Emerald Coast Magazine- December/January 2016

Joyful Sounds Choirs and musicians unite their audiences in spirit of celebration

BETTER LIVES Charities turn gifts into results

OUT OF WATER

What to do when sea life hits beach

TOUR DE FRANCE Countryside captivates bicyclists

UP IN SMOKE

Fine cigars always spark conversation

PLUS We get you ready for the holidays

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EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

December 2016–January 2017

3

Bridal Design and Gallery

BEST of the BEST Kirk Kara Sylvie Kwiat Henri Daussi Simon G McCaskill Signature Bridal Michael Bondanza Steven Kretchmer JFA Designs Alex Sepkus Benchmark Louis Glick Oscar Heyman Forevermark

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December 2016–January 2017 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

Contents

DEC 2016/JAN 2017

60



TOUR DE FRANCE

Departing the City of Lights, a couple, fueled by wine, explores the French countryside.

PISAPHOTOGRAPHY / SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

by MCKENZIE BURLEIGH LOHBECK

66

MARINE LIFE RESCUES

When encountering stranded marine mammals and other sea life, it’s best to contact an expert.

by JASON DEHART

74

GRACIOUS GIVING

Not-for-profit organizations turn generosity into results.

by ZANDRA WOLFGRAM

EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

December 2016–January 2017

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Contents

DEC 2016/JAN 2017

53 98 HEARTFELT, HOMEMADE

19 19 SALVAGE SANTA

Mike Jones rehabs bikes for deserving kids.

22 A DOSE OF JOHNNY C For many, he is the “Voice of the Emerald Coast.”

24 CHAMPION FOR

CHILDREN Tiffanie Nelson combats hunger among school children.

26 TALES OF YORDAN

Slaying, well, it was not quite a dragon

PANACHE

29 SMOKIN’ Cigar bars are built for relaxed conversation.

34 CITIZEN OF STYLE

Susan Panter has a passion for fashion.

100 GREEN THUMB

Spring bulbs, pesky pets and garden chores

IN EVERY ISSUE

36 GIRLS’ NIGHT OUT Hit the town for a night with your best gal-pals.

96

38 RETAIL ROUNDUP

What’s new in stores.

EXPRESSION

43 BRUSHES AND

GASTRO & GUSTO 53 FANCIFUL FARE

The Union Public House reinvents culinary standards.

BOUQUETS

Set your creativity free — one sip of wine at a time.

46 CHOIRS OF THE COAST

56 BAKED, FRIED OR RAW

The season ushers in delightful voices.

48 STAGING CLASSICS Players bring your favorite holiday scenes to life.

50 YULETIDE LITERATURE Stories that always bear re-reading

34

Susan Panter has an affinity for antique sewing machines.

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December 2016–January 2017 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

Bet you can’t eat just one dozen.

58 A NOD TO NOG

This isn’t your granny’s eggnog.

12 PUBLISHER’S LETTER 14 EDITOR’S COLUMN 120 SOCIAL STUDIES 125 DINING GUIDE 130 P OSTSCRIPT

A BODES 93 DECKING DOORS

Wreaths, wraps and decorations galore

96 BACK TO BASICS

We’re dreaming of a white kitchen.

Joyful Sounds Choirs and musicians unite their audiences in spirit of celebration

BETTER LIVES Charities turn gifts into results

OUT OF WATER

What to do when sea life hits beach

TOUR DE FRANCE Countryside captivates bicyclists

UP IN SMOKE

Fine cigars always spark conversation

PLUS We get you ready for the holidays

ON THE COVER: Exuberant violinist Lori Jean Smith of Orlando will invite all to raise a joyful noise when she accompanies the Mattie Kelly Community Chorus at the annual Sounds of the Season celebration, set for Dec. 2 at Village Baptist Church in Destin.

Community choirs are warming up their pipes for performances up and down the Emerald Coast; see page 46. COVER PHOTO BY TIMOTHY SMITH

PHOTOS BY MICHAEL BOOINI (19), DAVE BARFIELD (53), JOHNSTON ROBERTS (96) AND IAKOV FILIMONOV/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM (34)

THE WAVE

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W W W . S K I N A N D V E I N S . C O M EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

December 2016–January 2017

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DEC 2016/JAN 2017



Contents

SPECIAL SECTIONS AND PROMOTIONS

83

SACRED HEART FOUNDATION

The “Stories from the Heart” section features heartwarming and inspiring stories from those who have been impacted by and impact The Sacred Heart Foundation. These stories revolve around people helping people.

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↑ GIFT GUIDE

We have the perfect present for every person. All you need is the bow and wrapping paper.

108

HEALTH AND FITNESS

New year, new you? Our health and fitness profiles will introduce you to the health and fitness services, studios and businesses promoting active lifestyles year-round.

102

DEAL ESTATE Take a tour of Destin’s most coveted home, The Destin Jewel, which features 9 bedrooms, a resort-style pool and 100 feet of private beach. Next, view a home recently off the market, overlooking Garnier Bayou.

Feedback DEAR ROWLAND TEAM: Bravo to each of you who was involved in planning and executing the fantastic “Best of the Emerald Coast” event on Saturday, Oct. 22, at Grand Boulevard. The Rowland team was like a well-oiled machine! I heard so many nice compliments at the event and there was such a positive vibe. The booth judging went great and hopefully there were no sore losers. I was able to take your Emerald Coast Magazine managing editor, Matt Algarin, to an upstairs patio to get some great overhead shots and look forward to seeing those.

We love working with you all and hope the event met the fundraising goal for the Junior League of the Emerald Coast.

Thank you!

112 ← CALENDAR

Events, exhibits and live performances crowd the docket of inviting things to do up and down the Emerald Coast.

30A SONGWRITERS FESTIVAL, CHEAP TRICK

Professional Profiles, Best of the Emerald Coast Event Recap and Emerald Coast Top Salon Nominations Next Issue Women’s SPECIAL PROMOTION

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December 2016–January 2017 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

FEEDBACK SUBMISSION GUIDELINES

We welcome comments on our efforts and gladly will share them with our readers subject to a few guidelines. When submitting a letter for publication, please supply your full name, physical address, phone number and personal email address. This information will help us verify authorship; it will not be shared with others or used for any commercial purpose. Letters, when published, will appear with the writer’s name and city of residence. We reserve the right to edit letters and to shorten them for space. Submit letters via email to letters@rowlandpublishing.com or mail them to: Feedback, Rowland Publishing 1932 Miccosukee Road, Tallahassee, FL 32308

PHOTOS COURTESY 0F HILTON SANDESTIN GOLF AND BEACH RESORT (40) AND PROPELLER PUBLICITY (112)

STACEY BRADY DIRECTOR OF MARKETING AND COMMUNICATIONS GRAND BOULEVARD AT SANDESTIN, MIRAMAR BEACH

EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

December 2016–January 2017

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EMERALD COAST MAGAZINE

VOL. 17, NO. 6

DECEMBER 2016–JANUARY 2017

PRESIDENT/PUBLISHER BRIAN E. ROWLAND

EDITORIAL

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Open at 11AM • Closing hours vary by season 202 Harbor Blvd., Destin • 837-7525

DIRECTOR OF EDITORIAL SERVICES/EDITOR Steve Bornhoft MANAGING EDITOR Matt Algarin SENIOR STAFF WRITER Jason Dehart EDITORIAL COORDINATOR Rebecca Padgett ASSISTANT TO DIRECTOR OF EDITORIAL SERVICES Kim Harris Thacker CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Hannah Burke, Joni Branch, Jennifer Ireland, McKenzie Burleigh Lohbeck, Tisha Crews Keller, Lis King, Sandi Poreda, Audrey Post, Liesel Schmidt, Zandra Wolfgram, Gary Yordon EDITORIAL INTERNS Nina Rodriguez-Marty, Reeves Trivette, Joseph Zeballos-Roig PRODUCTION SPECIALIST Melinda Lanigan

CREATIVE CREATIVE DIRECTOR Lawrence Davidson DIRECTOR OF PRODUCTION AND TECHNOLOGY Daniel Vitter SENIOR ART DIRECTOR Saige Roberts ART DIRECTOR Jennifer Ekrut PUBLICATION DESIGNERS Charles Bakofsky, Shruti Shah GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Meredith Brooks, Sarah Mitchell DIGITAL PRODUCTION SPECIALIST Chelsea Moore CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS John-Abbott, Matt Algarin, Lindy Allen Photography, Dave Barfield, Chelsea Blaich, Michael Booini, Jim Clark, Lawrence Davidson, Todd Douglas Photography, Jason Ellis of 8 Fifty Productions, Chas Galloway, Kevin Hubbard, McKenzie and Stephen Lohbeck, Steven Mangum, Karen Parker, Kay Phelan, Audrey Post, Johnston Roberts, Travis Shinn Photography, Timothy Smith, Caroline Stuckey, Jacqueline Ward Images, Troy Ward Photography, Chase Yakaboski

SALES, MARKETING AND EVENTS VICE PRESIDENT/CORPORATE DEVELOPMENT McKenzie Burleigh Lohbeck DIRECTOR OF NEW BUSINESS Daniel Parisi ADVERTISING SERVICES COORDINATOR Tracy Mulligan, Lisa Sostre ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Bess Grasswick, Darla Harrison, Lori Magee Yeaton, Rhonda Lynn Murray, Dan Parker, Linda Powell, Paula Sconiers, Alice Watts, Brianna Webb ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE/SPECIAL PROJECTS COORDINATOR Sarah Scott EVENTS AND SPECIAL PROJECTS COORDINATOR Leigha Inman INTEGRATED MARKETING SPECIALIST Jennifer Ireland INTEGRATED MARKETING COORDINATOR Bria Blossom MARKETING AND EVENTS ASSISTANT Mackenzie Ligas

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ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES/HUMAN RESOURCE COORDINATOR Marah Rhone CORPORATE CLIENT LIAISON Sara Goldfarb STAFF ACCOUNTANT Jackie Burns ACCOUNTANT ASSISTANT Lisa Cleaves ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT Lisa Snell 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

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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, Pensacola and Panama City Beach.

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 December 2016 Emerald Coast Magazine Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is prohibited.

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December 2016–January 2017

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Happy Holidays!

OUR BEST TO YOU The entire Rowland publishing family of 36 publishing professionals wishes you and all whom you love and care for a happy and safe holiday season. We also extend a special, heartfelt thanks to the businesses whose support enables us to do what we love — design and produce over 20 titles that are …

CURRENT • QUOTABLE • WELL-READ —BRIAN ROWLAND, ROWLAND PUBLISHING

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December 2016–January 2017 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

Luxury Living at affordable prices

Free Design Service Indoor & Outdoor Large local inventory Quick turn on Custom Orders

Thank You for voting us Best Furniture Store of The Emerald Coast

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December 2016–January 2017

13

editor’s letter

Can you believe it’s already winter and New Year’s Eve is right around the corner? Last time I looked at the calendar, I swore it was only October and I was getting ready for our Best of the Emerald Coast celebration at Grand Boulevard.

Talk about a fantastic event. What an amazing celebration. I’d like to personally thank each and every volunteer, sponsor and business that helped make our annual event, benefitting the Junior League of the Emerald Coast, a smashing success. We couldn’t have done it without you and are glad to call you partners.

With the holiday season now upon us, all I can think about are memories of years past and the traditions we shared. As a small child, I can remember anxiously awaiting the big day. The scene had been set — decorations had been hung with care and everything was meticulously crafted to create a memory. My sister and I hadn’t slept all night, as anticipation had taken over every thought. The idea of bounding down the stairs and shredding wrapping paper was almost too much to handle.

But as exciting as it was to finally reach the crescendo and unwrap whatever the fad of the year was, there’s a memory that stands out in my mind more than the gifts. Each year, before we were allowed to unwrap a single gift, my parents would casually, and painstakingly, sit and sip their coffee.

One cup, then two cups, and so on. Somehow this event, which probably lasted about 30 minutes, seemed to drag on for a lifetime. I can only sit back and smile now as I think about it and plan to incorporate the tactic into my arsenal in the future.

Our holiday traditions mostly revolved around family time and classic movies. From the time I was a youngster until today, if “Rudolph, the Red-Nosed Reindeer,” “Frosty the Snowman,” “Nestor, the Long-Eared Christmas Donkey” or “A Christmas Story” is on TV, I’m watching them.

Growing up in Ohio, the holiday season looked quite a bit different than it does along the Emerald Coast. While I have seen snowfall on a few occasions during my 22 years in Florida, we tend to dream of a different white Christmas than our northern friends.

I’m fond of saying that I’ve traded the white snow of Ohio for the sugar-white sands of the Emerald Coast.

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December 2016–January 2017 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

Now that I think about it, a palm tree can look pretty slick when it’s dressed up with lights and decorations.

And while there may not be snow on the ground, the Emerald Coast is alive with holiday spirit and tradition.

It’s hard to even think about where to begin. How cool is it that you can strap on a pair of skates in The Village of Baytowne Wharf and hit the ice in Florida? Have you ever experienced a tree decorating contest? If not, you’re missing out. The annual Festival of Trees at Grand Boulevard is a sight to behold, as area nonprofit organizations decorate trees showcasing their specific missions — all while competing for cash prizes and bragging rights.

If performing arts is more your style, there’s plenty to enjoy, from the Emerald Coast Theatre Company’s “A Dicken’s Christmas: A Ghostly Story” and Sinfonia’s Swingin’ Holiday with The Manhattan Transfer to the Northwest Florida Symphony Orchestra’s Holiday Pops concert and WinterFest in downtown Pensacola.

There’s so much to see and do during the holiday season, so be sure you don’t miss out on what makes our communities great. As always, there’s an exhaustive list of area events available on our website at emeraldcoastmagazine.com.

I’ll look forward to seeing you out and about along the Emerald Coast as we plan to ring in the New Year together. Here’s to 2017 and our commitment to celebrating the community and everyone that makes it special. So whether you plan to take it easy or icy (for all of your Polar Bear Plunge fans), be safe, be kind and create lifelong memories and traditions.

Happy Holidays,

MATT ALGARIN malgarin@rowlandpublishing.com

MATT ALGARIN

RENEWING TRADITIONS AND CREATING NEW ONES

EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

December 2016–January 2017

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SPECIAL PROMOTION

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM EXTRA CONTENT ONLINE ONLY »

WIN BIG ONLINE

YEAR IN REVIEW How will you remember 2016?

We kicked off the year by introducing a beautiful redesign of the magazine and celebrating women in business. We took a look at gorgeous interior designs and swam with sea life. We said thank you to those who give our cities light and prepared for fall by celebrating the top businesses of the Emerald Coast. Catch all the best moments of the year online: emeraldcoastmagazine.com/ 2016-in-Review.

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Exclusive tickets and prize packages to the Emerald Coast’s best events are up for grabs! Visit Choirs and musicians unite their audiences in spirit of celebration

BETTER LIVES Charities turn gifts into results

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM and look for the Top of the EC logo for your chance to enter and win!

OUT OF WATER

What to do when sea life hits beach

TOUR DE FRANCE Countryside captivates bicyclists

UP IN SMOKE

Fine cigars always spark conversation

PLUS We get you

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Relive the best night of this fall!

Best of the Emerald Coast at Grand Boulevard was a blast, and we hope everyone who came out enjoyed the food, entertainment, services and shopping throughout the night. Read our recap blog and watch the video online at emeraldcoastmagazine.com/ Best-of-Emerald-Coast-Recap.

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Joyful Sounds

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December 2016–January 2017

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December 2016–January 2017 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

wave

CHARACTERS A Dose of Johnny C || CHAMPION Food For Thought || IT’S NOT ROCKET SURGERY Macho, Macho Man

THE

DEC 2016/JAN 2017

A CONSCIOUS, COOL COMPENDIUM OF COASTAL STUFF

PHILANTHROPY

SALVAGE SANTA Delighting children by giving bicycles new life →

by HANNAH BURKE

photography by MICHAEL BOOINI

EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

December 2016–January 2017

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THE

wave ← Mike Jones, in his Santa’s workshop, delights in bringing smiles to the faces of tots through a new set of wheels.



OTHER WAYS TO GIVE BACK United Way Coats for Kids: Find a local drop-off spot at united-way.org/coats-for-kids.

D

uring the holiday season, Panama City is the North Pole of the Emerald Coast as Mike Jones plays the part of both Santa and his elves, working to make old bicycles new for Bay County’s underprivileged children.

Known as Salvage Santa, Jones first got the idea to put his handyman talents to good use back in the mid ’80s, when he worked as a child abuse investigator with the Panama City Police Department.

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Emerald Coast Children’s Advocacy Center: Support victims of child abuse at eccac.org/donate.

Emerald Coast Toys for Tots: Donate toys for less fortunate children at facebook.com/ emeraldcoasttoysfortots.

Help animals have a great holiday, too: alaquaanimalrefuge.org paws-shelter.com ecwildliferefuge.com humanesociety.org

December 2016–January 2017 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

“I saw a lot of kids that didn’t have anything,” Jones says. “I was working for Sears Roebuck security part time and I’d see them crush toys in the back room all the time.

I said, ‘Well, I’m a pretty good fix-it guy, can I have some of those old toys and shine them up and give them to kids?’ They said to go for it.”

Now employed as the safety and security chief for Bay District Schools, Jones has spent the last 34 years tinkering with two-wheelers.

“It’s my hobby,” the 63-year-old says.

“Whenever I have free time, I go to the shop.”

Jones estimates that he will have refurbished 150-200 bicycles this year alone.

While Salvage Santa often spends his own money on parts, his efforts are also supported by donations from the community. It’s not uncommon for Mike to walk outside his door and find several bikes that have been dropped off outside his garage.

“People just come by and throw their stuff over the fence, and I gather it up and fix it,” he laughs. “I think the rewarding part of it is that there’s so many people into it. So many people are donating bicycles and toys — there’s a spirit of giving in Bay County. There’s such a feeling of camaraderie. There’s one fella who will order me two or three big bags of steel wool and just hang it on my fence.”

As the holiday season grows nearer, an influx of people shows up wanting to help out.

Members of the church Jones attends, along with close friends, help transport bicycles to the distribution site. Along with the sense of community he inspires, Jones feels that the fact that he is recycling discarded items and turning them into treasure makes his program unique.

Though he may be looking into retirement in a couple of years, Salvage Santa doesn’t plan on putting his tools away just yet.

“I think as long as I get out there and can physically do it and my eyesight doesn’t go away, then I’ll just keep on doing it,” Jones says.

To find out how to help support Salvage Santa, visit SalvageSanta.com. EC photography by MICHAEL BOOINI

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December 2016–January 2017

21

THE

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CHARACTERS

A Dose of

Johnny C He aims to be an info-tainment source for all MATT ALGARIN by

I

f you’ve been to any of a number of events along the Emerald Coast in the past few years, it’s almost a given you’ve heard his unmistakable voice radiate through the speakers.

There’s an exuberance in his delivery that comes from deep within his soul. If you are not familiar with the name John A. Alexander, that’s OK. More than likely, though, you are familiar with Johnny C, the one-man-band behind Dose of Johnny C and Jack of All Trades Productions.

Johnny C, who may come across as a outsized personality, is not an invention of Alexander, who grew up in DeFuniak Springs and graduated from Walton High School. He is the genuine article.

“I’m a character in myself,” Johnny C says while sitting on the outside patio at World of Beer, where he calls out trivia questions on a weekly basis.

“I’m a ham. But I’m just me.”

From hosting trivia and emceeing local events to officiating weddings and scripting videos and podcasts, Johnny C is doing what he always wanted to do. He comes from a caring, supportive family and is happily married to his wife, Kirsten, the woman of his dreams.

He’s a new homeowner, and his business, which he started in 2013, has survived and grown through its early years.

It’s taken a tireless work ethic and the desire to succeed for Johnny C to turn the corner.

While working for Golf Week TV, Johnny C found

himself on assignment in Albuquerque, New Mexico, where he was scheduled to cover the NCAA Women’s Golf Tournament. Traveling down Route 66, Johnny C received a call that would change his life. The company was downsizing and his services were no longer needed.

“The fact that I was on Route 66 at what was the beginning of the Great Recession was kind of ironic,” he says. “A few weeks later, I packed up my apartment in Orlando and came back to live with my folks.”

At the time, Johnny C was 24 years old and admitted that he’s not a “polo and khakis” kind of guy. He was ready to be out on his own and do what speaks to his essence.

From substitute teaching and working at MIX 103.1, Johnny soaked up valuable experience and built connections in the community. But he’s always been the artsy type.

“I basically love to put together various components and express myself creatively,” he says. “I can do that with a camera and a microphone.”

The goal for Johnny C is to become a sought-after “infotainment source.” He’s already earned the moniker, “Voice of the Emerald Coast.”

“I love to entertain and inform people about what’s happening in their community,” he says.

To learn more about Johnny C or to watch his Dose of Johnny C videos, visit doseofjohnnyc.com. EC

JOHNNY C GIVES BACK

Whether it’s Relay for Life, the Walk for Aproxia or the Community for Cops event, giving back to the community and raising awareness is something Johnny C always makes time for. Quoting John F. Kennedy, Johnny C said he abides by the saying, “Ask not what your country can do for you — ask what you can do for your country.” Johnny C attributes his desire to give back to his parents. He emcees charity events at no cost.

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December 2016–January 2017 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

photography by CHASE YAKABOSKI

©2016 Cox Communications, Inc. All rights reserved. Available in select Cox service areas. Actual speeds may vary. Other restrictions may apply.

See cox.com for more information.

