Emerald Coast Magazine- June/July 2015

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REMEMBERING THE PAST, SEEING THE FUTURE

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The Emerald Coast Magazine June + July 2015

contents

F E AT U RE S

68 Reading the Wind

The tradition and passion of sailing the Emerald Coast

BY TROY GILBERT

76

Renting the Coast

With few name-brand hotels, most visitors here stay in privately owned houses and condos

TROY GILBERT

BY REBEKAH SANDERLIN

There are new families beginning their legacies on the water every day and learning what it means to have that sail full in the breeze and those island shores within their grasp.

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contents in the e.c.

21 Snapshot This is “klearly” the way to have fun in the sun while on the water.

22 Well-Worded A picture-perfect way to “read” the Gulfarium’s 60th anniversary.

26 Chat Cheers to sommelier Myers McDougal.

28 Personality Meet the Patti’s — Pensacola’s seafood czars.

35 Scene Kudos and congrats, faces in new places, interesting news nuggets and more.

happenings 21

39 Spotlight “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” is a Grand way to spend a summer evening.

40 Culture We hypothesize you’ll love this new and improved museum.

46 Calendar Summertime means time for soaking in fun festivals and fetes.

57 Social Studies We capture a snapshot of who’s out and about on the EC scene.

the good life 86 Habitat Fifteen of our favorite farmhousechic home trends.

101 Gardening The sure cure for all that ails your garden.

107 F.Y.I. Should you put down this pick-me-up beverage trend?

110 In Motion Scuba+Snorkel = Snuba!

86 A WORD WITH YOU 12 From the Publisher 14 Editor’s Note 146 The Last Word

SPECIAL SECTIONS 64 Top Salon Recap 92 Deal Estate 112 Best of Ballot

118 Going Places Find out why we are just plain crazy for Nebraska.

122 Mind + Body Meet the antidote to 21stcentury stress … meditation.

126 Flavor We bring you a fresh, juicy story on America’s favorite summertime snack.

130 A Taste For … Drinking in the “sunshine vitamin.”

133 Dining Just a taste of what’s on menus along the Emerald Coast.

145 On the Menu An authentic schnitzel lodge in Niceville? Jawohl!

126 8 June–July 2015

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Follow us @emeraldcoastmag

Like us at facebook.com/emeraldcoast

PHOTOS BY PURE 7 STUDIOS (21) AND COURTESY OF KOHLER (86) AND WATERMELON PROMOTION BOARD (126)

85 Eudaimonia C’mon Moondoggie, let’s (learn to) surf!

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM June–July 2015

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VOL. 16, NO. 3 JUNE–JULY 2015 THE EMERALD COAST MAGAZINE

PRESIDENT/PUBLISHER

BRIAN E. ROWLAND EDITORIAL DIRECTOR OF EDITORIAL SERVICES Steve Bornhoft EDITOR Zandra Wolfgram SENIOR STAFF WRITER Jason Dehart STAFF WRITER Chay D. Baxley CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Shelby Bouck, Amy Coble, Tisha Crews Keller, Rosanne Dunkelberger, Troy Gilbert, Jennifer Ireland, Ashley Kahn Salley, Lis King, John Mooshie, Rebecca Padgett, Audrey Post, Rebekah Sanderlin, Liesel Schmidt EDITORIAL INTERNS Shelby Bouck, Leanne Castro, Kristopher “Max” Greenwood, Ellen Pribil PRODUCTION SPECIALIST Melinda Lanigan COPY EDITOR Barry Ray

CREATIVE CREATIVE DIRECTOR Lawrence Davidson PRODUCTION MANAGER/ NETWORK ADMINISTRATOR Daniel Vitter SENIOR ART DIRECTOR Saige Roberts ART DIRECTOR Jennifer Ekrut PUBLICATION DESIGNERS Shruti Shah, Rebecca Sumerall ADVERTISING DESIGNERS Jillian Fry, Amanda Hartsfield CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Tommy Crow, Mari Darr~Welch, Emerald Coast Real Estate Photography, Holly Gardner, Troy Gilbert, Scott Holstein, Isacks Imagery, Kurt Lischka, Jim Mayfield, Melenbacker Photography, Tracy Mulligan, Kay Phelan, Kansas Pitts Photography, Pure 7 Studios, Shelly Swanger, Gregg Velez, Merry Waldroup, Jacqueline Ward Images, Chase Yakaboski, Allison Yii

SALES, MARKETING AND EVENTS DIRECTOR OF SALES AND MARKETING McKenzie Burleigh DIRECTOR OF NEW BUSINESS Daniel Parisi AD SERVICES COORDINATOR Tracy Mulligan, Lisa Sostre SALES EXECUTIVES Bess Grasswick, Darla Harrison, Tanya Heath, Lori Magee, Rhonda Lynn Murray, Linda Powell, Paula Sconiers, Alice Watts SALES AND MARKETING ASSISTANT Christie Green EVENTS AND SPECIAL PROJECTS COORDINATOR Leigha Inman

OPERATIONS CORPORATE CLIENT LIASON Sara Goldfarb STAFF ACCOUNTANT Josh Faulds ACCOUNTING ASSISTANT Tabby Hamilton ADMINISTRATIVE AND HUMAN RESOURCE LIAISON Caryn Nelson RECEPTIONIST Lisa Snell

DIGITAL SERVICES DIGITAL SERVICES MANAGER Carlin Trammel DIGITAL SERVICES COORDINATORS Jennifer Ireland, Rebecca Padgett DIGITAL SERVICES PRODUCER Chelsea Moore EMERALD COAST MAGAZINE emeraldcoastmagazine.com facebook.com/emeraldcoast twitter.com/emeraldcoastmag instagram.com/emeraldcoastmag pinterest.com/emeraldcoastmag youtube.com/user/emeraldcoastmag ROWLAND PUBLISHING rowlandpublishing.com

SUBSCRIPTIONS ONE YEAR (6 ISSUES) IS $30 Call (850) 878-0554 or go online to emeraldcoastmagazine.com.

SINGLE COPIES ARE $3.95 Purchase at Barnes and Noble in Destin and Books-A-Million in Destin, at Sun Plaza in Mary Esther and on E. 23rd St. in Panama City.

EDITORIAL OFFICE 1932 Miccosukee Road, Tallahassee, FL, 32308 CUSTOMER SERVICE & SUBMISSIONS EC Magazine and Rowland Publishing, Inc. are not responsible for unsolicited manuscripts, photography or artwork. Editorial contributions are welcomed and encouraged but will not be returned. EC Magazine reserves the right to publish any letters to the editor.

Copyright June 2015 Emerald Coast Magazine Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is prohibited.

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from the publisher I was recently sitting at a meeting with a group of people, many of whom I didn’t personally know, who represented a cross section of our community. When it was brought to their attention that I worked with Tallahassee Magazine, one of the individuals said in a caustic tone, “Oh, you have that elitist magazine for rich people. You guys do nothing for the community.”

With regard to the comment about Tallahassee Magazine being elitist, I can only assume the individual does not read it — or any city magazine — and spoke out of ignorance.

I chose to bite my tongue, and I didn’t engage with him because I knew it would not be productive. But I felt a surge of emotion in response to his comments, knowing full well that at Rowland Publishing we are very involved in the community, in Tallahassee and along the Emerald Coast.

It was quite disappointing to hear his uninformed comments about community involvement. But it also made me realize that we do not do a very good job of promoting our stewardship efforts in the communities we serve. That is partly by design, because I never felt the need to capitalize on our “giving back.” And, frankly, we’re way too busy publishing over 20 magazine titles in Northwest Florida during the year.

But, based on these comments, I think it is time to provide you with an overview of what RPI and its staff do to make this region a better place for everyone to live.

Here are a few hard facts that cover just the past three years.

■ More than $350,000 was distributed to charities in the Tallahassee and Emerald Coast area. (For 2014, that includes $75,000 distributed to various charities in Tallahassee. More than $50,000 was distributed in the Emerald Coast region, where most of the dollars went to the Emerald Coast Junior League’s children’s programs. These funds come from our annual Best of the Emerald Coast event, which draws more than 2,500 attendees each year.)

■ Our magazines offer more than $1.5 million of print and digital media sponsorships and calendar listings to support nonprofit organizations in the Tallahassee area and Emerald Coast region throughout the year.

I probably would not have shared all the above if that gentleman had not made the comment he did. Why? Because I feel that it is part of our corporate mission — and an obligation for all individuals, regardless of their wealth — to give back, whether it be time, money or whatever resource is available to give. From now on, I’ll strive to provide you with an annual report card on what we do to avoid getting sideswiped by a similar snarky remark.

On another note, in early January the FSU student newspaper celebrated its 100th anniversary.

That is certainly a tremendous milestone, especially when considering the difficult time the newspaper industry experiencing. This newspaper, and other college newspapers, has been a real training platform for a wide variety of students before they enter the real world.

While our Tallahassee-based daily newspaper reported on the milestone, it only told part of the story, partly because the story was focused on the successful and public careers of two of its own longtime reporters.

So, that being said, I would like to personally acknowledge the many individuals who work behind the curtain to make a newspaper run — people whose hard work was mostly ignored in that daily newspaper’s story. I’m talking about the graphic artist, the administrative staff who keep everyone on track and accountable and the advertising sales representatives who are on the front lines every day, rain or shine, carrying the message of why the newspaper deserves the investment of advertising dollars. Not only do the sales reps go out and find the advertisers, they often have to compel advertisers to pay their bills so that the newspaper can continue to operate and the reps themselves can make a living by earning their commissions. It is a tough job.

So, let us never forget the people behind the curtain. After all, it’s those ad dollars that helped make it possible for FSU’s student publication to reach its 100th birthday. And those ad dollars at every publication help provide the platform for the editorial board and journalists to have their say, opening the pages that the writers need to record our history and express their personal opinions.

SCOTT HOLSTEIN

Giving Back is Just What We Do

on the cover

The heat of the Sunshine State allows us to harvest watermelon to make this fresh, frozen fruit recipe not only in the typical peak season but also from October through December. Blend watermelon, lime juice and sugar; freeze, and taste the joy of summer all year long.

+

Your 2015 Best of The Emerald Coast Reader Ballot is on Page 112

THE EMER ALD COAST MAGA ZINE

How to Get Into the Rental Property Game Navarre: Nature’s Last Playground

Beat the Heat & Chill Out This Summer Rustic and Artsy Farmhouse Chic Learn to Sail, Surf and ... Snuba?

— BRIAN ROWLAND BROWLAND@ROWLANDPUBLISHING.COM 12 June–July 2015

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM

175+ Ways to Stay Cool REFRESHING WATERMELON GRANITA

page 127

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editor’s note Summertime Fun is All Here, Including the Farmhouse-Chic Apron Sink!

— ZANDRA WOLFGRAM EC-EDITOR@ROWLANDPUBLISHING.COM

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GO LOCAL ON 30A We love shopping local, and we love promoting our beautiful destination.

And with Gulf Place, we love that we can do both. The cheery store is an experience in itself. You can sit at the 30A store’s bar, look out at the Gulf, enjoy delicious food by Sunrise Coffee Company, drink fresh 30A Coffee or a cold draft 30A Beach Blonde beer and, of course, browse a large selection of 30A-branded gear. If we know Mike Ragsdale, it soon will be a go-to hot spot for special events, live music and certain shenanigans. So go local and go to it!

ALLISON YII

It’s summer, and that means it’s time for the highly anticipated ballot issue for the 2015 Best of the Emerald Coast awards. We revisit the list each year, adding and changing categories, so be sure to check it out and cast your votes.

We’ve got that in this issue and so much more about the best place to live, work and play in the Sunshine State, all with a fun summer twist.

To start, we assure you in our A Taste For … column that soaking up Vitamin D is a good thing!

School may be out, but we are always up for learning something new. Thanks to Diane Fraser at the newly expanded Emerald Coast Science Center, we got to test out the theory of all things fun in the museum’s new Fort Walton Beach location and bring that story to you.

What says summer more than Shakespeare in the park? Grand Boulevard is transforming its Grand Park into a stage thanks to Emerald Coast Theatre Company, and for the first time that we know of Shakespeare will be performed right here in the tradition of the Greeks, free of charge and out of doors!

Digital Graffiti is not new; it marks its eighth year this summer, but every year this amazing EC Best of winner is even more exciting than the last. Get all of the details for the June 4–6 festival in our Calendar listing, and come say hi to the EC team on Saturday night. We will be proudly sponsoring the welcome lounge near the entrance. Find out for yourself why this is 30A’s must-not-miss event of the summer season.

Summer on the Emerald Coast is not as refreshing until you add a little water. In this issue, we explore a number of ways to soak in plenty of fun in the sun, from clear canoes and the snuba craze to surfing lessons and the tradition of sailing.

Speaking of traditions, Gulfarium Adventure Marine Park turns 60 this year. To honor this milestone, we give you a chance to take a sneak peek at a new photo essay book about the attraction’s amazing history co-authored by Emerald Coaster Krista Stouffer.

We are not all play here on the Emerald Coast, but as one of Florida’s most successful coastal tourist destinations, it just seems that way. Our feature story on the growth of the vacation rental industry from the perspective of local owners who have invested in it is one we hope is helpful for those of you who may be considering taking the plunge.

“The Truman Show” may have debuted 17 years ago, but the memories of this indelible experience of locals who joined in the making of the film serve as a reminder to all of us of just how special our part of Northwest Florida really is. Take a walk down Memory Lane with Amy Coble in The Last Word and learn some juicy behind-thescenes tidbits from her Seaside silver-screen experience.

And did I mention a big, juicy story on watermelon? Yep, filled with sweet and savory recipes from area restaurants, no less.

Oh, and for good measure, when you read Habitat, you’ll find we even threw in a “farmhouse chic” apron sink.

Enjoy!

editor’s picks

JOIN THE ART DRIVE The drive is on to support the arts in Okaloosa County. Funds received through the Florida “arts” license plate program are used in part for grants to art organizations, schools and individual artists in Okaloosa County. A free one-year membership to the Okaloosa Arts Alliance comes with each “art” car tag. For more information, visit okaloosaarts.org.

FARM FRESH Twin Oaks Farm is a 94-acre, certified-organic farm located in Holmes County. It hand-raises chickens and ducks with organic feed for egg production. It also makes up batches of organic chicken and turkey broth; offers a tasty line of all-natural preserves prepared with blueberries, peaches, figs, mandarin oranges, mangos and organic sugar; and prepares nicely packaged gourmet salts seasoned with fresh herbs. You can buy at the farm by appointment, and now you can also shop and dine in a quaint cottage/ café operated by Renee Savary out of the Shops of Grayton off of County Road 283 in Grayton Beach.

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EmeraldCoastMagazine.com #LoveEC Extra Content Online Only

EC Top Salon Recap Eleven stunning models strutted their stuff and showed off their makeovers at the 2015 EC Top Salon on Friday, April 10. This fierce and fabulous competition included food, drinks, live music, auctions and a runway show. At the end of the night one salon earned the prestigious title of EC Top Salon for 2015. View our recap of the night and find out which salon won at: bit.ly/1CPyJBf

SIGN UP FOR MORE INFO For an email you’ll be happy to see in your inbox, sign up for the EC Magazine e-newsletter.

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latest real estate happenings and listings on the Emerald Coast. Learn about recently sold homes, or find the new home you’ve been searching for in the Just Listed section.

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PEOPL E + ST Y LE + H Y P E

Snapshot

Klearly the Way to Have Fun in the Sun

It’s perfectly clear that Silvia Madriaga and her 11-year-old son and junior associate, Marcelo, know how to fully appreciate the coastal lifestyle. The adventurous Miramar Beach realtor is also the exclusive distributor for transparent canoes in the U.S., Mexico and the Caribbean that are available for purchase with free delivery to customers located between Pensacola and Panama City.

“There’s nothing else like it. It’s like floating on water or sitting in a fish tank,” Madriaga explains. “You can see absolutely everything around you.”

The two-person canoes — or Kanoos — are totally clear watercraft made of a lightweight polycarbonate material and feature two comfy, formed seats.

“Really, Klear Kanoos are for any person of any age or any skill level,” Madriaga says.

“They are super-easy to operate and are clearly fun for everyone.”

Klear Kanoos are sold online at klearkanoo.com for $2,350 and come with two clear-tipped paddles. Or you can test “the waters” by renting one at the Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa. Madriaga believes her beach toy is something no local should be without.

“I think every beach house on the Emerald Coast needs one!” she exclaims.

Well, clearly. — Zandra Wolfgram

Photo by Pure 7 Studios

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM June–July 2015

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well-worded

Making a Splash

T

he Gulfarium Adventure Marine Park has been a part of Fort Walton Beach since it opened in 1955 under the name The Living Sea, but few people know much about the origins of Northwest Florida’s first major attraction. Even Krista Stouffer, the park’s marketing and communications coordinator, was a little foggy on some of the details when she started.

“I got bits and pieces from photos, but I wanted to learn more,” she said.

A perfect educational opportunity came when Chiodo, a marine mammal trainer-turned-writer, called Stouffer and asked for assistance in researching and writing a photo essay-style book about the history of the Gulfarium, “Images of America: Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park” (Arcadia Publishing).

“When he called me,” Stouffer said, “I thought it was such a good excuse to talk to former employees. I learned so much, and a lot of the staff reading the book now say, ‘Oh, I didn’t know that!’”

For example, many people who have been to shows at the Gulfarium have no idea that it was once the location of a famous “Porpoise College,” where marine scientists trained

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dolphins who would go on to perform at aquariums across the nation, or that it was the first institution to successfully raise a rescued baby dolphin with formula it developed itself.

Much of what Chiodo needed help with was research: matching photos and artifacts with names and dates. The result is a 128-page softcover book featuring more than 200 vintage images.

“We had a lot of material that wasn’t really explained,” Chiodo said of the early stages of assembling the material for the book. “We took photos out in the field with us and matched them up to newspaper articles and archives and memories from people we talked to. As opposed to going out looking for stories, we were trying to attach artifacts to stories.”

Former employees of the Gulfarium were invaluable in putting the pieces together.

“Training wasn’t a job Ron Bradford had planned on his whole life,” Chiodo shared. “What was most inspiring about him was he left the Gulfarium for military service, then went back to the Gulfarium and worked again because he loved working with the animals so much.”

Stouffer and Chiodo were just as fascinated by the human

PHOTOS COURTESY OF ARCADIA PUBLISHING

Gulfarium Fans and Longtime Locals Will Flip for Krista Stouffer and Russel Chiodo’s Historical Book BY SHELBY BOUCK

From his perch on his first show, trainer Ron Bradford recalls seeing a “gray torpedo” shoot straight for him. Remaining professional, Bradford held still for the fish retrieval, only to get popped in the face by Belinda. Despite a bloody face and bruised ego, he finished the show and later perfected the timing of the mouth feed by adding a slight head tilt. (Opposite) The original street sign for Florida’s oldest marine park, pictured in 1960, was a bold statement along an otherwise undeveloped stretch of land.​

Soul singer Geoff McBride at La Crema Tapas & Chocolate, one of his favorite places in Rosemary Beach to relax and enjoy a bite.

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM June–July 2015

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well-worded

PHOTOS COURTESY OF ARCADIA PUBLISHING

Love your Style stories involved in the history of the Gulfarium as they On Dec. 8, 1964, were by the animal ones. For dolphin transport expert Marjorie example, park visionary John Siebenaler and her Siebenaler’s wife, Marjorie, daughter, Karen, accompanied four was terrified of water and fish, Atlantic bottlenose having almost drowned as a dolphins on a journey young girl. However, when one from the Gulfarium to a new 80-acre of the divers became unable to aquatic facility in participate in the Living Sea Cape Coral, Florida.

Exhibit, Marjorie put on the suit herself and went on with the show. She eventually became one of the world’s premier marine-mammal trainers and experts.

“I just wish I had had the opportunity to meet her,” Stouffer says of Marjorie Siebenaler, one of the first female trainers. “The male employees who worked with her were so in awe of her training abilities — in that time, I think it was a little humbling for them to learn from a woman. She’s incredibly inspiring as the first female pioneer in the field, and now the field is so dominated by women that it’s hard to imagine when it wasn’t.”

While the book is definitely meant to be entertaining, Stouffer and Chiodo hope that readers get a little more out of it than just a good time.

“I hope that people can appreciate the role that the Gulfarium has played within the community of Fort Walton Beach and the Emerald Coast in general, but in the international marine-mammal training industry as well,” Stouffer says. “There were a lot of firsts that happened there.”

Of what drove him to create the book, Chiodo simply says, “Definitely part of it was wanting to honor the folks we talked to for the book … all the work they’d put into the Gulfarium and into the whole animal-care profession. Today’s animal field is very sophisticated; years and years of research contributed to the level of care we can give to animals, especially the ones who need rehab work. It’s really cool to honor that sort of infant age of the whole industry.” ec

“Images of America: Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park” is $21.99 and available for purchase at the Gulfarium gift shop, local retailers, online bookstores and at arcadiapublishing.com.

850.837.5565

Located across from Destin Commons & next to Publix

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM June–July 2015

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chat

Best in Glass Sommelier Myers Mcdougal Pours Over Wine Books to Keep His Wine List Fresh and Fun

BY ROSANNE DUNKELBERGER

W

hile the words “sommelier” and “geek” don’t seem to belong in the same sentence, Myers McDougal admits to a fascination with wine minutiae that is positively nerd-like.

For the past seven years, McDougal, an Advanced Sommelier and the Director of Wine for Seagar’s Prime Steaks & Seafood in Destin, has been tasting and studying wine — growing regions, flavor profiles, vintages, even the chemical compounds that can make a wine smell like bananas or green peppers.

“I was geeking out going through a book that has the breakdown for all the different chemicals. And I thought, ‘Should I learn this?’” he says.

McDougal is now actively seeking the Court of Master Sommeliers’ ultimate distinction — Master Sommelier. He failed the invitationonly exam on his first try, but he had a lot of company — only 10 percent pass the test.

“In my exit, they said I was close, but I need to work on France a little bit more and on my test-taking skills,” he says.

After graduating from Tulane University, McDougal worked at French Quarter restaurants in New Orleans, including Arnaud’s, where he waited on owner Archie Casbarian.

“He would drink some wonderful wines, and my appreciation kind of started there,” McDougal recalls. “He’d offer me tastes of wines like a 1986 Château Beychevelle, ’89 Beychevelles and older Latours.”

But he got serious about wine after moving to San Diego, working in restaurants whose wine lists earned them top-tier honors from Wine Spectator magazine and falling in with “a really

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Myers McDougal, an Advanced Sommelier and the Director of Wine for Seagar’s Prime Steaks & Seafood in Destin

Myers McDougal’s Top Picks from Seagar’s Wine Vault

» NV Pierre Gimonnet, Blanc de Blancs, 1er Cru, Cuis, Champagne, France » 2012 Domaine Didier Dagueneau, Pur Sang, PouillyFumé, Sauvignon Blanc, Loire, France » 2005 Muga, Prado Enea, Gran Reserva, Tempranillo, Rioja, Spain » 2011 Quinta do Crasto, Touriga Nacional, Douro, Portugal » 2012 Tor, Beckstoffer To Kalon, Cabernet Sauvignon, Oakville, Napa, California

good group of people” who decided to study and climb the sommelier ranks together.

In his position on the award-winning team at Seagar’s, McDougal is responsible for curating the collection of more than 600 wine labels that has earned the restaurant Wine Spectator’s Best of Award of Excellence for 10 consecutive years.

He’s also on hand during dinner service to answer questions and make suggestions — whether it’s coaching a novice on how to taste the oak in a Cabernet Sauvignon or suggest the perfect bottle for the most wine-savvy oenophile.

McDougal says his job is made easier by the iPad wine list available at Seagar’s.

“It’s great,” he says. “It is so functional, and it helps me give the guest so much more information in a quick little snapshot. They can read about it and ask me questions. Or, if they’re looking for something specific, then they can ask me.”

One of the best tools on the tablet for finding a palate-pleasing wine, he says, is narrowing down the list to wines in the 90-point club.

His job, says McDougal, is to find wines that are “delicious and fun and unique.”

“When you go to that restaurant and you have a bottle of wine that you’ve never heard of that’s hard to get … that’s what you remember for 10 years.” ec

Photo by Scott Holstein

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personality

Shrimp Tales Why Gulf Coast Shrimp Dominate Our Waters and Our Menus BY ASHLEY KAHN SALLEY

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Frank Patti carries on the family business started by his father, Capt. Joe Patti (inset), by importing seafood from across the globe.

While Joe Patti’s Seafood Company has retired its commercial fleet because of the high costs to operate, the Captain Joe still stands watch over the harbor.

JOE PATTI’S SEAFOOD COMPANY

MATT BURKE

A

quick search of the Internet reveals that recipes for shrimp are nearly as abundant as the crustacean itself.

But this was not always the case.

Frank Patti runs Pensacola-based Joe Patti’s Seafood Company, the establishment that made a name and a living for his family dating back to the 1930s. His parents, both of Italian fishing stock, devoted their lives to the industry before anyone wanted shrimp for anything other than bait.

Their relationship with shrimp developed quite naturally. When Frank’s mama became pregnant, she told his daddy he needed to find work that would keep him close to home. So he gave up his monthlong fishing trips and bought a small boat he called The Babe, after his newborn son.

Frank’s daddy, Joe, didn’t know a thing about shrimp, so he turned to his fatherin-law to learn the (quite literal) ropes.

They built a little shotgun house, where mama sold fish, shrimp, bread and milk off the back porch.

“Daddy caught the shrimp, and I would go with him. The boat was only 30 feet long, with a little cabin and a gasoline engine — clutch and all — it wasn’t a marine engine. It was ‘make do,’ ” Patti recalls.

“All the shrimpers had something like that. Small boats, all hand rigged. And he caught so many doggone shrimp he would fill up the boat. From that point on, he never ceased.”

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SAVE THE DATES

personality

Friday, October 16 Grand Southern Tasting 6pm–9pm Hilton Pensacola Beach Gulf Front

MATT BURKE

Savor an ocean of signature dishes and fine wines featuring the area’s top chefs and special guests.

Sunday, October 25 Celebrity Chef John Besh!

