PRESS RELEASE
Local real estate professional attends
(Dallas TX) – Jane Araguel of RE/MAX Coastal Properties joined other real estate professionals from around the country at the Center for Asset Preservation’s Short Sale Summit held recently in Houston (TX). The two day meeting focused on the Obama administration’s newest efforts to help homeowners avoid foreclosure through “short sales,” which allow the homeowner to negotiate a sale of the home for less than the mortgage debt with the lender’s approval.
“The new Making Home Affordable (MHA) Short Sale program is designed to streamline and standardize the short sale process with a goal of helping financially distressed homeowners avoid losing homes to foreclosure ,” said Araguel. “I left the Short Sale Summit with a good understanding of the new government program and information necessary to help homeowners determine if they qualify for a MHA Short Sale and with the tools needed to negotiate short sales following the new guidelines.”
“Short sales are a well established foreclosure-avoidance tool, but have been so time consuming and complex to negotiate, that many attempts fail,” said Waco Moore, co-founder of the Center for Asset Preservation (CAP) which hosted the program. “The new Treasury Department program should increase the probability of success due to standardized processes, simplified paperwork, incentives to encourage borrower and lender participation, and assistance in securing release of junior liens on the property.”
The CAP meeting included presentations from HUD counselors who advise consumers about foreclosure options, a loss mitigation manager whose firm deals with hundreds of thousands of loans in default, an auction expert who discussed auctions as a short sale option, agents who handle short sales successfully and CAP co-founder Laurie Moore-Moore who covered details for the new Treasury short sale program.
Jane Araguel is a Certified Distressed Property Expert and a Certified Luxury Home Marketing Specialist. She can be reached at 850-650-0300 or jane.a@beachcondos.com.
The Center for Asset Preservation provides training and resources for agents working to help homeowners avoid foreclosure. Based in Dallas, it is a division of The Institute for Luxury Home Marketing. CAP’s Short Sale training is also available online. www.CenterforAssetPreservation.com.
Existing housing sales may have declined nationally in September, but it was a banner —perhaps even phenomenal – month for the Florida real estate market, according viagra the most recent statistics released by the Florida Association of Realtors.
“People have become confident of our real estate market again,” observed ECAR president Anita Williams, after reviewing the FAR numbers that showed sales of existing single-family homes across the state picked up 34 points and locally, 33 percent.
Sales of existing condos showed even larger gains, with the state increasing by a lofty 77 percent while sales along the Emerald Coast more than doubled, reeling in a whopping gain of 107 points, as compared to last year.
While attractive financing terms and incentives such as the $8,000 tax credit for first time homebuyers may have persuaded many real estate shoppers to sign on the dotted line in September, overall, buyers seemed to be a mixed crowd nonetheless.
Williams, broker-owner of The Realty Firm Inc. in Destin, observed that buyers were a mix of traditional first-timers and move-ups, as well as seasoned investors and cash purchasers looking to invest in a rental or vacation home.
“There’s a lot more people coming in from out of state to buy condos here,” she noted. “Once they visit, they want to come back. And they want to buy a place of their own to come back to.”
While not as high as the local area, neighboring Panama City Beach also saw a sizeable leap in sales of existing condo units of 86 percent, as did Pensacola at 41 points.
Sales of existing single-family homes were up in virtually all markets throughout the state, ranging from a modest 1 percent increase in Tallahassee to a 77 percent jump in the Fort Myers-Cape Coral market.
The Emerald Coast’s neighboring markets, Panama City and Pensacola, were up at 27 and 3 points.
Much of the existing single-family home market’s gains of late is owed, at least in part, to the $8,000 tax credit — an incentive that may be extended, if approved by Congress. The extension, which the U.S. Senate has already approved, also broadens the playing field by upping income limitations and clarifying its new deadline; homebuyers would have until April 30, 2010, to sign a sales contract and until the end of June to close the transaction.
In addition to the now familiar first time homebuyers credit, another new tax incentive is pending a nod from Congress. If approved, the repeat homebuyer’s credit will allow qualified buyers who have owned their homes for a minimum of five out of the past eight years to reap up to a $6,500 tax credit.
The National Association of Realtors (NAR) estimates that the $8,000 first-time homebuyers tax credit — currently transactions must close by Nov. 30 unless its extension is approved — may have prompted as many as 350,000 “first time” homebuyers to purchase a home in recent months.
