VIP Destin Magazine - June 2023

Look Extraordinary

Izzy and I have been on a thrilling adventure throughout May, exploring the breathtaking countryside in our Toy Hauler RV. As we journeyed, I would unload my motorcycle and ride for a few days in each location, soaking up the sights and sounds of each place. Our journey began with a visit to family in West Virginia, followed by a week in the charming town of Tellico Plains, Tennessee. Next, I made a quick stop in Nashville and Jackson, Tennessee.

What affords me the ability to travel is working remotely. Unfortunately, we quickly discovered that there were better locations than the Appalachian Mountains for remote work. As a result, we spent several frustrating days parked on a hill, desperately searching for a reliable cell signal. Despite the challenges of working on the road, Izzy and I are grateful for the opportunity to explore new places and meet interesting people.

On several occasions, I met with my motorcycle friends along the way and took a day to ride some rocky dirt roads. In some of the conversations with my buddies about my position at the magazine, they were naturally curious about what I actually do. I explained my daily tasks regarding working with clients on ads, photography, and editorial. I also explained that I attend fundraising events in our area. However, when the conversation turned to this month’s magazine, and I mentioned A Summer Of Fashion, my friends laughed, wondering if I would write about my Klimn riding gear or my Mosko Moto travel bags. They couldn’t quite picture me in an evening gown, attending a fancy charity event. I nd it amusing how one group perceives fashion as elegant clothing and lustrous pearls while another envisions Kevlar riding gear and waterproof saddle bags as the cat’s meow. It’s fascinating how fashion can vary greatly depending on one’s interests and lifestyle.

Regardless of your fashion preferences or style, making a statement and taking pride in your appearance is essential. Your clothing choices can speak volumes about your personality and con dence, so putting your best foot forward is crucial. Whether you prefer bold and daring fashion or classic and timeless pieces, embrace your unique style and con dently showcase it. Remember, your clothing re ects yourself, so always look extraordinary.

If you know of a non-pro t or charity holding an event you would like to see featured in VIP Destin Magazine, please call me. Our mission at VIP Destin is to support as many non-pro t causes as possible. Follow VIP Destin on our social media channels and follow me on Facebook @VerlaParsonsPrice.

Thank YOU for supporting VIP Destin; please be kind, courteous, and shop local.

850-502-7970

Verla@VIPDestin.com

Reserve Tasting and Live Auction

Hundreds gathered under an air-conditioned tent at Grand Boulevard Sandestin Town Center on Saturday, April 29, to party and raise money for charity. Each year, Destin Charity Wine Auction Foundation organizes a weekend of wine, food, and extravagance that sells out quickly.

The weekend kicks off with Patron Dinners hosted in private homes and restaurants on Friday. Each of the dinners supports one of DCWAF’s chosen charities. On Saturday, the main event of the weekend comprises the Reserve Tasting and Live Auction, which features distinctive wines from internationally acclaimed vintners, poured and paired with cuisine created by a selection of the area’s top local restaurants.

The Reserve Tasting is accompanied by a silent auction with some offerings featuring expensive wines, art, and more. The event culminates with a high-energy live auction, which includes rare and distinctive wines, spectacular trips, and other incredible one-of-akind items. This year, the event raised more than $3 million. The Destin Charity Wine Auction is hosted each year in conjunction with the South Walton Beaches Wine and Food Festival, which also takes place in Grand Boulevard the same weekend.

Founded in 2005, DCWAF has donated more than $28 Million to Northwest Florida charities through hosting world class wine and culinary events. These funds have impacted the lives of over 100,000 youth, including those af icted by health issues and abuse.

photos & story by Alicia Noble

Mark Whaley, Vicki & Rick Horne, Lane Redding

Demetrius Fuller, Karah Fridley-Young & Dana Armentor

Ekaterina Teltevskaya & Dona Uzunyan Ben & Christel Giles, Casi & Zack Stubbs

Dan & Angel Knorr

Adrienne & Trip Maygarden

Stephen & Jessica Dobbins

Kelsey & Robert Calhoun

Ashlyn & Brian Turner, Lance & Meredith Musick

Lauren Vlahos, Carol & Carter Zorn

Brock Sides, Chelsea Patricia, Jessica Hughes & David Landsman

Ryan & Jessica Fay

Zoe Babcock & Sofie Babcock

Shawn Tomsello & Glenda Polmore

Phelps & Shelley Joiner

Heidi Blalock, Denise Kendust, Susan Kiley & Staci Berryman

Meagan Calvi, Heather Parrish, Britny Knox & Heather Sprigler

Trevor & Ashley Herring

Summer of Fashion

Get ready for an unforgettable Summer of Fashion, brought to you by VIP Destin. We are thrilled to announce that local businesses from the fashion and style industries will be participating in a fashion shoot in July.

Our August issue will feature stunning photos from the fashion shoot, showcasing the latest and greatest in fashion design. From current trends to timeless classics, you’ll experience it all in our pages.

We can’t wait to share this exciting event with you, and we’re honored to be able to support our local fashion community. Stay tuned for more updates and sneak peeks - this is one Summer of Fashion you will not want to miss!

Sponsored in part by –

2nd Annual Sip and Splash: An Aquatic Affair

Volunteers and supporters of the Emerald Coast Fitness Foundation (ECFF) assembled at the Taj Renee Community Aquatic Center in Destin for the 2nd Annual Sip and Splash: An Aquatic Affair on May 20. Presented by Tim Smith Acura, the 2nd annual poolside evening under the stars featured music, giveaways, raf es, a live painting, and a silent suction. Packed with a litany of amazing prizes, the silent auction hosted everything from handmade jewelry to a Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation gift bag with season passes, to a 7-night stay in Colorado. Additionally, the top restaurants in Destin came together to provide a delectable meal. Proceeds bene ted the programs and services provided by the ECFF. Their mission is to develop physical tness and water safety among the youth and adults of Okaloosa County by providing facilities and partnering with organizations to offer programs that will deliver opportunities for instruction, training, and competitive excellence in the sports of swimming, running and cycling. As a tness foundation, ECFF operates the only public swimming facilities in Okaloosa County.

photos & story by Harley S. Sampson, Jr.

