Emerald Coast Magazine February/March 2020

EMERALD COAST MAGAZINE

SPECIAL 20TH ANNIVERSARY ISSUE

2000–20

MA

GAZIN

TOP 20 COVERS

» WHERE ARE THEY NOW? » LOOKING BACK & LEANING FORWARD

Celebrating 20 Years of Storytelling

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM

20 YEARS: A RETROSPECTIVE $3.95

FEB-MAR 2020

The people, places and things that matter most to you … we have covered it.

WHERE ARE THEY NOW?

www.emeraldcoastmagazine.com A product of Rowland Publishing, Inc.

D

Special Edition

We revisit six remarkable locals to remember and share their amazing stories.

E

AST

20 YE AR

EMER AL

CO

S

FEB–MAR 2020

OF

ide as ute Se stit In

An Apartment in Paris

ide y as bl Se sem ll As Ha

Lyceum Stage

Ophelia Swimwear Rolland’s Beauty Bar Sm ol

Focus

ia n Ci rc

ide as Se r l Ci oo n ch ia ol dS oo Sm rh bo igh Ne

J Ki i•Sh •c i hn

Ar tfu lE ye

Bump and Baby

W W illow oo + ds

D S uc Fu hop kies n of

cl e

ON

R UA SQ

E

M

LO SO

1st Floor Trustmark ATM

M er

2nd Floor

can t

ile

Homeowner’s Collection Johnson Rice & Co., LLC

Amavida

Seaside Associated Stores Office

La Vie Est Belle

Central Square

Anne Hunter Galleries

Earl Bacon Insurance Company

Art of Simple

Beach Ready Spa

Mr. Gyro Hero Quincy Circle

Cottage Rental Agency Front Desk

Electric Vehicle Charging Station

Frost Bites

Barefoot BBQ

Bud & Alley’s Pizza Bar

HWY 30-A Bud & Alley’s Taco Bar ONO Surf Shop

The Shrimp Shack

Bud & Alley’s Waterfront Restaurant and Rooftop Bar

East/West Boardwalk

Austin Magee’s Surf School Gulf of Mexico

Cabana Man

Coleman Pavilion

Mohney Pavilion

It’s Heavenly

le

Lyceum

seasideFL.com

Seaside Interfaith Chapel

Newbill Collection by the Sea

Ruskin Place

Big Mama’s Hula Girl Gallery Ruskin Studio

Nicole Paloma Designs

Seaside Transit Authority Bike Rental

BFF

Great Southern Café

al rds ntr co Ce re Re ua Sq s ok Bo g o nd Su

st Po f fice O

w To

q nS

ua

r

h eS

oe

s

Modica Market

The Seaside REP Theatre

Quincy Circle

2nd Floor Seaside Amphitheatre

Seaside Visitor’s Bureau Central Square

Dawson’s Yogurt & Fudge Works

Quincy Circle

Wild Bill’s Beach Dogs

Seaside Communty Development Corporation

The Seaside Style

Crêpes du Soleil

Seaside Community Realty

Pickle’s Burger & Shake Cabana by the Seaside Style

Seaside Kids

HWY 30-A Cocina Cubana

Meltdown on 30A

Florida Haus

1200 feet from the Seaside Interfaith Chapel to the Beach

Se as Se id as e F it ide Av ne S en w ss ue im C Se en an te as d r Te id nn e Av is Cl en ub ue

Amoré by the Sea

Seaside Beach

Seaside Pavilion

Gulf of Mexico EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

February-March 2020

3

One Restaurant. Three Experiences.

Enjoy Gulf Coast Americana cuisine locally sourced with Caribbean influences, as well as a vast collection of wines and spirits. Choose to dine in our vibrant dining room, intimate outdoor Veranda or relax on our Rooftop Lounge with views overlooking the Gulf and Main Street.

850-588-2882 | thepearlRB.com Located at The Pearl Hotel | 63 Main Street | Rosemary Beach, FL 32461

4

February-March 2020 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

February-March 2020

5

Contents

FEB/MAR 2020

FEATURES

35 20 YEARS: A RETROSPECTIVE

The people, places and things that matter most to you. Since launching the first consumer magazine on the Emerald Coast in 2000, we have covered it.

56 WHERE ARE THEY NOW?

After all these years, we still often wonder, what happened to him? What became of her? We catch up with six remarkable locals who have appeared in past editions of Emerald Coast Magazine.

CELEBRATING 20

20 HAPPY ANNIVERSARY!

We congratulate deserving businesses, organizations and events who also will mark big milestones in 2020.

22 OLDE TRENDS The places we

24 LOOKING BACK &

LEANING FORWARD EC readers share what they most enjoy about living here (beyond bragging rights) and what they hope 2040 will bring.

56

26 20 FACTOIDS FROM 2000 We

IN EVERY ISSUE

reflect on 20 landmark events from the turn of the century.

12 14 128 138

70 WE HEART THE EC

How much do we love all the things that make the Emerald Coast home? Here are at least 100 ways … and counting.

88 IN THE MOMENT We bring you

20 YE AR

AST

6

D CO

» WHERE ARE THEY NOW? » LOOKING BACK & LEANING FORWARD

98 MILESTONES The marvelous

up 20 of our favorite moments of locals out and about on the Emerald Coast scene.

EMER AL

2000–20

GAZIN

E

TOP 20 COVERS

re-recognize six special Best of the Emerald Coast “all-star” winners from years past.

102 SOCIAL STUDIES We frame

OF

Special Edition MA

96 THE BEST OF BEST We

milestones, markers and maybe even a couple mishaps that make up our history.

SPECIAL 20TH ANNIVERSARY ISSUE

S

EMERALD COAST MAGAZINE

an “album” of moments that captured our attention and imagination.

PUBLISHER’S LETTER EDITOR’S LETTER SOCIAL STUDIES POSTSCRIPT

Celebrating 20 Years of Storytelling

20 YEARS: A RETROSPECTIVE The people, places and things that matter most to you … we have covered it.

WHERE ARE THEY NOW?

We revisit six remarkable locals to remember and share their amazing stories.

70

February-March 2020 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

ON THE COVER: After capturing the essence of the Emerald Coast for two decades, we thought it only fitting we make a little splash — thanks to Jennifer Ekrut, who designed our refreshing cover.

PHOTOS BY ERICK LIMA (56), KANSAS PITTS (70)

could not go and the things we did without 20 years ago, and the “old school” stuff we’ll always love.

EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

February-March 2020

7

Contents

PROMOTION

FEB/MAR 2020

SPECIAL SECTIONS AND PROMOTIONS

134

81

WONDER WOMEN Who runs the

world? Why it’s these talented, passionate, determined and charismatic women who are bettering their industries and communities.

100

KEYS TO HOME Inlanta

Mortgage knows that home is where the heart is, assisting clients with mortgage options that match their financial goals.

104

DEAL ESTATE

↑ BEST OF THE EMERALD COAST RECAP The 2019 Best of the Emerald Coast celebration was a night of glamour and giving as guests gathered to celebrate award winners and the 20th anniversary of Emerald Coast Magazine. Local businesses showcased why they were honored the best of the best in their categories.

32

← LIKE FINE WINE

28

Wine World, located in Grand Boulevard, is the perfect place to find gifts and gadgets for all occasions.

30

COOL CARTS

At Dixielectricar, zoom out of the showroom in the finest selection of gas and electric golf carts, which are ideal for a laidback yet luxurious lifestyle, whether you cruise the beach or the course.

76

↑ EXPANDING HORIZONS

Les Ballets Trockadero de Monte Carlo infuses their ballet with a dash of comedy. The New York City-based all-male drag troupe will deliver a performance both hilarious and technically strong.

78

The Chain of Parks Art Festival celebrates 20 years of being Northwest Florida’s premier fine arts festival.

SACRED HEART FOUNDATION “Stories from the Heart” describes people who have been helped by the Sacred Heart Foundation and the expertise and dedication of the caring men and women who make up the Sacred Heart Health System.

8

February-March 2020 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

118

↑ CALENDAR Wine galore,

WORKS OF ART

107

◆

UNFORGETTABLE COAST

While it may be called the Forgotten Coast, once you visit this vibrant area you won’t forget the nature, history and culture present.

Fort Walton Beach Medical Center will provide even more exemplary care with more than $80 million in expansions projects planned for 2020.

BOISTEROUS BALLET

NEXT ISSUE SPRING GIFT GUIDE

116

MEDICAL PROFILES

art festivals from shore to shore, 5K runs that won’t bore and so much more along the Emerald Coast, during the months of February and March.

126

MEET YOUR MATCH For

21 years, the Tallahassee Tennis Challenger has netted large crowds and even more impressive national and international professional tennis players.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF LAND AIR SEA PRODUCTIONS (134), SOUTH WALTON BEACHES WINE & FOOD FESTIVAL (118), GRAND BOULEVARD (32) AND FORT WALTON BEACH MEDICAL CENTER (28)

A stunning home in Wild Heron is on the market, offering a taste of the resort lifestyle. This bungalow home is surrounded by Shark’s Tooth Golf Course and Lake Powell.

THE “BEST GOLF CLUB” IS GETTING EVEN

Better VOTED BY VISIT SOUTH WALTON

NEW MEMBERS-ONLY SHORT GAME AREA NOW OPEN MULTI-MILLION-DOLLAR COURSE RENOVATION COMING 2021

Memberships Currently Sold Out. Inquire About Our Wait List.

1 price | 4 memberships (includes golf, social events, pool/beach access, dining)

sarah@santarosaclub.com 850.267.2229 Ext. 3 santarosaclub.com

LEARN MORE *

Other restrictions may apply. See Club for details. 43671 0219 MR

EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

February-March 2020

9

EMERALD COAST MAGAZINE

VOL. 21, NO. 1

FEB–MAR 2020

PRESIDENT/PUBLISHER BRIAN E. ROWLAND

EDITORIAL EDITOR Zandra Wolfgram MANAGING EDITOR Jeff Price STAFF WRITER Hannah Burke CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Steve Bornhoft, Danielle J. Brown, Javis Ogden, Rebecca Padgett

FRESH SEAFOOD FROM OUR FAMILY TO YOURS

CREATIVE DIRECTOR OF PRODUCTION AND TECHNOLOGY Daniel Vitter CREATIVE DIRECTOR Jennifer Ekrut SENIOR PUBLICATION DESIGNER Shruti Shah PUBLICATION DESIGNERS Sarah Burger, Jordan Harrison, Lindsey Masterson GRAPHIC DESIGNER Sierra Thomas CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Alissa Aryn, Brandan Babineaux, Michael Booini, Matt Burke, Carolyn Cruz, Mari Darr~Welch, Lawrence Davidson, HBB Photography, Scott Holstein, Jacqueline Ward Images, Land Air Sea Productions, Erick Lima, Kurt Lischka / Moon Creek Studios, Kansas Pitts, Austin Powell, Pure 7 Studios, Lori Saczynski, Timothy Schumaker, Phil Sears, Shelly Swanger, Tim Skipper Photography, Stephan Vance, Jeff Waldorff

SALES, MARKETING AND EVENTS DEWEY DESTIN'S SEAFOOD RESTAURANT 9 Calhoun Ave., Destin, FL 850.837.7575

VICE PRESIDENT/CORPORATE DEVELOPMENT McKenzie Burleigh SALES MANAGER, EASTERN DIVISION Lori Magee Yeaton SALES MANAGER, WESTERN DIVISION Rhonda Lynn Murray DIRECTOR OF NEW BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT, EASTERN DIVISION Daniel Parisi DIRECTOR OF NEW BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT, WESTERN DIVISION Dan Parker ADVERTISING SERVICES COORDINATORS Tracy Mulligan, Lisa Sostre ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES David Doll, Julie Dorr, Darla Harrison MARKETING MANAGER Kate Pierson SALES AND MARKETING WRITER Rebecca Padgett SALES AND EVENTS MANAGER Mackenzie Little SENIOR INTEGRATED MARKETING COORDINATOR Javis Ogden

OPERATIONS

ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES DIRECTOR Melissa Spear CUSTOM PUBLISHING MANAGER Sara Goldfarb CLIENT SERVICES REPRESENTATIVE/PRODUCTION SPECIALIST Melinda Lanigan ACCOUNTING ASSISTANT Amber Dennard

DEWEY DESTIN'S HARBORSIDE RESTAURANT 202 Harbor Blvd,, Destin, FL 850.837.7525

OW

N

EN

OP

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

EDITORIAL OFFICE 1932 Miccosukee Road, Tallahassee, FL 32308. (850) 878-0554

DEWEY DESTIN'S SEAFOOD RESTAURANT 8673 Navarre Pkwy., Navarre, FL 850.710.7070

WWW.DESTINSEAFOOD.COM

10

February-March 2020 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.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 Pensacola and Books-A-Million in Destin, Fort Walton Beach, Panama City and Pensacola.

CUSTOMER SERVICE & SUBMISSIONS Emerald Coast 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. Emerald Coast Magazine reserves the right to publish any letters to the editor.

Copyright February 2020 Emerald Coast Magazine Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is prohibited.

EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

February-March 2020

11

from the publisher

REMEMBERING THE DEBUT OF EMERALD COAST MAGAZINE

12

who would partner with me. My pitch was if I do not produce a Tallahassee Magazine-quality product delivered via direct mail to households in the spring of 2000 and you are not satisfied for any reason, you do not need to pay for your advertisement.

About 22 local businessmen and -women were excited about the opportunity a consumer lifestyle magazine afforded them and signed up.

I was encouraged by the receptivity.

We could launch knowing we would at least break even — rare in the publishing business. When the first edition published, everyone paid their bill, and no one requested a refund.

Emerald Coast Magazine took its rightful place in the market as the first consumer lifestyle magazine.

I would like to acknowledge and thank the Emerald Coast Junior League, whose renovation of the historic Gulf View Hotel was the cover story of the inaugural issue. They welcomed me to debut Emerald Coast Magazine at a charity event. Today, we are still closely aligned partners through Best of the Emerald Coast, which has become one of their major annual fundraisers.

Your editor, Zandra Wolfgram, has curated a wonderful lineup of creative content that both reflects on our 20-year history as an integral part of the community and looks ahead to the horizon. We had the pleasure of digging into our archives to unearth more than 100 editions and are happy to share with you a collection of the most memorable.

As you page through this feature, we hope you enjoy “strolling down memory lane” as much as we did.

There is an amazing team that makes the magazine happen. Allow me to acknowledge two people integral to the team. First, Rhonda Murray, who joined

February-March 2020 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

2003

Rowland Publishing in 2002 as an eager and energized new college grad. I have had the privilege of watching Rhonda grow and mature into a community leader and the sparkling crown jewel of our talented Emerald Coast team.

And Zandra Wolfgram, who began as a writer in 2008 and then stepped up as editor from 2010 to 2016 — our longest tenured editor. We are thrilled that she rejoined the team in May to become our lead storyteller in chief. Without their creative efforts and commitment to excellence, Emerald Coast Magazine would not be blowing out 20 candles this month.

I hope you enjoy and savor this special edition of Emerald Coast Magazine much like a wonderfully prepared dinner with a perfectly aged bottle of wine.

Cheers!

BRIAN ROWLAND browland@rowlandpublishing.com

ROWLAND PUBLISHING FILE PHOTO

Hard to believe it has been 20 years since Emerald Coast Magazine began its journey serving the coastal communities of Northwest Florida. Last summer, our sister publication Tallahassee Magazine celebrated its 40th anniversary, and later this year, 850 Magazine hits the 10-year mark. I’m reminded that I have been “at it” for quite a while.

In the late ’90s, Rowland Publishing Inc. was fortunate to be the “go to” market leader for high-end four-color magazines. Our portfolio included The Symphony program, The Visitor’s Guide of Leon County and the Tallahassee Newcomer Guide among others. As a serial entrepreneur, I was ready to take this market niche beyond Tallahassee.

I believe it was 1999 when I joined my wife, Cherie, at Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort in Miramar Beach, while she attended a professional meeting.

That first morning, I took a drive and headed west on Highway 98 and was duly impressed by the many retail and restaurant businesses that lined both sides of the street. I stopped by a couple of chambers and the Destin Library only to find a dearth of local magazines.

What I did see was an opportunity. I could not get back to the Department of Corporations in Tallahassee soon enough to register “Emerald Coast Magazine.”

In short order, I had my second “start up” publishing project — the first in a new market. Rowland Publishing Inc. was officially a regional publishing house.

This was a passion project, and I relished sharing my vision and making “the ask” personally. For about a month, I spent four nights a week at the Destin Days Inn. This was something that deserved a face-to-face presentation.

I went door-to-door with a stack of Tallahassee Magazines in hand along with an offer of a money-back guarantee to all

FOR

ALL

YOUR

REAL

ESTATE

NEEDS

EXPERIENCE COUNTS

Specializing in RESIDENTIAL • COMMERCIAL INVESTMENT • LAND 30-A EMERALD COAST 5231 E. County Hwy 30-A, #100 21901 PCB Pkwy Santa Rosa Beach, FL Panama City Beach, FL (850) 231-1483 (850) 249-1414 CountsOn30A.com CountsEmeraldCoast.com

THOMAS DRIVE 2104 Thomas Drive Panama City Beach, FL (850) 249-3615 CountsRealEstate.com

PANAMA CITY 3009 Hwy 77, Suite H Panama City, FL (850) 248-3615 CountsPanamaCity.com

EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

February-March 2020

13

editor’s letter

TIME TO CELEBRATE!

20 years of capturing the essence of the Emerald Coast … one story at a time

14

2011

Emerald Coast Magazine in 2008, and Brian invited me to come aboard as editor in 2010. We channeled great feedback from reader surveys, focus groups and market research into a redesign and relaunched as EC in 2011. South Walton Artist of the Year Allison Wickey graced the cover.

Highlights for me have been working with big-hearted talents like editorial director/850 editor Linda Kleindienst, Tallahassee Magazine editor Rosanne Dunkelberger and staff photographer Scott Holstein.

The inventive imagination of creative director Jennifer Ekrut and her stable of designers makes the anticipation of each edition on par with Christmas morning. The magazine comes alive because of our talented staff writer Hannah Burke and the top-notch contributing writers whose bylines have appeared on hundreds of stories.

“Behind the scenes,” there is a crew of unsung heroes such as Daniel Vitter, Melinda Lanigan, Jeff Price and others who work tirelessly to ensure the magazine makes it on press and in mailboxes. And seeing longtime staffers such as McKenzie Burleigh and Rhonda Murray grow into leadership roles has been a thrill.

To the editors who have lent their time and talents over the years, I salute and congratulate you: Julie Strauss Bettinger, Dave Fiore, James Call, F. Bart Pfankuch,

February-March 2020 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

↖ Editor Zandra Rosanne Dunkelberger, Wolfgram Amanda Broadfoot, Lori with artist Eckert, Wendy O. Dixon and Allison Wickey at the reveal especially Steve Bornhoft. celebration In recent years, the Emerald for the newly Coast team has expanded to redesigned edition in 2011. include a dynamic digital team. Our print edition is now bolstered with branded content in the form of engaging e-newsletters, online blogs and cache of social media platforms. As we look ahead, we are well-positioned to continue to make consuming Emerald Coast news and stories convenient and easy. Who knows what we will evolve into 20 years from now?

What we do know is that everyone on the Emerald Coast team will continue to be honored to live our mission of capturing the essence of the Emerald Coast … one compelling story at a time.

It’s time to celebrate. In this issue, we toss the template to bring you a special anniversary edition as we look back and lean forward to deliver a party on each page.

To the future,

ZANDRA WOLFGRAM, EDITOR zwolfgram@rowlandpublishing.com

PHOTO COURTESY OF ZANDRA WOLFGRAM

With Emerald Coast Magazine’s anniversary nearing, it occurs to me, that I, too, am celebrating 20 years here on the Emerald Coast.

I moved here from New Orleans in June 1999 and joined Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort as the marketing and communications lead in October, making my attempt at being a free-spirited “beach girl” short-lived. My first day on the job was the annual all-staff beach picnic.

I remember eating a burger as the senior leaders performed a skit in togas on the beach and thinking, “This could be a fun gig.” And for the next eight years, it surely was.

Looking back, it’s funny to think that while I was heading in and out of the resort for job interviews, I could easily have crossed paths with publisher Brian Rowland while he was scouting the area planting those early seeds for Emerald Coast Magazine.

The first time I spent any length of time with our publisher in person was in the early 2000s, when he joined a press tour for The Village of Baytowne Wharf. During that time, we launched Sandestin Magazine to market the growing resort’s offerings. It got Brian’s attention, and over a glass of iced tea at Jim ’N Nick’s in 2004, he convinced me I could help the Rowland team bring the resort’s signature magazine and newspaper to the next level. Our 16-year working relationship began in earnest, along with Rowland’s Custom Publishing division. Today, Rowland continues to publish what is now Sandestin Living Magazine.

I began freelance writing for

HunterDouglas 0 HunterDouglas 0 SHADES SHADES

+ +

NEW

DESIGN STUDIO CUSTOM DRAPERIES AND SHADES

MOTORIZATION - BEAUTIFUL HOME MOTORIZATION - BEAUTIFUL HOME

DRAPERIES & SHADES

+ HUNTER DOUGLAS =

McNeillPalmllc.com McNeillPalmllc.com

ff

BEAUTIFUL HOME

(850) 613-6228 (850) 613-6228

EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

February-March 2020

15

PROMOTION

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM

Offer ends March 28 | Value: $650

Visit EmeraldCoastMagazine.com/giveaways to enter.

Jeffrey Steele Following his heart leads Jeffrey Steele to country music fame and 30A Songwriters stage

GIVING BIG, GIVING BACK Herculean charity efforts are making indelible differences

COZY COCKTAILS

Creative concoctions you can craft at home

HOLIDAY SHOWS

Festive theater productions to get you in the spirit

I just read the article in your magazine (Citizen of Style, “La Vie En Rose: Dr. Marinella Monk Makes Music of Everyday Life,” Dec 2019/Jan 2020) and I wanted to express to you my gratitude for the wonderful way I was introduced to your readers.

It is a great privilege to be featured in such a highly viewed publication, and you thinking of me is an honor. I am profoundly touched.

NEONATAL INTENSIVE CARE

PEELS AND FACIALS THAT DEFY AGING SKIN

Incorporating some facial treatments in addition to anti-aging products could prove to be effective in your overall skin routine.

Visit EmeraldCoastMagazine.com/ beauty-links to learn more.

Fort Walton Beach Medical Center is the only Level II Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) in the tri-county area. Visit EmeraldCoastMagazine.com/ health-links to learn more about their 24/7 approach for babies and their families.

Marinella Monk Santa Rosa Beach

It’s nice to see real pieces in Emerald Coast Magazine again. Your presence has already classed it up. Thank you for always supporting the arts and culture.

Demetrius Fuller Sinfonia Gulf Coast

@EMERALDCOASTMAG

@emeraldcoastmag

16

Emerald Coast Magazine

@EmeraldCoastMag

February-March 2020 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

Whether you’re walking the beach or relaxing at home, we would love to know how you’re spending Valentine’s Day on the Emerald Coast. Tag us on Instagram stories for a chance to be featured!