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FOOD FOR THOUGHT CHAMPION

Charity fights childhood hunger

by LIS KING

W

hen someone asks Tiffanie Nelson about her work, she tells them she is responsible for 1,503 children. And she is. Not as a school principal or as head of some government agency, mind you. No, Nelson heads up Food For Thought Outreach, the much-admired organization she

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Susan Moody, founded to fight hunger in schools Carly Harmer and in Okaloosa and Walton counties, Tiffanie Nelson fill and it’s a job she loves. backpacks that will be sent home with “It all started in 2010,” she exchildren in need. Each plains. “I was searching for an oppack contains healthy portunity for our family to demonand non-perishable strate our faith and values beyond food options. our church. That year, enrolling my son in school, it struck me that the papers I was filling in were all about assessing the student’s need for assistance. I realized that many children in our area were in need and this was where we could make a difference.

“The next morning I called the school to determine their need,” she continues. “We had $300 to serve six children.

This quickly grew to 36 in just a few months, and that summer we filed our nonprofit status. Food For Thought Outreach was born.”

This ongoing series shines a spotlight on individuals making a difference. These social champions from all walks and stages of life are equally zealous about the community causes to which they have dedicated their lives. For more champions, go to emeraldcoastmagazine.com.

December 2016–January 2017 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

COURTESY FOOD FOR THOUGHT/JACQUELINE WARD IMAGES

THE

Year-round schedule The organization, headquartered in Santa Rosa Beach, provides food to bridge the gap on weekends. Every Friday, children take home backpacks containing easy-toprepare, healthy foods. On Monday, they return the backpacks to school and volunteers collect them from school personnel. Then Food For Thought repacks the bags for the following week. The organization stresses anonymity.

It never knows the names of the students it helps.

Special pickup and distribution options are provided during Thanksgiving and winter breaks as well as in the summer months.

“We operate year-round,” says Nelson. “That’s so important.

Many kids who get school lunches go hungry weekends and during vacations. Our children face circumstances like homelessness, lack of electricity, being alone for extended periods of time and caring for younger siblings. So the backpacks contain foods that are easy to open and prepare.”

A typical backpack includes a loaf of bread, fresh fruit, packaged vegetables and healthy snacks, as well as peanut butter and jelly, or canned soup, chicken or tuna. Nutritionists are consulted to make sure the backpacks provide a healthy, balanced diet.

Today, Food For Thought distributes over 54,000 backpacks in a school year and an additional 85,000 food items in more than 2,800 snacks bags. The organization also provides more than 9,000 meals during school breaks and 800 bags of food throughout the summer program. This adds up to more than a million food items a year. It reaches 20 schools, serving 1,400 students every week.

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Nelson ran the program in her spare time and on evenings and weekends until Food For Thought’s third year. Then she had to leave her 15-year career in retail leadership and became the organization’s executive director.

Today, Nelson still works frugally, with only two fulltime staffers, focusing instead on volunteers. “We have over 200 volunteers, who gave 520 hours last year,” she says. “But we always need more. There are always more kids needing support.”

The organization is privately funded through area businesses, families and foundations, including the Destin Charity Wine Auction Foundation and the Emeril Lagasse Foundation.

Food For Thought never stands still. It is now building its Full Circle Kitchen with funding from the Pierce family, Howard Hospitality and O.B. Laurent Construction.

There, students will be offered classes.

“We’ll use this kitchen for classes that will replace our food delivery system at the high schools,” Nelson says. “Rather than receive a backpack, high school students will cook a meal that they will take home. The skills they learn will help them land jobs; we want to break the cycle of poverty.” EC

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December 2016–January 2017

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THE

wave

IT’S NOT ROCKET SURGERY

Macho, Macho Man

I

heard the version of my name where the “Y” at the end of Gary lasts about five seconds. Unlike the three-second version, which means one of the kids did something wrong, or the two-second version, which means we need to talk, the five-second version means something cataclysmic has occurred and requires immediate attention.

We had just returned home from a weekend at the beach. I went into the great room. Berneice went into the bedroom. Big mistake. Berneice came face to face with the most unwelcome of visitors, a snake.

I reached the bedroom doorway and there I saw the beast. At first glance, he appeared to be about 10 feet long. As I caught my breath, I realized it was closer to 5 feet.

(Photos would confirm a length of about 18 inches, but that’s not the issue here).

The first thing I did was grab my big cooler and put it over the snake, trapping it until I could think this through.

I quickly weighed my options!

1. Sell the house.

2. Call for help.

3. Deal with the serpent myself.

Option 1 required moving my entertainment system so, it was dismissed; option 3 was never a realistic consideration, so option 2 it was.

I have always believed one of the top five reasons to have children is to help remove snakes from the house, and finally I was going to enjoy the payoff. We called our geographically closest boy, Dustin.

Unfortunately, he and his wife, Ashley, were driving back from Jacksonville and they were still 150 miles away. Later, he admitted

by GARY YORDON

even if he was on the couch it would not have mattered; he didn’t do snakes.

So I called my go-to guy and baseball teammate Chip Campbell, who lives just around the corner. After promising him beer and food, he agreed to come help. Twenty minutes later, he showed up at my front door in full catcher’s gear. Seriously. Mask, chest protector and shin guards. He even had an umpire’s whisk broom. I started to laugh, but then I got it and offered, “Good call, Chippy.”

Chip and I moved to the bedroom to survey the crisis. Immediately, we realized the opaque cooler meant we could not see what the snake was doing. Was he casually enjoying the darkness or testing the perimeters for a weakness? We quickly realized we needed visual confirmation.

A piece of glass covering our wall art seemed right. My plan was to carefully slide it under the cooler and get the snake to sit on top of the glass. Then we would flip the cooler over, dropping the snake to the bottom, and inspect the snake through the new glass top.

As I started to carefully slip the glass under the cooler, I asked Chip to get ready to help me flip it over. From behind the bathroom door, I heard Chip say, “I didn’t hear that?” OK, I’m utterly alone. My plan failed when I put too much pressure on the cooler, breaking the glass. Now I’ve got broken glass and a snake.

We needed another plan. We needed a see-through box. That way I could just lift the cooler up and Chip could replace it with the new box. We found a hard plastic hatbox and started planning the switch.

Logistics had to be carefully considered.

After applying a cold compress to Chip’s

forehead, we rehearsed the moves. I would pull off the cooler and Chip would replace it with the hatbox. Chip asked why I would be moving away from the snake and he would be moving toward it. I convinced him the snake was after me, not him, and that seemed to work. I could hear Berneice on a phone in another room, booking a hotel.

The moment had arrived. The moment our ancestors prepared us for when they were dragging their knuckles around a campfire.

All our instincts and senses would be in play.

I looked at Chip and he looked back through the wire mask — an unspoken man-to-man communication. It was go time.

What happened next was a blur of hands, feet, brooms and baseball gear. To this day I don’t remember exactly what occurred; I just know the snake was in the hatbox and Chip and I were still alive.

We let the fog clear and looked at each other with glazed eyes, and after a brief silence did what men do — jumped up, bumped chests and yelled, “YEAH BABY!” Killing the snake seemed unnecessarily cruel, so we carried the hatbox out far enough away from the house to assure the snake would not come back — just across the state line in Georgia.

As time passes, my chosen weapons, a hatbox and a broom, will give way to the more macho parts of the adventure. In a few years the snake will be back to the initial estimate of 10 feet, and I’ll be wearing the boots I made from the skin. I’m pretty sure Chip will back me up. EC

Gary Yordon is president of The Zachary Group in Tallahassee, hosts a political television show, “The Usual Suspects” and contributes columns to the Tallahassee Democrat newspaper. He may be reached at gary@zprgroup.com.

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December 2016–January 2017 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

COURTESY GARY YORDON (YORDON), ILLUSTRATION BY SAIGE ROBERTS AND ABEADEV / SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

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28 2016 EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM 28 February–March December 2016–January 2017 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

CITIZEN OF STYLE

Susan Panter

|| NIGHT LIFE

Girls’ Night Out

|| WHAT’S IN STORE Retail Roundup

panache DEC 2016/JAN 2017

ELEMENTS OF STYLE RANGING FROM THE SUBLIME TO THE MORE SUBLIME

↘ As companions to spirits and facilitators of conversation that often are present at the centers of celebrations, cigars prove most pleasurable when they have been treated well.

Humidors help ensure a smooth, evenburning smoke.

FOR HIM

FOR ALL WHO ADORE CIGARS

Humidors (of all sizes) spell the difference for cigar aficionados

by MATT ALGARIN

photography by KEVIN HUBBARD

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panache

↖

Shore Thing Cigars co-owner, Paul Copeland, was essential in developing the stylish, suave and strategically designed store intended to enhance the cigar selecting experience.

W

hen you walk into Shore Thing Cigars along Scenic Highway 30A, you are greeted by a bright, open space that’s accented with white leather furniture, wood finishes and impressive tile flooring.

“It’s a high-end wine and cigar bar,” co-owner Paul Copeland will tell you. “We designed the space to be clean, classy and chic. There is nothing in here that says ‘cigars’ — there are no cigar posters or any of that. We wanted photography about fishing, modern country music playing and things that say ‘lifestyle lounge.’ ” Shore Thing Cigars opened its doors at The Hub in July, and Copeland hasn’t looked back since. The former Tennessee resident is a self-described OCD perfectionist; so when it came to designing the space and crafting the perfect inventory, the process was very deliberate.

Not only did Copeland have to live up to his own high standards, he has to live up to those of his buddy and co-owner, Luke Bryan, who just so happens to be one of the hottest names in country music.

Copeland and Bryan came together through a passion for cigars, as Copeland helped the musician set up a humidor in his home.

“The thing that cigars do is they allow someone who is a tow truck driver, a ditch digger or a banker to sit down, light up a cigar and have a conversation,” Copeland says. “It doesn’t matter who you are.”

The humidor inside the 1,500-square-foot space is majestic and is entered through a 9-foot-tall solid mahogany door.

“When you open the door, it feels like a Mercedes,” Copeland says. »

CIGAR CARE 101

Looking for a great cigar in your travels from Pensacola to Panama City? Here are a few options to check out: CORDOVA CIGARS 6050 N. 9th Ave. Pensacola (850) 473-0080 cordovacigars.com HOT SPOT CIGARS & COFFEE 642 Beal Parkway NW Fort Walton Beach (850) 243-9040 hotspotcigar.com HARRY HEADY’S 180-1 Miracle Strip Parkway Fort Walton Beach (850) 461-9727 harryheadys.com HARBOR CIGARS 4424 Commons Drive E. #2c, Destin (850) 650-3111 harborcigars.com CIGAR FACTORY SOCIAL CLUB 12272 U.S. Highway 98 Miramar Beach (850) 650-2235 cigarfactorysocialclub.com SHORE THINGS CIGARS 37 Hub Lane WaterSound Beach (850) 502-4050 shorethingcigars.com PCB CIGARS 17329 Panama City Beach Parkway (850) 249-6282 pcbcigars.com FLORIDA CIGAR & TOBACCO 12029 Panama City Beach Parkway (850) 233-1833 floridacigarshop.com

When it comes to storing your cigars, the humidity inside your humidor should be between 65 and 72 percent, according to the team at Neptune Cigars (neptunecigar.com). Ideal conditions are 70 degrees and 70 percent humidity. Improper storage can lead to a variety of issues, such as uneven or too rapid burn, harsh or bitter taste, broken wrapper, difficulty lighting or keeping the cigar lighted, mold and tiny holes in your cigars, which is a sign of tobacco beetle infestation. Humidors come in a variety of shapes and sizes, depending on whether they are for commercial use or for personal storage at home or in an office. When visiting your local retailer or cigar bar, a walk-in humidor is the most common. This will typically be a large, room-sized area where an entire stock of cigars is stored. Cabinet-style humidors tend to resemble a piece of furniture and typically will hold 1,000-1,500 cigars. The personal humidor, which is generally found in the home or office, usually holds between 20-75 cigars, and a portable or travel humidor will hold 2-10 cigars.

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December 2016–January 2017 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

PHOTOS BY KEVIN HUBBARD (CIGARS) AND COURTESY PROFFITT PR / CHELSEA BLAICH (SHORE THING CIGARS)

CIGAR STOPS ALONG THE EMERALD COAST

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December 2016–January 2017

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Named “Best Waterfront Dining” by Travel + Leisure magazine, Vue on 30a is open to the public and showcases one of the best views for dining in all of South Walton. It is a great place for lunch, dinner, Sunday brunch or special occasions with family and friends. Ask us about planning your wedding or special event today.

RING IN THE NEW YEAR WITH US RSVP TODAY CONTACT US TO LEARN MORE. KRISTI RUSTIN Private Event Director kristi@santarosaclub.com | 850.267.2229 ext. 7 santarosaclub.com | vueon30a.com 4801 W Hwy 30A | Santa Rosa Beach, FL

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December 2016–January 2017 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

As for the humidor itself — it breaks tradition.

“There is no Spanish cedar, there are no wood walls, there are no wood ceilings or fluorescent lights or tons of cigars from different brands, countries or regions jammed in it,” Copeland says. “I wanted it to look like Nordstrom’s had just opened up a cigar shop.”

The humidor’s floors are Georgia pine, and it boasts custom-built white cabinetry, which was done to showcase the cigar boxes’ natural beauty and intricate details.

“It’s just the perfect canvas to pop,” Copeland says. “All of the lighting is LED, to help with the temperature controls.”

Given the fragile nature of cigars, the humidor at Shore Thing is set up on its own air conditioning system, which features its own purification system as well as a reverse osmosis machine that’s hooked up to a humidifier which evenly circulates air across the product. The humidor is stocked with a variety of hand-rolled cigars from the Dominican Republic and Honduras. They range in price from $7-$50.

Shore Thing Cigars also sells a variety of personal humidors, whether you are looking for something smaller to hold 10-15 cigars or a larger chest-like piece that can accommodate hundreds of cigars.

Cigars are delicate, so when it comes to caring for them, a humidor is essential.

Peter Shah, the owner of PCB Cigars in Panama City Beach, has been in the cigar business since 2001 and opened his current location eight years ago. He agrees that ideal conditions for a humidor are 70 degrees and 70 percent humidity, which are the exact conditions his store’s 800-square-foot walk-in humidor maintains through electronic controls.

“Without the humidor you cannot keep the cigar moist,” Shah says.

When a cigar loses moisture or is not stored properly, it can burn too quickly, have a harsh or bitter taste, crack and break or mold.

PCB Cigars carries between 2,000-3,000 cigars, mostly from Nicaragua, Honduras, Costa Rica and the Dominican Republic. As for storage options, PCB Cigars offers humidors from Diamond Crown, with prices ranging from $250 (for the Drake 40-count) to $550 (for the Drake 160-count).

It doesn’t matter whether you are a doctor or a trash collector, a cigar aficionado or an amateur; enjoying a cigar is about the experience and conversation.

“It’s a celebration,” Copeland says. “It’s about savoring memories and experiences.” EC

CIGARS ARE DELICATE, SO WHEN IT COMES TO CARING FOR THEM, A HUMIDOR IS ESSENTIAL.

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panache

➺Panter delights in patterns, prints and panache as she fits a form with her very own designs.

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December 2016–January 2017 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

INSPIRATION

“The street artists from an art district called Wynwood inspired my last collection. I love raw, unfiltered and edgy graffiti art.”

ANTIQUES

“I have old sewing machines in my studio.

They do not work and they just sit there, but I love them.”

GLOBAL FABRIC

“I trained with fashion designer Tricia Fix. She gave me fabric swatches from Thailand. I still have them and loads of others in a big bin in my studio. ”

COLOR SCHEME

“I love the colors red and black!

EQROY (WYNWOOD DISTRICT), IAKOV FILIMONOV (SEWING MACHINE), STOCKSNAPPER (BIBLE), WINDU (THREAD), NAZZU (CHAPSTICK) AND KOMKRIT PREECHACHANWATE (FABRIC SWATCHES) / SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

SURVIVAL NEEDS

“If I were stranded on a deserted island, I’d bring a needle and thread, Chapstick, a Panama hat and a Bible.”

CITIZEN OF STYLE

SUSAN PANTER DISHES ON DESIGNER DIGS

Her designs combine Miami and the Emerald Coast by ZANDRA WOLFGRAM

T

o say fashion stylist Susan Panter “wears her heart on her sleeve” is fitting. So do many American and Latin celebrity A-listers, such as actresses Alexandra Pomales, Isabella Castillo and Kimberly Dos Ramos, who grace red carpet events and make international TV appearances dressed in Panter’s original designs under the brand Evelli by Susan Panter.

Helping successful women evoke a sense of style is part of Panter’s underpinnings.

“I have always had an eye for fashion.

When I was younger, I made clothes for my dolls, and in high school I loved styling and remaking clothes into what I wanted them to look like,” the 35-year-old says.

A passion for fashion led this Tennessee girl to the Art Institute of Miami, where she earned a degree in fashion design and photography by JACQUELINE WARD IMAGES

honed her skills as a wardrobe and fashion stylist. Three years ago, she married Thomas Musco, a commercial fisherman based out of Niceville who operates all along the Gulf Coast. This jet-set Florida couple has two homes and commutes between Miami and the Emerald Coast.

In addition to red carpet events, Panter styles for TV shows, music videos, web series and photo shoots and also consults on personal “closet makeovers.”

The adage of the peddler with no shoes is definitely not the case with this ravenhaired style maven. Though her recent designs are admittedly “girly,” Panter describes her personal sense of style as “edgy, dark and urban, with a bit of grunge.” She dresses mainly in neutrals but loves mixing unexpected prints for her

celebrity clients. “I love a leopard with a floral or a chevron with stripes, which is a little risky,” she says.

What does someone who makes a living out of making over closets suggest you stock in yours? “For me, classic keepers are ‘boyfriend’ jeans, an oversized watch, a blazer and a simple white tee. These are all easy to style and re-use,” she says.

One of this designer’s current favorite trends is a flannel shirt worn tied at the waist or draped over the shoulders. “I am obsessed with layering,” she says. “The more the better, but mix it up. You don’t want to be too sweet or too edgy.”

As for shoes, this trendsetter is most likely to step out in black booties, Converse AllStars or a thigh-high boot … surely to kick some well-heeled fashion faux pas butt. EC

EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

December 2016–January 2017

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panache Pair one of these ideas with drinks (before or after), dinner (avant et après) or shopping (ditto), and you’ve got a readymade Girls’ Night Out. Just don’t forget the Uber — because you’re a grown girl, after all.

1

QUIET CONVERSATIONS

Coffee or an Italian soda and pretty desserts served just so? Find your favorite java joint and plan for a night of soul-inspiring girl talk.

2 MOVIE BUFFS Hit up a new blockbuster or go independent with a flick at a local theater.

You’ll certainly have something to discuss afterwards!

3

CONFIDENCE BUILDERS

Who do you trust more than your girlfriends? Take a walk on the wild side and try the zip line course at Baytowne Adventure Zone in Destin at Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort or Aerial Adventures in Panama City Beach.

Girls’ Nights Out Over coffee, over drinks, under the moon

by TISHA CREWS KELLER

Ask most any woman and she’ll tell you there’s nothing more satisfying — cathartic, even — than spending a few hours in the company of girlfriends. Our mothers had Bunco Night and Velveeta cheese dip, but these days, girls are having more fun.

From spa nights to ropes courses, Emerald Coast ladies are taking seriously the age-old need to relax and unwind among friends. Some consider “Girls’ Nights Out” a regular necessity, while others prefer to keep these female-only get-togethers for rare special occasions. No matter — there’s something for everyone, but the main component is conversation and lots of it.

Grab a girlfriend or two and try one of these recipes for fun!

5 GOURMET GIRLS Cook something up with a cooking class at So Gourmet in Pensacola, Kitchenique in Destin and Liza’s Kitchen in Panama City Beach.

Choose your own chef-led course and have fun while you cook, and then eat your creations!

6

7 ROLLER RITAS Dreamland Skate Center in Pensacola will take you back in time. Pull on a pair of skates and relive your glory days — ’80s hair and all.

8

STYLE

36

Saunter out in style. No matter the venue you’re headed to, you can’t go wrong with a bold pair of shoes or a statement necklace paired with a simple, but well-fitting dress or a trendy top and your favorite jeans.

December 2016–January 2017 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

PICTURE PERFECT

Local art studios offer sip-andpaint classes with easy-to-copy designs on canvas. Arrive with friends and leave with wall-ready artwork! Studio by the Sea in Miramar Beach, Painting with a Twist in Pensacola and Beach Art Group in Panama City Beach are popular area studios.

CLASSIC MANI-PEDI

There’s a reason those pedicure chairs are so relaxing. Take advantage of the opportunity for pampering and maximum girl vibe at your favorite nail salon. Most offer alcoholic beverages, too, or let you bring your own.

ZELJKODAN / SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

NIGHT LIFE

4 GOLD STANDARD Maybe they even coined the term, but the Melting Pot’s monthly Ladies’ Night Out is a tradition that deserves its famed reputation as “epic evening of fondue, gossip and more fondue.”

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& INTERIOR MARKET

The Best 25,000 square feet and 90 vetted dealers has made Smith’s the favorite with decorators, locals, and tourists for 23 years.

Voted Best on the Emerald Coast for 17 consecutive years!

Antiques Shop

12500 Emerald Coast Parkway • Hwy 98 • Miramar Beach • smithsantiquesmall.com • 850.654.1484 Mon–Sat 10-6 • Sun 11-5 | L o c a t e d b e t we e n S ilv e r S a n d s O u t le t s a n d D e s t in Co m m o n s EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

December 2016–January 2017

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 WHAT’S IN STORE? A roundup of retail happenings throughout the Emerald Coast

by ZANDRA WOLFGRAM

This spring GRAND BOULEVARD AT SANDESTIN will solidify its place as a retail destination for home furnishings with two words: Pottery Barn. Making its Northwest Florida debut, the national home design and furnishings retailer will span 12,000 square feet and will be located in a new building which neighbors the most recent addition to Grand Boulevard on the west side of the Town Center, across from the Boulevard 10 Cinema.