Jimmy Thomas & Sydney Stethem

Kayla O’Leary & Savannah McQuaig

Pat & Pete DeBogory, Susan & Mark Kaltz

Tim & Sharon Smith

Brad Kale & Jackie White

Edward & Kathryn Burns, Kim & Lincoln Cox

VIP Destin at 2nd Annual Sip and Splash: An Aquatic Affair

Chris & Amanda Sause

Rebekah Manley & Mayor Bobby Wagner

Ashley & Nate Beard

Chris & Stephanie Larabee

Keary & Sandra Kohlmeyer

Stephanie & Chris Larabee

Dion & Mindy Moniz

Denise & Tom Pifer

Tom Minerva & Joanne Staub

Ken & Darla Harrison

Earl Youngblood & Conor Ryan

Wayne & Monica Myers

Sean O’Leary & Jon LaShomb

Karen Keipert & Nancy Wind

Tequila & Taco Fest Pre Party

The history of the area’s Tequila and Taco Fest goes back a few years and if you’re a lover of stories, and want to learn about the fest, go to the source: Carlos Saffran, the founder. He states, “In 2014 we did a Tequila and Taco Fest in Destin and grew it to over 7,000 attendees. After selling my restaurant, we moved to Seascape and then here. While Saturday is our 10th annual event, this is our 4th Annual Pre-Party.” In a nutshell, the fest has been around awhile and has been a resounding success.

Hosted by The Village of Baytowne Wharf, the 3-day event kicked off with a pre party on May 12 on the beach at the Baytowne Marina, and wrapped up on Sunday with a brunch at the Beach House. Friday’s kick-off event had vendors, light hors d’oeuvres, along with tequila and margarita tastings. However, the highlight of the party was the performance by Mishka; a 5-time Billboard reggae album chart topper. Having performed with Jimmy Buffet and Kenny Chesney, partygoers enjoyed their music, as well as food and the sun setting over the water.

If you missed the food, fun and fanfare, start making plans for 2024 so you’re one of the ticket holders for this popular sold-out event.

photos & story by Harley S. Sampson, Jr.

Sam Grant & Shelby Welsh

Jamie Hollis & Kenzie Hollis

Matt Jones, Susie Hanna & Steven Brinker Monica & David Bell

Jeremy & Tiffany Lazzari

Syneke & Devore Jakain

Brian, Charles, Baylor, Cece & Coco Elza

Ed & Cathy McEachron

Darce & Jim Newman

Carmen Lazo & Nate Gaines

Elaine & Kevin Oak

Craig & Mary Collins

Steve & Carol Williams

Carol & Ed Oak

Connor Reeves & Noah Cahill

Alexis & Brian Sanborn

Colella Quinlan & Tyler Mac

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Pam Stitt, Dawn Zink & Jackie Shawaryn

Mary Kalkbrenner, Marty Williams & Sarah Svoboda

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STREET LEGAL GOLF CARTS

The owners of Street Legal Golf Carts, Mike and Heather Luzansky, don’t just want you to cruise through paradise in style, they want you to cruise through paradise in YOUR style. Mike started this company in 2018, after a cross country RV trip led him to discover the Destin area. While he started renting golf carts to tourists as a side job, Mike found that during the off-season he enjoyed customizing his rental golf carts. Soon after, he started Street Legal Golf Carts. What was once a one-man show has expanded into a family business with the addition of his wife, Heather, his Dad, Neil and his brother, Matt. This family works together with the same goal, to provide custom golf carts with great customer service.

Street Legal Golf Carts now has three locations, one in Miramar Beach, and two in Santa Rosa Beach. With so many golf cart models to choose from, including Custom Club Car, Advanced EV, Kodiak EV, and

STORY BY Anna McGauley Stockton

PHOTOGRAPHY BY Harley S. Sampson, Jr.

Vivid EV, and featuring 4, 6, and 8 person carts, there is a cart for everyone in their impressive showrooms. Their Custom Club Car is just the start, the customization options for any cart you choose at Street Legal is what separates this business. After all, you want your golf cart to stand out as it rolls through town, and Mike and his team have just what you need to make that happen. Custom body and interior color options are available to make sure your cart represents your favorite team, colors, or your personality. Pairing your colors with one of their custom wheel options further customizes your ride. Full custom Audio systems are also available, with Bluetooth and Carplay capabilities.

Street Legal Golf Carts offers service and repairs for your golf cart at their locations as well, and with the same care and attention you get throughout the company. Their team are experts at swapping out those old acid batteries for the newest lithium batteries, offering the latest in technology and breathing new life into your older cart. The change will ensure you get many more years of beach trips, shopping excursions, cruising, and fun with your golf cart.

Through their sister company Street Legal Golf Cart Rentals, golf cart rentals are also available for tourists and locals who just want to cruise for a weekend. Offering 4, 6, and 8 person options, these rentals can t the whole family and more. Street Legal Golf Cart Rentals are delivered and picked up by them and they offer both short-term rentals and long-term rentals for snowbirds who enjoy our area in the wintertime. They offer book now/pay later online reservations so vacationers can avoid the last-minute hassle of trying to nd a cart. With large crowds in and around beach communities in the area, golf carts are the easiest and most ef cient way to get around. From the beaches to restaurants to shopping, parking can be tight and a hassle to navigate. Renting a golf cart for your vacation will allow you to spend less time nding parking and more time enjoying all the area has to offer.

Mike, Heather, and the crew at Street Legal Golf Carts strive to give the best customer service experience to all their customers, whether they are buying, renting, servicing, or customizing their club car. Go by one of their showrooms to check out the inventory or book them via online reservations for a rental — you’ll be zooming around paradise in no time.

11th Annual Cajun Crawfish Bash

The Rotary Club of Destin held their 11th Annual Cajun Craw sh Bash at Seascape on the evening of May 19. It was an event lled with good food and good company, all for a great cause.

If you’re from the Destin area, you know that the Rotary Club of Destin is known for serving up the best Cajun craw sh. Guests could purchase tickets for a regular craw sh meal or all-you-can-eat craw sh. Adults and kids alike enjoyed the nice weather and delicious food while they listened to live music from Fais DoDo Band. Fresh craw sh from Louisiana was dished out by the box-load with the traditional potatoes, sausage, and corn on the cob. For those who didn’t crave craw sh, there were also grilled hamburgers, hot dogs, and rotisserie chicken.

