for many families, some children face the season without necessities such as clothing, shoes or gifts. Through Operation Jingle Bells, school guidance counselors and school resource officers work together to identify students who may need additional support and create holiday wish lists.

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EVENTS

Flying Needles quilt guild showcases 24 quilts at Shalimar Library

Diane Roberson of the Flying Needles Quilt Guild talks about modern quilting during “Quilt, Wine and Friends” at the Shalimar Library on Oct. 16. (Contributed photo)

Members of the Flying Needles Quilt Guild showcased their work at the Shalimar Library on Oct. 16 during “Quilt, Wine and Friends,” an event celebrating the artistry and history of quilting. Twenty-four quilts will remain on display at the library through Nov. 2.

Diane Roberson highlighted the guild’s community service, including more than 2,000 handmade items donated to 12 charities last year. Donna Gross presented the guild’s Underground Railroad quilt, and 10 quilt artists shared their work and techniques.

The guild will host the Emerald Coast Quilt Show, “How Does Your Garden Grow,” March 5-6, 2027, at the Rigdon Center in Fort Walton Beach.

EVENTS

Destin invites residents to annual Open House with fish fry, live music Oct. 21

The City of Destin will hold its annual Open House from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 21, at the Community Center on Stahlman Avenue in Destin.

The event will include a fish fry, live music, a caricature artist, a photo booth and more. Residents are invited to stop by, meet City staff and enjoy the afternoon. There is no cost to attend.

This year’s theme is “red, white & blessed (blue),” an Americana celebration honoring the nation’s 250th anniversary.

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WEATHER

Today’s weather outlook

TODAY: Sunny, with a high near 76. Northeast wind around 10 mph.

TONIGHT: Clear, with a low around 59. Northeast wind around 10 mph.

FROM THE STATE

DeSantis tells visitors Destin is open for business after Hurricane Isaias

Gov. Ron DeSantis speaks during a press conference Monday, Oct. 19, at Jackacuda’s Seafood and Sushi in Destin about Hurricane Isaias recovery and business reopenings. Inset: Jackacuda’s Owner Tyler Jarvis (top) and Destin Chamber of Commerce President Shane Moody (bottom) also spoke. (Photos courtesy of Okaloosa County)

Gov. Ron DeSantis was in Destin on Monday afternoon with a message for anyone who has a trip planned to the area: don’t cancel it.

Speaking at Jackacuda’s Seafood and Sushi a little more than a week after Hurricane Isaias made landfall in Okaloosa County, DeSantis said local businesses have bounced back quickly and are ready for visitors.

“You come. You’ll enjoy it. People are ready. They’re ready to have you,” DeSantis said.

He was joined by Jackacuda’s Owner Tyler Jarvis, who said the restaurant reopened within 24 hours of the storm, and Destin Chamber of Commerce President Shane Moody.

DeSantis also gave updates on the state’s emergency bridge loans for small businesses, the request for a federal major disaster declaration and a travel trailer program for residents who can’t stay in their homes during repairs.

OK, that’s all I have for you this morning! I hope you have a great Tuesday! Help us shape the future of local news and make a meaningful impact on your community. Click here to learn how you can support us!

p.s. What did you think of this morning’s newsletter? Hit the reply button and let me know!

Jared

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