Meet and Greet & Booksigning 1pm–2:30pm SoGourmet Featuring Besh Big Easy, his first soft-cover, super-casual cookbook due out this fall.

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FROM BAIT TO PLATE But there was no money in sellJoe Patti’s has ing shrimp for bait. So Joe came been a staple on the Pensacola Bay up with an idea that he would waterfront since head the big shrimp and freeze the 1930s. the tails. He took them down the road to Mobile, Alabama, where a new process was catching on, yielding Individually Quick Frozen (IQF) shrimp. Now, Joe Patti had shrimp year-round, when no one else did.

He believed in shrimp, and World War II proved him right. In those days, shrimp was unknown except in New York. A Savannah-based Italian fellow by the name of Cicerone introduced it to the government, and the rest is history.

“The war came along and the military needed fuel.

They wanted his shrimp boats to patrol the east coast, and in turn they would buy their diesel fuel from him,” Patti explains. “He agreed on the condition that the government would buy his shrimp and introduce it to the servicemen.

That’s how Americans started eating shrimp.”

Cicerone’s mama lived in Pensacola, and that’s how Joe Patti’s Seafood became the Gulf Coast source for shrimp. It was a small community that would grow in time, as snapper fishing was curtailed due to fishing regulations and shrimp became the mainstay of the Gulf of Mexico.

IS FRESH REALLY FRESH? At that time, shrimp were headed and placed in ice bins.

They could stay out for only 15 days, and it was a job to keep them that long. Joe Patti had the first freezer boat to catch shrimp and freeze them on board in the IQF style.

Using IQF, shrimp are caught, headed, washed and placed in sacks to be put in the tank, where they are frozen solid within seven minutes. You’d have to cook them onboard the vessel for them to be any fresher.

The Patti family began building modern shrimp boats and had 16 super trawlers at one time. “Then Daddy

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told me I had to stay in the shop instead of shrimping,” he recalls. “I said it wasn’t big enough to grow, and he said, ‘You make it like you want it.’ ” So Frank transformed Joe Patti’s from the tinand-driftwood shack on the bay to the powerhouse it is today. Of course, nothing ever stays the same. As fuel prices rose, oil spills ran boats out of the Northern Gulf and restaurants turned to imported product, the big seafood markets had to change with the times.

MATT BURKE

personality

TODAY’S CATCH Patti’s fleet of 16 boats is now retired, but the Captain Joe stands watch over the harbor just outside the family business. Company vessels are too costly to operate; today, it’s a family man’s job.

It would take 30,000 gallons, or upwards of $100,000, for Frank Patti to fill the “Captain Joe” with fuel and oil. After that, 40 percent of the profit goes to the crew. “You just can’t make it, you can’t catch enough shrimp,” Patti says.

With new industry standards, Patti now imports shrimp from all over the country and as far away as Argentina and the Antarctic.

Still, he believes Gulf shrimp are the best.

“I just love our shrimp,” Patti beams. “I was born into shrimp.”

Florida’s Executive Chef and Culinary

At Joe Patti’s market, customers wait in line to select fresh seafood from across the country — and as far away as the Antarctic and Argentina.

But owner Frank Patti says Gulf shrimp are still the best in the world.

Ambassador Justin Patrick Timineri also touts the “Fresh From Florida” resource and sympathizes with industry leaders during these changing times.

“Frank Patti has been in this business a long time. Very few — likely no — seafood companies can be compared,” Timineri says. “He is an intelligent and quite colorful man, one-of-a-kind. Fuel, labor and the cost of keeping boats afloat are common issues we hear about everywhere.”

THE EVOLUTION OF THE SHRIMP COCKTAIL Once upon a time, the only way you’d find shrimp on a menu was the ubiquitous Shrimp Cocktail. Today, shrimp can be found on almost any menu in any cooking style — from Cajun to Mexican, Asian to Italian and beyond. (Just think of Bubba in the film, “Forrest Gump”: “You can fry ’em, sauté ’em, stick ’em in a stew … ”) “Shrimp cocktail is a classic menu item that anyone not completely familiar with Florida seafood can feel comfortable with ordering,” Timineri says.

“Florida Gulf shrimp are one of the most common seafood species available. Their sweet flavor combined with their modest price and limitless versatility make them a welcome addition for any menu.”

Not only are they versatile, they’re sustainable. Here, a short science lesson: According to Timineri, there are five species of food shrimp harvested from Florida’s waters: brown, pink, royal red, white and rock shrimp.

Each of these species is prevalent at different depths, salinity levels and locations around the state.

Shrimp can be found in near-shore waters and estuaries and use the estuaries as nursery areas.

They migrate in and out of Florida’s estuaries, mainly during growing and spawning periods.

The agencies regulating the harvesting of shrimp in Florida’s Gulf and South Atlantic waters have established fishery management plans to protect the resource.

As to why so many restaurants insist on purchasing imported shrimp when we possess the natural resource in our backyard, Timineri and others “in the know” remain puzzled.

“The benefits to eating local are myriad. We do not know the rationale for purchasing imported shrimp beyond the financial one,” he says. “These imported farm-raised shrimp are typically lower in price and can be processed and packaged in a more uniform size than wild-caught shrimp. We always recommend purchasing shrimp fresh from Florida, as there is no comparison when it comes to taste.”

In fact, our executive chef’s favorite thing about living and cooking in Florida is the amount of year-round access to local and regionally grown or caught fresh fruit, vegetables and seafood.

“I know that when I buy anything harvested or caught in Florida, it is safe, fresh, flavorful and naturally healthy,” Timineri says. ec EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM June–July 2015

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scene

Just some of the interesting buzz we’ve seen and heard around the Emerald Coast …

PHOTOS BY PURE 7 STUDIOS (HAHN) AND COURTESY OF DESTIN CHARITY WINE AUCTION FOUNDATION

NEW NEWS …

▪ The Pensione at Rosemary Beach is under new ownership. Summer Kitchen Café’s James and Miriam Dillon, also owners of Summer Kitchen Café, will operate the business under a new name, The Rosemary Beach Inn. ▪ The Market Shops in Miramar Beach has added two new restaurants in the newly renovated shopping center. Brian and Monique Murphy have opened DIG (Dig In Gulf), a café-style eatery serving breakfast, lunch and an early dinner. The restaurant will also offer cooking lessons and a healthy selection of gourmet “graband-go” meals. In addition, Jennifer Gizzi has opened a second Formula Fresh Coffee & Juicery featuring coffees, coldpressed juices, superfood smoothies, unique teas and specialty lemonades.

(The first is in Redfish Village in Santa Rosa Beach.) Orders can be made online, with delivery services available within a specified geographic region.

▪ Sacred Heart Health System has plans for a major expansion of The Children’s Hospital at Sacred Heart, including a fivestory building that will connect to part of the front side of the current Children’s Hospital. The expansion is estimated to cost up to $125 million. Sacred Heart will look to supporters and donors to raise $55 million toward the project.

NEW FACES IN NEW PLACES …

▪ Dana Hahn has been promoted to vice president of Real Estate for the Howard Group. Prior to her Hahn eight years at Howard Group as a leasing manager, Hahn handled commercial and industrial land sales at The St. Joe Company.

KUDOS AND CONGRATULATIONS …

▪ Simona Faroni, president of G.S. Gelato & Desserts, was recently named

Destin Charity Wine Auction Foundation (DCWAF) announces that the 2014 Charity Wine Auction was among the nation’s top four highestgrossing charity auctions in the country as ranked by Wine Spectator magazine. Founded in 2005, DCWAF is celebrating its 10th anniversary this year and has donated more than $10 million to support a variety of children’s charities in Northwest Florida over the last decade. In 2014, DCWAF donated $2,035,000 to 12 area charities serving children in need. This marked a 57 percent increase from the 2013 results of $1.3 million.

Destin Charity Wine Auction is now among the most prestigious wine auctions in the country. For 2014, the top three ranking wine auctions are the Sonoma Harvest Wine Auction at number three, Naples Winter Wine Festival at two and the Auction Napa Valley, which is consistently the top charity wine auction in the country.

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM June–July 2015

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scene

Local Craft Brewery Proudly located in Santa Rosa Beach, Florida

Sacred Heart Hospital on the Emerald Coast has been named one of the nation’s 100 Top Hospitals by Truven Health Analytics for the fifth time since opening in 2003.

as one of the Influential Women in the Food Industry by The Griffin Report and was listed as one of the Top Female Business Owners by Enterprising Women.

CAUSE FOR CELEBRATION …

▪ In this photo, L.A. Woodall of Horizons (and board chair of the Greater Fort Walton Beach Chamber of Commerce) is shown receiving gifts of support from the Rev. Cecil Williams of the Greater Fort Walton Beach Christian Ministerial Association and the Rev. Charles Sansom Woodall, Williams, Sansom of Gulf Coast Community and Mongell Church, with Mitch Mongell, chair of the Community Solutions board of directors, watching. The Gulf Coast Community Church donation was generated by offerings made at the Inaugural Blessing of the Emerald Coast.

▪ The first annual Fleets & Eats fundraiser had charter boats and Sunshine Watersports transporting guests to local restaurants along the Destin Harbor for a progressive dinner at Boshamps Oyster House, Dewey Destin’s, Harbor Docks and the Donut Hole. The event raised $23,000 for the Emerald Coast Autism Center. ec

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▪ Two community organizations recently made the very first donations in support of One Hopeful Place, a project of Community Solutions to provide emergency meals, transitional housing and support services to the area’s homeless population.

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happenings EVENTS + CULTURE + CAUSES

spotlight

Shakespeare in the (Grand) Park

PHOTO BY CHASE YAKABOSKI/EMERALD COAST THEATRE COMPANY

Nothing says summer like a young romance. Add in a star-filled sky and some fairy dust magic and you have the “stuff that dreams are made on.” Grand Boulevard at Sandestin has partnered with Emerald Coast Theatre Company to stage the area’s first-ever Shakespeare-in-the-park production. This special family-friendly adaptation of William Shakespeare’s most popular romantic-comedy romp, “A Midsummer Night’s Dream,” will be staged free of charge in the Town Center’s Grand Park on Thursday evenings at 8 p.m. through July 30. Styled after Italy’s commedia dell’arte, four actors portray the lovers, the royals, the fairies and the mechanicals (skilled laborers) during a special 45-minute adaptation of the classic tale that shows audiences exactly why “the course of true love never did run smooth.” Anything can happen in the magic of the wood ruled by a fairy king and queen … including audience members being pulled into the playful plot. This inaugural production is part of Grand Boulevard’s Coastal Culture series. For more information, visit grandboulevard.com. — Zandra Wolfgram

Local performers Cana Sylvester and Austin Davis “clown” around in a scene from Shakespeare’s “dreamy” comedy.

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM June–July 2015

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culture

Chase Culhane touches “bottled lightning” at the Emerald Coast Science Center.

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Emerald Coast Science Center Director Diane Frasier meets a new friend during a recent Snake Day, just one of many new hands-on events to attract curious young minds.

GETTING HANDS-ON DISCOVER THE SCIENCE OF FUN AT EMERALD COAST SCIENCE CENTER

o

BY LIESEL SCHMIDT // PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARI DARR~WELCH

n the face of things, the Emerald Coast Science Center in Fort Walton Beach might seem a bit elementary. But like the countless young minds who have visited the center over the past 25 years, there is almost limitless potential for learning and inspiration to be found here. It was an appreciation for the capacity of children to grasp concepts of physics, chemistry, biology and more that led the Junior League of the Emerald Coast to establish the science center in 1979. Today’s technological revolution was just getting started, but everyone knew great things were on the horizon.

“The League thought it would really benefit the community to have a hands-on science museum,” says museum director Diane Fraser, who started her job last year.

The public agreed. For the next 25 years, science lovers of all ages came to the museum to experience projects, exhibits and displays that enhanced their understanding of how stuff works.

Not that even the simplest exhibit is really all that simple, if you take the time to closely examine it. Numerous processes are involved in recreating the blink of an eye, the twitch of a finger, the flash of a thought. Regardless of whether those processes are visible to the naked eye, they

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culture

happen — at a certain rate, in a certain order — to produce a certain result. And it’s precisely that lesson that museum personnel strive to teach every visitor they meet.

Fortunately for the museum, the future is as bright as its brightly colored doors, now that it’s found a new home at the former Creative Senior Citizens’ Center on Memorial Parkway. After a two-year search, museum officials Starla Reno of secured their current home, a place Reno’s Reptiles with potential for growth that introduces 6-year-old Jonah exceeded their dreams.

Campos to a “Our old location was so juvenile alligator. much smaller, and there was no possibility to expand,” Fraser says.

“Here, there’s such a huge footprint, with so much outdoor space that we didn’t have before,” she continues, scanning property that will, in the near future, become a hotbed of activity and learning.

The building required a thorough makeover, but thankfully that need was met by an overwhelming outpouring of volunteer support, most of which came from military service members who spent days painting and refinishing and repairing whatever needed attention.

“It was amazing,” Fraser says, both humbled and awed as she looks around the lobby that has already, in the months since opening in November, welcomed a surprising number of school groups and individual visitors seeking to touch and see what makes science so incredible.

In her mind’s eye, Fraser envisions various stations — a small amphitheater encircled by log seating; a raised demonstration deck; a turtle pond and habitat; a community garden where vegetables and herbs will be grown as part of a partnership with Healthy Okaloosa; bubble tables that are “so popular with the kids.”

“Shuffleboard Science” will take place in the shuffleboard area that the science center inherited when it purchased the property.

“It was a senior center,” Fraser points out with a laugh and a shrug. Rather than ripping up the old concrete courts, the directors decided to incorporate them, giving kids the opportunity to play the game and learn about physics, velocity, friction and the transfer of force.

“When you play a game, you don’t think about the actual science involved,” Fraser says, sounding every bit like the chemistry major and forensic scientist that she was before she agreed to take on this new challenge.

While she felt unprepared to fill a role that required lots of administration and community outreach, Fraser seems to be thriving just as well as the newly relocated, rebranded museum.

“It’s great, the way the kids and the community have responded to the changes. We’ve become a destination for schools; we’re getting field trip groups from schools that have never come here before,” she says proudly.

And there’s a reason for that. In addition to the older exhibits that were brought in when the museum relocated, new ones have have been added amid plans to expand even further. At points along the halls between exhibits, visitors tease their brains with deceptively simple games and mental exercises.

In the rooms themselves, true treasure troves await.

Painstakingly conceived and constructed robotics displays allow users to manipulate mechanical hands and arms, aquatic and extraterrestrial terrain exploration vehicles, and even an interactive health robot.

“These were designed with a very open view of everything, so you can really see what’s happening and how the controls are maneuvering it — what’s doing what,” Fraser says with passion in her voice. “What’s so unique about this is that all of the pieces are handmade from start to finish; they’re not built on an assembly line anywhere. Somebody had that whole entire process inside his head. Beginning to end, it’s creativity from a single person, a single family.”

And she means that literally. Each of the robotics displays was created and built by John Siegel, whose family-owned company in North Dakota has spent years on projects like these. The dedicated engineer completed each piece on-site, sitting with quiet focus in a large room strewn with tiny parts and pieces and wires.

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The expansion of the Science Center leaves plenty of space for many new interactive exhibits that tease the brain and exercise the mind.

Another room conEMERALD COAST tains a wall of tanks SCIENCE CENTER housing turtles, frogs 31 SW Memorial Parkway, and snakes. A narrow Fort Walton Beach bookcase is filled to (850) 664-1261 capacity with seashells ecscience.org brought in from a nowHOURS: shuttered museum Open Tuesday–Saturday, in Tallahassee, while 9 a.m.–4 p.m., Sunday the opposite wall is noon–4 p.m. stuffed with the work of taxidermists and a ADMISSION: collection of skeletons.

Adult $8; seniors $7; There are electricity children $6 (children 2 and and wind-tunnel exhibunder are free) its, air physics and light Annual memberships for displays, color creation individuals, grandparents, stations where light families and educators refractions create rainfrom $55. bows. The list goes on.

This is science with a heart strengthened by the community around it and evidenced by every stroke of paint on the walls, every polished tile on the floors. The lessons it imparts inspire young minds and older ones to marvel at just how far we’ve come and what the future still has in store. ec

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thecalendar june + july

+art

Digital Graffiti at Alys Beach June 4-6 Art, architecture and new technology come together at the eighth annual Digital Graffiti at Alys Beach, the world’s first projection art festival. Innovative artists use the latest technologies to project their original artwork onto the stunning alabaster architecture, walls and bridges throughout the town of Alys Beach. Inspiration abounds as digital artists from around the world come together to compete for $10,000 in cash prizes at this dynamic three-day art fete. Festivalgoers are treated to artist meet-and-greets, live interactive art demonstrations, DJ and VJ music performances, arty animated surprises, and plenty of food and beverage booths at the must-not-miss event of the summer season.

Proceeds benefit The Alys Foundation. EC Magazine is proud to return as a sponsor of DG 2015. Join us in the EC Lounge for lively entertainment, coastal-inspired cocktails and festive fun Saturday night beginning at 6 p.m.

For a full schedule and ticket information, visit digitalgraffiti.com.

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Compiled by Zandra Wolfgram For more events in the EC, visit emeraldcoastmagazine.com.

Mondays

Concert in the Park Gather with family and friends every Monday at Marina Park in beautiful WaterColor for a summer concert series. FREE. Marina Park in WaterColor, 34 Goldenrod Circle, Santa Rosa Beach. 6–8 p.m (850) 534-5975, stjoeclub.com/events Sky Surfing Enjoy three exciting demo shows by flyboarder extraordinaire Ben Merrell over the lagoon in The Village of Baytowne Wharf. FREE. Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort, 9300 Emerald Coast Parkway West, Miramar Beach.

7 p.m. (850) 267-8117, baytownewharf.com

Tuesdays

PHOTO BY PURE 7 STUDIOS (DIGITAL GRAFFITI) AND COURTESY OF FWB CHAMBER OF COMMERCE (BILLY BOWLEGS)

Fat Tuesday Parade Throw me something, mister! Let the good times roll all summer long as HarborWalk Village transforms into the Big Easy. Enjoy dazzling floats, beads and lots of swag at this festive parade. Stay for live entertainment on the main stage, along with a stunning, vibrant firedancing show. Laissez les bons temps rouler!

FREE. HarborWalk Village, 66 Harbor Blvd., Destin. 6 p.m. emeraldgrande.com Boomin’ Tuesdays Enjoy lawn games and inflatables at the Events Plaza in The Village of Baytowne Wharf. Later, watch the night sky light with fireworks over the lagoon at 9:15 p.m. FREE. Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort, 9300 Emerald Coast Parkway West, Miramar Beach. 7 p.m. (850) 267-8117, baytownewharf.com

Tuesdays and Thursdays

30A Learning Academy’s Adventure Camps Children ages 2–13 are invited to participate in hands-on field experiences to learn about Northwest Florida’s diverse ecosystems and explore the unique environmental wonders of our 30A and Emerald Coast area. $45. Adventure camp locations will include Topsail Hill Preserve State Park, Conservation Park, Ponce de Leon Springs, Indian Temple Mound and more. 9:30 a.m.–1:30 p.m. To register parents can email Rebecca Matherne at 30ALearningAcademy@ gmail.com or call (850) 291-7197.

Wednesdays

Wednesday Night Concert Series Enjoy this outdoor music concert series featuring live performers, bands and musicians. FREE. Events Plaza, The Village of Baytowne Wharf at Sandestin, 9300 Emerald Coast Parkway West, Miramar Beach. 7–9 p.m.

(850) 267-8117, baytownewharf.com

Wednesdays and Fridays

Kids/Parents Night Out Parents can drop their kids at 30A Learning

+festival

60th Annual Billy Bowlegs Pirate Festival June 4–6 and 8 Ahoy, mateys! Don your pirate garb and venture to the Landing in Fort Walton Beach by land or by sea to enjoy a treasure trove of pirate fun. The event sets sail on Thursday, June 4, with a “pub crawl” in downtown Fort Walton Beach. The festival continues on Friday at 3 p.m. with family-friendly activities and the famous pirate skirmish at 7 p.m., followed by a performance by the band Heritage at 8 p.m. and a festive fireworks display at 9 p.m. Come back on Saturday beginning at 10 a.m. for more family fun and to see the city fight back against the pirates’ landing at 4 p.m. The festival closes on Monday with a pirate parade rolling down Eglin Parkway at 7 p.m.

The event, sponsored by the Fort Walton Beach Chamber of Commerce, is free and open to the public. For more information, call (850) 244-8191 or visit billybowlegspiratefestival.com.

Academy and enjoy a night out while their children enjoy a night of games, crafts, movies and more in a safe, private school environment. $40 per child. 30A Learning Academy. 7 Town Center Loop, Santa Rosa Beach. 5:30–9:30 p.m. (850) 291-7197

Wednesdays and Saturdays

Grand Boulevard Farmers’ Market This outdoor market features dozens of vendors offering locally sourced produce, eggs, milk, cream, butter, grass-fed beef, chicken, lamb, pork, local honey, pickled vegetables and gourmet jams, as well as flowers, herbs, soaps and lotions. FREE. Grand Park in Grand Boulevard, 600 Grand Blvd., Miramar Beach. 9 a.m.–1 p.m.

(850) 837-3099, grandboulevard.com

Thursdays

20th Annual Concerts in the Village Series Local and regional touring artists perform everything from Motown to rhythm & blues, jazz, modern country, classic and modern rock, reggae and tribute bands during this familyfriendly outdoor concert series. David Seering will perform the final concert July 2. Bring a lawn chair, picnic and wine or purchase dinner prepared by a featured restaurant. $10 for adults, FREE for Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation members and children under 12. Proceeds

benefit the foundation’s cultural and educational mission. Dugas Pavilion and Village Green, Mattie Kelly Cultural Arts Village, 4323 Commons Drive West, Destin. 7 p.m. (850) 650-2226, mattiekellyartsfoundation.org Magical Thursdays Make an appearance at this fun magic show performed by Captain Davy in The Village of Baytowne Wharf. FREE. Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort, 9300 Emerald Coast Parkway West, Miramar Beach. 7 p.m. (850) 267-8117, baytownewharf.com Red, White and Blue Celebration Take part in a weekly celebration that honors the efforts of people who go above and beyond to better their community. Enjoy live entertainment by Villages Belles, a fire spinner, free kid’s crafts and face painting and a vintage World War II aircraft flyover. The evening is topped off by a spectacular fireworks display over the Destin Harbor. FREE. HarborWalk Village, 66 Harbor Blvd., Destin. 7 p.m. emeraldgrande.com Theatre Thursdays presented by Emerald Coast Theatre Company Enjoy a beautiful summer evening in Grand Park as families are entertained by a fun, EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM June–July 2015

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thecalendar comedic adaption of Shakespeare’s famous play “A Midsummer Night’s Dream.” Styled after Italy’s commedia dell’arte, four actors from the Emerald Coast Theatre Company portray the lovers, the royals, the fairies and the mechanicals (skilled laborers) during this 45-minute performance of the classic tale.

Pre-show children’s activities by Abrakadoodle.

FREE. Grand Park, 600 Grand Blvd., Miramar Beach. 7 p.m. activities, 8 p.m. performance.

(850) 837-3099, grandboulevard.com

Fridays

Make Cool Art at Blue Giraffe The Moore Family Folk Art Team will help you make your own up-cycled art out of vintage soda cans, bottle caps and weathered woods.

Walk-ins are encouraged to attend this event, which promises fun for the whole family. $20 per piece. The Blue Giraffe, WaterColor Town Center, 1777 E. County Highway 30A, Santa Rosa Beach. 10 a.m.–6 p.m. (850) 231-5112, bluegiraffe30A.com Downtown Art Walk Every third Friday of the month, stroll Fort Walton Beach’s historic district and visit merchants from participating shops and restaurants while enjoying art demonstrations, live music, complimentary refreshments and special discounts. FREE. Downtown Fort Walton Beach. 5:30–8:30 p.m. For more information, email downtownfwbartwalk@gmail.com.

Sunday Cinema Come enjoy a movie under the stars on the Events Plaza lawn in The Village of Baytowne Wharf.

FREE. Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort, 9300 Emerald Coast Parkway West, Miramar Beach.

8 p.m. (850) 267-8117, baytownewharf.com

Daily through July 5

(excluding May 10 and June 21)

Graduation Dinner Honor your graduate with a complimentary Ruth’s Classics three-course meal for the graduate with the purchase of four entrees. Prices vary. 15000 Emerald Coast Parkway, Destin. 5–9 p.m. (850) 837-7884, ruthschrisdestin.com

Through June 13

‘Between the Layers’ Art Exhibit The Pensacola Museum of Art, in partnership with First City Arts Center, presents a dual exhibition that explores the imagery of artist Rachael Pongetti and her creation of the Pensacola Graffiti Bridge Project, a 2011

photographic chronicle of the constantly evolving local landmark, located at the 17th Avenue train trestle in Pensacola. $12 for adults; $10 for members, children 17 and under, military and museum members. 407 S. Jefferson St., Pensacola. Tues–Sat, 10 a.m.–5 p.m., and Sun 1–5 p.m. (850) 432-6247, pensacolamuseum.org

Through Aug. 9

‘The Lure of the Ocean: Original Works by Guy Harvey’ Exhibition features original paintings, watercolors, mixed media and pen-and-ink drawings by celebrated artist Guy Harvey, the world’s finest marine wildlife artist. $12 for adults; $10 for members, children 17 and under, military and museum members. 407 S. Jefferson St., Pensacola. Tues–Sat, 10 a.m.–5 p.m., and Sun 1–5 p.m. (850) 432-6247, pensacolamuseum.org

June 1–30

Arts and Design Society Ongoing Window Display The works of Thalia Newton, working in crash

Live Music Fridays Live music and waterfront views at the Marina Bar and Grill every Friday. FREE. Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort, 9300 Emerald Coast Parkway West, Miramar Beach. 6–9 p.m. (850) 267-7778, sandestin.com/events

Saturdays

Seaside Farmers Market Get your pick of fresh produce, baked goods, dairy products, native plants and other unique offerings during Seaside’s market on Saturday mornings. Held behind Raw & Juicy.