Each year proceeds from the bash bene t young families in need through Food For Thought, Harvest House, Boys & Girls Club of the Emerald Coast, Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation’s community outreach initiatives, and The Rotary Club of Destin Scholarship Fund.

photos & story by Alicia Noble

ledlette Willey & Seth Willey

Les Porterfield & Dion Moniz

Sarah Sorabure & Courtney Bell

Audrey Evans & Merrick Laird

Ken Whidden & Marsha Hull

Scott Hyder & Trista Shea

Rachel Grimm & Hallie Oalde

Drew Zannis & Brooke Johnson

FPRA Northwest Florida Coast Chapter

Community Awards Celebration 2023

In 1938 the Florida Public Relations Association (FPRA) was founded to give publicity people opportunities to discuss their challenges and share ideas for how to do their jobs better. As the oldest public relations organization in the United States, FPRA boasts local chapters from Pensacola to Miami. On April 25 the Northwest Florida Coast Chapter honored area leaders by holding their annual Community Awards Celebration at the Cultural Arts Alliance of Walton County’s Creative Campus. Pulling from a pool of nominees from across the Panhandle, the chapter awarded custom art pieces created by local artist, Wes Hinds, to the Communicator of Year, Sharon Michalik, Director of Communications for Bay District Schools; Young Professional of the Year, Natalie Williams, Communications Specialist for Bay District Schools; and Community Impact Award, Stacey Brady, Director of Marketing and Communications for Grand Boulevard. “The work they do in the eld of communications is vital to the success of our local community and we are so grateful for their passion and dedication to the eld,” Bobby Parker, Chapter President. Dedicated to developing public relations practitioners who, through ethical and standardized practices, enhance the public relations profession in Florida, FPRA has professional and student chapters throughout the state.

photos & story by Harley S. Sampson, Jr.

Sharon Michalik & Natalie Williams

Jeff & Felicia Scaife

Scott Miller & Lori Smith

Tammy Ward & Mayor Bobby Wagner

Jasmin Scaife & Mark Reed

Stacey & Mike Brady

Denise Song & Debbie Dodge Bobby Parker & Jenni Brunson

Bric à Brac Destin is known as a melting pot of cultures, food, and fun, and for owners and brothers Fernando and Rodolfo Petit, they wouldnʼt have it any other way. Growing up working in their familyʼs restaurants, these brothers learned from the best. Their father, Phillippe Petit, and his brother Oliver Petit are owners of the Red Bar, and their grandfather, Louis Petit, is the namesake of the restaurant, Louis Louis. Having worked and learned every aspect of the restaurant business, nine years ago the brothers were encouraged by their mother, Rosa Petit, to go out on their own and open a restaurant themselves. Fernando and Rodolfo knew they wanted to create a unique restaurant that was “a little bit of this and a little bit of that” and with the guidance of their grandfather, came up with the name Bric à Brac, meaning a

mixed pot. And with the name in place, these brothers created a restaurant thatʼs a mixed pot of different food, people, décor, drinks, and of course, a whole lot of fun.

Fernando and Rodolfo carry this concept throughout their restaurant, they strive to create an atmosphere that has something for everyone from all walks of life. This is especially evident in their menu, as they offer Gulf Coast staples such as their very popular shrimp basket and their house-favorite tuna dip appetizer, along with Cajun and Italian favorites. The menu is perfect for a group where everyone wants a little something different. All the food is made from scratch and cooked to order. What makes their restaurant even more unique is the vibe they create for their customers. Youʼre not just sitting down to a meal; youʼre sitting down to an experience. With music

Fernando Petit and Rodolfo Petit

story by Anna McGauley Stockton

playing, people dancing, and drinks flowing, dining at Bric à Brac is a full experience for your senses. If music is your thing, Bric à Brac creates a fun and vibrant vibe with the local musicians who play nightly. Longstanding house band, Jones and Company, brings lively entertainment every Friday night and have been entertaining the guests at Bric à Brac since March 2014. This family band knows how to jam and get customers out of their seats and on to the dance floor. And this is precisely the atmosphere that Fernando and Rodolfo strive to create.

Bric à Bracʼs employees further represent the mixed pot that is the restaurant as many cultures, backgrounds, and stages of life are represented, all with the same goal, to give their customers the most fun and fulfilling experience possible. Fernando says one of his favorite things about owning his restaurant is the employees and being able to teach and guide them. He fondly mentions one such employee, Alex Cooke, who came to work for them five years ago as a teenager and has recently left to pursue her career. While she will be missed, he says he was honored to watch her grow and help guide her along the way.

Bric à Brac is place where friends and family come to visit. The fun, relaxed atmosphere is perfect for visiting with old friends and making new ones. From long-time friends to tourists that return year after year to families visiting for the first time, the funky, friendly atmosphere welcomes all to Bric à Brac, a melting pot of food and fun.

Chicken Crab Cakes

Shrimp Basket

W ALTON A REA C HAMBER

Business After Hours & Alaqua Ribbon Cutting

Business After Hours (BAH) is a monthly chamber of commerce event hosted by area busineses encouraging networking, fellowship, and a time of winding down. The Walton Area Chamber of Commerce held their BAH at Alaqua Animal Refuge in Freeport. Originally scheduled for the last Thursday in April, the event was rescheduled due to storms and on May 4 the weather was perfect for the event with Alaqua as a backdrop. Sponsored by Deborah Henry, this BAH was unique in that it was also a ribbon cutting. “We started 17 years ago, and to have the Chamber out here today is such a blessing because this enables us to show off what’s been accomplished and to also thank the community for its support,” said Laurie Hood, Founder. With humble beginnings on 10 acres of private property, Alaqua has grown to a ourishing refuge of 100 acres. Operating solely on donations and fundraising, “Alaqua hopes to inspire appreciation for environmental conservation and promote the maximum potential for harmonious co-inhabitance between all that share this planet.”

photos & story by Harley S. Sampson, Jr.

Kaaren Hinds, Alexander Leon & Vicky Kerlagon

Clay Redmond, Paul Montalvo & Junior Trevino

Hayley & Michael Johnson

Lanna Williams & Diane Peters

Joe Kneeland & Jose Marengo

Laurie Hood & Megan Harrison

Kat Vincent & Wendy Dell

Cameron, Audrey & Sam Johnson

Leslie Murry & Caren Murphy

Ann & Duaine Kief

Mandy & Ferrin Campbell

Quentin & Penny Dastugue

Brian & Michelle Thierwechter

Esmeralda Serna & Abigayle Blair

Jeremiah Brewer & Brenda Gray Ed & Amanda Evans

May 7 was a gorgeous day for The Venue at Beach Weekend to host Women United’s 2nd Annual Brunch & Bubbly. Presented by Cox, the sold-out event raised funds to provide education and mental health resources for women and girls in Okaloosa and Walton counties.

“Women United is excited to celebrate our 1-year anniversary,” said Kelly Jasen, President and CEO, United Way Emerald Coast. “This past year we’ve been focused on improving the mental health of women and girls through activities, special events, and fundraisers. So, we’re here to celebrate a successful year and our plans for the future.”

“A year ago, we launched Women United at this event to bring women together,” said Laurie Markoe, Chair, Women United. She continued, “When you bring women together there are a lot of amazing things that happen. We selected mental health as our focus and since then have had some hands-on events which have shown us that we’ve just tapped into the need, and that it’s much greater than we anticipated.”

