VIP Destin Magazine - April 2021 by VIP Destin, LLC

APRIL 2021

Real Estate & Home ISSUE

DESTIN • FORT WALTON BEACH • SOUTH WALTON

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#1 R EA L ES TATE TEA M , 2 0 1 9 -2 0 !

It is our pleasure to serve your Real Estate needs! Please give us a call and tell us how we can help you make your home buying and selling dreams come true!

YOUR 30 “A” TEAM

Amanda Hurd Team Leader-Realtor 850-375-3570 amandahurdrealtor@yahoo.com

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Ashley Turner

Buyer’s Specialist 850-226-2102 realtorashleyturner@gmail.com

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‘WE BRING A PERSONAL TOUCH TO A PROFESSIONAL SERVICE’ As a local Husband and Wife Real Estate Team we bring knowledge and expertise to the equation. This is crucial in any Real Estate Transaction. Building lasting relationships is our GOAL.

Gene & Amanda 04-05 HurdTeam_VIPDestinMarch2021_spread.indd 2

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BERKSHIRE is the BEST! Thank you for voting us the BEST REAL ESTATE COMPANY

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www.BHHSPenFed.com ©2021 BHH Affiliates, LLC. Real Estate Brokerage Services are offered through the network member franchisees of BHH Affiliates, LLC. Most franchisees are independently owned and operated. Berkshire Hathaway HomeServicesand the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServicessymbol are registered service marks of HomeServices of America, Inc.® Equal Housing Opportunity.

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contents

Volume XVIII • Issue IV

events 15 19 24 37 40 46 56 64 66 68

Shrimp & Grits Festival Business After Hours Tea in the Garden ONE Year Grandiversary TradeWinds Groundbreaking Mac and Cheese Festival House Divided/Goal United Paint the Village Green Powderpuff Football Game Destin Chamber of Commerce Business Before Hours 70 Hospitality Hero’s Awards Dinner 73 Legendary Marine 30th Anniversary 78 12th Annual Spring Fashion Show

features departments 22 38 42 51 60 80 82

Swizzle May We Suggest Destin Style Give Care Share Coastal Cuisine Save the Date I Am Destin

27 People You Should Know 28 Michelle Caldwell 29 Mary Fletcher 31 Amanda Hurd 32 Dion Moniz 34 Ashley Turner Real Estate & Home Business Profiles 44 ARC Chimney Sweeps 54 Mimmo’s 58 AllSouth Appliances 62 Cryo850

VIP Destin Magazine Staff

on the cover Angie Resiak, Deedee Kennington & Karen Johnson

Publisher Greg Alexander

Art Director Priscilla Atkins

Associate Publisher Verla Price

Graphic Design Patti Hall

Editor Jeff Watson

Contributing Writers/ Photographers Jessica Bracken Britt Clark Zhalman Harris Megan Harrison Clare Lee Verla Price Anna Stockton Kiara Watson

Photography by Zhalman Harris

Advertising Stephanie Alvarez Kristin Moffitt Kevin O’Rourke Verla Price Jeff Watson

at Tea in the Garden

Publisher’s Assistant Anna Stockton

VIP Founder Jeff Watson April 2021 | 11

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letter from the Publisher Many of you that know our associate publisher Verla Price know that she works circles around most of us. She talks fast, she moves fast, she works fast, and she sleeps little. She may work hard, but when she plays, she plays hard. So, as we were signing off and going to print on this issue, she was on the road headed to a destination 6 hours north of the Florida state line to play hard - mountain bike riding. AND, she was driving an extended cab pickup hauling her new camper which was full of more than a couple of motorcycles (the motorcycle riding does not scare her but this drive may have). We were talking while she drove and as she was just about to lose cell service, she mentioned that she was going to write her Associate Publisher’s Letter to send to the design team from her camper later tonight. When she described her white knuckles on the steering wheel as she maneuvered the mountainous curves … I said, “You just drive, and don’t get killed hauling that thing, or on that bike and we will finish the rest.” Of course, she will not check out completely, but she gladly agreed for me to write the letter this month. What a pleasure it is to be introducing this issue that focuses on Real Estate and Home. There are some incredible resources for buying, selling, decorating, designing, and maintaining a home here in the Destin area. We are happy to be highlighting some of those for you this month. In this issue, you will find some fun and informative reads including Destin Style showcasing Small Changes with Big Results. Let your spirits run wild in Swizzle with some ideas on how to have a bar in any (or every) room of the house. Our philanthropy focus in Give Care Share highlights the Emerald Coast Wildlife Refuge, which is doing amazing things for the natural fauna in our coastal area. As always, we have some wonderful event recaps for your pleasure. Events are slowly beginning to happen more and more. Although the last year had limited parties, celebrations, and fundraisers, the landscape has changed and found measures to make events happen in new ways -- some of which will stick around. Enjoy this issue of VIP Destin Magazine. Be sure to check out every page and support the businesses, charities, and causes that you find included in our pages. Additionally, I can hardly wait to celebrate the winners that you, our readers, selected as Best in Destin at our annual Black Tie Ball this month. Be on the lookout for those pictures next month. Thanks for reading and be sure to ask Verla about her adventures in the mountains when you see her next. If you follow her on Facebook, you are sure to get a glimpse of all the tales she will be ready to tell.

Greg Alexander Publisher Greg@VIPMag.com

| VIPDestinMagazine.com

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3 Locally Owned Restaurants 3 Different Experiences ALL BY THE SAME CULINARY PROFESSIONALS

Seafood & Sushi for the whole family

Fresh from the Gulf Local Ingredients Southern Hospitality

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photos & story by Zhalman Harris

n Saturday, February 27, over 2,000 people packed the Destin Harbor for the 2nd Annual Shrimp & Grits Festival. The successful event hosted by Brotula’s Seafood House & Steamer highlighted local restaurants and chefs spanning from Fort Walton Beach to 30A, all to benefit the local Boys and Girls Clubs of the Emerald Coast. The foggy start to the day led to a beautiful, sunny day on the harbor. With over 1,300 tickets sold in advance, planners expected the event to fi ll the boardwalk. Attendees traveled from as far as Atlanta, Baton Rouge, and Tennessee for a weekend of delicious bites at the beach. Keeping in line with last year’s event, the onsite ticket sales sold out in under an hour. Over 2,000 pounds of shrimp were served along with heirloom grits, provided by Bayou Cora Farms, prepared in a variety of ways. Everything from bacon fat infused to the classic cheesy grits with toppings from andouille sausage to roasted corn were available. Local bands, The Shenanigans and Flash Flood, kept the crowd on their feet all day dancing and singing to classics. AJ’s Seafood and Oyster Bar took home the coveted 1st place People’s Choice award; Knife’s Edge Private Chef & Catering took home the Judges’ Best Overall for the 2nd year in a row. Other winners included Sunset Bay Café, winning in two categories for Judges’ Best Grits and the 2nd Place People’s Choice. The sole food truck of the event, The Grub Slinger out of Freeport took home 3rd place People’s Choice, as well as the Judges’ top pick for Most Creative. The true winners were the kids and families across three counties that are served daily by the Boys and Girls Clubs of the Emerald Coast. The festival donated a grand total of $20,000 to the organization that serves over 1,200 children across eight clubs.

Shayla Williams, Courtney Harold, Trina Cassell, Sheena Ogletree & Angela Sherman

Alan & Linda Meyers, Leighann Elliott

VIP Destin at Brotula’s Seafood House & Steamer

Jenni Brunson, Bobby Parker & Denise Song

Rusty Skalla, Ella Goodwin, Michelle & Shervin Rassa April 2021 | 15

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VIP Destin at 2nd Annual Shrimp & Grits Festival

Michelle & Jerry Nowlin

Dennis, Owen, Heather & Olivia Ruiz

Jay Ammons, Kristin Moffitt & Hunter Kirkpatrick

Marleena Patterson & Jill Etheridge 16

Jamie Sears & Nick Proctor

Jessica Knowlton & Patrice Jordan

Donna & Tyr Brenner

Amy Monroe, Ashley Lassiter & Rebecca Canzius

Jim Snyder, Jessica McCormick, Charles Alexander & Malissa Henning

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VIP Destin at 790 on the Gulf Restaurant

Business After Hours photos & story by Zhalman Harris

estin Area Chamber of Commerce held their Business After Hours at 790 on the Gulf on Scenic 98 in Destin, on February 25, bringing local business men and women together to enjoy an after workday get together to network, mingle, and enjoy some cocktails and appetizers. The event was sponsored by Emerald Coast Luxury Transportation and 790 on the Gulf, a locally owned Gulf front restaurant serving Florida seafood and Louisiana flavors in a casual coastal atmosphere. Guests who attended the event arrived in style, thanks to Emerald Coast Luxury Transportation who shuttled guests to the restaurant from a dedicated pickup point and enjoyed cocktails and delicious appetizers. The Business After Hours events offer networking opportunities to help local professionals meet new clients, promote their business, and expand their network. At the end of the event a door prize drawing took place, sending some lucky winners home with some goodies that were donated by some of the local businesses in attendance. The Destin Area Chamber of Commerce prides itself on working to build successful businesses and a vibrant economy. The Chamber provides products and services to its member businesses helping them grow and prosper. Governed by a volunteer board of directors and operated by a professional staff, the Chamber works daily to ensure that businesses have what they need to flourish.