35 YEARS TODAY’S BOUTIQUE is marketing its 35th anniversary milestone with trunk shows, events and sip-and-shop special sales. Jim and Kim Dettle opened Today’s Boutique in 1981 and helped pioneer Destin’s unique fashion scene.

Today’s, a Best of the Emerald Coast winner for many years running, quickly evolved into an upscale, premier boutique with an eclectic mix of fashions for women.

VICTORIA’S SECRET, known for

its artfully showcased collection of lingerie, swimwear, sleepwear, shoes, perfume and beauty products, received a makeover and expanded by 50 percent. A store dedicated to PINK was also added.

THE MARKET SHOPS

WREN’S VILLAGE BOUTIQUE, also located at The Market Shops, will be the first in Florida to carry the Archer & Cove apparel line, which is based out of Mississippi. Founded in 2014 by Rosanne Hodges, this label features men’s and women’s T-shirts, tanks, hats, yoga/jogger pants, sweatshirts and decals. ← DARK GREY HEATHER WONDER TANK This super-soft Bella brand Archer & Cove tank has a flowy, relaxed fit. The hem is hip length to cover all your assets. The front of this awesome tank is forgiving, and the ruching on the back adds a sweet, feminine touch. The Archer & Cove mantra, “Wonder, Wander, Explore” In lemon yellow will make this your favorite tank.

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December 2016–January 2017 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

Now, you can definitely shop ’til you drop with ease.

SACRED HEART HEALTH SYSTEM’s newest outpatient

center is now open at The Market Shops in Miramar Beach. Walk-in services are available seven days a week.

Colby Anderson and Luke Andrews, who both grew up in DeFuniak Springs and now live in Santa Rosa Beach, have opened their first retail store in Destin Commons. HIGH COTTON CLOTHING CO. offers a variety of high quality classic clothing, shoes, jewelry and accessories made in the South for gentlemen and ladies. Their clothing brands, such as Coastal Cotton, Fish Hippie, Over Under, State Traditions and others, are all made in the U.S.A.

PHOTOS BY CAROLINE STUCKEY OF CAROLINE STUCKEY PHOTOGRAPHY (ARCHER & COVE APPAREL) AND COURTESY GRAND BOULEVARD (POTTERY BARN) AND DESTIN COMMONS (VICTORIA’S SECRET AND HIGH COTTON CLOTHING CO.)

panache

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December 2016–January 2017

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SPECIAL PROMOTION

Whether you want to deck yourself out for date night, thank a friend or find a unique gift for someone on your list, our handy Holiday Gift Guide will make your shopping spree along the Emerald Coast easier. With fabulous finds ranging from upscale designer duds to keepsake souvenirs, sensational seasonal shopping is simply in the bag! Now, that’s the spirit!

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SPECIAL PROMOTION

5

6

4

PHOTOS BY LAWRENCE DAVIDSON (2, 3 AND 6), CHASE YAKABOSKI (8) AND COURTESY OF VENDORS (1, 4, 5 AND 7)

7 1. AROMA SENSE LUXURY SHOWER HEAD BY AROMA SENSE/Serenity by the sea Spa at Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa An AromaSense luxury shower head utilizes natural aroma oils to enhance relaxation and alleviate stress.

Treat your loved ones to a luxury spa experience at home. $82 showerhead, $25 refills 4000 Sandestin Blvd. S., Miramar Beach, (850) 622–9595, serenitybytheseaspa.com 2. LUMIERE BIO-RESTORATIVE EYE CREAM NEOCUTIS/Coastal Skin Surgery and Dermatology The holidays can be non-stop. This line-soothing eye cream is a fabulous gift for a friend or for yourself. A powerful way to hydrate and reduce skin aging, puffiness and under eye darkness during the hustle and bustle of the season.

12469 Emerald Coast Parkway, Miramar Beach, (850) 654-3376, coastalskinsurgery.com 3. METALLIC BUTTON BRACELET/Coastal Road Each Metallic Button Bracelet is handmade in the Coastal Road studio in Santa Rosa Beach, Florida, using signature metallic leather cord and an Old World silver button closure. This simple striking style comes in seven metallic leather shades, shown here in champagne and silver.

PO Box 2076, Santa Rosa Beach, (407) 694-1338, coastalroad.net 4. SIRENS AT THE BEACH Lounge around while staying warm and cozy in this lush ladies robe

by Eberjey complete with pockets. Available in black or grey, in store and online. $180 9375 Emerald Coast Parkway, Suite 17, Miramar Beach,(850) 837-2441, store.sirensatthebeach.com 5. BAYTOWNE JEWELERS Make her holiday shine with rays of sterling silver and 10k yellow gold with the Beach Sun pendant. This custom-design piece made by Baytowne Jewelers is offered in two sizes. Add the matching earrings for the perfect holiday gift. In The Market Shops at 9375 Hwy. 98 W., Sandestin, (850) 837-4367, baytownejewelers.com 6. HATTIE MINI ESSENTIAL CLUTCH/ Coastal Road The “Hattie Mini Essential Clutch” is designed to fit the new “stadium dimensions” while keeping style in mind. This bag holds just the essentials, including most smartphones, and comes with both a removable cross-body chain as well as a detachable wrist strap so you can enjoy every event, festival and celebration hands-free! Shown here in charcoal, this style is available in eight signature leather designs. PO Box 2076, Santa Rosa Beach, (407) 694-1338, coastalroad.net 7. BAY BREEZE PATIO The Big Green Egg is the ultimate in outdoor cooking. It’s a grill, a smoker, oven and ... the best holiday gift you will ever give! Eggs available in six sizes from $402 to $1,206. Voted Best Outdoor Furniture Retailer. 32 Forest Shore Drive, Destin, (850) 269-4666, baybreezepatio.com 8. EISENBERG BROACH This piece of American costume jewelry exemplifies the opulence of the ’30s. Handset using the best brilliant red and clear Swarovski crystals. 12500 U.S. Highway 98 W., Destin, (850) 654-1484, smithsantiquesmall.com

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expression

DEC 2016/JAN 2017

CREATIVE WORKS LAND ON PAGES, CANVASES AND STAGES

ART

THE ART OF UNCORKING

The right bouquet, the right palette and, voilà, a masterpiece 

by LIESEL SCHMIDT

MUSIC photography by CHASE YAKABOSKI

Choral Groups

|| STAGE

Holiday Performances

|| BOOKS

Holiday Classics

EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

December 2016–January 2017

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expression

 UNCORK YOUR Creativity!

There are great wine and paint studios all over the Emerald Coast, from Pensacola to Panama City Beach and everywhere in between. Here’s just a sample of a few of the options near you!

PAINTING WITH A TWIST 255 Miracle Strip Parkway, Unit B-8 Fort Walton Beach (850) 344-1475 paintingwithatwist.com

↗ Looking for a date night that lets you get creative? Painting with a Twist in Fort Walton Beach offers a couple’s night, which allows you to paint with your partner.

N

ot everyone is born with a natural ability to paint, and picking up a paintbrush can seem as foreign as oh, say, playing the violin. But when you take out the intimidation factor by combining good friends with a splash of wine and then add a little lesson in art, creativity is unleashed and personal masterpieces happen.

Giving people space to relax, mingle with others and feed off the shared sense of excited nervousness that comes from learning something new has given rise to venues including Painting with a Twist. Here, painting classes become social events where wine isn’t just a color on the palette — it’s actually part of the lesson plan.

Wine has a way of loosening things up a bit, and who doesn’t love the chance to spend a night out with friends?

But there’s more to the equation than simply adding a splash of vino. The instructors, themselves, must possess a certain amount of flair and be able

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to decant energy complimentary to the occasion.

It takes a ready embrace of seeing art as a fun way to express creativity rather than a serious matter to be approached with the air of a strict technician, and the instructors at these wine-fueled paint-fests do just that.

“The talented artists who lead the lessons are entertaining and engaging, and they enjoy what they’re doing.

Really, that’s all part of the magic,” says Jenny Muller, the owner of the Pensacola location of Painting with a Twist, a company that now has more than 300 franchise locations throughout the country.

During each class session, the instructor at a wine-andpaint studio guides their hopeful students through simple techniques that will result in their very own unique creation. That’s a special thing in this age of digitized images that can be manipulated with the click of a mouse. It’s a tactile experience, a refreshingly

December 2016–January 2017 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

real way to reconnect with the present and look at things with a fresh perspective.

More than just a simple lesson in paint, students are offered something truly worthy of toasting: a work of art created by their very own hand — shaky or steady as it might be — and the perfect way to make a lasting memory. EC

PAINTING WITH A TWIST 4771 Bayou Blvd.

Pensacola (850) 471-1450 paintingwithatwist.com PAINTING WITH A TWIST 2503 Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.

Panama City (850) 640-3287 paintingwithatwist.com PINK PICASSO 19 S. Palafox St. Pensacola (850) 293-6407 pinkpicasso.net SPLASH PAINT PARTY STUDIO 226 Miracle Strip Parkway SE Fort Walton Beach (850) 533-3632 splashpaintpartystudio.com PAINT THE COAST Café Liquid 772 John Simms Parkway Niceville paintthecoast.com PAINT THE COAST The Pancakery 960 Scenic U.S. 98 Destin (850) 240-8698 paintthecoast.com

Instructor Pixie, of Painting with a Twist, leads the artists in mixing the perfect palette for their masterpieces. She also guides the group along the way.

STUDIO BY THE SEA Travels throughout the area (850) 598-6828 studiobytheseadestin.com THE EMERALD CORK Travels throughout the area theemeraldcork.com photography by CHASE YAKABOSKI

Fort Walton Beach (850) 863-8219 Monday - Friday 7 am - 7 pm Saturday - Sunday 8 am - 4 pm

BOD0020 Em Coast Half Page Ad.indd 1

Destin

(850) 269-6400 Monday - Friday 8 am - 5 pm

Navarre

(850) 396-0424 Monday - Friday 7 am - 7 pm Saturday 8 am - 4 pm

Niceville

(850) 897-4400 Monday - Friday 7 am - 7 pm Saturday 8 am - 4 pm

EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

10/11/16 1:33 PM

December 2016–January 2017

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expression 

COMMUNITY CHOIR CALENDAR

Save the Date!

Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation presents SOUNDS OF THE SEASON Dec. 2, 7 p.m.

Village Baptist Church, Destin (850) 650-2226

MUSIC

HARK!

Fort Walton Beach Community Chorus presents BELIEVE Friday, Dec. 9, 7 p.m.

Saturday, Dec. 10, 7 p.m.

Sunday, Dec. 11, 3 p.m.

Fort Walton Beach Municipal Auditorium (850) 650-5715

The Herald Choirs Sing … and Dance … and Play

by ZANDRA WOLFGRAM

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TIMOTHY SMITH

C

arols were first sung in Europe thousands of years ago at Winter Solstice celebrations as people danced around stone circles. These theatricals were apt since the word “carol” loosely translated to “a dance or a song of praise and joy.” Carols were written and sung during all four seasons, but only the tradition of singing them in winter at Christmastime has stood the test of time.

Marcia Hull, CEO of Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation (MKAF), which is producing its 21st annual “Sounds of the Season,” says music is enduring, because it is universal.

“A singer who performs from the concert stage, a recording studio on film or radio can represent one of the most human art forms,” says Hull. “Songwriting is poetry put to music — combine that with the best composers and the accomplished vocalist who can deliver music that celebrates life and you have an experience that comforts the heart and soul.”

Hull credits music ministers Matt Plunk, Kim Cannon, Michael Saunders and Jennifer Vest with shaping the creative program for Sounds of the Season, which features the Mattie Kelly Community Chorus, a choir

↗ Lori Jean Smith, a violinist from Orlando, delights and dazzles with her spirited holiday performances. She will accompany the Mattie Kelly Community Chorus at “Sounds of the Season.”

comprised of about 65 local and wintertime residents from various churches and the community. This year’s lineup includes a performance by special guest artist Lori Jean Smith, a violinist from Orlando. “‘Sounds of the Season’ has always been our gift back to the community,” says Hull. “It is rare to find communities that come together in one performance, and I applaud everyone who lends their talents to help make it happen.”

Most singers can only dream of performing live on stage at New York’s Carnegie Hall, but for 38 members of the Fort Walton Beach Community Chorus (FWBCC), that dream came true this past fall when they joined 10 other choirs from across the nation at the famed Hall to perform Handel’s “Messiah.”

After they relished their big moment in the spotlight in the

December 2016–January 2017 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

Big Apple, it was back to Tuesday night rehearsals to polish “Believe.” For three days in December, FWBCC will channel their adrenaline and talent into a glittering holiday concert, with selections that range from “Rise Up, Shepherd, and Follow” to “Shop ’Til You Drop,” complete with lights, sets and costumes.

“We are putting on more than a choir concert. It’s a show!” declares chorus director Katie McGuire Menges, who began leading the group as it marked its 40th season last December.

At 32, Menges, a music teacher at Plew Elementary School, is the youngest director in the history of the choir. “There are people who have been in the choir longer than I’ve been alive,” she laughs. “We all come together for the music and to create an experience and really put on a great holiday show.” EC

Northwest Florida Symphony Orchestra presents HOLIDAY POPS! Dec. 9, 7:30 p.m.

Mattie Kelly Fine Arts Center, Niceville ECUMENICAL CHOIR OF SOUTH WALTON Sunday, Dec. 11, 3 p.m. & 8 p.m.

Monday, Dec. 12, 7 p.m.

Christ the King Episcopal Church 480 N. County Road 393, Santa Rosa Beach (850) 267-3332 Opus One presents CANDLELIGHT CONCERT Dec. 19, 6:30 p.m.

First Assembly of God Church, Niceville (850) 833-4262 The Choral Society of Pensacola presents HANDEL’S MESSIAH Saturday, Dec. 3 7:30 p.m.

Saenger Theatre, Pensacola BROADWAY CHRISTMAS WONDERLAND Monday, Dec. 19 7:30 p.m.

The Bay Arts Alliance, Panama City Beach

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

STAGE

GET INTO THE SPIRIT Local performing arts companies stage beloved holiday classics

by ZANDRA WOLFGRAM

The spirit of the season is alive … on stage at a theater (or alternative space) near you.

Whether you favor Charles Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol,” jazzy tunes or a holiday classic mash-up of all of your favorite stories of the season, these offerings promise to spritz your holiday season with a fresh, new twist.

← A DICKENS CHRISTMAS

→ A Peter White Christmas 2016

If you dream of a jazzy “white” Christmas, your wish has been granted. “A Peter White Christmas 2016” is a fun-filled, one-night only concert evening that plays to packed arenas coast-to-coast year after year.

A talented threesome packs a (holiday) punch: Peter White is a fluent acoustic guitarist; Euge Groove is a sensation on the saxophone, and Rick Braun is a masterful trumpet/flugelhorn player. Together they have created a dazzling performance of holiday chestnuts.

“As a child, my father taught me to play Christmas music on my first instrument, the recorder, and my love for Christmas music has endured throughout the years,” says Peter White. “I hope this tour will be an opportunity for many Smooth Jazz fans to enjoy their favorite Christmas songs in a family setting. You know, I might even bring my recorder!”

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December 2016–January 2017 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

It’s one thing to settle in to watch your favorite holiday tale unfold before your eyes; it’s quite another to watch nearly every holiday tale ever told. For the seventh consecutive season, the tireless company at Seaside REP, led by executive director Brooke Stetler, will set out to do just that during the month of December in the 75-seat jewel-box theater that is nestled along the town square in scenic Seaside.

Don’t skip it, even if you’ve seen it. The script of “Every Christmas Story Ever Told …

And Then Some” is refreshed each year. This year, it is again stuffed with hilarious holidaythemed jokes, brisk-paced staging, dancing, singing (even rap!) and plenty of audience participation.

Spoiler alert: Dad just may be pulled up on stage to portray Cindy Lou-Who. “We wanted to create a show for all generations to come together, laugh, have a memorable holiday experience and create a space where the stress from the holidays season melts away so they can just have a great evening for the entire family,” Stetler says.



In this hour-long adaptation of Charles Dickens’ beloved holiday classic, “A Christmas Carol,” versatile actors portray multiple roles as they bring to life the tale of the miserly Ebenezer Scrooge and his transformational night spent with three ghosts.

This year, producing artistic director Nathanael Fisher says audiences can still expect creative costume changes and fast-paced action in intimate non-traditional performance spaces as well as a few festive additions to the cast: a fourth actor and a live violinist!

“This is the same story that ECTC audiences have come to love as a holiday tradition, but we are reframing it and adding even more, to give them a slightly different experience,” Fisher says.

Regardless of how this classic is adapted, Fisher hopes audiences will leave with something to think about.

“Ebenezer Scrooge will be chilled by the famous haunting apparitions, but our hope is that audiences will be warmed by his transformation into a man of redemption.”

EVERY CHRISTMAS STORY EVER TOLD …

AND THEN SOME

BOX OFFICE “A DICKENS CHRISTMAS” Dec. 9–24, Thursday, Friday and Saturday at 7:30 p.m. & Sundays at 2 p.m.

Grand Boulevard at Sandestin 560 Grand Blvd., Miramar Beach For a current performance schedule and to purchase tickets online, visit Emeraldcoasttheatre.org.

“EVERY CHRISTMAS STORY EVER TOLD” Dec. 1–3, 8–10, 15–18, 21–23, 26–29 at 7:30 p.m.

Dec. 4, 11, 17, 18, 22–24, 27 at 2 p.m.

Seaside REP 216 Quincy Circle, Seaside Lovetherep.com Visit the website for additional performances staged at venues along the Emerald Coast.

“A PETER WHITE CHRISTMAS 2016” Saturday, Dec. 10, 7:30 p.m.

Mattie Kelly Arts Center 100 College Blvd. E., Niceville MattieKellyArtsCenter.org

COURTESY SEASIDE REP (EVERY CHRISTMAS STORY EVER TOLD) AND EMERALD COAST THEATRE COMPANY/CHASE YAKABOSKI (A DICKENS CHRISTMAS) AND COURTESY MATTIE KELLY FINE & PERFORMING ARTS CENTER (A PETER WHITE CHRISTMAS 2016)

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ALL CHILDREN AND THEIR FAMILIES DESERVE TO ENJOY LIFE

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December 2016–January 2017

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

expression

CHARLES DICKEN’S CLASSIC, A CHRISTMAS CAROL

by Charles Dickens It’s one of my favorite childhood memories at Christmas because of its strong moral message — through the story of Ebenezer Scrooge and the Ghosts, it brings goodness and kindness to others.

— Marcia Hull, CEO of the Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation

BOOKS

Holiday Stories Deck your shelves with these favorites

by KIM HARRIS THACKER

No collection of yuletide literature could be deemed complete without the following A CHRISTMAS CAROL

by Charles Dickens

In this beloved holiday classic, the ghosts of a former business partner and of Christmases Past, Present and Yet to Come help an old miser learn how to “keep Christmas” throughout the year.

THE HOGFATHER

by Terry Pratchett

The Hogfather — Discworld’s equivalent to Santa Claus — has been pignapped! To keep humanity’s belief in him alive, Death and his granddaughter, Susan, must fill in for the Pig in the Red Suit until they can find him.

50

THE BURGLAR’S CHRISTMAS

by Willa Cather

William’s choices have led him far from the privileged life he once enjoyed, but he has never considered stealing — until one fateful Christmas Eve, when hunger makes him desperate.

Caught red-handed by his would-be victims, William’s life takes an unexpected turn in this classic short story.

THE MISTLETOE PROMISE

by Richard Paul Evans

(author of The Christmas Box)

Two lonely neighbors pretend to be a couple in order to get through the office parties

December 2016–January 2017 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

and other social events of the holiday season. Real romance begins to blossom, but secrets from the past threaten the new relationship.

MY TRUE LOVE GAVE TO ME: TWELVE HOLIDAY STORIES

edited by Stephanie Perkins Acclaimed young adult writers such as Holly Black, David Levithan and Gayle Forman share their recipes for holiday romance in these short stories of Christmas, Hannukah, Yule and New Year’s. Appropriate for mature readers.

THE CHRISTMAS MIRACLE OF JONATHAN TOOMEY

by Susan Wojciechowski, illustrated by P.J. Lynch

Thomas McDowell’s young widowed mother has commissioned a nativity scene from the local woodcarver, whom the village children call, “Mr. Gloomy.” Will the widow’s kindness and Thomas’ friendship be enough to help the woodcarver overcome his sorrow, the roots of which lie in tragedy?

ELF

by Art Ruiz, David Berenbaum My favorite Christmas story strays from the classics like “Miracle on 34th Street” and “A Christmas Story.” The Christmas story that really gets me in the spirit is “Elf,” the story of Buddy (Will Ferrell) who was accidentally transported to the North Pole as a toddler and raised to adulthood among Santa’s elves.

— Chelsea Atkinson Blaich, Marketing Manager, Proffitt PR

THE GIFT OF THE MAGI

by O. Henry This is not just a story about giving, it is a story about sacrificially giving. Giving to another at my own personal expense. I can always tell how deeply it affects Anna (my wife) when I sacrificially give to her.