I just opened my copy, and the wonderful article (“Everyone’s A Winner,” Dec 2019/ Jan 2020) is in there!

Thank you, thank you, thank you!

John Russell Destin Charity Wine Auction Foundation

PHOTOS BY JACOB WACKERHAUSEN (BEAUTY LINKS) AND ALICE-PHOTO (HEALTH LINKS) / ROYALTY-FREE - ISTOCK / GETTY IMAGES PLUS AND COURTESY OF SOUTH WALTON BEACHES WINE & FOOD FESTIVAL

Hosted by Grand Boulevard, the 2020 South Walton Beaches Wine & Food Festival features celebrity winemakers, distillers, chefs, brewmasters and entertainers for a four-day celebration benefiting children in need in Northwest Florida.

» HOLIDAY GIFTS, SHOWS & DÉCOR

One grand prize winner will get TWO TICKETS TO THE SOUTH WALTON BEACHES WINE & FOOD FESTIVAL at Grand Boulevard on the Emerald Coast from April 23–26.

MEET EIGHT POWERHOUSE PINNACLE AWARD WINNING WOMEN

tenacious truth teller GIVING BACK

South Walton Beaches Wine & Food Festival

EMERALD COAST MAGAZINE

GIVEAWAY

Feedback

forever YOU WILL

always

BE MY

Voted the “Best Place to Pop the Question� by Destin Magazine, Vue on 30a is home to dramatic sunsets with its panoramic views of the Gulf of Mexico through expansive floor-to-ceiling windows.

From its sleek, contemporary look to its inviting atmosphere, Vue on 30a offers something for everyone and can accommodate intimate weddings of 35 to large-scale weddings or rehearsal dinners up to 200 guests.

Contact us today. vueon30a.com | 850.267.2305 ext. 3 | events@santarosaclub.com

EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

February-March 2020

17

ADVERTISEMENT

SOUTHEASTERN SASH & DOOR IS NOW PLEASED TO OFFER WINDSOR WINDOWS & DOORS Windsor Windows & Doors can help you bring your vision to life.

Our windows and doors open up a home to the light, air and beauty of the outside world. But it’s the inspired designs and lasting performance of Windsor products that open up a world of possibilities for architects and builders.

Windsor Windows & Doors takes our name from our company’s origins in Windsor Heights, Iowa. Since 1946, Windsor’s strong Midwestern work ethic and pride in craftsmanship have guided us in building a business completely centered on the things that matter most to our customers. In 1987, Windsor became part of Woodgrain Millwork – the largest U.S. manufacturer of prefinished mouldings and interior pine doors. This alliance and other successes have given Windsor a national presence in today’s window and door marketplace.

Every product from Windsor carries our commitment to quality design, timeless beauty and skilled craftsmanship. Take a closer look and you’ll also discover how each product Windsor manufactures meets exacting standards of energy efficiency and durability, as well as ease of installation, operation and maintenance.

Whether you are a professional builder or architect, or simply a do-it-yourselfer, we invite you to discover Windsor’s high-quality products and superior customer service, making Windsor Windows & Doors the ideal choice for your next window or door project.

The Best Value in the Industry Windsor believes you shouldn’t have to pay a premium to get the highest quality windows and doors. Windsor offers the best value for your dollar. We don’t have extravagant advertising budgets and we don’t distribute our products through national retailers. Our brand name may not be the most well known. However,

18

February-March 2020 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

when you compare our features to those of the competition, you’ll see a quality of construction that is second to none. Building professionals who know windows choose Windsor because we provide the best value in the industry.

Pride in Craftsmanship One look at a Windsor window or door and you’ll recognize its superior construction. Every Windsor product is constructed with the highest grade of materials, hardware and glass. Utilizing our rigorous quality control program, we carefully monitor every product throughout the entire manufacturing process. The result is a product we’re proud to put our name on, and you’ll be proud to use for your next project.

Service and Selection We pledge the best possible support services in the industry for all of our custom-built products, which are manufactured in three distinctive materials: wood with aluminum clad or primed exterior, cellular PVC and vinyl.

Strength and Beauty Windsor products combine the best of both worlds – strength and beauty. We’ve designed our windows and doors to be aesthetically pleasing and complementary to any décor – that’s the beauty of Windsor Windows & Doors. Our products’ strength comes from premium hardware, fine materials and quality workmanship.

You’ll feel this combination of strength and beauty every time you open or close one of our windows or doors.

Imagine what you can do with Windsor Windows & Doors.

ADVERTISEMENT

Make every project a success.

Windsor Windows & Doors has distinct product lines for every application. New construction. Room additions. Window replace-

ment. Windsor has the solutions to help meet any home building or home improvement need. Discover all of the products we have to offer.

Pinnacle The strength and beauty of natural wood define our elite Pinnacle line of products.

Crafted from the finest pine, alder and fir, Pinnacle windows and doors add a measure of elegance to any home.

From subtle to showy, Pinnacle products are endlessly customizable through an array of finishes, hardware, shapes, grille options, cladding colors, glass and trim options, allowing the perfect window or door to be created.

Homeowners can choose from the technologically advanced Pinnacle Select, the durable and damage resistant Pinnacle wood clad or Pinnacle primed, which arrives ready to be painted any color.

Next Dimension Pro vinyl windows and patio doors are designed for light commercial, multi-family and residential applications, all at a highly competitive price. Vinyl extrusions ensure superior weathering, durability and color retention. Construction features are built in to reduce maintenance, add strength and security, and maximize weather resistance.

All Next Dimension vinyl products are available in white or clay, as well as seven painted exterior colors (white, ivory, tan, bronze, cinnamon, hunter green and black). These products offer commercially rated performance and low maintenance, and are backed by a lifetime limited warranty.

Revive Pocket Replacement Windows TM

Legend Legend products are constructed from solid cellular PVC, creating the traditional look and feel of painted wood with the low maintenance and strong durability of vinyl. Our windows are protected against rotting, warping, cracking or swelling with a 25-year warranty. Legend products are well suited for both new construction and historical renovation.

Legend HBR products combine the strength and durability of our Legend cellular PVC frame with a wood clad sash. This powerful hybrid offers a low-maintenance exterior with a beautiful wooden interior.

Next Dimension Next Dimension Signature windows and doors are robust, reliable products that offer the resilience of extruded multi-chambered vinyl. Enhanced components and sturdy construction add strength and stability. Homeowners enjoy exceptional performance and energy efficiency.

Next Dimension Classic is available in single and double hung units, sliders and sliding patio doors. What makes Next Dimension Classic unique is its sloped sill, tilt sash, brickmould profile frame and decorative features, such as a profiled inner grille and simulated divided lite.

There’s a lot to love about a home – its unique character, timeless details and genuine craftsmanship. Drafty, unsightly windows can easily steal away from the beauty of these features. That’s where Revive pocket replacement windows come into the picture.

Each window can be transformed with stunning Windsor quality in about an hour – with fewer worries about disturbing any treasured wood trim or other interior and exterior features. And because they’re meticulously built to order with customizable features in three high-quality materials (wood clad, hybrid and vinyl), Windsor Revive pocket replacement windows are a fast, uncomplicated upgrade.

Revive Sash Replacement Kit Replace old, drafty, inefficient double hung sashes with energy efficient, dual pane sashes. Windsor’s Revive Sash Replacement Kit makes updating easy, allowing homeowners to leave existing interior trim and plaster in place. Choose from three different replacement sashes: versatile primed wood, durable aluminum clad or low-maintenance cellular PVC. Revive sashes feature EZ Tilt, which provides fast access for hassle-free cleaning.

Showrooms in: Santa Rosa Beach, Ft. Walton Beach, Pensacola, and Mobile, AL www.southeasternsashanddoor.com

www.windsorwindows.com

EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

February-March 2020

19

D AST

Special Edition 2000–20

MA

E GAZIN

95 years Walton County Area Chamber

HAPPY ANNIVERSARY!

25 years

55 years

U.S. Gold Gymnastics

Gene’s Floor Covering

Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation

Junior League of the Emerald Coast

Café Thirty-A

years 50 years 40Harbor Docks Galati Yacht

Seaside Style

Northwest Florida Ballet

Here’s to you …

Raven Golf Club ONO Surf Shop

Sundog Books Dawson’s Yogurt

In honor of our 20th anniversary, we wanted to take a moment to honor some of the deserving local businesses and organizations who also have much cause to celebrate. When you see them, please congratulate the following folks who also will mark big milestones in 2020:

Destin History & Fishing Museum

Willow and Woods

Florida Public Relations Association

Wild Bill’s Beach Dogs

Sinfonia Gulf Coast

Duckies

Artful Eye

10 years

First and Only Pivate Jet Charter Company on the Emerald Coast No memberships. No initiation fees. Pay as you go.

DESTINation Jets has access to over 4,000 jets throughout the US and Europe and serves as an agent for our clients to provide the best air charter services. At DESTINation Jets, we know the importance of hassle free travel and we look forward to providing you with an unforgettable experience in the sky.

(833) 378.5387 | destinationjets.com February-March 2020 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

15 years

Private Jet Travel, Handled!

20

20 years

Thunder Beach Autumn Rally

ILLUSTRATION BY VOLODYMYR KRYSHTAL / ISTOCK / GETTY IMAGES PLUS

S

EMER AL

CO

20 YE AR

OF

CONSISTENTLY DELICIOUS SINCE 1995!

CONSISTENTLY DELICIOUS SINCE 1995!

3899 E. County Highway 30A, Seagrove · 850.231.2166 · Open Daily At 5 · cafethirtya.com

3899 E. County Highway 30A, Seagrove · 850.231.2166 · Open Daily At 5 · cafethirtya.com EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

February-March 2020

21

D AST

Special Edition 2000–20

MA

GAZIN

E

↙

THE ONE PLACE YOU COULD GO 20 YEARS AGO THAT YOU CAN’T WAIT TO GO TO AGAIN

OLDE TRENDS

Remembering the places and things popular 20 years ago

THE RED BAR

by ZANDRA WOLFGRAM

Remember when every modern home had an 8-track tape player, no cool teenager went anywhere without a Walkman and smoking wasn’t bad for us? Today, our daily lives evolve ever so quickly. Why Google a question, when you can simply ask an all-knowing digital device named Alexa whose “brain” is in the “clouds”? Who knows what the next 20 years will bring? For now, let’s pause a nanosecond to enjoy the nostalgia of remembering the things, places and modern conveniences that have shaped the Emerald Coast and our daily lives.

20 Things We Did Without 20 Years Ago 1. Amazon Alexa 2. iPods, iPads, iPhones & iTunes 3. Texting 4. Uber & Lyft 5. Meal Kits 6. Replay review in sports 7. High-def flat-screen TVs 8. U.S. Department of Homeland Security 9. Google, Craigslist & YouTube 10. Crocs 11. American Idol,

5 OLD SCHOOL THINGS THAT WE WILL ALWAYS LOVE 22

VINYL ALBUMS

America’s Got Talent & Dancing with the Stars 12. Facebook, Twitter, Instagram & Pinterest 13. Florida’s smoke-free law 14. Credit cards with chips 15. Vertical driver’s licenses for 21 and under 16. Tinder 17. GrubHub, Door Dash & Our Town Delivery 18. Walmart & Target delivery 19. Venmo 20. Netflix

20 Places We Couldn’t Go 20 Years Ago 1. The Henderson Hotel 2. The Gulf Hotel in downtown Fort Walton Beach 3. The Village of Baytowne Wharf 4. Grand Boulevard at Sandestin 5. The Pointe on 30A

POLAROID CAMERAS

February-March 2020 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

6. Destin Commons 7. Emerald Grande at HarborWalk Village 8. Wyland Whaling Wall at Legendary Grand 9. Emerald Coast Conference Center 10. Uptown Station 11. WaterSound, Alys Beach, Rosemary Beach, Inlet Beach 12. Sacred Heart Hospital on the Emerald Coast 13. Food for Thought, Emerald Coast Autism Center & Children in Crisis 14. 30Avenue 15. The new Market Shops in Miramar & City Market in Destin 16. Nine Mile Road shops in Pensacola 17. Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport 18. YOLO or BOTE shops 19. The Shops of Grayton 20. The Bay, Boshamps & Brotula’s

TYPEWRITERS

VW BEETLE BUGS & VANS

20 Things We Thought We Couldn’t Live Without until the 2000s … or so 1. Alarm clocks 2. Camera film 3. Dial-up modems 4. Fax machines 5. Slide projectors 6. Answering machines 7. Card catalogues 8. Rolodex 9. Phone booths 10. Phone books 11. Highway maps 12. Rotary phones 13. Car ashtrays 14. Pagers 15. 8-track tapes 16. Console TVs 17. Overhead projectors 18. Calculator watches 19. Floppy disks 20. The Walkman

ENCYCLOPEDIAS

PHOTOS BY LAWRENCE DAVIDSON (THE RED BAR) AND SEWER11 (ENCYCLOPEDIAS), COPRID (VINYL ALBUM), BOYOGLU (POLAROID CAMERAS) AND DIGTIALSTORM (TYPEWRITER) / ISTOCK / GETTY IMAGES PLUS AND PHOTO COURTESY OF FREEPNGIMG.COM (VW BEETLE)

S

EMER AL

CO

20 YE AR

OF

P R I M E

S T E A K S

&

S E A F O O D

SAVOR THE CLASSIC & SOPHISTICATED One of the finest dining destinations along Florida’s Gulf Coast, Seagar’s Prime Steaks & Seafood features an award-winning 600-label wine list, hand selected prime steaks and Gulf-to-table seafood dishes. With fresh, seasonally inspired ingredients, Seagar’s prides itself on providing the most decadent and indulgent meals.

SANDESTIN BEACH GOLF RESORT & SPA

The Emerald Coast’s only AAA Four-Diamond Steakhouse RESERVATIONS 850-622-1500 | 4000 Sandestin Blvd. South, Miramar Beach, FL 32550 | SEAGARS.com EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

Since 2000 February-March 2020

23

S

EMER AL

D AST

Special Edition

CO

20 YE AR

OF

2000–20

MA

GAZIN

E

LOOKING BACK

&

As millions of tourists make their way to the Emerald Coast each year, it’s no secret that our slice of the Panhandle is paradise. Locals lucky enough to have put down roots in this powdery white sand can’t fathom being anyplace else. So, what is it about this vacation destination that makes us feel at home? In honor of our 20th anniversary, we asked Emerald Coast residents to reflect upon what they’ve enjoyed most about living here (beyond bragging rights) and how they think, or hope, things will change in the next 20 years:

↓

“I was born and raised in Panama City Beach, and I am such a water baby. There is no shortage of events that happen in, on or around the water and, of course, you can’t beat a pontoon boat ride to Shell Island.”

LACEE RUDD PANAMA CITY BEACH

“Recreational opportunities within the Emerald Coast are limitless. We can obviously enjoy the water, but beyond that is a rich and diverse environment in which we can hike and explore.”

WESLEY MEYERS PANAMA CITY BEACH

↓

LISA JONES PANAMA CITY BEACH

“I love that, no matter when, there’s always something fun going on. We’ve built a community where there’s always something going on in which I can participate and meet new people.”

COURTNEY RANDALL PENSACOLA

24

“The best thing about living here is community. After Hurricane Michael, we really pulled together. There’s a family of closeness here in the library, and I’m glad to work in a place which people seeking help can go.”

LAURA LASPEE PANAMA CITY BEACH

KELLY PIERRE DESTIN

“I’m from Alabama and have wanted to live here my entire life. When I finally retired, I got a job at St. Andrews State Park. The beach is majestic, and I get to see it every day.”

KEN BEHRINGER DESTIN

↓

↓

“I’ve always been just as passionate about conserving marine life as I am painting it. I love that this is a like-minded community who is conscious of their environment: We protect our sea turtles, restaurants have begun switching to paper straws and we educate everyone who comes through here to be more mindful.”

“I feel like life is a bit slowerpaced here in Destin. Being from Wisconsin, I think people tend to enjoy themselves more when they don’t have to deal with so much winter weather, and I appreciate the elements of Southern hospitality within our community.”

↓

From the Rear View

February-March 2020 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

“We first opened Banana Bart’s 35 years ago, and though the landscape has changed, the people haven’t.

I love that everyone continues to have a good time and be happy. It’s been a wonderful run, and we plan to stay here as long as we can.”

ANNE COLEMAN DESTIN

“I was born and raised here, and to see where it has come from the ’90s to the 2000s and beyond has been exciting. But what I love most is how much the community supports each other. I recently endured a great personal loss, and it feels as if Pensacola has wrapped its arms around me in one giant hug.”

BETHANY LAUREN PENSACOLA

“I enjoy that even though this isn’t the same place it was 20 years ago, it’s still the best place I’ve ever been. There’s a traditional aspect to our area, and I enjoy meeting and befriending multigenerational customers.”

JIM CALDWELL SANTA ROSA BEACH

LEANING FORWARD

20 Emerald Coast locals united by a love for land and sea

by HANNAH BURKE

The Road Ahead ↓

↓

↓

STACEY BRADY DESTIN

MICHELE BARKER SANTA ROSA BEACH

“I’ve lived in Panama City Beach for the past 20 years and have recently witnessed the area transform from the spring break capital into a place that’s more family-oriented.

Twenty years from now, I’d like to see the area remain a family vacation destination.”

↓

“I think we will see the Destin Harbor more commercially developed, and hopefully that development, as with all future development in our area, will promote sustainability, walkability and quality of life.”

“I hope 20 years from now, that we have grown thoughtfully. Our little slice of the beach, with its emerald waters and white sands are unlike anything else, and we should preserve as much as we can.”

“As we see an increase in permanent residents moving from places such as California, Atlanta and New York, I believe we will continue to see a burgeoning art and music culture, with foundational events continuing to blossom within the communities that these new Gulf Coast residents were drawn to.”

ADAM PFAFF SANTA ROSA BEACH

“I see our area continuing to grow and develop through conscientious economic and environmental stewardship that will leave a wonderful legacy for our children and grandchildren to enjoy for years to come.”

HEATHER RUIZ DESTIN

“I was with the sheriff’s office for the first 16 years of Destin’s history. I’ve witnessed a lot of growth — and mostly good change — but, in the future, I don’t want us to get too big and lose that family-friendly atmosphere.”

JONATHAN BUSH DESTIN

JULIE HELFERT PANAMA CITY BEACH

↓

PHOTOS COURTESY OF INDIVIDUALS

↓

STEPHEN SCHEIDIG MIRAMAR BEACH

“Pensacola is a special city filled with beauty, history and culture.

In the next 20 years, I’d love to see west and northeast Pensacola grow as much as downtown has.”

“I love where we’ve gone with our local food culture with all the specialized restaurants and locally owned options popping up within Pensacola. Twenty years from now, I think it’d be awesome if Pensacola became a nationally recognized foodie town.”

JUSTINE GUDMUNDSON-MCCAIN PENSACOLA

↓

↓

“I think in 20 years, to some people’s chagrin, we’re going to see more high-rise hotels, businesses and shopping developments. I think we’ll see more of a tourist destination that’s organized like a small city, as opposed to the small townfeel it has now. At this point, it’s definitely on the fast track.”

“I’d like to see a better connectivity between areas and a reinvestment in things that have been left behind.

We’ve done a fantastic job with Downtown Pensacola, and there are some great assets on the west side of town just waiting to be utilized.”

KATHY SUMMERLIN PENSACOLA EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

JON HILL PENSACOLA

February-March 2020

25

D AST

Special Edition 2000–20

MA

GAZIN

E

HINDSIGHT IS 2020

by DANIELLE J. BROWN

Babies born in the year 2000 will turn 20 this year. So will Emerald Coast Magazine. The year 2000 demonstrated a transitioning period for politics, sports and technology.

We reflect on these landmark events from the turn of the century — from events that were lost to time and progress to moments that stay at the forefront of our collective memory.

Here are 20 factoids from 2000.

➺ American Dialect Society named “chad” as word of the year, “web” Word of the Decade, “jazz” Word of the Century, and “she” Word of the Millennium. ➺ Top Song: “Breathe” by Faith Hill ➺ Top film: “How the Grinch Stole Christmas” starring Jim Carrey ➺ One gallon of gas: $1.28 ➺ Last new “Peanuts” comic strip ran in papers the day after creator Charlie Schulz’s death. ➺ The Beatles’ album “1” released on November 13. This album was released 30 years after the band’s breakup and collected most of their No. 1 hits into a single CD. ➺ Sydney, Australia, hosted the Summer Olympics and featured taekwondo and triathlon events for the first time.

← All 50 states celebrated Martin Luther King Jr. Day as a paid holiday for the first time.

26

February-March 2020 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

↑ “Hanging chads” and unpunched ballots lead to the Bush vs. Gore presidential election recount in Florida and began conversations on updating voting systems.

➺ Tiger Woods won

the U.S. Open in June. His wins in all four major golfing competitions during 2000–01 would coin the term “Tiger Slam.”

➺ Venus Williams

won at Wimbledon, the oldest running tennis tournament, for the first time.

➺ PC game “The

Sims” released on Feb. 4, creating a new interest in simulation gaming.

➺ Harry

Potter and the Goblet of Fire, the fourth book in the series, released on July 8.

➺ PlayStation 2 released in August, selling over 155 million consoles during its 13-year production run.

➺ The first camera phone, J-Phone J-SH04, released in Japan in November, maximum resolution of 0.11 megapixels. ➺ USB flash drives introduced with prices ranging from $30 to $70 depending on storage space and brand. ➺ Abercrombie & Fitch launched Hollister on July 27, a surfer-style twist on Abercrombie & Fitch clothing. ➺ Vladimir Putin elected Russian President on March 26. ➺ Mad Cow disease broke out in Britain and sparked global concern over food safety. ➺ Former Blockbuster CEO John Antioco rejected an offer to buy Netflix for $50 million.

PHOTOS BY PHIL SEARS (ELECTION RECOUNT) AND COURTESY PIXY.ORG/924901 (GRINCH), LIBRARY OF CONGRESS, NEW YORK WORLD-TELEGRAM & SUN COLLECTION, REPRODUCTION NUMBER LC-USZ62-126558 (MARTIN LUTHER KING) AND AMAZON.COM (HARRY POTTER)

S

EMER AL

CO

20 YE AR

OF

EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

February-March 2020

27

PROMOTION

Fort Walton Beach Medical Center Eyes Expansion FWBMC Announces Over $80 Million in Capital Expansion Projects for 2020

I

n 2020, Fort Walton Beach Medical Center (FWBMC) will launch several building and renovation projects that will benefit our community, patients and team members.

The first project will be the building of a freestanding emergency room in Navarre. With groundbreaking scheduled for January, FWBMC anticipates the facility will open in November 2020. This community outreach project will offer an 11-bed, free-standing ER that will provide a full range of testing and diagnostic services to patients, including a lab, X-ray, CAT scan and other vital services. In addition to providing emergency care closer to home for residents of Navarre, it will help relieve non-critical traffic in our main ER. This new free-standing ER will create approximately 30 new jobs in the community.