(850) 231-6107, seasidefl.com

Sundays

The Market at Gulf Place An outdoor farmer’s market featuring locally grown fresh fruit, vegetables, handmade crafts by local artisans and more. FREE. Gulf Place on Scenic Highway 30A and County Road 393 in Santa Rosa Beach. 3–7 p.m., with live music 6–9 p.m. in the amphitheater. (850) 200-6805, facebook.com/marketatgulfplace 48 June–July 2015

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KAY PHELAN

Rock the Docks Come out Saturday night for free music concerts on the HarborWalk Village stage. Coming up: Hotel Oscar (June 6), TBD (June 13), Gypsy Riot (June 20), Flash Food (June 27), TBD (July 11), The Wide Open (July 18), Continuum (July 25).

FREE. HarborWalk Village, 66 Harbor Blvd., Destin. 7 p.m. emeraldgrande.com

+food

Smoke on the Coast

July 3 The 5th Annual Smoke on the Coast BBQ and Fireworks Festival kicks off the

holiday weekend with a bang. More than 20 Destin-area restaurants and barbecue aficionados will light up their grills and vie for the coveted People’s Choice Award.

The cost is just $1 per sample. In addition to great food, festivalgoers can also enjoy live entertainment from local favorites such as Heritage, street performers and kid’s activities. The patriotic event begins at 5 p.m. and is capped off with one of the best Independence Day firework extravaganzas on the Emerald Coast.

Proceeds benefit Building Homes for Heroes. For more information, follow the event on Facebook or visit DestinCommons.com.

30a Store 30a Vet • Artists at Gulf Place Celestine’s Special Occasions Coastal Paradise • Dipity Du Dah Kids Furry Fanatics • Islanders Coastal Outfitter Jade Nails • Jewel Toffier • Kindal’s Hair Studio La Playa • Level 2 Design • Ocean Elements Day Spa Perfect Pig • Pilates by the Sea Pizza by the Sea • Preacher's Kitchen ResortQuest by Wyndham Vacation Rentals Santa Rosa Pharmacy • Soho Boutiques Sunrise Coffee Co. • Trustmark Bank YOLO Board + Bike

FARMER’S MARKET EVERY SUNDAY

12-4pm

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GOOD FOOD. GOOD MUSIC. GOOD TIMES DOCKSIDE!

Great BBQ

tin @VillageDoorDes

Savory Seafood

Village Door Dockside Restau

rant

The Village Door

Voted the Best Place to Dance!

In the Village of Baytowne Wharf at Sandestin | thevillagedoor.com | (850) 502-4590 Visit our website & Facebook for current specials, events and seasonal hours 50 June–July 2015

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM

easily and do not compete with each other in terms of brightness.

These colors encourage a sense of both, happiness and peace. The pink and blue are referential to the name, while the other two colors are gender and age neutral. This palate works well with a lot of white and therefore, creates the allusion of more space which can be beneficial in design for print, web, and store/display design.

thecalendar glass mosaics, will be on display during June in the studio windows of the Art Center fronting First Street. Drive by and stop to see these works. FREE. Art Center, 17 First St. SE, Fort Walton Beach. (850) 244-1271, artsdesignsociety.org

June 2–Aug. 8

Gulf Place Art Workshops for Kids The Artists at Gulf Place will host an array of art workshops Tuesday through Saturday in the Artist Colony. Workshops include Metal Flowers with Billie Gaffrey (Tuesday and Friday 10 a.m.–noon), Tie-die with Kris Ogdon (Wednesday and Saturday 3–6 p.m.), Sealife Creatures with David Hansel (Thursday 1–3 p.m.) and Pet Shells with Maxine Orange (Thursday 2–4 p.m.). $5-$30. Gulf Pace on 30A. (850) 291-7197

June 2–26

‘Wild! The Calendar Show’ This show, by members of the Arts and Design Society, will reflect the theme “Dazzling Hues.” Works from this show will be displayed in the ADSO Calendar for 2016. FREE. Art Center, 17 First St. SE, Fort Walton Beach. Opening reception June 5, 6–8 p.m. Gallery hours: Tues–Fri, noon–4 p.m., Sat 1–4 p.m.

(850) 244-1271, artsdesignsociety.org

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avenue

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4467 Commons Dr. W., Destin (in front of Fresh Market) · Open daily 10-6 850.424.5707 · @PinkNBlueAvenue · pinknblueavenue.net

June 11

Ruth’s Chris Golden Anniversary Wine Dinner celebrating Ruth’s Chris 50th anniversary. FREE entry, menu prices vary. 15000 Emerald Coast Parkway, Destin.

6:30 p.m. (850) 837-7884, ruthschrisdestin.com

June 15–25 and July 13–23

Kids on Campus Northwest Florida State College presents Kids on Campus, a unique opportunity for summer enrichment and fun learning in a college environment. Students choose from a variety of classes and choose morning, afternoon or all day classes.

Extended care is available in the mornings and/or afternoons.

Open to students entering 3rd–8th grades. Go online for prices and registration. 100 College Blvd., Niceville. (850) 729-6086, nwfsc.edu/kidsoncampus

June 17–21

13th Annual Emerald Coast Blue Marlin Classic The competing anglers are not the only fishing enthusiasts who will hook a good time at this sport fishing tournament featuring live entertainment and activities for the kids all weekend long. FREE. Baytowne Marina and The Village of Baytowne Wharf at Sandestin, 9300 Emerald Coast Parkway West, Miramar Beach. Daily weigh-ins at 4 p.m. Visit fishecbc.com for schedule. (850) 267-6364

June 20

8th Annual National Flip Flop Day Celebration Tropical Smoothie Café celebrates the anniversary of its most popular event — National Flip Flop Day! HarborWalk Village Tropical Smoothie will hand out free Jetty Punch smoothies to guests wearing flip-flops; in addition, families can enjoy games and activities for all ages to raise money for Camp Sunshine.

FREE. HarborWalk Village, 66 Harbor Blvd., Destin. All day.

Nationalflipflopday.com

June 21

Father’s Day Lunch Cruise Treat Dad to a chef-prepared, three-course meal including fresh Gulf seafood while cruising the local waters and enjoying the coastal breezes aboard the 125-foot Solaris yacht. $58 for

GUIDE SERVICE Fishing the Florida Panhandle for over 30 years Specializing in Light Tackle | Inshore/Flats/Nearshore Fishing Day and Night Trips Available | Kids Welcome! inshorefishingdestin.com 646 Harbor Blvd., Destin, FL 32541 Day: (850) 837-2262 | Night: (850) 376-6302

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EC MAGAZINE

works for us “They are still providing great content and putting out our message to the community.”

Dr. Dennis Lichorwic, Center for Cosmetic & Family Dentistry EC Magazine advertiser since 2000

For 15 years The Center for Cosmetic & Family Dentistry has been providing the community with smiles through their dentistry and their advertising with EC Magazine. “When we began advertising, EC Magazine was the only lifestyle magazine in the area. They are still providing great content and putting out our message to the community,” said Dr. Dennis Lichorwic.

Their advertisements have attracted clients with beautiful smiles and those looking for a beautiful smile.

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EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM (850) 878-0554

thecalendar adults, $35 for children. Baytowne Marina, Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort, 9300 Emerald Coast Parkway, Miramar Beach.

Boarding at 12:15 p.m., cruise from 1 to 3 p.m. (850) 650-2519, sunquestcruises.com

June 21 and July 19

ArtWalk on the Harbor The third Sunday of each month, HarborWalk Village transforms into a mini-art district. Come meet dozens of seasoned and emerging artists showcasing their vibrant, engaging and creative artwork, ranging from traditional to contemporary art, jewelry, paintings and more. FREE. HarborWalk Village, 66 Harbor Blvd., Destin. 11 a.m.–4 p.m. emeraldgrande.com

June 19–Aug. 22

Annual Members’ Juried Exhibition The Pensacola Museum of Art celebrates its 61st annual member art exhibit. The top honor is a solo show in the museum’s Gallery 5 during the 2016 calendar year. $12 for adults; $10 for members, children 17 and under, military and museum members.

407 S. Jefferson St, Pensacola. Tues–Sat, 10 a.m.–5 p.m., Sun 1–5 p.m. Aug. 10–22 open only Tues–Sat. (850) 432-6247, pensacolamuseum.org

June 12

Walk Her Way Annual walk to raise awareness about domestic violence. Led by a New Orleans-style jazz band, men, women and children are invited to put on high heels and stroll around Rosemary Beach Town Center. $30 adults, $10 children under 12. Rosemary Beach Town Center. 6 p.m. (850) 231-7382, walkherway.com

June 22–26 and July 13–17

Arts and Design Society Kids’ Fine Art Camp The Arts and Design Society again offers the opportunity for children to participate in creating visual arts. Classes begin on Monday and feature a different medium each day, including clay artistry, drawing, painting and printmaking. Each week ends with an art show and reception for the families, during the second half of each of Friday’s class sessions. $70 per child ($60 for children of ADSO members). Pre-registration is required

by Friday, June 19, for June sessions. Art Center, 17 First St. SE, Fort Walton Beach. 9:30–11:30 a.m. (ages 6–8); 1–3 p.m. (ages 9–13). (850) 244-1271, artsdesignsociety.org

We’re here to make you smile!

June 25

Arts and Design Society Luncheon The Arts and Design Society presents local artist Charlotte Arnold, award-winning portrait artist, as the speaker for its June luncheon. Advanced reservations $12; $15 after June 22.

Art Center, 17 First St. SE, Fort Walton Beach. 11:30 a.m. For reservations, call (850) 376-3901 or email adsorsvp@gmail.com.

July 1

Movie Night at WaterColor Bring your blankets and chairs for a sunset movie at Marina Park.

FREE. Marina Park in WaterColor, 34 Goldenrod Circle, Santa Rosa Beach. Sunset. (850) 534-5975, stjoeclub.com/events

July 1–31

Arts and Design Society Ongoing Window Display Hanna Joensuu will display her “Modern Batiks,” a collection inspired by Matisse and Warhol, in the studio windows of the Art Center fronting First Street. Drive by and stop to see these works. FREE. Art Center, 17 First St. SE, Fort Walton Beach.

(850) 244-1271, artsdesignsociety.org

Miramar Beach Dental & Orthodontics

Jason E. Baker, DDS with Christina Higgins-Duplechain DDS

(850) 650-2070 With a new location to serve all your dental needs: 77 S. Shore Drive, Miramar Beach MiramarBeachDental.com EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM June–July 2015

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850 BUSINESS MAGAZINE’S 2015

PINNACLE AWARDS HONORING THE OUTSTANDING WOMEN BUSINESS LEADERS OF NORTHWEST FLORIDA

PINNACLE AWARD PRESENTED BY

HONORING THE OUTSTANDING WOMEN BUSINESS LEADERS OF NORTHWEST FLORI

PINNACLE AWARDS

Ten women have been selected to receive the 2015 Pinnacle Award — women of character and integrity, our leaders, mentors and community servants. These honorees will be profiled in the 2015 October/ November issue of 850 Magazine. We will host an intimate luncheon in mid-August on 30A with an award ceremony recognizing the women and hear key subjects and insights from their success and experiences.

HONORING THE OUTSTANDING WOMEN BUSINESS LEADERS OF NORTHWEST FLORIDA AND COMING THIS FALL

2015: Women of Interest

PINNACLE AWARD

Panama City September 23, 2015 Representative Gwen Graham 2nd District of Florida, U.S. House of Representatives

Okaloosa County October 26, 2015 Elmira Mangum, Ph.D. President, Florida A&M University

HONORING THE OUTSTANDING WOMEN BUSINESS LEADERS OF NORTHWEST FLORI SPONSORED BY

AT T O R N E YS AT L AW

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thecalendar July 3

Easy on 30A Concert Come celebrate Independence Day at the Fourth Annual Easy on 30A music concert under the stars in beautiful WaterColor. FREE. Marina Park in WaterColor, 34 Goldenrod Circle, Santa Rosa Beach. 6–10 p.m. (850) 534-5975, stjoeclub.com/events

July 4

Fourth of July Extravaganza on the Harbor Let freedom ring, rock and roll with The Victory Belles as they revive the World War II classics in their throwback tailored dresses, coiffed curls, red lipstick and vintage charm. The patriotic salute will continue with the Modern El Dorado’s and fireworks lighting up the sky. FREE. HarborWalk Village, 66 Harbor Blvd., Destin. 5:30–10 p.m. emeraldgrande.com

2015

K IDS ON CA MPUS Kids On Campus is a unique opportunity for summer enrichment and fun learning in a college environment.

For Kids Entering 3 rd thru 8 th Grade

Monday – Thursday, Niceville Campus Northwest Florida State College

Sports ~ Art Academics ~ Dance ~ Music

Session 1: June 15 - 25 Session 2: July 13 - 23

July 4

Fourth of July Fireworks and Dinner Cruise Celebrate our nation’s birthday in true Emerald Coast style with a decadent meal on a 125-foot yacht as you cruise the local waters. Dance the night away to live music and end the evening with a bang as fireworks illuminate the sky above you. $85 for adults, $45 for children, $25 per infant. Price includes a threecourse meal, fireworks, live entertainment and a three-hour cruise. Baytowne Marina, Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort, 9300 Emerald Coast Parkway, Miramar Beach. Boarding at 6 p.m., cruise from 7 to 10 p.m. (850) 650-2519, sunquestcruises.com

Register: Online May 12 In Person May 14 all NWFSC locations Registration Ends: Session 1 – June 10 Session 2 – July 8 www.nwfsc.edu/KidsOnCampus (850) 729-6086 • KOC@nwfsc.edu 100 College Blvd. E., Niceville, FL 32578

July 4

EA/EO

Red, White and Baytowne Enjoy a day of fun in the sun, an evening that lights up the sky and family-friendly activities throughout The Village of Baytowne Wharf, including crafts, face painting, balloon sculpting and live music from Soul Track Mind, followed by fireworks at 9:15 p.m.

FREE. Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort, 9300 Emerald Coast Parkway West, Miramar Beach. 6–10 p.m. (850) 267-8117, baytownewharf.com

July 4

Fourth of July Fireworks at WaterColor Gather with family and friends to celebrate the Fourth of July at WaterColor Beach. FREE. Marina Park in WaterColor, 34 Goldenrod Circle, Santa Rosa Beach. 9 p.m. (850) 534-5975, stjoeclub.com/events

July 8–Aug. 1

‘Wee Works’ Show The Arts and Design Society presents an exhibit featuring works done on 10-inch by 10-inch canvases. Art Center, 17 First St. SE, Fort Walton Beach. Opening reception July 11, 6–8 p.m. Gallery hours: Tues–Fri, noon–4 p.m., Sat 1–4 p.m. (850) 244-1271, artsdesignsociety.org

Your Leader in Luxury Transportation

July 22

Arts and Design Society Luncheon The Arts and Design Society presents local photographer Jackie Youngblood as the speaker at its July luncheon. $12; $15 after July 20. Art Center, 17 First St. SE, Fort Walton Beach.

11:30 a.m. For reservations, call (850) 376-3901 or email adsorsvp@gmail.com. ec

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Located in the Village of Baytowne Wharf

Poppy’s Seafood Factory is the perfect combination of fine dining in a casual setting.

A Pizzeria with a Sports Bar Twist.

Come in for a Slice!

Seafood fresh from the gulf | Live Maine lobsters

Sandestin’s only sports bar | 15 big-screen TVs

Great selection of Caribbean favorites | Private rooms

ESPN | Hand-tossed specialty pizzas | Full bar

Groups up to 200+ | Indoor and outdoor dining

Delivery within the Sandestin Resort

www.poppysseafoodfactory.com (850) 351-1996

www.robertositalianpizzeria.com

Join us at Hammerhead’s Bar & Grille — Located at the end of Baytowne Wharf, right on the bay.

Fresh local seafood with a Caribbean flare | Outdoor dining Live entertainment daily | Fried calamari tossed in Habanero oil Seafood buckets | Accommodations for large groups and private events

www.hammerheadbarandgrille.com (850) 351-1997

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(850) 351-1998

socialstudies Keller Williams Realty Awards Banquet February 25, 2015 The Keller Williams Realty Awards Banquet brought together the best realtors on the Emerald Coast for a night of recognition. This year the luncheon banquet was held at the Embassy Suites in Miramar Beach.

The 2014 agents were recognized for outstanding performance (from $1 million to $24 million-plus in closed volume sales). Also honored were upcoming agents who will no doubt make an impact in the market for 2015.

Photos by Tracy Mulligan Barbara Tschanen, Robin Cloar and Tammie Dickerson

DonnaMack and VictoriaLomburg Vanya Comerford, Lauren Nehls and Donna Nichols

Elaine Deroche and Mark Gaddini with Curtis Lofton (of the New Orleans Saints)

Bernadette Darnell, Jeanine Chambers, Skip and Victoria Moore

Whiskey Bravo’s Party with a Purpose February 28, 2015 Whiskey Bravo restaurant owners Skip and Victoria Moore hosted a great party with a great purpose — to raise funds for Angel Flight Soars, a charity providing free air transportation to medical patients in need. Generous guests arrived looking chic in winter white fashions as they enjoyed culinary flights of seafood, sweets and savory treats. One lucky guest got an autographed jersey from New Orleans Saints linebacker Curtis Lofton, who was also in attendance. This year’s party raised more than $125,000 for Angel Flight.

Naomi and Chris Alvarado

Photos by Merry Waldroup EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM June–July 2015

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Dennis Lichorwic, DMD Past President Florida Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry

Stephanie Baya, DMD

Julia Skinner, DMD

DestinDentist.com

58 June–July 2015

PCBDentist.com

850.654.8665

850.235.2299

4635 Gulfstarr Drive, Destin, Florida 32541

309 Richard Jackson Blvd, Panama City Beach, Florida 32407

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM

socialstudies

Vince Brummit and Carol Lichtenberger

Northwest Florida Ballet Presents ‘Swan Lake’

Kayla Johnson, Rachael Klein, Kelsey Ladner and Annabelle Lowerison

March 1, 2015 One hundred and twenty years after its revival by Petipa, Northwest Florida Ballet Mistress and former Ballet Russe de Monte Carlo dancer Dorothy Daniels Lister collaborated with artistic director Todd Eric Allen to stage the Northwest Florida Ballet’s enchanting season finale performance.

Madalynn, Alan and AJ Riddle

Photos by Zandra Wolfgram

Nathanael Fisher and Mary Kay Samouce

Lorraine and Eric Christen

ECTC Presents ‘Art’ March 6, 2015 Emerald Coast Theatre Company opened “Art,” a comedy by French playwright Yasmina Reza, to a sold out audience in a nontraditional theater space in the Market Shops at Sandestin. Theater patrons were treated to an art gallery showcase featuring original paintings, mixed media, glass art and more by 12 award-winning local visual artists before the show.

Samantha, Stacey and Mike Brady

Photos by Chase Yakaboski EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM June–July 2015

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socialstudies

George and Kathy Wehrhahn and Wolfy and Kathy Ramone

Heath and Amanda Owens, Jordin and Brice Early

Emerald Coast Cattle Barons’ Ball 2015 March 14, 2015 Hi Ho! Cowboys and cowgirls in their finest western duds headed to the “ACS Ranch” at Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort to give cancer the boot and lasso some funds and awareness for the Emerald Coast chapter of the American Cancer Society. Guests played into the Lone Ranger and Tonto theme while enjoying fancy vittles, live music by the El Dorados, two-stepping, gaming as well as bidding on dozens of packages and prizes in both a silent and live auction.

Photos by Chase Yakaboski

December ’63

Tracy Renbarger, Susan Kilos and Trisha Vickers

Leah and Lewis Bukart

MKAF Marks 20th with December ’63

Merle Black, Karen Campbell, Walt Wire, Sussane Black, Frank Boross, Carroll Martin, Nacey Miller and Anne Brown

April 11, 2015 An evening of timeless classics were performed by the five-member band named for Frankie Valli’s 1975 hit “December 1963 (Oh, What a Night).” Ocean Reef Vacation Rentals & Real Estate presented the night at the Mattie Kelly Cultural Arts Village where music lovers of all ages enjoyed catered dinners and picnic suppers under the stars. This concert was the first installment of the 20th anniversary celebration of the Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation. Proceeds from the benefit concert will support MKAF’s education and cultural programs.

Photos by Chase Yakaboski EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM June–July 2015

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2014 Best Hair Salon Best Customer Service Best Massage Therapist

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Faira Toyama and Jamey Mattern

Todd Buckner, Todd Dearison, Sandy and Mark Giddens

South Walton Beaches Wine & Food Festival April 23–26, 2015 A dazzling roster of more than a dozen celebrity winemakers, brew masters, distillers, chefs and entertainers, converged in Grand Boulevard at Sandestin to wine, dine, educate and entertain guests as part of the four-day celebration of more than 800 domestic and imported wines.

Jill Handley and Susan Azar

Maria Murray and Heather Braziel

Rob Babcock, Todd Vucovich, Mike Thompson, Richard and Demetria McNeese, Lamar Connerly, and Chan Cox

Photos by Zandra Wolfgram

Justin Gaffrey and Shelby Schuler

Destin Charity Wine Auction April 25, 2015 Generous guests lifted their paddles to raise a record-breaking $2.3 million during a live auction of luxury lots to benefit 12 local children’s charities at the the 10th anniversary event of the Destin Charity Wine Auction Foundation, which recently was ranked as the No. 4 wine auction in the nation by Wine Spectator magazine. DCWAF has raised $10 million for charity in just 10 years.

Russ and Melissa Johnson

Jeanne Dailey and Scott Russell

Photos by Zandra Wolfgram EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM June–July 2015

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2015 PRESENTING SPONSOR: THE CENTER FOR COSMETIC & FAMILY DENTISTRY

1,3,4 Atmosphere The ballroom of Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa was overflowing with energy during EC Magazine’s 2015 Top Salon event. The area’s top 11 salons, nominated by the community, showcased their talent and passion for style as each model’s masterpiece makeover was revealed during a fierce runway show.

From physical transformations, including extreme hair styles, smile brightening, high-end fashion and body modulation, to internal evolution, including confidence, poise and fearlessness, the results were nothing short of spectacular. A big thank you to the sponsors who made the night possible, including presenting sponsor The Center for Cosmetic & Family Dentistry (provided complimentary teeth whitening and consultation to each model); Marsha Doll Models (provided world-class runway coaching to each model); Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa (Top Salon preevent and event venue); Blueprint Health Studio (provided fitness training to each model); Emerald Coast Functional Family Medicine (provided an alternative medicine health consultation to each model) and new Sandestin restaurant The Beach House (after party venue, plus a generous bar tab for winning salon Avantgarde).

2 Live Auctions Marsha Doll Models

stormed the runway in clothing from Pink Narcissus, providing entertainment during one of the evening’s live auctions.

5 Honoring Ashley McKenzie

The evening was dedicated to the memory of Ashley McKenzie. Fiancé Michael Ruberti and daughter McKenzie accepted an award honoring her impact on the salon industry.

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FOR A FULL EVENT RECAP, INCLUDING VIDEO AND PHOTOGRAPHY, VISIT HTTP://GOO.GL/T8I6Z3 PHOTOS: MATT BURKE AND CHASE YAKABOSKI

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EC Magazine’s McKenzie Burleigh and Leigha Inman, Masters of Ceremony

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EMCEES & JUDGES

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Judge 5 and presenting sponsor Dr. Dennis Lichorwic of The Center for Cosmetic & Family Dentistry; judge Carrie McNeil; judge and performer Ron Adams; judge and sponsor Marsha Doll; judge and EC Magazine Editor Zandra Wolfgram; judge Ron Faircloth EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM June–July 2015

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RUNNER UP

The Kat House Hair Studio Model: Audrey Coates

2015

Pure & Co.uture

2ND RUNNER UP

Model: Carrie Cassidy

MODEL PHOTOS BEFORE AND AFTER

PRESENTING SPONSOR: THE CENTER FOR COSMETIC & FAMILY DENTISTRY

EC Top Salon Winner 2015: Dayna Iscano for Avantgarde Salon

BY REBECCA PADGETT Looking at Dayna Iscano you wouldn’t guess that she is accustomed to spending more time picking up after children than looking after herself. Dayna is the show-stopping model whose bright blue eyes, platinum pixie cut and fit figure helped Avantgarde Salon win top honors at the 2015 EC Top Salon competition.

Dayna has been a loyal client of Avantgarde since age 14, but in 2007 she quit coloring her hair and making regular visits to the salon upon moving to Honduras to do missionary work.

While in Honduras she met a man, fell in love and married. The couple continues to lend financial support to his family in Honduras.

Dayna and her husband are active in their church where she is the children and families pastor. She also has for many years taken care of a niece whose mother developed an addiction to painkillers. Because helping others, especially children, is so close to her heart, Dayna chose the Emerald Coast Children’s Advocacy Center as her charity when she was approached to participate in EC Top Salon.

“I love my job and I love taking care of others, but that often means putting myself on the back burner,” Dayna said. “I was stuck in a rut with my life, and EC Top Salon provided me with an opportunity to overcome it.”

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On Dec. 22, Dayna began going to BluePrint Health Studios two to three times a week, steadily progressing to six visits a week. When it came time to strut down the Top Salon runway, she had lost 20 pounds. Her pearly whites are compliments of The Center for Cosmetic & Family Dentistry. Her hair had been a drab shade of blond that was sculpted by the hands of children who played with it. Now it is styled, colored and highlighted.

“I am so appreciative of all the services that were provided to me. It was important to me to take advantage of everything that was being given to me,” Dayna said. “Top Salon helped me to get back into a routine with my health and beauty.”

Dayna was the first model of the night to set foot on the runway. She was greeted by a roaring crowd, which was stunned by the jaw-dropping transformation that had taken place in less than 24 hours. A confident and beautiful woman sauntered down the runway in a cobalt blue and black outfit leaving a lasting impression on the entire room.

“That night I felt like a million bucks,” Dayna enthused. “As I walked down the runway, I could see my ‘before’ picture on the screens and then I saw the way I look now. I couldn’t believe it was the same girl. I was given back my beauty.”