— Nathanael Fisher, Producing Artistic Director, Emerald Coast Theatre Company

COURTESY CANDLEWICK PRESS, HARPER COLLINS, ST. MARTIN’S GRIFFIN, ZONDERVAN, SIMON AND SCHUSTER, APPLESAUCE PRESS, LYBRARY.COM AND AMAZON.COM AND ILLUSTRATION BY JOHN LEECH CC0 1.0 (MARLEY’S GHOST — A CHRISTMAS CAROL 1843)

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Managed by

gastro&gusto HOME COOKIN’

Pearls of the Bay

|| LIBATIONS

A Yuletide Nod to Ale

|| DINING GUIDE

See Page 125

DEC 2016/JAN 2017

DINING, IMBIBING AND LIVING LIFE TO THE FULLEST

↘

Union Public House co-owners Patrick Bolster and Chef Blake Rushing

DINING OUT

A MORE PERFECT UNION

Union Public House enhances traditional Southern fare

by LIESEL SCHMIDT

photography by DAVE BARFIELD

EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

December 2016–January 2017

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gastro & gusto

← Clockwise from left: The Union Public House features an eclectic atmosphere; co-owner Patrick Bolster stirs up a specialty cocktail, the Martinez; entrees include Southernfried quail with red quinoa, white sweet potato puree, candied pecans, kale and pickled beets.

I

54

opening and subsequent successes of a string of celebrated restaurants throughout North America. When he came back home to the South, he opened a new restaurant in Pensacola to critical acclaim, and his unmistakable talent was recognized with a James Beard nomination for Best New Restaurant in the country.

Since then, he went on to pursue other avenues that allowed him more creativity and a greater chance to stand on his own, establishing a catering company and making plans to open a restaurant that was unlike anything he’d done before.

With UPH, Chef Blake and Bolster envisioned food that would stand out from the rest.

They took their shared love of pub fare and Southern classics and united them in plates of pure culinary genius.

Topping the list of guest favorites are items including the Scotch Egg, which takes the traditional British dish and gives it a fine dash of Southern hospitality. A soft-boiled egg is encased with housemade

December 2016–January 2017 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

Andouille sausage and breaded in pork cracklin’ crumbs, then deep fried to a crisp, golden perfection that pairs perfectly with the creamy tang of freshly made avocado mayo.

UPH seems to thrive on the unexpected, as one might easily gather after one glance at the menu. Here, a corndog is given a new identity — not simply by prettifying plebian pork parts with luxurious accouterments; rather, by rethinking it altogether, using a house-stuffed frank made of freshly caught ground shrimp and grouper expertly blended with fresh herbs, lemon juice and cream. Of course, a corndog is not a corndog without its signature stick and pillowy

coat of cornbread, and in this respect, the Shrimp and Grouper Corndog follows the rules.

But rules are not a priority at UPH. Rather, that focus is given to purity of ingredients, depth of flavor and unrestrained creativity. Everything — from sauces to sausages — is made with great care and attention to detail, each component a player in creating a sense of union on the plate. It’s a quality reflective of the way that food truly inspires the chefs and the way that they find sustenance and fulfillment in nourishing the soul while feeding the body. There is no dividing line at the table — it’s a place where bread is broken and friendships are strengthened, where everything comes together and life tastes good. EC



f the impressive handlebar mustache gives any indication, the man behind the menu at the Union Public House is more than a little offbeat; he’s an appreciator of the unexpected, a lover of whimsy. It stands to reason, then, that the restaurant, itself, would be reflective of all that, serving up a wide array of dishes that offer far more than a whisper of Southern comfort — in fact, they practically let out a loud Rebel yell.

Rebellious as it may seem, UPH is all about being “Where it All Comes Together,” as their motto so boldly states.

“We wanted UPH to feel inviting to people from every walk of life and create an experience for them — one where great food, excellent cocktails and good times all unite,” explains founding partner and executive chef Blake Rushing, who opened the restaurant at the tail end of 2015 with friend and co-owner, Patrick Bolster.

UPH is far from Chef Blake’s first venture. In fact, he’s played a pivotal role in the

The Union Public House is located at 309 S. Reus St. in Pensacola.

Open Monday–Friday, 11 a.m.– 11 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m.– close. Closed Sunday. For more information, call (850) 607-6320 or visit unionfl.com.

photography by DAVE BARFIELD

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gastro & gusto

HOME COOKIN’

Pearls of the Bay

With cool weather comes the season for shucking

by TISHA CREWS KELLER

I

f you hear someone say the “R Rule” is done, know in your heart that they are wrong.

When it comes to eating oysters, the fall and winter months with an “r” in the name are the perfect time to eat oysters.

Plucked from Gulf waters during these cooler months, oysters are at their peak in taste — the perfect intersection of briny and sweet.

The Eastern oyster (Crassostrea virginica) reproduces naturally in Apalachicola Bay and is consistently ranked at the top of oyster aficionado lists worldwide.

These oysters are shielded from Gulf waves and currents by a chain of barrier islands, making the area one of the most productive, pristine estuaries in the United States.

In other areas of the world, farmed oysters are mechanically culled, but tradition holds sway in these parts. Apalachicola Bay oysters are still harvested the way they were over a century ago — with long-handled tongs wielded by men on small, flat-topped oyster boats. In fact, the upper northeast Gulf of

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Mexico is the last place in the U.S. where oysters are harvested from the wild.

When talking oyster, it’s polite to use the terms “briny,” (instead of “salty”), and “liquor” (instead of “juice”). In addition to linguistic aesthetic, it’s important to evaluate an oyster based on look and smell.

The harvested oyster is sold live or shucked (as meat), but in either case it should have a fresh, mildly sea breeze aroma. Acceptable shells have no cracks and close tightly when tapped. If not, the oyster is dead and is not worth the shucking effort.



There are two main ways to shuck an oyster (side-entry and hinge-entry), but both involve using a quality oyster knife with a blunt, rounded tip. Always wear thick garden-type gloves to protect your hands from cuts and abrasions caused by both from the knife and the oyster shell, itself.

Live oysters can be stored in the refrigerator (dry) at 41-degrees Fahrenheit in an open-lid container covered with a towel for up to seven days. They will continue to make liquid, which should be drained daily.

Shucked oysters may be safely stored on ice or in the coldest part of the refrigerator for up to five days.

Oysters are a low-calorie, low-cholesterol protein, an exceptional source of zinc and a prime source of Omega-3 fatty acids. They are delicious cooked — steamed, boiled, roasted, baked, grilled or fried — and when done, they are plump, opaque and have slightly curled edges.

Of course, many people prefer to eat oysters raw, on the half-shell or on a cracker.

This is the ultimate way to consume the oyster — preferably in one gulp with no chewing — to best taste the sweet meat and the briny liquor in fantastic combination.

However, raw oysters are not safe for everyone. The risk of illness via the naturally occurring marine bacteria, “vibro vulnificus,” is a real danger, although most healthy adults will have no problem. For those who are especially young or old, or who have compromised immune systems, the bacteria can produce a life-threatening infection.

Whether you try them cooked as an appetizer or main course (FreshFromFlorida.com has many great local recipes) or in the purist fashion on the half-shell with just a squeeze of lemon, the Eastern oyster from Apalachicola will have you hooked at the first whiff of that briny Gulf liquor. EC

Lemon Garlic Oysters (Courtesy FreshFromFlorida.com)

INGREDIENTS:

➸ 36 oysters in the shell ➸ 6 oz. butter, melted ➸ ¼ cup lemon juice ➸ 1 tsp salt ➸ 1 tbsp. chopped garlic

December 2016–January 2017 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

DIRECTIONS: Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Wash oysters thoroughly. Shuck and place oyster meat on the deep half of the shell; remove any stray shell particles. Arrange on baking sheet; cover and refrigerate. Combine next four ingredients in a sauce pan and simmer over low heat for 10 minutes; allow to cool. Top each oyster with ½ tsp of butter mixture and bake in oven for 10 minutes or until edges begin to curl.

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gastro & gusto LIBATIONS

A YULETIDE NOD TO ALE

When properly made and aged to perfection, eggnog takes on a flavor like no other

by TISHA CREWS KELLER

5PH / SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

U

sed to be, eggnog was only available during the Christmas rush and really from just two places: a sterile carton in the grocery’s dairy case or from your grandmother’s punchbowl that was likely to smell slightly of mothballs.

Much like fruitcake, eggnog is making a comeback via celebrity chefs and nostalgic interest in all things mid-century.

Culinary historians agree that the spiked, creamy beverage grew out of a medieval ale called “posset,” and eventually claimed the name, “nog” due to the wooden cup used to drink it.

George Washington was an avid fan of the drink, but his was made using the ancient Don’t nog it art of mellowing. Compared to the until you try it.

Concoct your sugar-hyped, grocery-store variety, own eggnog creation purists maintain that there is a draand serve up matic difference produced by giving the the holiday cheer. flavors time to meld.

This aging process allows the egg proteins, milk sugars and alcohol to slowly blend and brings about a delicious chemical marriage that results in something much greater than the sum of its parts. By simply storing your mixed recipe in the refrigerator for many weeks, you’ll have an eggnog much closer to what it should be.

If you’re worried about using raw eggs, the INGREDIENTS pasteurized variety is an option. However, ➺ 1 2 large eggs (pasteurized if experts say an alcohol concentration of at you need peace of mind) least 20 percent and storing the concoction at ➺ 1 pound sugar 40° F for at least a month should take care of ➺ 1 pint half-n-half any bacteria hanging around. ➺ 1 pint whole milk In this spirit, we wanted to give you a modern ➺ 1 pint heavy cream ➺ 1 cup Jamaican rum take on an age-old beverage, one that still re➺ 1 cup cognac spects the patience required for greatness. Take ➺ 1 cup bourbon the time to make a batch and then wait — days, ➺ 1 teaspoon freshly grated weeks, months, even up to a year — before samnutmeg (plus more for serving) teaspoon kosher salt pling eggnog like you’ve never known it. EC ➺¼

↗ Alton Brown’s Aged Eggnog

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December 2016–January 2017 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

DIRECTIONS

Separate the eggs and store the whites for another purpose. Beat the yolks with the sugar and nutmeg in a large mixing bowl until the mixture lightens in color and falls off the whisk in a solid “ribbon.” Combine dairy, booze and salt in a second bowl or pitcher and then slowly beat into the egg mixture. Move to a large glass jar (or a couple of smaller ones) and store in the fridge for a minimum of two weeks. A month would be better, and two, better still.

In fact, there’s nothing that says you couldn’t age it a year, but it’s hard to wait that long. (And yes, you can also drink it right away.) Serve in mugs or cups topped with a little extra nutmeg grated right on top.

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4655 Gulfstarr Drive 850-269-2920 BRUSTERS.COM

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→ Sip fine French wine at Breze Chateau and vineyard in Loire Valley, France. Fully experience the city of light and love at France’s most popular attraction, the Eiffel Tower.

SANCHAI KUMAR / SHUTTERSTOCK.COM (VINEYARD) AND SEAN HSU / SHUTTERSTOCK.COM (EIFFEL TOWER)

French Ex 60

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ploration CITYSCAPES AND COUNTRYSIDE HAVE MUCH TO OFFER

by MCKENZIE BURLEIGH LOHBECK

EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

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→ People from around the world come to marvel at the magnificent gardens at the Palace of Versailles.

The Fountain of Apollo is just beyond the Versailles gates gleaming in gold, representing the sun god Apollo and his mighty chariot. Rue Montorgueil, a street in the district of Montorgueil-Saint Denis-Les Halles, is laced with fine restaurants, quaint cafes, bakeries, cheese shops and flower shops. Enjoy a croissant and a cafe au lait while shopping. The iconic, glinting glass pyramid serves as the entrance into The Louvre, which is the world's largest art museum.

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night, trans-Atlantic and most sleepless flight, I remembered the advice that my husband, Steven, and I received for combatting jet lag: Power through the first day, don’t take a nap and go to bed early.

Following that prescription was easy enough. We were pumped about being in Europe — Paris, no less — for the first time.

We relied upon Uber throughout our stay in the city as a way of making up for lost time. (Our itinerary was set back two days when we discovered upon checking in at the Tallahassee airport that Steven’s passport was expired.) And, although a more expensive option than taking the Metro, Uber dodges language barriers.

We simply typed in the addresses of our destinations.

We had a list of must-see stops and a “B” list of lower priority sights that we intended to visit as time allowed, but first we dropped off our luggage at the flat we rented off Rue Delambre. Veteran travelers had told us that renting a flat versus a hotel room would enable us to enjoy a more genuine French experience.

Our place was located in the city just east of the Luxembourg Garden, tucked between a coffee-and-book store and a florist and featured a private patio. After a bite at a corner café, we hit the streets, headed to the Eiffel Tower.

I encourage anyone visiting Paris to walk as much as you can. The streets are lined with impressive architecture and there are flowers everywhere, including balconies with their hanging baskets of blooms, vegetables and ornamental plants.

The smell of the city is fresh and crisp. The lush grass in front of the Eiffel Tower invited us to relax and enjoy the view. This is a great place to unwind, people-watch and pick up some authentic French food from a food truck or stand.

A Big Red Bus tour of the city helped give us a feel for the lay of the land and provided us with historical facts and passing views of sites where we planned to spend more time later on. Plus, we tacked on a few sites that were not already on our lists.

Dinner was at Le Parc aux Cerfs, a restaurant that we stumbled upon during a walk. A traditional French venue, it has menus in both English and French and would prove to be our favorite.

WHAT TO PACK FOR PARIS Comfortable, stylish clothing that is ideal for walking around.

No jean shorts!

Rain jacket Scarves Hats Be prepared to wear layers.

(Temperatures vary greatly in the course of a day. A backpack large enough to accommodate your jacket is a good idea.)

Umbrella

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SANCHAI KUMAR / SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

A

AFTER AN OVER-

MCKENZIE AND STEVEN LOHBECK

French Exploration

 Tips and recommendations for eating in France:

DITTY ABOUT SUMMER / SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

KIEV.VICTOR / SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

S-F / SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

1. Learn enough French to read the menus. Frenchlanguage menus typically have more options and less costly options available.

EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

2. Relax and plan on spending two to three hours for dinner. Most small restaurants have one waiter or waitress serving the entire establishment.

They want you to take your time, and you will be forced to whether you like it or not.

3. Get out of your comfort zone. Most restaurants are small and they don’t waste any space. You will be sitting inches away from the next table.

4. Order things you wouldn’t normally order.

My husband and I went with the recommendations of our waiter or waitress and were disappointed only twice. Even at that, we experienced two dishes we never would have tried otherwise — and lived to tell the story.

5. Order all courses.

Portion sizes are small, making it possible to enjoy bread, appetizer, entrée, desert and wine and still feel satisfied and not too full. It is expected that you will opt for all courses, so don’t be disappointed if you order only an entrée and you think it’s too small.

6. Try local wines with each of your meals. Take advantage of experiencing wines that are unique and affordable. There were even times when wine was cheaper than water.

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French Exploration

→ To escape the larger, heavily tourist-occupied cities, pedal out into the French countryside for a glimpse into the past. Away from the hustle and bustle are medieval landmarks, such as MontreuilBellay, Saumur and Chinon.

Abbaye Royale de Fontevraud is an ancient monastic city primed for exploring and Chateau de Breze appears straight from fairytale book pages, moat and all.

For a peaceful walk tour, visit the gardens of Château de Rivau, and for meditative moments, visit the churches at Candes-Saint Martin.

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When you visit, bear in mind that most Parisian restaurants close from 2 p.m. until 7 p.m., so plan accordingly. Of course, you can always grab a baguette or crepe on the street.

After dinner, we paused at a watering hole, Le Blue Sky, located just a block from our flat. The place was occupied by two bartenders and a couple seated on stools at the bar.

Presently, a young man — a friend of the bartenders — arrived and the unmistakable voice of Johnny Cash was heard over the sound system.

We discovered that French people love American music and many have a command of U.S. history. We engaged in an impromptu trivia night, played for drinks, and, I’m ashamed to say, we lost out even though all the questions dealt with American subjects.

Joined by the couple we encountered at the bar — they were in their 60s and spoke little English and she had a crush on Steven, I swear — we all danced, laughed and enjoyed the music together. Our first night in Paris had been a spontaneous and memorable one.

Over subsequent days spent in the city, we visited Les Invalides, the Lourve, Versailles, Notre Dame, Sacre’ Coer, Luxembourg Garden, Catacombs, Arc de Tiomphe, Tuileries Garden and saved for last a show at Le Moulin Rouge.

See them all — and take advantage of guides and walking audio tours that impart in an enjoyable few hours information that would otherwise require days to assemble. These

December 2016–January 2017 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

tours fill up quickly at certain times of the year, making reservations a good idea.

After Paris, we traded the city for the countryside, having booked a bicycling holiday through a company called Cycle Breaks. We boarded a train that carried us from St. Pierre Des Cor to our starting point.

Our reservations included accommodations, food certificates redeemable at highly recommended restaurants, bikes, maps and directions. Each day we biked 20-plus miles to a new destination while Cycle Breaks saw to our luggage.

In booking the tour, we had options: number of days, preferred stops, level of difficulty and a selection of hotels with different star ratings.

DAY ONE: Arrive and Explore Saumur, where the tour was to begin, was home to a solitary 14th century castle with octagonal towers and mullioned windows. At the National Riding School, also in Saumur, some of the world’s most talented equestrians performed exquisite dressage displays. The local white wine was reminiscent of the sparkling products of France’s Champagne region. This was a great town in which to sip and relax.

DAY TWO: Red wines and Royal Abbeys We hopped on our bikes and headed to the Saumur Champigny vineyards and the magnificent Château de Brézé. At a distance the castle looked like just another huddle

MCKENZIE AND STEVEN LOHBECK

DAY THREE: From Plantagenets to Power Houses It was tempting to spend a day leisurely exploring the amazing monastic city of Fontevraud l’Abbaye, but we chose instead to ride to the waters of the River Thouet. We discovered the massive, fortified château town of Montreuil-Bellay. The castle combines solid medieval styling with Renaissance flair, including 650 meters of medieval walls with a drawbridge and 13 interlocking towers. Like its many highly decorated rooms and delightful gardens, it’s a truly impressive sight.

DAY FOUR: Legends and Legacies The beautiful Loire Valley landscapes led us toward the River Vienne where the royal fortress of Chinon promised another formidable medieval encounter. First though, we were charmed by the fairytale gardens and

legendary stables at the Château de Rivau. In Chinon, we made the most of our night by wandering through the tiny historic streets, stopping for a delicious glass of wine — from Chinon’s very own vineyards — on a café terrace.

DAY FIVE: Colleges and Caves Leaving the medieval splendor of Chinon, we pedaled back toward the Loire, itself. The magnificent collegiate churches at Candes-Saint-Martin on the way to Montsoreau, another lesser-known but still very impressive medieval town whose château-bastide almost has its toes in the waters of the Loire. From there, the route led us along the river to return to Saumur for our final overnight, passing troglodyte sites which are home to everything from the locals themselves to much-prized harvests of Saumur Champigny and even champignons!

DAY SIX: Back to Paris We spent the final day and night of our trip in Paris. After a week of biking, we craved luxury and indulgence. We spent the day walking down Avenue Champ des Elyseés, a street full of high-end stores. I picked up a purse and a bag from Luis Vuitton, we went to Musee dal L’Orangerie, ate dinner at a delicious Italian restaurant called La Bocca Della Verita and spent the night in a small boutique hotel.

One last enchanted evening before crossing the pond once more. EC

PARIS SAUMUR

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of Renaissance turrets, but inside there was about half of a mile of underground caves, which were home to everything from a bakery to wine bottles and even an icehouse. The cellars were captivating and so were the views from the vineyard slopes. Back in the saddle, a picturesque route led us on to Fontevraud L’Abbaye, one of the greatest monastic sites in Europe, where we spent our next two nights. This was our favorite destination of the tour. The 12th century Romanesque Abbey dominates the town — fascinating, vast and intact. It is the haunting resting place of members of the Plantagenet dynasty, including Richard the Lionhearted.

WHAT TO PACK FOR A CYCLING HOLIDAY Knock-around tennis shoes Windbreaker Rain jacket Riding gloves Cycle outfit for each day Helmet Snacks

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Green sea turtle, Sweet Pea, was found entangled and floating near Ono Island in Alabama.

Injuries are indicative of a boat strike. Fishing line was also prominent inside the animal and around its left front flipper and was carefully removed. The white you see is bees wax, which is used to help heal and protect the turtle’s exposed areas.

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PHOTO BY TODD DOUGLAS PHOTOGRAPHY

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A Helping Hand The best thing to do to help stranded sea life is call the professionals

by JASON DEHART

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Juvenile Loggerhead sea turtle, Log, arrived with a flipper missing. The cause is unknown.

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PHOTO BY TODD DOUGLAS PHOTOGRAPHY

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December 2016–January 2017 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

Adventure Park in Fort Walton Beach, said that when you call the hotline, an FWC representative will ask you specific questions to help the agency dispatch appropriate rescue crews to check the animal and make arrangements for its rescue.

“Stranded animals should never be moved back into deeper water as this could make the situation worse for the animal,” McDowell said. He cautioned that a successful rescue depends on not trying anything by yourself, unless given directions over the phone.