In February, the hospital will open a new home for several physician services groups. Four key physician groups — Neurosurgery, Urology, Gastrointestinal and OB/GYN — will move into the Emily Odom Building located at Mar Walt Drive and Racetrack Road. Using 15,000 feet in the existing building, the redesign of the space features the latest concept for multi-specialty physician offices. It uses a pod design that improves patient flow as well as workflow for the office staff.

In the second half of 2020, FWBMC will begin a multiphase project that adds licensed beds and brings the hospital’s total to 309. The project includes building a new two-story patient tower with the capability of expanding vertically to four floors. The new tower is designed to house 42 additional beds. It will be located at the back of the hospital between the outpatient entrance and the loading dock. As a result, the warehouse and loading dock will also be redesigned.

The first phase of the project will involve the expansion of the existing parking deck, which will include 120 additional parking spots. Phase two of the project will include the renovation and expansion of the cafeteria and kitchen. When complete, it will provide a new grill station, deli counter, hot station and a grab-and-go center. The improvements will provide more food choices in what will be a very nice, new addition for employees, physicians and guests. The third and final phase will be the construction of the patient tower described above.

All of these projects are part of Fort Walton Beach Medical Center’s focus on the future and its commitment to improve access to high-quality health care and service on behalf of our community.

F O RT WA LT O N B E A C H M E D I C A L C E N T E R F O R A P H Y S I C I A N R E F E R R A L O R M O R E I N F O R M AT I O N , C A L L ( 8 5 0 ) 8 6 4 - 0 2 1 3

28

February-March 2020 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

SMILES & LAUGHS BODY WELLNESS

SOCIAL EVENT PAMPERING

EVENING ENJOY LEARN

FUN

THURSDAY, MARCH 5, 2020 5:30PM – 8:30PM $50 PER TICKET The Henderson Beach Resort 200 Henderson Resort Way, Destin Heavy Hors d’oeuvres and Cocktails Fabulous Door Prizes | Raffle Business Casual Attire Must register by 2/27/2020 at: EmeraldCoastLNO.com or call 855-614-7274

BOTOX AND BODY SCULPTING

PURE AND COUTURE MAKEOVERS

LEARN ABOUT THE NEW KETO DIET

THE LATEST IN BREAST CANCER DETECTION

LEARN HOW TO “THRIVE” AFTER A NIGHT ON THE TOWN

GET PAMPERED

BY HENDERSON’S SALMANDER SPA

PLUS A LOT MORE!

EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

February-March 2020

29

PROMOTION

COLIN AND BLAIR GORMAN

Experience the Golf Cart Lifestyle

W

hen Roy Gorman purchased Dixielectricar in the early ’90s, he never imagined it would grow into what it is today. Established in 1979, Dixielectricar has been providing the Emerald Coast with E-Z-GO Golf Carts for 40 years. Although there’s a new generation of Gormans running the business these days, brothers Colin and Blair continue to provide high-quality carts and the excellent shopping experience Dixielectricar is known for. Their priority is to continue growing and enhancing the experience of purchasing and owning a luxury lifestyle vehicle.

A few years ago, the company relocated to Santa Rosa Beach to open a new, larger showroom and

DIXIELECTRICAR

30

service center. Within this location, Dixielectricar is able to offer customers the finest selection of gas and electric golf carts, accessories, access to a fully equipped service department and a place for seasonal guests to store carts.

In the market for a new golf cart?

Dixielectricar’s showroom is packed with the latest 2020 models, including a few carts equipped with upgrades you didn’t know you needed.

“We are excited with the products E-Z-GO has been putting out in the last few years,” said Colin Gorman.

“They have made more technological advances with their carts in the last three to four years than they have since the product was first introduced 70 years ago.”

Dixielectricar offers both gas and

electric carts. The 2020 models now feature lithium batteries that come with an unprecedented eight-year warranty.

This year, two new colors were also introduced into the lineup — a limited edition Seafoam and the very popular Ocean Gray, both perfect for the beach lifestyle their clients are looking to live.

3 5 2 5 U S 9 8 , S A N TA R O S A B E A C H | ( 8 5 0 ) 2 6 9 - 0 01 1 | D I X I E L E CT R I C A R.CO M

February-March 2020 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

Celebrate Every Occasion

Your All-In-One Venue

Wedding Day • Bridal Showers • Baby Showers Private Parties • Anniversaries LET US START PLANNING YOUR PERFECT EVENT

events@5elevenpalafox.com 850-637-1044

511 S. Palafox Street • 5elevenpalafox.com

EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

February-March 2020

31

PROMOTION

WINE WORLD MORE THAN JUST WINE

Wine World is a full-service retailer featuring not only a vast selection of fine wine, craft beer and premium spirits, but also specializing in artisan cheese, gift baskets and more. A variety of brand-name accessories and gadgets can be found on the shelves, perfect for holiday or birthday gifts.

2

1

1.

CUSTOM ENGRAVING

Turn a bottle of wine into a memorable keepsake with Wine World’s state-of-the-art laser engraving machine! Add a personal message to this premium label-free Napa Valley Cabernet. $29.99

2.

SWIG LIFE™ TUMBLERS

These triple-insulated, shatterproof tumblers are available in a variety of colors, shapes and sizes — perfect for the beach! $25.99

3

3.

ARTISAN CHEESE PLATTERS Customizable

platters for convenient pickup at any Wine World location.

Choose from over 150 cheeses, cured meats, paté, nuts, fruits, gourmet crackers, chocolates and more. From $39.99

4

4.

MUD PIE® CUTTING BOARDS & MORE Decorative

cutting boards, cheese knives and other beautiful accessories for the host with the most.

From $19.99

5.

THE QUEEN’S JEWELS® DECORATIVE GLASSES

5

Wine glasses shouldn’t be plain and boring, they should sparkle!

Each unique jeweled glass is handcrafted in the United States. $25.99 each

6

6.

GIFT BASKETS Choose from

a menu of pre-made baskets, or customize your own to fill with a variety of products sold at Wine World. From $49.99

GO 32

➺ Wine World 655 Grand Boulevard, Ste. D 100 | Miramar Beach | (850) 622-0802 | chanswineworld.com

February-March 2020 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

I’M OBSESSED WITH YOUR LASHES Using our patented application process, your stylist will attach lightweight eyelash extensions to each of your lashes to give you the most natural-looking lash line. Our styles can't be found anywhere else - and are customized to leave you looking your best.

NEW BUSINESS

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK | LOCATED IN: SHOPPES AT PARADISE ISLE 34940 Emerald Coast Parkway Suite 108 | (850) 331-7936 | Online booking at AmazingLashStudio.com EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

February-March 2020

33

Pretty.

Unexpected.

Our beauty sets the stage, our events steal the show.

34

VisitTallahassee.com February-March 2020 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

OUR TOP TOP 20 OUR 20

Giving Cover EMER AL

D

Special Edition

AST

20 YE AR

OF

CO

From able athletes and sparkling silver screen stars; from ambitious politicians and pioneering visionaries; from jazzy musicians to heroic linesmen; from creative confections to cute critters; from model citizens to supermodels … they all have a story to tell … and Emerald Coast Magazine covered it.

Here is another look at 20 of our cover stories.

S

Putting faces to names and places; giving voice to causes and concerns …

2000–20

MAG ZINE A

EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

February-March 2020

35

36

February-March 2020 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

Winter 2000–01 | Summer 2003

EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

February-March 2020

37

38

February-March 2020 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

Dec 2004/Jan 2005 | Aug/Sept 2006

EMERALD COAST VOLUME 7 NUMBER 4

MEET YOUR NEXT GOVERNOR

ALSO INSIDE Preparing for the future – without you 30A is culture, commerce and community Small-plate dining with tasty, trendy tapas

EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEWS

Meet Your Next Governor

The four front-runners sound off on issues vital to Florida and Emerald Coast voters EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

February-March 2020

39

EMERALD COAST

(*and not just on the Fourth of July!)

Fill out your 2007 BALLOT for Best Of the Emerald Coast

40

Four fabulous GETAWAYS for a quick weekend trip

Where to find the best holiday FIREWORKS and concerts

February-March 2020 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

001 cover.indd 1

8/14/07 4:29:57 PM

Jun/Jul 2007 | Jun/Jul 2008

Queens of the Court Six budding tennis stars rule their courts with drive and determination

Hometown Chow Down

Find Fresh Flavor and Local Lore Off the Beaten Path

Wellness In The Workplace

Local Businesses Discover Healthy Employees Yield Healthier Companies

The ‘Best Of’ Emerald Coast Fill Out Your Ballot For the Best Our Area Has to Offer

EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

February-March 2020

41

EMERALD COAST VOLUME 10 NUMBER 2

+

WHO ARE THE EMERALD COAST'S TOP SINGLES? THEY'RE ROMANTIC, PASSIONATE AND HUMOROUS. SEE WHO MADE OUR TOP 10 LIST

FINANCE FOR DUMMIES THE DAVISES

LOCAL AUTHOR BUZ LIVINGSTON PENS A FINANCIAL ADVICE BOOK JUST IN TIME

NORTHWEST FLORIDA'S WINERIES

VISIT THESE VINEYARDS FOR A TASTE OF FLORIDA'S GRAPES

Pioneering Spirits APRIL-MAY 2009

Robert and Daryl Davis created Seaside, the first new-urban neighborhood, and introduced the world to Scenic Highway 30-A

42

February-March 2020 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

Apr/May 2009 | Oct/Nov 2009

EMERALD COAST VOLUME 10 NUMBER 5

+

IMPROVING THE FORGOTTEN COAST IN A FLAT ECONOMY

BEST OF THE EMERALD COAST

LOCAL COFFEE SHOPS BLEND BOLD FLAVOR WITH ROBUST AMBIANCE

NEW LIGHTING DESIGNS FOR THE HOLIDAYS

OCTOBER-NOVEMBER 2009

THE TOP DOGS

WHO REALLY CUTS THE MUSTARD? READERS' CHOICES FOR THE YEAR'S BEST FOOD, SHOPPING, SERVICES & MORE!

“Best Hot Dog” winner Dave Del Donie, owner of Dave’s Dogs at Destin Commons.

EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

February-March 2020

43

Sweet Romance Love and chocolate conquer all in this special season of the heart

Spirited and spunky wedding stories

44

Five must-see stops on the Emerald Coast

February-March 2020 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

Surefire ways to renew your best you in 2011

DELICIOUS DESTIN Six tempting new hot spots and why you should try them

The emer ald CoasT maga zine

Feb/Mar 2011 | Apr/May 2011

A YEAR LATER Local leaders refuse to be defined by the oil spill crisis

THE ART OF TATTOOS Removing the stigma of permanent stains

A Fresh Style

Artist of the Year Allison Wickey paints the coast’s dreamy landscapes

EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

February-March 2020

45

All you need to know to bring an A-list celebrity home with you Michael Chou reveals just how chance became a delicious dream

THE EMER ALD COAST MAGA ZINE

Just Dance!

These studios will put a kick in your step

Creative Couples Three husband-and-wife duos share the secret to successfully balancing work, love and life 46

February-March 2020 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

Feb/Mar 2015 | Apr/May 2015

THE EMER ALD COAST MAGA ZINE

ADRENALINE JUNKIES GET HOOKED ON THE GREATEST THRILL UNDER THE SEA – SPEARFISHING Getting to know some of the EC’s leading health care providers

A look inside Seaside’s ‘Stairway to Heaven’

We serve up 15 of our favorite sandwiches on the Coast

The best of weddings — from coast to city to country

EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

February-March 2020

47

BARE IT ALL WE COME CLEAN ABOUT THE LATEST TUB AND SHOWER TRENDS GOING TO POT LOCAL CHEFS TELL US WHAT THEY USE TO GET COOKING

THE EMER ALD COAST MAGA ZINE ART STOP TAKE A TOUR OF AWESOME ART IN UNEXPECTED PLACES

Life Coaches These six mentors matter to local student-athletes on and off the field

48

February-March 2020 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

Shabby Chic Decor is the Soul of Vintage THE EMER ALD COAST MAGA ZINE

Aug/Sept 2015 | Oct/Nov 2015

+

Tennis Players With the Will to Rule the Courts

Talking Shop: The Retail Resurgence

2015

BEST of THE

EMERALD

COAST Celebrating 150 of your favorite places to shop, dine, relax & take care of business

EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

February-March 2020

49

PETS’ PEEVES

Animals work to master their owners

ROCKETT MAN

Magician wins over crowds with flair

GRAND OPENINGS We present doors galore you will adore

CITIZEN OF STYLE Her boots are made for beachin’

Celestial Space ARTIST CREATES WATERSOUND HOME NO ONE WANTS TO LEAVE

50

February-March 2020 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

Apr/May 2016 | Aug/Sept 2016

AT THE READY MEET THE

FEARLESS FOLKS

+

JONESIN’ FOR JAZZ

MOTOWN HOOKS UP WITH COASTAL INFLUENCES

WHO KEEP THE JUICE FLOWING

And BABy MAkes eight Growing family readily adapts to adoption the Best ice creAM It starts with a dairy herd in Marianna LeArn & serve Community serves school as classroom EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

February-March 2020

51

GRAZING THE BAR

Daniel Ryland helps aspiring athletes reach new heights in pole vault

SAVING OUR SHORES

Nourishment projects reverse impacts of beach erosion

2017 ‘BEST OF THE EMERALD COAST’ results are in

$3.95

www.emeraldcoastmagazine.com

52

OCT-NOV 2017

A product of Rowland Publishing, Inc.

February-March 2020 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

RAISING THE CURTAIN Opera extends its performances to reach student audiences in Pensacola

Bruce on the Loose

Destin Fishing Rodeo weighmaster regales crowds at scales with tales of the Gulf Plus, Meet the Charter Captains

’Tis the Season for Festive Fashion

See Our Guide to Gifts Galore

Oct/Nov 2017 | Dec 2017/Jan 2018

Beach Ball Drop Attracts Throngs

Championing Children Bubba Watson’s conscience is his caddy

Golfer Invests in Future Generations

Prayerful family decision benefits hospital EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

February-March 2020

53

NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS: YOUR BLUEPRINT FOR A PERFECT DAY

Florida Rooms

Fresh, breezy spaces where outdoors and and indoors go to meet

Owning It PENSACOLA’S FIRST LADY EMBRACES BOLD LOOKS

+

Objets D’art

Investing in creative works? Look to these artists, galleries and festivals

Gone South

Many decades ago, Nashville hit the beach and fell in lasting love 54

February-March 2020 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

Investigators tap into unseen world

LIVING BY THE DOCK OF THE BAY

For some, there’s no place like boat

THE CENTER OF HIS UNIVERSE

Rambling man landed in Seagrove

Apr/May 2018 | Oct/Nov 2018

THEY’RE SPOOKY SLEUTHS BY NIGHT

a high note for

Songwriters New festival will celebrate gifts of unsung musicians

$3.95

www.emeraldcoastmagazine.com

OCT-NOV 2018

2018 BEST OF THE EMERALD COAST results are in

A product of Rowland Publishing, Inc.

EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

February-March 2020

55

where are they now? we remember

Six Remarkable Locals

As part of our anniversary celebration, we reflect on the many people who have graciously shared their stories with us. After all these years, we still often wonder ‌ what happened to him? What became of her? Here, we catch up with six remarkable locals who have appeared in past editions of Emerald Coast Magazine to answer the question: Where are they now?

56

February-March 2020 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

PHOTO BY MICHAEL BOOINI

A glass artist-turned entrepreneur, a senior entrepreneur-turned rock guitarist, a charming but controversial developer, a middle school inventor, a 10-year-old globetrotting philanthropist, and a STEM education advocate tapped by the president of the United States. For two decades, Emerald Coast Magazine has filled its pages with interesting stories about compelling people making a difference in words and deeds — or sometimes causing a stir. We hope these stories inform and even entertain; if we are lucky, they inspire.

EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

February-March 2020

57

Mary Hong opens the arched wooden doors to her Tudor home in Destin, offers a welcoming hug and pours two glasses of fresh brewed iced tea from a Mason jar. She plops onto a white side chair crosses her long legs clad in cobalt blue skinny jeans, flicks her shiny brown hair off the shoulder of her Shard Shop T-shirt and says, “It all goes back to aviation.”

The previous day, this artist — who has a pilot rating and comes from a family of aeronauts — was It’s one floating on air — literally. Son, thing Kai, 13, stayed behind to work making his botany magic for a school and selling art. project, but his twin sister, Rain, I elevated that accompanied her wanderlustinto creating filled mother to Albuquerque, an experience New Mexico, to experience and took a risk something Mary has done in teaching and religiously for 30 years: crew and sharing what I fly in a hot air balloon. know. I believe “It all started because of art,” sharing of ideas Hong explains. “For 16 years, is how you I created everything for this grow. That is annual race — the pin, the community.” brochure, the poster — even the balloon!” She plucks her phone from her pocket to share highlights of her weekend adventure, and the friends who have known her longer than most. “I could be balloon rated, but when am I am going to fly?” she puzzles.

After retiring her flight attendant wings, Mary and her husband, John, settled in Destin in 2004, and Mary shifted her energy to art.

She developed and trademarked an art form that combines paint and glass on canvas, which she branded ShardWorx Art. Hong first appeared in Emerald Coast Magazine in 2012. Since then, her career has soared. In less than six years, she opened the Mary Hong gallery in Grayton Beach followed by six Shard Shops, or make-your-own-art boutiques, located in Grayton Beach, Destin, Miramar Beach, Nashville and New Orleans. Her artwork began to appear in high-end galleries and interior design showrooms worldwide. Retailers around the world, including Neiman Marcus and Horchow, began selling giclee Emerald Coast prints of her work. And … she was named Magazine, Apr-May 2012 2014 South Walton Artist of the Year.

February-March 2020 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

PHOTO BY MICHAEL BOOINI

Mary Hong 58

This Artist’s First ‘Glass Act’ is Still Flying High

During the same time her career was soaring, Hong experienced her greatest sorrow after John was diagnosed with a terminal illness. They traveled to find the best health care treatment possible. After a valiant fight, her husband of 27 years died in September 2019.

While living in Hawaii, Hong learned her craft from a master glass artist. She raised eyebrows for openly sharing her knowledge and expertise through workshops and classes. In fact, she was the first Emerald Coast artist to livestream an art class on Facebook.

“It’s one thing making and selling art. I elevated that into creating an experience and took a risk in teaching and sharing what I know,” she says. “I believe sharing of ideas is how you grow. That is community.”

The future is bright for this entrepreneurial artist.

In addition to revamping websites, ramping up retail sales of her art kits and expanding The Shard Shop franchise, she will continue to share her talent by leading nine three-hour classes at the 26th Annual Glass Craft Expo in Las Vegas April 1–5, 2020.

She also plans to enhance the Shard-On-The-Go program, which brings Hong’s art-making experience to interested groups, and grow Glass for Good, Hong’s community fundraising initiative.

Give Mary Hong a challenge and she will rise to meet it. Like the glass shards she shapes into original artwork, she also is multifaceted and sparkles from the unique way she captures the light. — Zandra Wolfgram EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

February-March 2020

59

60

February-March 2020 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

PHOTO BY STEPHAN VANCE

For the select few who, during childhood, are lucky enough to experience an event so momentous that it sparks passion and predetermines his or her’s calling, time is on their side.

Destin native Andy Herrmann is one of them. In 2010, a family beach day churned waves of innovation in a then 11-year-old Herrmann’s mind, giving rise to the invention of the Shore Surfer.

Now rebranded the Kid Slider, a decision, Herrmann said, to boost its appeal in the national market, the sled-type toy is equipped with handles and knee pads to allow children to safely glide across the shore, snow or any other smooth, sloped surface. It’s a quick ticket to fun — especially for those on the coast too young (or uncoordinated) to master the art of skim boarding.

Two years ago, the Kid Slider entered a licensing deal with a California-based company, and the Herrmanns now receive royalties for the invention. It’s a direction, according to him, that the family wanted to go all along.

“We took it as far as we thought we could,” Herrmann says. “And the new company has found a way to take it further, so that it’s still being sold today.”

But it wasn’t so much as early exposure into the business world that tailored Herrmann into the senior at the University of West Florida (UWF) that he is today. Once he got a taste of what it was like to see a product from conception to completion, Herrmann knew he wanted to be a mechanical engineer.

“I can still remember coming home from the beach that day and sketching the design of what I wanted the Kid Slider to look like,” Herrmann laughs. “And design and manufacturing is exactly what I see for myself — ideally, in the airline industry.”

Presently, Herrmann works at the Sea3D Laboratory of the UWF Innovation Institute, an additive manufacturing lab in downtown Pensacola.

“Basically, people come in and pitch us their ideas, and we do the prototyping,” Herrmann explains. “Using our software and different 3D printers and plastics, we can create for them a physical model of their designs.”

He describes his niche as a wonderful “stepping stone” to what will hopefully lead to aviation internships and a career.

Attending college in a city considered the home of naval aviation is the perfect fit for Herrmann now, but eventually, he intends to spread his wings.

“I can see myself going anywhere there’s a big aviation presence, anywhere the job takes me,” Herrmann says. “Right now, I’m happy to be working for people who have genuine ideas. The Emerald Coast combination of school and real work experience is Magazine, Apr–May 2014 helping me get there.” — Hannah Burke

“I can still remember coming home from the beach that day and sketching the design of what I wanted the Kid Slider to look like.

And design and manufacturing is exactly what I see for myself — ideally, in the airline industry.”

EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

Andy Herrmann

Young Innovator is Engineering His Future at UWF

February-March 2020

61

Dr. Paul Hsu, for decades an opportunist in the most positive sense of the word, is today dedicated to creating opportunities for the region he calls home and the people who live there.

“I have lived in Okaloosa County for almost 40 years,” says Hsu, a Taiwanese immigrant who arrived in the United States as a 26-year-old student in 1976. “I consider “I have it to be my hometown. I love lived in this area, and I want to make Okaloosa it possible for young people to County for find good jobs and stay here.” almost 40 years.

Hsu made an appearance I consider it to be in Emerald Coast Magazine in my hometown.

2005, not long after selling I love this area, Manufacturing Technology and I want to Inc. (MTI), which engineered make it possible electronics for weapons for young people systems. He had launched the to find good jobs business in 1984. and stay here.”

“I really enjoy spotting opportunities and creating businesses,” Hsu, who has founded several enterprises, told 850 Magazine last year. “If I were 40, I’d probably start another one.”

Instead, he has established the Hsu Education Foundation, which is dedicated to stimulating interest in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) careers among young minds. He intends that the foundation, located in Fort Walton Beach, serve as a pipeline partner with high-tech industries such as aerospace by helping supply them with the workforce they need.

Calling it an “uncut diamond,” Hsu views the Bob Sikes Airport in Crestview as a key to the future economic development of Okaloosa County. He is a partner in the Crestview Technology Air Park, located on 20 acres near the end of the airport’s 8,000-foot runway.

February-March 2020 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

PHOTO BY ERICK LIMA

Dr. Paul Hsu 62

Engineering Businessman Gives Back to His Adopted Hometown

Two 50,000-square-foot buildings at the tech park unite Hsu’s past with what he sees as the region’s future.

The buildings once housed MTI’s machining and welding operations, but are well-suited to host schools to conduct training for airframe and power plant (A&P) technicians, aircraft technicians and pilots.