Women United is here to be the source for women and girls in Okaloosa and Walton counties. To join or volunteer look up their tab on the United Way Emerald Coast web page.

photos & story by Harley S. Sampson, Jr.

Springer Williams & Saren Williams

Sheila Fitzgerald & Khaliqa Wheatley

Lisa Burkett, Cindy Cravey & Cindy Pitts

Laura & Cole Allen

Sandra Wilson & Neko Stubblefield

Kelly Jasen & Laurie Markoe

Sarah Leatherman & Christin Schaefer

Caitlin Smith & Ashley Flowers

Katie Parker & Tiffany Ruchel

Erin Buck & Terésa Hebert

Jessica Levins & Cynthia Brown

Scarlett Bauman, Jena Sweeny & Elizabeth Harvey

Ginny Barr & Sherri Linn

Mattie Clark & Mercedes Baughman

Catherine Card & Marcia Haull

Megan Gehlbach & Justin Woodard

Molly Porterfield, Cindy McDonnell & Karla Gillan

Dr. Olivier Broutin developed a vision for his path in life – to impact the world by creating more smiles. The Smileology brand stems from this first realization. Dr. Broutin built his practice by working towards a new model for dentistry, one which would prioritize patient benefits and support the growth, education and enthusiasm of his practice.

Through his extensive education and advanced training, Dr. Broutin has become an expert in his field, routinely training with other leaders in Dentistry as a resource, including our partners Dr. Alexandra Ortega and Dr. Fady Shaaban. He also works as a speaker and teacher in addition to working with patients on a daily basis. His knowledge, methods and skills have brought world class dentistry to the communities of the Emerald Coast of Florida.

Joining forces with the best and brightest practitioners, the Smileology team has grown to revolutionize dentistry. Studying the smile in all its forms – whether rebuilding with dentures, implants and relief of pain, or brightening and refining through whitening, veneers, and other cosmetic procedures – has made Smileology the leader in cosmetic and restorative dentistry.

Marissa Lowe, Emma Belmain & Chelsea James

Paige Coon, Jana Miles & Becca Dunphy

Charlotte Boyt, Alexis Tibbetts & Bobbi Nelson

Briley Kennedy, Sarah Caraway & Aubrey Robbie

Dr. Olivier Broutin understands that a genuine smile comes from a place of confidence, self esteem and high quality of life.

Dr. Olivier Broutin

Dr. Fady Shaaban

Dr. Alexandra Ortega

Destin Floral Designs

The most award-winning florist on the Emerald Coast.

Destin Floral Designs is the most award-winning florist on the Emerald Coast, located in Destin, Florida. Originally established in 1992 by Joy Segno, her son Raphael Segno took over the business in 2008 and continues the legacy. With their passion for floristry and commitment to providing out of this world arrangements, Destin Floral Designs has become a household name in the industry.

B

Angelina Stepanova

photo by Greg Alexander

The studio is well-known for its extensive work; they have created florals for the big screen and TV, including the Truman Show, Real Housewives of Atlanta, Dancing with the Stars, and more. They have also worked with a plethora of celebrities and events like the SEC and the Sunbelt Conference which speaks to their versatility and expertise in the field.

One of the most exciting developments at Destin Floral Designs is the introduction of their new floral designer, Angelina Stepanova. Originally from Europe and raised in Chicago, Angelina is known for her innovative and modern approach to floristry. Growing up around her grandmother’s gardens the love of flora was instilled at an early age, and at only 20 years old she is making big strides in the floral industry. She is also passionate about painting and thrives the most in a creative and limitless environment.

Clients praise her work highly, saying; “Angelina is really gifted, and I’m so happy I’m part of the world she shares her gifts with”.

Located at 127 Harbor Blvd, Suite 8A/9A, Destin Floral Designs is easily accessible. You can reach them with a phone call, through the website, or on Facebook and Instagram. Their website is easy to navigate, and you can browse through their extensive collection of floral arrangements and gifts. DFD also offers same-day delivery, which is perfect for last-minute gifts or surprises.

Destin Floral Designs is more than just a florist; they are a team of passionate individuals who love what they do. With the belief that flowers have the power to bring joy and happiness into people’s lives, they strive to do just that. The team is committed to providing exceptional service and creating stunning arrangements that exceed clients’ expectations.

In essence, DFD is a local floral design studio that has been serving the Destin community for almost three decades. Their new floral designer, Angelina Stepanova, brings a fresh outlook and innovative approach to the industry, ensuring that the clients receive only the best. Whether you need everyday florals, or wedding and event arrangements, Destin Floral Designs has got you covered! Visit their website or give them a call to learn more about their services and to place an order today.

Lionfish & Libations

Around 2010, the rst lion sh was discovered in the Gulf of Mexico, since then they have been found on reefs and wrecks throughout the area. With no known predators and a very high reproductive rate, the lion sh population along the Emerald Coast is not only noted as having the highest population in the state, but also the highest in the world.

For several years HarborWalk Village has been the host of a lion sh festival like no other. On May 20, thousands of attendees enjoyed music, vendors, beer, and lion sh tastings, and nearly 20,000 lion sh were removed from our area waters at this year’s event. “This was another extremely successful Emerald Coast Open lled with a number of new records. It’s encouraging to see so many people come out for this event and support the program,” said Alex Fogg, Coastal Resource Manager, Okaloosa County.

photos & story by Harley S. Sampson, Jr.

Gloria & Mark Jones

Addi DeWolf & Anna O’Neil

Alaizay & Jaedyn Cherry

Kaitlin Jose & Devyn Espy

Matthew Wall & Alex Caldwell

Jessica & Israel Thomas

Patricia Mauldin & Alexa Frey Shenia Gavin & Bryan Davis Andrea, Wilson & Greg Finn

Octavia Still & Jalen Johnson

Zachary Ott & Adrian Pennington

Ragan Bonner & Rachel Strayer

Dylan Heppell, David Ehlert & Alexa Bryant

John Wilcoxson, Lynn Yoder & Daniel Ross

Emily Robicheaux & Emily Abellera

Cassie Stanish & Layla Reneau

Rosendo & Vanessa Lopez

Kim Wilkins & Sharon Rogers

James Peoples & Nainoa Caldwell

Preview Night

Overlooking the Gulf of Mexico and Destin’s beautiful Henderson Beach State Park is the Henderson Beach Resort. Offering timeless charm and modern luxury, the resort boasts everything from children’s activities to a 5,000 square foot ballroom. On May 2, event planners were invited to preview another offering: The Club at Henderson Beach Resort.