“The $8,000 tax credit incentive has indeed brought buyers to the table,” said ECAR 2010 president-elect, Mary Anne Windes, broker-owner of Real Estate Professionals of Destin Inc., referring to the local market.
“It’s encouraging to see the market surge and expect more good things to come.”
However, even in a good market, Windes, like other seasoned real estate experts, advises that now is the time for buyers and sellers to rely on a Realtor.
“It is more important now than ever to rely on a Realtor, upheld to the association’s high Code of Ethics, to help you navigate your way,” Windes cautioned, pointing out that while all Realtors are licensed real estate sales associates, not all licensed real estate sales associates are Realtors.
“I cannot stress strongly enough,” she continued, “how much integrity, experience, and knowledge can make — or the lack of those qualifications– can break a transaction.”
Good idea . . . one light bulb at a time . . . .
A physics teacher in high school, once told the students that while one grasshopper on the railroad tracks wouldn’t slow a train very much, a billion of them would. With that thought in mind, read the following, obviously written by a good American.
Good idea . . . one light bulb at a time . . . .
Check this out. I can verify this because I was in Lowes the other day for some reason and just for the heck of it I was looking at the hose attachments. They were all made in China. The next day I was in Ace Hardware and just for the heck of it I checked the hose attachments there. They were made in USA. Start looking.
In our current economic situation, every little thing we buy or do affects someone else – even their job. So, after reading this email, I think this lady is on the right track. Let’s get behind her!
My grandson likes Hershey’s candy. I noticed, though, that it is marked made in Mexico now. I do not buy it any more. My favorite toothpaste Colgate is made in Mexico now. I have switched to Crest. You have to read the labels on everything.
This past weekend I was at Kroger. (Can be true for any store.) I needed 60W light bulbs and Bounce dryer sheets. I was in the light bulb aisle, and right next to the GE brand I normally buy was an off brand labeled, “Everyday Value.” I picked up both types of bulbs and compared the stats – they were the same except for the price. The GE bulbs were more money than the Everyday Value brand but the thing that surprised me the most was the fact that GE was made in MEXICO and the Everyday Value brand was made in – get ready for this – the USA in a company in Cleveland , Ohio .
So throw out the myth that you cannot find products you use every day that are made right here .
So on to another aisle – Bounce Dryer Sheets . . . yep, you guessed it, Bounce cost more money and is made in Canada . The Everyday Value brand was less money and MADE IN THE USA! I did laundry yesterday and the dryer sheets performed just like the Bounce Free I have been using for years and at almost half the price!
My challenge to you is to start reading the labels when you shop for everyday things and see what you can find that is made in the USA – the job you save may be your own or your neighbors!
If you accept the challenge, pass this on to others in your address book so we can all start buying American, one light bulb at a time! Stop buying from overseas companies!
(We should have awakened a decade ago . . . . . . )
Q: Are dogs allowed on the beaches in Destin?
A: No. Dogs are not allowed on Okaloosa County or City of Destin beaches. Walton County (Sandestin area) allows “registered and leashed” dogs on their beaches. Please check with Walton County officials at www.co.walton.fl.us to obtain registration information.
Q: My neighbor has piles of old lumber, buckets, and non-working lawn equipment piled up next to the privacy fence that we share. Is this a code violation?
A: City ordinance prohibits, “rubbish, trash, debris, dead trees, or other unsightly, or unsanitary matters to accumulate on any lot, tract, or parcel of land which may reasonably become infested, inhabited by, or a breeding place for rodents, vermin, reptiles or wild animals which threaten or endanger the public health, safety and welfare.” If an investigation of the property reveals that a code violation exists and is a threat to the public, removal and proper disposal would be required.
Q: Can I attend the meeting of ________________?
A: Absolutely! All meetings of the standing boards, committees, and commissions are open to the public.
Q: Do you offer Notary Public services?
A: The City of Destin does provide Notary Public services at no charge to persons with proper and valid identification.
Q: How can I apply for a committee or board position?
A: Volunteer committee applications are available on the city’s website, or by mail or fax. Please contact the City Clerk’s office for an application or to learn what openings are available.
Q: How can I get a copy of the minutes for one of the City’s boards or committees?
A: Minutes are posted to the City’s website, once approved by the authoritative board or committee. Or as with any other public record, you should contact the City Clerk’s office for any copies you would like.
Q: How can I get a copy of __________________?