Ray Proffitt & Elena Bochkareva

Ada Bowman & Ed Ward

Josh Foster & Carmen Ionescu

Fred Fenn & Skip Overdier

Susan Kiley & Wayne Paul

Christine & Joey Martinez April 2021 | 19

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VIP Destin at Business After Hours

Chloe Sansom & Lakin DeVaux

Rachel & James Alley, Larry Greene

Teresa Hebert & Teresa Allen

Erica House, Fred Fenn & Heather Julseth 20

Susan Young & Luis Leon

Wade Cotton & Bridgette Hall

Jason Belcher, Bryana Bahmer & Shane Moody

Bill Head & Elizabeth Spies

Trisha Marks & Ivana Coteat

Cassy DeJulio, Lindsey Polk & Debbie Eggers

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THANK YOU 2021

for voting us Best Residential Real Estate

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A Bar in Every Room? Why Not!

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story by Clare Lee

emember house parties that we all had and attended before Covid? Well, they are back for 2021 and more appreciated than ever. Every party host wants guests to have a good time and one sure way to do that is to make certain the wine, liquor, and beer are always at arm reach. With guests scattered in every room of the house, on the porch, by the pool, maybe dancing in the street -- it becomes a challenge to keep every glass filled without requiring guests to absolve their party real estate. The perfect solution is the bar cart. Rolling bar carts can make the fun at your party plentiful. They allow the hosts to mingle and the guests to serve themselves at multiple points throughout the house. Now, maybe you are just having a small gathering, but here, too, the bar cart can help your party thrive. Use them as an end table or out by the pool. One party host even set one on the front porch so guests could enter the fray with drink in hand. Perfect for storing bottles, transporting ice buckets, or displaying serving trays, many bar carts come suited with wheels and will help you deck out your dining room, living area, or any small space. Or, if you are creative you can make your own. Many folks are doing this from everything from vintage suitcases and steamer trunks to console tv’s. Now, sure, you can just fill your Yeti with ice and pop it out on a table but unless it’s a frat house party, using and styling a bar cart elevates the party experience many times over. Yes, you have to style it to make if fun and functional while showing off your liquor labels. Put your style on display by incorporating fun trays, your favorite glassware,

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bar tools, ice buckets, small dishes for garnishes and snacks, and it is always good throw on a vase with something live in it. Colorful coasters can help protect your furnishings, and always remember, a good bartender never leaves off the cocktail napkin - up your game with some nice cloth ones. To make your bar cart functional, play around with bottle placement and make sure the space is useable. Wine labels and liquor bottles provide great depths of color and unique shapes which enhance the look of your setup. You don’t need to fill every inch of the cart with bottles—just focus on the essentials. All you need are a few quality spirits to make the classics, plus, buying less means you can splurge on higher-quality spirits. If you have a surplus of wine or liquor, choose the best-looking bottles and store the rest in the pantry. If there is a local distiller, try to shop local and introduce your guests to the brand - they may find a new favorite right around the corner. If you are looking to buy a bar cart - the options are limitless. You can find them in any design style to meet your décor desire. Wine lovers may want one that incorporates hanging glass racks and wine racks. A lover of spirits may need lots of shelving to display their bourbon collection. Thankfully, bar carts are back in a big way offering classic style and convenience for crafting your perfect cocktail party. They are mobile and can be used in any room, inside or out. So mix up your next party by mixing drinks at your bar cart. Like the Little Big Town song says - ‘The wine, the beer, the whiskey, are the only things that fix me!’

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VIP Destin at Clay Gardens, Gifts & Blessings

Kathy Whidden & Katherine Green

Erin Dermond & Amy Walsh photos & story by Zhalman Harris

T Carol Laughner & Candace Gouge

Nichole Vitruls & Kellie Lambert

Wendi Marks & Susan McDonald 24

he Seventh Annual Tea Fore Her was held on March 7 at Clay Gardens, Gifts & Blessings. The mildly sunny day and beautiful garden was the perfect backdrop for a Sunday afternoon tea party and swanky hat competition to raise funds for a good cause. Guests enjoyed a live violin solo performance by Emily Marks and delicious bites from Swiftly Catered. The event was presented by Emerald Coast Hospice to raised funds for Fore Her. The not for profit organization helps breast cancer patients going through treatments with money to help pay medical bills and utilities. Amy Walsh, founder of Fore Her explained, “After my Mom (Jeanette Hansen) and my Aunt (Barb Schultz) both died from breast cancer, my family in Michigan got together and held a golf outing in their honor. This small family get together turned out to be a recurring annual event raising $100,000 for women battling breast cancer. Fore Her was created to continue the tradition in Northwest Florida. In addition to Annual Tea, we will hold our annual golf outing raising money for our local women in need.”

Matthew Nicholas & Steven Sandy

Louanne Coville & Michelle Rauschman

Idel Lankford & Melissa Beadle

Sydney Walsh & Daphne Martin

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Ginny Richerson, Maggie Weaver & Sandy Coffman

Blandy Lawrence, Kellyanne Bartleson & Brenda Barnes

Emily Taylor, Melissa Eure & Karla Gillan

Angie Resiak, Deedee Kennington & Karen Johnson April 2021 | 25

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People You Should Know

ow lucky are we to call the Destin area home! The Real Estate and home market is hotter than ever, but searching for a house is only the first step -- then you need to furnish and decorate it, make sure your family is breathing the freshest air possible, and protect the space you’ve created with top notch security. The professionals in our community are hands down, some of the best in the business. Destin is an extremely sought-after place to visit and live. Our local community is packed with experts ready to help you with your

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every need. Whether you need flooring and countertops, a mortgage loan, a property management firm, or are searching for your forever home… Destin has got you covered. Once you’ve found an abode to call your own, you need to personalize it into a cozy oasis in which to create years of memories with family and friends. Our community is blessed with resources that can cater to every style and personality. So, get to know some of our community’s best real estate and home related professionals, and let them help you make your house into a home.

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People You Should Know

Michelle Caldwell

What is your hometown, what brought you to The Emerald Coast? I grew up on a 250-acre farm in Middle Tennessee about 25 miles from Jack Daniels Distillery. I was originally stationed at NAS Pensacola in April of 1986. Since 1986 I have called Pensacola my home. Tell us about your profession. CEO of 3 companies that are all directly correlated to addressing the needs of Veterans on a National level and speciﬁcally to the Gulf Coast Region. What led you to choose this profession? After 9/11/2001 the needs of returning Veterans in the Gulf Coast were staggering. We knew we could not, as a country, repeat the lack of support that our Vietnam Veterans received when they returned. God gave us a vision of what that could look like in an area that was 3rd in clinical care in the country. This birthed Veteran Centered Care, integrated approach to Veterans Care, CSME, and Monument & Museum to Women Veterans. What are a few of your proudest accomplishments? Being recognized by Evan Williams as one of the top 10 Veterans in the USA giving back to Veterans. Establishing a National Monument to honor 25% of Military plus 2.8 Million Women Veterans with a National Training Center in construction for returning Veterans. No doubt, most proud of fostering 12 children and adopting 4 local children who God has allowed me to love. If Hollywood made a movie about your life, whom would you like to see play the lead role as you? Gal Gadot - “Wonder Woman “ What do you like best about Destin? Best thing about Destin to me is Henderson Beach State Park, Gulfarium Marine Park, and last but not least Big Kahuna’s adventure where I can wear the kids out and rest in the shade! Finish this statement; I can’t get through the day without… Jesus, I am an imperfect person who knows the value of God’s hand and mercy on their life. What are your biggest professional challenges? In business we can no longer do business the way we use to. We have to change our mindset in business. “If it’s not good for the employees it’s not good for the company.” I also believe that Christians in business have to take the ﬁrst step in living the example - if we develop other people’s wealth God will develop our wealth. If someone wrote a biography about you, what do you think the title should be? Shero Warrior What three things do you need to be successful in this job? Honesty, Passion, and the Ability to do the right thing; Even if it cost you money. What is the last thing you Googled? Hiring Heroes

For more information call 850-677-0293 or go to www.MWVets.org.

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People You Should Know

Mary Fletcher

What is your hometown, what brought you to The Emerald Coast, and how long have you been here? My father was a career officer in the Air Force so it is tough to say where I am from! Born in Chicago and have lived all over the country. What is your profession and give a brief description of what you do. I am the Team Leader at the Tops’l office of Vacasa Real Estate and have the honor of leading an incredible team of realtors. I strive to ensure my clients find their perfect home. What led you to choose this profession? I had previously been a travel agent in Atlanta. When we moved down here, that profession was becoming obsolete. As I considered other options, I decided on real estate because I so enjoyed working with my clients to help with planning their dream vacation. In real estate, I help my clients to find their dream home. What are a few of your proudest accomplishments? Personally -- my family and grandchildren. Professionally -- I have consistently been one of the Top Producers at ResortQuest and now with Vacasa. What a great feeling to know that finding that perfect resort home for my customers, also helps me reach my personal goals. If Hollywood made a movie about your life, whom would you like to see play the lead role as you? Diane Keaton, I had the opportunity to meet her and found her to be so genuine. What do you like best about Destin? What makes it unique? The beauty of the area and our local music scene. It is such a caring community. I can’t get through the day without… Laughing What are your biggest professional challenges? With such low inventory in condos and townhomes…so many families want to get out of the big cities and experience our lifestyle. Also, attempting to eliminate as much of the stress as possible throughout the buying and selling process. If someone wrote a biography about you, what do you think the title should be? A Thankful Journey What three things do you need to be successful in this job? A solid understanding of real estate guidelines, knowledge of the personalities of the different areas of the community, and the commitment to provide honest guidance. What is the last thing you Googled? Which group will be playing at Redfish Taco on Friday night!