“Today is our opportunity to introduce a new intimate venue to the Destin community,” said Christina Walker, Events and Membership Manager. “This new venue is perfect for everything from corporate luncheons to Christmas parties. On the lawn we can accommodate events up to 80 people while the clubhouse can host 50.” In addition to hosting gatherings and events, The Club at Henderson Beach Resort offers membership access to its other amenities which include a resort-style pool and lazy river, a tness center, and a poolside bar and grill.

Capturing everything that is Destin, Henderson Beach Resort’s resume is even more enticing with the addition of The Club. The adjacent state park and Gulf of Mexico views have been complimented with this new membership-based venue. “As a site for more intimate gatherings, this venue is a great addition to the Destin Community,” said Christina.

photos & story by Harley S. Sampson, Jr.

Emily & Matthew Cross

Shannon Howell & Whitney Lee

Makayla Howell & Vicki Howell

Hannah Poole & Justine Lafond

Kathy & Ken Whidden

Glenn & Melba Cooper

Kristi Oliver & Courtney Hicks Ashley Clampitt & Tracy Shelton

Christina Walker & Sherri Kuhn

Tammy D’Agastino & Christine Mizro

Debra Elliott & Leighann Elliott

Jen Lynch & Kelly Rhodes

John Carns & Jazmin Alcivar

Seaside Style

each days are the best, and with our weather, we’re fortunate to take advantage of those days more than others. With so much time spent soaking up the sun, it’s a good idea to invest in stylish, cool, and functional seaside gear. While the classic beach styles remain the same, improvements have been made to make our beach days more fun and less fuss, while still looking fabulous and having a sunny and stylish day.

Sunny Beach Bag ~ The classic beach bag can be as stylish as it is functional. Beach bags come in all shapes, sizes, and colors, made from materials such as canvas, EVA, neoprene, the classic straw bag, and many more. They’re perfect for packing your gear for a day at the beach, with room for towels, sunscreen, that book that’s been sitting next to your bed for 6 months, and anything else you want to bring along on your day of fun and sun.

Style Tip ~ Go for bold, beachy colors or tie a scarf around the handle to make your bag sunny and stylish.

BHaute Hats ~ Wearing a hat at the beach is a smart and a sunsavvy idea, but that doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice fashion for protecting your skin. Hat styles for the beach can range from bucket hats, cowboy hats, baseball caps, to the straw hat that’s as classic and beautiful as a Gulf Coast sunset.

Style Tip ~ Don’t be afraid to sport a colorful hat, especially if your swimsuit is a neutral color. A straw hat with a colorful band is a great way to do this.

In-Tents

Beach

Day ~ Unless you’re planning on cutting your beach day short, bringing a tent is a great idea to keep you cool in the shade... because sometimes even the biggest sun worshipper needs a break from the rays. Beach tents have come a long way and are now more portable and easier to put up than ever before. Gone are the days of starting your beach day arguing with your partner as you struggle to put up your beach tent properly. Stylish and user-friendly tents are here to save the day (and potentially your relationship).

Style Tip ~ Go unique and retro for your tent style and colors. Not only is it stylish, but you’ll be able to find your tent on a crowded beach after a stroll as well.

Cool Coolers ~ If you’re planning a beach day, it’s a good idea to bring lots of drinks and food, so a cooler is a must. But if the idea of dragging a cooler all the way though the sand to your desired spot makes you want to cancel your beach day all together, never fear, cooler backpacks are here! Yes, the lightweight design of a soft sided cooler with the convenience and ease of a backpack. Many models from different manufacturers are available and in price ranges from ‘I’ll only use it a few times a year’ to ‘I’m a sun goddess and I’ll use it every weekend’. The best part is that stylish colors are available for these backpacks as well, from basic grey, black, and white to beachy, bright colors like blue, orange, and green.

Style Tip ~ Pair your cooler up with matching koozies for a fashionable and put together look.

story by Anna McGauley Stockton

Beach Blanket Bliss ~ Beach blankets are the way to go for a comfy day at the beach. New and trendy beach blankets are all the rage these days, as they should be, these blankets come in all sizes, even big enough for your entire beach-loving crew. And unlike beach towels that collect what seems like every grain of sand on the entire beach, these blankets are ‘sand resistant’ so you can comfortably lay without getting sandy. Multiple colors, styles, and designs are available as well, from sea turtles, light sabers, the classic rugby stripe or even the nostalgic checkered blanket, these chic blankets are practical and fashionable.

Style Tip ~ Coordinate your beach blanket to match your other beach accessories or even your beach tent. You’ll look like you’re cool, calm, collected and have it all together, even when you secretly have sand in your bathing suit.

ArtsQuest Fine Arts Festival

Art Month is an initiative of the Cultural Arts Alliance of Walton County (CAA) spanning the month of May. You can see and experience everything from live music to a writer’s conference. As part of the month-long festivities Grand Boulevard Town Center hosted the 35th Annual ArtsQuest on May 13.

Featuring over 120 artists, art lovers shopped tents lled with everything from ceramics to photos to handmade jewelry. As a juried event, ArtsQuest also awarded $10,000 in cash prizes. Additionally, the annual event featured live music, demonstrations, and a food court.

CAA fosters creativity and the arts in Walton County. Through advocacy efforts, support for the creative sector, and production of arts and educational programming, the CAA provides opportunities for residents and visitors to experience diverse forms of art and learning, connecting them to a broader view, critical exploration and answers only the Arts have the power to provide.

photos & story by Harley S. Sampson, Jr.

Meera & Cyril DeSilva

Kat & Jeff Provencher

Madalyn Jones & Vivian Gibson

Violet Kelley & Amber Zilio

Cory Valle & Giancarlo Almodovar

Anna & Doug Balfour Kerrigan Wesley & Tara Wesley

Alys, Kristen & Parker Barnes

Jessica, Maddi & Alexis Brown

Scott Prill, Donna Lewallen & Shane Parent

Scott Chaloupka & Chuck Chaloupka

Couture Cocktails

story by Anna McGauley Stockton

Throughout the years, fashion and style icons have revolutionized fashion and broken through barriers to give both men and women the freedom and opportunity to express themselves. As styles have come and gone, a few of these icons have stayed at the forefront of fashion, even after they are gone. Often haute couture and parties go hand in hand, so as we celebrate Fashion & Style in this issue, we’ve compiled some cocktails named after these icons that changed the fashion world forever.