A: The majority of documents received, created and maintained by the City are available to the public upon request. A person wishing to obtain a copy or merely review a public document should contact the City Clerk’s office during normal business hours. You do not have to provide your name or your reason for desiring the documents. However, Florida Statutes does allow us to charge for copies, certification of copies, and extensive administrative time. Please note we are not required to create or manipulate data in any format or medium which does not currently exist.
Q: Who do I contact and how can I purchase a cemetery lot in the Destin Memorial Cemetery? Also, what does a lot cost?
A: Cemetery administration for both the Destin Memorial Cemetery Phase I (facing Stahlman Avenue) and Phase II (facing Sibert Avenue) is handled through the City Clerk’s office. The majority of grave spaces in Phase I are sold; however from time to time, spaces are returned to the City and available for resale and there are many available spaces in Phase II. For those who chose cremation, two columbariums are available in Phase II, each offering 48 niches for the placement of urns. Fees for both cemetery plots and columbarium niches are established by resolution of the City Council. Current pricing for burial spaces are $1,000 for residents and $1,500 for non-residents; and for mausoleum niches, $600 for residents and $850 for non-residents.
Q: What is the procedure for addressing the Council at one of their meetings?
A: There are several ways to be heard during a council meeting. First, if the topic you wish to address is scheduled as a public hearing, the Mayor will ask for public participation by persons with a general or vested interest. If your topic is not scheduled as an agenda item, you can complete a “speaker’s request” form and provide it to the City Clerk by 12 Noon on Wednesday prior to the meeting. It will then be included on the agenda under “Scheduled Presentations”. Finally, if you don’t prearrange your item, there is an opportunity for “Comments from the audience” at the end of each regular meeting.
Q: Which Councilmember represents my district?
A: All of the Destin City Councilmembers are elected at-large rather than by districts.
Q: How do I contact a Councilmember or Mayor?
A: Each of the Mayor and Council’s home telephone number is listed in the local directory. If you prefer email, please do so to mayor@cityofdestin.com or council@cityofdestin.com
Q: Is there a place to go to get simple answers about transportation issues?
A: Yes. The Florida Institute of Transportation Engineers have produced a document that addresses the common questions about traffic planning, traffic operations and traffic control. Please click here to view.
Q: When are the Council agenda and meeting materials ready?
A: Council meeting agendas are finalized by noon on the Thursday prior to the Monday meeting. Packet compilation and distribution is done that same afternoon whenever possible.
Q: What is the city’s policy regarding golf carts on streets?
A: The Destin Golf Cart Policy was adopted by the City Council in January 2007 and contains nine policy statements. Please click here to read the document.
Q: What is the nearest airport serving Destin?
A: The Northwest Florida Regional Airport (FAA Code: VPS), 1701 State Road 85N, is situated on Eglin Air Force Base, FL. It provides essential scheduled commercial air passenger service for a large portion of the Northwest Florida area. Check out their website: http://www.flyvps.com. Please note: The Destin/Ft. Walton Beach Airport (FAA code: DTS) at 1001 Airport Road, Destin, FL, is a general aviation public use facility owned and operated by Okaloosa County. It does not provide service to commercial airlines.
Q: What are the average high and low temperatures for each month in Destin?
A: January 60 – 42; February 63 – 45; March 69 – 51; April 76 – 58; May 83 – 65; June 88 – 72; July 89 – 74; August 89 – 74; September 86 – 70; October 79 – 59; November 70 – 50; December 63 – 44;
Q: How can I register to vote?
A: Voter registration can be done at the time you obtain or renew a Florida driver’s license or by contacting the Supervisor of Elections for the County in which you reside. For example, if you live in Destin, you should contact Patricia Hollarn’s office at http://www.govote-okaloosa.com or by calling 850-651-7272.
Q: Where can I get a copy of the City’s Code of Ordinances, Land Development Code, or Comprehensive Plan?
A: Our codes are available for viewing on-line at:
Destin Code of Ordinances
Destin Comprehensive Plan
Destin Land Development Code
or for purchase through Municipal Code Corporation at www.municode.com
Q: Where do I get a marriage license or driver’s license?
A: Marriage and Driver’s licenses come under the jurisdiction of the County and State respectively. For marriage license information, please contact the Clerk of Circuit Court at www.clerkofcourts.cc or Okaloosa County Courthouse Annex, 1250 N. Eglin Pkwy, Shalimar, FL 32579, (850) 651-7200.