For more information call (850) 585-1598 or go to MaryFletcher.com. April 2021 | 29

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3/25/21 11:07 PM

(850) 258-3225 | A Superior Air Conditioning Company

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People You Should Know

Amanda Hurd

What is your hometown, what brought you to The Emerald Coast? My hometown is Huntsville, Al. I’ve been here15 years because the Emerald Coast was always one of my favorite destinations growing up. The gorgeous water, the white sand, and the amazing people are just a few things I love about this little paradise I am fortunate enough to call home now. What is your profession? I am a Real Estate Agent and Co-owner of The Hurd Team powered by Keller Williams Realty Gulf Coast. What led you to choose this profession? My husband - Gene Hurd thought this would be a good path for me years ago. With my experience in sales and public interaction it seemed like a good idea. What are a few of your proudest accomplishments? My proudest accomplishment is being a mother. Gene and I have raised 6 kids together and I would say this is my WHY. My Career has been very rewarding in so many ways. Every single buyer or seller that we represent is an accomplishment to me. The relationship built turns in to a forever friendship. The Hurd Team (that is now made up of 11 wonderful people) is also something that makes me so proud. This group of individuals are like family to me. If Hollywood made a movie about your life, whom would you like to see play your role? Sarah Michelle Gellar What do you like best about Destin? What makes it unique? Besides Real Estate and all of the beautiful beaches - SHOPPING AND DINING!!! I can’t get through the day without… Talking to my children and COFFEE What are your biggest professional challenges? This is a hard question. I’m my own worst critic. I want a WIN WIN for everyone and can be a bit of a perfectionist What should the title of your biography be? Will the Real Amanda Beth Hurd Please Stand Up What three things do you need to be successful in this job? Conﬁdence, Communication Skills, and Constant Continuing Education of the industry and market What is the last thing you Googled? Best rated dog stroller..... Did I mention we are empty nesters now so our two chihuahuas get all the attention?

For more information call 850-375-3570 or email amandahurdrealtor@yahoo.com. April 2021 | 31

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People You Should Know

Dion Moniz

What is your hometown, what brought you to The Emerald Coast and how long have you been here? I have lived all around the world (Military Brat), but my hometown is Panama City, Florida. I moved to Destin in 2012 with the vision of growing our law firm, Hand Arendall Harrison Sale (“HAHS”) and starting or acquiring a title company. We acquired Emerald Coast Title Services (“ECTS”) in 2014. Since then, we have opened and grown our offices in Santa Rosa Beach and Destin for both HAHS and ECTS. What is your profession and give a brief description of what you do. I am the President of ECTS, a full-service real estate title company that has been in existence since 1983 and has attorneys on staff in each office. I enjoy being able to help our real estate clients through each stage of a transaction, including any legal issues that pop up during the process. I am also a partner at HAHS, where I practice primarily in the areas of business law and real estate. What led you to choose this profession? As a child, I would always argue with my parents and my Mom would say I should be a lawyer. In high school, I took a law studies class and participated in the Mock Trial Team; it was the first year that Mosley High School had the team and I was one of the lead lawyers. We placed third in State that year and I had the time of my life, so that’s when it clicked for me... Mom is always right! What are a few of your special accomplishments? My family is my most special accomplishment. Another accomplishment is being AV rated by Martindale-Hubbell, which is the highest legal rating given by your peers of other lawyers and judges. I am also very proud and honored to have received the Destin Chamber’s Ann Gibson Community Service Award in 2017, and the Business Person of the Year Award in 2020. Giving back to my community is very important to me, so it was pretty special to be recognized with those rewards. I’m just happy serving my family, clients, and community which includes, among other things, my service on the boards for the Destin Chamber, Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation, Aletha’s Legacy, and Rotary Club of Destin. What do you like best about Destin? What makes it unique? Destin is one of the most beautiful places in the world and an excellent place to live, work, and play. After a long day at work, you can catch an amazing sunset, take a walk on the beach or enjoy boating, fishing or paddle boarding; the weekends allow us more time to enjoy all the nature we have here. But the greatest thing about Destin is the people who live here. The Business Community is strong and continually supportive. Destin businesses and individual professionals strongly support each other as well as those in need. I love being a part of a giving community. I can’t get through the day without… Good Bourbon! Ha-ha, actually, I can’t get through the day without impact. I am a fanatic about making some positive impact or contribution to a client, the community, or my family....hopefully all three! If I feel that I’ve done that, a nice toast of Bourbon finishes my day and that’s a bonus. Cheers!

For more information call 850-650-0077 or go to www.ECTS.com. 32

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People You Should Know

Ashley Turner

What is your hometown, what brought you to The Emerald Coast? My hometown is a small town in Southern Illinois. My Husband joined the military and when we arrived here 6 years ago, we knew this was home. What is your profession? Buyer’s Specialist on The Hurd Team- Powered by Keller Williams Realty Gulf Coast. I assist customers in ﬁnding their dream home, a great investment opportunity, or a second home. What led you to choose this profession? My family. I knew this was a career with endless potential and I could provide for them in ways I never could before. What are a few of your proudest accomplishments? Speaking honestly, my personal transformation once starting my career in real estate is something I consider a great accomplishment. Also - exceeding my goal for 2020 despite a worldwide pandemic and having built some amazing relationships with lifelong clients that I am incredibly grateful for. If Hollywood made a movie about your life, whom would you like to see play the lead role as you? Scarlett Johansson or Jennifer Lawrence. What do you like best about Destin? What makes it unique? There is so much to love about Destin! You get that small town feel, with gorgeous clear water and endless opportunities. I call it a “Casual luxury” spot for the whole family that is easily accessible. I can’t get through the day without… Coffee and car snacks. What are your biggest professional challenges? Prioritization, tme management, and low inventory. What would your biography be titled? Mic drop. What is needed to be successful in your job? Great communication and negotiation skills. Patience and relentless attitude What is the last thing you Googled? Actresses who would play the role of me.

For more information call 850-226-22103 or email realtorashleyturner@gmail.com. 34

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Annemarie McClain Sr. Home Loan Advisor

Cell: (850) 461-1474 Office: (850) 533-8414 amcclain@cbmmortge.com amcclain.cbmmortgage.com NMLS ID # 1600155 Apply Online

165 Brooks Street, Suite A Fort Walton Beach, FL 32548 NMLS ID #2004055 CBM Mortgage is an Equal Housing Lender CBM Mortgage, Inc.– Company NMLS #282839 (www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org )

Simple, Smart, home security solutions for every need. Thank you for voting us

2021

Best Alarm/Security Company

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MORE CHOICES ALONG THE EMERALD COAST

AND CABINETS

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Exclusive area dealer for Integrity Cabinets of Alabama

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3/25/21 11:10 PM

VIP Destin at Realty ONE Group Emerald Coast

ONE Year

Grandiversary photos by Kiara Watson | & story by Anna Stockton

n Wednesday, March 17, Matt and Jacqui Luberto welcomed friends and family to celebrate the one year “Grandiversary” of Realty ONE Emerald Coast in Destin. A large tent covered the parking lot to allow guests plenty of room for social distancing while enjoying live music from Nashville recording artist Jessie G. A St. Patrick’s Day inspired toast, food, and drinks all contributed to the festive atmosphere. The well attended event also hosted Destin Chamber of Commerce members for a ribbon cutting ceremony. Realty One Emerald Coast opened their doors one year ago, amid the pandemic and quarantine. Despite the challenging first year, Realty ONE Group now has a total of 88 realtors. Owner Jacqui Luberto says, “Realty ONE Group Emerald Coast is such a labor of love for us! We have been so blessed over the last twelve months to be aligned with some of the absolute best realtors in our area.”

Matt & Jacqui Luberto

Meg Walters & Linda Stahl

Vianka Heary, Mallory Fotiades, Erica Hollon & Shermaine Sleeter

Ribbon Cutting

TJ Cobos, Heather Curry & Michael Storey

Allison Smith & Ashley Summers April 2021 | 37

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True Appliances for Outdoor Kitchen Prices Vary by Product Bay Breeze Patio BayBreezePatio.com

Nuvelle Density Coastline Luxury Vinyl Plank Flooring Less than $5.99 sq. ft. Destin Flooring America DestinFlooring.us

Orleans Monogrammed Wreath Sash - $39.99 Frill Seekers Gifts FrillSeekersGifts.com

Cambria Portrush Quartz Surface & Integrity Cabinets - $35,000 to $55,000 Destin Discount Granite DestinDiscountSurfaces.com

Husqvarna 450XH - $3299.99 GrenBots Grenbots.com

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Chimney Sweep Services - Prices Vary by Service ARC Chimney Sweeps ARCChimney.com

3/25/21 11:13 PM

The Area’s Premier Rehabilitation Facility Thank you for making us a winner

2021

Best Senior Care Facility 850-897-5592

5-Star CMS Rated Facility

1500 N White Point Road, Niceville, FL 32578 https://www.ManorAtBWB.com/ April 2021 | 39

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3/25/21 11:15 PM

VIP Destin at Regatta Bay

GROUNDBREAKING

photos & story by Zhalman Harris

estin Custom Home Builders (DCHB), a Legendary company, held their groundbreaking ceremony for their latest project, “Tradewinds” in Regatta Bay on February 26. Guests and community members attended the event where they got the first look at renderings, plans, and information about the area’s newest luxury living community from the President of Legendary, Peter Bos and Lindsey Lynch. The Walton Area Chamber of Commerce, along with the Destin Chamber of Commerce were in attendance to commemorate the occasion with a joint ribbon cutting ceremony. Guests also enjoyed light refreshments. With Regatta Bay being one of the few communities in Northwest Florida that offers waterfront living, golfing, boating, dining, and shopping all within one luxurious location without ever having to leave the neighborhood, the new development adds more to the list of great amenities. The new development will feature 55 new homes, each designed to evoke a West Indies style of architecture with a Dutch influence. Tradewinds is the latest project within Regatta Bay that will offer pristine coastal living located along their award-winning golf course. There will be several different design layouts of the Tradewinds project that new homeowners can choose from, each offering various square footage offerings.