The Gulfarium rehabilitates animals through its nonprofit C.A.R.E Center. The program has helped rehabilitate and release species of sea turtles found along the Gulf Coast, including the loggerhead, → Juvenille green sea turtle, Loggerheard sea Kemp’s Ridley turtle, Teddy, and the hawksarrived as a small hatchling with its bill. Hundreds right front flipper of sea turtles almost completely have been nursed severed, requiring it to be amputated. back to health The cause is and returned to unknown, but the wild. it was found in a parking lot, “For beach suggesting a bird goers, the best had picked it up course of action and dropped it. is just to observe from a distance then provide any observations of interest to FWC or to the responding rescue crews,” McDowell said. “Many of these animals can be very dangerous to be around

TODD DOUGLAS PHOTOGRAPHY

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porpoise, manatee or a turtle has washed up on shore and can’t get back to where it belongs. The sight of an animal in distress tugs at the heartstrings, and your first instinct may be to try and help it.

But you might want to think twice before going it alone. Experts recommend that you first call the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission Wildlife Alert Hotline at 1-888-404-3922 (or *FWC from a mobile phone) and report the stranding to the professionals. They will guide your efforts until qualified experts can arrive on scene, and meanwhile, you can provide rescue operations with important information in real time. It’s much like calling 911 for a human emergency.

“In Florida, the coastline is covered by organizations designated to respond to strandings or sick animals, but we ask the public to be our eyes out there,” said Andy Garrett, an FWC marine mammal biologist at the Marine Mammal Pathobiology Laboratory in St. Petersburg. “There is so much water out there, and if people see distressed marine animals, they should call the Wildlife Alert Hotline.

Don’t put it off because it takes longer for us to get there.”

“Strandings” happen when a porpoise, whale, manatee or sea turtle gets sick or confused, and winds up beaching itself. A layperson typically responds by getting the animal back into the water. Unfortunately, there may be something seriously wrong that’s just not readily apparent. Pushing it back out may cause more problems for the animal — and for the people who have a better shot at helping it.

“If a dolphin is sick, it may re-strand in a place that’s not accessible to us. It’s pretty common for them to re-strand if pushed out,” Garrett said.

Allen McDowell, curator of fish and invertebrates at the Gulfarium Marine

“Stranded animals should never be moved back into deeper water as this could make the situation worse for the animal.”

— ALLEN MCDOWELL, CURATOR OF FISH AND INVERTEBRATES AT THE GULFARIUM MARINE ADVENTURE PARK IN FORT WALTON BEACH EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

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Manatee Rescue

When Hurricane Hermine hit Florida’s Gulf Coast in September of 2016, the heavy rains produced flooding, which cause several manatees to become displaced in a pond on Plantation golf course in Crystal River, Florida.

The manatee sightings were reported to FWC and experts were immediately deployed.

After performing a complete assessment of the manatees’ conditions, biologists determined that the sea cows were healthy, safe and had access to hydrilla, their prefered food.

They were then able to craft a relocation plan.

All seven of the manatees received an in-depth health assessment before being transported to a boat ramp in Kings Bay in Crystal River, where they were released back into their natural habitat.

The Manatee Rehabilitation Partnership is a cooperative group of nonprofit, private, state and federal entities that work together to monitor the health and survival of rehabilitated and released manatees.

December 2016–January 2017 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

Of Facts and Theories Garrett said that in Florida, the most commonly stranded mammals are manatees, followed by bottle-nosed dolphin.

“We get more manatees statewide than any other marine mammal,” he said.

Some marine species seem to be more prone to stranding themselves than others. Either way, there are different ideas on why it happens. It may be one — or a combination of — many factors, such as illness, disease, toxic food and even old age. The majority of sea turtle strandings are related to infections, fishing-related pressures and boat strikes. Disease is the No. 1 factor in marine mammal strandings, according to Gulfarium’s general manager Patrick Berry.

“Marine mammals are susceptible to infections and disease from all sorts of things: toxic prey items, pneumonia, toxoplasmosis and a myriad of bacteria,” he said. “Data suggests that a few of the animals are in latter stages of disease while others show symptoms related to older animals like dehydration, malnutrition and muscle damage.”

Sometimes individual animals mysteriously wash up, but when entire pods of animals show up, the occurrence is even more baffling.

“The common theory is these large social groups end up following their leader that’s sick and it brings the whole group into a bad situation. Or, maybe the whole group is ill and disoriented,” Garrett said.

Experts say that mass strandings have also been documented as a result of seismic or acoustic stress from either geologic or anthropogenic sources.

COURTESY FWC FISH AND WILDLIFE RESEARCH INSTITUTE/NOAA PERMIT 18786

PHOTOS COURTESY FWC FISH AND WILDLIFE RESEARCH INSTITUTE/KAREN PARKER/PERMIT MA770191

even though they are out of the water. Occasionally, FWC officials or the rescue crews will ask for assistance from people at the scene, but they will be very specific about what they need and how to do it safely.”

Garrett, the FWC’s manatee rescue coordinator, likewise warns bystanders that it might not be a good thing to jump in and mess around with a thousand-pound animal like a manatee.

“These animals can be dangerous. It can be a bad situation,” Garrett said. “Also, sometimes these animals carry diseases that can transfer to people.”

If you actually manage to roll a manatee back into the water, it could possibly drown if care is not taken. He said there was a case like this recently in Pinellas County, where bystanders rolled a stranded manatee into the water and it was found dead the next day, drowned.

“They are marine mammals, and if they are rolled the animal could aspirate water and have complications,” Garrett said.

Another scenario is finding a marine mammal like a manatee in the water exhibiting seemingly strange behavior. If you think it’s in distress, think again. You might just be interrupting a mating ritual.

From a broader perspective, Garrett said that manatees are a federally protected species, and it’s illegal for citizens to intervene and touch them.

“There have been cases where we have instructed people to assist the animal until we get there, but we want that under our direction. We’d rather have the experts on scene, but people do what they do and it’s all about education,” Garrett said.

↑ A closeup of a dolphin calf found entangled in marine debris. Debris and trash in waters are one of the main causes of injured marine life.

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A Brief Primer

The U.S. Marine Mammal Protection Act of 1972 — it was amended in 1994 — is administered by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. It protects all marine mammals, including whales, porpoises, seals, sea lions, manatees, sea otters and polar bears, within the waters of the United States. The National Marine Fisheries Service, which is a part of NOAA within the U.S. Department of Commerce, manages the MMPA. The Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission is part of NOAA’s Southeast Region Marine Mammal Stranding Network.

Locally, this network also includes the Central Panhandle Aquatic Preserve Office in Eastpoint, the Emerald Coast Wildlife Refuge, Inc., in Destin, Gulf Islands National Seashore in Gulf Breeze, Gulf World Marine Park in Panama City, Northwest Florida Aquatic Preserves Office (FDEP) in Milton and the National Marine Fisheries Service Southeast Fisheries Science Center Panama City Laboratory in Panama City.

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will cut the rope, but if the animal is still snagged or the rope is wrapped around a fin or flipper or tail, the rope could wind up amputating that vital appendage.”

In the case of sea turtles, you’ll find mostly individuals washed up.

But mass turtle strandings do occur occasionally and are related to environmental stressors, such as toxic algal blooms and cold-stunning events when water temperatures drop too low for short periods of time, McDowell said.

“It is always difficult to determine the exact cause of diseases in sea turtles, but they are typically related to ingestion of diseased or toxic food items or environmental stressors,” he said.

Toxic algal blooms are being studied carefully due to the complex variables that cause blooms as well as the significant effects they have on the marine food webs and habitats close to shore.

Garrett noted that red tide, for

↓ Allen McDowell, Curator of Fish and Invertebrates, takes a look at Kemp’s Ridley sea

turtle, Jupiter, who was caught by fishermen in Gulf Shores, Alabama. Jupiter arrived at Gulfarium’s C.A.R.E. center to have the hook surgically removed.

December 2016–January 2017 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

COURTESY GULFARIUM

Government Protection:

TODD DOUGLAS PHOTOGRAPHY

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According to Garrett, the man-made acoustic stress theory is somewhat controversial, because it suggests Navy underwater tests might be spooking or disorienting marine life. But he said he hasn’t heard any definite reason why mass strandings occur.

“There have been some theories that there is man-made noise, like sonar, that disrupts their descent and their dive pattern and makes them disoriented,” he said.

While such disruptions fall into the realm of theory, there are other manmade problems facing wildlife.

“Talking about manatees and dolphins, there are issues that will cause either one to strand, including human issues like entanglement in fishing gear and collisions,” Garrett said. “We have had animals entangled in fishing gear, both manatees and dolphins.

Also, they can get wrapped up in the rope that runs from a cage to a float, and will drag the cage around. People

← Gulfarium C.A.R.E. staff

member, Jenna Wanamaker, releasing rehabilitated green sea turtle, Brocc, at Henderson Beach State Park on July 21, 2016.

example, produces a toxin that can accumulate in dolphins and manatees that eat contaminated food, resulting in paralysis and drowning.

Rescue to Rehab Rehabilitation is absolutely critical as part of the rescue effort. Rarely will a stranded animal be returned immediately to the water, as they typically require some form of rehabilitation/ treatment before being released. If options are limited and the animal has to be returned to the water immediately, appropriate treatment will be given on-site. (continued on page 106)

“Almost all stranded animals require some form of rehabilitation or treatment, so every effort is made to get them into a rehabilitation facility as quickly as possible.”

— ALLEN MCDOWELL, CURATOR OF FISH AND INVERTEBRATES AT THE GULFARIUM MARINE ADVENTURE PARK IN FORT WALTON BEACH EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

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The spirit of giving enlivens the Emerald Coast as evidenced by the many individuals and businesses that contribute to the success of fundraising events including the Destin Charity Wine Auction Foundation.

PHOTO COURTESY DCWAF / STEVEN MANGUM

GAME CHA 74

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NGERS

Generosity transforms charities and the lives of those they serve

by ZANDRA WOLFGRAM

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W

GAME CHANGERS

What would you do if you hit the jackpot? Many of us can only dream of holding a winning lottery ticket. But thanks to Destin Charity Wine Auction Foundation (DCWAF) and IMPACT 100 Northwest Florida, Inc., two 501(c) (3) nonprofit organizations dedicated to serving the Emerald Coast, 22 local charities are indeed winners. Meaning, they collectively have received more than $14 million since 2005.

In 2016, 90 percent of the charity finalists received six-figure checks.

For this story, we took a look at the impact of major cash gifts on our community. After meeting with several local charities on both the giving and receiving ends, common threads emerged — the vetting processes are stringent, the selected charities all are deserving, the funds are being put to good use and, not surprisingly, the influx of big dollars has indelibly transformed these charities and the lives of those they serve in meaningful ways. Aside from funding, a rewarding side benefit has been the formation of mutually beneficial partnerships among many of the finalist charities. In short, DCWAF and IMPACT 100 are “charity game-changers.”

There are many more stories of deserving charities and causes than we possibly have space to share on our pages, here, and we will share some of those stories in coming editions. But, for now, we take a closer look at one particular teen to find out what happens after you earn a “golden ticket.” Here is his story:

COURTESY AMIKIDS

Bryan Deans is often seen wheeling around Fort Walton Beach on his bright green bicycle generously given to him by a member of IMPACT 100. It’s his sole means of transportation around town and to his job.

You may have seen him pedaling rain or shine on a bright lime-green bicycle to his summer job at a restaurant on Okaloosa Island in Fort Walton Beach. At a glance, he may appear to be just any ordinary teen whizzing by. But if you ask this particular 17-year-old, he will gladly tell you he is on his way to fulfilling his dreams.

Unlike many teens, for Bryan Deans, landing and keeping a job isn’t for pocket money. It is a matter of surviving in the world. A job means an eviction notice won’t be posted on his family’s apartment door. A job means there will be food on the table this week. A job means he finally has a grasp on the keys to freedom. It means he has the means to begin to unlock his potential.

And moving forward is important for someone who was once stuck.

Deans was making poor choices that got him in trouble. He was court ordered to AMIkids Emerald Coast, a day treatment facility located in a twostory house on a tree-lined street in Fort Walton Beach. For many “at-risk” youth, it’s considered “the last stop.”

For Deans, it was a “blessing,” because the 12-member staff at AMIkids did one thing no one else had done. They believed in him. They surrounded him with support, gave him structure, enrolled him in educational programs and today, he finally sees what they saw from the start — his potential for a bright future.

Not only did Deans earn a G.E.D. and land his first job, but his shiny new wheels are also thanks to an IMPACT 100 member who donated the bicycle to AMIkids. That donation

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AMIkids Emerald Coast — Bryan’s Story

became Deans’ sole transportation for his 40-minute commute to work.

Deans’ life has been transformed in a matter of months, and he is grateful.

“I didn’t expect everyone at AMIkids to be so nice and caring and just all-out amazing.

They were that turning point, and I needed that, and it was just the biggest help that I could’ve ever asked for,” Deans says. “I just want to say thank you to them and keep doing what you’re doing because you’re going to help a lot of kids get to where they need to go.”

Deans’ story is one of many. About 30 kids in similar situations are currently enrolled in AMIkids Emerald Coast. The facility has a capacity for about 45 students.

After getting hands-on experience in a factpaced restaurant kitchen, Deans aspires to enlist in the U.S. Air Force when he turns 18 to further his education and expand his world of opportunities. Maybe even set his sights on running the show in a kitchen.

AMIkids Emerald Coast THE CONCERN: Juvenile crime in the United States has reached epidemic proportions. Nearly three million crimes are committed each year by kids under the age of 18, and when a teenager is jailed just once, their odds of reoffending are 75 percent.

THE CHARITY ON THE CASE: Since 1998, AMIkids Emerald Coast has been dedicated to helping kids discover their potential, transform their lives and strengthen communities. By empowering kids through care and guidance, AMIkids helps its students reach their potential and, as a result, break the cycle of failure and poverty.

Audra Ray is the Executive Director of AMIkids, which offers programs to assist children in the classroom and in the community.

“My whole life I wanted to be a chef. I like the lively environment, the fun vibe. You are never hungry, and I like food,” he says with a chuckle.

Audra Ray is a seasoned professional with more than 20 years helping kids fulfill their personal potential. AMIkids has locations across the country, positioned in potential need areas, and before joining the Emerald Coast location as executive director in March 2015, Ray was with the company in Louisiana for eight years.

“My passion is helping kids, and AMIkids is one of the best at doing just that,” says Ray. “It is an honor to have the opportunity to lead AMIkids Emerald Coast and to help our kids overcome their issues and positively impact our community.”

In 2015, Impact 100 donated $107,667 to AMIkids, and DCWAF gifted $125,000 (an increase of $50,000 from the previous year).

Ray says the donations have enabled her organization to staff, equip and launch two certification programs (Serve Safe — a food safety program — and an IT skill-based program.)

“We can offer something we’ve never been able to offer before,” says Ray. “Our kids are so excited knowing when they apply for jobs, they’ll have an edge when they get out there.”

Education cannot be overvalued. For Ray, it is a critical piece in breaking the cycle that at-risk kids are caught in. “Our sole job is to focus on

helping kids make better choices in the classroom, the community and in life,” she says.

Normally, no one likes to be a statistic, but in this case, Deans is hoping he is counted among the 78 percent of AMIkids nationwide who successfully complete the program and do not reoffend.

“What they taught me the most is that discipline is good. It’s everything actually.

It’s not just for at school, at work or with your parents, it’s everywhere in the world.

You just gotta have a little a bit of respect and you gotta be a good person,” he says.

Deans may not have had a picture-perfect beginning during his adolescence, but he clearly can envision his future as he approaches adulthood. “If I paint a picture of my life, I see something beautiful, bright and sunny,” he says. “Sure, there may be some darkness at first, but as it goes to the right, it goes to light. I see myself with others together walking side by side to the light.” EC EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

LOCAL RESULTS: » 80 to 120 kids served each year » +1 grade level — AMI kids gain an average of one full grade level » 100 percent of kids who complete the program return to school, complete a G.E.D. or enter the workforce PARTNERSHIP POWER DCWAF and IMPACT 100 are often the bridge between charities. Food For Thought Outreach, which also receives funds from DCWAF, has supported AMIkids students by providing backpacks of food during holiday breaks for kids who would otherwise go without.

HOW YOU CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE: AMIkids is looking for volunteers, mentors, board members and a new 10,000-square-foot facility, preferably in Fort Walton Beach. If you are interested in helping, call (850) 244-2711.

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GAME CHANGERS

This chapter of Impact 100 was formed by five local women in 2012 with a simple idea: 100 women give $1,000 each to create a $100,000 grant to meet a community need. In just four years, the organization has given $921,000 to local nonprofits in Okaloosa and Walton counties.

Today, there are 369 members who are poised to give $369,000 in 2016, which will push the organization past the milliondollar mark for year-to-date giving.

Since its inception, Impact 100 has funded a new building for family visitation for Safe Connections in Crestview; new trucks and freezers for Destin Harvest in Fort Walton Beach; veterinary medical equipment for Emerald Coast Wildlife Refuge; a pool for ARC of the Emerald Coast; a new building for Shelter House; a facility for Matrix Community Outreach Center in DeFuniak Springs; a new therapy barn for Grace Rides; and a vocational training project for AMIkids Emerald Coast.

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COURTESY IMPACT 100

Impact 100 of Northwest Florida, Inc.

ON A MISSION The mission is to provide financial support to nonprofit organizations in Northwest Florida by empowering women as philanthropists, bridging the geographic areas of our region and leveraging the talents of women to be a positive force for good in our communities.

DO YOU QUALIFY? Eligible recipients for IMPACT 100 funds must: » Be recognized as tax-exempt under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. » Be based in the counties served by IMPACT 100 or be the recognized local chapter of a national charity. » Submit a proposal for a project or program serving the residents of these counties. (May be a new program, an expansion of an existing program or a collaboration of several agencies) » Complete your project and spend funds within 24 months of the award date.

“Our organization is celebrating its fifth year of operation, and we will surpass the $1 million mark in total funding to 11 deserving charities.

That feels amazing.”

– Christine Carter, president of IMPACT 100

Save the date!

The generous women of Impact 100 present checks to their chosen local charities. Each of these women have donated $1,000 of their own money to charitable organizations.

A PROCESS IN PLACE July Grant applications are due in the categories of Arts and Culture, Education, Environment, Family and Health & Recreation August Applications reviewed, site visits conducted October Committees choose finalists and winners announced at annual meeting

HISTORY OF GIVING 2012 – Safe Connections (formerly Judge Ben Gordon Family Visitation Center), $128,000 2013 – Emerald Coast Wildlife Refuge, $110,000; Destin Harvest, $110,000 2014 – Shelter House, $125,000; Horizons of Okaloosa County, $125,000 2015 – A MIkids Emerald Coast, $107,667; ARC of the Emerald Coast, $107,667; Matrix Community Outreach Center, $107,667 2016 – Okaloosa County Public Schools Foundation, $123,000; Walton County Habitat for Humanity, $123,000; COPE Center, $123,000

IMPACT 100 uses 100 percent of its membership dollars to fund grants and depends upon Friends of Impact and its Member Plus program (members provide professional services such as accounting, legal counsel, printing, etc.) to help offset administrative costs. To learn more about membership and partnership, visit impactnwf.org.

EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

Get involved by participating in these upcoming events.

IMPACT 100 MEMBERSHIP EVENTS January 19, 5:30 p.m., Cuvee, Miramar Beach 28, 3 p.m., Twisted Grape, Shalimar 31, 5 p.m., Painting with a Twist, Fort Walton Beach February 19, 2 p.m., Solaris Yacht, Miramar Beach 23, 5:30 p.m., Shelter House, Fort Walton Beach March 6, 5:30 p.m., Wild Olive, Crestview 14, 5:30 p.m., The Boathouse, Niceville 21, 5:30 p.m., The Matrix, DeFuniak Springs 26, 3 p.m., Dragonfly Yoga, Fort Walton Beach April 6, 5:30 p.m., Acme Ice House, Panama City Beach 18, 5:30 p.m., Ruth’s Chris Steak House, Destin

December 2016–January 2017

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GAME CHANGERS

Destin Charity Wine Auction Foundation’s mission is to encourage wine enthusiasts to raise money to benefit children in need in Northwest Florida.

Founded in 2005, Destin Charity Wine Auction Foundation — recognized as one of the nation’s Top 10 Charity Wine Auctions by “Wine Spectator” magazine for the last four years — has donated more than $13 million to Northwest Florida charities by hosting wine and culinary events. These funds have improved the lives of more than 75,000 youth, including those afflicted by health issues and abuse.

In August 2015, Destin Charity Wine Auction Foundation donated a record $2.66 million to 14 local charities serving children in need in Northwest Florida.

In addition to charities in this story, the following also are 2016 recipients of the Destin Charity Wine Auction Foundation: Cheers to charity! The Destin Charity Wine Auction Foundation raises a glass to raise money to benefit 14 local charities in Northwest Florida

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COURTESY DCWAF / STEVEN MANGUM

Destin Charity Wine Auction Foundation

DO YOU QUALIFY? Eligible recipients must be a 501(c)(3) and serve local children in need.

TIMELINE May Applications accepted and reviewed; selected applicants are contacted and invited to continue through the process, which reviews the charity’s application, mission, staffing and financials.

August Process closed. Checks presented along with stipulations for use of funds presented at the end of the month.

TRY, TRY AGAIN If your non-profit was not selected, try again. Each year every charity is required to reapply.

LEND A HELPING HAND Contact DCWAF at info@dcwaf.org or call (850) 650-3732 to learn more about how you can volunteer, host an event, donate an auction lot or make a cash donation.

“Destin Charity Wine Auction Foundation matters because we are a part of the good in our community.

We are one of the leaders in giving, in sharing, in providing a light rather than cursing the darkness.

We are an organization that is not afraid to ask the allimportant question: What can we do to help?

And then we follow through where the support is most needed.”

–John Russell, president, DCWAF

Save the date!

Get involved by participating in these upcoming events.