For driver’s license information, contact the State at www.hsmv.state.fl.us/html/dlnew.html
Q: I purchased a new appliance and want to get rid of the old one. How do I do that?
A: Okaloosa County Transfer Facility can be contacted for disposal of appliances, tires and hazardous waste. For more Information call 689-5774 or 651-7394. Or, you can visit them online at http://www.co.okaloosa.fl.us/pub_rec_specwaste.html
Q: Most of the grants the City of Destin receives are State grants. Why doesn’t the City of Destin apply for more Federal grants?
A: The City of Destin explores every grant opportunity it becomes aware of; to keep the workload manageable, however, the City only applies to those funding sources whose eligibility criteria match Destin’s “profile.” Unfortunately, the majority of Federal grants require a certain percentage of the City’s population or the project area to be documented as “low to moderate income” per HUD standards. Destin cannot satisfy that requirement and therefore remains ineligible for most Federal grant programs.
Q: Why is all of Destin designated by Okaloosa County Emergency Management as an evacuation zone for hurricanes, categories 1-5?
A: Citizens are encouraged to evacuate further inland when a hurricane of any category threatens the City because of the very real possibility of Destin becoming “cut off” from all adjoining Okaloosa County communities and resources should bridges and/or roads become impassable. Being “stuck” with no way of getting out and no supplies coming in can create deplorable living conditions in a very short time. Hurricane cleanup and recovery activities are stressful enough on Destin residents without adding several days of “primitive camping” to the equation! Evacuate to friends or relatives’ homes in Okaloosa County away from the water, and evacuate early!
Q: Does the Library have Internet Access?
A: There are 26 public access terminals and printing is 15 cents per page. The Library also provides free wireless access for those who bring their own laptop.
Get peace of mind and also save money on your home or condo insurance policy with a Wind Mitigation inspection!
It is so easy!
- Order a wind mitigation report or check with your condo association to see if it has one
- Send a copy to your insurance company
- Receive significant discount on your policy – 23% to 45%
The cost of the inspection is approximately $150, depending on the property.
Example of how a wind mitigation can save you money
Jane Araguel lives in a condominium in Destin. She contacted the association who supplied her with a wind mitigation report for her complex. She submitted it to her insurance company and received a $682 credit on her policy.
What is a Wind Mitigation inspection?
Wind Mitigation inspections were created by the Florida Office of Insurance Regulation (OIR) to verify certain features of a home which aid in the resistance of hurricane related damages. Your insurance company is required to provide you with discounts on your hurricane premium if your home is proven to contain one or more of these features. Some of these features include:
· Newer roof installed
· Stronger roof decking attachment & type (8d nails or screws)
· Roof-to-wall attachment (hurricane clips / straps)
· Hip roof geometry
· Braced gable ends
· Masonry wall construction (not to be confused with brick wall
cladding)
· Hurricane shutters (even plywood gets discounts)
What factors are considered in establishing my premium?
Your location: The closer you are to the coast, the more vulnerable you are to damage caused by hurricane winds and this makes your hurricane-wind premium higher than similar homes in other areas of the state.
Your policy: Your insurance policy is divided into two premiums: one for damage caused by hurricane force winds (hurricane-wind) and one for all other damage (all perils), such as fire.
Your deductible: Under the law, you are allowed to choose a $500, 2%, 5% or 10% deductible depending on the actual value of your home. The larger your deductible, the lower your hurricane-wind premium, however, if you select a higher deductible your out-of-pocket expenses in the event of a hurricane claim will be higher.
Improvements to your home: The state requires insurance companies to offer discounts for protecting your home against damage caused by hurricane winds. Securing your roof so it doesn’t blow off and protecting your windows from flying debris are the two most cost effective measures you can take to safeguard your home and reduce your hurricane -wind premium. Discounts apply only to the hurricane-wind portion of your policy.
Your maximum discount: In the state of Florida, the average savings on homeowner policies is around 23% (but some have been as much as 45%) of the annual premium. Additionally, the inspection report completed by a certified inspector is valid for up to five (5) years, which means you can keep a copy of your form in case you would like to shop around for better insurance premiums!
How can I take advantage of the discounts?