At this writing, Hsu is working with Northwest Florida State College to bring about an A&P school, and his foundation already is making high school students aware of the career opportunities it will represent.

“In the next 20 years, the world is likely to require hundreds of thousands of pilots and technicians,” Hsu says. “In that period, it will produce 40,000 new aircraft, manned and unmanned. Bob Sikes Airport is central to an opportunity for Northwest Florida to align itself with an industry having great growth potential and to really put itself on the technology map.”

Hsu’s personal priority these days is his six grandchildren, all of whom live with their parents in California’s Silicon Valley.

They will not have fallen far from the technology tree. — Steve Bornhoft

Emerald Coast Magazine, Aug-Sept 2005

EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

February-March 2020

63

64

February-March 2020 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

PHOTO BY ERICK LIMA

When featured in Emerald Coast Magazine in 2011, Ally Woodard, a then 10-year-old activist from Miramar Beach, was fresh from Haiti.

She traveled there as an ambassador for the Art Miles Mural Project, a mission promoting a culture of peace, social equality and art advocacy, and delivered hundreds of handpainted shoes to children in need.

Woodard, now 19, remains in her Art Miles ambassadorial role and expects to represent its United States unit at the 2020 Summer Olympics in Tokyo, Japan, for an intercultural project showcase.

An adolescence of activism has allowed Woodard to touch the hearts of the disadvantaged in parts of Asia, Europe, Australia and Egypt, but it’s Casa Hogar Elim, a small orphanage in Nuevo Laredo, Mexico, that finds a permanent place in hers.

“I first visited the orphanage when I was 11 and have continued to go back and even spend a few birthdays there,” says Woodard. “These are some of the happiest, most incredible and inspiring kids in the world.

They feel like my family.”

As a teen attending Niceville High School, Woodard yearned to share their story and put pen to paper. In 2017 — Woodard’s senior year — she published “Mama Lupita’s Happy Orphanage,” an illustrated children’s book from which Casa Hogar Elim received all profits.

Around this time, Woodard found a creative outlet via “We are All Connected” at AllyWoodard.com, a series

of stories and self-conducted interviews with people who “have the knowledge and ideas to help us better understand each other and create a safer, more inclusive world.”

Naturally, Woodard finds herself an English major at the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, where she received two congressional nominations from Congressman Matt Gaetz and former U.S. Sen. Bill Nelson to attend and run cross country and track.

At this writing, Woodard is at home on medical leave recovering from muscular issues and injuries but is optimistic to return in January 2020. She is finding time to work on her ideas and shape her future which, not unlike most, differ from that of when we are children.

At 10, Woodard was quoted saying she wished to become “an actress … or Secretary of State.”

“Acting isn’t something I’ve continued with, but it laid such a great foundation for my public speaking skills and equipped me with the tools I needed to speak at the United Nations and other charity events,” Woodard says.

She is uncertain of a specific career path but hopes to further develop her writing and find something that employs her creativity and inspires others to discover theirs.

“Growing up, I’ve always put a lot of pressure on myself,” says Woodard. “But I always told myself that if I could go to sleep at night knowing I made at least one person’s life a bit better, then I’ve won the day. As long as I can do that, I think I’ll be happy.” — Hannah Burke

Growing up, I’ve always put a lot of pressure on myself. But I always told myself that if I could go to sleep at night knowing I made at least one person’s life a bit better, then I’ve won the day.

As long as I can do that, I think I’ll be happy.”

Ally Woodard

Teen Author, Ambassador is Fueled by Activism

Emerald Coast Magazine, Feb-Mar 2011

EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

February-March 2020

65

In 2003, an area just east of the Destin Bridge had been deemed blighted. No building permits had been issued there for 10 years.

Enter Peter Bos. Arguably the chief shaper of Destin, he People dramatically changed the area’s are happy landscape with the development to get of his upscale Emerald Grande development condominium resort. because it means Its realization had much to year-round jobs, do with the decision by the but eventually Florida Restaurant & Lodging they retire and, Association to single out Bos when they do, with its 2011 Hotelier of the they want their Year award. town to become Bos has made a career of a retirement altering land- and beachscapes. community; In the 1970s, he helped manage they don’t realize Sandestin Golf and Beach the vibrancy Resort when it was owned by required to keep a Dutch corporation, Lakeland it up. You need to BV. He then acquired and achieve balance added to the project for 10 years among the age beginning in 1981. groups so you He recalls Sandestin’s early can regenerate.” days, when Bos saw to it that employees, harvested from inland farming communities, received literacy training, hygiene classes, showers, toothpaste and soap.

“We’ve come a long way,” he says.

Bos developed and is proud of HarborWalk Village and the Regatta Bay Golf & Yacht Club, and he has engineered the Legendary Marine success story. Destinbased Legendary merged in 2014 with Singleton Marine of Atlanta to form OneWater Marine Holdings LLC, one of the largest boat dealers in the world and the operator of 80 stores.

Today, Bos, who appeared on an Emerald Coast Magazine cover in 2004, and his Legendary Inc. — a real estate, development and property management company — are focused on a venture called Let’s Start Living.

“We are creating first-class independent living, assisted living and memory care facilities,” Bos said. “They will resemble a high-end Marriott hotel. Some newer senior

February-March 2020 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

PHOTO BY MICHAEL BOOINI

Peter Bos 66

At 73, this Coastal Visionary has Shifted His Attention to Senior Living

living facilities are nice, but many are like mini-storage for old people. We are raising the bar.”

The first such “village,” Bos called it, is under construction. A joint venture with Blake Management Group of Jackson, Mississippi, it is located in Miramar Beach next to the outlet center.

Additional facilities will be located in Montgomery, Alabama; Nashville; South Florida; and elsewhere in the Southeast.

At 73, Bos hasn’t slowed down, but conceding the inevitable, he has begun “to shift Legendary to a mode where it be less dependent upon me.”

And, he has concerns for the near future of Destin.

“Destin may go through the same growth situation that most resort communities do,” he said. “People are happy to get development because it means year-round jobs, but eventually they retire and, when they do, they want their town to become a retirement community; they don’t realize the vibrancy required to keep it up. You need to achieve balance among the age groups so you can regenerate.” — Steve Bornhoft

Emerald Coast Magazine, Apr-May 2004

EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

February-March 2020

67

Edwin Watts 68

Golf Retail Pioneer, Classic Rocker and Family Man with a Heart of Gold “I loved being in charge!” Edwin Watts exclaims with a smile that lights up his blue eyes framed with a white Mulligans band baseball cap. It’s Tuesday in The Mulligans’ clubhouse. There’s wine and beer in the fridge, state-of-the-art sound equipment and eight friends who gather each week to practice a religion that transcends their vastly different backgrounds — classic rock.

Watts, 74, first appeared in Emerald Coast Magazine in 2005 as one of “five people who define success.” He graciously invited We play Emerald Coast Magazine to join good music him before a fall practice session people to catch us up on an extraordinary want to hear, life and career that hasn’t appeared we play music to need any mulligans (second you can dance chances) as far as we could tell. to and we create First on his list of hand-lettered an atmosphere notes is a roster of his family. His where people can and wife Mary’s greatest joys are gather together their five grandchildren — Erin, and connect.

Ashley and Thomas, via son John Watts, and Laney and Brooke, via daughter Lisa Lewis.

By all accounts, Watts was born a businessman. This Florida boy recalls biking to his neighborhood gas station to inquire about work. At 13, he finally got his first job caddying at a Fort Walton Beach golf course.

“I loved it,” he says. “I loved everything about it.”

Watts worked hard, moved up quickly and at 22 was hired by the city of Fort Walton Beach to run its municipal golf course. Having strengths his boss didn’t created an opportunity, and Watts seized it. “I just took over,” he says.

“I was good at business.”

It was 1968. He worked seven days a week and gradually grew that first shop to an empire of retail golf stores throughout the Southeast bearing his name. The notion of a golf pro shop located anywhere but a golf course was a novel and innovative concept.

Watts is a modest man, but when coaxed, he admits a few secrets to his unparalleled success. They sold goods people couldn’t get elsewhere. They were good at direct marketing. They formed cooperative partnerships. And they tried new things, such as international quick shipping.

“We practically grew the business tenfold doing that,” he says.

He sold the business in 2003 but retained the name and interest in the company’s real estate. Edwin

February-March 2020 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

Emerald Coast Magazine, Aug-Sept 2005

PHOTO BY ERICK LIMA

Watts Golf continues to be a successful retail brand with 85 stores. Son John now manages the day-to-day dealings of the family’s business interests in commercial properties and investments.

Watts is considered a pioneer in the golf retail industry, perhaps in part because he never lost sight of his most valuable asset: people. “If you take care of the customer and your people and work hard, things will happen,” he assures. “Our employees were loyal because they were rewarded. Even the kid unpacking boxes had an incentive. It’s the right thing to do, so why not do it?”

When The Mulligans formed 13 years ago, Watts realized his childhood dream of playing guitar in a rock band. The longevity of the band reveals another secret. “I operate the band like a business,” he confesses. Each band member earns a salary, has proper equipment and a “rock star” worthy rehearsal space.

And, like his namesake golf company, Watts believes The Mulligans also fill a void. “We play good music people want to hear, we play music you can dance to and we create an atmosphere where people can gather together and connect,” he says.

Between his legacy as a golf industry trailblazer and living his dream of playing guitar in a rock band, it’s not surprising what Edwin Watts would like to be remembered most for — his family.

“I love life. I love my family and everything I’m doing,” he says.

With that, he took his seat on a stool, grabbed his Fender Telecaster and began tuning up. The Mulligans rehearsed a handful of classics, including Neil Young’s “Heart of Gold” — an appropriate anthem for a man who is a true rock star in all senses of the word. — Zandra Wolfgram

EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

February-March 2020

69

100 Things we about the EC

We choose to live, work and play in the Emerald Coast because it has a distinct sense of place that gives us a true sense of belonging.

LOCALS WILL TELL YOU THAT THE QUALITY OF LIFE HERE

is unlike any other, not because of the sugar-sand beaches, though they are spectacular. Not because of the weather, though the Southern tropical climate is desirable all year. It is surely because of the people who give this little patch of Florida personality plus. They are our earnest, hardworking friends, family and neighbors who pour their hearts and souls into all they do — including delicious restaurants, quaint retail

70

February-March 2020 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

PHOTOS BY KANSAS PITTS AND JACQUELINE WARD IMAGES (1)

BY ZANDRA WOLFGRAM

shops and service-centric businesses they own and operate, and the exceptional professional services they dutifully provide to each of us day in and day out.

After 20 years, Emerald Coast Magazine is still proud to be the first consumer magazine on the scene dedicated to celebrating all the Emerald Coast has to offer through compelling stories about local people, places and things that make the EC the distinctive place it is.

We would not be here without the hard work of our talented publishing team, the loyal support of our readers and the financial support of our advertisers, so to our extended Emerald Coast family, we offer a heartfelt thank you for 20 terrific years.

In celebration of our 20th anniversary, we decided to mark the occasion with a few “love notes,” so here are 100 reasons we still love the Emerald Coast: ↓

1

EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

Biting into a bit of history with a grouper sandwich at Dewey Destin’s.

February-March 2020

71

Two

Ice skating at The Village of Baytowne Wharf.

3 The local excitement during college football season.

4 Homemade ice cream from Southern Craft Creamery.

6 “The World’s Luckiest Fishing Village” tagline.

7 The quaint, historic library in DeFuniak Springs.

8 The wonderful Wyland Whaling Wall at Legendary Marina.

5

Turtle Bob and the gopher turtles at the E.O. Wilson Biophilia Center.

72

12 Strolling folk art galleries and studios all along the coast.

9 Exploring Fort Walton Beach as a zombie during Halloween.

13 The romantic wooden bridges on 30A.

10 Any of the dozens of Italian ice flavors at GS Gelato.

14 All the outdoor amphitheaters along the coast.

11 Shopping for quirky keepsakes at Banana Bart’s.

February-March 2020 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

15 The “running of the bulls” event in Pensacola!

16 The Hands Across the Sands movement that is now a global effort.

19 Our world-class tennis centers and the talented pros who teach us their tips.

17 The Destin Charity Wine Auction Foundation’s mission to help local children’s charities.

20 The charming Camp Walton one-room schoolhouse.

18 Knowing the highest elevation in Florida is in Walton County on Britton Hill.

21 The fact that 30A is a nationally designated scenic highway.

22 A dirty martini at the Marlin Grill.

31 The things we learn during the speaker series at the Crestview library.

40 Getting a free pass to the beach at Henderson Beach Park.

46 The old-fashioned toys in the gift shop in Historic Pensacola Village.

32 Channeling our inner Jack Sparrow on the Buccaneer pirate ship.

41 Cooling off at Big Kahuna’s in the summertime.

47 The you-pick berry farms in Baker.

33 The underwater diving adventure of the USS Oriskany.

23 PHOTOS BY SCOTT HOLSTEIN (5), MICHAEL BOOINI (23), KURT LISCHKA (52) AND COURTESY OF SANDESTIN GOLF AND BEACH RESORT (2)

The yum factor at The Yard Milkshake Bar.

24 We love that Dog Daze is the Lollapalooza on the pup circuit.

27 The proximity of the Gulf Stream that brings us the bounty of the Gulf.

25 Mountain Film Festival at WaterColor and how it takes us away into the magic of the silver screen.

28 Saying “I Do” on the beach is a dream that never gets old.

26 Shopping old-style stores like Modica Market, Red Bay Grocery and the Little Big Store.

29 Original gifts at The Zoo Gallery.

30 Custom pet portraits hand painted by Donna Burgess.

34 An afternoon at Eden State Garden.

35 The sparkle that the Celebration of Lights in DeFuniak Springs adds to the holiday season.

36 Preservationists like Dennis Ray in DeFuniak Springs.

37 Getting our organic on at the many new farmers markets.

42 The dedicated and compassionate staff at Emerald Coast Wildlife Refuge.

43 Fireworks frenzy!

From The Village of Baytowne Wharf to the Boardwalk on Okaloosa Island, there is often a weekly celebration in the sky above.

44 The big CocaCola bottle at The Buccaneer Gift Shop.

45 The Flight Academy in Pensacola.

48 Promenading at the Mardi Gras parade, the holiday parade and the Destin Boat parade.

49 David Seering, Michael J. Thomas, Cheryl Jones and the many other longtime class acts.

50 The intimate gala evenings at Seagar’s Prime Steaks & Seafood.

51 Festivals and fetes from wine and beer to seafood and barbecue.

38 Performing arts organizations that cater to families, such as Emerald Coast Theatre Company.

39 Cupcakes by the Sea, KaraBoo, Stacey Bakes, Henrietta’s — we love all the cute cupcake and bake shops on the coast!

Fifty–two

The visual feast of Digital Graffiti at Alys Beach.

EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

February-March 2020

73

Fifty-Three 54 Catching a Broadway show at the Mattie Kelly Arts Center.

55 The classic beauty of the cottages in Seaside.

56 The handy beach flag safety system.

57 Shopping outdoors in Seaside.

74

Standing in line at Joe Patti’s Seafood is somehow fun.

60 All the new babies at the Gulf Breeze Zoo! 61 The giant eagles nest at the Wildlife Sanctuary of Northwest Florida.

62 Driving over the William T. Marler bridge in Destin and putting everything in perspective.

58 The choo choo in Destin Commons for wee ones.

63 The interactive exhibits at the Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park and Gulf World.

59 Walking the boardwalk at Turkey Creek.

64 The newsstands painted by local artists.

February-March 2020 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

65 Celebrating National Record Store Day at Central Records in Seaside.

66 That we can have dinner date night at Carmike Cinema’s Boulevard 10.

67 Yoga on the beach and Pilates on paddleboards.

68 Deep-sea fishing, bay fishing, shore fishing, pier fishing and, well, fishing.

69 Zooming on go-karts at The Track.

70

People-watching while sipping a cappuccino at Amavida in Seaside.

71 The pageantry of Billy Bowlegs.

74 The relaxing artsy vibe of Ruskin Place.

72 Having more than 1,000 holes of golf to choose from.

75 Strolling along the Destin Harbor.

73 An afternoon at The Landing in Fort Walton Beach.

76 Watching the fish weigh-ins during the many exciting fishing tournaments.

83 Local bands like Heritage, who never forget their roots or fans.

84 Cheese pillows at Sailor’s Grill in Navarre are always a bite of heaven.

94 The Greek Festival, the Italian Festival, the Salsa Festival …

86 Guessing the time of the sunset at Bud & Alley’s.

95 The Best of the Emerald Coast winners’ awards celebration.

PHOTOS BY SCOTT HOLSTEIN (70), MATT BURKE (53) AND TIM SKIPPER PHOTOGRAPHY (100)

88 Being able to bike nearly anywhere on 30A.

78 Playing a hand of poker while boating during the Emerald Coast Poker Run. 79 The Thanksgiving tradition at Harbor Docks.

80 Snorkeling the jetties.

81 Gulf Islands National Seashore, pure and simple.

82 Backyard throwdowns like Forrest Williams Backyard Boogie and Chi Chi Miguel.

96 The photographers along the EC who stay here though they could work anywhere they choose.

97 All of the locally owned “mom and pop” shops and restaurants.

93 The blessing of the fleet.

85 Inspiring young inventors like Andy Hermann continue to impress us.

87 Being able to order a fattening grilled cheese and healthy organic juice from side-by-side Airstreams.

77 Eco tours in Walton County.

92 Local reports from community newspapers like “The Seaside Times” and local stations such as 30A Radio.

98 Delicious local craft beer lovingly brewed right here.

99 Channeling our favorite superheroes at Pensacon.

100 The fact that we have fashion designers like Nicole Paloma who stand up to any fashion house in New York, Paris or Milan.

89 The dedicated health care providers who give us much more than most small town communities have.

90 Homemade saltwater taffy from The Candymaker.

91 The local songwriters who help tell stories through music.

After 20 years, Emerald Coast Magazine may not be the only one, but we will always be proud to say we were the first magazine dedicated to telling the stories of the Emerald Coast. And if you want to say we’re the best, well, we won’t exactly argue.

EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

February-March 2020

75

PROMOTION

GOOD MEDICINE

A

THE TROCKS INFUSE BALLET WITH COMEDY

s its ballet master, Raffaele Morra watches performances of Les Ballets Trockadero de Monte Carlo surrounded by audience members and immersed in their laughter and applause.

For 16 years, he was a dancer with the company, absorbed by his roles when the lights came up. These days, seated out front, Morra said, “I am reminded that I am part of something really important. Come to a performance and, for about two hours, you forget all of your troubles.

It’s good medicine.”

An all-male drag troupe, the New York City-based Trocks, as they are informally called, were established in 1974, just five years after members of the LGBTQ community clashed with police in Greenwich Village in the Stonewall Riots and spawned a civil rights movement.

The company’s mission, Morra said, was then as it is today: “to entertain people through the freedom of expression and the freedom of being ourselves.”

Morra trains dancers, warms them

up prior to performances and sees to the company’s repertory, which ranges from Tchaikovsky’s “Swan Lake” to “Stars and Stripes Forever” with music by John Philip Sousa.

While he is inflexible about steps and choreography, he encourages dancers to arrive at their own interpretations of their characters.

That latitude allows for comedy that also is achieved, Morra said, through gestures, facial expressions and the exaggeration of movements.

“We put every style under a loupe and build humor into the choreography,” Morra said. “It gives our shows a lot of energy.”

The Trocks attract people who might not otherwise attend a ballet, serving as their introduction to the art form and, many times, leading them to later see traditional performances.

They will be in Tallahassee on Feb. 8 as part of Florida State University’s Opening Nights series of live performances. The audience can expect a show both hilarious and technically strong.

“We are dancers, after all, who spent many years in ballet schools

trying to achieve perfection in the steps,” Morra said. “Our challenge is to maintain the refinement of a ballerina while allowing for powerful male jumps and turns.”

Morra recalled a performance that exhibited the combination of masculinity and femininity in unintended fashion. A dancer in a full-length dress performed moves so robustly that he ripped his costume down the back, revealing the pink flowered panties he wore beneath.

Given the nature of Trocks performances, however, he was able to take the wardrobe malfunction in stride.

O P E N I N G N I G H T S AT F S U 2 2 2 S . C O P E L A N D S T. | ( 8 5 0 ) 6 4 4 - 7 6 7 0 | O P E N I N G N I G H T S . F S U . E D U / E V E N T S

76

February-March 2020 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

February-March 2020

77

PROMOTION

Juried Art Competition

During the two-day event, people from around the Big Bend area and southeast region of the country come to see talented artists who have been juried into the festival, each competing for more than $10,000 in awards.

North Florida’s Premier Fine Art Festival is a Tallahassee Legacy

C

elebrating the arts is a Tallahassee tradition. Now celebrating its 20th year, the Chain of Parks Art Festival produced by LeMoyne Arts will be held Saturday and Sunday, April 18–19, 2020, at the Bloxham, Lewis and Randolph “Chain of Parks” in downtown Tallahassee.

“The 20-year mark is a huge milestone for us,” said Festival Chair Kelly Dozier. “Planning this incredible event alongside passionate volunteers for two decades has been a lot of fun and a labor of love. We enjoy bringing such fabulous artists to our community and booking new, exciting talent. Each year, the festival has grown more popular and even more competitive for artists to participate — seeing it evolve into the community cornerstone has been such a joy.”

The festival will be open all weekend, 10 a.m.–5 p.m., with an evening groove on Saturday from 5:30–7:30 p.m. with Tallahassee Night Live! performing. Admission is free of charge and open to the public. Proceeds from the festival benefit LeMoyne Arts’ educational and exhibition programs.

Announced by Sunshine Artist™ magazine in their September issue, LeMoyne’s Chain of Parks Art Festival is ranked No. 3 in the Best 100 Fine Art and Design Festivals in the country! Each year, the magazine names the “100 Best Fine Art & Design Shows” in the country, and Tallahassee’s Chain of Parks Art Festival has made the list five years in a row. Sunshine Artist™ is the leading publication for art and craft show exhibitors, promoters and patrons in the United States.

On its 20th anniversary, the Chain of Parks Art Festival is introducing a new and exciting dimension featuring four national street chalk artists creating original works of art at the festival! The guest chalk artists will beautify the streets with elaborate 3-dimensional pieces, focusing on North Florida themes.

These artistic illusions will make for a fun photo op and will be an interactive experience for the whole family.

2020 Cover Artist

The 2020 cover artist is Tallahassee local Kelly Rysavy. Her work, “Under the Oaks,” will grace the cover of the festival program in addition to being featured on festival souvenirs available for purchase.

CHAIN OF PARKS ART FESTIVAL | 125 N. GADSDEN ST., TALLAHASSEE, FL | (850) 222-8800 | CHAINOFPARKS.COM You can also follow and engage with Chain of Parks on Facebook, Instagram andTwitter (@chainofparks).