Mel Ponder & Shane Moody

Jessica Bracken & Lindsey Lynch

Branden Peterson & Peter Bos

Megan Harrison & Lori Ward

Pete Knowles & Alan Davis

Groundbreaking 40

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3/25/21 11:16 PM

Skip Overdier & David Butler

food and spirits Maryann Troiano & Verla Price

Established in 2020, Bitterroot Food and Spirits is Destin’s premiere establishment for high-end cuisine and cocktails. Thoughtfully crafted and always fresh, we aim to lead the industry by example. No exceptions, no compromises.

Cassy DeJulio & Brenda Gray

Hours of Operation: Dine In or Take Away Lunch: Monday-Friday, 11a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Brunch: Saturday-Sunday, 11a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Dinner: Monday-Sunday, 4 p.m. Small Bites: Daily from 2:30-4 p.m. Happy Hour: Daily 3-6 p.m.; $5 Old Fashioned Mondays Ladies’ Night Every Thursday

850-460-8881 4463 Commons Dr West STE A | Destin, FL 32541

THANK YOU FOR VOTING US BEST NEW BUSINESS! Jill Cadenhead, Peter Bos & Tim Krueger April 2021 | 41

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Small Changes = Big Results

story by Anna Stockton

hether you’re selling your home or making your home your own, we all have things we would like to do to spruce up our space. But you’re probably thinking you don’t want to take on a big project, you don’t want to spend a ton of money or your weekends arguing with your partner over tile colors in the store. Relax, these simple changes will make a big diﬀerence in no time and allow you to get back to arguing with your partner about what to watch on Netﬂix, in the comfort of your own fabulously updated home.

Live, Laugh, Love…that color Let’s face it, we’re spending more time at home and perhaps our world could use a little brightening, a pop of color on your kitchen cabinets is an easy and inexpensive way to change the look of your kitchen. Now I’ve painted kitchen cabinets before and while it ranks right up there with going to the dentist as far as enjoyable activities go, it makes a dramatic impact. Blues and greens do a great job of refreshing your cabinets, especially when paired with a neutral countertop. Bringing outside colors into your kitchen is sure to lighten and brighten your kitchen and your mood. Maybe you don’t want to commit to a bold, new color on your cabinets, simply changing out the hardware can give your kitchen a fresh look.

Calling Curtains on the Drab Do your living spaces need a little pick me up? Does your bland furniture fail to show oﬀ your fabulous personality? Custom curtains are the way to go to show oﬀ your personal style. By simply going into a fabric store and checking out at all the patterns to choose from, you will be inspired to change up your space. If you don’t have mad sewing skills you can always turn your project over to the experts. You’ll be amazed at how custom curtains can tie your room together and give it a classy, polished look.

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The “Golden” Age of Wallpaper Remember when every prospective buyer on house hunting shows declared wallpaper “outdated” and “it HAS to go.” Well, we’ve come full circle and wallpaper is back and more popular than ever. Whether you go wild or whimsical, tropical or traditional, there’s something for everyone’s style. Wallpaper on a single wall or small space is an easy way to update a room and show your personality, and I’m not just mentioning this because I recently found out that Golden Girls wallpaper exists and “might” be perfect for my laundry room. Hanging wallpaper has been putting a strain on the hanger’s patience (and possibly mental health) for decades but recently wallpaper has become more user friendly, pre-pasted and peel and stick wallpapers are here to help you jazz up your space and keep you from losing your cool.

Corralling Chaos If you’ve got kids (or a messy spouse), you’re probably sick of tripping over shoes, bookbags, lacrosse sticks and well, everything. A mudroom might be just what your home needs -no additions or remodeling needed. Taking an unused space and putting hooks, shelving, cubbies, or even lockers is a great way to minimize clutter in other areas of your home and make your space more presentable to drop in guests. Plus, having a place for everyone to put away their gear might just minimize the chaotic morning questions like “Where are my shoes?”, “Has anyone seen my shin guards?” and “Mommy, why are you drinking already?“

Outdoor Galore Small changes with big results don’t just happen inside the home. Focusing on your outdoor area can not only improve your quality of life but it can also expand your living space. Investing in a new outdoor dining set and indoor/outdoor rug will bring a defined gathering space to your outdoor area and encourage your family to enjoy meals together. You may want to add some citronella tiki torches as well, as us Floridians know too well, mosquitos are like that one relative that shows up uninvited and sucks the fun out of a good time. If you want to make more of a change in your outdoor space, adding a firepit will definitely take it to the next level. Some of the major hardware stores even sell easy to put together firepit kits, so you can end up with a beautiful new gathering place with minimal back pain and maximum credit taken. April 2021 | 43

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ARC Chimney Sweeps provides award winning quality customer service, and even higher quality workmanship. Providing award winning customer service in the chimney industry is the benchmark behind ARC Chimney Sweeps. They not only have a grueling interview process and hire only the best candidates, but they believe that their technicians go above and beyond all expectations. Background checks, extensive training, and educational programs are provided for their technicians, focusing on not only chimneys but on customer service as well. For your safety and peace of mind, ARC Chimney Sweeps technicians will arrive in uniform and in a company vehicle making them easily identiﬁable. Their philosophy is that it is as important for the technicians to care for their customers as it is to care for their chimneys. ARC’s customer service shows in their performance and ratings. They recognize that everyone has a busy schedule, and they work hard to keep your home beautiful by doing everything possible to keep your home looking the same as it did before they arrived - as the technicians are trained in spot-free chimney cleaning. Multiple methods are used to rid your immediate environment of any soot or debris that may come loose during your chimney cleaning. The only sign they’ve been to your home is the smile on your face and the security of knowing your ﬁreplace and chimney have been cleaned and inspected by the best. Their team is extremely close, and they work hard to build and maintain excellent relationships. The comradery within the crew, as well as their families, has made their efforts to be family oriented something that

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now comes naturally. They believe that these relationships with their crew result in similar relationships with their customers, which is why customers return again and again. Customers' health and safety are of the upmost importance, too. This drives ARC to educate their customers in proper maintenance of their burning system. They do not provide your typical routine maintenance, they provide a full consultation to help customers learn more about how their ﬁreplace and chimney function, as well as what they

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should be aware of when using it. Unlike most companies, they welcome you to ask questions about your system. Having a fireplace is one of the most rewarding things about owning your home and having confidence in its safety is paramount. ARC never cuts corners and uses only the best products when dealing with your burning system. Using a fireplace has many benefits. Obviously, heating your home stands out above the others, but they focus more on the experience of using the fireplace - whether it’s gathering around to chat as a family or having a quiet evening by yourself, they are committed to helping their customers create a memorable and safe experience every time they use their fireplace. ARC loves and supports the community and everything it offers by making it a priority to become involved in many ways. They are passionate about making an impact locally and have especially enjoyed sponsoring many sports teams through the local schools. ARC Chimney Sweeps serves the entire Emerald Coast area and they are proud to be more than a chimney sweep company, they are a family who recognizes the importance of customer service, education, and safety when it comes to your family.

3/25/21 11:17 PM

VIP Destin at Destin Commons

photos & story by Britt Clark

he 2021 Mac and Cheese Festival was held at Destin Commons, benefiting the Boy’s and Girl’s Club of the Emerald Coast. The family friendly event, held on March 7, featured gourmet, chef-inspired twists on the South’s favorite comfort food. Several local restaurants participated in hopes of bringing home a prize. People who attended enjoyed live music from “The Middle-Aged Cover Band, Shenanigans” who were performing in the center of the Destin Commons. The roadways inside Destin Commons were closed to traffic and fi lled with people and vendors. It was nice to see such a large turnout. Guests were invited to taste each vendor’s delicious macaroni magic and then cast their vote for their favorite- all the while supporting a charitable cause. Top awards included Judge’s Choice Award, People’s Choice Award, and Kid’s Choice Award.

Jillian Spagnotti & Jen Feola

Dustin Kelly & Draven Reed 46

Paul Johns, Mia, Norah, Lucy & Jeremy Schnurbusch

Lindsay Sutter, Mia Tedschi, Hannah Fletcher & Rebecca Fletcher

Middle-Aged Cover Band, Shenanigans

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(850) 460-2933

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Progress Looks Like Creating Memories That Make A New House

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12273 US Hwy 98 W, Ste. 206 Miramar Beach, FL 32550 800-204-3825 RealEstateByFiveStar.com

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#1007 St. Thomas at Silver Shells $1,250,000 Russell Wamble® 850.496.7518 Russell@RealEstatebyFiveStar.com Russell.RealEstatebyFiveStar.com

LIST YOUR HOME HERE! Specializing in Destin and 30A

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3/26/21 10:52 AM

SUCCESSFULLY NEGOTIATING THE DEAL

100%

of people who buy here have vacationed here.

In this day and age, it’s easy to wonder why you need a real estate agent. Truthfully, and aside from providing accurate and reliable rental projections, it’s for negotiation purposes. What makes us professionals is our ability to close a deal from a conversation — our ability to come to an agreement within your parameters. We’ve spent the past 10 years working with real estate developers, realtors, property managers, and owners alike, and we understand what it comes down to for everyone involved in the process.

INVESTING IN REAL ESTATE IN DESTIN AND 30A The real estate market in Destin and along 30A is unlike any other. It consistently ranks among the top cities where one should invest in rental property. Our market is open to both the vacation rental investor and the vacationer. Couple this with attractive real estate prices, increased popularity, low-interest-rates and maintenance costs, and you have the makings for a truly profitable return on investment ... if you have the numbers right.