WINNER

Avantgarde

Model: Dayna Iscano Charity: EC Children’s Advocacy Center

C’est La Vie Salon

The Cutting Room Salon & Spa

Euphoria Hair Salon

Fusion Spa Salon

La Renaissance Salon

Rolland’s Salon

Model: Felisha Floyd

Model: Katelynn Stokes

Model: Amber Moss

Model: Nikki Ballard

Model: Kate Theiss

Model: Wren Kendall

PRESENTING SPONSOR

Sanabella Spa and Salon Serenity by the sea Spa Model: Amber Hunter

PRESENTED BY

Model: Rachel Rehm

SPONSORED BY

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Reading the Wind THE TRADITION AND PASSION OF SAILING THE EMERALD COAST

STORY AND PHOTOS BY TROY GILBERT

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Pensacola Bay is a natural home on the Gulf Coast for major regattas and has a long history of sailing that brings in crews from New Orleans, St. Petersburg and beyond.

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S

ailors read the wind on the water as you might read a great novel. Wind lines are new chapters that guide and propel them toward grand destinations, and approaching squalls are plot twists that must be surmounted to further their character arcs. Home to some of the most stunning cruising grounds on the entire Gulf Coast, Florida’s Panhandle has provided sailors with a long and continuing history that stretches back to the early 19th century as boats under sail were transitioning from one of utility and transportation to one of sport and recreation.

WHETHER YOU ARE A CRUISER OR A RACER, distance regattas on the Gulf Coast are a true adventure and a beautiful and unforgettable life experience. They also offer up the opportunity to earn those stories that are best told at your favorite beachside watering hole.

With few bluewater regattas remaining on the Gulf Coast, the annual Gulfport to Pensacola Race held in June has become one of those graduation regattas for young or up-and-coming sailors looking to build an offshore résumé and perhaps a crew slot for the Mexico Race and beyond. For cruisers, it can be a weekend-long excursion that ends with sailors enjoying the hospitality of the Pensacola Yacht Club and its legendary bushwacker cocktail.

The biennial Regata al Sol — or as it’s more commonly referred, the Mexico Race — is run by both the Pensacola and Southern yacht clubs and will next be held in May 2016. Sailing from Pensacola Bay to the rustic 6-mile-long island of Isla Mujeres just off the shores of Cancun, this 555-nautical-mile race is a true bluewater regatta and a unique experience. Racing and cruising classes sail for five days across the electric blue waters of the Gulf of Mexico, and then crews and “racer chasers” effectively take over the island with four days of events and legendary parties.

Professional solo sailor Ryan Finn earned some of his chops sailing on the waters off the Panhandle and, at 37, has spent a few years racing in the European circuits.

“Pensacola is a natural destination and host for these distance regattas with its easy access to the Gulf of Mexico and hospitality,” Finn said. “Whether finishing the race from Gulfport or disembarking for the island shores of Mexico, the Panhandle has a unique connection for all the sailors from the Gulf Coast.”

Onboard, these amateur and expert crews revel in the hours spent under sail and on the water. As the sun sets and meals are rustled from the galley below, stories and laughter are shared while the spray coming off the bow becomes saltier and the lights from the cities and towns vanish as they sail south from the Gulf Islands. These men and women are sharing an adventure, a sport that is more akin to wilderness expeditions. It creates enduring bonds and experiences, and the legacy gets passed down from generation to generation.

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Since 1949, sailors have raced 100 nautical miles annually from Gulfport, Mississippi, along the Gulf Islands to reach the infamous bushwacker cocktails served at the Pensacola Yacht Club.

Some History With roots tracing back to the Pensacola & Gulf Yacht Club, which staged regattas on the waters of the Panhandle as far back as 1888, Florida’s sailors were actively participating in inter-club regattas with the venerable Southern Yacht Club of New Orleans, including distance races along the northern Gulf of Mexico and inshore buoy racing. As the Pensacola Yacht Club formed in 1908, Sailboat preparation for the Lipton Cup race these regattas still — Pensacola, Florida consisted primarily PHOTO COURTESY OF of old schooners, but STATE ARCHIVES OF FLORIDA, newer and faster din- FLORIDA MEMORY ghy designs such as the Fish Class of boats were coming online. This constantly evolving sport laid the groundwork for an enduring sportsmanship and camaraderie between Floridians and their counterparts in New Orleans, Mobile and along the Mississippi coast that continues to this day.

Today, the Emerald Coast is flourishing, with marinas and yacht clubs from Pensacola to Fort Walton that serve as outposts on the bays and the Gulf of Mexico — beacons drawing sailors in from days spent on the water or pulling them down to the water’s edge from points inland.

Out on the piers, Olympic-class sailors easily mingle with novice adults and juniors learning this new way of life and the sport as the clink of boat rigging calls out in the wind, waiting for hoisted sails. For most sailors, the value has always been in the journey; the landfall and exploring those “undiscovered” lee coves of the Gulf Islands National Seashore and points further is simply a bonus.

After the founding of the Gulf Yachting Association (GYA) in 1901, a respected organization of 33 member clubs created to further the interaction between sailors from Houston to St. Petersburg, sailors from clubs such as Pensacola, Fort Walton Beach, St. Andrews Bay, Navy and Pensacola Beach are regular sights at regattas and cruising rendezvous. Membership in these clubs allows for reciprocal privileges throughout the GYA member clubs, as well as clubs in the large Florida Council of Yacht Clubs.

As a favorite destination and enjoying these same reciprocal privileges, the Emerald Coast is regularly stormed by sailors and crews from points west as vessels raft up at the clubs for beloved and well-attended GYA regattas such as the Gulfport to Pensacola Race, Challenge Cup and the big one — the Mexico Race.

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Learn to Sail Whether your love of boating trends to sail or power, the summer is the ideal time to begin planning to pass that trait on to the next generation as sailing-camp registrations open along the Florida coast. Strike up a conversation at any yacht club or your favorite waterfront joint and it’s likely that person will have a fondly remembered childhood tale of fishing or sailing with a parent or grandparent. And that lifetime love for the water can come about for your kids simply by instilling the sense of adventure, self-reliance and the freedom found in boating. Yacht clubs are a great avenue to do just that through their accredited junior programs.

The Panhandle has a few of the larger and more successful junior programs, with the Pensacola Yacht Club among the best. While many of these clubs do require membership for children to be enrolled, many do offer their programs to friends of members willing to sponsor, and some do have open enrollment. Swim tests are required at every club. These programs are nearly ubiquitous at the majority of yacht clubs, but it is best to research the programs and prerequisites on your local club’s website or simply call to set up a meeting with its sailing director to see its facilities and boats.

PENSACOLA YACHT CLUB (850) 433-8804, pensacolayachtclub.org FORT WALTON YACHT CLUB (850) 243-7102, fwyc.org EMERALD COAST SAILING ASSOCIATION (850) 862-7276, ecsasailing.com LANIER SAILING ACADEMY (850) 432-3199, laniersail.com

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Gulf Coast sailors originally raced from Florida's Gulf Coast to Havana, Cuba. Since the 1960s they have raced to Cancun — this might now be changing with the opening up of Cuba.

Ask any collegiate sailor under scholarship who aspires for the Olympics and he or she will tell you about skills acquired sailing small 8-foot Optimist dinghies at yacht clubs throughout the country. In fact, talk to most sailors and they’ll not hesitate to describe how they learned self-reliance out on the waters under the guidance of junior sailing programs. The Panhandle is home to several excellent accredited junior sailing programs, including Fort Walton Beach and St. Andrews Bay yacht clubs, but the program at Pensacola Yacht Club, helmed by Olympic windsurfer Bert Rice Jr., is one of the better ones in the region.

“Our programs are all about developing a love in these kids for being around the water,” Rice said. As the sailing director, Rice handles a fleet of 10 Optimists and a number of other classes of dinghies for junior sailors. “They all have to pass a swimming test. They need to already have a little bit of fish in them, and then we expose them to different boats to discover what they enjoy. Over time, we are able to see which ones enjoy racing, and we groom them and train them up for our racing program.”

Whether you are a sail or power boater, these programs start a lifetime love for the water for kids by simply instilling the sense of adventure, self-reliance and the freedom found in boating — and yacht clubs are a great avenue to do just that. Most clubs run two- to four-week-long summer camps and teach sailing instruction, seamanship, boating safety and navigation before sending the kids, many as young as 6 years old, out on protected and supervised waters in the Optimist dinghies that are used by junior programs throughout the world. As the kids learn and become more skilled in sailing the dinghy, they eventually graduate to sailing Opti regattas against other clubs and then can graduate to even larger junior regattas held throughout the United States and possibly even world championship events.

Ashley Sukalski, 32, has long been active in sailing at the Fort Walton Yacht Club and along the entire Gulf Coast through the formal inter-club association known as the Gulf Yachting Association.

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It is a liberating escape for families to set out on relaxed sails for the barrier islands and anchor in those quiet lee shores. Turning off the PlayStations, the iPads and grilling the day’s catch off the stern of a sailboat over cocktails as the kids learn to crab or simply run their feet through the sand — such experiences last a lifetime.

“The GYA is very active in racing, which is great for anyone from kids to adults, but the Florida Council of Yacht Clubs all throughout Florida is ideal for older people who tend to be more into cruising,” Sukalski said. “They both have their benefits. I’m an active racer and enjoy the camaraderie.”

Surprising is the groundbreaking leadership role of women in the sport over the years. In a time well before women had the right to vote in this country, all-female-crewed boats were openly competing against men — and not without some disconcertion from a segment of their old-school male counterparts. There are several documented examples of all-female crews and regattas on the Gulf Coast dating back to 1904, and today female skippers, crew and regattas are common.

While regattas are the most publicized events and are certainly daunting for individuals with little to no sailing experience, racing constitutes a scant 15 percent of the on-the-water activities. Cruising sailors, whether affiliated with a club or not, make up the vast majority of the sailing population. On weekends, it’s easy to spot groups of eight to 10 cruising sailboats gathering together and sailing out to the barrier islands or to destination marinas such as Lulu’s Homeport or the Wharf at Orange Beach. It is a liberating escape for families to set out on relaxed sails for the barrier islands and anchor in those quiet lee shores. Turning off the PlayStations, the iPads and grilling the day’s catch off the stern of a sailboat over cocktails as the kids learn to crab or simply run their feet through the sand — such experiences last a lifetime.

With the Gulf Islands and their legacy of pirates and Civil Warera forts within easy reach for day sailors, it’s hard not to get wrapped up in the romanticism of sailing. The ideal method to get acquainted with the lifestyle is to finally accept that invitation out on a friend of a friend’s boat, or walk the piers during the fun weekly “beer can” races at your local club and introduce yourself to skippers who may be looking for dedicated crew willing to learn. In addition to junior sailing camps, there are multiple courses available for adults, women only and even singles along the coast.

Aspects of this world may appear daunting to the uninitiated; however, with most seasoned sailors decked out in flip-flops, it should not be surprising that they are readily accepting and willing to teach people who feel the call of the water. There are families beginning their legacies on the water every day and learning what it means to have that sail full in the breeze and those island shores within their grasp. ec

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While it may not appear to be so at first glance, competitive sailing can be a true team sport and generates a lifetime of adventures.

Sailing Race Roster The northern Gulf Coast is home to some of the oldest regattas in North America, including some that have continuously been raced since 1850. Geographically, the Florida Panhandle has always been heavily involved with their counterparts in Louisiana, Alabama and Mississippi, especially with offshore or bluewater distance regattas.

While the field of these great offshore events has narrowed on the Gulf Coast over the decades, it is notable that two of the largest and most prestigious that remain are directly linked to Florida’s Emerald Coast. Always a draw for sailors, especially the large and active racing scene in New Orleans with deep ties to the beaches of the Panhandle, it is a common sight to see 50 to 60 boats rafted up at the yacht club piers and hailing from Mobile, Biloxi, Gulfport and New Orleans.

NAVY CUP REGATTA — Buoy Racing: Navy Yacht Club, June 13–14 GULFPORT TO PENSACOLA RACE — 100 nautical miles: Southern, Gulfport and Pensacola yacht clubs, June 27–28 BIG MOUTH REGATTA — Buoy Racing: Pensacola Beach Yacht Club, Aug. 22 WFORC — Buoy Racing: Pensacola Yacht Club, Oct. 16–18 REGATA AL SOL — 555 nautical miles: Southern, Isla Mujeres and Pensacola yacht clubs, May 7–12, 2016 EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM June–July 2015

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renting the

coast WITH FEW BIG HOTELS HERE, MOST VISITORS STAY IN PRIVATELY OWNED HOUSES AND CONDOS

BY REBEKAH SANDERLIN IT HAPPENS NEARLY EVERY DAY. Someone’s bare feet sink deep into the soft, impossibly white sand on one of our beaches. Their eyes get lost on those emerald green waters, stretching out to the furthest reaches of the horizon. Maybe they see dolphins jumping or the sun tucking in under a blanket of brilliant reds and yellows. They sigh, glance around, feel themselves relaxing and think, “I want a piece of this for myself.”

According to the Emerald Coast Association of Realtors, nearly 14,000 homes were sold in the region last year, proof that the dream can easily — and relatively quickly — become a reality.

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PHOTO COURTESY OF RESORTQUEST

ResortQuest by Wyndham Vacation Rentals features this cute coastal rental home, called Our Blue Bonnet. Located in Inlet Beach it features a Gulf view along with four bedrooms and a loft to sleep 12.

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The Homeowner’s Collection, which features around 40 Seaside homes and cottages, appeals to vacationing families looking to experience the many high-end amenities within Seaside and along 30A; This four-bedroom penthouse with stunning views of the Choctawhatchee Bay is located in Bahia, which is part of a complex of four mid-rise condominium buildings located within The Village of Baytowne Wharf at Sandestin.

“When you consider the condition of the market, there is not a better time to buy,” said Lino Maldonado, vice president of operations for ResortQuest by Wyndham Vacation Rentals. “Money is cheap, and prices are still low.

All indicators are that people should jump in now.”

Unlike resort areas in other parts of the United States, there are few large hotels here. The 4.5 million visitors who travel to the Emerald Coast each year tend to stay in houses and condominiums owned by private individuals and typically managed by local firms. These vacation rentals run the gamut from being just a place to stay to providing a nearly all-inclusive resort experience.

“Our story has really resonated with consumers,” said Scott Russell, a partner in Russell Vacation Rentals, which specializes in vacation condos and homes near Destin and South Walton. “Being in a vacation rental allows you to fully immerse yourself in the destination. You can unwind, relax and explore the community. When people leave here and go back to their homes, they truly feel like they’ve been on a vacation.”

SELLING THE COAST “Right now the demand is high and supply is low,” said Dana Fairchild,

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a Realtor with Beach Properties of Florida. “Gulf-front property is selling really fast. We’re on track to do better this year than we did in 2013 and 2014.”

Most Emerald Coast vacationhome owners buy here because they want to use the property themselves at least some of the time. Many choose to rent their property out to guests when they aren’t using it themselves to help their budgets, which is exactly what Emerald Coast vacation rental pioneer Jeanne Dailey, the founder and CEO of Newman-Dailey Resort Properties, recommends. She’s been managing properties in the area since 1983.

“Find a location that you love and would want to stay in as a vacationing guest,” Dailey said. “People buy homes in this area because they want the American Dream, they want to own a second home. Being on a rental program gives them a way to generate the income to afford that dream.”

With 100 miles of beautiful Emerald Coast beaches to choose from, where should someone who wants a vacation home start looking? It all depends on one’s budget and interests, Fairchild said.

Prices, she said, range from about $400,000 to nearly $12 million for a Gulf-front location. But a place that isn’t on the water can be found in the $200,000 range.

Condo owner Steve LaForge, who lives in Chickasha, Oklahoma, said he knew he wanted a place somewhere on the Emerald Coast because he loves the area and can drive here from Oklahoma or fly in. For him, buying in Panama City Beach made the most sense.

“I can step off the airplane and be in my condo in 15 minutes,” LaForge said.

LaForge uses his condo, located in a beachfront high-rise, for a few weeks each year, and his grown children use it, too. The rest of the time, he rents it out.

“I could let it sit empty the rest of the year, but I figure I might as

PHOTOS COURTESY OF HOMEOWNERS COLLECTION (FAMILY) AND SANDESTIN GOLF AND BEACH RESORT ®

well pick up the $30,000 rental income that I would be passing up by not renting it out. I could probably buy another unit just like the one I have and pay for it from the rental income,” he said.

Many owners, like LaForge, have found that owning beach property here almost, if not completely, pays for itself when the owner commits to sharing his or her home with paying guests. The process is fairly simple: A prospective owner, working with a Realtor, finds a property he or she is interested in purchasing and, as often as not, the Realtor recommends a management company. The

management company submits a projection of the rental income the potential owner can expect, allowing the buyer to decide if the home is affordable.

Amanda Ferguson, the director of the rental management program for Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort, said that her team talks at length with potential buyers to find out what they want from their property.

Their goals will determine which properties they’re shown.

“If someone just wants an investment, we steer them to areas with amenities and conference potential,” Ferguson said. “Those generate more year-round business.”

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I could let it sit empty the rest of the year, but I figure I might as well pick up the $30,000 rental income that I would be passing up by not renting it out. I could probably buy another unit just like the one I have and pay for it from the rental income.” — Condo owner Steve LaForge EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM June–July 2015

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Other owners, she said, might plan to spend the entire winter in their unit and then rent it out during the summer, in which case there are other properties they’re more likely to find appealing. Ferguson said that she’s able to provide owners with a detailed analysis of how much similar properties are earning.

It’s important for prospective vacation-home owners to know what they’re getting before making such a large investment, said Ashley Hamm, the CEO of 360 Blue, a management company that works primarily with properties along the Scenic Highway 30A corridor.

“A homeowner should look for a 7 to 10 percent gross rental income based on the purchase price, before commission or maintenance,” Hamm said. “Higher than 7 to 10 percent is incredible; lower than that and it should be a property that the owner plans to primarily use for themselves.”

Hamm said that 360 Blue charges owners 20 percent of the rental price as a commission. She explained that some companies might charge a bit less and some might charge more, depending on the amenities that are included. The amenities, particularly 80 June–July 2015

in homes along 30A, can be impressive. In some areas, guests and owners have access to golf, tennis, boating, beach clubs, child care, preferred beach parking and special discounts in stores and restaurants.

“Some places, you book a home, and a home is all you get,” said Dru Zeiset, the general manager of vacation rentals for the St. Joe Club & Resorts. “We’re trying to create more of a resort experience.”

MAKING THE LEAP Once owners have found their vacation home, they have to decide whether to sign with a management company or to manage it themselves. Websites such as VRBO, Homeaway and Airbnb make it easy for owners to advertise, find renters and book their properties.

“A lot of people, when they look at a vacation home, they toss around the idea of managing it themselves,” Hamm said. “People don’t want to lose access to their home, and they’re skeptical of the wear and tear. We can’t promise or guarantee anything, but that’s why you have a professional management company.”

Amy Gleaves has been using VRBO.com to manage her Panama City Beach townhouse for almost

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Ashley Hamm, CEO of 360 Blue (opposite page); The Villages of South Walton reminiscent of Old Charlestonstyle architecture enjoys a prime 30A location between Rosemary Beach and Seacrest Beach. It offers guests dedicated beach access, an amphitheater and use of the 12,000square-foot pool.

three years. Gleaves, who lives in Pegram, Tennessee, said her family keeps their place rented for most of the summer and occasionally uses it themselves in the fall and winter.

She said she’s had mostly good experiences, which she credits in large part to finding a reliable cleaning crew — but great housekeepers can’t help with the initial screening process. Gleaves said they have had a television stolen out of their unit by a guest and have had some minor damage, though she said most guests take great care of their place.

Being the mother of teenagers has likely helped her spot and screen out guests who might have done more damage.

“I do not rent to spring breakers, and that is clearly written on my VRBO page, but people have tried many different ways,” Gleaves said.

“A kid told me his mom was coming with them but found out she had cancer right before. When I asked what type of cancer she had, I never received a response.”

She said she received another inquiry from a young man who said he was coming into town for a church program with his nine college roommates. When Gleaves asked what church they were members of, he told her he wasn’t sure but would get back to her. He didn’t.

Yet another prospective guest sent a request for 10 adults, and after Gleaves turned her down, the same person, using the same name and email address, sent a request claiming to be a mother traveling with her husband and two children.

“Needless to say, I declined,” Gleaves said.

Screening is a major service that management companies offer to owners. Maldonado, of ResortQuest, said that his company’s call center staff is trained to note details about people who call to make a reservation.

Emerald Coast management companies all say that they screen guests a second time when the guests check in, which can take place either at the management company’s office or at the vacation home. However, properties along 30A and Destin aren’t as likely to attract the spring break crowd in the first place.

PHOTO BY KANSAS PITTS PHOTOGRAPHY (HAMM) AND COURTESY OF RESORTQUEST (WATERSCAPE)

RENTING THE COAST

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In the heart of Seaside on Tupelo Street is a sprawling twostory cottage with sweeping porches, available on the vacation rental program of the Homeowners Collection, aptly named Sweet Retreat; Up the spiral staircase is a stunning view of the town of Seaside from a private tower.

Guests will gladly pay $6,853 to live the coastal lifestyle for a week during peak season for this hideaway. (Opposite page) When they are not renting it out to vacationing visitors, Bob Cherry of Nashville and his girlfriend, Margo Godwin, enjoy time at the beach in their stylish two-bedroom, two-bath second home located on the 20th floor of the Calypso in Panama City Beach, which is conveniently located to all of the shopping, dining and entertainment options available at Pier Park.

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RENTING THE COAST

“We’re working with very nice properties, so the price point alone helps us keep out the party crowd,” Zeiset said.

Two years ago, some Seaside homeowners decided to create a third option: a hybrid of the selfmanaged and professionally managed models called Homeowners Collection. The nearly 50 owners who have joined to date paid $5,000 upfront, said Amy Wise-Coble, the general manager of Homeowners Collection. The company also charges a 20 percent management fee. Those fees allow the owners to both maintain control of their own home and have the convenience of

PHOTOS BY HOLLY GARDNER (CHERRY) AND KURT LISCHKA/MOONCREEKSTUDIOS.COM (HOMEOWNERS COLLECTION)

‘‘

they all also said that most of their renters are repeat guests.

“Because we don’t have high-rise hotels here and we do have so many vacation rentals, we’ve been able to really promote this area as being great for families,” Dailey said.

“It’s a tradition for many families throughout the Southeast to come here year after year.”

Maldonado said that ResortQuest, which manages more than 1,500 properties in the area, doesn’t use third-party websites to find bookings. However, other management companies say listing on third-party sites is essential for finding guests.

with rate information, responding to rental requests, confirming guests, collecting payments and managing housekeepers. An owner who lists with a management company won’t have to do any of these things — all of these tasks will be handled by the property manager.

Whether you self-manage or list with a property manager, the experts all say the home should be well-decorated and updated.

“Think of the kind of place you’d want to stay in as a vacationing guest and furnish your place accordingly,” Dailey said. “Guests tend to take better care of places that are furnished nicer.”

“Guests may not even realize that they’re booking with us,” Hamm said. “They’re looking on VRBO or Homeaway and get directed to one of our properties.”

Ferguson said owners who update their Sandestin units tend to recoup the money they spent rather quickly because their units rent easily and more frequently.

But as vacation-home owner Bob Cherry, who lives in Nashville, noted, an immaculately decorated unit won’t rent well if it’s not in a location where people want to go.

“When it comes to property, what you’ve always heard is true: It’s location, location, location,” Cherry said about his Panama City Beach high-rise condo. “We bought in this area because we love it. Having spent almost 40 years of vacations along the Emerald Coast, it always feels like coming home to us, each and every time we visit.” ec

We bought in this area because we love it. Having spent almost 40 years of vacations along the Emerald Coast, it always feels like coming home to us, each and every time we visit.” — Vacation-home Owner Bob Cherry a professional management company. For guests, Homeowners Collection handles the reservation process, provides concierge services and assigns a cottage host to help guests with any other needs.

“If the company makes a profit over the operating expenses, it will go back to the homeowners,” WiseCoble said. “It’s a groundbreaking concept that could be duplicated in other communities. I think we’ll see more like this in the future.”

Emerald Coast property managers contacted for this story all said they advertise their homes in the markets where most of their guests come from — which are the same markets where most of their owners live: Atlanta, Nashville, Birmingham and Dallas. However,

SEALING THE DEAL Once the decision to purchase a property has been made and a management plan is established, the process is fairly simple. An owner who plans to self-manage will need to get high-quality photographs of the interior and exterior, list the property on a website such as VRBO or Homeaway, and find housekeepers and possibly a handyman in the area. Gleaves said an owner who manages his or her own rental should expect to spend several hours each week updating the listing

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the good life FOOD + TRAVEL + HEA LTH + HOME

eudaimonia*

Surf’s Up!

Life on the Emerald Coast is all about taking full advantage of the coastal lifestyle. And that, of course, includes the beach. Gentle to moderate-size waves are perfect for first-time enthusiasts looking to rip and ride some swells to shore. There are loads of surf and sport shops with everything you need to gear up. And if you want to check surfing off of your bucket list or sign your kids up for a fun summertime camp, check out the Ride On Surf School (rideonsurf.com) located behind Captain Dave’s restaurant in Destin. It offers private and group lessons (March through August) along with weeklong surfing camps. A half-hour mini-lesson is just $30. For local surf spots, weather updates and a full surf report before you hit the beach, visit surfline.com. Don’t forget to load up on sunscreen and plenty of water before you hit the beach to hang ten. — ­­ Zandra Wolfgram

PHOTO COURTESY OF RIDE ON SURF SCHOOL

*happiness is ...

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habitat

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Farmhouse Rules PHOTOS COURTESY KOHLER (BATHROOM) AND DXV (SINK)

COUNTRY STYLE HAS MORPHED INTO A SOPHISTICATED, EASY DÉCOR THAT ADAPTS WELL TO COASTAL HOMES BY LIS KING

IS COUNTRY DECORATING BACK? No, now it’s farmhouse. Sure, the friendliness of the country style is still there, but there’s none of the clutter, roosters and dried flowers we remember from Grandma’s house.