Most homeowners will need a licensed or certified professional (general, residential or building contractor, building inspector, a registered architect, engineer or certified building code official) to inspect the home to identify potential mitigation measures and legally verify improvements. There may be other inspection professionals available, for a listing of Individuals and/or Inspection Companies meeting these qualifications contact your Insurance Agent.
How much do these improvements cost?
The costs of the improvement projects vary. Homeowners should contact a licensed contractor for an estimate. You can find a Certified Business Contractor in your area by visiting the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation online at www.myfloridalicense.com.
Who can I get to do my wind mitigation report?
Two people we recommend:
American Property Inspectors – Kerry Kelley at (850) 864-2744
Thomas Enterprising – David Greene at (864) 313-6020
DESTIN, FL – These days there’s more fun to be had in Destin than just lying in the middle of the road and waiting for a car to pass.
“I remember laying down on Highway 98 in February 1980 as a prank,” said longtime developer Bob Bonezzi. “We never saw a car. It was like they neutron bombed the whole place. No one was here in the dead of winter.”
Now no matter if it is winter, spring, summer or fall, there is always something to do in Destin.
And as part of the city’s quarter century anniversary, here are Destin’s its very own Top 25. Enjoy!
1. Hit the beach. The Emerald Coast’s pristine beaches and jewel-toned waters draw 4.5 million visitors every year. As locals, we are lucky to live in this paradise and it’s easy to take the beaches for granted when we see them every day. So every once in a while, wiggle your toes in the sand and think “There’s no place like home.”
2. Go fishing. When anglers die, they don’t go to heaven — they go to Destin. The World’s Luckiest Fishing Village boasts the largest fishing fleet in Florida to take care of those who live by the rod and reel. The industry has had its challenges over the past year with regulations and the economy, but the captains are still backing into the docks with wahoo, mingo, amberine, mackerel, snapper, shark, blue marlin and other highly-sought species.
3. Find Flipper. If reeling in fish is not your style, admiring the marine life from a glass bottom boat on a guided tour is another way to enjoy what is swimming below. Dolphin cruises catch pods in their natural habitat as the guides give history, stories and fun facts about Destin. The dolphins are always more than happy to entertain. And chartering a boat is also not a bad way to see a Destin sunset.
4. Party at Crab Island. It’s doubtful a party spot is what O.T. Melvin and his crew had in mind when digging the trench in 1926 that turned into East Pass, but those four men created a natural attraction for Destin. In the 60s, Crab Island was an above-ground sandbar providing refuge for nesting seabirds and picnicking families. Today, dredging and coastal weather have submerged the island, making it a popular place for boats packed with partiers to drop anchor.
5. Take in some art … and the arts. The Emerald Coast has loads of talent and plenty of places to show it off. Local artists have incorporated themselves into the scenery at restaurants, galleries and festivals. Destin has an outlet for all types of art from painting and sculpture to mixed media and light shows. Art shows and festivals can be found through the Destin-based Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation’s Web site.
6. Walk in the park. Destin parks offer the best in sports and natural recreation. Clement E. Taylor City Park, James Lee Park and Harbor View Park provide views of Choctawhatchee Bay, the Gulf of Mexico and the Destin harbor, respectively. If you’re feeling competitive, Buck Destin Park has courts for basketball and tennis. Mattie Kelly Park offers a boardwalk self-guided tour through Destin’s wetlands and Henderson Beach State Park is a haven for swimming, hiking, grilling and relaxing on the beach.
7. Swing a golf club. One of Destin’s main tourist attractions is its world-class golf resorts. Between Kelly Plantation and Regatta Bay, there is enough top-notch golfing right here in Destin to satisfy even a PGA tour professional. Certainly even the most demanding amateurs can have a great time with a group of friends as they unwind on one of our local fairways.
8. Visit the Destin History and Fishing Museum. A tour around the museum might be just what your family needs to relax, bond and learn about Destin’s humble beginnings. The ladies at the museum will be happy to talk about the fish to be caught around Destin and show artifacts from the founding families.
9. Get pampered. Living the good life is better when you look the part. And feeling good is a priceless commodity that many of the full-service spas and salons are waiting to give those who want a taste of the pampered life. A makeover or a massage may be just what you need to start looking and feeling your best.
10. Treasure hunt. Christmas shopping in July is no strange feat on the antique circuit. Just ask the ladies at Smith’s Antiques Mall, a collector’s paradise that’s been voted Best Antique Shop on the Emerald Coast. The lure of shopping for items from yesteryear has locals popping in for small home projects and tourists loading their SUVs with one-of-a-kind souvenirs. Owner Nedra Smith said the lure of these aging pieces is all about the treasure hunt.