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French fashion designer Coco Chanel helped women free themselves from the strict and confining clothing they were accustomed to by introducing free flowing, petticoat free trends in the early 1900s. Her motto she lived by was, “luxury must be comfortable, otherwise it is not luxury,” and she exhibited this in her designs that stressed simplicity, as well as comfort. While her career spanned decades, Coco Chanel’s influence on fashion continues, long after her death in 1971. The ever-famous Chanel suit, the quilted handbag, the little black dress, and of course her signature scent Chanel No.5 remain a testament to her style and class.

3 oz coconut vodka

1 oz elderflower liqueur

Add the coconut vodka and elderflower liqueur into a mixing glass with ice and stir until well chilled. Strain into a martini glass.

The Coco Chanel Martini

fashion,

The Armani Cocktail

Italian fashion designer Giorgio Armani is one of the most famous designers of our time. He is known for softening men’s fashion and giving women a touch of masculinity with the power suit for women, he is also popular among the Hollywood elite for his formal designs. Armani has greatly expanded his business into perfume, accessories, casual apparel, and even designed uniforms for the Olympic Opening Ceremonies.

1 ¼ oz nocino (black walnut liqueur)

2 oz vodka

3 oz Chinotto soda lemon wedge

In an ice filled cocktail shaker, mix nocino and vodka. Pour over ice in a highball glass, top with Chinotto soda, and garnish with lemon wedge.

The Christian Dior Cocktail

Also a French fashion designer Christian Dior changed the way women dressed post World War II. He designed dresses with long, full skirts with lots of volume, and combined them with cinched waistlines and delicate or even exposed shoulders, accentuating the femininity of women. He’s responsible for the H-line, Y-line, and the most popular, A-line dress styles. While his career in fashion wasn’t a long one, as he died in his early 50s, his legacy lives on in the House of Dior.

1 ½ oz brandy

1 ½ oz amaretto

1 ½ oz light cream

cherry blossom to garnish

Half-fill a cocktail shaker with ice. Add all ingredients, shake vigorously, strain into a cocktail glass and garnish.

The Yves Saint Laurent St-Germain Cocktail

After Christian Dior’s death, his assistant Yves Saint Laurent took over the fashion house. After being drafted into the French Army in 1960, he was replaced at the House of Dior and opened his own fashion house in 1962. Yves Saint Laurent was best known for popularizing trousers for women as everyday wear, not just for farm work, as well as using transparent and metallic fabrics in his designs. He expanded his business to include household linens, fashion accessories, and fragrances.

2 oz dry white wine or champagne

1 ½ oz St-Germain liqueur

2 oz sparkling water or club soda

Mix ingredients in cocktail shaker with ice; pour over ice in an old fashioned glass. Garnish with a lemon slice.

Leadership Walton Graduation Dinner

The Leadership Walton Graduation Dinner was held on May 15 at Sunset Bay Cafe. This 9-month program was sponsored by Walton County Tourism and hosted by the Walton Area Chamber. Leadership Walton trains emerging and existing leaders in the region to take on leadership roles in the community.

Keynote Speaker, Cory Fosdyck, inspired the audience with his story. En route to his dream, Cory was stopped in his tracks by a phone call telling him that he no longer had the job and that it had been given to someone else. Most people would fall apart, yet he composed himself and turned the car around and drove to Florida. The reason he told this story was to carve into everyone’s mind that what appears to be a setback could turn out to be a set up for greater things. Little did he know that in the future he would be a Senior Vice President with Merrill Lynch in Destin; helping businesses and families make wise nancial decisions and plan for the future.

photos & story by Harley S. Sampson, Jr.

Megan Harrison & Cory Fosdyck

Jennifer & Jimmy Fannin

David Butler & Nero Randolph

Rebekah Paul & Norma Jean Umble

Tia Guidry & Alexis White

Catherine Walega & Abby Hughes Audie Rowell & Robert Gray

Brittany & Stan Blackman

Karen Morris, Matt Algarin & Kelli Carter

Nichole, Scarlett & Josh Standridge

Chris & Lindsey Harp, Janet Parker

Mya Brown, Zee Brown & Shirles Andrews

Interview with Crista Brandt & Jennifer Elzweig ~ Valerie’s House

What is Valerie’s House?

Valerie’s House Pensacola is a free grief support program and the only non-pro t 501(c)(3) organization in the community whose sole mission is dedicated to helping children and their families to share, grieve, and heal from their losses. We are a children’s grief center in Escambia/ Santa Rosa Counties, serving children ages 5-18 and their families who have had a parent or sibling die. Our long-term vision is to open chapters in Fort Walton Beach, Destin, and Panama City.

How did this organization come about?

Valerie’s House opened its doors in January 2016, but it was a concept a long time in the making. Valerie Melvin was just 31-years-old when she lost her life in an automobile accident in Fort Myers in 1987. She left behind a loving husband and two small children, including Angela, then 10-years old.

After high school, Angela moved away to college and eventually became a journalist, living in various regions of the country. Upon returning to Fort Myers in 2013, she wanted to volunteer with grieving children like she once was and noticed there were very few resources for children to connect and heal together.

Among their services, Valerie’s House provides open-ended peer support groups and activities for children to heal after a signi cant loss in their life. Valerie’s House is not a formal counseling center. It is a community and a platform for individuals to come together, share, and mentor each other through their grief. There is nothing like it in Southwest Florida — Valerie’s House was the rst organization between Tampa and Miami focused on supporting grieving children on an ongoing basis.

What impact does Valerie’s House have on the community?

When children experience the loss of a parent or sibling, it shakes their foundation during a time when they are still learning about themselves and the world around them. The impact is so catastrophic, that if not processed and addressed, they are at risk of being met with many pitfalls on their way to adulthood. At Valerie’s House Pensacola (VHP) our mission is to help children and families work through the loss of a loved one together and go on to live ful lling lives. Our vision is that no child will grieve alone.

The Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACE) Study indicates the death of a sibling or parent as one of the most developmentally disruptive and traumatic experiences a child can go through, yet resources are slim in most communities. And most don’t realize that grief is actually the root cause for so much in society.

photos provided by Valerie’s House

We know that –

-30% of the children in Florida’s juvenile detection system suffered the loss of a parent or sibling to death as tracked by the Department of Juvenile Justice

-Children who have lost a parent, without the support of others and the tools to know how to grieve, often turn to risk-taking and self-harming behaviors, drugs, criminal activity, and other disorders to cope with grief and are 5x more likely to suffer from depression and anxiety, and 5x more likely to struggle with addiction.

-Impact on Local Schools – Children who are grieving are twice as likely to see their grades drop and experience loss of memory and concentration, lower attendance as well as suffer from emotional or angry outbursts during the school day.