Instead, we have fresh, drool-worthy minimalism that fuses vintage and modern, rustic and sleek. It’s epitomized in Joanna Gaines’ “Fixer Upper” show on HGTV, blogs such as Yvonne Pratt’s Stone Gable, catalogs from purveyors like Crate & Barrel and Restoration Hardware, and even glossy magazines usually celebrating high glamour.

Emerald Coast designers call farmhouse a look made in heaven, especially because it’s so versatile.

“It adapts to practically any home except the most formal,” says Brooke Williams of Lovelace Interiors in Destin. “Condo, bungalow, cottage or ranch, traditional or modern.

Farmhouse works anywhere. And it’s so easy to achieve.”

In celebration of EC Magazine’s 15th anniversary, Williams and other design pros have come up with a list of 15 top farmhouse elements but urge you not to change the whole house all at once.

“Let it happen naturally, over time,” recommends Susan Henry of Ava’s Attic in Miramar Beach. “You can’t rush this look. Besides, think of the fun of scouring shops and flea markets for things that warm your heart.”

15 FAVORITE FARMHOUSE FINDS

1. PAINTED KITCHEN CABINETRY WITH GLASS-FRONTED UPPER CABINETS AND OPEN SHELVES that lend

themselves to orderly displays of china and glassware is farmhouseperfect, according to the National Kitchen & Bath Association. Wood countertops, black hardware and white subway tile on the backsplashes complement the look, adds Brooke Williams.

2. What better place to start than in the kitchen, and Cheryl Kees Clendenon of In Detail Interiors of Pensacola singles out the farmhouse sink as a classic and timeless feature. “One of my favorites is AMERICAN STANDARD’S ORCHARD SINK,” she says.

“It features solid walls and a deep bowl that hides everything you put in it.”

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habitat 3. The BARN DOOR is farmhouse-chic, whether made of aged timbers or new wood. Carolyn Simmons of 30A Interiors in Santa Rosa Beach calls it a great space-saver and likes to use barn doors for pantries and bedroom or home office closets. “It’s wonderful for our unpretentious, barefoot lifestyle here along the coast,” she says.

4. Look for a gloriously OLDFASHIONED FOUR-POSTER BED and

dress it with the softest white sheets, fluffy pillows, dotted Swiss coverlet or handcrafted quilt. Always drape a comfy white duvet at the bottom of the bed. Four-posters are readily available at antique shops, auctions and even flea markets. Often they’re made of beautiful, no-longeravailable mahogany, so if you adopt one, don’t paint it. Clean it up and polish it.

5. CEILING BEAMS HARVESTED FROM OLD BARNS OR MILLS are natural farmhouse elements. The more knots and gnarls, the better. Painting them may seem sinful, but design pros say that white paint actually highlights the “warts,” so the space appears fresher yet retains an industrial vibe.

6. Waterfield is a big fan of

7. The RUSTIC FARMHOUSE TABLE is a natural for long talks, good wine and Saturday-morning waffle sessions.

Consider it for the kitchen or dining room, suggests Karen Waterfield of Sugar Beach Interiors in Miramar Beach. Surround it with unmatched chairs or long benches. Want cushions? Think feedsack covers or classic ticking.

8. RUSTIC FURNITURE PIECES AND ACCESSORIES such as the ones handcrafted by Michael Nation of 30Artisan in Santa Rosa Beach help create the juxtapositions that are the trademark of farmhouse decorating.

A good example is one of 30Artisan’s TV stands made from rough, vintage packing crates, with stenciled product information intact. Perch a sleek flat screen TV on it and every designer will say the contrast is just right.

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PHOTO BY ISACKS IMAGERY (BEDROOM) AND COURTESY 30ARTISAN (TABLE AND CONSOLE)

REPURPOSED WOOD FOR FLOORS, in kitchens and elsewhere around the house. “We do a lot of time-worn, scrubbed finishes,” she says. “It adds great farmhouse presence, even in contemporary settings, and it goes coastal in a blink of an eye.”

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12870 US Highway 98 West | Miramar Beach, FL | Between Destin and Sandestin facebook.com/lovelaceinteriors | instagram @lovelaceinteriors

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habitat

PHOTO BY ISACKS IMAGERY (KITCHEN) AND COURTESY 30ARTISAN (COFFEE TABLE)

9. Keep WHITE PAINT on hand.

“Remember, farmhouses aren’t fussy,” notes Carolyn Simmons.

“Materials in them are very textural, yet neutral in color, with a light patina. Interiors are often 50 percent or more white and 25 percent or more natural wood. Also, some of our favorite accessory finds — such as industrial wheels and farm tools — stand out against white walls.”

10. The PAINTED, DISTRESSED CUPBOARD is another farmhouse classic that can go into the kitchen or dining room. “It’s such a good way to bring law and order to collectibles,” notes Susan

Henry. “At Ava’s Attic, we make our own paints to give both old and new, custom-built pieces the right distressed finish.”

11. BEAD BOARD FOR WAINSCOTING is a DIYer’s favorite. “Easy to install,” remarks Yvonne Pratt, who provides clever DIY tips to 700,000 fans tuning in to her blog. “A little dab of chalk paint here and there and it’ll look like it came straight from an old plantation. It’s great for a kitchen, bath, dining room or hallway.”

12. A REPURPOSED COFFEE TABLE is an easy way to add industrial chic to a living

room. It could be a wheeled cart from an old factory, a packing crate, one or two tree stumps or an antique trunk.

All would be standouts when paired with a modern sofa.

13. The MASON JAR is every farmhouse decorator’s friend.

“Plunk flowers in it, fill it with marbles or pods and twigs, dip it in Epsom salt for a frosted look, put a tea light in it,” says Pratt. “A flock of Mason jars can even become pendant lights for the kitchen.”

14. ACCESSORIES can be useful as well as interesting. Pratt likes trays of all kinds, from primitive low crates or baskets

to silver versions with edges.

They are excellent for arranging pretty tablescapes and corral collectibles that would otherwise create clutter, she says.

15. In a recent show, Joanna Gaines demonstrated how FOUND ITEMS can become fascinating art. An old bicycle was cleaned up and hung on the wall of a home office, and a section of picket fencing, paint peeling, became a sculpture hanging over a sleek sofa.

Other found items to adopt as farmhouse art: wooden or iron tools, advertising signs, game boards, antique wooden windows and shutters and textiles with character. ec

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in the neighborhood

GO TO EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM FOR REAL ESTATE LISTINGS

Navarre is a Natural

With Scenic Roadways, Playful Parks and Affordable Fun, Navarre is Renewed BY ZANDRA WOLFGRAM

M

elt away the summertime blues on the sugar-white shores of nature’s last playground — Navarre. With the Santa Rosa Sound to the north, the Gulf of Mexico to the south and the Gulf Islands National Seashore to the east and west, Navarre Beach is a beautiful island oasis for couples and families looking for an authentic coastal lifestyle.

“Navarre is such a jewel,” says veteran Remax Coastal Realtor/broker Ed Smith. “It is really a unique gem here on the Emerald Coast.” Smith says there are pros and cons to a “less is more” lifestyle. “Navarre offers a laidback environment. On the one hand, you’ve got less creative comforts, but then you’ve got less hustle and bustle, too.”

There are plenty of ways to enjoy the natural beauty of Navarre. The 10mile passage between Navarre and Pensacola Beach (Earl Bowden Way) carries drivers, hikers and bikers along a stunning stretch of white-sand wonderland.

Dotted with a dozen shaded pavilions, Navarre Beach Park, nestled between the Gulf and the bay, is perfect for an old-fashioned beach picnic. History buffs can investigate Fort Pickens. Built in 1834, this expansive historic attraction was a prison where Apache warrior Geronimo was once held captive.

One of the most popular natural attractions is the 1,500-foot Navarre Fishing Pier. Navarre is also just minutes from the only zoo on the western end of Northwest Florida. The Gulf Breeze Zoo was recently expanded and 92 June–July 2015

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(Clockwise from top) This beautiful custom country home (top) on Avenida De Galvez is nestled on the bay; Ziplining adventures in Milton provide a bird’s eye view of scenic Coldwater Creek; the 50-acre Gulf Breeze Zoo is just minutes from Navarre.

PHOTOS COURTESY SANTA ROSA COUNTY TOURIST DEVELOPMENT OFFICE (ZIPLINE AND GULF BREEZE ZOO) AND EMERALD COAST REAL ESTATE PHOTOGRAPHY

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upgraded under new ownership and now features a kid-friendly “safari” Miles of pristine beach along park train tour.

Gulf Islands With miles of beautiful beach and National Seashore offers so many fun ways to enjoy it, Navarre endless outdoor is the sure cure for those looking for recreational fun a laid-back coastal lifestyle. Miles of for all ages. unobstructed pathways are perfect for biking and hiking. If you are feeling lucky, you are likely to tempt the likes of snapper, amberjack, grouper and cobia to your fishing line. Navarre is full of simple pleasures, so go fly a kite, take in an outdoor concert at Navarre Beach or play a round of golf at the Club at Hidden Creek.

The local dining options may not be as extensive as some beach towns on the Emerald Coast, but what is located on Navarre Beach is good. You can toast the sunset at Juana’s Pagoda, and enjoy a casual seafood dinner at Sailor’s Grill next door. For fresh sushi in a quaint atmosphere, try The Slippery Mermaid. Savor some new spots: California-style Mexican at the Cactus Flower Café, authentic Northern Italian cuisine at Gugliemo’s and a bit of everything at Johnny Huston’s. Top a day at the beach with a sweet treat from The Twist.

The word is getting out about the Emerald Coast’s last beach bastion. Like most markets on the Emerald Coast, the reduction of both inventory and number of days a property is listed on the market indicate it is normalizing. With average sales at $196,819, Navarre is a great value. And with sellers getting as much as 96.2 percent of their list price, homes and property in Navarre are in demand. With 475 active listings (as of December), there is plenty of opportunity for buyers in the market. Traditional sales are driving the market at a median price of $179,250, as foreclosures, bank owned (REO) and shortsale properties get absorbed.

If Navarre is to your liking, this seasoned broker just may have a patch of sand with your name on it.

“I’ve got a 28-foot Gulf-front lot with a zero lot line for $249,000,” Remax’s Smith says. “We’re talking Gulf front! I don’t know where else you can find that — maybe not anywhere else on the Gulf of Mexico.”

Smith says if you like Navarre and perhaps are happy about what isn’t here, it’s a no-brainer “natural” investment. ec

PHOTO COURTESY SANTA ROSA COUNTY TOURIST DEVELOPMENT OFFICE

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DEAL ESTATE

just sold

When buying or selling your home, ask for

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McNeese Title offers: 56 LANDS END DRIVE, DESTIN

A Home With a Sunny Outlook

PHOTO COURTESY OF CINDY COLE FINE HOMES

Y

ou cannot look at the sunny, yellow beach cottage at 56 Lands End Drive without a smile spreading across your face. The outside appearance along with stunning views, desirable amenities and a sought-after location were major selling points in this Feb. 20, 2015 sale by Cindy Cole.

This three-story home evokes feelBY REBECCA PADGETT ings of warmth and relaxation with its buttery yellow hue and white accents. These feelings carry on into the inside of the home with its coastal chic decor and unique architectural elements. The home is relaxed but elegant with details such as finials, wainscoting, ironwork and hardwood floors.

The home’s most desirable features are views of not one but three bodies of water — the Gulf, East Pass and Lake Christina.

The main floor contains an open-concept kitchen, dining room and living room with a connecting balcony. The dining room features built-in bench seating. This floor also provides a guest bedroom with private balcony.

Take the free-floating staircase or the elevator to the second floor, which boasts the master suite and master bathroom. The master suite is spacious with its own balcony facing the Gulf. The master bathroom is luxurious with a marble inlay spa tub, a separate standup shower and his/her sinks with trendy glass vessels. Another guest bedroom is on the second floor.

QUICK LOOK Spiral up one more set of stairs to LIST PRICE: $950,000 the third floor, which is a tower room SOLD PRICE: $905,000 with a sun deck. This room is ideal SQUARE FEET: 2,518 for lounging around with a good BEDROOMS: 3 book and maybe a summery cocktail.

BATHROOMS: 3 Because beachfront property is CONTACT: Cindy Cole, the major selling point, the outdoor Broker, Cindy Cole Fine living room was an ideal addition to Homes, (850) 502-6344 this home. Features include seating, a cindy@ccfinehomes.com food prep area, a bar and a BBQ pit.

The home is located in Destin Pointe, a gated community on Holiday Isle that provides two pools, two lakes, tennis courts and a beach club.

“56 Lands End offers rare sweeping views of Destin’s Pass over dunes and jetties. The Destin Pointe community attracts buyers looking for the special charm of Old Destin combined with modern amenities and current architecture,” said Cole. ec

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DEAL ESTATE

just listed

21 ONYX COVE, MIRAMAR BEACH

A Spacious, Coastal Cottage

BY REBECCA PADGETT

PHOTO COURTESY OF REALJOY PROPERTIES

B

eyond the gates of Emerald Shores of South Walton stands a cheerful beach cottage with welcoming white shutters. While it has the appearance of a typical beach cottage it is much larger, with three stories of space for family and friends. The home at 21 Onyx Cove has much versatility and would be ideal for a vacation rental, second home or permanent residence.

From the outside it has the looks of a beach bungalow with a classic nautical theme much like a home in the Hamptons. This home is furnished, freshly painted and professionally decorated. The beach-cottage style is evident in the presence of vaulted ceilings, travertine and bamboo floors and white cabinets that give it a summery look year-round.

The home is very spacious with plenty of room for a sea breeze to QUICK LOOK sweep through the windows. The LIST PRICE: $528,500 kitchen, dining room and living SQUARE FEET: 2,350 room are all open and connecting, BEDROOMS: 5 which allows easy access from one BATHROOMS: 3 ½ room to the next. The luxurious CONTACT: Jodi Ketchersid, master bed and bath are convenientRealJoy Properties, ly located on the first floor. The sec(850) 830-5634, ond and third floors feature the adJLKetchersid@gmail.com ditional bedrooms and bathrooms.

Currently, one of the bedrooms is being used as a sitting room. The second and third floors both have balcony access.

The balconies provide gorgeous views of palm trees and the scent of the ocean waves nearby. For a break from the sun or an escape from an afternoon rainfall, there is a screened porch on the lowest level.

Just take a short walk and your toes will be in the sand or surf. Or enjoy the amenities of the Emerald Shores community, which include two pools, tennis courts, basketball courts, shuffleboard, picnic tables and private cabanas.

This home is in a very central and popular location being close to Emerald Coast Parkway and Scenic Highway 98.

“This sweet beach cottage is within minutes to shopping, dining, fishing and all that the Emerald Coast has to offer,” said Realtor Jodi Ketchersid. ec EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM June–July 2015

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ms. grow-it-all

Despite its beauty, all parts of the oleander (above) are poisonous. “Leaves of three, let them be,” is the warning for poison ivy (below), which can show up in your garden without being planted there.

st, Ms. Grow-I t-A y Po ll dre Au

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Q: We want to do some major landscape renovations, and we want to make sure the plants we select are safe for our pets and our grandchildren. We’re really not sure which plants are poisonous, so we’d like some direction. Can you help?

A: It is possible to have a beautiful landscape without using poisonous plants, and you’re wise to make sure your yard is safe. Little ones, both twolegged and four-legged, have a habit of putting things in their mouths. Certain plants can cause allergic reactions in some people, but others are toxic and can cause serious problems. Never burn poisonous plants to get rid of them, because the smoke is toxic and breathing it can damage your lungs. The following list includes some of the most common landscape plants that are poisonous, but it’s by no means inclusive. If in doubt, check with your local county extension horticultural agent or your master gardener office.

The most poisonous plant I can think of is oleander, a beautiful ornamental shrub that is highly toxic. It’s beautiful, but all parts are deadly.

Poison ivy. Distinguish this plant from the similar Virginia creeper by the number of leaves. Virginia creeper has five leaves; poison ivy has three.

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Angel trumpet (Datura), a shrub with trumpet-shaped flowers. All parts Other plants on the watch list are are poisonous. (clockwise from American holly. The berries are toxic. top) caladium, Common lantana. Unripe lantana angel trumpet and the invasive berries are toxic, which is another reason common lantana. not to plant this invasive exotic. Stick to modern hybrids.

Caladium leaves and stems, which contain oxalate crystals.

They cause pain when chewed and vomiting when swallowed.

Foxglove, the source of natural digitalis. All parts are poisonous if swallowed.

Poinsettia and azalea can cause skin irritation and reaction, but neither is poisonous, contrary to myth.

Rhubarb. While the stems, when cooked, are tasty in a number of dishes, the leaves — raw or cooked — are poisonous.

Daphne. Its fragrant flowers belie the poison in its berries.

Castor beans, which create beautiful vines, are highly toxic.

Yes, the beans are the source of castor oil, but they’re poisonous in their natural state.

Some lilies, the Glory Lily in particular.

Belladonna, also known as deadly nightshade, lives up to its common name as both the leaves and berries are poisonous.

A number of plants commonly used as houseplants are also poisonous, including dieffenbachia (commonly known as dumb cane), philodendron, peace lily and pothos.

Philodendron selloum, the large split-leaf philodendron.

Carolina yellow Jessamine, a flowering, climbing vine.

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ms. grow-it-all

The Tradition Continues.

Mobile. Charleston. Birmingham. Peachtree City.

And Now Introducing Santa Rosa Beach.

A new standard of assisted living and memory care is now available, continuing a long-standing commitment to inspiring and nurturing successful aging. Somerby of Santa Rosa Beach is the latest addition to the Somerby Senior Living family and Florida’s newest best in class.

Enjoy a premier location just minutes from the beach, shopping, entertainment and restaurant venues, and the renowned Sacred Heart Hospital on the Emerald Coast.

Beautiful, maintenance-free residences offer the perfect blend of comfort and convenience. Our warm, inviting common areas encourage socialization and community.

And our groundbreaking approach to wellness provides seniors and their loved ones the utmost peace of mind.

Yellow Allamanda, another climbing vine that flowers.

Before you conclude that you can grow nothing but grass if you want to keep the kids and pets safe, take heart. There are some plants that are considered safe: African daisies Bird of paradise Boston fern Camellias Cast-iron plant Christmas cactus Fatsia Figs Geraniums Nasturtiums Orchids Roses

Belladonna (top) was rumored to be the favored poison of Roman murderesses; ingesting just a few of its berries can be fatal. Never fear, there are perfectly safe plants, including the geranium (above).

Another way to make sure your plants are safe is to include a small vegetable patch in your landscape. Teaching your grandchildren about the joys of growing your own food is a valuable lesson for them and a fun activity you can do together. ec © 2015 Postscript Publishing, all rights reserved. Audrey Post is a certified Advanced Master Gardener volunteer with the University of Florida IFAS Extension in Leon County. Email her at Questions@MsGrowItAll.com or visit her website at msgrowitall.com. Ms. Grow-It-All® is a registered trademark of Postscript Publishing.

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f.y.i.

The Dangers of

ENERGY DRINKS

DOCTORS SAY THESE POPULAR PICK-ME-UPS CAN CHANGE THE COURSE OF YOUR HEALTH BY TISHA CREWS KELLER

PHOTO BY MATT BURKE

i

f energy drinks had a doctor-prescribed warning label, it would read something like this: Product contains caffeine and may also include medicinal herbs. People with anxiety or psychiatric disorders, heart conditions and children should avoid their use. Avoid combining them with alcohol. Everyone in general and elderly people in particular should be cautious using them, especially if the person has a known history of fainting spells, lightheadedness, high blood pressure, diabetes or cardiac rhythm disorders.

Did you get the “everyone in general” statement?

Energy drinks like Red Bull and Monster and “shots” such as 5-Hour Energy are far more than just a quick pick-me-up — and

certainly more complex than soda or a cup of coffee. As more and more patients are discovering, these concoctions may have longterm effects on your health.

Some physicians even go so far as to advise no one should drink them—ever.

He’s not alone. Doctors are becoming more and more concerned as the effects of these energy drinks compound at an alarming rate in America’s emergency rooms.

Commonplace on the market, the products are unregulated and have no warning labels, although many, including several local physicians, believe they should.

Dr. Douglas Rigby, a pediatrician at White-Wilson Medical Center in Fort Walton Beach, has a real concern for those using

energy drinks — especially the target population of young males.

“As doctors, we’ve known for a long time that caffeine is a potent drug,” he warns.

According to Rigby, doctors use caffeine to stimulate breathing in premature infants, and it can be very useful if used correctly.

Unfortunately, most youth (and adults, for that matter) don’t know the dangers the common drug can pose.

Maxing Out The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s studies show that beverages marketed as energy drinks have become a popular source of caffeine, with some brands containing the caffeine equivalent of one to three cups of coffee or cans of soda. While caffeine is the main active ingredient, energy drinks also include other ingredients that claim to boost physical energy or mental alertness, such as herbal substances, amino acids and sugars. About 6 percent of adolescent and young adult males in U.S. civilian and military populations consume energy drinks daily that can have negative side effects, such as caffeine intoxication, overdose, withdrawal and interactions with alcohol.

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM June–July 2015

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f.y.i.

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Rigby says the maximum recommended daily “dose” of caffeine is about 400 milligrams a day for adults. When the total dose reaches 1,000 milligrams in one day, the toxic effects of the drug are real dangers, including tremors, seizure, kidney and liver problems. At 5,000 milligrams in 24 hours, caffeine is a lethal drug.

Typically, these drinks have anywhere from “An ingredient like 200–400 mg of caffeine Guana has two per container. By comtimes as much parison, 8 ounces of cofcaffeine as coffee fee has 163 mg and one Diet Coke has 45. But beans, and this is in many people don’t stop addition to the ‘addwith just one energy in’ caffeine that drink, and they usually have other forms of cafmanufacturers list feine that contribute to on the label. Often, their daily total intake you can double the — and they reach danlisted amount of gerous levels quickly.

A main side effect of caffeine to know large amounts of cafhow much you’re feine and sugar can rereally getting.” sult in palpitations and a sensation of a racing — Dr. Douglas Rigby, a heart. pediatrician at White“It seems that a cutWilson Medical Center in off of six cups of coffee Fort Walton Beach a day is a threshold over which people might be at risk of developing arrhythmias such as atrial fibrillation or other abnormal rhythms,” says Dr. Farhat Khairallah, an electrophysiologist in Tallahassee.

That could be as few as two cans of energy drink.

Wolf in Sheep’s Clothes Another problem with energy drinks is how they are used. Most consumers are trying to amp up energy that’s lacking because of a sleep deficit — which has myriad effects on the body. Doctors warn that people should avoid using these drinks to prevent sleep when their body needs rest.

Many young people use them as sports drinks and for general hydration throughout the day. Khairallah believes this is a problem because caffeine, as a stimulant, can increase blood pressure and has diuretic properties. That’s why he and other health professionals warn that you cannot consider drinking coffee or energy drinks as adequate hydration.

One of the main problems with energy drinks from a medical standpoint is how they are marketed. They are almost described as a health food, when in reality it’s more than just the caffeine that is worrisome. And because they are classified as “food products,” the FDA does not regulate them as they do medications.

The vitamins and herbal ingredients in energy drinks can have unintended consequences on health. For instance, taurine is an organic acid used in muscles and brain tissue — it’s one of the body’s building blocks. Too much, however, can be a bad thing.

Vitamin B-6 is another common energy drink component.

While too little B-6 causes neuropathy — a deficiency of peripheral (such as hand or foot) nerves that results in weakness

and numbness — the inverse is also true. Too much B-6 in your diet also can cause neuropathy, and it may not be an easy fix.

“An ingredient like Guana has two times as much caffeine as coffee beans, and this is in addition to the ‘add-in’ caffeine that manufacturers list on the label,” Rigby points out. “Often, you can double the listed amount of caffeine to know how much you’re really getting.”

He sees patients of all ages, including a rising number of college-aged individuals, that have anxiety and other health problems that could be caused by energy drinks. As a result, Rigby tries to talk with all adolescent patients about energy drinks.

Amazingly, he has seen patients as young as 6 or 7 who are already accustomed to the beverages.

“When you think about it, the 400 mg/day recommendation is for adults,” Rigby says. In the smaller bodies of children, these drugs — and their effects — are more concentrated and thus more dangerous.

These drinks may be linked to cognitive decline, seizures, sleep disturbances, mood disorders such as anxiety and anger, tremors and increased blood pressure — which could lead to a stroke at any age.

Mixing It Up A simple Google search returns hundreds of recipes for energy drink cocktails, with chilling names such as “The All-Nighter,” “1.21 Gigawatts” and “1-2-3-Floor.” Parents of a Florida State University sophomore sued the makers of Four Loco in 2010 after he drank the high-alcohol malt beverage mixed with caffeine, taurine, guarna and carbonation — sometimes called “blackout in a can” — began acting erratically and accidently shot himself to death. While Four Loco was banned for a time, it is back on store shelves after being reformulated to eliminate the stimulants.

Physicians have a special warning for mixing energy drinks with alcohol. “Mixing these drinks with alcohol will have a definite increased risk of cardiac arrhythmias — specifically atrial fibrillation,” warned Khairallah. And adults beware: Older people are more susceptible.

Instead of the pharmaceutical pick-me-up, Blueprint Health Studio owner and trainer Matt Staver has tips for naturally — and healthfully — waking up.

“Stretching and early morning workouts are good for increased blood flow,” he says. “And exercise increases our endorphin levels giving us sharpened focus and a burst of energy.”

In addition, Staver recommends chia seeds as an energy food and essential fatty acid boost, both of which put more pep in your step. Honey is also known as nature’s natural energy booster because it’s a great source of carbohydrates and is known for increasing endurance. Glucose in honey is absorbed quickly by the body, which provides an immediate energy boost.

The long-term effects of an overuse of energy drinks are not yet known. It appears that more than one drink per day in a healthy individual may be too much, and the health consequences can be deadly if seizure or arrhythmia results. There is no lower age limit on the risk for these conditions, and young people often add in additional risk factors to their consumption.

Local physicians hope that energy drinks might one day be regulated as the pharmaceuticals that they really are — with interaction warnings, overdose symptoms and age limitations.