DCWAF FUNDRAISERS January 27, 6 p.m., Tasting of Champions, Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa

COURTESY DCWA / STEVEN MANGUM

April 28, South Walton Wine & Food Festival Patron Dinners, 6 p.m., Various Locations April 29, South Walton Wine & Food Festival Reserve Tasting, 1 p.m., and Live Auction, 3 p.m., Grand Boulevard at Sandestin

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GAME CHANGERS

Over the past four years, the Destin Charity Wine Auction Foundation has hosted culinary and wine events that have raised over $13 million and aided more than 75,000 Northwest Florida youth. The foundation's events include food festivals, wine festivals and charitable tastings.

DESTIN CHARITY WINE AUCTION: ASSISTING THOUSANDS ▪ AMIkids Emerald Coast received $125,000 to fund one mental health counseling academic interventionist for high-risk youth. Funding will also allow the purchase of a new, safe bus for students to be transported to and from school.

▪ Boys & Girls Clubs of the Emerald Coast received $200,000 to allow double the amount of students from last year (200 children across four counties) to attend programs for one full year.

▪ Children in Crisis received $225,000 to fund the facilitation of housing for abused, neglected and abandoned children. The Opportunity Home, Sue Sue’s Cottage, YaYa’s Home and the Travis Tringas Home provide stability, shelter, house-parents, food, clothing and necessary items to help children live a healthy lifestyle.

▪ Children’s Volunteer Health Network (CVHN) received $200,000 to fund and serve underinsured and uninsured children in need of dental care. These funds will allow for two hygienists on the Mobile Dental Clinic and one full-time dentist and support staff at the CVHN Dental Clinic to assist with children in need of dental and medical care.

The funds will also provide new dental supplies and will cover the maintenance and repairs of their equipment.

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▪ Emerald Coast Autism Center received $200,000 to fund scholarships and their capital campaign, a new facility to serve children on the autism spectrum.

The new NWFSC Campus Facility will allow Emerald Coast Autism Center to increase their capacity levels, serving up to 130 students.

▪ Emerald Coast Children’s Advocacy Center received $300,000 to aid in construction costs for the new Walton County facility, a childfriendly atmosphere which will provide counseling, family services and the facilitation of investigations of child abuse and neglect.

▪ Food For Thought Outreach received $175,000 to provide nutritious meals for school-aged children on weekends, holidays and summer break.

▪ Habitat for Humanity of Walton County received $180,000 to fully fund the building of two new homes for families with children in Walton County.

▪ Pathways for Change received $200,000 for comprehensive addiction treatment programs, including men’s residential treatment and operations for the family center.

▪ Sacred Heart Hospital on the Emerald Coast received $225,000 to fund the expansion of the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, which will provide a larger nursery to accommodate a 10-bed Level II Neonatal Intensive Care Unit in the future.

▪ Shelter House of Northwest Florida received $155,000 to fund support groups, counseling and advocacy for youth ages 6 months to 17 years, who have been affected by domestic violence.

▪ The Arc of the Emerald Coast received $200,000 to support its Early Intervention and Family Education Program at the Early Intervention Center for children living with disabilities.

▪ Homelessness & Housing Alliance received $20,000 for long-term solutions to homelessness.

▪ Youth Village received $125,000 to fund its capital campaign purchase of land and facility construction. The money will also be used to support afterschool programming for more than 40 lowincome children along the Emerald Coast.

▪ Opportunity Place received $75,000 for immediate housing for homeless children and their families.

▪ DCWAF Children’s Fund received $55,000 that will serve as a contingency fund for charity partners and children in need. EC

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Stories from the

Heart I NSPI R ING STOR IES OF PEOPL E H EL PING PEOPL E 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.”

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DECEMBER 2016

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Veteran Danny Kennedy, left, enjoys fishing with his father, Stan Kennedy, near their home in Pace. Danny received life-saving treatment at Sacred Heart Hospital through the Veteran’s Choice Program.

CARING FOR OUR NATION’S VETERANS H eart disease has brought Danny Kennedy much suffering in his 55 years of living. His older brother, his twin brother and his mother all died of heartrelated conditions.

Like them, Danny also struggles with heart problems. He has been on a heart transplant list and has undergone a triple coronary bypass. A catheter ablation procedure successfully reset his irregular heartbeat, and 11 stents help keep blood flowing through his arteries. For Danny, Sudden Cardiac Death Syndrome is a possibility that leads him to live life to the fullest — when he is able.

Danny is a veteran of the U.S. Army. He was stationed in Germany from 1979 to 1983, where he served as a vehicle mechanic and tow-truck driver, transporting missiles by vehicle.

Several years ago, while in San Francisco, Danny had excellent experiences with medical care provided by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). His cardiology specialist, who earlier in his career had helped develop a technique called contrast

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echocardiogram imaging, was able to locate the area of Danny’s heart that was misfiring and restore normal heart rhythm.

After the recent death of his second mother, Danny and his wife, along with his 82-year-old father, decided they needed to make a fresh start. They chose Northwest Florida for their new home because it offers better fishing.

“The doctor said I had to retire and sell my Harley,” Danny said. “He told me I should buy a boat and go fishing. That’s just what we did.”

Early this year Danny had another coronary blockage. He needed to see an expert interventional cardiologist, and he had no time to waste.

The closest qualified VA cardiologist was at Keesler Air Force Base, beyond Biloxi, Mississippi — a two-hour drive from Danny’s home in Pace, Florida. He waited six weeks just to get a call from the office to set up an appointment, and the wait to see the doctor would have been two months more.

During the wait, Danny learned about the Veterans Choice

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Program, which gives veterans the opportunity to receive healthcare outside the VA network if they face wait times in excess of 30 days or have to travel farther than 40 miles from their home. Sacred Heart Health System and its parent organization, Ascension, are participating providers in Veterans Choice and working to ensure timely access to high-quality care for veterans.

Danny applied for the program and completed the process to get approval to see one of Sacred Heart’s cardiology experts with the support of Ashlie Fitzsimmons, manager of Military Navigation Services at Sacred Heart.

Danny researched Sacred Heart physicians, and once approved, got an appointment right away with Dr. Mark Grise, an interventional cardiologist with Sacred Heart Medical Group.

“My procedure was scheduled quickly,” Danny said. “He performed a heart catheterization through my wrist to open the blockage in my artery. He has me on some meds for ongoing treatment.”

Danny said his experience with Dr. Grise and his staff, as well as his stay at Sacred Heart Hospital Pensacola, could not have been better. He encourages all his military friends

Did you know?

Convenient, purple parking spaces have been designated just for veterans’ use at our Sacred Heart Health System hospitals. At Sacred Heart Hospital Pensacola, spaces are available in three locations — on the ground floor of the Ninth Avenue Parking Garage, in front on the hospital’s Ninth Avenue entrance and in front of Bayou Tower. At Sacred Heart Hospital on the Emerald Coast in Miramar Beach, the spaces can be found in front of the hospital near Chaplain Parking. At Sacred Heart Hospital on the Gulf in Port St. Joe, two purple spots are available on the east side of the main parking lot.

Thank you to all of our veterans for your sacrifice and service to our nation.

to apply for Veterans Choice and use Sacred Heart’s doctors and services.

Now he’s back on the boat with his dad, fishing every chance he gets — just like the doctor ordered.

About the Veterans Choice Program The Veterans Choice Program enables veterans who have waited more than 30 days for medical care, or are more than 40 miles from an appropriate VA healthcare provider, to receive needed care close to home from a non-VA provider.

As part of Ascension, the nation’s largest nonprofit healthcare system and the world’s largest Catholic health system, Sacred Heart joins Ascension facilities in 24 states and the District of Columbia in serving as an official provider of veterans care outside the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA).

“No population is more vulnerable and more deserving of our compassion and support than our nation’s veterans,” said Susan Davis, president and CEO of Sacred Heart Health System. “The men and women in our community who have sacrificed so much for us deserve access to highquality healthcare.”

For more information about Veterans Choice, visit ascension.org/veterans.

A message from Carol Carlan “There’s just one thing (we) need. (We) don’t care about the presents, underneath the Christmas tree.”

As we approach the holiday season, the song titled “All I Want for Christmas is You” reminds us of those families who are hoping to reunite with sick and injured loved ones, especially during the holiday season.

For Christmas, we are not looking to fill pretty boxes with presents underneath the Christmas tree. Our Christmas wishes are bigger than that — to fulfill our Greatest Needs to make a difference in the lives of families and bring them back together, especially during the holiday season.

When you are called to serve, your needs are great. Our Greatest Needs are to further the mission of the Daughters of Charity by supporting our neighbors — all neighbors — from Carol H. Carlan Northwest Florida, President, Southern Alabama, Sacred Heart Foundation Mississippi and Southwest Georgia.

In Pensacola, we wish to bring a new Children’s Hospital to a new generation. The Studer Family Children’s Hospital at Sacred Heart will ensure the children of tomorrow will have greater access to specialized healthcare designed with a child’s needs in mind. We can make a difference by putting babies back into the arms of their parents and children back into the lives of families.

In Destin, our wish is to assist more individuals in our Emergency Department and our Medical/Surgical Department and more families in our Family Birth Place, and ultimately we wish to provide a new service to our youngest, most fragile members of the communities we serve — a Level II Neonatal Intensive Care Unit.

“All (we) want for Christmas is You!” Please help our Christmas wishes come true by making a gift today!

“Be the difference for those we serve.”

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Jane Kugelman Keeping the legacy alive

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t is only fitting that Jane Sabel Kugelman be described as matriarch of the Kugelman Family. Her life revolves around loving her children and family, spending time with close friends — and, of course, giving. Today, she helps carry on the legacy of her late husband Jack Kugelman, who took over his family’s foundation and devoted his efforts to giving back to local community causes.

Jane is Chairperson and President of The Kugelman Family Foundation. Her granddaughter Jane Lauter, who serves on the Family Foundation board, says, “When we sit down (at Foundation meetings), she takes charge. She is Jack’s voice. She has very firm beliefs and she makes sure we all understand.

She will say, ‘This is what was important to your papa and me.’ ” Their story began in 1946 when Jane met Jack after she and her only sibling, Marcia, returned from attending the University of Alabama.

Jack had recently returned from serving in the Pacific during WWII. She says, “Jack went to Dartmouth College. Oh, he was brilliant. I think that’s why I fell in love with him.”

Following a two-month courtship, Jack proposed and they were married at the Plaza Hotel in New York City. Pensacola became home in order for Jack to run the family business. They lived at his grandmother’s house — called Beachhaven — in Warrington. Jane describes it as a time of wonderful memories.

They later moved to North Hill and finally to East Hill, where Jane still resides.

Her family speaks with great fondness of Jane’s zest for life and laughter and friends — and her indomitable spirit. She survived cancer, not once but three times, and underwent six operations on her hip.

She and Jack had four daughters: Marcy Kugelman, Janet Livingston, Nancy McSweeney and Jackie Kugelman. Marcy and Janet were born at the original Sacred Heart Hospital on Twelfth Avenue.

Jane is quick to say, “Jack was the best father in the world.” Today the family includes eight

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grandchildren and 13 great grandchildren.

As a philanthropist, Jack Kugelman was a great believer in higher education and technology, which the Family Foundation continues to support. He would ask, “Where is the most need?” Jane said that he wanted to give to community resources that would “help a vast array of people be better off,” and he always gave where kids were concerned. “Our foundation gifted The Children’s Hospital at Sacred Heart with its first children’s ambulance.”

The Kugelman Family Foundation contributed significantly to the new Studer Family Children’s Hospital at Sacred Heart, which began construction in December 2016.

“I want our family to be a part of the future of Sacred Heart,” Jane says. “If you’ve led a fulfilled life and you’re fortunate, you give to someone else. I think that’s what our family through the work of our foundation is about — growing things in our community and making a positive impact.” This children’s hospital will have a positive impact on the lives of many children and their families across our region for many years to come.”

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“If you’ve led a fulfilled life and you’re fortunate, you give to someone else.”

– JANE KUGELMAN

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David Sansing

Investing in Our Future

T

o walk into David Sansing’s office is to know immediately what comes first with him. Pictures of his wife Lauren, son Webb, and daughter Julianne adorn the walls and decorate his desk, along with pictures of his parents. “Family is incredibly important,” says David. “I was taught at a young age that you may lose your friends, you may lose your money or job, but you are never going to lose your family. They are always going to be with you.”

David grew up in Pensacola, attended local public schools and returned here after earning his degree in analytical finance at Wake Forest University. He met his wife at the University of Alabama, where they both studied for their Master’s in Business Administration.

Today, he serves as vice president of the Sandy Sansing Automotive Group, having been groomed from an early age to play a major role in his father’s business. Starting in the fifth grade, he would go to the dealership to wash cars and pick up debris from the grounds. In middle school, during the summer he spent three days a week at the business. Over time, he learned all aspects of running the company.

While he works long hours, David spends as much time as possible with his wife and two very young children. But he also contributes his leadership skills to Sacred

“When you’ve been blessed, you’re not blessed just to hold on to it. You have to help others, to benefit other people’s lives.” – DAVID SANSING Heart Hospital, where he and both of his kids were born. “There is no other organization or group I can think of that positively affects more people,” he says. He is chairman of the Sacred Heart Hospital Advisory Council and has chaired the hospital’s board of directors.

David is dedicated to raising funds for the new Studer Family Children’s Hospital at Sacred Heart because he believes that it will be a great asset for our community. It will provide the highest and most sophisticated level of specialized care for children all along the Gulf Coast, eliminating

the need for travel outside our region.

He also participates in the Sansing Foundation, Inc., which gives generously to a variety of area causes, as well as the World Health Organization. David explains, “When you’ve been blessed, you’re not blessed just to hold on to it. You have to help others, to benefit other people’s lives.”

What does the future hold? Professionally, he wants to grow the automotive footprint of the family business, currently with 600 employees at nine dealerships throughout the region.

Personally, he sees himself coaching his son’s little league baseball team someday!

And he hopes, of course, to continue to be involved with Sacred Heart. “Having a hospital known for its quality and excellence and doing the right thing is great for our community,” says David. “It is such a positive driver for the future of Pensacola.”

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2017 UPCOMING EVENTS Throughout the year, Sacred Heart conducts a variety of fundraising events along the Gulf Coast to raise funds to support the many needs that arise in caring for patients of all ages.

These events not only raise money, they also raise awareness of the services that provide care to the poor and medically needy.

MAY 13 – THE STUDER FAMILY CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL AT SACRED HEART 5K

Party with a purpose! Join us for an evening of celebration at the Hilton Sandestin Golf Beach Resort and Spa for this year’s Charity Golf Classic Spring Bash, presented by Howard Group. The evening will feature live music, heavy hors d’oeuvres, silent auction and a live auction to support the Emergency Department expansion at Sacred Heart Hospital on the Emerald Coast in Destin.

Run for Miracles at The Studer Family Children’s Hospital at Sacred Heart. This year’s honorary chairman is Drew Barefield of Crestview. In 2014, Drew survived multiple traumatic injuries from a boating accident.

He was in the hospital for 75 days and underwent 13 surgeries. Despite the severity of his injuries, Drew never questioned whether he’d walk or even run again. Drawing on his faith, he was determined to do both and push past any obstacles in his way. Drew is now running cross country and making miraculous strides by improving his overall time by two minutes. In 2016, Drew was named the 20162017 Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals Champion for the State of Florida.

Be a Miracle Maker and run today!

MARCH 1–3 – RADIOTHON

MAY 8 – CHARITY GOLF CLASSIC

AUGUST 26 – PREEMIE CUP

Listen in, turn it up and call in for the kids! The 19th Annual Radiothon, presented by Cumulus Broadcasting, is a two and a half day live radio broadcast to raise funds for The Studer Family Children’s Hospital at Sacred Heart, your Children’s Miracle Network Hospital, located in Pensacola. Listen in as young patients and parents of children treated at The Studer Family Children’s Hospital at Sacred Heart inspire hearts to pledge their support.

Looking to golf “fore” a great cause? The 16th Annual Charity Golf Classic, presented by Howard Group, has everything you need! This year’s tournament will feature local golf pros competing against one another while paired with each foursome. So get on the green and support your community’s hospital, Sacred Heart Hospital on the Emerald Coast.

Do you sail, stand-up paddle or fish? Preemie Cup has it all! Join us for a day on the water and support the smallest (and bravest) patients treated at the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit at The Studer Family Children’s Hospital at Sacred Heart in Pensacola.

JANUARY 28 – CORDOVA MALL BALL Laissez Les Bon Temps Roulez! Join us for an evening of live entertainment, cuisine from area restaurants, silent auction and a French Market at the 22nd Annual Cordova Mall Ball, presented by Wendy’s. The area’s largest Mardi Gras Ball, supporting the sick and injured children treated at The Studer Family Children’s Hospital at Sacred Heart, will be held at Cordova Mall in Pensacola.

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MAY 7 – CHARITY GOLF CLASSIC SPRING BASH

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2016 PREEMIE CUP

A special thanks to all who made the 2016 Preemie Cup a success!

This year’s event was comprised of a Preemie Cup Pre-Party at The Lee House which included live music, heavy hors d’ouevres, cocktails and a silent auction. On Saturday, everyone headed to the water to participate in the Preemie Cup Paddleboard Relay, Preemie Cup Regatta or the Preemie Cup Fishing Tournament. All events supported the smallest and bravest warriors treated at the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit at The Studer Family Children’s Hospital at Sacred Heart.

(L to R) Preemie Cup Committee Members: Ivan Delabruere, Mallory Wilson, Chloe Vignes, Jessica Stevens, Chris Phillips, Michele Bridenbaugh, Stephanie Bell and Kathryn Hendrix enjoy the Preemie Cup Pre-Party at The Lee House.

(L to R): Sponsors Dr. Clay Sims, Dr. Stu Bonnin and Dr. Ramak Amjad enjoying the Preemie Cup Pre-Party.

Some of our smallest fishermen enjoying their catch!

This year’s fishing tournament was made possible with the help of Chris Phillips at Hot Spots Charters.

Regatta hoping to bring home the win! Thanks to the Pensacola Beach Yacht Club and the Pensacola Yacht Club for making this year’s event a success!

(L to R): Team Leighton getting ready for the Preemie Cup Paddleboard Relay at Little Sabine. A special thanks to Kevin Cook at Coastal Paddle Company for his help in organizing this year’s relay!

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EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM | December 2017 FOUNDATION.SACRED-HEART.ORG SAC R E D H2016–January E ART FO U N DAT IO N

Stories

Heart from the

SP O NSO R ED R E P O RT

DCWAF Presents 2016 Check

(L-R) Roger Hall, SHHEC President; Nina Jeffords, SHHEC COO/CNO; Cheryl Stacy, Pediatric Navigator; Meg Norwood, Operations Project Manager; and Mary Jo Gustave, Marketing/PR Coordinator. They are joined by SHHEC Advisory Board members and other Sacred Heart supporters.

Destin Charity Wine Auction Foundation (DCWAF) recently held its 11th annual checkpresentation ceremony at the Watercolor Lakehouse. Sacred Heart Hospital on the Emerald Coast received $225,000 to fund its new Level II NICU. Thank you to all the supporters, patrons, volunteers, sponsors, vintners and chefs who make this event so successful!

Bringing Comfort to Families in our Care A big thanks to Lisa and Dana Foster for purchasing nine recliners for the Level III Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) at The Studer Family Children’s Hospital at Sacred Heart! Your generosity will bring comfort to the more than 950 children and families served each year in the NICU. You are such a blessing to the families and children we serve!

Driving to Make a Difference Thank you Sandy Sansing BMW for hosting Drive for a Cause! During this one-day event, drivers were able to test drive the BMW 3 Series, 7 Series, X1 or X5 while helping support The Studer Family Children’s Hospital at Sacred Heart!

(L to R) Henry Stovall, President, Sacred Heart Hospital Pensacola and The Studer Family Children’s Hospital at Sacred Heart; Carol Carlan, President, Sacred Heart Foundation; Susan Davis, CEO, Sacred Heart Health System; David Sansing, Vice President, Sandy Sansing Automotive Group; Joe Rowell, Sandy Sansing BMW, Sales Manager.

A BOU T TH E SACR ED H E A RT FOU NDATION 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 health care 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.

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Abodes

DEC 2016/JAN 2017

TRENDS FROM FLOOR TO CEILING, FRONT TO BACK

ADD JOY to Your Door DECORATING

With wreaths, lights and more

by JONI BRANCH

INTERIORS photography by LAWRENCE DAVIDSON

White Kitchens

|| DIY

Guide to Gift Giving

|| GARDENING

Spring-flowering Bulbs

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Succulents are an unexpected wreath adornment that are gaining steady popularity.

Combine greenery with tiny pops of colored flowers.

1 GRAB A GRAPEVINE The classic grapevine wreath from a big-box retailer, craft store or nursery offers a wonderful blank canvas even for those with the most basic crafting skills. Grapevine can be spray-painted in a color that contrasts well with your door — silver, gold, red, gloss white — or left its beautiful natural brown. For minimalist style, wrap a distinctive ribbon in wide loops around a natural or white-painted wreath and make a bow.

Want to do more? Break out the floral wire or a glue gun to attach ornaments, real or artificial berries and greenery, pine cones, lotus seedpods, pheasant feathers, seashells or whatever else strikes your fancy. Door-size wreaths are very affordable: generally $20 and under. Standard doors take an 18-inch round, while oversize portals can take a 24-incher or multiple wreaths.

2 LIKE A RED CARPET Give any door a pop of drama with a wide ribbon running from door-top to wreath. The wreath doesn’t have to hang from the ribbon — it can just be for looks. Attach the ribbon with mounting squares or carefully deployed tape.