78

February-March 2020 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

PHOTO COURTESY OF BOB O’LARY

Chain of Parks Art Festival Shines in 20th Year

3D Chalk Art Addition

GROUNDS MANAGEMENT • COMMERCIAL INSTALLATION RESIDENTIAL INSTALLATION • CONSULTATION AND DESIGN BAY LANDSCAPE PO Box 9548, Panama City Beach, FL 32417 Phone (850) 249-0980 | Fax (850) 249-1005 www.bay-landscape.net

EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

February-March 2020

79

Magnolia Grill fort walton beach

tom & peggy rice, proprietors

157 Brooks Street SE (850) 302-0266

www.magnoliagrillfwb.com

steaks • seafood • italian lunch bridal luncheons

80

• dinner

• wedding rehearsals • unique receptions

February-March 2020 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

WOMEN’S

PROFESSIONAL PROFILES

March is Women’s History Month, which is dedicated to

commemorating, honoring and encouraging the study, observance and celebration of the vital role of women in America’s economic, political and social history. In recognition of this monumental month, Emerald Coast Magazine’s Women’s Professional Profiles feature women making an impact on the Emerald Coast region. Where each woman is diverse in their careers, interests, talents and lifestyles, they converge as leaders. These talented, passionate, determined and charismatic women are bettering their industries and communities. Their stories inspire and give insight into the vast value women are constantly contributing to societies throughout the world. Read on to learn about these true wonder women.

WOMEN’S

PROFESSIONAL PROFILES

The Junior League of the Emerald Coast (850) 460-8980

82

JLEC.org

February–March 2020 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

T

o look at the members of the Junior League of the Emerald Coast is to see a diverse group of women. These women range in age from 21 to 81 and have varying ethnic and cultural backgrounds. They are business professionals, CEOs, stay-at-home moms, wives, single ladies and everything in between.

With their lives threading them in different directions, what bonds and unites them is their mission to make an impact on the lives of women and children in their communities.

Each member of the JLEC aims to promote volunteerism, develop their strengths and potential, and improve their communities through effective action and the leadership efforts of trained volunteers.

“We want each member to feel they have joined a group of like-minded women who have a heart and a passion for growing, helping and developing the areas they live in,” said Bethany Worley, president of the JLEC. “It is also my hope that they will each obtain the training and skills they need in order to better

themselves personally and professionally.”

The women of the JLEC hone their skills and pursue their interests by serving on boards, leading organization groups and planning philanthropic events.

The JLEC’s largest philanthropic endeavor is the Child Clothing Project. The JLEC partners with Target to provide new clothes to over 400 children in Okaloosa and Walton counties for the school year.

The Child Clothing Project expanded into a yearlong way of giving back by placing Child Clothing Closets in six schools. If a child comes to school with holes in their clothing, needs a jacket in the winter or just lacks clothes in general, a teacher or guidance counselor discreetly takes the child to the closet to select new clothes.

“Something as essential as a new item of clothing can decrease insecurities and boost confidence in a child, ultimately bettering their life,” said Worley.

Throughout each year, the JLEC hosts multiple events to help raise funds for the Child Clothing Project, including hosting the Best of the Emerald Coast alongside Emerald Coast Magazine, The Rock the Road 5K/10K and the Down and Derby Festival. All of these events are open to the public and encourage community members to give back.

While the JLEC has always held a mission of philanthropy, Worley feels a lot has changed since the league’s beginnings in 1964, especially people’s perceptions.

“The league is not simply a place to drink wine and have fellowship; we are powerful and impactful women in our community, and for many years, the community has realized and respected our mission,” she said.

The women of the Junior League of the Emerald Coast are determined and empathetic as they inspire change in our community.

PHOTO BY DAN GARNER PHOTOGRAPHY

PHOTO BY GINA PANZARELLA HODSON

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Bethany Worley, president of the JLEC

EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

February–March 2020

83

WOMEN’S

PROFESSIONAL PROFILES

Laura Pentel-Klang Matthews & Jones Law Firm

S

omewhere over the rainbow, Laura Pentel-Klang’s grandparents decided to settle in Walton County. It’s true; while driving over the Destin Bridge, they knew they had found their home when a beautiful rainbow spanned from the Gulf of Mexico to Choctawhatchee Bay. As a third-generation resident of Walton County, PentelKlang keeps her heritage at the forefront in her role as a transactional attorney at Matthews & Jones and throughout her many civic involvements.

Her family did not simply live in South Walton, they contributed to the community and invested in it. Laura's grandfather worked as a surveyor at Eglin, ran the math lab and started Pentel Real Estate.

When her grandfather passed away, her father, Larry Pentel, took over the firm and worked as a volunteer firefighter. Through the real estate firm, her parents made affordable housing for our local work force a priority.

She grew up in Walton County on a dirt road in the woods, fishing and surfing in the nearby waters. She took notice of her family’s love for their community and decided to do her part when she grew up.

“It comes with a feeling of great responsibility to continue to grow with the community and to be a good steward,” said Pentel-Klang. “I am fortunate to be able to help shape our county's growth in some small way.”

4475 Legendary Drive

84

February–March 2020 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

Destin

Laura handles real estate, business law and estate planning. She assists clients in three areas: the acquisition, development and sale of real property (both residential and commercial); corporate formation, corporate compliance, sales and acquisitions of businesses; and simple estate planning.

“I hope to continue the family tradition and make a positive contribution to the community — especially to affordable housing in our area,” said Pentel-Klang.

Laura also serves in many community-oriented roles. She serves on the board of directors of Fresh Start for Children and Families Inc., a nonprofit that assists working homeless families in the Walton-Okaloosa area. She currently serves as pro bono counsel for several area nonprofits.

“Real estate, along with serving others, is my passion,” said Pentel-Klang. “I have my dream job. I am grateful to our community that I have been allowed the privilege to do this.

As the saying goes, it takes a village to raise a child.”

(850) 837-3662

DestinLaw.com

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Regina K. Jaquess, Pharm.D.

W

Emerald Coast Compounding Pharmacy

hat do pharmacy and water skiing have in common? Regina Jaquess has a passion for both.

While the commonalities might stop there, these are two halves of Jacquess’ life that make her whole.

She has long called Santa Rosa Beach home after growing up in and on the water. The first time she put on skis was at the age of 2. Her parents competed nationally, and Regina and her sister Renee would follow in their parent’s footsteps and exceed them, competing internationally.

For undergraduate and pharmacy school, she attended the University of Louisiana–Monroe. There were three reasons for attending: Her sister was already at school there, the pharmacy program was prestigious and the campus had a water ski team dynasty. The sisters won six college nationals together.

Neither were simply college pastimes as she has made rewarding careers of both. Upon graduation, Jaquess opened her own pharmacy — Emerald Coast Compounding Pharmacy.

“One of the things I’m proudest of and thankful for is coming home to Santa Rosa Beach and being able to open my own pharmacy here where I can personally interact with all of the customers and the doctors,” said Jaquess. “Because my pharmacy

1719 S. Co. Hwy. 393

Santa Rosa Beach

is so personal and community-centric, I really get to know what works best for each patient and work with them to achieve their prime health.”

Jaquess caters to a triage relationship, in which the patient, doctor and pharmacist all communicate in order to fulfill the patients health needs with the fewest side effects and the most benefits.

Where her pharmacy is thriving, Jaquess is also making major waves in the world of competitive water skiing. She holds 12 world records, 10 world titles and countless international and professional wins.

She has held the World Slalom Record since 2009, bettering that record eight times over the past 10 years — the most recent being in July of 2019, when she again eclipsed her previous record. Regina continues to be the most dominant slalom skier in the world.

“These two parts of my life are totally separate but entwined because of my incredible support system,” said Jaquess. “My family, my friends, my pharmacy team and my ski sponsors are so supportive of both roles. I am grateful to those that got me to this level, because I wouldn’t be where I am without them.”

(850) 622-5800

ECCPharmacy.com

EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

February–March 2020

85

12 SEASONS OF FIRE Now is the season for romance, so treat your sweetheart to dinner at FIRE Steakhouse and enjoy one of the Chef’s NEW monthly specials for February!

HEIGHTEN YOUR MEAL Redeem this coupon at PLAYER SERVICES and receive a

FREE DESSERT with a dinner purchase of $60 or more*

MENTION CODE: ECMAGFCESS | EXPIRES: 3/31/2020 *Limit one per table. Tax and gratuity are not included. Closed Sunday and Monday. Excludes Bananas Foster.

Not valid with other discounts/promotions. Limit one redemption per Rewards account. Coupon value up to $12.

FINISH THE NIGHT LUCKY

UP THE STEAKS

Redeem this coupon at PLAYER SERVICES and receive

Join Wind Creek Rewards and we’ll give you an additional

MENTION CODE: ECMAG$10FP | EXPIRES: 3/31/2020

MENTION CODE: ECMAG$15FP | EXPIRES: 3/31/2020

Offer valid for new and existing Rewards Members.

Limit one redemption per account.

Offer valid for new Rewards Members only. Redeem at PLAYERS SERVICES. Limit one redemption per new account.

$10 FREE PLAY

$15 FREE PLAY

WindCreekAtmore.com • 303 Poarch Rd., Atmore, AL 36502 ©2020 Wind Creek Hospitality. Must be an existing Rewards Member or agree to sign up for an account upon redemption. Rewards Membership is FREE. Must be 21 years of age or older to redeem February–March 2020 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM offers. Offers are not valid to be combined or used in conjunction with any other offers or discounts. Wind Creek Hospitality management reserves all rights. See PLAYER SERVICES for details.

86

Shopping Spring into

Located in the Village of Baytowne Wharf • 850.351.1800 • #SANDESTINSTYLE

Make This Your Permanent Vacation Home

The Tradition Continues Let’s talk about how a vacation home could be within your reach!

Balenda Hetzel NMLS #430532

Regional Production Manager 225 Main Street, Suite 14 Destin, FL 32541

850.499.4759

balendahetzel@inlanta.com

emeraldcoastlender.com

Inlanta Mortgage, Inc. NMLS #1016. Florida License #MLD55.

Best Italian 2013, 2014, 2015, 2018 Best Restaurant Okaloosa County 2013, 2014, 2016, 2017, 2018 Best Service, Food & Beverage 2015 Best Locally Owned Restaurant 2017

Best Brunch 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2017, 2018. 2019 Best Restaurant in Walton County 2017 Best Breakfast 2018

Mama Clemenza’s | 12273 Emerald Coast Pkwy, Miramar Beach 850.424.3157 | mamaclemenzas.com Clemenza’s At Uptown Station | 75 Eglin Pkwy, Fort Walton Beach 850.243.0707 | clemenzasatuptown.com

EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

February-March 2020

87

S

EMER AL

D AST

Special Edition

CO

20 YE AR

OF

2000–20

MA

GAZIN

E

MAGICAL MOMENTS

“There is one thing the photograph must contain, the humanity of the moment.” — ROBERT FRANK

by ZANDRA WOLFGRAM photography compiled by JENNIFER EKRUT

T

MARI DARR~WELCH / AUG–SEPT 2012

he 17th century English clergyman Thomas Fuller said, “Seeing is believing, but feeling is the truth.” We couldn’t agree more. For two decades, the creative eye of both staff and freelance photographers have captured our imaginations (and hearts) by giving life to every single Emerald Coast Magazine story through illuminating images.

88

February-March 2020 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

HBB PHOTOGRAPHY/ FEB–MAR 2012 MICHAEL BOOINI / APR–MAY 2019 JEFF WALDORFF / JUN–JUL 2018

They put the truth in clear focus.

Sometimes during a carefully crafted photo shoot, other times by snapping a candid magical moment, but the stable of Emerald Coast Magazine photographers have always humanized the stories about the people, places and things we care most about.

Do you hear the beat of the music? Feel the warmth of the setting sun? Taste the briny spray of the Gulf? Do you see the Emerald Coast with a new perspective?

We hope so.

To all the amazing photographers who have lent their time and talents to transform fleeting moments into visceral visual time chambers on our pages, we humbly thank you.

EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

February-March 2020

89

90

February-March 2020 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

BRANDAN BABINEAUX / AUG–SEPT 2012

HBB PHOTOGRAPHY / AUG–SEPT 2012 SCOTT HOLSTEIN / AUG–SEPT 2011

EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

February-March 2020

91

SCOTT HOLSTEIN / APR–MAY 2012 SCOTT HOLSTEIN / AUG–SEPT 2013

KANSAS PITTS / OCT–NOV 2013

92

February-March 2020 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

SCOTT HOLSTEIN / JUN–JULY 2011 KANSAS PITTS / DEC 2014–JAN 2015

SHELLY SWANGER / AUG–SEPT 2011

EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

February-March 2020

93

AUSTIN POWELL / APR–MAY 2005 ALISSA ARYN / JUN–JUL 2018

94

February-March 2020 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

JEFF WALDORFF / JUN–JUL 2018

SCOTT HOLSTEIN / APR–MAY 2011

EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

February-March 2020

95

PURE 7 STUDIOS / JUN–JUL 2015 AUSTIN POWELL / APR–MAY 2005

HBB PHOTOGRAPHY/ AUG–SEPT 2011

D AST

Special Edition 2000–20

MA

GAZIN

E

➺ McGuire’s Hams

Up Best Burgers 2006-2019

Since 2006, the Emerald Coast flipped over one burger joint compared to the rest. McGuire’s Irish Pub in Pensacola and Destin offers 28 Angus steak burgers on their dinner menu. Here, everyone can find their flavor. McGuire’s promises a night of “Feasting, Imbibery and Debauchery,” so pair one of their decadent burgers with a cocktail and enjoy the night with the gusto of an Irishman.

BEST OF THE BEST Six Winning Emerald Coast All-Stars

by DANIELLE J. BROWN

Emerald Coast Magazine’s annual Best of the Emerald Coast awards give our readers an opportunity to celebrate the gems in our local communities. As part of our 20th anniversary celebration, we would like to re-recognize some of the winners who have particularly shined with our loyal readers over the past two decades. Here are six special Best of winners from years past. ➺ Woofy Ramone

Rocks the Airwaves for Eight Years

From 2009–13, then again from 2015–18, Woofy Ramone of 99Rock won Best Radio Personality for radio listeners on the Emerald Coast. Ramone currently serves as the station’s DJ on weekdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and plays an assortment of rock music for the Fort Walton Beach area.

96

February-March 2020 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

➺ Bonefish Grill Stays

Appetizing from 2004–18

For 11 years, Bonefish Grill in Destin kicked off the Best Food and Beverage category as the restaurant with the Best Appetizer from 2005 to 2018. Bonefish offers a variety of seafood-based starters, from Ahi Tuna Shashimi, Maryland-Style Crab Cakes and their Bang Bang Shrimp.

➺ Osaka and Thai Delights

Battle for Best Asian

Emerald Coast Magazine included Best Asian food to the lineup in 2003. At the start of the category, two restaurants battled for the top spot: Thai Delights and Osaka Japanese Hibachi Steak House, both located in Destin. Thai Delights first won in 2003, then again in 2005. Osaka took the lead in 2004, 2006 and again in 2007. The hibachi restaurant won periodically throughout the years and has once again earned Best Asian in 2019.

➺ Smith’s Antiques Mall

is a Treasure

Smith’s Antiques Mall in Miramar Beach is clearly a place Emerald Coast readers treasure. For 20 consecutive years, the 25,000-square-foot mall in Miramar

Beach has proven to be the shop to browse keepsake knick-knacks, collectibles and snag one-of-a-kind antiques. Smith’s Antiques Mall is the only Best of participant to win every year since Emerald Coast Magazine’s first run in 2000. Clearly it is the best of the Best.

➺ Seagar’s Prime

Steak & Seafood Serves Up an Elegant Evening

While the name of the category has changed over the years, Emerald Coast readers rave for Seagar’s Prime Steak & Seafood. Since 2001, readers awarded Seagar’s with various Best titles, including Special Occasion Restaurant, Best Wine List, Best Service, Best Restaurant in Walton County and winning this year in Fine Dining. Seagar’s delivers deliciously when it comes to serving up a memorable dining experience.

PHOTOS BY MATT BURKE AND COURTESY OF WOODY RAMONE AND HILTON SANDESTIN BEACH GOLF RESORT & SPA

S

EMER AL

CO

20 YE AR

OF

The Emerald Coast’s Premier Special Events Band Playing your favorite hits from the 60’s, 70’s & 80’s

Featuring Founding Member

Edwin Watts

Playing for all types of events including private parties, fundraisers, sold out concerts and more!

To book the Mulligans call 850-585-4988 or email lmcox1@rocketmail.com

See us performing at www.MulligansBand.net EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

February-March 2020

97

S

EMER AL

D AST

Special Edition

CO

20 YE AR

OF

2000–20

MA

GAZIN

E

20 YEARS IN THE MAKING

by DANIELLE J. BROWN

Developments and cultural events over 20 years shape the identity of an area.

What are now community staples once were glimmers of new developments.

Moments in our collective memories are often the glue that galvanize communities together. Here’s a collection of milestones throughout the past 20 years that played a part in transforming the Emerald Coast into the quality place where we love to live, work and play today.

2000 ↑ Raven Golf Club Opens

Named “Best New Course in Florida” by Florida Golf News in 2000, Raven Golf Club in Sandestin maintained its reputation throughout the years with accolades from various golf magazines. The Raven is located on the Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort property.

Established in 2005 Destin Charity Wine Auction Foundation Forms

Few events in the Emerald Coast allow its guests to enjoy a lavish night of dinner and wine tasting while serving as a fundraiser for childrenfocused charities. The Destin Charity Wine Auction Foundation is an annual spring event held in concert with the South Walton Beaches Wine & Food Festival at Grand Boulevard. To date, it has raised more than $22 million for 16 local children’s charities.

2008 Pier Park Opens

Following Jeb Bush’s final term as Florida governor, former Florida Attorney General and Republican nominee Charlie Crist won against Jim Davis, the democratic nominee.

SCOTT HOLSTEIN

November 7, 2006 → Charlie Crist Wins Gubernatorial Election

Pier Park opened in 2008 and now features more than 120 stores as well as dining and entertainment options. It also boasts the 1,500-foot Russell-Fields City Pier, one of the area’s most popular tourist attractions fantastic for reeling in fish and breathtaking sunrise and sunset views.

Throughout 2013 → Viva Florida 500

98

February-March 2020 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

Cultural Arts Alliance put on the first annual 30A Songwriter Festival, which featured local musical artists from around the Walton County area and the lyrical brains behind country and pop’s top hits. The festival continues to showcase and celebrate the music along 30A and is a great source of tourism for the area.

September 20, 2014 → Centennial Celebration of Naval Air Station Pensacola is home to the U.S. Navy’s first and

oldest naval air station. In 1913, the United States Navy commissioned the first Naval Air Station and began operation in 1914, which would come to host the renowned Blue Angels flight demonstrations. On September 20, 2014, the city celebrated the Naval Air Station’s 100 years of operation with a gala.

COURTESY OF GLENN HASTINGS

In 2013, the state of Florida celebrated the 500th anniversary of the day Ponce de Leon landed on the soils of “la Florida” and claimed it for Spain.

The state ran a yearlong campaign called “Viva Florida 500” where cities and communities across the state organized events to celebrate and remember Florida’s historical influence on the creation of the United States.

January 15-17, 2010 30A Songwriter Festival Debuts The

June 15, 2015 Jeb for President Former Florida Governor Jeb Bush

announces his candidacy for the Republican nominee for U.S. president. His campaign fizzled out fairly quickly, and he officially suspended his candidacy in February the following year.

2001 Emerald Coast Citizens Fundraise for 9/11 Victims Various fundraising events across the

PHOTOS BY SCOTT HOLSTEIN (2002) AND COURTESY OF SANDESTIN GOLF AND BEACH RESORT (2000) ROWLAND PUBLISHING FILE PHOTOS (2003 AND 2010)

Emerald Coast hoped to mend the heart of America after the attacks on the World Trade Center. Children running Kool-Aid stands, grand benefit dinners hosted by Emerald Coast chefs, local firefighters taking to the streets with donation buckets and other community efforts raised money during a time of national heartbreak.

August 2002 ← The Village of Baytowne Wharf Opens Dubbed the “most

active time in the resort’s history,” Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort launched the first installment of several phases of The Village of Baytowne Wharf. Eventually, the highly anticipated development filled 28 acres of bayside property with “quaint shops, charming eateries and lively entertainment” to become the first “mixed use lifestyle center” in the area.

January 27, 2003 Sacred Heart Hospital on the Emerald Coast

President Roger Hall carried in the first patient, 6-year-old Savanna Hall, who arrived at the emergency room just as the dedication ceremony was coming to a close. The then 50-bed hospital started with 175 associates and 60 medical staff physicians. Today Sacred Heart employs 626 associates, more than 88 physicians and an additional 265 medical staff physicians and has grown to a 76-bed community hospital.

April 20, 2010 Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill Gunks Up Tourism An explosion from a BP oil rig about

41 miles off the Alabama coast sends roughly 200 million gallons to circulate in the Gulf of Mexico for over four months. The Emerald Coast faced immediate environmental and economic impact from this catastrophe. Much of the area has recovered, but researchers are concerned remnants of oil in underwater sediments may have larger environmental consequences in the future. Triumph Gulf Coast will oversee BP’s estimated $2 billion payment to the state over the next several years.

April 2010 ← Hands Across the Sand Forms Founded by Seaside restauranteur Dave Rauschkolb,

PHOTOS BY MASS COMMUNICATION SPECIALIST 2ND CLASS TIMOTHY SCHUMAKER/ RELEASED (2014) AND COURTESY OF SEASIDE, FL AND PARAMOUNT PICTURES

Hands Across the Sand grew from a one-day peaceful protest into an international movement. People came together to join hands, forming symbolic barriers against spilled oil and to stand against the impacts of other forms of extreme energy. Many years later, it has grown into a coalition of organizations, activists and citizens around the world to bring the message of clean energy to local and world leaders.

play and stay town center located on Northwest Florida’s beaches opened in phases beginning in 2003 anchored by Publix. In 2006, the Courtyard

by Marriott and Residence Inn opened followed by the Town Center in 2007. The Boulevard 10 Cinema opened in 2013 as Walton County’s only movie theater. Coastal Culture launched in 2014 making the mixed use center a popular annual event venue.

Throughout 2004 The Year of Hurricanes

Florida endured stormy weather in 2004 to say the least. Hurricane Charley (Cat. 4), Frances (Cat. 4), Ivan (Cat. 3) and Jeanne (Cat 3) bombarded the coasts of Florida, with Hurricanes Ivan and Frances hitting the Emerald Coast most directly. Together, these hurricanes caused over $40 billion in damage.

June 2011 Artist Shantell Martin Returns to 5th Annual DG Festival in Alys Beach UK-

born and NYC-based visual artist headlines the 5th annual Digital Graffiti Festival.

Known as the event where “art, music and architecture intersect,” Digital Graffiti launched in Alys Beach as the world’s first art projection festival.

October 10, 2018 Hurricane Michael Makes Historic Landfall on Panhandle Homes and structures all across the

August 2017 Salute to Rosie O’Grady’s

Generations of people who had worked as members of the saloon’s “The Good Times Gang” turned out to celebrate 50 years of Rosie O’Grady’s. The saloon remains an anchor of Pensacola’s Seville Quarter entertainment complex, and it continues to rock with its Dueling Piano Show.