11. Stroll through HarborWalk. HarborWalk Village is one of Destin’s newest attractions, intriguing visitors as they cross the Marler Bridge. The village is a “festive marketplace” with a New Orleans flavor on the food and drink side of things. Boutiques, boat watching and free outdoor entertainment are a few of the village’s specialties.
12. Spend the day on 30-A. If quaint little seaside towns are you taste, try walking or biking through the pedestrian friendly and sustainable communities. 30-A is disconnected from the hustle and bustle of tourist traffic, and offers some of the area’s best art.
13. Have some eco-fun. Ecotourism is a growing market for Destin with all of the natural resources around us. Paddling around the bay and picnicking at the park are two ways to enjoy Destin without harming the environment. Gather some friends and volunteer to clean a stretch of beach or roadside to feel good while having fun.
14. Have a whale of a time. World-known artist Wyland gave Destin a mural the size of … a whale. Wyland Whaling Wall #88 is one of the marine artist’s largest murals and one of Destin’s signature landmarks. It greets motorists heading over the Mid-Bay Bridge with a 1,480 by 60-foot display called “Marine Life of the Gulf.”
15. Slide into Big Kahuna’s. Big Kahuna’s has the answer to hot summer days in Destin. Get wet with speed slides, raft rides, pools, lazy rivers, and simulated surfing. If you are looking to stay dry, Big Kahuna’s also has bungee jumps, Go-Karts and mini-golf.
16. Get some retail therapy. Shopping in Destin is not for wimps. Destin Commons, anchored by Rave Motion Pictures, Bass Pro Shops and Belk, has over 80 specialty stores in the open-air atmosphere. To the east, Silver Sands Outlet Mall boasts 100-plus designer names. Nearby Baytowne Wharf in Sandestin offers a wide variety of shops, boutiques, restaurants and a hopping nightlife scene.
17. Hit the town with Fido. Leaving the pooch at home is a painful thought for some pet parents, so why not plan a dog friendly day? HarborWalk Village is a pet friendly stroll beside the harbor. Harry T’s has outdoor seating with loops on the picnic style tables to secure leashes while you chow down. After lunch, head to Henderson Beach State Park for playtime or a walk down their nature trail in the pet friendly park.
18. Roll up your sleeves and volunteer. Whether you are looking for community service hours, or just a chance to help out, Destin has plenty of opportunities to serve. The local churches always need a hand. Many children’s programs are available through the YMCA, Destin Community Center, and Morgan Sports Complex.
19. Let the kids call the shots. We are lucky to live in a thriving, family-centered community, so why not let the kids decide what to do for a change? Tear out the community section of The Destin Log and have the kids pick out one of the events.
20. Get your eat on. Many of Destin’s eateries claim to be world famous, and for good reason. Take advantage of the down home cooking and Gulf cuisine offered every day in one of the dockside seafood restaurants such as Harbor Docks, AJ’s, The Lucky Snapper and Dewey Destin’s.
21. Take the shuttle and sight-see. For those looking for a cheap, cool, relaxing day trip, the Okaloosa County Transit shuttles are the perfect solution. For only a dollar, you can ride the shuttle around the area and take in all the wonderful sights in a comfortable, air-conditioned bus. The WAVE serves as a convenient way to save gas, tired feet and cash.
22. Try on water sports or crafts. You don’t have to be a boat owner to enjoy the water. Emerald Coast waters beckon with rentals of kayaks, paddle boards, personal water crafts and surfboards.
23. Find your zen. Destin beaches have a certain magnetism when is comes to seeking nature to find some inner peace. Early morning yoga and sunset worship on the beaches are a break from the mundane.
24. Race at The Track. Destin’s “Family Fun and Recreation Center” boasts bumper boats and cars, a big arcade, thrill rides, mini-golf, and enough of its namesake attractions, Go-Kart tracks, to keep the family entertained for hours. The Track offers several different types of race tracks, including “Wild Woody,” a three-tier rollercoaster experience, a slick track for older drivers who think they can handle the challenge, and even two smaller ones for the youngsters.
25. See Destin by air. Take the high ride with sight seeing. Destin has a few businesses that take customers up in helicopters or airplanes on tours of the city. The skies are always open!
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