Until that day comes, they urge you — with great fervor — to leave them on the shelf. ec EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM June–July 2015

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in motion

Snuba!

TEST THE WATERS WITH THIS EASY, UNDERWATER DIVING ADVENTURE

BY ZANDRA WOLFGRAM

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w

ith natural and artificial wrecks, reefs and dive sites buzzing with exotic sea life in the Gulf of Mexico, the Emerald Coast is making a splash as a diving hot spot.

If you are not a certified scuba diver but want to channel your inner Jacques Cousteau in an underwater diving adventure, give snuba a try. Destin Snorkel — owned and operated from the Destin Harbor by certified divers Val and Laura Costley — is the only outfit on the Northwest Florida Gulf coast to offer this relatively new water sport, which combines the technology of diving with the freedom of snorkeling.

GREGG VELEZ JIM MAYFIELD, SNUBA INTERNATIONAL, INC.

Snuba diving does not involve the bulky equipment, intensive training and certification associated with scuba diving, making it great option for an impromptu vacation day adventure. “Think of it as a cross between snorkeling and scuba diving,” says Laura.

You are tethered with a 20-foot airline, which is connected to a scuba tank mounted on a raft floating on the surface. With guides overseeing your dive you can safely plunge down to a depth of 20 feet — considered the “life zone.”

The Costleys take dive groups to the Destin jetties, which is “swimming with life.” Here, you’re sure to spot plenty of tropical marine life that you just cannot see by snorkeling the surface, like

wily wrasse, bright colored tang, puffer fish, toadfish, spadefish and plenty of sea creatures A tether and such as sea anemones and sea urchins. And, experienced guide allow snuba divers of course, scuttling on the bottom you’ll likely to safely explore spot the likes of blue crab, stone crab and to depths of about hermit crabs, too.

20 feet below the surface; The After signing a waiver and watching a spadefish (above), 30-minute orientation video, you board the often mistaken for an angel fish, Snuba Runner, and once at the site you take prefers shallow turns diving in with a guide. The excursion coastal waters lasts a couple hours with the actual dive and is often found in large schools lasting from 20 to 30 minutes. around natural and “It’s a dive experience,” says Val, who is artificial reefs. a certified rescue diver and Destin Snorkel guide, “so you’re able to experience what it’s like to breathe through the regulator, but you don’t have the tank on the back. You can take that next diving step and get the training, and we handle the rest.”

It’s also an easy and safe way to “test the waters” of the sport of diving. “It’s a great way for certified divers who have a friend or spouse to try it out,” Val says. “A lot of parents are certified, but their kids aren’t. This gives them a chance to get a feel for it without a big investment or time or money.”

Snuba is way for novice divers to experience what it’s like to breathe through a regulator — which can feel counter-intuitive at first. “Most people have a tendency to not breathe when they get in the water. That’s what you want not to do,” Val says. He advises to try snuba a couple times, get the feel of it and relax. “Once you forget about breathing, it becomes a natural thing; you open up and you start enjoying it.”

After experiencing snuba on a trip to Mexico, the Costleys added it to their list of water sport offerings in 2010. Their efforts have helped to propel interest in the sport, and the industry has taken notice. In March, Snuba International named Destin Snorkel International Tour Operator of the Year for snuba.

In the spring Destin Snorkel has trips once a week, but during peak summer tourist season, they offer two excursions a day. The Costleys welcome anyone at least 8 years old, who is in good health and has basic swimming skills to try this underwater adventure.

The cost is $86 for adults and $65 for children (ages 8–12). It includes the guided excursion and complimentary sodas and water.

It’s a good idea to make reservations a couple of days in advance either by phone or online at destinsnorkel.com. You can relive your Bucket List moment with a keepsake custom DVD or 3D-video of your adventure shot by a professional underwater photographer for around $20.

The Costleys both say the only thing you need to bring before ticking this item off your Bucket List is “a sense of adventure.” ec EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM June–July 2015

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BEST of the

Emerald Coast OTE! CAST YOUR V YOU BE THE JUDGE! There is a time for everything. And believe it or not, now is the time to be judgmental. Yes, we are asking you to be a judge. As a local, you are by definition an official expert on the “Best of” everything on the Emerald Coast. So, we’d like you to weigh in. Please cast your votes for the Best of the Emerald Coast 2015. An independent firm will identify the top vote getters in each category. The Best of winners will be featured in the October/November 2015 issue.

But everyone along the EC will have a chance to gather together to toast (and sample!) the winners at the annual Best of the Emerald Coast awards celebration at Grand Boulevard on SATURDAY, OCT. 24, FROM 6 TO 9 P.M. Proceeds from EC’s festive, family-friendly event benefit the Junior League of the Emerald Coast.

And, of course, in exchange for your votes the hardworking owners at each winning restaurant, shop and business get the appreciation and recognition they so deserve. Reserve tickets (after Aug. 1) at emeraldcoastmagazine.com. Now is the time to pull out the stops and give EC your “Best.” Don’t worry, we won’t judge.

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2015 OFFICIAL BEST OF THE EMERALD COAST BALLOT BROUGHT TO YOU BY:

THE RULES OK, get your pens ready. But first, please take note of our rules, which are designed to make the contest as fair as possible: • Only ballots printed on original magazine pages will be accepted — no copies (color or black-and-white) or facsimiles of the ballot.

• Ballots must have votes in at least 20 categories.

• All votes must be for Emerald Coast-area businesses.

• No incentives, prizes, goods or services may be offered in exchange for votes.

FOOD & BEVERAGE Appetizer: Bagel Shop: Bakery: Bar/Tavern: BBQ: Beer Selection: Bloody Mary: Breakfast: Brunch: Cajun/Creole: Chef: Chinese: Coffee: Dessert: Fine Dining: Food Truck /Airstream: French: Gourmet/Food Shop/Speciality Food Store: Grouper Sandwich: Gumbo: Hamburger: Happy Hour: Hibachi: Best Frozen Treat (Ice Cream, Yogurt, Gelato, Snow Cones):

Italian: Locally Owned Restaurant: Margarita: Martini: Mediterranean:

• Only one ballot per envelope is permitted.

•B usinesses may not require ballots to be turned in to a central location; ballots must be filled out independently and mailed to address listed below.

• All ballots must be mailed directly to the post office box address below: Coastal Accounting Certified Public Accountants & Consultants C/O: Best of the Emerald Coast 1150 Airport Rd, Unit 172 Destin, FL 32541 • Ballots must be postmarked by June 30, 2015.

• Obvious attempts at ballot stuffing will be disqualified.

•A ny winning business must be in good standing with Rowland Publishing Inc. in order to be promoted as a “Best of Winner.”

Once ballots are counted, all tabulations are final.

Mexican/Latin American Restaurant: Onsite Catering: Outdoor Bar: Outdoor Dining: Oysters: Pizza: Restaurant in Bay County: Restaurant in Escambia County: Restaurant in Okaloosa County: Restaurant in Walton County: Romantic/Special Occasion Restaurant: Sandwich Shop: Seafood Market: Seafood Restaurant: Service, Food & Beverage: Sports Bar: Steakhouse: Sushi: Thai: Wine List/Wine Bar: Wings:

SERVICE PROVIDERS Aesthetician: Acupuncture Clinic: Airport: Architect: ATV/Golf/Electric Cart Dealership: Audio/Visual Provider: Automobile Dealership: Auto Repair/Body Shop:

✁ EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM June–July 2015

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Bank: Printing/Copying Services: Boat Sales and Service: Property Management Group: Builder/Contractor: PR/Advertising Agency: Car/Limo/Shuttle Service: Real Estate Group: Charity/Non-profit: Security/Alarm System: Charter Boat/Watersports: Spa Services: Chiropractic Practice: Specialty Fitness (Pilates, yoga, etc.): Computer Repair Services/Tech Support: Specialty Pet Services/Products: Cosmetic/Plastic Surgery Practice: Specialty Surgical Practice: Credit Union: Title Company: Customer Service: Vacation Rental Company/Service: Dance/Cheerleading/Gymnastics Class: Veterinarian: Dental Practice: Wedding Planner Company: Dermatology Practice: Wedding/Reception Venue: Event Planning Firm: Weight Loss Facility: Event Venue: SHOPPING Eye Doctor Practice: Antiques Shop: Family Physician/Practice: Beachwear Retailer: Financial Planning/Investment Firm: Children’s Clothing Retailer: Flooring: Consignment/Resale Shop: Florist: Eyewear Store: Gym/Health Club/Fitness Center/Studio: Furniture Retailer: Hair Salon: Gift Shop: Heating and Air Service: Jewelry Store: Holistic/Alternative Health: Homeowner’s Association: Locally Owned Retailer: Insurance Agency: Men’s Apparel: Interior Design Firm: Outdoor Furniture Retailer: Landscaping/Lawn Service: Sporting Goods Retailer: Law Firm: Wedding Shop: Lighting Store: Women’s Accessories: Locksmith: Women’s Apparel: Martial Arts/Karate: Women’s Shoes: Massage Therapist: ENTERTAINMENT Media Provider (Cable, Internet, Phone): Art Gallery: Medical Center/Hospital: Best Place for Kids Birthday Party: Medical Practice:

DJ: Nail Salon: Golf Course: On-site Dry Cleaner: Local Artist: Oral Health Care Specialty Practice (Orthodontics, Oral Local Attraction: Surgery, Periodontics): Local Event: Orthopedic Surgical Practice: Musician/Vocalist/Band: Pediatric Practice: Place for a Date: Personal Trainer: Place To Go Dancing: Pharmacy: Place To Take the Kids: Photo Booth Company: Place To Watch a Sunset: Photography: Radio Personality: Physical Therapy Practice: Resort: Plumbing Fixtures/Service: Pool Building/Service Company: Tennis Facility:

2014

DON’T FORGET TO CHECK OUT THE BALLOT STARTING ON PAGE 113 TO VOTE FOR THIS YEAR’S CATEGORIES.

AVA’S ATTIC & CONSIGNMENT BOUTIQUE B E ST CONS IGNMENT/R E SA L E S HO P M U L T I -Y E A R W I N N E R

BEAUTIFUL LIGHTS B E ST LI GH T I N G STO R E 2 0 1 0 – 2 0 1 4

CLEMENZA’S BE ST I TA L I A N & O K A LO O SA COUNTY R E STAU R A N T | M U L T I -Y E A R W I N N E R

Browse 10,000 square feet of shopping with furniture, clothing, shoes, purses and a new line of repurposed custom-built and painted furniture at Ava’s Attic. From one-of-a-kind treasures to upscale women’s apparel and accessories, there is something for everyone.

Beautiful Lights

Lighting ... Or Art? You decide.

Beautiful Lights fits every need and budget, providing impeccable service and always striving for unique, beautiful and innovative lighting options along with design consultations for residential and commercial clients.

With Italian roots and a desire to delight its patrons, Clemenza’s encompasses all that is Italian cuisine. From wood-fired pizzas and traditional red sauces to pasta and clams, paired with one of our premier wines, Clemenza’s offers a classic taste of Italy.

SHOPS OF DESTINY 3 6 2 3 6 E M E R A L D C O A S T PA R K W AY, S U I T E C 2 DESTIN | 850.650.9417

U P T O W N S TAT I O N , 7 5 E G L I N PA R K W AY FO RT WA LTO N B E AC H | 8 5 0 . 243 . 0707 C L E M E N Z A S AT U P T O W N . C O M

COASTAL SKIN SURGERY & DERMATOLOGY BE ST D ER MATOLOGY P R ACT I CE | 2 0 1 2 , 2013, 2014

DESTIN LOCKSMITHING B E ST LO C KS M I T H | 2 0 1 3 - 2 0 1 4

INFINITY FLOORING BE ST F LO O R I N G | 2 0 1 0 – 2 0 1 4

Specializing in medical, surgical and cosmetic dermatology, our providers offer comprehensive dermatological care to patients of all ages, focusing on each patient’s individual concerns and needs. Offering: Same Day Appointments, Fellowship-Trained Mohs Surgery and Skin Rejuvenation Treatments.

Their professional mobile staff is full service and operates 24 hours a day and 7 days a week. Also visit their 2,200-square-foot Locksmith Showroom.

Voted Best of the Emerald Coast for the last five years, Infinity Flooring is locally owned and operated and has been doing business along the Emerald Coast for the last 20 years. Our new showroom is filled with a wide range of products for your needs, including carpet, tile, wood, luxury vinyls, decorative tiles and custom area rugs.

1 2 8 8 9 E M E R A L D C O A S T PA R K W AY, D E S T I N 850. 424.6767 F A C E B O O K . C O M /A V A S . AT T I C B O U T I Q U E

M I RA M A R B E AC H , N I C E V I L L E , FO RT WA LTO N B E AC H 8 5 0 . 6 5 4 . 3 3 7 6 | C O A S TA L S K I N S U R G E R Y. C O M

1 3 3 4 6 H WY 9 8 W E ST, D E ST I N | 8 5 0 . 65 4 . 9 9 1 0 DESTINLOCKSMITHING.COM

2 9 6 S . H O L I D AY R O A D , M I R A M A R B E A C H 850.650.1039 | INFINITYFLOORS.COM

LEGENDARY MARINE BEST BOAT SALES AND SERVICE | M U L T I -Y E A R W I N N E R Legendary Marine, with locations in Destin, Fort Walton Beach, Panama City and Gulf Shores, Ala., offers new boat and premium pre-owned sales, the largest factoryauthorized service departments on the Gulf Coast, full marina services and dry storage.

F O U R L O C AT I O N S | L E G E N D A R Y M A R I N E . C O M

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM June–July 2015

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2014

DON’T FORGET TO CHECK OUT THE BALLOT STARTING ON PAGE 113 TO VOTE FOR THIS YEAR’S CATEGORIES.

LENNY’S SUBS BE ST SA NDWIC H S H OP | 2 0 1 0 – 2 0 1 4

MAMA CLEMENZA’S EUROPEAN BREAKFAST B E ST B RU N C H | M U L T I -Y E A R W I N N E R

RESOLUTE MARTIAL ARTS BEST MARTIAL ARTS/KARATE | 2 0 1 2 – 2 0 1 4

Fresh baked bread and sliced meats taste better. Lenny’s Subs offers the freshest, from our breads to the homemade chicken salad, all topped with fresh sliced vegetables.

Famous beef and chicken Philly subs hot off the grill.

Culinary perfection, diverse menu and authentic old world family recipes, simply the best!

A customer quoted: “At 82 I can count the memorable meals on one hand and this is one of them.” Locally owned — vote Mama Clemenza’s!

Resolute Martial Arts develops mental and physical strength, allowing students to overcome challenges and reach goals. Our school provides a safe, positive, fun and supportive journey to Black Belt fitness and beyond. We strive to provide professional, friendly service to our students, their families and our community.

5 G R E AT L O C AT I O N S | L E N N Y S . C O M

MIRAMAR BEACH, 12273 EMERALD COAST PKWY 844. 246.MAMA (TOLL FREE) UPTOWN STATION, 75 EGLIN PARKWAY FORT WALTON BEACH | 850.243.0707 | MAMACLEMENZAS.COM

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going places

Cranes

On the Plain WATCH AS MOST OF THE WORLD’S SANDHILL CRANES MAKE A MIGRATION PIT STOP IN NEBRASKA

a

BY JOHN MOOSHIE

t 6:30 a.m. in Kearney, Nebraska, the temperature is well below freezing. An almost full moon has cast light over the Platte River, and I can barely make out what appear to be a number of large islands in the river. I’m standing in a fully enclosed viewing blind with 30 other photojournalists, waiting. The blind protects us from the elements but is not heated. Nebraska in March is cold … very cold.

I had been invited to Central Nebraska to experience one of the great migration stories on earth … that of the Sandhill Cranes. We have approached the river under the cover of darkness to prevent spooking the cranes. With cameras (no flash), scopes and binoculars in hand, and dressed in dark clothing to help us blend in walking to and from the blinds, we waited for dawn to arrive.

Shhhhhhh … no talking. Whispers only. Otherwise, we might startle the birds into a panicked and potentially disastrous departure. Also, part of the experience is listening to their sounds. Cranes are noted for their exceptional bugling calls, made possible by their especially long windpipe, sometimes heard up to 3 miles away.

Nearly 600,000 cranes, representing about 80 percent of the world’s population, descend and depend upon the Platte River somewhere around mid-February as their spring staging area for travel up north. They’ll reach peak numbers around mid-March and depart by April 15. The Platte Valley is ideally located

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along the Central Flyway migration route that takes the cranes from their wintering residences in the southern United States and Mexico to their breeding grounds in Canada, Alaska and even Siberia. A few of the endangered whooping cranes as well as eagles, ducks, snow geese and shorebirds are among the other wildlife that migrate along this same route.

Sandhill Cranes are living dinosaurs.

Fossils of wing bones have been discovered in this part of Nebraska. The species has survived because of its complex social behaviors, long-term care of its young and adaptability. Cranes have been around for 60 million years, the longest successful tenure on earth. In fact, the Sandhill Crane is the oldest living bird species and has remained virtually unchanged for the last nine million years.

The Platte River Basin is the only ecosystem along the migration route that fulfills all the requirements for roosting, resting and restoration. So the stopover is necessary for them to build up fat reserves necessary to sustain the cranes as they make their way through the strenuous nesting season up north. Each crane will add some 18 to 20 percent to its body weight by feeding on waste corn in the surrounding fields. Estimates have it that they will eat over 80 percent, or up to 1,600 tons of waste corn as the main part of their diet. The other 20 percent is found in the meadows in the form of seeds, grubs, worms, snails, small reptiles and rodents adjacent to the river.

Nebraska’s Platte River offers an epic view every spring — the migration of Sandhill Cranes from their southern wintering spots to their breeding grounds in northern climes.

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going places

As the dawn broke and my eyes adjusted to the grayness, I realized we were not alone.

What I thought were islands in the river were, in fact, upward of 50,000 cranes. They spend each night “roosting” on the shallow sandbars in the open channels of the river protected from possible predators like coyotes. The channels will normally be 500 feet wide with water depths of 6 inches or less.

We’re told not to attempt to approach the birds on their roosts as one alarm call from a bird can send the entire flock into panicked flight, using up precious energy reserves and exposing the birds to hazards such as power lines … not to mention ruining the viewing experience of the many other visitors. At this time of the morning, the cranes shuffle up and down the river waiting for the sun to rise. Then, as the sun appeared over the horizon, the cranes began their day’s journey to feed and loaf in the surrounding fields.

They lift off in waves, a systematic departure that really caught my attention. It was almost like a designated leader of a specific company of cranes would give the command to leave. Then, in roughly five-minute increments, other such groups would receive their “signal” and lift off for the fields located within a 3 to 8 mile radius of the river.

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During the day when they are not feeding, the cranes “dance” to relieve the stress of migration and strengthen their pair bonds. Cranes are monogamous and tend to pair when they are 3 to 6 years old. They have an elaborate courtship to help synchronize breeding readiness. Considered to be the most accomplished dancers in the animal kingdom, their dance includes head bobbing, bowing, arching, jumping as high as 5 feet, wing flapping, running and twig tossing.

Once the birds left the river, we drove along the countryside to view the cranes as they surveyed the fields for food. Even though it was a sunny and clear day, the sky appeared to have black cloudlike formations — actually thousands of birds seeking their field destination. Seeing those “dark clouds” made me think of what the French and Germans must have felt during the Normandy invasion in 1944 as the allied planes made their way across Europe. The cranes travel an average of six miles per day and spend the day feeding, dancing, loafing and on calm clear days they’ll also ride the air currents.

The cranes migrating along the Central Flyway can fly up to 3,700 miles one way to the Bering Straits and up to 5,000 miles one

MELENBACKER PHOTOGRAPHY

Relish Culinary Adventures

way to Eastern Siberia.

They are not large birds, The daily and to conserve energy show from the traveling for their long migration cranes includes they use the thermals to elaborate “dances” by gain altitude and soar mated pairs. with the currents until they find another thermal to lift them up again. Most will fly at an average of 3,000 to 6,000 feet but have been known to reach 13,000 feet. During their migration they’ll fly between 200–400 miles per day at about 38 miles per hour depending on the wind and weather conditions.

As sunset approached, we returned to the blinds to see the cranes return to the Platte River to roost. And in thousands of groups ranging from three to 300, they made their way back to the day’s starting point with such intense bugling that the sound has been indelibly etched in my mind forever.

It’s now 6:30 p.m., a full 12 hours from when we started. There is no question: The arrival of the cranes on the Platte River and the millions of other migratory birds that visit this area each year is one of the greatest wildlife spectacles on the continent. This witness to one of the world’s great migrations has been an experience I will never forget. ec

FRONTIER TRAILS

PHOTOS COURTESY KEARNEY VISITORS BUREAU (ARCHWAY, MODEL T), GOTHENBURG COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT OFFICE (PONY EXPRESS) AND GRAND ISLAND CONVENTION AND VISITORS BUREAU (STUHR MUSEUM)

Come for the Cranes, Stay for the History and Attractions in Central Nebraska The Great Platte River Road Archway (archway. org) is a unique piece of architecture resembling a covered bridge between two towers and spans Interstate 80. The 15 exhibits inside will transport you back to when the Overland Trails, The Great Platte River Road Archway transcontinental railroad and Lincoln Highway helped settle the west. Its Pawnee Scout Exhibit is a moving reminder of the role the tribe played in westward expansion.

Car buffs will fancy the Classic Car Collection (classiccarcollection.org) featuring more than 165 vintage automobiles from the early 1900s Classic Car Collection to the 1990s.

The Lincoln Highway, celebrating its centennial this year, stretched 3,400 miles from New York City to San Francisco and was the forerunner to the present day Interstate Highway System.

The Stuhr Museum (stuhrmuseum.org) in Grand Island features an actual The Stuhr Museum✽ street scene in a 1890s railroad town and is one of the top living history museums in the country.

Other interesting attractions include an original Pony Express Station in Gothenburg, the historic Union Pacific depot at the 100th Meridian in Cozad, the Pony Express Station Nebraska Wild Horse and Burro Facility at Elm Creek, the birthplace of Kool-Aid ✽ The Stuhr Museum building was in Hastings and the MPH designed by Edward Durell Stone, the Motorsport Park where race architect who also designed Florida’s and car buffs can safely test Capitol building. their cars and driving skills.

The Frontier Trails area of Nebraska offers a whirlwind of things to see and places to visit.

Its historical past and modern-day attractions converge to create a wonderful experience for the entire family or the discriminating traveler who wants to depart from the ordinary. The Best Western Plus Mid Nebraska Inn & Suites in Kearney (308-234-2541) is the finest Best Western I have experienced.

A special crane watching festival (cranewatchfestival.com) is held in March. Morning and evening watch events are held daily at the Rowe Sanctuary (rowe.audubon.org) and roadside viewing sites abound.

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mind + body

Meditation

MENDING THE MIND, ONE BREATH AT A TIME

t

ake a deep breath. Relax your shoulders.

Now your mind. Breathe. Breathe. Breathe.

Any good yogi with his or her chakras in working order will tell you that if you can follow those simple directions, you can meditate.

In fact, staying conscious of one’s breathing is a technique many meditation coaches refer to as “breath awareness meditation.”

On the long journey to mastering this ancient practice, it’s the perfect place to start.

“Usually I’ll just start with focusing on our breaths and teaching people how to be centered with just a simple breathing technique,” said Laurie Beck, owner of Santa Rosa Beach-based Pilates by the Sea. For novice meditation practitioners, experts agree that this soothing mental exercise is ideal for learning how to tune out the distractions and stressors of the modern world, one relaxing breath at a time. Once you figure out how to do so on the yoga mat, they say, it’s far easier to do the same in everyday life.

“Just sit down and, for five minutes, know that you’re breathing in and know that you’re breathing out,” explained Felicia McQuaid, owner of The Healing Clinic in Fort Walton Beach. “And

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BY CHAY D. BAXLEY

in that, the mind is directed to one thing, and all those other thoughts will come and go, but your anchor is a breath in and a breath out.”

It all sounds very relaxing, no doubt. But, technically speaking, what exactly is meditation? Who should try it out? And, besides breathing, how does one know where to begin?

Defining this incredibly personal experience can be tricky and is perhaps best explained by what it is not. For instance, if you’re thinking meditation is about solving the world’s problems, or is solely aimed at somehow gaining religious insight or becoming enlightened, you couldn’t be more wrong.

In reality, it’s just about you.

“Meditation, to me, is putting the mind and the body in a calm place,” said Beck, who recently published her memoirs chronicling her struggles with cancer in her autobiography, “I Am Living to Tell.” “It’s learning how to be quiet and allow whatever needs to come in to come in, but also to release what does not serve you.”

With A-listers from Oprah Winfrey to Huffington Post editor-in-chief Arianna Huffington taking to the airwaves to give the art of meditation its just deserts, the practice has lost much

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM June–July 2015

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mind + body of its “hippie-dippy” connotation. Even Johns Hopkins University is chiming in, with researchers there having recently released a review of 47 trials that suggested consistent meditation could have a lasting impact on psychological stressors such as anxiety, depression and even pain.

Unlike many healthful living crazes, this trend is easily achievable for any fitness level and is as well suited for the young as it is for the young at heart. Both Beck and McQuaid agreed that having rambunctious or energetic youth decompress through meditation could be a holistic solution to a cognitive issue.

While everyone’s path toward “successful” meditation is unique, there are a few standard steps you can take to get started.

First, find a quiet, clean, calm space. This can just as easily be your living room as one of the Emerald Coast’s beautiful meditation and yoga studios — it’s all about where you’re most comfortable, emotionally and fiscally. Position your body so you are both content and alert. Whether that means reclining entirely or sitting up cross-legged, it’s entirely up to you.

If focusing on inhaling and exhaling leaves your mind wandering, try instead — Laurie Beck, concentrating on a single owner of Santa Rosa word — repeating it, and only it, over and over in Beach-based Pilates your mind. by the Sea “Others focus on a mantra, a word,” Beck said.

“That’s all they keep. Every time a message tries to come in, you don’t allow it.”