-Many of these incidents are seen as a discipline problem, instead of educators understanding the root of the cause is grief and providing resources.

These long-term effects and numbers prove that grief is, without a doubt, a child welfare issue.

What are some future goals?

Our goals for 2023 and 2024 are to expand our current programing in our new permanent space at 904 East Gadsden Street. Our short-term goals include partnering with Licensed Mental Health Counselors to offer free grief support counseling to some of our VHP kids who are most in need of one-on-one counseling to augment our support groups. Another goal as we grow in the community is to be able to offer more loss speci c group nights for things like sibling loss, traumatic deaths (like homicide and suicide), and grandparents raising kids.

What are your roles and how did you get involved with Valerie’s House?

Crista Brandt: Crista is the Northwest Florida Director of Valerie’s House. In 2020, Crista partnered with founder and CEO Angela Melvin to bring peer-to-peer support groups for grieving children to Pensacola. Like our Founder, Crista also lost her mother in 1987. Suzanne O’Keefe died of cancer when Crista was 11 years old. After the death of her mother, Crista’s grief remained repressed for many years. When she nally addressed her grief wholeheartedly, she began to volunteer through an organization in Atlanta, where she realized how many children had experienced parental death just like her. Crista spearheaded the launch of Valerie’s House in late 2020, expanding to a permanent location in 2022. After running the program on a volunteer basis for two years, Crista made the transition to run Valerie’s House- Pensacola fulltime.

Jennifer Elzweig: Starting as a board member and volunteer facilitator for the “littles” peer support group, Jenni quickly became immersed in Valerie’s House. She is eager to serve her Panhandle community as the Escambia County Program Manager. She’s had a passion for helping those who are grieving since she was young, volunteering as a hospice respite provider right out of high school.

Jenni also knows what it feels like to lose a parent as her father died from a stroke when she was a young adult. She uses this experience to relate to the kids. Teaching and serving are second nature to her, and she is grateful that families have a warm and loving environment at Valerie’s House.

What would you like our readers to know about Valerie’s House?

Parental and sibling death is one of the most developmentally disruptive events a child can go through. Our whole organization is based on supporting children who have experienced death, so they realize that loss doesn’t have to limit their dreams. Grief takes on many forms, not just sadness. Our model helps children share, connect, and build bonds with other kids their age that are dealing with similar experiences. The Peer-to-Peer groups provide children the opportunity to decrease isolation, identify and become aware of their normal feelings of grief, and learn safe and effective ways to manage their dif cult feelings. We help make connections between their grief stories, so they know they aren’t alone.

If you know a family in our area that is in need of grief support services, please refer them to our program coordinator.

Contact Valerie’s House- Pensacola: Jennifer.Elzweig@ValeriesHouse.org

(850) 582-8255

How can someone get involved and/or support your nonprofit?

Volunteers are the backbone of our program. They make Valerie’s House work. If you are interested in becoming a volunteer, please ll out an application on the Valerie’s House Pensacola Website, https://valerieshouse.org/volunteerin-pensacola or contact Crista@valerieshouse.org for more information.

If volunteering isn’t an option for you, however you would still like to support our program, consider making a donation to sponsor a child for a year, donate a meal, or purchase something from our Amazon wish list. https://valerieshouse. org/pensacola.

Young Professionals of Northwest Florida Leadership Conference

Jason Hall, Founder & CEO of Five Channels, said, “Success in business lies with an embrace of change.” We are taught that change is inevitable, and if you’ve been around long enough, you’ll agree that the workplace has de nitely seen its share of changes. Sure, there is more automation, structured processes, and now arti cial intelligence, however, it’s the change in attitudes, motivation and how coworkers treat each other that is paving the way for the future. On May 16, these topics and more were covered at the Young Professionals Leadership Conference of Northwest Florida.

Hosted by the Greater Fort Walton, Destin, Walton, Niceville/Valparaiso and Crestview Chambers of Commerce, over 100 young professionals gathered at Northwest Florida State College to hear speakers from the region talk about everything from team building to community involvement.

The lead off keynote speaker was Lt. Col Michael Loconsolo, Commander of 1st Battalion, 7th Special Forces. As he spoke, everyone in the room gave him their whole attention. He spoke on war, he talked about love, and he talked about business. “Get the right people who will t in your organization and be committed to each other,” stated Lt. Col Loconsolo. He asked the area’s young professionals what goes into building a cohesive team and you could hear people blurt out: trust, communication, ethics, collaboration and contribution. While he agreed with words, he also shared that it is important to take care of people and their families.

photos & story by Harley S. Sampson, Jr.

Margaret Gordon & Katie Cagle

Faith Cervantes & Rachel Morris

Ted Corcoran, Tricia Brunson & Michael Loconsolo

Skylar McQueen & Malachi Boykin

Alysson Wrann & Patreece Hinley-Early

Annalise Dedicke & Ryan Cobb

Shawn Tedder & Adam Dimattia

Dee & Michel Clark

Summer Padgett & Ashlyn Temples

Enzo Ouellette & Albert Sousa

Christian Watkins & Andrew Spenner

Shane Moody, Jason Belcher & Jason Hall

Kelly Jasen & Aubrey Robbie

Alan Meyers & Briley Kennedy

Jacie Chandler & Nicole Malley

Jessica O’Neill, Mia Martensen & Lavona Hughes

Stephanie Nelson, Carol Perrucci & Danni Witz

Ivan Gutierrez Receives ACE Award

By

Harley S. Sampson,

Jr.: For years, the City of Fort Walton Beach has acknowledged students from the city’s high schools by giving two students each month an Award For Excellence. On May 23, the Fort Walton Beach City Council recognized Ivan Gutierrez from Fort Walton Beach High School. Prior to City Manager Jeff Peters giving Ivan the award, Mayor Pro Tem, Nic Allegretto introduced Ivan by talking about his success at Fort Walton Beach High School. “Ivan majored in computer science with a weighted G.P.A. of 4.61 and ranks 10th in his senior class,” said Jeff.

Trees on the Coast Visits Destin Elementary

Women of Honor Recognized by the Okaloosa County Commission on the Status of Women

When asked about his senior year and the future, Ivan said, “This school year has been really enjoyable as I’ve had some of the greatest moments of my life. I plan to follow in my father’s footsteps. As an immigrant, my father came from nothing and started his own business, Pepito’s, and now he has a kid going to Harvard. I want to live his legacy and be just as successful as he is.”

By Will Estell: Board members of Destin based non-profit, Trees On The Coast, talked with almost 200 graduating fourth graders at Destin Elementary School, educating the outgoing classes on the importance of conservation.