3 THE POWER OF THREE Get an elegant, almost architectural display with three plain evergreen wreaths hung in a vertical row from a drop of red velvet ribbon. Still on the theme of three, add whimsy with a vertical row of giant gift bows. For a door sheltered from the weather, JAM Paper Company’s 13-inch “mega” bows could work.

They’re available on Amazon for about $12 each.

4 OUT OF ROUND Break the traditional wreath mold with an unconventional square or with distinctive teardrop swags of greenery, ornaments and/or ribbons shaped into bows or loose loops.

Hang swags from a porch ceiling or door-side lanterns, or on the door itself.

5 ON TREND For a very fresh look, try a succulent wreath. You can buy one from a retailer such as Williams-Sonoma, (williams-sonoma.com), make your own or special order from a local nursery or florist. Michaels, (michaels.com), offers online instructions for the “Succulent Boxwood Greenery Wreath Base.”

D

uring the holidays, a well-decorated front door is like a Christmas card to the world, spreading joy to guests and passers-by. You can go all out — garlands, swags, lights, door-side planters, decorative objects — or focus your efforts on a great wreath that reflects your personal style. To help make your front door extra-special this year, we’ve collected ideas from decorating magazines, Pinterest and local florists.

GO LIVE Love the traditional look and scent of live evergreen wreaths, garlands and swags? You can have that, even in Florida.

Live cut evergreens can be kept alive outside during the Emerald Coast’s cool season for two weeks or more with proper care:

» Always hang cut evergreen decorations in the shade. Any amount of direct sun can turn them brown, no matter how chilly the weather.

» If an evergreen piece looks very dry, lay it stem-side down in a couple of inches of water for a few hours.

» Spritz live wreaths with water at least every few days, daily if the weather is warm.

Live evergreen decorations are available seasonally from local nurseries and florists.

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6 LIGHT IT UP Widely available from retailers, strings of battery-operated, cool-burning LED lights are a godsend for the door decorator. Home Depot sells an indoor/outdoor set of two 15-light strands of “LED Warm White Little Lights” for about $13. Each strand needs three AA batteries and has a built-in timer set for six hours on and 18 hours off, perfect for a Christmas display.

SUCCULENT WREATH SUPPLIES ➸O asis foam wreath base: soak until saturated ➸G reening pins and wired wood floral picks, 4 and 6 inch ➸ T errarium-sized succulents, 2 inch, plus larger for accents ➸ F loral tape: add around picks to secure succulent ➸ S heet moss for filler

photography by LAWRENCE DAVIDSON

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abodes INTERIORS

→

I’m Dreaming of a

WHITE KITCHEN

How to add color to your white kitchen

They are gaining in popularity, but what’s the draw?

by SANDI POREDA

If all white is too much, you can add color in creative and unexpected ways:

↖

Qualities such as clean, fresh, interchangeable, on-trend and bright prove that all white is a delight.

A

sk a woman designing or dreaming of her next kitchen what she wants, and there’s a good chance she’ll say she wants all white — cupboards, counters, even appliances.

Clean, sleek and modern, all-white kitchens are becoming a white-hot option, for a host of reasons.

Color psychology may have a lot to do with this preference. The color white evokes feelings of purity and lightness, and is often considered the color of perfection. An added bonus is the illusion of more space; all white rooms seem bigger, more airy, more open. And who doesn’t dream of a clean, spacious kitchen?

“We are a little different than most

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of the nation; because of our coastal location we have seen white kitchens be a choice for our clients for many years,” said Sherrie Linn, lead designer at Linn’s Prestige Kitchens and Baths.

We recommend being mindful of Italian gravy, fruit juices and anything else that could stain. Otherwise, it’s very easy to keep clean.

You may need to wipe down the cabinets in your all-white kitchen regularly, and polish your appliances, but you would need to do that anyway. Choosing quartz countertops over marble makes the maintenance minimal.

Another reason all white kitchens may be worth their weight in gold?

December 2016–January 2017 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

Real estate value. White is classic, timeless and easy to match. And there’s nothing quite like a clean coat of white paint to make something sparkle like new again.

“Nationally, we are trending away from heavy, dark, carved molding embellished kitchens,” said Linn. “We are seeing much more of a trend toward light colors and contemporary or transitional styling.”

Whether you’re ready to commit to white from ceiling to baseboards or you plan to incorporate color strategically, a white kitchen could be just the breath of fresh air you’ve been waiting for. And if you change your mind, white is an easy color to paint over! EC

➸ Wood mixes well with a white background, so consider a customized cutting board, display wooden kitchen utensils or add a butcher’s block. ➸ Try a monochromatic infusion of color: Choose your favorite hue and incorporate it with a tea kettle and tea cups, or go bold with a colored backsplash. ➸ Black counters are striking in an otherwise all white kitchen; try quartz or black granite for a statement combination. ➸ Make a splash with multi-colored plates or platters; against all-white backgrounds, they’ll draw the eye in a highimpact way.

photography by JOHNSTON ROBERTS

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abodes DIY

THE DO-IT-YOURSELF GUIDE TO GIFT GIVING Know your limits; consider the recipient

by KIM HARRIS THACKER

’T

is the season of giving, and what better way to show someone you care than to give him or her a handmade Christmas gift?

This seems like a great notion until you Google “gifts, homemade.” You see, the list of creations a well-intentioned DIYer can make is endless. With a little help, however, you’ll soon be crafting and gifting like Martha Stewart.

First, consider the amount of time and money you can spend on a gift.

Then ask yourself, “What would my mom/sister/husband/best girlfriend want to receive?” When you have several good ideas written down, decide which gift you want to make. You’re not being selfish in doing this; you’re being smart. Three hours spent cutting giant wooden blocks might result in that game of lawn Jenga you were determined to make for your brother, but it might also

result in some familial resentment and a strong aversion to all things stacked (salad plates, underwear — just imagine the consequences).

After you’ve selected which gift you’re going to make, locate and purchase supplies. Craft stores are fabulous for buying bits and bobs, but you might want to scour local thrift stores, too.

Now, for those of you who like the idea of a hand-crafted Christmas present but fear the actual crafting process, try making a “container gift:” a memory/shadow box (like a deep-set picture frame) or clear glass cookie jar filled with goodies or with treasures and mementos from experiences you and your loved one have had together.

Your imagination and the size of your container are your only limits!

Finally, don’t forget that time together is, perhaps, the most meaningful — and personalized — gift of all. EC

FOR HER

➸ Create a bohemian-style dreamcatcher

by stitching a doily to a similarly sized embroidery hoop. If necessary, wrap the hoop with ribbon to hide any stitches. Tie matching and contrasting ribbons, lace, fabric and other fluttery business to the bottom of the hoop.

Get Crafty!

FOR HIM

➸ Make a firewood carrier for

that special someone who loves to cook over an open fire. The concept is simple: a rug with handles.

Work pieces of leather or flexible rope through the short ends of a woven kitchen rug and tie each end together.

When you’ve created eight loops (four on each side with a gap in the middle), run two dowels (1 inch in diameter and of a slightly longer length than the width of your rug) through the loops on either side of your rug.

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abodes GARDENING

HOW TO PLANT SPRING-FLOWERING BULBS

Your Monthly Garden Chores

BULBS AND BULB-LIKE FLOWERING PLANTS (corms, tubers, rhizomes) can be tricky here in USDA Zone 8b. Some of the most well-known bulbs, such as tulips and hyacinths, don’t do well here or they require special care. Tropical bulbs need to be dug, stored for the winter and replanted in spring.

But don’t despair. Bulbs that love our climate and should be planted now include amaryllis, crinums, narcissus (daffodils), irises and snowflakes. There are slight differences in how to handle them, particularly in planting depth and spacing, but the general instructions are the same. BY AUDREY POST, MS. GROW-IT-ALL®

DECEMBER

➸ Plant pre-chilled

tulips and hyacinths early in the month. ➸ Fertilize winterblooming annuals once a month, and pinch off spent flowers to keep them blooming. ➸ Plant cool-season vegetables, including English peas and snow peas, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, radishes, collards, carrots and kohlrabi. ➸ Plant cool-season herbs, such as parsley, sage, cilantro and dill. ➸ Plant fruit trees this month.

JANUARY

➸ Plant seedlings

STEP 3: Work in soil amendments such as well-rotted manure or aged compost and an all-purpose fertilizer.

Unless your soil test showed a deficiency in phosphorus, use a fertilizer with a zero middle number (15-0-15).

STEP 4: Plant your bulbs pointed end up, at the depth and spacing recommended for that specific type of bulb.

Plant in groups of three or five for a pleasing presentation. Make sure you choose varieties for North Florida, particularly daffodils.



Not Your Cup of Tea Camellias and hollies are vivid in the North Florida landscape during this time of year. Red, pink and white camellia blooms and PESKY red holly berries create pops of color amid glossy dark foliage. But PESTS danger can lurk on the undersides of the shiny leaves in the form of an insect called tea scale. The insects, which suck the plant’s juices to the point of weakening or even killing it, are hard to kill. They get their name from the scaly armor that covers them. Signs of tea scale infestation include yellow speckles on the tops of the leaves and a white fuzzy coating on the bottom.

As the infestation spreads, the leaves turn yellow and drop and branches begin to die back. Horticultural oil sprays are effective this time of year, when temperatures usually range between 45 and 85. Make sure you cover the underside of the leaves thoroughly. You might need to repeat the application every 10-14 days if the infestation is severe. Prune the interior of the shrubs before you spray to allow for better coverage.

If you opt for something more lethal than horticultural oil, read the label carefully to be sure it is approved for use on tea scale, and use the amount specified.

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➸ Continue sowing seeds for lettuces, spinach and other salad greens every week to 10 days. ➸ Plant cool-season herbs, such as parsley, cilantro, dill and sage.

TEA SCALE

©2016 PostScript Publishing LLC, all rights reserved.

Audrey Post is a certified Advanced Master Gardener volunteer with the University of Florida/ IFAS Extension in Leon County. Email her at Questions@ MsGrowItAll.com or visit her website at msgrowitall.com.

Ms. Grow-It-All® is a registered trademark of PostScript Publishing.

MAMZIOLZI / SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

STEP 2: Get the soil tested in the area you want to plant your bulbs. Kits are available at your county extension office.

Also, check the drainage of your proposed bulb bed.

Good drainage is essential, or else your bulbs could rot. If the drainage is poor, you can build a raised bed and fill it with good garden soil.

AUDREY POST

STEP 1: Select a sunny location. Most bulbs prefer at least six hours of sun a day.

Too much shade makes them spindly.

of cool-weather vegetables, such as broccoli, cauliflower, collards, cabbage and kohlrabi.

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SPONSORED REPORT

DEAL ESTATE JUST SOLD

Waterfront Wonder Claims Owners Private, bayside home gains new residents

by REBECCA PADGETT

When a waterfront location is in the equation, it’s all about the views … and this home, overlooking Garnier Bayou, doesn’t disappoint. Water can be viewed from just about every room. A mix of mid-century and modern architectural styles give this house a welcoming — but refreshed — vibe that complements its abundance of outdoor living space.

LIST PRICE: $998,000 SOLD PRICE: $998,000 ADDRESS: 17 Longwood Drive Shalimar SQUARE FEET: 4,419 BEDROOMS: 4 BATHROOMS: 5 YEAR BUILT: 1985

APPEAL: “This home is a midcentury modern, waterfront estate located in Poquito Bayou.

Vaulted ceilings and tremendous water views make this home an entertainers dream.”

CONTACT: Matthew Williams, Remax Southern Realty, (850) 259-6288, 259matt@gmail.com

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PHOTOS BY TROY WARD PHOTOGRAPHY

FEATURES: Three floors, exercise room overlooking Garnier Bayou, waterfront views from the master bedroom, dining room and living room, interior brick features, oversized patio overlooking lush landscaping, dock, boatlift, two-car garage, attic space, hot tub and barbeque pit

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SPONSORED REPORT

DEAL ESTATE JUST LISTED

Placing a Jewel Into the Crown Destin’s most coveted home is nearing completion

by REBECCA PADGETT

A king and queen need their palace to be luxurious, with ample space for entertaining and dazzling guests. Nine thousand square feet of Gulf-front property is sure to do the trick.

This private perch boasts stunning views, opulent amenities and all of the impeccable details that result from architectural expertise … making it the “Destin Jewel,” indeed.

LIST PRICE: $9.8 million ADDRESS: 618 Gulf Shore Drive SQUARE FOOTAGE: 9,000 heated; 14,000 total BEDROOMS: 9 BATHROOMS: 10½ YEAR BUILT: 2016 FEATURES: Telescoping glass walls, limestone flooring, white cabinetry, three chef’s kitchens, two breakfast bars, private balconies, one laundry room per floor, a circular glass elevator, a theatre room, a floating grand staircase, a resort-style pool with two swim-up bars and 100 feet of private beach APPEAL: “I am thrilled to represent Destin Jewel, a modern, minimalist private retreat on Destin’s Holiday Isle.

The newly constructed home blends today’s sophisticated styling with the simplicity of beachfront living. Perched over an acre of private beach, the crescent-shaped glass and poured-concrete home perfectly merges indoors and out and includes all of the amenities of a high-end resort.”

PHOTOS BY CHAS GALLOWAY

CONTACT: Cindy Cole, Cindy Cole Fine Homes, (850) 502-6344, cindy@ccfinehomes.com

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(continued from page 73) Green sea turtle,  Sweet Pea, was found entangled and floating near Ono Island in Alabama.

Injuries are indicative of a boat strike. Fishing line was also prominent inside the animal and around its left front flipper and was carefully removed. The white you see is bees wax which is used to help heal and protect the turtle’s exposed areas.

PHOTO BY TODD DOUGLAS

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“Almost all stranded animals require some form of rehabilitation or treatment, so every effort is made to get them into a rehabilitation facility as quickly as possible,” McDowell said. “Animals in need of rescue typically are extremely weak, dehydrated and haven’t eaten in a while. There isn’t a magic pill that we can give them to make them feel better, so it is a process to get their bodies and physiology working normally again.”

It takes a great deal of effort, time and resources to prepare an animal for release. That is why facilities like the Gulfarium C.A.R.E. Center are dependent upon community support and donations to keep everything going, McDowell said.

“This also allows the community to play an active role in marine conservation and see their own efforts making a difference in the lives of rescued marine life,” he said.

Garrett said that manatees are fairly successful in rehab, whereas dolphins — especially younger dolphins — are often kept and not released.

“The goal is to release, but that’s sometimes not feasible. We’re more apt to intervene on a human-related entanglement, but if it’s a more natural situation there’s a hands-off approach,” he said. “Some dolphins find themselves out of habitat and we’ll go in and relocate them, but with manatees we’re more apt to intervene.

We still evaluate every case, but we’re a little more aggressive about manatees. We do have the authority to catch free-swimming manatees that are sick or injured.

Since (manatees) have more protection and are endangered, we have more leeway to intervene to rescue and take them to rehab. Because dolphins are not endangered, usually it’s a more drawn-out process before we decide to intervene.”

There are three federally permitted critical care rehab facilities in Florida for manatees. These are the Lowry Park Zoo in Tampa, SeaWorld Orlando and the Miami Seaquarium.

Unfortunately, despite the best efforts of well-meaning volunteers and experts, a stranded animal occasionally does die. But its death isn’t meaningless, because researchers are afforded a chance to learn more about strandings and perhaps find ways to prevent them from happening.

“If an animal ends up passing away, we try to deter-

mine the cause of death or reason for the strand and anything we can do management-wise to stop it from happening again. We have a whole program dedicated to collecting dead animals for research,” Garrett said.

Jack Rudloe, founder of the Gulf Specimen Marine Lab in Panacea, knows what it’s like to watch helplessly as a marine animal, such as a sea turtle, dies. Removing fishing hooks is one thing, and the lab has saved many turtles that way, but he knows all too well the diseases that can ravage sea turtles.

“We had a loggerhead which we just buried at sea a week or so ago, and it was a horrible and tragic thing,” Rudloe said in August.

“It was covered in barnacles, emaciated and just drifting around in the sea for a long time.

It could hardly move.”

Rudloe’s team went into action and brought the sick animal to the lab for treatment, which included efforts to try and get it to eat.

Despite their best efforts, however, the turtle died. A necropsy revealed “blackened” tissues and brittle bones; the exact disease was not readily identified, — ANDY GARRETT, AN he said.

FWC MARINE MAMMAL In another case of BIOLOGIST AT THE disease, a green sea MARINE MAMMAL turtle rescued near PATHOBIOLOGY Wakulla County’s Piney Island in 2013 had LABORATORY IN clear signs of fibroST. PETERSBURG papillomatosis, a viral illness that Rudloe described as a “very debilitating and horrible-looking disease,” characterized by fibrous tumors that can impede vision, feeding and swimming. In the case of “Prince,” he was transferred to Clearwater Marine Aquarium for analysis and treatment. Rudloe said that these cases don’t usually offer a hopeful prognosis, but after a regimen of tube feedings, vitamin injection and tumor removal, “Prince” recovered and about a year later was released back into the wild. According to the FWC, the root cause of the virus behind the tumors is unknown, but research continues. EC

“If an animal ends up passing away, we try to determine the cause of death or reason for the strand and anything we can do managementwise to stop it from happening again.”

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To many, a new year sparks the aspiration for a fresh start and a personalized take on health and fitness goals. Becoming a better you in 2017 stems from being conscious of your health, which could mean joining a fitness class that gets your heart pumping, changing your diet to a more healthful path, undergoing a body enhancement therapy or treating yourself to the pair of athletic shoes that are sure to help you run your fastest marathon time yet.

Whether you are a seasoned fitness expert or are just beginning your voyage to health, these local businesses, through their services and products, can help you achieve and maintain a life of overall health.

COSMETIC VEIN & LASER CENTER SCULPSURE® Breakthrough in light-based

body contouring designed to permanently reduce stubborn fat in problem areas, helping you achieve a slimmer and more natural looking appearance without surgery or downtime. 651 Grand Panama Blvd. #102, Panama City Beach, (850) 233–0264, skinandveins.com

Permanent hair reduction offers unparalleled treatment speed and efficacy with optimal patient comfort. The Desire is more than 75% faster than the average hair reduction session, and also features the ChillTip™ for pain relief.

651 Grand Panama Blvd. #102, Panama City Beach, (850) 233–0264, skinandveins.com

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COURTESY CYNOSURE AND LUMENIS

COSMETIC VEIN & LASER CENTER LIGHTSHEER DESIRE™

SPEC IAL ADVE RTISING SECTIO N

COSMETIC VEIN & LASER CENTER Kimberly Moskowitz, MS, MD After completing her residency at Georgetown University in Washington D.C., Dr. Moskowitz, Board Certified in Internal Medicine and venous and lymphatic medicine, moved here with a passion to provide our beaches with innovative non-surgical treatments for varicose and spider veins.

Her reputation, experience, and compassion attract patients from around the world as she has performed over 10,000 EVLT procedures for non-surgical closure of varicose veins and spider veins. Dr. Moskowitz combines EVLT with sclerotherapy, foam sclerotherapy, and lasers to keep legs feeling healthy and looking beautiful.

Dr. Moskowitz specializes in all aspects of the aging face and skin including sunspots, wrinkles, skin cancers, birthmarks, and sagging skin, Laser Skin Resurfacing, Photodynamic Therapy for skin cancer and pre-cancers, Botox, Dermal fillers, laser hair removal, body contouring, laser liposuction, and medical skin disorders such as acne and rosacea.

651 Grand Panama Blvd., Suite 102 Panama City Beach, FL, 32407 (850) 233-0264 skinandveins.com EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

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Health&Fitness

SPEC IAL ADVE RTISING SECTIO N

RUN WITH IT

170 Miracle Strip Parkway, Fort Walton Beach, FL 32548 (850) 243-1007 runwithitfl.com

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CHASE YAKABOSKI

Knee pain? Shins aching? Hips hurt?

Chances are your athletic shoes are to blame. Shoes are our foundation, yet most runners don’t know what type of shoe they need. Run With It is a locally owned technical running store, specializing in analyzing a customer’s arch type and gait in order to find the shoe that is best suited for individual running or walking styles.

While runners are the most common customers, Run With It caters to all types of fitness enthusiasts and to anyone interested in starting and maintaining a healthy lifestyle.

The store offers top-of-the-line name brand shoes, apparel and healthrelated products that can’t be found anywhere else on the coast. Properly fitted shoes make for happy feet.

“At Run With It, we fit feet!”

December 2016–January 2017 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

www.RunSeasideFL.com Seaside, FL March 3, 2017 - Taste of the Race March 4, 2017 - Race Expo March 5, 2017 - Half Marathon & 5K Run

REFRESH, RELAX & REJUVENATE Experience ultimate luxury at our award-winning Serenity by the sea Spa — a harmonious blend of atmosphere, services and products that leave guests feeling refreshed, relaxed and rejuvenated.

APPOINTMENTS

850-622-9595 All Finishers Receive a Vera Bradley Tote, Moisture-Wicking Technical Shirt, Runner Goody Bag, Delicious Lunch and Beer, and a Wonderful Post-Race Party with Live Music!

Half Marathon Finishers Also Receive a Custom Medal!

SerenitybytheseaSpa.com

Located at: 4000 Sandestin Blvd South Miramar Beach, FL 32550

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JAN. 13-15

30A SONGWRITERS FESTIVAL ďƒ

Local and national singers/songwriters will venture to the Emerald Coast for a three-day festival featuring more than 150 musicians giving more than 300 performances at 25 venues ranging from intimate listening rooms to spacious outdoor amphitheaters along 30A. Previous artists have included Jackson Browne, Grace Potter, Shovels & Rope and J.D. Souther, among many others. Proceeds benefit the Cultural Arts Alliance of Walton County. Box office headquarters is located at Watercolor Inn. Call (850) 622-5970 or visit 30asongwritersfestival.com for more information.