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3/26/21 10:53 AM

i t w h y O a u l rP P e

ets

THANK YOU FOR VOTING US BEST PET CARE & ACCESSORIES

2021

Family Owned and Operated 6235 N. Davis Hwy Pensacola, FL 32504 (850) 637.1123 Mission Statement PetlandPensacola

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3/25/21 11:21 PM

story by Greg Alexander photos provided by Emerald Coast Wildlife Refuge

s human beings, we have people and places to care for us in times of injury and trauma. We go to hospitals, rehabilitation facilities, and we do physical therapy. Consider that wildlife creatures along the Emerald Coast have those same rehabilitation needs from injury or trauma and be inspired that there is a place for them to recover. Emerald Coast Wildlife Refuge does just that and so much more for the animals who are currently unable to live in their natural habitats. Seeing a child’s face light up when they see a hawk up close for the first time or understand the concept of an orphaned or injured animal being fully rehabilitated and released back into the wild are some of the rewards that the folks at ECWR experience each day. Seeing animals go home after being on the brink of death justifies and fulfi lls all of their diligent efforts.

ECWR rescues, takes in, rehabilitates, and treats local wildlife and they involve community members as much as possible. Some citizens are even more involved by being volunteers with ECWR, but many are one-time helpers by bringing the animals in so that they can be treated. Some of those who found and brought in the animal even get to come back and release it once it has finished its rehabilitation. The Refuge does more that rehab and treat animals, they educate through various means, both onsite and off for children and adults by working with schools and community organizations to provide the best animal care services for the community. Learn more about Emerald Coast Wildlife Refuge by visiting them at 3051 Clopton’s Circle in Navarre. Check them out on the web at EmeraldCoastWildlifeRefuge.org.

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Interview with Crystie Baker, Executive Director and Denise Song, Assistant Director Emerald Coast Wildlife Refuge What is the mission of Emerald Coast Wildlife Refuge? Education, conservation, and rehabilitation for the welfare of Florida’s natural fauna. Geographically, we serve from Escambia to Walton and occasionally Bay counties. How is the organization funded? We are mostly dependent on the generosity of the public and granting organizations for funding. We consistently fundraise by selling bird feeder kits, having raffles on our Facebook page, and more. The community is who truly allows us to continue doing what we do and when they come to visit us, donate on our website or Facebook, or book an education program, they are helping us keep our doors open. We have received some very generous grants including one from our local Impact 100 groups and Sunday’s Child which allowed us to purchase equipment for our medical clinic, like our new x-ray machine to better treat our rehab patients. Is there a staff and are there volunteer opportunities? Crystie: We have a very small staff, all wearing many hats. Normally, we have opportunities for new volunteers, but because of COVID and how slowly we’ve been able to train and bring in new volunteers, there is currently an extensive waitlist for animal care volunteers. Denise: We do have volunteer opportunities for community groups, military, and business teams to help us with projects at the Refuge: land-clearing, garden planting, habitat building, or education filming programs. These are wonderful team-building activities and help our organization grow. How did you become involved with ECWR? Crystie: I reached out to have my wedding rehearsal dinner there. We were 52

looking for something non-traditional and had a great time. Right after that, the Executive Director position was posted and I immediately applied. Denise: I knew about the Wildlife Refuge from networking events and from meeting Stormy Anderson, the now-retired Executive Director of ECWR. I had lost my position with another not-for-profit due to the COVID shutdowns and was looking for the right arena. I love animals, care deeply about our native animals, conservation, and environmental issues, so this position with ECWR was a perfect fit. What are some obstacles and triumphs facing the organization? Crystie: Like everyone else, COVID has been a challenge. We opened this new facility in Navarre, planning on the revenue generated from being open to the public for the first time to sustain us and help us grow. Not only were we closed for some time, but walk-in visitors have been relatively slow. Don’t get me wrong – We’re glad to have ANY visitors! I think that our volunteer response to this challenge and COVID, in general, is a huge triumph. We have an incredible group of volunteers that give so much time, effort, and energy to our organization and the animals we are trying to help. They have really rallied over the past few months, and now that baby season has started, there’s a whole new level of dedication we are seeing from them. Denise: One of the biggest obstacles we face, even before COVID, is educating the community about what the Emerald Coast Wildlife Refuge and Marine Mammal Stranding Team really do and how important we are to our communities. For example: our Marine Mammal Stranding Team is permitted to respond to stranding from the Alabama/Florida Coastal line to just past WaterColor in Walton County. This team made up of our Marine Biologist Stranding

Coordinator and trained volunteers has helped whales, dolphins, and turtles untangle from fishing nets and fishing line, or administered medicine to them, while the animals were in distress, but still in the water. However, if an animal does not make it, we now have a new on-property lab to perform a necropsy (animal autopsy), providing answers to questions as to what caused the mammal to perish. The research gathered from these necropsies is a game-changer for our organization and the marine science environment. Describe a situation working with the organization that really stood out and touched you. This has to be the release of Mira, a Great Horned Owl, just released at the beginning of March. When Mira was first brought to us, it was thought that she would have to become one of our Animal Ambassadors, due to her wing injury. Animal Ambassadors are animals that remain in our care because they would not be able to care for themselves in the wild for a variety of reasons. However, Mira was showing signs to her caregivers that she would be able to return to the wild, so after almost two years of rehabilitation, Mira was released in an unpopulated area in North Santa Rosa County. There was not a dry eye in the group of people allowed to witness her release. You may view her March 19 release on our Emerald Coast Wildlife Refuge Facebook page. Is ECWR involved in any upcoming events? We are open and available to host and attend other events over the rest of the spring and the summer, such as birthday parties, summer camps, school presentations, and VIP Tours. If you would like to have an event, host a group volunteer day at the ECWR, or support the mission of ECWR, please call 850684-1485.

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850.460.7353

THANK YOU FOR VOTING US BEST LOCALLY OWNED RESTAURANT

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AUTHENTICALLY MIMMO story by: Madison Love

Authentic is a word that holds a lot of weight. It’s one of the finest adjectives a person can use to describe, well, anything really. A Gulf Coast restaurant that has really embodied the word “authentic” is Mimmo’s Ristorante Italiano located in Destin, with namesake the owner and chef, Mimmo La Innusa. Born in raised in Sicily, Mimmo came to the United States in 2006 with a passion for real Italian cooking. He grew up watching his family create beautiful home cooked dishes every day. He was always captivated by the smells and flavors of the foods that were created in his family’s kitchen. Often, he would sit and watch his family cook, paying close attention to the techniques they used. Mimmo’s childhood in South Italy inspires him daily for how he runs his restaurant. Every aspect of every dish is prepared in house, from the bread that welcomes each person as they sit down to enjoy a meal to every sauce -- including those on the brick fired pizzas. Family and tradition are represented in the food and in the everyday operation at Mimmo’s. You can find Federico, Mimmo’s younger brother, and friend, Junior Divaldo, working within the restaurant as well as many other chefs and friends, mimicking how he would watch his family in the kitchen. Mimmo prides himself on the style of cooking in which he learned -- with simple ingredients like the ones captured in his menu, never skimping on the extra extra virgin olive oil or the freshest mozzarella. He believes that having the freshest ingredients and using recipes passed down from family sets his restaurant apart.

MIMMO’s on 30A!

You will also ﬁnd a full bar with Italian inspired cocktails such as Aperol Spritz, which is prosecco, aperol, and soda water as well as, Mimmo’s Sgroppino, which is prosecco, vodka, lemon, and the ever so popular, limoncello. While Mimmo’s Ristorante satisﬁes your Italiano taste buds, it does so much more. Mimmo created an atmosphere that is both chic and elegant with a feeling of home -- perfect for a family dinner, business meal, or date night where locals and visitors alike have been raving since its opening in 2013. Because of his success in Destin, Mimmo is excited to announce that construction is starting for his second location in Blue Mountain Beach alongside 3OA. It has been a long time coming as growing into the 30A area has been a dream of Mimmo’s. The contractor for the new location is Lord & Son and they have a beautiful property and building to turn into one of 30A’s most anticipated new dining locations. Mimmo plans to continue to share his authentic Italian style of cooking with the Gulf Coast one plate at a time so stay tuned for the opening date in 2021 of this exciting new venture.

2nd Location Coming Fall 2021 MIMMO’s 30A Rendering

Whether you are a Destin local or not, go to Mimmo’s Ristorante Italiano, it is worth the trip. Open from 11am to 10 pm weekdays and 5pm to 10pm on weekends. See you there, saluti!

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3/25/21 11:23 PM

VIP Destin at Emerald Bay Golf Club

photos by Zhalman Harris | story by Megan Harrison

he 2nd annual House Divided, Goal United Golf Tournament took place at Emerald Bay Golf Club on February 27. The tournament raises money for the scholarship funds of the Emerald Coast Gator Club, an affi liate organization of the University of Florida Alumni Association, and the Destin Seminole Club, an affi liate organization of the Florida State University Alumni Association. Each club awards scholarships annually to area seniors from Okaloosa and Walton Counties that are attending the University of Florida or Florida State University after graduation. This year’s tournament presented by Harry T’s Destin boasted 31 foursomes and countless sponsors, including Corcoran and Reverie, Escapology Destin, Jacobs/Titan Technologies, Landshark Pizza, and more. The Emerald Coast Gator Club hosted UF’s Associate Senior Athletic Director, Steve McLain, who enjoyed golfing with the Club’s scholarship chair, Jay Patel of Anchors Smith Grimsley. After tournament play, teams enjoyed a 19th hole celebration while enjoying raffle drawings and a silent auction. The tournament, under the direction of Megan Harrison, incoming president of the Gator Club, and Nicole Browning, president of the Seminole Club, along with many volunteers from each group raised over $25,000 to be split between each club’s scholarship funds.