The program, which took place May 19, emphasized hands-on experience digging holes and planting the trees that the three board members had unloaded from a large delivery truck earlier the same morning.

In addition to board members Bobby Wagner, Rebekah Manley, and Will Estell, assisting the students in planting fifteen Live Oaks (about six feet tall each) across a 100yard span in front of Destin Elementary, the students also gained some insight from TOC’s CEO, and Destin Mayor, Wagner, as to the importance of trees in enhancing and beautifying our world.

Trees On The Coast was founded in 2015 and since that time has been instrumental in providing and planting over 600 trees, from Palms to Live Oaks, in strategically placed areas across Okaloosa and Walton county, free of charge, in the 501 C3’s mission to help beautify and enhance the coastal areas their members call home.

The ladies pictured were recognized at the Women of Honor event at UWF Emerald Coast on Thursday, May 4. The event was sponsored by the Okaloosa County Commission on the Status of Women (OCCSW). Each woman’s name has been added to a plaque that hangs on the Wall of Honor at the UWF Emerald Coast campus library. A letter that includes the honorees photo and brief nomination bio along with the names of the person or people who nominated her, will be placed in the Book of Honor below the plaque. Special thanks to Nick Tomecek for this group photo.

Second row (l-r) Deborah Stone, Doris Scaife, Christie Pratt, Jan Pooley, Belva Parrott. Standing on the right Kathie H. Blue.

Third row (l-r) Lija Eldridge, Caralee Gibson, Maureen Bierman, Rochelle Brown, Cindy Frakes, Kathy Marler Blue, and Sabina Zungze (chair of OCCSW).

Back row (l-r) Michelle Carmical, Kristen Genrich and Sheila Hale.

Not pictured: Nitsi Bennett, Dr. Sandra Hanson, Holly Karr, Lenda McCain, Dr. Maxine Reed

Front row (l-r) Quandra Pace, Clara Oates, Mary Bell Lundsford, Joyce Loughrige and Teneka Lock. Standing on the left Pam Strecker and LaShana Douville.

Sandra & Ivan Gutierrez

Jeff Peters, Ivan Gutierrez & John Spolski

Paddle at the Park

The waves looked like they might present a challenge, however, no one backed down and the 11th Annual Paddle at the Park went on without any major splashes on May 6.

Sponsored by HCA Florida Destin Emergency, this paddle-board race brought competitors and their supporters to Florida’s white-sandy beaches for a festive weekend of all things SUP. Opening with a welcome party at Al’s Beach Club at The Boardwalk on Okaloosa Island, the exciting event featured a 6-mile elite race, 1 and 3-mile recreational races, along with a kid’s fun race. “11 years ago, we started this race in partnership with the Destin Chamber of Commerce to showcase our beautiful area,” said Suzy Hunt, BOTE National Events Manager. As with previous races, Suzy noted that, “Paddlers come from all over for a great day of family fun.”

Featuring lively music and a variety of booths, participants and their supporters were able to enjoy a beautiful morning on Okaloosa Island. And when all was said-and-done, the day was extended by visiting the stores and restaurants at The Boardwalk, a Paddle at the Park race partner.

photos & story by Harley S. Sampson, Jr.

Michelle Feits & Gloria Bailey

Joshua Cowsert & Brenda Gray

Leslie Harding & Laura Coale

Meredith & Sydney Grunden

Wendi Davis & Myla Martinez Marc Runsavinlle & Georges Outmezguine

Billy Kernen & Suzy Hunt

Danna & Ty Faith

Bill Head & Jennifer Becker

Erick Kern & Cara Mitchell

Jane & Tony Powell

Andy & Rebecca Nash

Shane Moody & Jennifer Gutai Comella

Trisha Marks & Robert Marshall

Steven Gallagher & Alex Warren

Fredey Bahmer & Fred Fenn

Sam King & Brian Edwards

Suzanne Clark & Cynthia Trimble

Bryana Bahmer & Jason Belcher

Katie Piasecki & Jennifer Carlisto

I AM DESTIN Stacey Brady

What is your hometown?

I hail from Memphis, TN, and it was a great hometown. I moved here with my husband and two young daughters 27 years ago. When my mother passed away unexpectedly, my husband and I realized life was short and we opted to make a speci c lifestyle change, leaving behind the corporate milieu (or so we thought!). As it worked out, both of the companies we worked for were looking to expand their services and were dipping their toes into a workremotely scenario. It worked beautifully for us and we’ve never looked back.

What is your profession?

I’ve been a marketing and communications executive my entire career. Throughout college I worked in my university’s of ce of media relations, while also working at Fed Ex and was pegged for their public relations program. In both cases, their training was so impactful to me. Right out of college, while working at the NBCTV news af liate in Memphis, I met one of their former producers who had moved into a marketing executive position. We hit it off and I went to work for her. I’ve been incredibly fortunate to work for outstanding companies and clients that I truly believe in, and they’ve allowed me to make meaningful contributions for their success. That’s important to me.

What are some of your favorite things about Destin?

Living in Destin and raising our children here has been idyllic. Our girls attended Destin schools and it was a great experience. My husband and I worked from home for several years and that was such a bonus as it permitted us the opportunity to attend the kids’ events, take the occasional walk on the beach during the work week, and simply slow down a bit. The quality of life in Destin has always been the attraction. Over the past 27 years, we’ve seen a lot of change, and that’s to be expected. But the quality of life remains. We still take walks on the beach every chance we get! The Gulf waters calm and inspire me. I will say, any water-related activity is just the best here in Destin. Boating, shing, checking out the Harbor – these are experiences unique to Destin.

Three words that best describe you.

Grateful, Passionate, Principled.

What are your favorite places to go?

We enjoy walking down to the beach, taking in the scene and enjoying the hypotic shimmering water. We’ve been going to the Destin Fishing Rodeo for as long as I can remember. Hearing Bruce call the weigh-ins is entertaining and it’s really exciting when a big sh is on its way in. Yoshi’s sushi from Harbor Docks or Camille’s is our go-to dinner. We’ve eaten sushi in many cities and no one does it better than her. Dewey Destin’s is our favorite for a getaway lunch on the water. Burrito Del Sol, Craft Bar, The Boathouse, Jasmine Thai, and Island Wings are all in the mix for us.

What is one thing that you do not go a day without?

A hug and a kiss from my husband, Mike.

Finish this statement. I AM Destin because…

I am an optimist and view life with the glass half full. We are incredibly fortunate to live in a place where people save all year just to enjoy a week or two. We get to live and work here! Destin has been very good to me and I remain excited for its future.

photo by Harley S. Sampson, Jr.