It’s a technique she’s used many times before. Beck’s word? “Peace.” She admits, though, that any positive affirmation will do nicely.

Repetition is key to finding focus and emotional relief through meditation. Incorporating the practice into your daily routine might not be feasible for some, but allotting 10 minutes per day can offer an otherwise hectic schedule a brief respite and have a lasting effect on the way one processes stress, a contributing factor to many serious medical conditions.

“Just sit down and focus,” instructed McQuaid, also a published wellness author through her book “Uncommon Faith.” “The first stages of meditation are just to be able to focus.” ec

‘‘

PHOTO BY JACQUELINE WARD IMAGES

Meditation, to me, is putting the mind and the body in a calm place. It’s learning how to be quiet and allow whatever needs to come in to come in, but also to release what does not serve you.”

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flavor

Watermelon SEEDED, SEEDLESS OR ON THE ROCKS: JUICY NEW WAYS TO ENJOY AN AMERICAN CLASSIC

BY SHELBY BOUCK

o

n average, Americans eat 15 pounds of watermelon every year. Since a typical watermelon yields 14 pounds of edible fruit, that’s over one entire watermelon’s worth of squishy sweetness per person per annum — and if the popularity of Independence Day watermelon-eating contests is any indication, most of that might be consumed in July.

Why does watermelon appeal to so many people? Its naturally chilly, sweet taste makes it a great coolingdown alternative to sugary soda. Plus, let’s be honest: Spitting the seeds is just plain old fun.

As completely as the United States has absorbed it into its culture, watermelon is far from a uniquely American fruit. It is thought to have originated in the Kalahari Desert in the southern part of Africa.

The earliest recorded watermelon crop was harvested in Egypt in approximately 3,000 B.C., according to hieroglyphic records on the walls of ancient structures.

Egyptians sometimes buried their pharaohs with a watermelon to nourish them in the afterlife.

While most Americans associate watermelon with Independence Day, people in Iran, Afghanistan and other countries in Central Asia make a point to eat it on Yalda, a festival marking the longest night of the year that goes back to the Persian empire. According to tradition, if you eat watermelon on Yalda, you will never be thirsty during the coming summer — an important consideration for people in one of the driest areas of the world.

Today, the United States ranks fifth in global watermelon production, with Florida as the most watermelonproductive state.

Stephanie Barlow of the National Watermelon Promotion Board credits Florida’s high melon output to its abundant sunshine.

“Water is not an issue for us as it is in other parts of the country,” said Barlow, whose office is based in Winter Springs, Florida, “and we also get two harvests, because of the warm weather.”

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Watermelon Granita Whole Foods Market, INGREDIENTS:

» 8 cups seedless watermelon

chunks, divided

» 2 tablespoons honey » 2 tablespoons

lime juice

» 1 /4 cup chopped fresh mint or

basil (optional)

INSTRUCTIONS

Place half of watermelon in a food processor and process until smooth. Pour into a 9x13-inch glass baking dish. Add remaining watermelon to the processor along with honey and lime juice and process until smooth. Pour into the baking dish, stir until combined, and place uncovered in the freezer. Freeze until ice begins to form around edges of pan, about 30 minutes. Rake with a fork to break up large ice clumps; return to freezer; continue stirring about every 30 minutes until all liquid is crystalized, about 3 hours total.

Using a large fork, flake granita into bowls or into an airtight container to freeze up to 1 week.

Serve garnished with mint or basil, if desired.

Pictured on the cover

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM June–July 2015

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flavor

Watermelon Strawberry Mint Salsa (National Watermelon Promotion Board) INGREDIENTS

» 1 cup diced watermelon (seeds removed) » ¾ cup diced strawberries » ¼ cup diced red onion » 2 tablespoons chopped fresh mint leaves » 2 tablespoons diced, seeded jalapeño chili » 1 tablespoon lime juice » 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to taste) INSTRUCTIONS

Gently stir together all ingredients in a bowl. Let stand to blend flavors, about 1 hour. Serve with Caribbean or jerk-seasoned grilled items or with pretzels.

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Watermelon Gazpacho

National Watermelon Promotion Board Serves 4 INGREDIENTS

» 5 cups chopped

seedless watermelon

» ½ cup chopped yellow onion » ½ cup chopped green pepper » ½ to 1 teaspoon salt » ¼ teaspoon pepper » 1 teaspoon cumin » ¼ teaspoon chili powder » ½ cup chopped cilantro » 2 teaspoons chopped jalapeno » 1 tablespoon lime juice » 1 cup finely chopped seedless

watermelon, reserved for garnish

» ½ to 1 cup finely diced avocado,

reserved (optional)

INSTRUCTIONS

Puree the first 10 ingredients in a blender until smooth. Adjust the seasonings as needed. Chill in the fridge for at least 1 hour. Stir in the finely chopped watermelon and avocado at serving time.

OH, WHAT A MELON

PHOTOS COURTESY OF WATERMELON PROMOTION BOARD

Celebrating Watermelon While most watermelon-growing states can harvest only in May or June, our famous Florida heat allows us to harvest not only in the typical peak season but also from October through December.

Experimentation with watermelon flavor is nothing new: The first cookbook published in the United States included a recipe for watermelon-rind pickles, and that was in 1776. However, as time has gone on, culinary technique has gotten more and more creative.

Local chef John Jacob, of Vinti’j Wine

Boutique in Miramar Beach, suggests some unexpected ways to enjoy this summer fruit.

“I find that watermelon paired with a spice such as chipotle, cayenne or rooster sauce makes for a nice contrast of heat to sweet,” he said.

Jacob adds that watermelon can be paired with most meats to add sweetness to savory dishes.

“Perhaps not beef,” he admits, “but a pork tenderloin or quail with properly spiced melon would be great.”

You know summer has arrived when it’s time for the Panhandle Watermelon Festival. This year’s 59th annual fete is set for June 26-27 at various spots in Chipley, Florida.

Enjoy two days of free family-friendly fun filled with live music, grilled hamburgers and hotdogs, a Hot Trot Run, arts and crafts, a parade and plenty of watermelon slices — while supplies last! For more information, visit panhandlewatermelon.com.

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM June–July 2015

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a taste for ...

The Sunshine Vitamin

SOURCE: HEALTHLINE.COM

You’d think that by living in the Sunshine State, getting the recommended daily dose of vitamin D — often called the sunshine vitamin, because it is produced in your skin in response to sunlight — would be a breeze.

But many of us do not “drink up” as much as we should of this vital vitamin, which can affect as many as 2,000 genes in the body.

If your body doesn’t get enough vitamin D, you’re at risk of developing bone abnormalities such as osteomalacia (soft bones) or osteoporosis (fragile bones), and also at risk for ailments as banal as the flu and as serious as heart disease.

Sardines, salmon and shrimp are foods that contain vitamin D naturally, while other foods such as milk, yogurt, cereal and orange juice are fortified with it, meaning the vitamin is added.

Your body produces vitamin D naturally through direct exposure to sunlight. A little can go a long way: Just 10 minutes a day of midday sun exposure is plenty, especially if you’re fair-skinned.

Even if you are lucky enough to live in a sunny location such as the Emerald Coast, it can sometimes be hard to get enough vitamin D each day through sun exposure and food alone, so taking vitamin D supplements can help.

The National Institutes of Health recommends getting vitamin D from all three of these sources. So eat up and drink up (both in and outdoors) to keep healthy.

— Zandra Wolfgram

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flavor

Watermelon can also make for a refreshing summer party drink. One local option is Panama City Beach Winery’s watermelon wine, a summery, invigorating take on citrus wine. Great for picnics and barbecues, you can pick up a bottle from the winery or order one online at pcbwinery.com.

Brent Sutton, general manager of The Craft Bar in Destin, concocts a refreshing watermelon cocktail and offers some suggestions for mixologists who want to get creative at home.

“Fresh watermelon goes well with clear liquors — vodka, gin,” he explained. “We mix it with herbs like mint and basil. Gin’s a little more aromatic, so you’ll get a little less of the watermelon. The goal with vodka, of course, is purity, so if you want more of the watermelon flavor, you’ll want to mix it with vodka.”

Sutton adds that there are some delicious watermelonflavored liquors on the market as well. Three Olives Watermelon Vodka and new Bacardi Grand Melon Rum are his top recommendations.

Of course, the most nutrient-rich way to enjoy your watermelon is raw. Every chunk of fresh watermelon is filled with vitamins A, B6 and C, as well as the cancerpreventing antioxidant lycopene. In addition, this versatile fruit can help with hydration, as it clocks in at 92 percent water on average. ec

Watermelon-Strawberry Lime Cooler Stronger Together Co-op INGREDIENTS

» 1 cup frozen strawberries » 4 cups cubed watermelon, seeds removed » 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice » m int sprigs

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INSTRUCTIONS

In a blender, combine the watermelon and strawberries.

Add the lime juice and puree. Serve immediately with mint sprigs for garnish.

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dining Alys Beach

GEORGE’S AT ALYS BEACH American. Seafood, burgers and sandwiches at the perfect beachy-casual spot. Open daily 11 a.m.–3 p.m. and 5–9 p.m. 30 Castle Harbour Dr., 850-641-0017. $$ L D

Blue Mountain Beach

GRECIAN GARDENS RESTAURANT Mediterranean. Traditional Greek cuisine served in an open-air atmosphere perfect for special occasions or parties. Open daily 11 a.m.–9 p.m.

3375 W. Hwy. 30A, 850-267-3011. $$ L D

The Key The restaurants that appear in this guide are included as a service to readers and not as recommendations of the EC Magazine editorial department, except where noted. ★ B L D

Best of the Emerald Coast 2014 Winner Breakfast Lunch Dinner Outdoor Dining Live Music

$ $$

Inexpensive Moderately Expensive $$$ Expensive

MARIE'S BISTRO & BAR Mediterranean. Enjoy made-to-order seafood, steak, pasta as well as sushi in a casual atmosphere. Dine in, carry out, drive through and catering. Full bar. Serving lunch 11 a.m.–2 p.m., Tues–Fri and dinner at 5 p.m. Tues–Sun. 2260 W. County Highway 30A, 850-278-6856. $$ L D

rbor

...on the ha

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BLUE MOUNTAIN BEACH CREAMERY Ice Cream. Homemade ice cream, sorbet and frozen yogurt treats. Open daily 10 a.m.–10 p.m. Cash only. 2129 S. County Highway 83, 850-278-6849. $$

Destin

AJ’S SEAFOOD & OYSTER BAR ★ Seafood. Choose from fresh local seafood, sandwiches, pasta, chicken or specialty dishes like the oysters Eugene or Rockefeller. Open daily 11 a.m.

116 E. Hwy. 98, 850-837-1913. $$ L D ANOTHER BROKEN EGG CAFÉ ★ Breakfast. Breakfast all day, plus sandwiches, patty melts, specials, soups, salads and desserts. Open daily 7 a.m.–2 p.m. Closed Mondays.

(Open Memorial and Labor days.) 979 E. Hwy. 98, Suite F, 850-650-0499. $ B BOATHOUSE OYSTER BAR Seafood. Discover Destin’s best-kept secret. Come here for ice cold beer, raw oysters, award-winning gumbo and a great view of the Destin Harbor, and leave with a signature T-shirt from the gift shop. Open daily 11 a.m.–2 a.m. 288 B Harbor Blvd., 850-837-3645. L D BOSHAMPS SEAFOOD & OYSTER HOUSE ★ Seafood. Located on the beautiful Destin Harbor, this seafood spot will spoil you with spectacular sunsets, sensational Gulf-to-table Southern cuisine (including award-winning oysters!) and family-friendly service all in a fun, relaxed, casual atmosphere. Open daily at 11 a.m. 414 Harbor Blvd., Destin, 850-424-7406. $$ L D BROTULA’S SEAFOOD HOUSE & STEAMER Seafood/American. Fresh steamed and boiled seafood dishes featuring local gulf fish and farm fresh produce. Craft cocktails, 12 Beers on Tap, creative wine list. Open daily for lunch, dinner and Sunday Brunch. Destin Harbor, 850-460-8900 $$$ B CALLAHAN’S RESTAURANT & DELI ★ American. Voted Best Locally Owned Restaurant 2008–2014, Callahan’s serves up great sandwiches, seafood specials and prime rib. Mon–Sat 10 a.m.–10 p.m. 791 Harbor Blvd., 850-837-6328. $ L D

BEST SEAFOOD RESTAURANT 2010-2014 BEST GUMBO 2014 BEST GROUPER SANDWICH 2013

Outdoor Seating Full Bar Lunch menu available 11AM-3PM Open at 11AM • Closing hours vary by season 202 Harbor Blvd., Destin • 837-7525

Gum

ts bo • Sandwiches • Steamed Seafoo d • Fried Seafood Baske

...overlooking Crab Island

CRAB ISLAND CANTINA Mexican. Latin-inspired Mexican cuisine in a casual waterfront dining atmosphere offering the best views of Destin Harbor. Mon–Thu 11 a.m.– 10 p.m., Fri–Sat 11 a.m.–11 p.m., Sun 11 a.m.–9 p.m. 2 Harbor Blvd., 850-424-7417. $$ L D DESTIN ICE SEAFOOD MARKET & DELI ★ Gourmet Takeout. Everything you need for a fresh and delicious meal. Choose from fresh fish and seafood items, pastas, salads and side dishes, Buckhead meats, decadent deserts and an assortment of wines, cheeses, spices and more.

Open daily 8 a.m.–7 p.m. 663 Emerald Coast Pkwy., 850-837-8333. $$ L D DEWEY DESTIN’S HARBORSIDE ★ Seafood. One of Destin’s most popular restaurants serves up charm and award-winning seafood in a quaint house overlooking the scenic Destin Harbor. Open daily 11 a.m.–8 p.m. 202 Harbor Blvd., 850-837-7525. $$$ L D

Open 7 days a week • 11AM -‘Til 9 Calhoun Ave., Destin • 837-7575 BOATERS WELCOME! EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM June–July 2015

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dining DEWEY DESTIN SEAFOOD RESTAURANT & MARKET ★ Seafood. True local charm in an outdoor setting and some of the freshest seafood around. Open 11 a.m.– 8 p.m. 9 Calhoun Ave., 850-837-7575. $$ B L D GRAFFITI Italian. Traditional Italian favorites and house specialties like seafood pizza.

Mon–Thu 5–9 p.m., Fri–Sat 5–10 p.m. 707 E. Hwy. 98, 850-654-2764. $$ D

P R I M E

S T E A K S

&

S E A F O O D

HARBOR DOCKS ★ American. A local’s favorite, this family-owned and operated surf-andturf restaurant overlooking the Destin Harbor offers breakfast, lunch and dinner and the best sushi on the Emerald Coast. Open daily 5 a.m.–11 p.m.

538 E. Hwy. 98, 850-837-2506. $$ B L D HARRY T’S ★ Seafood. Lounge on the beautiful patio and watch the passing boats as you enjoy an endless variety of delicious dishes. Mon–Thu 11 a.m.–10 p.m., Fri–Sat 11 a.m.–11 p.m., Sun 10 a.m.–10 p.m. 46 Harbor Blvd., 850-654-4800. $$ B L D JACKACUDA’S SEAFOOD & SUSHI Seafood. Fresh seafood, sushi, salad, sandwiches and more served in a casual atmosphere overlooking the Destin harbor. Enjoy live music and Sunday brunch. Open daily from 11 a.m. Sunday brunch at 10 a.m. 56 Harbor Blvd, HarborWalk Village. 850-424-3507. $$ L D JIM ’N NICK’S BAR-B-Q ★ Barbecue. Southern smokehouse barbecue. Beer and wine. Open daily 11 a.m. 14073 Emerald Coast Pkwy., 850-351-1991. $ L D JOHNNY O’QUIGLEY’S American. Award-winning steak, seafood and barbecue in one of Destin’s favorite sports bars. Mon–Thu 11 a.m.–midnight, Fri–Sun 11 a.m.–1 a.m, Double Happy Hour Mon–Fri 3–6 p.m. and 10 p.m.–close. 34940 Emerald Coast Pkwy., 850-837-1015. $ L D MARGARITAVILLE American. Escape to Jimmy Buffet’s Margaritaville for island-inspired food, fun and the “it’s five o’clock somewhere” mentality. Open daily from 11 a.m.

76 Harbor Blvd., HarborWalk Village. 850-460-7700. $$ L D

SAVOR THE NIGHT

MARINA CAFÉ American. Gourmet pizzas, Creole and American cuisine. Open daily 5–10 p.m. 404 E. Hwy. 98, 850-837-7960. $$ D

Valet the car. Sip the wine. Seize the steak. At Seagar’s, our seasonal menu of Prime steak and fresh, local seafood, selection of craft cocktails and more than 600 wines, provides all the elements for an indulgent, memorable experience. The time to enjoy is now.

R E SE R VAT I ON S

8 5 0 - 6 2 2-1 5 0 0 Located at Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa 4000 Sandestin Blvd. South, Destin, FL 32550 www.Seagars.com | Contact@Seagars.com

MIMMO’S RISTORANTE ITALIANO Italian. Mimmo’s is the new hot spot in Destin for authentic Italian dishes bursting with flavor and color. Enjoy happy hour at the full bar serving authentic Italian cocktails. Catering available. Open Mon–Fri 11 a.m–10 p.m., Sat–Sun 5–10 p.m. 979 Highway 98, Suite 5, 850-460-7353. $$ L D OSAKA ★ Japanese. Known for its sushi but serves a variety of dishes, including chicken, steak and seafood. Lunch 11 a.m.–2:30 p.m., Dinner 5–10:30 p.m.

34845 Emerald Coast Pkwy., 850-650-4688 or 850-650-4689. $$ L D PEPITO’S ★ Mexican. Voted Best Mexican on the Emerald Coast, locals love Pepito’s for its authentic Mexican cuisine and mouthwatering margaritas. Happy Hour specials all day Mondays, including small rocks margaritas and all beer and well drinks for $1.99. Open daily 11 a.m.–10 p.m. 757 E. Hwy. 98, 850-650-7734. $$ L D RUTH’S CHRIS STEAK HOUSE ★ Steak and Seafood. New Orleans-inspired appetizers, desserts and award-winning wines. Mon–Sat 5:30–10 p.m., Sun 5:30–9 p.m. Silver Shells Resort. 1500 Emerald Coast Pkwy., 850-337-5108. $$$ D SARAH K’S GOURMET Gourmet Takeout. Chef-crafted, ready-to-heat cuisine. Jumbo lump crab cakes and fresh chicken salad are the house specialties. Open at 11 a.m.

34940 Hwy. 98, 850-269-0044. $ L D TUSCANY ITALIAN BISTRO Italian. Northern Italian cuisine featuring choice meats, fresh seafood and garden vegetables. Tues–Sun 4 p.m.–close. 36178 Emerald Coast Pkwy., 850-650-2451. $$ D

Fort Walton Beach

AEGEAN RESTAURANT ★ Greek. Savor the flavors of the Mediterranean at this authentic Greek restaurant. Mon–Sat 10:30 a.m.–8:30 p.m. 1259 Eglin Pkwy., Shalimar, 850-613-6120. $$ L D 134 June–July 2015 Seagars_3.5x10_Emerald.indd 2

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TaSTe modern mexican cuiSine

Sip the finest margarita Savor fresh seafood, enchiladas and more with sauces made from scratch Join us for drinks, dinner, lunch or Sunday brunch

Grand Boulevard Sandestin 850.654.5649 cantinalaredo.com

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ADVERTORIAL

Restaurant Spotlight

its customers Mama Clemenza's presents with all that is Italian: a

love for food and people. From the moment you step through the door, Mama Clemenza’s wants you to feel like you have been transported to a family restaurant on the streets of Europe. The European influences can be seen in the décor, felt through the warmth of the staff and tasted in the cooking.

FIVE FOR FIVE Owner Tammy Damiano shares her restaurant’s signature dishes.

1

Eggs Benedict Not the traditional — this one includes prosciutto over Yorkshire pudding

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Lemon Curd Pancakes Three pancakes served with lemon curd cream 3

MAMA CLEMENZA’S HAS BEEN serving up breakfast and brunch since opening in 2012. The original location is in Fort Walton Beach at Uptown Station, and the newest location just opened at the Holiday Plaza in Miramar Beach.

Stop into either location for a full brunch spread with an assortment of fine European dishes, many of which are old family recipes.

Whether you choose to eat inside or outside, Mama’s is a friendly and inviting atmosphere sure to make you feel at home while you eat. An eclectic Italian flare is everywhere you look, and the restaurant is always filled with the amazing smells of great food.

They measure their success through the loyal clientele that make Mama Clemenza’s a part of their

weekly activities, as well as the wide assortment of awards and accolades they have received from local, state and national publications.

“Mama Clemenza’s continues a legacy of great food passed down from generations where the sounds and smells take you back to your grandmother’s kitchen when life was peaceful and much simpler,” said Damiano.

HOLIDAY PLAZA 12273 EMERALD COAST PARKWAY | 844.246.MAMA (TOLL FREE) 136 June–July 2015

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Date Nut Bread Warm and fresh from the oven 5

Champagne, Mimosas & Bellinis Your brunch wouldn’t be complete without a breakfast beverage.

UPTOWN STATION 75 EGLIN PARKWAY | 850.243.0707

PHOTO BY MATT BURKE

TAMMY DAMIANO, OWNER

Mediterranean Egg White Omelet Fresh tomatoes, feta cheese and spinach served with a croissant

dining BENJARONG THAI CUISINE & BBQ Thai and Barbecue. Barbecue, chicken, ribs, steak and spicy Thai food. Lunch and dinner Mon–Sat 11 a.m.–9 p.m. 251 Mary Esther Blvd., 850-362-0290. $$ L D THE BLACK PEARL Steak and Seafood. Dig into some coconut shrimp and a juicy steak while enjoying a lovely view of the Gulf. Located in The Boardwalk on Okaloosa Island. Open daily 4 p.m. 1450 Miracle Strip Pkwy., 850-833-3016. $$ D BON APPETIT FRENCH BAKERY & CAFÉ ★ French. Delicious made from scratch French pastries, croissants and crusty breads. Soup, salads and sandwiches served 7:30 a.m.–5:30 p.m.

Mon–Fri, Sat 7:30 a.m.–2 p.m. Closed Sun. 420 Mary Esther Cutoff.

850-244-2848.

BUFFALO’S REEF FAMOUS WINGS ★ American. This restaurant is famous for hot wings and cold beer.

Ask about the daily specials. Tue–Sat open at 10:30 a.m., Sun open at noon. 116 Eglin Pkwy., 850-243-9463. $ L D CLEMENZA’S UPTOWN ★ Italian. Award-winning classic Italian cuisine and wood-fired pizza.

Parties, special events and private dining. Full-service bar and espresso bar. Open Mon-Fri for lunch, Mon-Sat for dinner. 75 Eglin Pkwy. 850-243-0707. $$ B L D HELEN BACK Pizza. The world’s finest hand-tossed pizza and cold beer in a sports bar atmosphere. Locations in Pensacola, Navarre, Crestview and Valparaiso. Open daily 11 a.m.–4 a.m. 114 Amberjack Dr., 850-796-1451. $LD MAGNOLIA GRILL Steak, Seafood and Italian. Steak, seafood, pasta, soups, salads and desserts. Lunch Mon–Fri 11 a.m.–2 p.m. Dinner Mon–Sat, open at 5 p.m.

Closed Sun. 157 SE Brooks St., 850-302-0266. $$ L D MAMA CLEMENZA’S EUROPEAN BREAKFAST ★ European. This award-winning breakfast is culinary perfection. Enjoy a diverse menu of authentic Old World family recipes. Sat 8 a.m.–noon, Sun 8 a.m.–1 p.m. Clemenza’s Uptown, 75 Eglin Pkwy. 850-243-0707. $$ B PANDORA’S Steak and Seafood. Early evening specials weekdays 5–6 p.m. Happy Hour weekdays 5–7 p.m. Weekdays 5–10 p.m. Weekends 5–11 p.m., 1226 Santa Rosa Blvd., 850-244-8669. $$$ D PRANZO ITALIAN RISTORANTE Italian. The Montalto family has been serving classic and contemporary Italian cuisine in Fort Walton Beach for nearly 30 years.

Dinner Mon–Sat, 5 p.m. 1222 Santa Rosa Blvd., 850-244-9955. $ D SEALAND Steak and Seafood. Serving American cuisine as well as Thai offerings in a homey atmosphere. Lunch Sun 11 a.m. until. Dinner Tues–Sat from 4:30 p.m. 47 SE Miracle Strip Pkwy., 850-244-0044. $$$ B D

Grayton Beach

ANOTHER BROKEN EGG CAFÉ ★ Breakfast. Breakfast all day, plus sandwiches, patty melts, specials, soups, salads and desserts. Open 7:30 a.m.–2 p.m. Closed Mondays. (Open Memorial and Labor days.) 51 Grayton Uptown Cir., 850-231-7835. $ B PANDORA’S Steak and Seafood. Warm, traditional steakhouse with early evening specials. Weekdays 5–10 p.m. Weekends 5–11 p.m. 63 DeFuniak St., 850-231-4102. $$ D PICOLO’S RESTAURANT Seafood. Dine on delicious fresh seafood while listening to live music. Open daily 11 a.m.–3 p.m. and 5–10 p.m. 70 Hotz Ave., 850-231-1008. $$ L D RED BAR ★ American. A favorite among locals, visitors and celebrities and a mustvisit when in Grayton Beach. Kick back on the funky furniture and listen to live music while enjoying great food and cocktails — especially the award-winning Bloody Mary. Breakfast 7–10:30 a.m., Lunch 11 a.m.–3 p.m., Dinner 5–10 p.m. Bar open 11 a.m.–11 p.m., Fri–Sat 11 a.m.–midnight. Cash or check only, no credit cards. 70 Hotz Ave., 850-231-1008. $$ B L D

Magnolia Grill Fort Walton Beach Tom & Peggy Rice, Proprietors 157 Brooks Street SE Fort Walton Beach, FL 32548 850.302.0266 • www.magnoliagrillfwb.com Bridal Luncheons • Rehearsal Dinners • Unique Receptions

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dining TRATTORIA BORAGO Italian. Enjoy a balsamic-laced pork tenderloin or pan-seared grouper from the open kitchen. Open 6 p.m. daily. 80 E. Hwy. 30A, Grayton Beach, 850-231-9167. $$ D

Miramar Beach

AEGEAN RESTAURANT ★ Greek. Sip an ouzo at the beautiful stone bar before savoring the flavors of the Mediterranean at this authentic Greek restaurant. Breakfast 8–11 a.m., Lunch 11 a.m.–4 p.m., Dinner 4–9 p.m. 11225 Emerald Coast Pkwy., 850-460-2728. $$ B L D ANOTHER BROKEN EGG CAFÉ ★ Breakfast. Award-winning breakfast all day, plus sandwiches, patty melts, specials, soups, salads and desserts. Open daily from 7 a.m.–3 p.m. Two Sandestin locations: On the Bay (next to the LeCiel at Sandestin) and in The Village of Baytowne Wharf at Sandestin, 850-622-2050. $ B (in the Village) BIJOUX RESTAURANT & SPIRITS ★ Steak and Seafood. Fine dining coastal cuisine with a New Orleans flair, offering the freshest Gulf seafood, prime steaks and an extensive award-winning wine list. Indoor, outdoor and private dining available.