Izzy Bocanegra, Scott Bruce, Chuck Lobello & Jon Hertz

Brent Barttruff & Joe Reames 56

Megan Harrison & Nicole Browning

Pittsburgh Puskarich, James Cumbie, Gator Loftin & Johnny VO

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Jes Simpson, Chris Fasth & Robert Weil Registered Investment Adviser offering customized guidance based on your entire financial position. Our goal and fiduciary responsibility is finding solutions aligned with your complex financial needs. Blanken Management is a Veteranowned Financial Advisor where your success is our obligation and privilege.

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Thank you for Voting Blanken Management Best Financial Advisor

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2021

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For over 25 years, AllSouth has taken great pride in their staff, showrooms, products, and wonderful customer service and they are excited to share this with the Gulf Coast.

AllSouth Appliance Group, Inc., founded in 1997 and based in Birmingham, Alabama, has continued to expand throughout the Southeast. After years of taking care of customer appliance needs in Alabama, Tennessee, and Georgia, the decision to move into locations on the Panhandle was made. President, Tyler Hillman says, “Many of our Birmingham and surrounding area clients own vacation homes along the Gulf -- we’ve supplied appliances for their projects if they requested AllSouth President, or we carried a unique brand that wasn’t available Tyler Hillman locally.” It was a natural transition to move into the Gulf Coast market when opportunities in both the Destin and Panama City areas became available. This past year presented plenty of challenges all on its own, but adding a showroom, warehousing, and staff during the pandemic was a test for AllSouth, one they were happy to take on. “I’m very blessed to have a great team that jumped right in and got the doors open,” noted Tyler. For over 25 years, AllSouth has taken great pride in their staff, showrooms, products and wonderful customer service and they are excited to share this with the Gulf Coast.

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Visit our showrooms at: 10859 Emerald Coast Pkwy West 1217 Harrison Avenue Miramar Beach, FL 32550 Panama City, FL 32401 850-650-9092 850-769-7043 AllSouth has transcended the appliance shopping process, offering builders, designers, and the general public a unique buying experience. Their showroom’s custom layout and consumer-friendly design is a testament to the company’s long-employed emphasis on in-store customer experience, allowing builders, designers, and homeowners to experience the aesthetics and functionality of the products in person rather than through catalogs or online shopping. “Full scale displays and products represented in all budget categories is very important to us,” says Tyler. “This size space is allowing us to constantly update displays with most current trends as well as solid traditional styles.” AllSouth’s unique showroom provides shoppers with an opportunity to peruse the most popular built-in and freestanding appliance brands, as well as outdoor products in actual cabinet and countertop vignettes. Displayed across over 5,000 square feet of retail space, all price ranges are represented with a unique focus on select brands. The showroom also boasts friendly, knowledgeable, and truly invested staff. They consider themselves the appliance experts and work with the vendors to

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better their knowledge by designated product training. AllSouth staff prides themselves on earning customers for life and have one goal in mind, to provide the best experience possible for their customers. They love to see their customers get excited about their new kitchen, even featuring in their showroom a live kitchen area, which plays host to various events including live cooking demonstrations, lunch and learn sessions, cooking classes, and community events. AllSouth gives you all the ingredients you need to make your dream kitchen a reality. They provide sales, delivery, installation, and service on nearly 100 different brands of household kitchen appliances, laundry, outdoor cooking, and more. Inspiration brands such as GE Monogram, Wolf, Sub-Zero, Viking, Blue Star, and Thermador are just the beginning of the offerings to help their customers build their forever kitchen. The goal is to provide options for every budget need and so much more. AllSouth Appliances is thrilled to be serving the Panhandle at both locations, Destin and Panama City, providing excellent customer service, state-of-the-art showrooms and products to the Emerald Coast.

3/25/21 11:25 PM

Can you can it? Yes you can! story by Anna Stockton

hen most people think of canning, they think of either doomsday prepping or maybe even the Oregon Trail. But before you start worrying about dying of dysentary, you should know, canning is a cool and useful practice, and you don’t even have to start building your bunker. Canning dates back to well before our wagons were trying to ford the river. In 1795 Napolean Bonaparte, frustrated that his army’s military campaigns were “shortened” by lack of year-round food availability, offered a reward to whoever could develop a safe and dependable way to transport food for his army. After 15 years of trial and error, a brewer and confectioner named Nicholas Appert developed his method that involved heat processing food in glass jars secured with wire and sealed with wax. While this was a cool invention at the time, sealing with wax is not necessarily considered “safe” by today’s standards. However, despite the possibly high body count, this new way of preserving food was the only method for a while but it eventually led to safer, modern day canning and jarring practices. By the mid 1800s, throughout Europe, the tin canning business was in full swing. In the beginning of this industrial canning, the act of getting food safely into tin cans was a tedious, complicated and expensive process -- meaning only the wealthy could afford such a luxury with the poor and middle class left with their lowly “fresh” food. As the canning process progressed, faster and more efficient ways were developed and canned food became more available to the population. What we now know as “canning” took a little longer to perfect and really only started to pick up steam during the Civil War era when two notable names helped shape the jars we use today. John Mason invented the glass jar with a screw-on thread molded and a rubber sealed lid while Alexander Kerr developed the wide mouth jar and a metal lid with a gasket and metal ring. William Ball and his brothers got into the mix and quickly became leaders in the business by buying up small jarring companies and adding them to their empire.

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Now before you start thinking this practice is strictly for the same people who do Civil War Reenactments, you should know that canning (or “jarring”) is making a comeback and has regained popularity. There are probably a few reasons for this, the pandemic, a desire to be creative, general mistrust of the government, ya know, the usual stuff. Whether you want to try your hand at making salsa, sauces, pickling or my personal favorite, fruit jams, there’s a little something for everyone in the canning world. And surprisingly, anyone can do it, no log cabin required. Two main methods used today are the water bath and pressure canning. Both are relatively easy with the method dictated by the PH of the food you’re canning. Water baths are safe for high acid foods such as tomatoes, pickles, jams

and jellies. These are sealed by being completely covered in boiling water. For low acidic foods, such as vegetables, poultry, meat and seafood (yikes!), the pressure canning method is required. Here, you place the jars in a few inches of water in a pressure cooker and heat it to 240 degrees. Although it sounds complicated and “science-y”, your recipe will guide you and ensure your finished product is safe and delicious. So saddle up those oxen, and plow your fields to prepare for the planting season, or just peruse the internet for a great recipe, buy your supplies and get to canning. You will be impressed with your own abilities and your family, friends, and neighbors will love receiving beautiful and tasty gifts from you.

Corn & Cherry Tomato Salsa

Ingredients:

5 lbs. cherry tomatoes, chopped 2 cups corn kernels (about 2 large ears fresh, but frozen thawed is fine) 1 cup red onion, finely chopped 2 teaspoons salt

½ cup fresh lime juice (about 3 large limes) 2 jalapeno peppers, seeded and minced 1 tsp. chipotle chili powder, optional 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro 6 Ball® (16 oz.) pint glass jars w/lids & bands

Directions: 1. Prepare boiling water canner. Heat jars in simmering water until ready for use. Do not boil. Wash lids in warm soapy water and set aside with bands. 2. Bring all the ingredients to a boil in a large stainless-steel or enameled saucepan. Reduce heat and simmer 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally. 3. Ladle the hot salsa into a hot jar, leaving 1⁄2-inch headspace. Remove air bubbles. Wipe the jar rim. Center the lid on the jar. Apply the band and adjust to fingertip-tight. Place the jar in the boiling water canner. Repeat until all the jars are filled. 4. Process the jars 15 minutes, adjusting for altitude. Turn off heat; remove the lid, and let the jars stand 5 minutes. Remove the jars and cool.

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SPONSORED CONTENT

PAIN MANAGEMENT

ATHLETIC PERFORMANCE AND RECOVERY

DETOX AND BODY CONTOURING

SKIN CARE AND WEIGHT LOSS

The use of heat and cold is an age-old concept to reduce inflammation associated with aching joints and muscles and disease. The Infrared Sauna provides a natural, relaxing heat to warm the body. Cryotherapy uses cool, dry air to cleanse and reoxygenate blood to flush inflammation. Pagani Muscle Recovery is the direct application of alternating temperatures to elicit blood flow to sore muscles for exponential and immediate relief. Vibration Therapy loosen stiff joints and muscles while Compression enhances circulation. Add Red Light Therapy to experience the healing power of light for cellular rejuvenation of inflammatory cells to repair damaged muscles and relieve soreness.

The soreness after a workout is the result of lactic-acid build-up. Without proper rest and recovery, this delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS) delays training and can lead to injury. Athletes use Whole Body Cryotherapy to flush lactic acid, eliminate soreness and prevent injury. The chamber provides an efficient and comfortable alternative to a traditional ice bath with the same healing benefits. Localized Cryotherapy focuses treatment on a single area. Add Infrared Sauna for elasticity of temperature, Vibration Therapy to increase muscle spindle firing, and Compression to ease aching limbs. Red Light Therapy also enhances performance by increasing cellular energy and boosting testosterone (33%).

Pagani Detox is a noninvasive, all-natural detoxification treatment to eliminate toxic cells created by sugars, food chemicals and alcohol. These cells are stored in the subcutaneous tissue above the muscle creating stubborn areas of consolidated brown alpha fat. Since these toxic cells don’t respond to adrenaline, exercise alone isn’t enough. Thermal imaging is used to identify the brown fat and create a treatment plan, then alternating heat and cold kills the sensitive cells. Add Vibration Therapy Compression to increase lymphatic drainage for best results and the Infrared Sauna for exponential detoxing. Pagani Body Contouring offers Skin Tightening, Cellulite Reduction, Fat Freezing and Body Shaping.