2003 → Howard Group Opens Grand Boulevard at Sandestin This shop, dine,

Emerald Coast took a beating from category 5 Hurricane Michael. While many areas suffered from devastating property loss, iconic Florida cities became unrecognizable through this storm.

June 5, 2018 ↑ ‘The Truman Show’ 20th Anniversary Seaside, Florida,

celebrated the 20th anniversary of “The Truman Show” with news segments featuring the Seaside residents recalling the fun chaos filming brought the town.

May 4, 2019 Studer Family Children’s Hospital Sees its First Patients Former CEO of Sacred Heart Hospital

Susan Davis developed Pensacola’s newest medical endeavor to ensure better care for children in the area. With state-ofthe-art technology and a focus on providing care for children and their families, Studer Family Children’s Hospital is designed to bring comfort to Pensacola’s smallest patients.

2012 Harley Davidson Dealership Opens After seven

years of planning, the official groundbreaking ceremony took place for a Harley Davidson dealership in Panama City Beach. The dealership expected to be open in time for the 2013 spring Thunder Beach Motorcycle Rally. Today, Thunder Beach Rally recently marked its 20-year anniversary.

Spring 2020 Emerald Coast Magazine Marks 20 Years Emerald Coast Magazine was the first professionally produced consumer lifestyle magazine in the area. It also was the first publication in the market to launch a reader poll award program.

Best of the Emerald Coast marked its 20th anniversary in November and has become a major annual fundraiser for the Emerald Coast Junior League. What hasn’t changed over the years is the magazine’s mission: to strive to capture the essence of the Emerald Coast one compelling story at a time.

EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

February-March 2020

99

SPONSORED SPONSOREDREPORT REPORT

Finding Finding the the Right Right Mortgage Mortgage Lender Lender Whether Whetheryou’re you’regoing goingthrough throughthe thehome homebuying buyingprocess processfor forthe the very veryfirst firsttime timeororrefinancing refinancingagain, again,it’s it’simportant importanttotopartner partnerwith withthe the right rightlender lendertotobebesure sureyou youlearn learnallallofofyour yourmortgage mortgageoptions, options,and and get getthe theright rightmortgage mortgageproduct productfor foryou youand andyour yourfinancial financialgoals. goals.

With WithBalenda BalendaHetzel Hetzeland andher herteam teamofofprofessionals professionalsatatInlanta Inlanta Mortgage, Mortgage,you’ll you’lldodojust justthat. that.

“When “Whenyou youwork workwith withour ourteam, team,you youbecome becomefamily familyand andwe wetreat treat you youthat thatway,” way,”said saidBalenda.

Balenda.“We “Wetake takethe thetime timetotounderstand understandyour your own ownunique uniquefinancial financialsituation, situation,and andthen thenwe wetake takecare careofofyou youand and your yourloan, loan,personally, personally,from fromstart starttotofinish.” finish.”

With Witha awide widerange rangeofofmortgage mortgageproducts productsand anda apersonalized personalized approach approachtotobusiness, business,Balenda’s Balenda’steam teamprovides providesitsitsclients clientsa alevel level ofofservice serviceunmatched unmatchedbybystandard standardbanks banksand andlarger largerlenders. lenders.Inlanta Inlanta Mortgage, Mortgage,a atop topindependent independentlender, lender,isiscommitted committedtotodelivering deliveringanan exceptional exceptionalcustomer customerexperience, experience,with withananunwavering unwaveringdedication dedication totointegrity, integrity,honesty honestyand andethics. ethics.

“We “Wetruly trulyput putour ourclients clientsfirst firstand andfocus focusonongetting gettingtheir theirloans loansclosed closed quickly quicklyand andeasily,” easily,”emphasized emphasizedBalenda.

Balenda.“Because “Becausewe weoriginate, originate, process, process,underwrite underwriteand andclose closeour ourloans loansin-house, in-house,we wecan canprovide provide more moreoptions optionsononrates ratesand andproducts, products,which whichmeans meansour ourclients clientsget get the thebest bestrate rateand andbest bestproduct producttotomeet meettheir theirneeds.” needs.”

Inlanta Inlantaalso alsoboasts boastssome someofofthe theindustry’s industry’smost mostadvanced advancedcomputer computer and andmobile mobiletechnology, technology,allowing allowinghomebuyers homebuyerstotostreamline streamlinethe the mortgage mortgageprocess processand andcommunicate communicatemore moreeasily easilywith withboth boththeir their lenders lendersand andreal realestate estateagents. agents.InInaddition, addition,it itoffers offersa awide widerange rangeofof mortgage mortgageproducts, products,including includingConventional, Conventional,FHA, FHA,VA, VA,USDA, USDA,Jumbo Jumbo mortgage mortgageloans loansand andmore. more.Learn Learnmore moreabout aboutInlanta InlantaMortgage Mortgageatat www.Inlanta.com, www.Inlanta.com,and andcontact contactBalenda Balendaand andher herteam teamofofmortgage mortgage experts expertsatat850.499.4759 850.499.4759ororemail emailbalendahetzel@inlanta.com. balendahetzel@inlanta.com.

Voted VotedBest BestMortgage MortgageLender Lender Inlanta InlantaMortgage Mortgage 225 225Main MainSt,St,Suite Suite1414 Destin, Destin,FLFL32541 32541 Inlanta InlantaMortgage, Mortgage,Inc. Inc.NMLS NMLS#1016 #1016

100

February-March 2020 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

Good Food. Good People. Good Times.

Best Rooftop Bar Coastal Living Magazine

Magnolia Grill

157 Brooks Street SE (850) 302-0266

fort walton beach

tom & peggy rice, proprietors

www.magnoliagrillfwb.com

steaks • seafood • italian BudandAlleys.com

850.231.5900

bridal luncheons

lunch

• dinner

• wedding rehearsals • unique receptions

pasajack.com

EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

February-March 2020

101

S

EMER AL

D AST

Special Edition

CO

20 YE AR

OF

2000–20

MA

GAZIN

E

SOCIAL STUDIES

20 Years of Capturing Special Moments on the Emerald Coast

by JAVIS OGDEN

ROWLAND PUBLISHING FILE PHOTOS

The Emerald Coast represents a unique diaspora of regional, national and international influences found in few other places. It therefore comes as no surprise that the businesses of the Emerald Coast serve their communities with an effectiveness and versatility that makes its allure a no-brainer for both residents and visitors far and wide. For 20 years, our annual showcase of homegrown businesses on the Emerald Coast, Best of EC, has placed a worthy spotlight on the waves that our beloved movers and shakers have made — and continue to make — when it comes to advancing the reach and notoriety of the coastal retreat that we call home.

Join us in looking back at 20 wonderful years of the Best of the Emerald Coast, and cheers to many more.

102

February-March 2020 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

February-March 2020

103

PROMOTION

DEAL ESTATE

JUST LISTED

Embrace the Resort Life in Wild Heron Wild Heron is a gated community east of famed Highway 30A in Panama City Beach. Surrounded by the world-renowned Shark’s Tooth Golf Course and Lake Powell, the community is resort living defined — without the hustle and bustle created by short-term rentals. This home was built by one of the most highly regarded builders in Northwest Florida, who delivered only the best finishes, such as a window and door package from E.F. San Juan. This bungalow home is a flip-flop walk to such amenities as a boathouse to store your water vessels, a state-of-the-art fitness center, a spacious pool and the largest coastal dune lake in Northwest Florida. You can paddle to the Gulf of Mexico, join the private golf club or simply enjoy the lush landscape of Wild Heron. While you can easily achieve a quiet resort lifestyle in Wild Heron, you are a quick trip from restaurants, shopping and all the buzz of 30A and Panama City Beach.

LIST PRICE: $489,000 ADDRESS: 1214 W. Lakewalk Circle SQUARE FOOTAGE: 2,618 BEDROOMS: 3 BATHROOMS: 3 YEAR BUILT: 2005

APPEAL: The home is in excellent condition. The owners have maintained the house with tedious care. Exterior painted in August of 2019.

CONTACT INFORMATION: Kerri Parker, Realtor (850) 543-8690 Counts Real Estate Group, Inc.

104

February-March 2020 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

PHOTOS BY MOON CREEK STUDIOS

FEATURES: Craftsman home with upgraded built-in features, including accents created from a 300-year-old red cedar tree. Extraordinary windows and doors throughout the home.

Small town company, Big business services.

2019 Projection $100 Million Four Locations:

• Fort Walton Beach • Buckhead, Atlanta GA • Madison, AL • San Antonio, TX

Loan Officers: 23 Loan Processors: 5 Loan Officer Assistants: 5 In-House Underwriter: 1 Closer: 1 Management Team: 4

www.BOEFWB.com | 850-362-6488

348 Miracle Strip Pkwy SW, Ste #39, Fort Walton Beach Michael Castleberry is not a loan originator. Bank of England Mortgage is a division of Bank of England. NMLS 418481. Member FDIC.

EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

February-March 2020

105

Know someone recently engaged or in the process of planning a wedding?

Photo by DesirÉe Gardner Photography

Visit NorthwestFloridaWeddings.net to submit their information so we can send them a congratulations package, including the Northwest Florida Weddings Magazine! They will also be submitted for a chance to be covered in the magazine after their wedding!

NorthwestFloridaWeddings.net

106

February-March 2020 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

SP O NSO R E D R E P O RT

S T O R I E S from the

HEART

INSPIRING STORIES OF PEOPLE HELPING PEOPLE The life-changing care Sacred Heart Health System provides has touched the hearts of many who strive to ensure that this incredible mission of care continues for future generations. Sacred Heart Foundation is proud to be a partner in this endeavor. Please enjoy these “Stories from the Heart.”

PR E SENTE D BY

FEBRUA RY/ M A RCH 2 02 0

1071

EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM GIVESACREDHEART.ORG | S ACREFebruary-March D HE A RT FO UN2020 DAT IO N

SPONSORED REPORT

STORIES from the

HEART

Miles Wright (left) with the California professional paintball team

MILES WRIGHT

“My cancer helped me appreciate the small things.”

108 2020 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM 2 S ACRFebruary-March E D H E A R T F O U N DATI ON | GIVESACREDHEART.ORG

SPONSORED REPORT

M

Miles Wright was 15 years old when he started to feel a little off. After headaches and nosebleeds turned into a 20-pound weight loss over two weeks, Miles went to see his doctor.

The high school freshman was told it was just “growing pains.” Unconvinced, Miles finally had a blood test. In the summer of 2012, he was diagnosed with leukemia.

Born and raised in Pensacola, Miles received treatments from the Studer Family Children’s Hospital at Ascension Sacred Heart — a blessing to his tight-knit family, who took turns staying by his side as he navigated those difficult days.

His story inspired a “Be the Match” campaign that brought thousands of people out to check their donor status. But Miles ultimately received his cord blood transplant from a match in Australia. (For laughs, he says he worked on his accent for a while.)

“I try to be as laid back as possible because of my experiences with leukemia,” he said. “It is definitely a good thing to enjoy the smaller things and not take those things for granted because you never know when you won’t have them.”

Being close to home meant Miles’ friends and classmates could visit him after school. In fact, many would walk from nearby Booker T. Washington High School to spend time playing video games, like nothing had changed.

“It’s one thing when people say they’re going to come and see you, but when they actually come and spend the better part of their day with you, that speaks volumes,” he says. “Some of them would skip their track meets just to come hang out with me on weekends. That meant the world to me.”

While in the hospital for up to a month at a time, Miles also made friends on the floor. His doctors and nurses checked up on him regularly while giving him space to be a normal kid.

Miles says it was incredible to have the hospital in his hometown because his family could be right there with him.

“My mom stayed there every night.

I would wake up and my grandparents would be there before she even left. My

aunt and uncle came on the weekends to give my mom some reprieve,” he explains. “It felt like nothing changed.

Nothing felt new or out of place because we are all so close.”

The Children’s Hospital is in the process of building a new Oncology Center for Hope, where 50 percent of the space will be dedicated to patient families, with a gym and laundry facilities planned. Miles says the extra amenities will certainly be beneficial to families who want to be there while their kids get well.

“It’s going to seem really scary,” he says. “But I also have that mentality that if it’s something I’ve got to get through, let’s just get through it as best as we possibly can.”

Miles got through not one, but two bouts with cancer, and today he is five years out from his initial diagnosis. He graduated on time from high school, then took his best friend on a trip of lifetime when the Make a Wish Foundation granted Miles’ wish to play paintball with a pro team in California. He is currently in the process of earning a degree in graphic design from Pensacola State College.

More than 12,000 people have contributed to the new Children’s Hospital.

To that, Miles says: “Thank you. People feel like their pennies don’t go a long way, but as you can see, when you get enough people together, then pennies go a very, very long way. This isn’t only going to help the children take their minds off of things and play games, this is also going to go toward research and new technologies, so the doctors can get their jobs done quicker and maybe even curtail the side effects of chemo treatment.”

Now 22 years old and no stranger to adversity, this young man has a beautiful outlook on his future.

“Anything can happen in life, you just try to make the best of it however you can,” he says. “When I got out of the hospital for the first time, I really noticed all the small things. Life moves very, very fast. Just enjoy it.”

A MESSAGE FROM CAROL CARLAN Sacred Heart Foundation is a reflection of the community it serves. Our community on the Gulf Coast is not only known for its beautiful beaches and emerald waters but also for the beauty in the hearts of those who care deeply and give so generously to ensure that we all have access to the highest level of healthcare available.

One of those beautiful, caring hearts belongs to 17-year-old Kendall Frazee, who is leading a fundraiser, Hello Before Goodbye, to provide bereavement boxes for a year to the Ascension Sacred Heart Women’s and Maternity Center in Pensacola. These boxes contain memories and mementos providing peace and comfort to families during their time of greatest need.

You will also read about donor and board members Stephen T. Holman and Justin T. Holman, who are grateful for the “incredible opportunity to give back to the community” by supporting the Studer Family Children’s Hospital.

And then there are our former patients like Miles Wright, who bravely fought two bouts with cancer. Now five years out from his initial diagnosis, he teaches others to “really notice all the small things. Life moves very, very fast. Just enjoy it!”

These are just a few of the individuals who care deeply and give generously to the patients, families and communities we serve. Thank you for bestowing your treasures of time and resources upon us to help make a difference in the lives of our patients. We are grateful and thankful for your generosity and devotion.

With a grateful heart, Carol Carlan

Carol Carlan President, Sacred Heart Foundation

EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

February-March 2020

109 3

GIVESACREDHEART.ORG | S ACRE D HE A RT FO UN DAT IO N

SPONSORED REPORT

STORIES from the

HEART

Stephen and Justin Holman

T

THE HOLMAN LAW FIRM

The Holman Law Firm, which is the father and son team of Stephen T. and Justin T. Holman, is dedicated to the principle that “The BEST parent is BOTH parents.”

As experienced litigators who choose to be primarily involved in family law cases, their firm concentrates on outcomes that ensure children are able to interact with both mother and father. At one time, it was customary that the mother was automatically granted custody, but this is no longer the norm.

Stephen, an attorney for 32 years, says people tend to think that The Holman Law Firm mainly represents fathers, “but that is generally because when I first started doing this, fathers didn’t think they had a voice.

However, after years of fighting for equality, it’s pretty common that fathers have equal rights except in extenuating circumstances.

Children deserve and should have access to both parents, whether or not they are married.”

Advocates for the children Justin’s commitment to the legal profession got its start with his experiences as a youngster. He was often present in a corner of the courtroom watching his dad when he was so small that his feet barely touched the floor. Witnessing the gratitude expressed by a parent when a case was settled equitably was a compelling influence on him.

So it is understandable that today, like his father, Justin is committed to “helping parents.” He explains, “When there’s children involved, no monetary verdict you can get for a parent compares to knowing their children will be forever involved in their life. That type of reward and seeing that in a parent’s eyes … that’s what I have a passion for.”

Stephen adds, “Winning a case where someone is trying to keep a child out of someone’s life and you prevent that and keep both parents in the picture … it’s the equivalent of hitting a game-winning grand slam.”

110 February-March 2020 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM 4 S ACR E D H E A R T F O U N DATI ON | GIVESACREDHEART.ORG

Both father and son are strong supporters of the Studer Family Children’s Hospital at Ascension Sacred Heart and its far-reaching impact on the community. Stephen points out that when families consider moving to Pensacola, one of the first things they inquire about is healthcare for their children. The Children’s Hospital is a strong endorsement for families moving to the Pensacola area, thus contributing to the economic growth of the area.

Justin, who serves on the Sacred Heart Foundation board, views his participation as an “incredible opportunity to give back to the community.” He is keenly aware that parents are grateful for the peace of mind the new Children’s Hospital gives. When their child needs the very best healthcare, they know that world-class doctors are available in their very own backyard, thus eliminating the burden of traveling outside the area.

SPON SORED REPORT

The Frazee family

B

KENDALL FRAZEE

Helping families heal after pregnancy and infant loss

Kendall Frazee was only 3 years old when her mother suffered a miscarriage. She lost a brother she would never meet, but Jackson lives on through his sister’s good work.

A junior in Pensacola High School’s International Baccalaureate program, Kendall is making her mark at age 17. In addition to her intense academic studies, membership in NHS, SNHS, Math Club, Key Club and youth group (to name a few) — while casually learning “Canon in D” on her acoustic guitar — she founded “Goodbye Before Hello,” a service project for pregnancy and infant loss awareness.

“I had to complete an extended service project that would in some way contribute to my community, as part of how we’re taught to see the world,” Kendall says. “We can make an impact.”

And she has. After going through miscarriage as a sibling, Kendall wanted to bring light to a topic many people avoid talking about as a way to support her community.

Going beyond what was required for her

school project, her goal is to raise $12,000 to cover the cost of one year of bereavement boxes for Ascension Sacred Heart. The boxes are filled with hand and foot molds and stamps, photographs, baby blankets or clothes — to be opened in a family’s own time as part of the grieving process.

Kendall raised much of the money through traditional fundraisers before finding a partner in a local cross maker, who felt called to auction three of their handcrafted crosses in support of this special cause. Two of the buyers had suffered their own losses and considered their contributions healing.

“We don’t have anything except one clear ultrasound picture,” Kendall says. “When my mom lost the baby at almost 17 weeks, we didn’t go home with anything.”

The Frazees planted a tree in their backyard, along with an angel statue and a plaque. In all of her preschool paintings, Kendall’s mom says she always showed Jackson as an angel, out of line with the rest of the family, but with them from above.

One in four women have suffered a pregnancy or infant loss.

“I want people to see that it’s not something we can avoid. It’s going to happen because God has a plan, and these things are not avoidable,” Kendall says. “Keeping quiet about it doesn’t help.

The best way to heal and to grieve as a community is to talk about it.”

The family has since welcomed a son, Carter. If Kendall was the sunshine baby and Jackson a teardrop, Carter is their rainbow.

Accompanying Carter to an OT appointment for a condition that affects his eyesight, Kendall was fascinated by the human eye. She hopes to go into biomedical engineering, specializing in craniofacial prosthesis with an emphasis on eyes.

But as this bright young woman has taught us all, it is with the heart we see most clearly.

To learn more about Kendall’s project and how you can help, please visit Facebook.com/GoodbyeBeforeHello.

EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

February-March 2020

111 5

GIVESACREDHEART.ORG | S ACRE D HE A RT FO UN DAT IO N

SPONSORED REPORT

STORIES from the

HEART

LOGAN ALLEN

A

Our smallest miracle

At six months pregnant, Talisa Jackson was faced with every expectant mother’s worst nightmare.

Following an excruciating night of pain and spotting, Jackson, who lives in Century, Florida, was informed that she was miscarrying her baby girl, and there was nothing her doctors could do for her.

Jackson was rushed to Ascension Sacred Heart Pensacola, where she underwent an emergency cesarean section.

Upon waking, Jackson was in for two surprises. Though premature, her baby was very much alive. And she had a boy.

On Jan. 26, 2019, at just 24 weeks, Omaurian “Logan” Allen was born at 12 ounces and 10 inches long.

He is likely the smallest surviving baby in Sacred Heart’s 104-year history.

“When I woke up three days later and got to see him for the f irst time, I cried,” said Jackson. “He was so little and surrounded by all these tubes. I remember thinking, ‘Why me?’ ” Doctors prepared Jackson for the worst, but she said, “Do everything you can for my baby, because I’m not giving up on him.” For the next five months, neither would the Studer Family Children’s Hospital at Ascension Sacred Heart. After being on and off ventilators and enduring countless surgeries and skin grafts, baby Logan was deemed healthy enough to go home in June.

“We had two episodes where Logan died on us and stopped breathing,” Jackson said. “For a while, I went into a depression.

I blamed myself because I had pre-eclampsia.”

But Children’s Hospital doctors helped her realize that preeclampsia, a type of pregnancy complication influenced by high-blood pressure, was common and beyond her control.

Jackson said she met some “amazing people” while bonding with other NICU mothers and nurses, forming a unique support system that helped her through the darkest days.

“I love my nurses,” she said. “If I was busy with my other two girls at home, they would reassure me that they had Logan, and he wasn’t going anywhere. If they ever thought something might be wrong when I came to see Logan, they would ask if I needed to talk. They became my family. They went through this with me, and I was never alone.”

When the new Children’s Hospital opened on May 4, Jackson and Logan were transferred from Sacred Heart’s old

112 February-March 2020 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM 6 S ACR E D H E A R T F O U N DATI ON | GIVESACREDHEART.ORG

Logan Allen and mom, Talisa

Neonatal Intensive Care Unit to the new Level III NICU, where each family receives their own private room. There, Jackson was able to enjoy more solitude and peace with her son and learn all about his “big” personality.

“You’ve got to be on time with that bottle, or he’s going to let you have it,” Jackson laughed. “He may be little, but he’s loud. He knows he has his nurses and mom wrapped around his f inger.”

But when he quiets down, gazes into his mother’s loving eyes, Jackson is steadfast with their mantra. “Every night, I tell him he’s my champion,” she said. “I tell him, ‘You are strong. You are smart. You’re a soldier, you’re victorious, you’re my miracle.’ ” Jackson promises Logan he will grow up to be successful, able to do anything and everything he could want.

“As soon as I start telling him, he looks up with a smile because he knows.”

SPON SORED REPORT

MaRCH 28, 2020

6:00 p.m.

Hilton sandestin

Dinner

Live Music

Dancing

Join us as we honor

Roger Hall, President

Ascension Sacred Heart Emerald Coast for his service and commitment to our community.

All proceeds benefit the expansion of the Cardiac and Spine Programs at Ascension Sacred Heart Emerald Coast For tickets and more information: www.sacredheartemeraldball.com

EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

February-March 2020

1137

GIVESACREDHEART.ORG | S ACRE D HE A RT FO UN DAT IO N

SPONSORED REPORT

STORIES from the

HEART

PREEMIE CUP

Twenty-one years ago, Preemie Cup started with a mom’s desire to give back to the NICU that saved her daughter’s life. Today, the event has grown to include a sailing regatta, stand-up paddleboard relay, fishing tournament and silent auction raising over $88,000. All proceeds benefit children in the care of the Level II and Level III Neonatal Intensive Care Units at the Studer Family Children’s Hospital at Ascension Sacred Heart.

