This is just the beginning! Our collection holds over 300 years of history, including rare newspapers, obituaries, marriage records, birth records, and so much more—most of which you won’t find anywhere else!
Destin developer Buddy Runnels recalls roots and plans
Karen MacGrogan profiles Buddy Runnels, Destin native turned real estate and political organizer. From a two room school on Calhoun Avenue to leading edge downtown projects, Runnels recalls teachers, friends, and early ambitions while shaping zoning, harbor needs, and coastal management policy. He credits family support, council roles, and community ties for his long view on Destin’s growth and integrity.
MENTIONED IN THIS ARTICLE
Destin
Calhoun Avenue
A.B. Parrish
Runnels
Lloyd
Tommy Taylor
Kelly Windes
Johnny Milligan
Zacky Brunson
K.P. Burnett
Beach Drive
Pryor
Tommy
Willie Mae Taylor
Nicky Maltero
Burnett
Jewel Melvin
Davage
Buddy” Runnels Jr
Choctawhatchee High School
Marion Institute
Marion
Auburn Universal
Destin Insurance Agency
Walt Bryan
Hartford
Wayne Patton
Fort Walton
Bryan
Real Estate International
REI
Highway 98
Henderson Beach
Burney Henderson
Bonnie
Buddy
Trey
Shannon
Scott
Gulf
Northwest
Florida
Main Street
U.S. 98
Destin Savings and Loan
White House
Jimmy Carter
South Walton
Runnel