The cellular rejuvenation properties of Red Light Therapy reduce skin imperfections and create a youthful glow. Studies also show increased sleep and mental clarity and reduced depression and anxiety. Cryotherapy tightens skin and reduces fine lines and wrinkles and releases norepinephrine, a naturally occurring stress releasing chemical in the body. The Pagani Cryo Facial uses heat and cold to enhance collagen and elastin and smooth aging skin. Add to the mix the calories burned with cryotherapy (500800 per session) and the Infrared Sauna (600 per 30 minute session), and you’re on your way to a healthier, younger looking you!

AMY MILLIGAN General Manager

KAILYN NICHOLS Pagani Esthetician

HEATHER REVILLA Operations

CITY MARKET BAYSIDE | 4495 FURLING LN SUITE 10, DESTIN (850) 279-4145 | CRYO850.COM |

@CRYO850

CRYO850 is a locally owned and operated performance and recovery center. We are not affiliated with any national franchise.

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3/25/21 11:28 PM

VIP Destin at The Village at Baytowne Wharf

Paint the Village Green photos & story by Britt Clark

he Village at Baytowne Wharf was full of people celebrating St. Patricks Day and listening to live music on Wednesday, March 17. Kids enjoyed face painting and were loving the glow sticks being passed out. There was a dance group from Fort Walton Beach that performed traditional Irish dancing that kept the crowds entertained and added to the festivities. Several hundred people populated the Village on this middle of the week evening. St. Patrick’s Day is always a fun time to celebrate, which was evident as many attendees were garbed in green and seeking good luck. The event was fun for families of all ages, where both the locals and the spring breakers found their place in the Village.

Chuck & Anderson Flueck

Westin, Liam, Natalie, Rob & Linkin Fugel

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Jorja Doyle & Hunter Sobik

Stephen & Shannon Henderson, Aaron & Crystal Hall

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VIP Destin at Emerald Coast Middle School

Caroline Goode & Liz Valdez

Gina Woodham & Leah Boudreaux

Max Baker & Jabari Weeks

Powderpuff Football Game photos & story by Zhalman Harris

merald Coast Middle School presented their 1st Annual Charity Powderpuff Football Game on March 9 at the Stingray Stadium in Santa Rosa Beach. The fun and interesting evening brought a lot of laughs and was enjoyed by parents, family, friends, and faculty members alike while benefiting Food For Thought Outreach. The first ever event of its kind for the students of the Emerald Coast Middle School conversely brought the ladies of the 7th and 8th grades together to compete in a powderpuff flag football match, while the male students served as sideline cheerleaders. “With the pandemic affecting our last year of middle school, I wanted to do something fun that we would remember and would help the community. I hope this turns into an annual event that students and the community look forward to each year,” said Ansley Mitchell, of the 8th grade. Food for Thought Outreach supports a child’s development and educational experience by bridging the gap between school meals during weekends, summer and holiday breaks, as well as offering learning and life-skill resources. “We’re honored to have been selected as the benefiting charity for this inaugural event at ECMS. We are looking at the next generation of volunteers and philanthropists and we’re happy to partner with such an invested and forward-thinking group,” noted Tiffanie Nelson, founder and CEO of Food For Thought Outreach.

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Brodie Hanson & JD Coleman

Trey McAllister & Tucker Tommey

Clair & Laura Eischens

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VIP Destin at The Palms Bistro

Tim Kersanac & Trisha Marks

Bernard Johnson & Donna Tashik

DESTIN CHAMBER

Jerry Sullivan & Will Estell

COMMERCE

Business Before Hours photos & story by Verla Price

estin Chamber of Commerce presented Business Before Hours on Friday, March 12, at The Palms Bistro. Gulf Power sponsored the breakfast and shared the stage with speakers from local non-profit groups. A warm welcome by Jerry Sullivan, chairman of the chamber board, opened the meeting followed by a prayer and pledge of allegiance. In addition to learning more about Gulf Power, Fresh Start for Children & Families, the Okaloosa Public Schools Foundation, Impact 100 of Northwest Florida, and Aletha’s Legacy presented brief overviews of their non-profit needs. Jason Hall of Five Channels received recognition as the Business of the Month. Businesses who donated a door prize were permitted to give a one-minute verbal commercial to the audience. Shane Moody, President of the Chamber, closed with remarks regarding E Fairness, upcoming meetings, venue host, and chamber staff recognition. On April 9, Holloway Yacht Charters LLC, Destin will host the next Business Before Hours at Emerald Grande at HarborWalk Village. Contact the Destin Chamber for more information on networking events and membership information (850) 837-6341.

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Brenda Gray & Shane Moody

Elizabeth Sipes & Matthew Sweeter

Jeff Powell, Alan Giesman & Leslie Moland

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Zhalman Harris, Daphne Bowen & Dion Moniz

Melissa Read & Rachel Burgie

DAVID M. RUTHERFORD I N C O M E TA X S P E C I A L I S T

Ken Wampler, Fred Fenn & Skip Overdier

David M. Rutherford *Military Discounts Available*

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850.460.2995 127 Harbor Blvd. | Suite 3A | Destin, FL April 2021 | 69

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3/25/21 11:31 PM

VIP Destin at The Henderson

Hospitality Hero’s Awards Dinner photos & story by Jessica Bracken

ecently the Northwest Florida Chapter of the Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association hosted their annual Hospitality Hero’s Awards Dinner at The Henderson Beach Resort. In partnership with Visit South Walton and Destin/Fort Walton Beach, it was an awards dinner to honor those front-line service employees who have gone above and beyond the call of duty. There were several notable award winners including Commissioner Mel Ponder receiving the Golden Pineapple Award for his commitment and dedication to the hospitality industry and the Costa Enterprises McDonald’s family winning the Spirit of Hospitality Award for their unwavering support of the community. Other winners included: Supplier of the Year: Moriah Murphy - United HealthGroup; Best Sales and Marketing Director: Tim Bugas – The Henderson Beach Resort; Best Front of House Hotel/Resort: Brock Ellis – Sandestin Golf & Beach Resort; Best Back of House Hotel/ Resort: Erik Boyer - Emerald Grande; Best Front of House Restaurant: Blair Brown - The Crab Trap; Best Back of House Restaurant: Joyce Russell – 45 Central Wine & Sushi Bar; Best Culinary Manager: Cathy Heppler - Southern Belle; Best Hotel/Resort Manager: Gabrielle Testa - Watercolor Inn; Best Restaurant Manager: Stephen Vallette – Great Southern Café; Veterans in Hospitality: Jerrica Mayo – Saltwater Vacations.

Melissa Reid & Tim Bugas

Misty Rae Ruthrauff & Megan Harrison

Kellie McGehee, David Klaeger & Jill Tanner

Nick Lowe & Commissioner Mel Ponder

Brock Ellis & Dan Tinghitella

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Brunch

Lunch

NOW OPEN!

Raw bar

RAW BAR | HAPPY HOUR, 3-6 p.m. | Check our Facebook page for entertainment schedule Home of the 102 foot bar including 32 beers on draft. Some of our specialties include little neck clams, freshly shucked raw oysters, New England style clam chowder and jumbo shrimp cocktail! Austons on 98, of Nashville roots, also features its very own “Real Deal Nashville Hot Sauce”! 125 Poinciana Boulevard, Miramar Beach, FL 32550 | 850-842-3200 | austonson98.com | Hours: Sun-Thur 11 am to 9 pm; Fri-Sat 11 am to 10 pm

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VIP Destin at Emerald Grande

Todd Royall & Heather Hintz

Bob & Gayle Vann

Corinne Groves & Emily Buckley

Legendary Marine th 30 Anniversary photos & story by Zhalman Harris

he Legendary Group held a partnered event celebrating 30 years of Legendary LLC and 20 years of Legendary Marine at Emerald Grande on February 28. Over 700 current and past employees attended the outdoor event to celebrate how far they have come over the years. “We are like a big family here. You all have worked diligently through the years to bring us all the success,” said Peter Bos, founder of Legendary. Guests who attended the event enjoyed live music, delicious hors d’oeuvres, cocktails, and a video presentation showing the company’s achievements over the years. One of the pioneers at Legendary, John Burns, also read a poem dedicated to Peter and Terri Bos. General Manager Todd Royall also thanked his Legendary Marine family for making them the #1 boat dealer on the Gulf Coast before expressing his gratitude to his mentor, Mr. Bos. “You’ve been like a father to me, I want to say how much I appreciate you giving me a chance to be a part of such a great Company.”

Julie & John McCroskey

Tracy Brewer & Debra Emery

Peter & Terri Bos

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VIP Destin at Legendary Marine 30th Anniversary

Casual for Kids is a way for our community to get together in support of the families who call Ronald McDonald House home each and every day.

Melissa Jackson & Sherry Harvey

Take a casual day on Friday, April 30th and help keep families close to their child in the hospital. This year’s t-shirt, presented by Gulf Winds Cares Foundation, features our signature blue color along with all things Ronald McDonald House, the State of Florida, and some of our beloved Pensacola landmarks. Presented By:

Vicki Brooks, Zena & Chris Jenkins

shop our online store now:

casualforkids.org t-shirt covers a family’s Lindsey & Sean Lynch, Chris Bos

night stay

The Pryor Family 33 stays | 325 nights Rachel & Angel Valasquez 74

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NOW SERVING CLIENTS WITH SECOND LOCATION ON 30A!

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THE 8TH ANNUAL TEQUILA & TACO FEST IS ON AT

THE VILLAGE OF BAYTOWNE WHARF As the saying goes, “If you’re having a Taco Emergency, call Nine Juan Juan!” Extreme Festivals & Events and The Village of Baytowne Wharf are hosting the 8th Annual Tequila & Taco Fest April 30 - May 2. The weekend is full of savory tacos, smooth Tequilas, live music, contests, and a whole lot of FUN!