CHARITY GOLF CLASSIC Thanks to the community’s generosity and love for the game of golf, 112 golfers teed up at Burnt Pine Golf Club during the 18th Annual Sacred Heart Charity Golf Classic.

Presented by Howard Group, Silver Sands Outlets, Grand Boulevard and St. Joe Community Foundation, the tournament successfully generated over $138,000 for Ascension Sacred Heart Emerald Coast.

DESTIN CHARITY WINE AUCTION FOUNDATION We thank the Destin Charity Wine Auction Foundation for their continued support of the new Level III Neonatal Intensive Care Unit at Ascension Sacred Heart Emerald Coast. Because of you and others in our community, our children have a top-ranked hospital in their time of need, and their families have the peace of mind knowing that their precious children or grandchildren are in the best hands.

ABOUT THE SACRED HEART FOUNDATION Since 1915, Sacred Heart Health System has been at the heart of healing for Northwest Florida and South Alabama. Like our founders, the Daughters of Charity, Sacred Heart is dedicated to providing quality, compassionate healthcare to the citizens of our regions, regardless of their ability to pay. This steadfast commitment to our community could not have been achieved without the support and generosity of the thousands of individuals, businesses and organizations that have donated to Sacred Heart Foundation. Through this charitable giving, Sacred Heart Foundation has been able to provide millions of dollars of free and low-cost healthcare to the poor, uninsured, under-insured and low-income families. With the help of generous donors, we are proud to partner in Sacred Heart’s mission of care along the Gulf Coast.

114 February-March 2020 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM 8 S ACR E D H E A R T F O U N DATI ON | GIVESACREDHEART.ORG

#PowerToCare

At Gulf Power we are working together with the communities we serve to make Northwest Florida an even better place to raise a family and do business.

EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

February-March 2020

115

PROMOTION

The scenic Carrabelle Riverfront is the site of the annual Carrabelle Riverfront Festival, April 25.

FLORIDA’S FORGOTTEN COAST Florida’s Forgotten Coast is home to year-round art exhibits, concerts, theater and festivals that highlight the natural resources, culture and history stretching from Alligator Point to Apalachicola.

During the late winter and early spring months, the coastal area events tend to focus on cultural, historic and natural resources.

The Dixie Theatre in Apalachicola will host several music performances during February and March, including a Willie Nelson Tribute concert by the Purvis Brothers and the Encore Band on Feb. 7–8 and the popular Currys band on Thursday, March 26. The Ilse Newell Concert Series (IN) will feature pianist Aleksandra “Sasha” Kasman performing the music of Franck/Medtner/Rachmaninoff at Apalachicola’s Trinity Episcopal Church on Sunday, Feb. 9. On Feb. 23, IN will present Mark Daniels and Rob Goodling performing an opera tenor arias, Italian street songs and Broadway show music. The Bay Area Choral Society will perform Songs of Spirit on March 29 and again on April 3.

Maritime and Boat Events Apalachicola hosts its annual Antique & Classic Boat & Car Show April 18 featuring antique

boats and cars displayed along the scenic waterfront. On Saturday, April 25, Carrabelle will host its annual Carrabelle Riverfront Festival featuring maritime exhibits, arts and crafts, seafood, live music and a classic car show.

Food Events

The Apalachicola Bay Chamber will host its annual Forgotten Coast Chef Sampler on Sunday, Feb. 9. On March 5–7, the St. George Island Regional Charity Chili Cook-off & Auction takes over St. George Island with the region’s largest chili cookoff. Later in the month, on Saturday, March 21, the Eastpoint Volunteer Fire Department will host its annual Rib Cookoff.

Cultural Events and Tours

The St. George Island Lighthouse Association will host the 7th annual St. George Island Tour of Homes on Saturday, Feb. 8. The event benefits

the maintenance and restoration of the historic St. George Island Lighthouse. Apalachicola’s annual African American History Festival Feb. 14–16 will feature blues and gospel music, food and vendors.

Art Events

From March 20–29, the area’s premier art event unfolds with the annual Forgotten Coast en Plein Air event. This 10-day event features nationally acclaimed artists and art enthusiasts from across the country who converge to set up their easels and pull out their brushes to document the landscape and culture of authentic “Old Florida” at venues stretching more than 100 miles along the coast. In April, Apalachicola hosts its annual Art & Wine Walk on Saturday, April 4 where local artists show, sell and demonstrate their talents and local businesses serve a variety of wines along a downtown trail of art and wine venues.

FOR A COMPLETE LIST OF ALL UPCOMING FORGOTTEN COAST EVENTS, V I S I T F L O R I D A S F O R G O T T E N C O A S T. C O M

116

February-March 2020 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

PHOTO COURTESY OF FOREST WESSON

Music Events

Apalachicola . Carrabelle . Eastpoint . St. George Island . Alligator Point

Unplug & Reconnect

along Florida’s Forgotten Coast

SPRING EVENTS FEBRUARY St. George Island Tour of Homes African American History Festival Mardi Gras Ball and Pet Parade MARCH St. George Island Charity Chili Cookoff Forgotten Coast en Plein Air Paintout Camp Gordon Johnston Days APRIL Apalachicola Artwalk Carrabelle Riverfront Festival St. George Island Brewfest Complete event list online at www.Floridasforgottencoast.com

Win a Forgotten Coast Getaway!

Visit FloridasForgottenCoast.com/ec EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

February-March 2020

117

PROMOTION

APRIL 23–26

South Walton Wine & Food Festival A dazzling roster of dozens of celebrity winemakers, distillers, chefs, brewmasters and entertainers converge in South Walton to wine, dine, educate and entertain guests as part of this four-day celebration of wine. Throughout the Town Center of Grand Boulevard, attendees can enjoy Spirits Row, RosĂŠ All Day Garden, Savor South Walton Culinary Village, Nosh Pavilions, the Craft Beer & Spirits Jam, live entertainment, tasting seminars and more than 600 wines poured by knowledgeable wine industry insiders.

Visit SoWalWine.com for tickets and information.

118

February-March 2020 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

calendar PROMOTION

FEB/MAR 2020 For more events in the EC, visit EmeraldCoastMagazine.com and 850tix.com. compiled by JAVIS OGDEN

FEBRUARY 20–23, FEBRUARY 27–MARCH 1

‘MAYTAG VIRGIN’ → Set in the fictional small town of

PHOTOS COURTESY OF SOUTH WALTON WINE & FOOD FESTIVAL, EMERALD COAST THEATRE COMPANY, NORTHWEST FLORIDA BALLET, OPENING NIGHTS AND SACRED HEART FOUNDATION

MARCH 23

Sacred Heart Foundation Emerald Ball

Lenoraville, Alabama, “Maytag Virgin” tells the story of recently widowed Elizabeth Nash and her new next door neighbor, Jack Key. Lizzy grieves outwardly over the recent death of her husband, but her inner world is filled with deep regret and secret longing.

“Maytag Virgin” is the perfect feel-good romantic/dramatic comedy with heart.

You will laugh, cry and applaud.

For more information, visit EmeraldCoastTheatre.org/on-stage.

→ The Emerald Ball at the Hilton Sandestin will

FEBRUARY 28 & MARCH 1

be an elegant evening with cocktails, dining and live music, and 100 percent of contributions will support the comprehensive spine and cardiology programs at Sacred Heart. This year is sure to deliver an even bigger night of fun and entertainment as we honor and celebrate Roger Hall, president of Ascension Sacred Heart Emerald Coast, for his contributions and service to this community. Tickets are on sale for $150 per person. Guests are encouraged to wear shades of emerald green.

‘Cinderella’

→ The Northwest Florida Ballet returns to the Mattie

Kelly Arts Center with the classic fairytale “Cinderella,” featuring live music from the NFB Symphony Orchestra.

Featuring the acclaimed choreography of NFB artistic director Todd Eric Allen and the beautiful music of Serge Prokofiev, this timeless classic is presented in three acts and brings to life a cavalcade of enchanting characters, brilliant dancing, vibrant costumes and a magical set sure to hold you under its spell.

For more information about the event, tickets and sponsorship opportunities visit SacredHeartEmeraldBall.com.

For more information, visit NFBallet.org/performances.

REGIONAL

MARCH 7

RYAN HAMILTON

→ Ryan Hamilton’s recently released first stand-up special, the one-hour Netflix original

“Happy Face,” follows a wealth of television appearances and a non-stop headlining tour.

Armed with the unique perspective of growing up in rural Idaho to become a favorite in the New York stand-up comedy scene, he’s one-of-a-kind. Ryan has been named one of Rolling Stone’s Five Comics to Watch, and recent appearances include “The Late Show with Stephen Colbert,” “Conan” and opening spots for Jerry Seinfeld.

For more information, visit OpeningNights.fsu.edu/events.

EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

February-March 2020

119

calendar

Pharmaceuticals Built

for

FEB/MAR 2020

You

because you are unique ...

MARCH 1

SEASIDE SCHOOL HALF-MARATHON & 5K

→ One of South Walton’s most popular events, the Seaside School Half Marathon & 5K starts at 7 a.m. Established in 2003 to raise funds for the Seaside Neighborhood School, the race has become a huge community affair, drawing in more than 4,000 runners annually from around the world. All proceeds benefit Seaside School, one of Florida’s first charter schools.

For more information, visit RunSeasideFL.com.

REGIONAL

Pharmaceutical compounding allows for your medical provider to offer specialized treatment. We can formulate your prescriptions to meet your individual needs.

Anti-Aging Bio-Identical Hormones Replacement Therapy Thyroid Replacement Therapy Dental

Dermatology Gastroenterology Infertility Men’s & Women’s Health Pain Management

Pediatric Podiatry Sports Medicine

APRIL 18–19

LeMoyne Chain of Parks Art Festival

→ Expect to have a first-class, fun-filled, outdoor cultural experience at the Chain of Parks Art Festival. View amazing, original and one-of-a-kind works of art in a delightful outdoor setting. Nationally ranked in the Top 5 Fine Art Festivals by Sunshine Artist magazine for five years running, this annual two-day festival draws tens of thousands of people from the Big Bend and Southeast to see over 170 artists who have traveled from all over the country to display their fine art.

For more information, visit ChainOfParks.com.

Veterinary And More!

1719 S Co. Highway 393, Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459 www.eccpharmacy.com, info@eccpharmacy.com Monday–Friday, 9 a.m.–5 p.m.

850-622-5800 Fax: 850-622-5802

2016–2019

PHARMACY

Facebook.com/ECCPharmacy Twitter.com/ECCPharmacy Instagram.com/ECCPharmacy PROMOTION

120

February-March 2020 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

PHOTOS COURTESY OF LEMOYNE CHAIN OF PARKS ART FESTIVAL AND SEASIDE SCHOOL HALF MARATHON & 5K

Regina Jaquess, PharmD 10 time World Water Ski Champion

Capt.on Dave’s the

SERVING LOCAL FLORIDA SEAFOOD AND STEAKS Dinner 4pm UNTIL …

For more information visit captdavesonthegulf.com

Gulf

Enjoy cocktails on the deck for sunset Happy Hour: 4–6pm Open 6 days a week (closed Tuesdays) Live Music

d CoaSt ral e m Ser rS ving the e yea 0 5 for over

Casual Gulf Front Dining. The locals’ favorite since 1968!

3796 Scenic Hwy 98, Destin | 850.837.2627 | captdavesonthegulf.com

CLIENT Trustmar

JOB NO 12140

DESCRI Mortgag

Three bedrooms.

Two baths.

Unlimited snuggles.

PUB Emerald

BUILT A 100%

A mortgage is much more than a loan, because a home is more than a house. It’s where you leave your mark and create memories that last for generations.

That’s why Trustmark works with each customer to find a mortgage option that works for them.

Explore your mortgage options at trustmark.com/mortgage

MEMBER FDIC

12140-Brand-Print Ad-Mortgage-EmeraldCoastMagazine.indd 1

EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

February-March 2020 121 3/26/19 9:04 AM

TRIM 7.875”w

BLEED +.125” o COLOR 4C

calendar

FEB/MAR 2020

and onto Pensacola Beach.

Runners cross two bridges that span Pensacola Bay and Santa Rosa Sound. pensacolasports.org/doublebridgerun

FLORA-BAMA’S ‘SUPER’ BOWL CHILI COOK-OFF FEB. 1

FEB. 1 Sinfonia Gulf Coast presents Daniel Hsu, one of the most exhilarating young pianists on the concert scene today, and two icons of Russian orchestral music: Dmitri Shostakovich and Sergei Rachmaninoff. sinfoniagulfcoast.org

PALATE & PALETTE FEB. 1 Shelter’s House 4th Annual Palate & Palette Dinner at Legendary Marine’s showroom in Destin will feature motherdaughter artists, Kathy and Krista Schumacher. At the end of the evening, their paintings will be auctioned off to the highest bidder in an exciting and competitive live auction.

Purchase tickets at 850tix.com. shelterhousenwfl.org/events

BAYTOWNE ON ICE FEB. 1 A visit to the ice skating rink in The Village of Baytowne Wharf at Sandestin will keep you in the winter spirit. The first hour of each day is reserved for Kids Skate, for children ages 12 and under. Skate rentals are available. baytownewharf.com

DOUBLE BRIDGE RUN Benefiting Children in Need in Northwest Florida

FEB. 1 The Pensacola Double Bridge Run, presented by Publix, is one of the premier 15Ks in the country. The race will start in downtown Pensacola and will pass through the historic district along picturesque Bayfront Parkway, through Gulf Breeze

122

February-March 2020 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

florabama.com/chili-cook-off.html

MOZART MADNESS FEB. 1 The soaring stained-glass windows of First United Methodist’s sanctuary provide a beautiful setting for a performance of Mozart’s “Violin Concerto No. 3,” featuring Concertmaster Leonid Yanovskiy in his 20th season with the Pensacola Symphony Orchestra. pensacolasymphony.com/ season-tickets

STORYTELLER SERIES: DINNER WITH BOOKER T FEB. 8 Booker T. Washington was the first African American to dine at the White House. Through song and dance, Mr. Washington recalls the infamous dinner.

This is a one-time performance during Emerald Coast Theatre Company’s Storyteller Series. emeraldcoasttheatre.org/on-stage

OBSERVATIONAL DRAWING WITH CAROLINE MANUEL FEB. 8 Get intimate with the creative spaces and places in historic downtown Thomasville as you hone your observational drawing skills. Artist-in-residence Caroline Manuel will guide the group to a different destination each session as she teaches observation and drawing techniques from 3:30– 5:30 p.m. at the Thomasville Center for the Arts Downtown.

Afterward, stop by Farmer’s Daughter Vineyards for a glass of their award-winning wines.

ThomasvilleGa.com/calendar/1466

PHOTO BY CAROLYN CRUZ / CLIBURN FOUNDATION COURTESY OF SINFONIA GULF COAST

↑ CLASSICAL CONNECTIONS: DANIEL HSU

In the spirit of the Super Bowl, teams will strive to serve up super bowls of chili and impress the judges at the Flora-Bama Lounge, Package & Oyster Bar in Pensacola. Warm up your winter by sampling the wide variety of entries. Awards will be announced at the end of the day.

Ginger’s

Optimize health, weight & looks!

DESTIN CONNECTION

Internal Medicine & Full Service Medical Spa

Finding a new house, condo or piece of property can be more painful than a poor-fitting pair of shoes, or as comfortable as your favorite sandals. So, in choosing a real estate agent, it’s important to get the right fit from the start.

I t ’s A l l A b o u t

®

4476 Legendary Drive, Destin | (850) 424-7320 | DrBawa.com Additional locations on 30A and Fort Walton

2019 2020

S E AS O N C A L E N DA R 2/9/2020

Bandstand the Musical

Broadway

2/21/2020

Jersey Boys

Broadway

3/7/2020

Dance - Music of Beethoven & Bernstein

NFSO

3/9/2020

Pete the Cat

Family

3/13/2020

Dale Berra

3/26/2020

Choir of Man

Artist

4/18/2020

Stars of Tomorrow / Evening at the Opera

NFSO

5/8/2020

Sponge Bob the Musical

TICKETS ON SALE NOW! MattieKellyArtsCenter.org

Speaker Series

Broadway

Northwest Florida State College is committed to equal access/equal opportunity in its programs, activities, and employment. For additional information, visit www.nwfsc.edu.

Materiales de la Universidad son disponibles en Española llamando a la Oficina de Admisiones de Northwest Florida State College al 850-729-5205.

I have been shopping with clients for 32 years, listening to their needs and desires, then vigorously pursuing the market until I find the right fit, and I will do the same for you!

MATTIE KELLY

100 College Boulevard E. | Niceville, FL EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

Northwest Fl Flo orida St State Co College

February-March 2020

123

FEB/MAR 2020

and 30 floats travel the parade route, throwing thousands of strings of beads to the crowd.

‘BANDSTAND’ FEB. 9 The three-time Tony Awardwinning Broadway musical, “Bandstand,” will explode onto Mattie Kelly Art Center’s stage in an infectious musical set in the United States in 1945.

standrewsmardigras.com

9TH ANNUAL 30A WINE FESTIVAL FEB. 19-23

FARMER’S DAUGHTER VINEYARDS NEW VINTAGE RELEASE

Sip and swill at the annual 30A Wine Festival, a mustexperience for fans of fine wines and the culinary arts.

Proceeds from the Wine Festival benefit the Children’s Volunteer Health Network.

FEB. 14

30awinefestival.com

The award-winning local vineyard is releasing a new vintage on Valentine’s Day that you won’t want to miss.

Stop by their tasting room in Thomasville, Georgia, for fun promos and pairings all weekend long.

‘JERSEY BOYS’

mattiekellyartscenter.org

KREWE OF ST. ANDREWS KIDS & PET PARADE FEB. 14 Get the party weekend started with a kid- and petfriendly parade. Afterward, enjoy food, bounce houses, entertainment and family fun. standrewsmardigras.com

‘CRESCENDO!’ FEB. 14-16 Sinfonia Gulf Coast presents “Crescendo!” a cultural and culinary extravaganza, to raise funds and awareness for Sinfonia and its music education outreach programs. This year’s theme is La Vie En Rose (life in pink) and will include a series of wine, paired vintner dinners as well as a gourmet luncheon with live music, high-end silent and live auctions. sinfoniagulfcoast.org

KREWE OF ST. ANDREWS MARDI GRAS PARADE FEB. 15 For 23 years, the St. Andrews Mardi Gras Parade has been the largest, most popular Mardi Gras celebration in Bay County. More than 14 krewes

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO

124

FEB. 21 Go behind the music and inside the story of Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons in the Tony and Grammy Awardwinning true-life musical phenomenon, “Jersey Boys.”

From the streets of New Jersey to the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, this is the musical that’s just too good to be true. mattiekellyartscenter.org

TASTE OF THE RACE FEB. 28 This event kicks off the Seaside School Half Marathon race weekend.

Enjoy cuisine from two of Emeril Lagasse’s famous restaurants along with some of the Gulf Coast’s top chefs, including Chef Jim Shirley and Chef Jim Richard. runseasidefl.com

PENSACON FEB. 28- MARCH 1 Pensacola’s Comic Con returns to the Pensacola Bay Center and Pensacola Grand Hotel with many celebrity authors, artists and actors present, including The Mandalorian, Power Rangers, Star Trek and more.

Lifestyle Show in Panama City Beach features major manufacturers and top dealers in the boat industry.

Come to see the boats and stay to attend a seminar or to check out the displays of the latest and greatest in fishing and diving gear, paddleboards, bicycles, activewear and more.

‘PETE THE CAT’

‘REQUIEM MASS’

MARCH 9

MARCH 28

Beloved childhood story book character, “Pete the Cat,” takes kiddie adventurers on a groovy trek that’s rocking enough for the whole family.

gulfboatshow.com

PRESIDENT’S SPEAKER SERIES: DALE BERRA

With soaring moments of joy and dramatic fanfare, Verdi’s “Requiem” is one of the most treasured choral works of all time. In a special artistic collaboration, the Pensacola Symphony Orchestra will join forces with four celebrated soloists and more than 120 voices from the University of Southern Mississippi Chorus for Verdi’s “Requiem Mass.”

RUSSIAN SPECTACULAR FEB. 29

MARCH 13

Enjoy romantic melodies and exotic themes in this annual performance featuring Russian composers. Your ears will be treated to Tchaikovsky’s “Variations on a Rococo Theme” and Rimsky-Korsakov’s dazzling “Scheherazade.”

Dale Berra, the son of Yogi Berra, is a former Major League Baseball infielder who played from 1977 to 1987 for the Pittsburgh Pirates, the New York Yankees and the Houston Astros. He will speak on the rewards and challenges of his career.

pensacolasymphony.com/ season-tickets

‘DANCE! THE MUSIC OF BEETHOVEN AND BERNSTEIN’ MARCH 7 “Dance! The Music of Beethoven and Bernstein” features Bernstein’s “West Side Story” and Beethoven’s “Symphony No. 7.” Guest conductor Steven Byess leads the North Florida Symphony Orchestra in an exciting evening of robust, rhythmic music, celebrating the elements of dance in symphonic works.

GULF BREEZE CELEBRATES THE ARTS FESTIVAL MARCH 28-29

Is it a party or a concert?

Set in a pub, this musical consists of nine blokes singing everything from pub tunes and folk to classic rock and Broadway classics.

The city of Gulf Breeze and Gulf Breeze Arts, Inc. (GBA) will present the 26th annual Gulf Breeze Celebrates the Arts fine arts festival at Gulf Breeze High School.

The juried festival will bring together quality local, regional and national artists.

mattiekellyartscenter.org

gulfbreezearts.com

THE CHOIR OF MAN MARCH 26

EMERALD COAST CAC’S GALA AND GOLF TOURNAMENT MARCH 8

FEB. 28- MARCH 1 The Emerald Coast Boat &

eccac.org

EMERALD COAST BOAT & LIFESTYLE SHOW

mattiekellyartscenter.org

pensacolasymphony.com/seasontickets

mattiekellyartscenter.org

Help abused, abandoned and neglected children by attending the Emerald Coast Children’s Advocacy Center Gala. This annual, signature fundraising event will include a delicious dinner, dancing and live entertainment at the Hilton Sandestin and a golf tournament at Kelly Plantation.

pensacon.com

mattiekellyartscenter.org

Details of listings can change at the last minute. Please call ahead of time to confirm.

February-March 2020 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

31ST ANNUAL SANDESTIN GUMBO FESTIVAL FEB. 14-15 Restaurants and businesses along the Gulf Coast will compete for the title of Area's Best as they serve up unique creations of a southern classic dish: gumbo. Held in The Village of Baytowne Wharf, this event promises to be a weekend filled with great food, live music and family fun. sandestingumbofestival.com

HAVE AN EVENT YOU’D LIKE US TO CONSIDER? Send an email to ec-calendar@rowlandpublishing.com.