Open daily, 4–10 p.m. The Market Shops, 9375 Emerald Coast Pkwy West, Suite 22, Miramar Beach. 850-622-0760. $$$ D

to freshly-made premium ice cream AND

CANTINA LAREDO ★ Mexican. Boasting a contemporary décor and fiery flavor, the new addition to Grand Boulevard offers gourmet twists on Mexican favorites.

Save room for dessert, and check out the Sunday brunch. Sun–Thu 11 a.m.– 10 p.m., Fri–Sat 11 a.m.–11 p.m. 585 Grand Blvd., 850-654-5649. $$ B L D Be

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4655 Gulfstarr Drive, Destin | 850-269-2920 | brusters.com

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FAT CLEMENZA’S ★ Italian. Feel like part of the family as you enjoy homemade classical Italian cuisine. Lunch Mon–Fri 11 a.m.–2 p.m. Dinner Mon–Wed 5–9:30 p.m., Thu–Sat 5–10 p.m. Holiday Plaza/Hwy. 98, 850-650-5980. $$ L D FLEMING’S PRIME STEAKHOUSE & WINE BAR ★ Steak. This award-winning restaurant offers prime steaks, chops, chicken, seafood, fresh salads and a variety of unique sides and desserts served in a comfortable but elegant atmosphere. Featuring 100 wines by the glass. Open Mon–Thu 5–10 p.m., Fri–Sat 5–11 p.m., Sun 4–9 p.m.

600 Grand Blvd., 850-269-0830. $$ D

2008 - Best Italian 2009 - Best Pizza 2010 - Best Pizza & Best Chef 2011 - Best Pizza, Best Italian & Best Chef 2012 - Best Italian 2013 - Best Pizza & Best Walton Restaurant 2014 - Best Pizza, Best Walton Restaurant & Best Chef

JOHN WEHNER’S VILLAGE DOOR BAYFRONT RESTAURANT & NIGHTCLUB ★ American. Rock your evening with dinner and dancing on the best dance floor on the Emerald Coast. Village Door Smokehouse with seating on deck overlooking the bay serving barbecue and seafood daily 5–9 p.m. The Village of Baytowne Wharf, 126 Fisherman’s Cove.

850-502-4590. $ D

The original, award-winning wood-fired pizza and classical Italian cuisine

MARINA BAR AND GRILL American. Seafood, po-boys, burgers, salads overlooking the Baytowne Marina and Choctawhatchee Bay. You catch ’em we cook ’em service. Open daily 11 a.m.–7 p.m., Breakfast Sat–Sun 8–11 a.m. Kitchen closed Mon–Tue. Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort, 9300 Emerald Coast Pkwy. W., 850-267-7778. $ B L D MARLIN GRILL ★ Steak and Seafood. Fresh seafood, steaks, salads and appetizers served inside or outside. Open nightly at 5 p.m. Village of Baytowne Wharf, 850-351-1990. $$$ L D P.F. CHANG’S CHINA BISTRO ★ Asian. Sample crunchy lettuce wraps or Chinese favorites like Kung Pao Chicken in a chic atmosphere. Open Sun–Thu 11 a.m.–10 p.m., Fri–Sat 11 a.m.–11 p.m. 10640 Grand Blvd., 850-269-1806. $$ L D PEPITO’S ★ Mexican. Voted Best Mexican on the Emerald Coast. Authentic Mexican cuisine, delicious margaritas and weekly specials. Open daily 11 a.m.–10 p.m. 11225 Hwy 98, 850-269-7788. $$ L D

Lunch M–F 11–2 · Dinner M–Sat 5–9 · 850.650.5980 12273 US Hwy 98, Miramar Beach · fatclemenzas.com 138 June–July 2015

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POPPY’S SEAFOOD FACTORY Seafood. Enjoy fresh seafood, steak and poultry dishes with a view of the bay. Open 11 a.m.–9 p.m. daily. Village of Baytowne Wharf, 850-351-1996. $$$ L D ROYAL ORCHID ★ Thai. Escape to Thailand at this authentic Thai restaurant. Sink into a

FRESH SEAFOOD?

One of the first questions people ask when they visit our area is “How can we be sure we’re getting fresh seafood?”

That’s an excellent question. There is a good chance that the seafood you will be offered traveled farther than you did. In the state of Florida, even though we are surrounded by water, more than 90% of the seafood sold this year will be imported from other countries.

Throughout the United States, the huge majority of seafood is imported.

Most of it is mislabeled. Frozen seafood is sold as “fresh” and imported seafood is sold as “local.” According to Oceana, 93% of fish sold as red snapper is actually some other species. 57% of tuna sold at sushi bars throughout the country is not tuna. Most of the tilapia served in this country comes from Viet Nam and Thailand and much of it is farmed in waters with sewage run-off and the source of feed is pig feces.

Harbor Docks has been selling fish through its wholesale market since 1981. We sell to markets across the United States and Canada. We also sell to select restaurants along the Gulf Coast. Harbor Docks contracts with over 100 commercial boats to insure that we have an adequate supply of fresh fish.

We invite you to dine at our restaurants – Harbor Docks, in the heart of Destin, and Camille’s, overlooking the Gulf in Crystal Beach. But we’d also encourage you to try any of the wonderful, independent, local restaurants in our area that are committed to serving Florida seafood. We know who they are, because we sell them their fish.

check our website to find out which restaurants sell certified Gulf-to-Table fish from harbor Docks Seafood market.

DES TIN , FL | 850. 837. 2506 | h a r b o r D o c k S .co m S E A F O O D & C O C K TA I L S

Snapper and Tuna stats: http://oceana.org/en/news-media/publications/reports/oceana-study-reveals-seafood-fraud-nationwide Imported seafood stat: http://www.fishwatch.gov/farmed_seafood/outside_the_us.htm Tilapia/pig feces: http://www.bloomberg.com/news/2012-10-11/asian-seafood-raised-on-pig-feces-approved-for-u-s-consumers.html

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dining traditional sunken table surrounded by pillows or dine American style at a table or booth. Thu–Tue 11 a.m.–9:30 p.m. Closed Wed. 11275 Emerald Coast Pkwy., 850-650-2555. $$ L D SEAGAR’S PRIME STEAKS AND SEAFOOD ★ Steak and Seafood. Premium steak, fresh seafood and caviar. Open 6 p.m. daily. Hilton Sandestin. 4000 S. Sandestin Blvd., 850-622-1500. $$$ D THE BEACH HOUSE American. Come here for casual beach front dining. Enjoy a cocktail at the pool bar and live music (in season). Private events available pool side and in our Sky Room. Open daily 11 a.m.–10 p.m. 4009 S. Sandestin Blvd.

850-267-4800. $$ L D TOMMY BAHAMA’S RESTAURANT & BAR Caribbean. Get a taste of the islands with jerk spices, fresh fish and the best desserts on the coast as voted by readers of Emerald Coast Magazine. Open Sun–Thu 11 a.m.–11 p.m. Fri–Sat 11 a.m.–midnight.

525 Grand Blvd., 850-654-1743. $$ L D

find us on

VIN’TIJ WINE BOUTIQUE & BISTRO American. Traditional favorites and unique house dishes. Open daily 11 a.m.–midnight. 10859 W. Emerald Coast Pkwy., Suite 103, 850-650-9820. $ L D

Niceville/Valparaiso

COMPASS ROSE RESTAURANT AND BAR Caribbean. Waterfront dining overlooking Tom’s Bayou. The cuisine is coastal with a Caribbean-West Indies flair. Enjoy Happy Hour, daily specials and Sunday brunch. Tue–Thur 11 a.m.–9 p.m.,Fri 11 a.m.–10 p.m., Sat 4–10 p.m., Sun 10 a.m.–3 p.m. 303 Glen Ave., 850-389-2125. $$ L D ONE 20 A MODERN BISTRO American. Modern American cuisine specializing in seafood, steaks and local fresh produce. Lunch Tue–Fri 11 a.m.–3 p.m., Dinner Tue–Sat 5–9 p.m., Brunch Sun 11 a.m.–3 p.m. Closed Monday. 120 Partin Drive N., Niceville, 850-729-2120. $$ B L D PEPITO’S ★ Mexican. Locals love the authentic Mexican cuisine, margaritas and all-day Monday Happy Hour special. Open daily 11 a.m.–10 p.m.

4585 E. Hwy 20, Suite 100, Niceville, 850-279-4949. $$ L D TRADEWINDS Italian. A cozy favorite among locals serving heaping portions from old family recipes. Enjoy a number of pasta variations as well as seafood, chicken, veal, steak and thin crust pizza. Expansive wine and beer list.

Reservations required. Open Tue–Sat 5 p.m. 205 Government St., 850-678-8299. $$ D

Santa Rosa Beach

BASMATI’S ASIAN CUISINE & SUSHI Asian. Asian dishes and full sushi bar. Open 4 p.m. daily. 3295 W. Hwy. 30A, 850-267-3028. $$ D CAFÉ BOLO ★ American. Gourmet coffee, sandwiches, soups, pastries and cakes on beautiful Scenic 30A. Open daily from 7 a.m. 4368 County Road 30A, 850-267-2060. $ B L CAFÉ TANGO American. Seafood, poultry and pasta served with specialty sauces.Homemade desserts. Open Tue–Sun 5–10 p.m. 14 Vicki St., 850-267-0054. $$$ D

BEST WINGS 2010–2014

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Ft. Walton Beach’s Favorite Wings Since 1990!

FISH OUT OF WATER RESTAURANT Continental. Southern coastal cuisine with an Asian flair: tuna, crab cakes, shrimp and scallops. 5:30–10 p.m. daily. Located in the WaterColor Inn, 850-534-5050. $$$ D LOUIS LOUIS American. The only thing that isn’t over the top at Louis Louis is the menu pricing. The Moulin Rouge-inspired interior décor is outrageously wonderful. Dine outside or in. The menu has six tasty items, including crab cakes, panned chicken, blackened fish and a few pastas. Mon– Sun 5–10 p.m. 35 Mussett Bayou Rd., 850-267-1500. $ D

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ADVERTORIAL

Dominic Damiano. Fat Clemenza's chefyi

Chef/Owner Dominic Damiano prides himself in staying true to his Italian heritage through the dishes he serves up at Fat Clemenza’s Brick-Oven Pizzeria. When you step through the door, he wants you to experience Italian food in a neighborhood environment.

HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR FOOD? Classic Italian. We feature many products from Italy including tomatoes, pasta, olive oils, flour and sausage. Like any true Italian our foods are prepared under a strict guideline because quality and consistency are very important to us.

WHAT MADE YOU WANT TO BE A CHEF? I wanted to follow my Italian cultural heritage. Food has always been a part of my life. When I moved here there was a lack of great quality local Italian restaurants. I grew up in a very ethnic Italian neighborhood, so I wanted to make that impact here through my food. I’ve been a restaurant owner now for 9 years.

WHO INFLUENCES/INSPIRES YOUR COOKING? Marcella Hazan who wrote the essentials of classical Italian cooking. Her style really captures the essentials of Italian cooking. Besides Italy there are also influences from Chicago and New Orleans in my dishes. My grandparents lived in New Orleans, so we incorporate some of those influences in our cuisine with mild spices and different cooking techniques.

Head Executive Chef Clovis Da Silva, Owner Dominic Damiano and Master Pizza and Pastry Chef Alfonso Di Bonito

WHAT TRAINING HAVE YOU HAD? I’ve had the best training you could possibly have — two Italian grandmothers and an extended family of great Italian cooks. Growing up learning the secrets and tricks of recipes passed down from generation to generation is where my best dishes come from.

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dining THE MARIGNY ★ Creole. Enjoy authentic New Orleans-style cooking inside at linen covered tables or poolside on the covered patio lounge. Serving lunch and dinner daily 11 a.m.– 9 p.m. Enjoy the bar until midnight. 306 Bald Eagle Drive, 850-622-9101. $ L D VKI JAPANESE STEAK HOUSE & SUSHI BAR Asian. Using the freshest ingredients this Japanese gem serves up tasty Hibachi-style stir-fry meals of steak, seafood and chicken prepared at your table as well as artfully prepared sashimi and sushi rolls. Open daily. Lunch 11 a.m.–3 p.m., Dinner 4:30–9:30 p.m.

4552 Highway 98, Santa Rosa Beach, 850-267-2555. $$ L D VUE ON 30A American. Seafood, beef, poultry, lamb, veal, pastas, soups and bisques. Open Tues–Fri 11 a.m.–2:30 p.m., Wed–Sat 5–9 p.m.

4801 W. Hwy. 30A, 850-267-2305. $$ L D

Seaside & Seagrove Beach

ANGELINA’S PIZZA & PASTA Italian. Authentic homemade pizza pie and Italian dishes in a casual atmosphere. Lunch and dinner daily: 11 a.m.–9:30 p.m. 4005 E. Hwy. 30A, 850-231-2500. $ L D BUD & ALLEY’S RESTAURANT Seafood. A pioneer of farm- and sea-to-table dining serving fresh seafood, steak and vegetarian dishes. Famous bell ringing tradition with Happy Hour specials daily at sunset overlooking the Gulf. Open 11:30 a.m. Mon–Fri. Roof bar open 11:30 p.m.–2 a.m. in summer.

2236 E. Hwy. 30A, 850-231-5900. $$$ L D CAFÉ THIRTY-A Seafood. Seafood, lamb, duck, filet mignon and pizza. Open daily 5 p.m. 3899 E. Hwy. 30A, 850-231-2166. $$ D CRUSH American. Crush features an extensive wine menu, sushi and small plates. Open daily for lunch and dinner, noon–10 p.m. 25 Central Sq., 850-468-0703. $$ L D GREAT SOUTHERN CAFÉ Southern. Jim Shirley serves up Southern comfort food with a twist.

Open daily for breakfast 8–11 a.m., lunch 11 a.m.–4 p.m., dinner 4–11:30 p.m. 83 Central Sq., 850-231-7327. $$ B L D LA BOTANA Tapas. Small plates of Latin-inspired cuisine served in a casual but elegant atmosphere. Wine bar. Lunch and dinner Mon–Fri 4–11 p.m., Sat–Sun 11 a.m.–11 p.m. 4281 E. Hwy. 30A, 850-231-0716. $$ L D LA COCINA MEXICAN GRILL & BAR Mexican. Traditional Tex-Mex with a coastal twist. Open daily 11 a.m.– 3 p.m. and 5–9 p.m. Bar open until 10 p.m. 10343 E. Hwy. 30A, 850-231-4021. $$ L D OLD FLORIDA FISH HOUSE AND BAR Seafood. Rustic seafood restaurant featuring a new take on old seafood favorites. Full bar. Dinner daily 5 p.m. 5235 Hwy. 30A, 850-534-3045. $$ D

Private dining rooms and outdoor courtyard spaces accommodate anything from an intimate meal to an extravagant event. Our bar features an exclusive menu and drink specials. Looking for something even more unique? Our private wine room can be reserved for your next event.

Flowers by Milk & Honey, decor detailed to perfection, and an award winning chef to create the perfect wedding destination. Bijoux Catering can accommodate private parties, weddings and corporate events off-site or at the restaurant. From hors d’oeuvres to buffets and plated dinners, we customize each event to your specific needs.

(850) 622-0760 bijouxdestin.com

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V SEAGROVE RESTAURANT Seafood. Chef David Cunningham serves up fresh seafood and produce that is locally sourced in a resort casual atmosphere. Open Tue–Sat at 6 p.m. Closed Sundays. 2743 E. County Highway 30A, Seagrove, 850-468-0973. $$$ D SEAGROVE VILLAGE MARKET CAFÉ Steak and Seafood. Enjoy surf-and-turf and a glass of wine, then shop for gifts and souvenirs in the adjacent gift shop. Open 10:30 a.m.– 8:30 p.m. daily. 3004 S. County Rd. 395, 850-231-5736. $$ L D THE PIZZA BAR AT BUD & ALLEY’S Italian. Savor artisan cheese, fresh salads, antipasto dishes, homemade soups, seasonal vegetables, hearty pastas and homemade wood-fired Neapolitan pizza. Experience these authentic flavors family-style in the courtyard, fire-side at the bar, and on the veranda overlooking the Gulf. Open daily from 11 a.m. 2236 E. County Road 30A, Seaside. 850-231-3113. $$ L D THE TACO BAR AT BUD & ALLEY’S Mexican. Shake the sand off your feet, choose a colorful table and get ready to experience South-of-the-Border favorites —Florida style. Baja fish tacos, home-made guacamole, burritos, top shelf margaritas, and ice-cold cerveza. Open daily from 11 a.m.(in season) 2236 E. Country Road 30A, ec Seaside. 850-231-4781. $$ L D

Consistently Delicious for 20 Years! www.cafethirtya.com

3899 East Scenic Hwy. 30A, Seagrove Beach · 850.231.2166 Online Reservations. All Major Credit Cards. Open Daily At 5.

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The Tradition Continues 2012, 2013, 2014

&

EUROPEAN BREAKFAST

Breakfast: Saturday 8am–noon, Sunday 8am–1pm Miramar Beach: Wed-Sun 8am–1pm Lunch: M–F 11am–2pm Dinner: M–F 5pm–9pm, Sat. 5pm–9:30pm

12273 Emerald Coast Pkwy, Miramar Beach 844.246.MAMA (toll free) Uptown Station, 75 Eglin Pkwy, Fort Walton Beach 850.243.0707 | ClemenzasAtUptown.com

we roll with the freshest Local Produce, Fresh Gulf Fish, Highest Quality Beef 18 Hibachi Tables | Sushi Bar Private Dining | Large Parties Welcome Happy Hour 4:30-6:30 p.m.

Open Daily for Lunch and Dinner Coming Soon to Pier Park in Panama City Beach!

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34745 Emerald Coast Parkway | Destin, Florida 32541 | (850) 650-4688

www.osakahibachiandsushi.com

MATT BURKE

on the menu

THE SCHNITZEL LODGE’S JAEGERSCHNITZEL

It’s summer! Time to get out and about on the EC. Plan to nosh and nibble your way through these great meals on menus at local inns, lodge-like eateries and petite pizza places by the sea.

Breakfast HIBISCUS HOUSE CAFÉ, GRAYTON BEACH

One more reason to venture to gorgeous Grayton Beach is this cute little vegetarian café tucked into the first floor of an inn’s main house under a canopy of majestic live oaks. As with most things at Hibiscus Café, it’s low on frills but full of quirky charm.

Breakfast options are chalked on a blackboard. We tried the SPINACH FRITTATA featuring farm-fresh eggs, dark leafy spinach, tomatoes and zesty feta served with fresh fruit salad. Service wasn’t fancy — it came in a paper bowl with a plastic fork — but it was warm and flavorful. With live music wafting in from the back patio, Hibiscus is one more reason to love life at the beach. $5

Lunch PIZZA BY THE SEA, SANTA ROSA BEACH

Join us for our Lunch Specials starting at $4.99!

Fair warning to pizza slices everywhere: Pizza by the Sea’s MEATBALL SUB is a tasty torpedo for healthy appetites. Juicy, flavorful, slow-cooked Italian meatballs smothered in zesty marinara sauce are piled into a freshly baked hoagie bun. It’s all served with chips and a drink. The pizzeria is popular with kids, and the Meatball Sub is surely one of the big reasons why. $9.99

• Nightly Dinner Specials

Dinner

• Kids Menu

THE SCHNITZEL LODGE, NICEVILLE

Like the hearty German food it serves, the Schnitzel Lodge is warm and cozy. With old-style dishes such as gulasch, Frikadellen and 10 different types of schnitzel, it was hard to decide, but we settled on the JAEGERSCHNITZEL. This delicious, hearty dish centers on a large portion of pounded pork, breaded and lightly pan-fried and topped with a rich and creamy mushroom sauce and warm German potato salad. (You can also opt for french fries or spaetzle [noodles].)

When you pair it with a pitcher of cold Bitbeer served by a cheery waitress donned in a dirndl, you have the makings of an Oktoberfest party at the beach. Danke schön! $16.99

• An Extensive Full Dining Menu • Daily Drink Specials • Great Craft Beer Selection

Miller’s Destin Ale House Across from Destin Commons 34906 Emerald Coast Pkwy. | Destin, FL 32541 850-837-0694 | MillersAleHouse.com /millersalehouse | @millersalehouse | #millersalehouse

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the last word

A Tribute to ‘The Truman Show,’ A Community Score

i

t is funny how things in life sometimes work out. One day you are sitting at your desk, loving your mid-level management job to match your mid-20s, and the next day you are sitting at the Holiday Inn Sunspree Resort in Panama City Beach with high-level executives from Paramount Pictures discussing why your piece of paradise is ideal for a major motion picture.

And so my involvement with “The Truman Show” film began … just like that.

They say it’s “who you know” that matters in Jim Carey on show business. And in my owner relations job, as is the set built still the case today, I worked directly with Seaside in Seaside’s homeowners. A call from Seaside’s director of Ruskin Place. marketing insisted that I be engaged in the process from the beginning. And so, as requested, I reported to Seaside at 7 a.m. the following morning to begin my first (and likely last) foray into Hollywood films.

The initial meeting turned into multiple site visits, and with each visit the guests seemed to be increasing in notoriety. Formal negotiations began, a deal was reached and the rest is Seaside and silver-screen history. And, yet again, my relationship with Seaside’s owners would offer me an experience I’ll never forget and one for which I will forever be grateful. Beth Folta, a former colleague at the executive level, was named the primary liaison to Paramount.

And who became her on-the-ground, day-in-and-day-out, “jack-ofall-trades-find-this-yesterday” person? You guessed it … me.

Here are some of my personal memories of when the “big time” came to our beach town 17 years ago: ■ The location fee for “The Truman Show” was ultimately used to build the Seaside Neighborhood School. The process of negotiating this was fast and furious and involved every rental owner in the community, because monthly rental rates did not even exist … until then.

■ The first place “Truman Show” star Jim Carrey set foot in Seaside was the Motorcourt Courtyard. A very large, black SUV rolled in right behind the then-Owner Services office, and out stepped Jim and his then-wife, Lauren Holly.

■ 32 Natchez St. was featured in the scene where the couple across the street comes out and says, “Good afternoon, good evening and good night.” That same cottage, now called Cabana Fever, is a member of the Homeowner’s Collection program, and the owner’s daughter serves on our board of directors.

■ Actress Laura Linney felt her mother would be fascinated by the homes in Seaside and asked me to tour her, so I spent a lovely afternoon with them touring nearly every home on the rental program.

■ Actor Noah Emmerich, who played Marlin, became a friend.

The kickoff party was at the Red Bar in Grayton Beach, and he sat, by choice, at our table.

■T he night shoots were the hardest because I was still doing my regular job during the day. My new friend, Noah, observed one night that, as he put it, “I looked comatose.” This was the same night that they were filming the red truck racing down the street, coming to a screeching halt, with Marlin (Noah) running into the house to confirm the missing Truman. Noah suggested that I go to the Natchez House, where he was staying, to rest. I initially resisted, but finally I agreed. My phone rang, what seemed to be five minutes later, with a frantic Noah on the other end telling me to get to the set quick … the truck had spun out of control, run through a fence and into a house! Of course, I jumped up, ran out the front door and fell down the steps to find him standing in the street laughing hysterically. I had been asleep for three hours; it was 4 a.m. and the shoot was over.

“The Truman Show” was a big question for a lot of us in the early days. To be asked to help rally the owners around the cause was sometimes unsettling because of the unknowns. But I did believe firmly in the long-term marketing value, the short-term influx of business during what was traditionally a very slow time, the benefit of the school to the community and, finally, the ability to execute the plan with minimal effects to the residential areas.

I hear people argue whether Michael Jordan or Wayne Gretsky actually said the phrase, but one thing is for sure: “You miss 100 percent of the shots you never take.” “The Truman Show” was a community shot, a community effort and a community score. ec

Amy Coble began her hospitality career more than 20 years ago at Seaside and has recently relocated back to Seaside as general manager of the vacation rental company, The Homeowner’s Collection, which is now located off Quincy Circle.

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PHOTO COURTESY OF SEASIDE, FL AND PARAMOUNT PICTURES

BY AMY COBLE

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices honored eleven local agents and one team with national sales awards for 2014.

We love what we do because of you!

CHAIRMAN’S CIRCLE – TOP 2%

Cathy Alley

Brad Smith

PRESIDENT’S CIRCLE – TOP 3%

Royce Mitchell

LEADING EDGE SOCIETY – TOP 7%

Chris Sause

William Flynn

Julie Dorathy

Chip Jervis

HONOR SOCIETY – TOP 10%

Missy Hooker

Team Krika

Maryjo Morris

Frasier Phelps

Kelly Shephard

www.BHHSPenFed.com 7684 W County Highway 30A | Santa Rosa Beach, FL | (850) 267-0013 1073 John Sims Parkway | Niceville, FL | (850) 729-0176 ©2014 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 HomeServices and the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices symbol are registered service marks of HomeServices of America, Inc.® Equal Housing Opportunity.