The brainchild of this event is Chef/Restaurateur and founder of Carlito’s Amazing Products, Carlos Shaffran. “Locals and guests from all over the Southeast come to celebrate this unique event right here on our Emerald Coast,” says Carlos. Initially planned to be a restaurant event at one of Carlos’ restaurants, Tequila & Taco Fest quickly grew to become the second largest festival event (formerly held on the Destin Harbor), aside from The Destin Seafood Festival. Because of its popularity, the event has moved to a larger venue at The Village of Baytowne Wharf. This great new location will allow more vendors and more tequila booths. Taste and sample an array of unlimited fresh tacos prepared with local ingredients and sip on the ﬁnest Tequilas available today! Food vendors will serve mouth-watering tacos with exotic twists on beef, pork, chicken, ﬁsh, and shrimp. Vegan options and traditional Latin tacos will also be available. “It’s really a great place to experience some off-the-wall tacos you may have never considered,” says Shaffran.

With 30 or more different Tequilas throughout the festival, you will experience specialty Tequila Margaritas and Tequila shots. “Learning about different types of Tequila is phenomenal,” Shaffran explains. “In a tequila, we ﬁnd primary tequila aromas, which come from the raw material (raw or cooked agave), secondary tequila aromas, mainly fruity, from fermentation and distillation and, tertiary tequila aromas, usually sweet, spicy, and woody, which come from resting tequila in oak barrels. Higher-end Tequilas, including Azuñia - a two-year-old Aged Black Private Reserve Añejo Tequila from 100% Agave, and Corralejo 1821 Extra Añejo Tequila, will be available in the VIP area, and more,” he says.

Bocadillo & Margarita Kick-Off Party Friday, April 30, 6-9pm ($50) presented by Corralejo Tequila • Music from “DJ Vasco” at “The Village Door” • Small plates, assorted tequilas, and signature Margaritas • Dance party until 2am

Main Event

Saturday, May 1, 1-5pm • Large selection of Tequilas from Familia Camarena, 1800 Tequila, Dos Primos, Siete Leguas, and Corralejo. • Tasty new tequilas for a variety of Margaritas, Latin beers, and of course, Tacos. • Judges award Favorite Taco - top prize of $2,500 for the ‘Best Taco on the Emerald Coast’. Vote for People’s Choice and Most Exotic Taco awards • Live music and DJ’s include “DJ Vasco”and Salsa Band “Merengue 4” from the Dominic Republic. • Little Amigos will delight at face painting, • “Aye Chihuahua” beauty contest • Longest tortilla toss and the “Macho Nacho” eating contest!

Bye-Bye Brunch

Sunday, May 2, 11am - 2pm sponsored by 1800 Tequila at Slick Lips Seafood & Oyster Bar

• One entrée from special brunch menu • One On the Rocks Margarita or a Zesty Pao Pao Bloody Mary from Carlito’s Amazing Products.

Ticket pricing starts at $30 for tacos only, $50 for military and ﬁrst responders, $60 for general admission, and $125 for VIP. Kids 10 and under are free.

Plan a Stay & Sip weekend Staycation at Sandestin Resort property with special rates. A portion of the proceeds from The 8th Annual Tequila & Taco Fest beneﬁts the Fisher House Foundation, Sandestin Foundation for Kids, and Boys & Girls Club. Shaffran concludes, “It really is a big party!” This is a rain or shine event. Purchase tickets or for information visit www.efestevents.com

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VIP Destin at Vue on 30a

12th Annual

Spring Fashion Show photos & story by Zhalman Harris

Nancy Barnes & Carly Barnes

aring & Sharing of South Walton held its 12th Annual Spring Fashion Show at the Vue on 30a in Santa Rosa Beach, on February 28. This year’s event was sponsored by Counts Real Estate - The Turner Team, 1920 & Co., Centennial Bank, Vue on 30a, Susan and Mark Mahaffey, and Specialty Roofers, Inc. During the event, guests enjoyed a fashion show, lunch, silent auction, DJ and photo booth. Volunteers and supporters of the organization walked the runway modeling outfits made up entirely of items donated from the Caring & Sharing Boutique. The model items were later put up for sale after the fashion show in the pop-up boutique curated specifically for the event. “Our staff and volunteers love putting together looks for our models and showing them off for attendees of the fashion show. Funds raised at this event will help us continue providing our neighbors in need with food, financial support, and access to other community resources,” said Carly Barnes, executive director of Caring & Sharing of South Walton. Barnes continued, “In 2020, we increased all of our client services significantly and plan to continue supporting our neighbors any way we can in 2021.” Founded in 1994, the organization serves more than 1,000 individuals each month. Caring & Sharing of South Walton also operates a thrift store. Sales in the thrift store help cover operating expenses and generate funds to help clients with food, prescriptions, and utilities.

Harper, Catherine & Molly Brannon

Carol Stines & Karen Hughes

Debbie Pearson & Shawna Dunaway

Kelly Walsh & Angela Turner

Susan Kaiser & Teri McCall

Stephanie Brannon & Mary Kalkbrener

Penny McLean & Denise Brassell

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APRIL 3 & 10 Mermaids & Pirates Harborwalk Village 34 Harbor Boulevard | Destin 5:00pm - 7:00pm Ahoy Mateys! Seek hidden treasure and magic mermaids and be enchanted with a live performance by Captain Davy on the main stage. Free Spring Break fun for everyone on the Harbor.

For more things to do at HarborWalk Village this month, visit EemeraldGrande.com.

APRIL 15-18

APRIL 14

34th Annual Sandestin Wine Festival

Hocus Focus Hotel Effie 1 Grand Sandestin Blvd. | Miramar Beach 11:30am

The Village of Baytowne Wharf 147 Tupelo Courtyard, Miramar Beach, FL April 15: 7:00-9:00pm, April 16 - 5:00-8:00pm, April 17: 1:00-4:00pm Four days of unique events include wine dinners with celebrity chefs and taking part in wine tastings that showcase hundreds of wines. Wine novices learn more and sample selections in all varieties, styles, and price ranges. Wine aficionados meet winemakers, asking detailed questions, and acquire hard to get selections. Buy your favorite selections onsite at the ABC Fine Wine and Spirits Retail tent at a discounted rate. Live music and interactive experiences - Rain or shine we will have wine!

With the help of a little magic, the popular Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation Arts Guild Lunch returns! Hosted at the new Hotel Effie, the Arts Guild Lunch features master magician and illusionist, Kevin Spencer. Proceeds from all MKAF events benefit the organization and its outreach and community engagement initiatives throughout Northwest Florida.

Buy tickets and view full schedule of events at SandestinWineFestival.com.

For tickets and further details visit MKAF.org/events.

APRIL 22

APRIL 30 - MAY 2

Concerts in the Village - The Music of Queen: A Rock Symphony

Crescendo! Weekend of Events

Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation 4323 Commons Drive West | Destin Doors Open at 6:00pm Concert Starts at 7:00pm Enjoy a night under the stars at the most beautiful outdoor music venue on the Emerald Coast. Bring a bottle of wine, your favorite craft beer, some delicious snacks, and a blanket or chair. Food and drinks are available for purchase!

For tickets and details on the band, visit MKAF.org.

April 30, 6:00pm - Vintner Dinners May 2, 11:30am - Crescendo Main Event - Moulin {vin} Rouge Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa 4000 Sandestin Blvd. South | Miramar Beach Crescendo! weekend begins with a series of curated vintner dinners hosted in elegant venues throughout the Emerald Coast, pairing the talents of local and regional “celebrity” chefs with some of the country’s acclaimed vineyards for a delicious evening of food and wine. This main event, themed “Moulin {vin} Rouge,” showcases world-class vintners, expert spirit purveyors, amazing auction items, and a musical performance. Reserved table seating, hors d’oeuvres, a full, seated lunch, live and silent auctions, and an all-inclusive afternoon of incredible fun all benefiting Sinfonia’s music education program.

For tickets and more info, visit SinfoniaGulfCoast.org.

Visit www.VIPDestinMagazine.com for more events!

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3/25/21 11:38 PM

I AM DESTIN

Kevin Schmidt What is your hometown and how did you end up on the Emerald Coast? I was born and raised here in Destin. I moved away for a couple of years as a young child but the family quickly returned! Tell us about your profession? I am a serial entrepreneur. I own/co-own multiple small businesses here in the area, the state, and across the country. Be My Shopper, Books By Schmidt, Kombi Keg 30A, and Kombi Keg Florida. I left my full-time job on November 30, 2017, and have been working for myself since then. Also, this past November, I was elected to serve as a Destin City Councilman. What are some of your favorite things about Destin? I love everything about Destin. I have moved 3 times in my adult life and all within Destin. To have the ability to travel 1-2 miles to reach the beach, the harbor, amazing restaurants, beautiful waterfront parks, Target, Publix, and so much more, Destin is like no other place! I love taking the kids down to the parks, then hitting Dewey Destin’s on the bay, followed by some Snowballs! Three words that best describe you. Determined. Loyal. Hard Working. Where do you go for a quiet moment? With three children, it’s not too often there is a quiet moment. During the off-season, I like to go sit on the harbor to relax. During the tourist season, I don’t quite know if that is possible. Favorite places for dining and to go for entertainment? Wow, this is so hard to choose. If I’m going to go eat outdoors, I’m heading to Boshamps. But you can usually find my family at La Paz once or twice a week! What is one thing that you do not go a day without? Hugging and kissing all of my children and wife. Finish this statement, I AM DESTIN because… I love the City of Destin, I love the people of Destin, I love the beaches of Destin, I love the small businesses of Destin, I love that my kids go to the same school that I did, I am proud to be a resident of DESTIN!

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3/26/21 9:41 AM