PHOTO COURTESY OF SANDESTIN GOLF AND BEACH RESORT

calendar

E P I C P H OTO.CO | B E ST O F T H E E M E R A L D COAST 2 01 4 - 2 01 9

PHOTO BOOTHS HEADSHOTS PORTRAITS

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 County Restaurant 2014 - Best Pizza, Best Walton County Restaurant & Best Chef 2015 - Best Pizza 2016 - Best Pizza 2017 - Best Pizza & Best Chef 2018 - Best Pizza 2019- Best Restaurant in Walton County

Make it Epic!

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

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

EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

February-March 2020

125

PROMOTION

TOMMY PAUL, 2019 FINALIST

T

he sounds of tennis will return to the Capital City the week of April 20–26 at Forestmeadows Tennis Center for the 21st annual Tallahassee Tennis Challenger, presented by Visit Tallahassee. Tennis lovers and enthusiasts can witness professional American and international tennis players compete in an ATP Challenger 80 event. The biggest prize goes beyond money as the Tallahassee Challenger is one of three events where Americans can earn points for a spot in the main draw of the French Open Grand Slam.

“The most exciting thing about the Challenger is being able to see these professional players, that you often only get to watch on television, right in front of you,” said Karen

Vogter, tournament director. “These are athletes on the professional circuit, and being able to watch them play, watch their shots, is just amazing. It’s a great opportunity for people to see these premier athletes without it costing an arm and a leg.”

Attendees can purchase a weeklong pass or buy daily tickets; prices increase throughout the week. This flexibility makes it easy to attend on your schedule, and all proceeds benefit a worthy cause.

This yearly event benefits the Vogter Endowment for the Neurointensive Care Unit at Tallahassee Memorial Hospital.

This unit cares for patients who suffer from neurological trauma, such as strokes, aneurysms, spinal cord injuries and traumatic brain injuries. They also care for patients

with epilepsy/seizures, headaches, memory disorders, Parkinson’s disease and more. Over $875,000 has been raised for the unit in the past 20 years.

“Not only are attendees getting to see professional tennis up close and personal, but they are also doing something that helps our community by supporting the Vogter Endowment and tennis in the city of Tallahassee,” said Vogter. “Fans feel good about supporting this cause and knowing their money is going toward something bigger than all of us.”

This event would not be possible without the generous support of sponsors such as Visit Tallahassee, avid community members, tennis loving travelers and the countless volunteers who make the week enjoyable.

To purchase tickets or to find out about sponsorship opportunities, visit TALLAHASSEECHALLENGER.COM

126

February-March 2020 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

PHOTO COURTESY OF JACOB STUCKEY

In Its 21st Year, Tournament Nets Local, National and International Crowd

F E AT U R E D L U X U R Y L I S T I N G S

HendersonParkside.com

235 S Bayshore Drive VALPARASIO

1660 E Co Hwy 30A, Unit 101 WATERCOLOR 2 Bd | 2 Full Ba | 1,286 Sq Ft | $995,000

PARKSIDE HENDERSON BEACH RESORT 1 - 3 Bedroom | Starting at $519,000

3 Bd | 2 Full Ba | 1,845 Sq Ft | $400,000 Offered by Mary Gianelloni c: 850.499.8333 | MaryG@theppg .com

Offered by Sona Chambers c: 678.612.7474 | Sona@theppg.com

Y

BA

Offered by Bryan Whitehead c: 205.937.7784 | Bryan@theppg.net

NT

O FR

L

GU

T

ON

R FF

New Construction

3598 Rosaie Drive DESTIN POINTE

4 Bd | 3 Full / 1 Half Ba | 2,095 Sq Ft | $995,000 Offered by Katie Atwater c: 850.502.9120 | Katie@DestinFineHomes.com

5 Bd | 4 Full / 1 Half Ba | 3,789 Sq Ft | $2,400,000

1023 Driftwood Point Rd DRIFTWOOD ESTATES

138 Camp Creek Point SEACREST BEACH 6 Bd | 8 Ba | 6,423 Sq Ft | $10,000,000

Offered by Shelby Rochester c: 850.714.4788 | Shelby@theppg.net

Offered by Keith Flippo c: 850.543.5187 | Keith@theppg.net

SEACREST BEACH | WATERCOLOR | DESTIN | NICEVILLE

ThePremierPropertyGroup.com

This advertisement is not an offer to sell or solicitation to buy, to residents of any state or province in which registration and other legal requirements have not been fulfilled.

This advertisement is not intended to solicit properties currently listed by other real estate brokerages. All advertised square footages should be verified by the buyer.

Obtain the Property Report required by Federal law and read it before signing anything. No federal agency has judged the merits of value, if any, of these properties.

EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

February-March 2020

127

PROMOTION

SOCIAL STUDIES 1

Harvest Wine & Food Festival OCT. 24-26 The Harvest Wine & Food Festival provided patrons the opportunity to sip and savor some of the world’s finest wine and culinary selections while enjoying the beautiful beach town of WaterColor. Emerald Coast Magazine sponsored the VIP Tent, where guests enjoyed the magazine’s signature cocktail, the Emerald Apple Mule, and wine selections from Prime Cellars, Gamble Family Vineyards, Catena Zapata, Roy Estate, Purlieu and Knight’s Bridge Winery. Chefs from The Essential in Birmingham, Coastal Catering & Events and Restaurant Paradis provided food. Staff members also donned unique gems from Bijoux De Mer Fine Jewelry as guests captured personal GIFs at the Epic Photo Co. booth. Also present at the VIP tent were Destination Jets and The Henderson, which provided lavender champagne as guests entered.

1

2

PHOTOS COURTESY OF DESTIN CHARITY WINE AUCTION

1 Stephanie and George Brannon Jr. 2 Rachel Azzolini and Christina Abbott 3 George Brannon, Jr. and Rebecca Allen 4 Shelly Hinojosa and Dr. Lan O’Donnell 5 McKenzie Burleigh, Rhonda Murray, Dara McLeod, Darla Harrison, Renee Launiere, Mackenzie Little, Julie Dorr, Tracy Mulligan and Kate Pierson

3

5

128

February-March 2020 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

4

Cinderella Tickets On Sale Now! February 28 @ 7:30pm March 1 @ 2:30pm

Mattie Kelly Arts Center Live Music by the Northwest Florida Ballet Symphony Orchestra

Box Office Ticket Prices: Adults • $40 Children 12 & Under • $20

Join us for a special 50th Anniversary Gala on February 29. Visit our website for details!

Sponsored In Part by:

850.664.7787

nfballet.org

Signature Season Co-Sponsors:

Inspiring 50 Years of Excellence...

EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

February-March 2020

129

PROMOTION

SOCIAL STUDIES 2019 Best of the Emerald Coast NOV. 16 The streets of Grand Boulevard came alive with the eclectic flare of the Best of the Emerald Coast. After a onemonth delay due to a tropical storm, the 20th iteration of this flagship event couldn’t have been better. Attendees were treated to a festive evening as dozens of local businesses set up shop to help showcase what makes it the “best.” Proceeds benefited the Junior League of the Emerald Coast’s Child Clothing Project. With the help of efforts like Best of the Emerald Coast, this initiative is able to clothe more than 400 children in Okaloosa and Walton counties each year. Emerald Coast Magazine would like to thank the community and our sponsors for their endless support: Grand Boulevard, Carr Riggs & Ingram CPAs and Advisors, Silver Sands Premium Outlets, Counts Real Estate, ResortQuest by Wyndham, Brotula’s Seafood House & Steamer, Trulieve, Distillery 98, The Hive Creative Consulting, Farmer’s Daughter Vineyards, Land Air Sea Productions, Eloquent Signs, Gulf Power Company, Idyll Hounds, Proffitt PR, Estuary Oysters and Emerald Coast Audio Visual.

PHOTOS BY LAND AIR SEA PRODUCTIONS

1

3 2

1 Catherine Woodling, Elizabeth and Jeff Newcamp, Matt and Colleen Weinschenker, Suzanne Abs and Scott Hartman 2 Katherine Green, Sarah White and Erin Bakker 3 Kay Phelan, Ben Ferguson and Debra Henry 4 Jill Woody with Angela and Darrell Turner 5 Blair Cooke, Lisa McCraw and Melissa Bird

4

130

February-March 2020 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

5

JOSEPH A. PEDONE, MD, FACC, FACP, FSCAI, CDDR Interventional Cardiologist MICHAEL L. YANDEL, MD, FACC, FSCAI Interventional Cardiologist JUAN C. ZARATE, MD, FACC, FSCAI Interventional Cardiologist ANTHONY S. AL-DEHNEH, DO, FACC, FSCAI Interventional Cardiologist ANGEL D. MORROBEL, MD, FACC Invasive Cardiologist AJIT H. JANARDHAN, MD, PhD, FACC, FHRS Cardiac Electrophysiology IAN L. WEISBERG, MD, Cardiac Electrophysiology

BESTIN DESTIN VIP DESTIN MAGAZINE READER CHOICE AWARD

2017

Best Cardiologist

Providing current, comprehensive health care in the diagnosis, prevention and treatment of heart problems since 1991, Okaloosa Heart & Vascular Center offers a full range of integrated cardiac services, from patient education through inpatient care, including: Clinical Cardiology and Consultation, Echocardiography, Vascular Ultrasound, Exercise Testing, Holter and Event Monitoring, Nuclear Cardiac Imaging, Cardiac Catheterization, Coronary Angioplasty, Intra-Coronary Stenting, Cardiac Electrophysiology and Cardiac PET Scanning. With 4 interventional cardiologists, 2 cardiac electrophysiologists, 1 invasive cardiologist and 4 local offices to serve you, the staff is committed to exploring new technologies and techniques that provide better ways to care for their patients, and to treating each patient like a person rather than a diagnosis.

DESTIN 36468 Emerald Coast Parkway Suite 1101 Destin, FL 32541 (850) 424-5638

NICEVILLE 552 Twin Cities Boulevard Suite A Niceville, FL 32578 (850) 279-4426

FORT WALTON BEACH 1032 Mar Walt Drive Suite 110 Fort Walton Beach, FL 32547 (850) 862-1753

OkaloosaHeart.com

CRESTVIEW 129 Redstone Ave. Suite A Crestview, FL 32539 (850) 682-7212

EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

February-March 2020

131

PROMOTION

SOCIAL STUDIES The Market Shops Bloody Mary Festival NOV. 2 The Market Shops fifth annual Bloody Mary Festival, recently named the “Best Local Event” by Emerald Coast Magazine, raised a record-breaking $25,000 for Habitat for Humanity–Walton County. The sold-out event featured unlimited tastes of the Emerald Coast’s most creative bloody marys served by the finest restaurants and bars in the Panhandle, along with music, food, shopping, football and a bloody good time.

1

2

PHOTOS BY LAND AIR SEA PRODUCTIONS

1 Justin Shelton, Kait Burke, Kate Cruit and James Austin, Jr. 2 Jake and Heather Pugh 3 Jessica Proffitt Bracken and Taylor Sheekley 4 Sharon Martin, Tarrie Dormanen and Camille Johnston

3

4

Baytowne Wharf Beer Festival OCT. 11-12 The 12th annual Baytowne Wharf Beer Fest at Sandestin welcomed thousands of beer drinkers to what is known as the “Best Beer Fest on the Emerald Coast.” This year’s festival featured more than 40 on-site craft brewers, nearly 200 domestic and international craft beers, seminars, samplings and live music.

Brewery representatives at the event taught attendees about lagers and ales and the variety of styles.

1

PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE GOOD LIFE DESTIN

1 Beer lovers donned their best lederhosen in October to enjoy the wide variety of beers at the Baytowne Wharf Beer Fest at Sandestin.

2 Volunteers served over 200 domestic and international craft beers to festivalgoers.

3 Luke Langford Band provided entertainment at the Baytowne Wharf Beer Fest.

3

132

February-March 2020 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

2

Want a $0 Power Bill?

25 Year Warranty 30% Federal Tax Credit Still Available Call for a Free Consultation

Mimmo invites you to enjoy and experience traditional authentic Italian cuisine from his hometown of Sicily.

Italian

4507 Furling Lane, Suite 114, Destin | (850) 739-2519 MerakiSolutions.com | Noah.Weiner@MerakiSolutions.com

979 US HWY 98 E | Destin

850.460.7353

(in the 98 Palms Shopping Plaza)

EatMimmos.com

EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

February-March 2020

133

134

February-March 2020 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

PROMOTION

Giving Is Glamorous At Best of the Emerald Coast 2019 The Junior League of the Emerald Coast raises funds to clothe local children in need BY HANNAH BURKE

PHOTOS BY LAND AIR SEA PRODUCTIONS

I

n a grandiose sea of gourmet fare, prosecco toasts and silent art auctions, Edward Lannon intricately poured shots of Fireball Cinnamon Whisky into red plastic mini-solo cups.

“I’m staying in my lane,” Lannon explained, looking up from his frat house-style party table. “I can’t compete with all the big guys here, so I’m sticking with what I know.”

Lannon, who for the first time was experiencing the annual Best of the Emerald Coast event, presented by Emerald Coast Magazine, co-owns National Property Inspections Emerald Coast with his wife and was deemed Best Property Inspector by the annual Emerald Coast reader’s poll.

And, as guests meandered through Grand Boulevard at Sandestin on a crisp November night, Lannon found his red-hot shots to be a flaming success. Mrs. Lannon had to run out to get more cups.

“Fireball wouldn’t have been as welcome if we’d stuck with the original date,” he surmised, “but it’s cold out, so it’s going fast.”

Indeed, a mid-October tropical storm warning forced the 2019 Best of the Emerald

Coast bash to take a rain check. But Saturday, Nov. 16, proved that the party, albeit rescheduled, was no less great, as hundreds bundled up to celebrate the most elite in local business.

It was a bit of a piggyback celebration for Emerald Coast Magazine, too, as 2020 marks the 20th anniversary for the area’s first consumer lifestyle magazine. Parallel from Lannon’s booth, guests were welcomed at the Emerald Coast Magazine hospitality tent with a delectable sampling of Farmer’s Daughter Vineyards wine and selections from Idyll Hounds Brewing Company. Adjacent, a molecularly structured sculpture of pearlescent emerald-green and gold balloons by Mingle 30A, as well as a massive, balloonemblazoned “20,” served as the backdrop for 30A Life Photo Booth’s souvenir snaps.

It was just a taste of the glitz and glamor awaiting in the VIP tent, where guests were greeted by the Hive Creative Consulting’s sparkling stilt-walker, LED glow-in-the-dark glasses of champagne cocktails and Silver Sands Premium Outlets swag bags.

Inside, more balloons chandeliered over

EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

February-March 2020

135

136

where the soulful, funky bassline to a Shank & Johnny jam had mesmerized a girl no more than four years old. Her erratic dance moves, no doubt fueled by the Fun 4 Emerald Coast Kids’ cotton candy stick she clenched in her fist, were priceless.

Just beyond, Trulieve, an Emerald Coast Magazine sponsor, was giving away everything from embroidered beanies and trucker hats, to cotton totes and shades.

William Longmore, who works at Trulieve’s Destin site, believes they are one of Florida’s strongest medical marijuana dispensaries going.

“We’re providing people with any information they want to know about the dispensary, products or getting their medical marijuana cards,” said Longmore, motioning to an informational pamphlet. It details the application process, as well as a list of local, cannabisfriendly clinicians with whom you can book an evaluation.”

From there, I spot a billowing smoke signal curling up from McGuire’s makeshift burger bar at the PROMOTION

February-March 2020 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

end of the boulevard. Their hotoff-the-grill patties, piled high with sweet onion, lettuce and tomato, could only be described as juicy, and I at once admired the ingenuity of a couple of fellas eating theirs directly over a bin.

My napkin aided me then and immediately after, as a sampling of Shunk Gulley Oyster Bar’s smoked Yellowfin tuna dip, infused and innervated by JC’s Gourmet peppers, worked to clear my sinuses.

(A cool-down was called for, and a scoop of salted caramel blondie ice cream from Miramar Beach’s Ben & Jerry’s did just the trick.)

Pangs of overindulgence came a knockin’, and I took a breather with Bethany Worley, president of the Junior League of the Emerald Coast (JLEC), to whom the event’s proceeds will go.

The Best of the Emerald Coast is one of the volunteer organization’s biggest fundraising events of the year, as every dollar benefits their Child Clothing Project. In partnering with Target, JLEC is able to clothe more than 400 children

in Okaloosa and Walton counties each year.

“We’re sort of only scratching the surface because there are over 6,000 children that qualify for our program based off those enrolled on a free and reduced lunch program,” Worley said. “So, the more funds we receive each year, the more children we’re able to impact, and the more lives we’re able to better in our community.

This my favorite event that we put on by far, as it’s one of the hugest parties of the year and really makes a difference.”

“The 20th annual celebration of Best of the Emerald Coast was spectacular,” declared Rowland Publishing sales and events manager Mac Little. “Businesses, both new to the Best of event and seasoned pros, showcased why they were voted the best in their category. We are honored to plan such a large community event that showcases why the Emerald Coast is the best place to live, while also contributing to the Junior League of the Emerald Coast’s mission.”

PHOTOS BY LAND SEA AIR PRODUCTIONS

stations of balsamic-drizzled lamb lollipops served by Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar, crispy shallot-topped steaks doled out by Seagar’s Prime Steaks & Seafood’s and coconut cake confections courtesy of Tommy Bahama’s Restaurant.

Rowland Publishing account executive Darla Harrison had earlier advised me to try Solaris/ Sunquest’s seafood gumbo and, as she hails from New Orleans, I just knew I’d want to lick the bowl.

By recommendation of Steve Bornhoft, editor of our sister publication, 850 Business Magazine, I washed it down with an Idyll Hounds Boosh, a dry-hopped IPA with crisp, fruity undertones.

I was further tempted to imbibe as I made my way out of the tent, overhearing Distillery 98 inform a pea coat-clad woman of their “grain-to-glass” distilling process.

Made from locally grown corn, a shot of their Dune Lake Vodka required no chaser.

I paused in the central plaza on my journey back to main street,

presented by

benefitting

sponsored by

To see all the images, video highlights and the complete list of winners visit

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM/BEST-OF-THE-EMERALD-COAST

EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

February-March 2020

137

S

EMER AL

D AST

Special Edition

CO

20 YE AR

OF

2000–20

MA

GAZIN

E

POSTSCRIPT We like to say that Emerald Coast Magazine tries to capture the essence of the Emerald Coast one compelling story at a time. But a consumer lifestyle magazine is so much more than its editorial content. We hope it is an intrinsic part of the community we serve. Without our loyal advertising partners, readers and fans, Emerald Coast Magazine would not be possible. Thank you for sharing well wishes and memories. Here is to the next 20 …

MARCIA HULL, MATTIE KELLY ARTS FOUNDATION, DESTIN

“Each time Emerald Coast Magazine hits my mail box, the best part is always taking in the cover. The diverse imagery and cool colors pull me in, but the slightly gritty feel is what reassures me that this edition, like all the ones before, will truly capture life on the Emerald Coast.”

LESLIE MOLAND, WHITE-WILSON MEDICAL FOUNDATION, CHOCTAW BEACH

“Good, local journalism is crucial for any community, and Emerald Coast Magazine and Rowland Publishing are terrific partners in helping make Northwest Florida the vibrant, caring community that we love.”

DAVID DEMAREST, VISIT SOUTH WALTON, SANTA ROSA BEACH

“Zandra Wolfgram was one of the first people to encourage my art career.

She was responsible for my article in EC Magazine, which introduced me to the Panhandle.”

ANDY SACZYNSKI, ANDY SACZYNSKI ART, DESTIN

“I love Emerald Coast Magazine and its editor.

It’s the first one I read when it comes. It’s the best.”

EDWIN WATTS, SHALIMAR

Congratulations on your 20-year milestone. You have helped us build the E.F. San Juan brand, and in the process we have built an enduring partnership. Best wishes for continued success.”

EDWARD A. SAN JUAN, E.F. SAN JUAN, INC., YOUNGSTOWN

138

February-March 2020 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

I am honored to say that Emerald Coast Magazine, the Rowland Publishing team and Best of the Emerald Coast have been a part of my life since the day I started my career 12 years ago. I applaud this incredible organization for how much they’ve influenced our community over the last two decades and helped pioneer the magazine industry in the region.”

JESSICA PROFFITT BRACKEN, PROFFITT PR, MIRAMAR BEACH

PHOTOS BY LAWRENCE DAVIDSON (HULL), MICHAEL BOOINI (E.F. SAN JUAN), LORI SACZYNSKI (SACZYNSKI) AND COURETSY OF JESSICA PROFFITT BRACKEN

“I remember meeting Brian Rowland in the former Mattie Kelly homestead to introduce me to his new vision, Emerald Coast Magazine.

At the first Best of the Emerald Coast awards event, MKAF was voted as the Best Place to be Seen! Thank you to the Rowland Publishing team that continues today in sharing our story.”

C E L E B R AT I N G

25 YEARS IN BUSINESS

12870 U.S. Highway 98 West, Miramar Beach, FL 32550, (850) 837-5563

ON THE EMERALD COAST!

Shoppes @ Inlet, 13625 Emerald Coast Pkwy East, Inlet Beach, FL 32461, (850) 909-0435

Licensed and Published Design Firm

LOVEL ACEINTERIORS.COM

The Crest 2210 W County Hwy 30A Royce Mitchell roycewmitchell@gmail.com Cell: (850) 737-0567 Office: (850) 267-0013

Offered at $1,945,000 The Crest is Scenic 30A's newest, luxury home development! Comprised of nine Gulf-view homes, The Crest provides the owners with stunning architecture, luxurious amenities, quality finishes, and glorious views of the Gulf of Mexico without the price of Gulf Front! These 3500 sq. ft residences offer two living areas, five bedrooms, five bathrooms, one half bath, covered parking, Thermador appliances, an elevator, and a 515 sq. ft. rooftop terrace with cooking area and a half bath! Enjoy the community pool from your private pool-side cabana. Visit www.TheCrest30A.com to learn more.

Luke Andrews luke.andrews@penfedrealty.com Cell: (850) 978-0545 Office: (850) 267-0013

Watercolor 254 Red Cedar Way

Dale Stackable dale@dalestackable.com Cell: (850) 699-1885 Office: (850) 267-0013

Offered at $1,850,000 This four-bedroom, four-and-a-half bath home is fully updated and ready to move in! There is plenty of room for the entire family plus ample entertaining space on the two screened in porches complete with an outdoor gas fireplace. The property features beamed ceilings, cottage wainscoting, custom cabinets, custom closets, and marble floors. Located steps away from the newly renovated and enlarged Camp Watercolor, this home is the perfect location for a rental or second home.

Now with SIX locations serving the Emerald Coast MIRAMAR BEACH 9375 Emerald Coast Parkway, Unit 18 | (850) 267-0050 SANTA ROSA BEACH 7684 W. County Highway 30A | (850) 267-0013 NICEVILLE 1073 E. John Sims Parkway Suite | (850) 729-0176 PENSACOLA 8775 Foxtail Loop | (850) 944-3700 PENSACOLA 17 W. Cedar St. | (850) 434-2244 GULF BREEZE 836 Gulf Breeze Parkway | (850) 932-6278

www.BHHSPenFed.com

Commercial and Residential Real Estate Group

Real Estate Team

Š2019 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.ÂŽ Equal Housing Opportunity.