Folk singer and songwriter, Shawn Colvin, promises to wow at the 30A Songwriters Festival.

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calendar SPECIAL PROMOTION

DEC 2016/JAN 2017 For more events in the EC, visit EmeraldCoastMagazine.com compiled by JENNIFER IRELAND and MATT ALGARIN

JAN. 20

Destin Desserts → Get your sweet tooth ready for the Girl Scout’s competition where six area chefs will compete for the 2017 Destin Desserts Champion title. Chefs from LuLu’s, Clemenza’s, Jackacudas, Agean, Cafe Rico and Signature Catering of 30A will be presenting their own dessert creations for guests to sample utilizing Girl Scout cookies.

Doors open at 6 p.m. at The Palms of Destin and tickets include a social hour, hors d’oeuvres, dessert tasting and voting, silent auction and entertainment by the Niceville High School Big Band. Proceeds benefit the Girl Scouts of the Florida Panhandle’s Camp Kolomoki.

DEC. 8-24

PHOTOS BY CHASE YAKABOSKI (A DICKENS CHRISTMAS), JOHN-ABBOTT (MANHATTAN TRANSFER), TRAVIS SHINN PHOTOGRAPHY (MARC MARON) AND COURTESY OF PROPELLER PUBLICITY (COLVIN) AND DESTIN DESSERTS

A DICKENS CHRISTMAS: A GHOST STORY

REGIONAL

JAN. 24

MARC MARON

→ The holiday season’s most haunting story as told by Dickens himself through the voices of four storytellers. Scrooge will be chilled by those infamous apparitions as audiences are warmed by this classic tale. Run time for the show is about 70 minutes, with no intermission.

→ For over 20 years, Marc Maron has been writing and performing raw, honest and thought-provoking comedy for print, stage, radio, television and more. A legend in the stand-up community, Maron has appeared on many television talk shows; but he is, perhaps, most known for his thoughtful and compelling podcast, WTF with Marc Maron. Maron’s scripted series, Maron, on IFC, has also garnered national acclaim, and he continues to rake in recognition for his trailblazing and absorbing forms of comedy.

A VIP preview party and post-show reception will be held on Thursday, Dec. 8, at 7:30 p.m. Regular shows will begin the following night and will run every Thursday through Sunday until Christmas. Shows start at 7:30 p.m., except for on Sundays, when they start at 2 p.m. There will be an additional Christmas matinee (2 p.m.) on Christmas Eve. All shows will be held at the Grand Boulevard at Sandestin, in Miramar Beach. Tickets range from $15-$25 ($40 for the VIP preview with post-show reception). Visit emeraldcoasttheatre.org for more information.

See him live as part of Opening Nights at the Ruby Diamond Concert Hall in Tallahassee at 7:30 p.m. Tickets range from $15-$55 and can be purchased online at openingnights.fsu.edu.

DEC. 16

Sinfonia Swingin’ Holiday, Featuring the Manhattan Transfer → The legendary Manhattan Transfer joins Sinfonia Gulf Coast for the region’s most festive annual holiday concert. This 10-time Grammy Award-winning Vocal Hall of Fame inductee will have you singin’ and swingin’ in your seats.

The concert will be held at the Destiny Worship Center at 7:30 p.m., and a holiday happy hour will follow at Bijoux, located in The Market Shops. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit sinfoniagulfcoast.org.

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SAVE THE DATE

APRIL 7, 2017

HILTON SANDESTIN BEACH GOLF RESORT & SPA For more information and to purchase tickets go to: EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM

SPONSORED BY

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PRESENTED BY

calendar

DEC 2016/JAN 2017

ADSO WINDOW DISPLAY DEC. 1–31

↑ FESTIVAL OF TREES NOV. 22–DEC. 25 Festival of Trees, held annually in Grand Park, showcases a unique array of Christmas trees decorated by area nonprofits. The trees will be on display for the public’s view starting on the Tuesday before Thanksgiving and running through Christmas Day, and information about the participating nonprofit organizations will be available. FREE. Grand Park, 495 Grand Blvd., Miramar Beach. Mon–Sat, 10 a.m.– 9 p.m. (850) 837-3099 grandboulevard.com

FREE PHOTOS WITH SANTA SATURDAYS, DEC. 1–17 Get into the spirit with us in Grand Park as we offer free photos with Santa Claus and creative crafts with Abrakadoodle. FREE. 600 Grand Blvd., Miramar Beach.

1:30–3 p.m. (850) 837-3099 grandboulevard.com

EVERY CHRISTMAS STORY EVER TOLD PHOTO COURTESY GRAND BOULEVARD AT SANDESTIN (FESTIVAL OF TREES)

DEC. 1–29 This hilarious whirlwind of a performance tackles all of your favorite Christmas stories while bringing in all the special holiday traditions you share with your family: watching the Macy’s Thanksgiving Parade, caroling and re-gifting that fruit cake … again. $10–$25. The REP Theatre, 216 Quincy Circle, Seaside. 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.

See website for full dates and times: lovetherep.com.

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO

During the month of December, the work of artist and dollmaker Gini Simpson will be on display in the studio windows of the Arts and Design Society Art Center. Drive by and stop to see these works.

FREE. Art Center, 17 First St. SE, Fort Walton Beach.

(850) 244-1271 artsdesignsociety.org

12 NIGHTS OF LIGHTS DEC. 1–31 For the month of December, enjoy a festive light show in the Events Plaza set to your favorite holiday music every Wednesday, Friday and Saturday leading up to Christmas at 6, 7, and 8 p.m. This sparkling event will also be featured during the holiday editions of the Wednesday Night Concert Series at 7 p.m. Events Plaza in The Village of Baytowne Wharf, Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort, 9300 Emerald Coast Pkwy. W, Miramar Beach.

(850) 267-8180 baytownewharf.com

BAYTOWNE ON ICE DEC. 1–FEB. 11 Get into the winter spirit with an evening at this seasonal ice skating rink.

The first hour of each day is reserved for “kids skate” for children ages 12 and under. $13, includes skate rental.

The Village of Baytowne Wharf at Sandestin, 9300 U.S. Hwy. 98, Miramar Beach.

11 a.m.–10 p.m. (times may vary). (850) 267-8184 baytownewharf.com

21ST ANNUAL SOUNDS OF THE SEASON DEC. 2 Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation, Destin Assembly of God, Destin First Baptist Church, Destin United Methodist

Church and Village Baptist Church present an evening of spectacular Christmas music, featuring world-class violinist Lori Jean Smith and accompanied by the Mattie Kelly Community Chorus and other special guest performers. Free admission with the donation of an unwrapped toy and a “love offering” to benefit the Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation’s All Kinds of Art educational outreach artist residencies.

Village Baptist Church, 101 Matthew Blvd., Destin. 7 p.m.

(850) 650-2226 mattiekellyartsfoundation.org

PENSACOLA WINTERFEST DEC. 2, 3, 9, 16–23 Through the magic of Pensacola Winterfest, the moment you enter Christmas Town at the Courthouse on Palafox Street, the snow begins to fall. A cup of hot chocolate and the sound of a trolley bell bring back memories of the Polar Express. The conductor calls your name: All aboard for the most wonderful journey you’ll take this Christmas season.

Performance Tour (Dec. 2, 3, 9, 16–18): Adults, $12–$32; kids, $7–$19. Santa’s Express Tour (Dec. 19–23): $15 for adults; $7 for kids.

Tickets available at pensacolawinterfest.org/tickets.

Downtown Pensacola. (850) 583-1365, pensacolawinterfest.org

CHRISTMAS AT THE BEACH DEC. 3 Gulf Place and Hope Lutheran Church have joined forces once again to bring back their Christmas at the Beach in Gulf Place on Saturday, Dec. 3. Area families are invited to Gulf Place from 3 to 6 p.m. for FREE kids activities, arts and crafts, family photos with Santa, local holiday shopping, caroling, live music and the lighting of the Gulf Place Christmas Tree. FREE. Gulf Place Town Center, 45 Town Center Loop, Santa Rosa Beach

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

VISIT WITH SANTA

HOLIDAY HARBOR HOP

DEC. 3, 4, 10, 11, 17, 18

DEC. 11

It’s time for the children to bring their wish list and visit with Santa Claus along the Destin Harbor. All of Santa’s guest receive a special treat. FREE. 10 Harbor Blvd., Destin.

12–4 p.m.

The community is invited to hop the harbor’s hottest hangouts during this #SundayFunday event benefitting Food For Thought Outreach Inc, a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization that provides backpacks filled with healthy food for students who are dependent on free school meals.

Admission is $5 or a donation to the FFT Food Drive. Destin Harbor: Boshamps Oyster House, 11 a.m.–1 p.m.; AJ’s Seafood & Oyster Bar, 1:30– 3:30 p.m.; Brotula’s Seafood House & Steamer, 4–6 p.m.

(850) 460-8900

Call (800) 676-0091, emeraldgrande.com/events.

NFSO 30TH SEASON — HOLIDAY POPS CONCERT DEC. 9 Ring in the season with all your holiday favorites as the NFSO is joined by the Northwest Florida Symphony Chorale and the talented NWF State College Madrigal Singers and Belle Voci Women’s Ensemble.

The annual Holiday Pops concert will be held in the Main Stage Theater of the Mattie Kelly Arts Center. $25 for adults; $18 for activeduty military and youth.

Mattie Kelly Arts Center, 100 College Blvd., Niceville.

7:30 p.m. (850) 729-6000 nfsymphony.org

TUBA CHRISTMAS & BAYTOWNE HOLIDAY LANTERN PARADE DEC. 10 In celebration of the holiday season, Playground Music Center presents “A Tuba Christmas,” where more than 30 brass instruments play holiday classics. The seventh annual Holiday Lantern Parade will follow. This community event will feature commissioned paper lanterns in the shapes of iconic symbols of the holiday season. Don’t forget to stop by and see Santa in the Village Events Plaza! FREE. The Village of Baytowne Wharf, 9300 U.S. Hwy. 98, Miramar Beach.

6 p.m. (850) 267-8117 baytownewharf.com

BILLY CLAUS AND THE LULUBELLES DEC. 11 Bring the kids to Lulu’s Destin to meet Billy Claus — Santa’s brother from the Caribbean, who helps Santa collect toy lists from all the good girls and boys — and the LuLuBelles (Billy’s elves). Kids’ arts and crafts, a Santa letter-station and photo opportunities will also be available. FREE. Lulu’s Destin, 4607 Legendary Marina Drive, Destin.

2 p.m. (850) 710-5858 Lulubuffett.com

30TH ANNUAL HOLIDAY ON THE HARBOR BOAT PARADE DEC. 11 Sponsored by the Destin History and Fishing Museum, this unique Destin holiday tradition features boats of every size lighting up the Destin harbor. Judging is upstairs at Margaritaville, with fireworks at the end of the parade presented

by PyroShows, Inc. and sponsored by HarborWalk Village. FREE. Visible from various locations along the Destin Harbor. 6 p.m.

(850) 837-6611 destinhistoryandfishingmuseum.org

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

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The Florida Mission of Mercy (FLA-MOM) is a two-day, no charge dental care clinic with volunteers serving patients in need.

DONATE TO THE FLA-MOM TODAY!

MARCH 24-25, 2017 Woodham Middle School, Pensacola, Fla.

Contact your Local Co-chairs for more information: DR. KIM JERNIGAN • 850.434.5247 DR. WALTER BIGGS • 850.501.5484 www.flamom.org • flamom@floridadental.org

YOU CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE

BY VOLUNTEERING! Join us as we provide dental care to those in greatest need. We are looking for the following types of volunteers: � dentists, hygienists, dental assistants � lab technicians � physicians, nurses, pharmacists, EMTs � general community volunteers � patient and volunteer registration � escorting patients � interpreting � parking � food service and more!

Go to www.flamom.org to sign up NOW!

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GULF PLACE SPARKLING WINE WALKABOUT

RUDOLPH THE RED-NOSED REINDEER: THE MUSICAL

PENSACOLA PELICAN DROP™

DEC. 15

DEC. 19

The monthly “Third Thursday Wine Walkabout,” presented by the Merchants at Gulf Place, will be held on Dec. 15. Attendees can enjoy samplings of hand-selected sparkling wines in honor of the holiday season, light appetizers, live music and giveaways while venturing to all of the different Gulf Place shops. $20. Gulf Place, 45 Town Center Loop, Santa Rosa Beach.

5–7 p.m. (850) 267-8458

The beloved TV classic “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer” soars off the screen and onto the stage this holiday season.

See all of your favorite characters as they come to life in “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer: The Musical.” It’s an adventure that teaches us that what makes you different can be what makes you special.

Saenger Theatre, 118 S. Palafox Place, Pensacola.

7:30 p.m. (850) 595-3880

Ring in the new year in Downtown Pensacola with The Pensacola Pelican Drop™. Garden and Palafox streets will close at 3 p.m. (area restaurants and shops will remain open), and revelers will enjoy refreshments and live performances until 12:30 a.m., when the giant, 14-foot pelican (14 feet tall, with a 20-foot wingspan!) descends from the rooftops above the streets, amid fireworks and confetti. A special children’s countdown will begin at 8 p.m. FREE. Downtown Pensacola.

3 p.m.–12:30 a.m.

(850) 434-5371

facebook.com/GulfPlace/events

DESTIN CHAMBER’S 50TH ANNIVERSARY GALA & AWARDS CEREMONY DEC. 15 Presented by Fort Walton Beach Medical Center and Twin Cities Hospital.

Event highlights include live entertainment with Triggerproof — the best party band in the South — and an awards celebration and champagne toast in the area’s newest luxury resort.

Attire is black-tie. Exclusive VIP Reception is by invitation only. $120 per ticket or $1,100 for a table of 10. The Henderson, 200 Henderson Resort Way, Destin. 6:30– 9:30 p.m. (850) 837-6241

COURTESY OF THE BAYTOWNE WHARF

destinchamber.com

pensacolasaenger.com

BEACH BALL DROP DEC. 31 It’s a New Year’s Eve tradition unlike others: 10,000 beach balls will rain down on revelers at Pier Park as part of the annual Beach Ball Drop. There will also be face painting, socializing with costumed characters, giveaways, live entertainment, fireworks and a countdown to the New Year. FREE. Pier Park, 600 Pier Park Drive, Panama City Beach. Family celebration begins at 5:30 p.m.; adult celebration begins at 8:15 p.m.

(850) 236-9974 visitpanamacitybeach.com/ events/new-years-eve-beachball-drop/

THE NUTCRACKER

NOON YEAR’S EVE FOR KIDS

DEC. 16–18

DEC. 31

Experience the magic of this beloved holiday classic featuring the tale of young Clara and her Nutcracker Prince. Share the enchantment with your family as you journey through a glistening winter wonderland and the whimsical Land of the Sweets. $25–$37. Saenger Theatre, 118 S. Palafox Place, Pensacola. Fri–Sat, 7 p.m.; Sun, 1:30 p.m.

LuLu’s Destin presents their 2nd annual Noon Year’s Eve celebration.

Kids can ring in the New Year with a special noon countdown to a beach ball drop, preceded by a sandcastle building contest, crafts, face painting, kid-friendly music and inflatables.

FREE. 4607 Legendary Marina Drive, Destin.

10 a.m. (850) 710-5858

Visit balletpensacola.com.

Lulubuffett.com/destin

DEC. 31

pensacolapelicandrop.com

A NIGHT ON BOURBON STREET: CELEBRATE THE NEW YEAR! DEC. 31 Join Wycliffe Gordon and friends for a spectacular evening of New Orleans Jazz. Gordon is a former veteran member of the Wynton Marsalis Septet, Lincoln Center Jazz Orchestra and has extensive performance experience with many of the most renowned jazz performers of the past and present. This concert starts at 7 p.m. and ends by 9 p.m. so you’ll have plenty of time to ring in the New Year any way you please. $22-$94. Saenger Theatre, 118 S. Palafox Place, Pensacola. 7–9 p.m.

(850) 595-3880

New Year’s Day and warms up with good music and beverages. FREE. FloraBama Lounge & Oyster Bar, 17401 Perdido Key Drive, Pensacola. Noon.

(850) 492-0611 florabama.com

WINE WOMEN & SHOES KICK-OFF LUNCH JAN. 12 Enjoy an incredible lunch, sip elegant wines provided

by Pip and indulge in delectable desserts, a Wine Women & Shoes fashion preview, all of the must-have accessories of the season from Destin Jewelers, door prizes and raffle items, such as two round trip flights courtesy of Southern Airways Express, plus much more. Wine Women & Shoes benefits Sinfonia Gulf Coast and its music education programs throughout Okaloosa and Walton counties. $75.

Bijoux, 9375 U.S. Hwy. 98 W, Ste. 22, Miramar Beach. 11:30 a.m.

followed by lectures, panel discussions and a concert on Friday and Saturday.

Early bird tuition is $500.

Seaside, Florida.

DESTIN’S 7TH BAYOU, BAY & BEACH 5K RUN/ WALK, 10K & 15K JAN. 28 Run the streets of Destin and enjoy peek-a-boo water views! The 10K course is USA Track & Field-certified, and the 15K course is new to the event, which is sponsored

by Shoreline Church. 5K: $30–$35; 10K & 15K: $40– $50. Clement Taylor Park, 131 Calhoun Ave., Destin.

7:30 a.m.: 15K begins (2.5hour time limit); 8:30 a.m.: 5K/10K begins (2-hour time limit); 10:30 a.m.: Awards Ceremony. (850) 837-6241 destinbayoubaybeach.com

sinfoniagulfcoast.org

BEETHOVEN & BLUE JEANS JAN. 14 Put on your favorite blue jeans and come out for Pensacola Symphony’s annual Beethoven & Blue Jeans concert.

Pieces include Rossini’s William Tell Overture, De Falla’s Ritual Fire Dance, and Beethoven’s Piano Concerto No.4 featuring acclaimed guest artist Jon Nakamatsu.Saenger Theatre, 118 S. Palafox Place, Pensacola. 7:30 p.m.

BAYTOWNE COUNTDOWN 

calendar

DEC. 31

Join the senior fellows of the Future Symphony Institute in company, conversation and concert.

Reception on Thursday,

You don’t want to miss The Village of Baytowne Wharf’s end-of-year party.

Face painting and kids activities from 6–8 p.m.

Dance the night away and enjoy live bands and two breathtaking firework shows as they light up the sky over the lagoon at 8 p.m. and midnight.

6 p.m.–1 a.m. FREE. 9300 U.S. Hwy. 98, Miramar Beach. (866) 912-3224, sandestin.com/events

EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

December 2016–January 2017

pensacolasaenger.com

Visit pensacolasymphony.com.

POLAR BEAR DIP JAN. 1 The FloraBama Lounge on the Florida-Alabama state line on Perdido Key hosts this popular annual splash in the Gulf of Mexico.

Afterward, everyone joins in a Southern tradition of eating black-eyed peas on

BUILDING COMMUNITIES WITH MUSIC JAN. 26–28

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APRIL 27–30, 2017 Chan Cox of Wine World founded and launched South Walton Beaches Wine & Food Festival in 2013.

A best-in-class event in a world-class beach location makes South Walton Beaches Wine & Food Festival the premier wine and food event in the Southeast.

In addition to the incredible selection of more than 800 wines, South Walton Beaches Wine & Food Festival offers samplings of the world’s finest foods, including cheeses, olives, sushi, charcuterie and, of course, chocolates. The Savor South Walton Culinary Village encompasses a multitude of food tastings, food and wine pairings, and exclusive educational and entertaining seminars from noted industry experts and renowned chefs.

South Walton Beaches Wine & Food Festival benefits Destin Charity Wine Auction Foundation (DCWAF), which is named a Top 10 Wine Charity Auction by Wine Spectator magazine. Destin Wine Charity Auction Foundation supports children’s charities in Northwest Florida, including but not limited to: Children in Crisis, Sacred Heart Hospital of the Emerald Coast, Children’s Volunteer Health Network, Inc., Youth Village, Shelter House, Habitat for Humanity, Children’s Advocacy Center, Emerald Coast Autism Center, Horizons, Food for Thought, Opportunity, Inc., Pathways for Change, Boys and Girls Clubs of the Emerald Coast and AMIKids Emerald Coast.

Recent celebrity winemakers and celebrities include Mark Perrin of Chateau de Beaucastel, Christina Mariani-May of Banfi Vinters and Jean Charles Boisset of Boisset Collection and of course superstar chef Emeril Lagasse.

CELEBRITY CHEF SPOTLIGHT

YOSHI EDDINGS, Harbor Docks

harbordocks.blogspot.com/2013/08/our-beloved-yoshi.html Yoshi was born and raised in Tokyo and worked in her parent’s restaurant where her father trained her on the dishes, how to use a knife, how to sauté and how to use the grill. The small restaurant also had an in-house sushi chef who taught Yoshi the art of sushi making. After she married, Yoshi moved to Destin and began to work at Harbor Docks in 1988. Yoshi became the reason that Harbor Docks added sushi to its dominant seafood menu. She added a sushi bar to the restaurant and since trained sushi chefs in Destin and around the Southeast.

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[ WINE PROFILE [ ZENATO AMARONE 2011, $56.99, (BEST IN SHOW RED 2016) Produced from the best grapes of Costalunga held at St. Ambrose in the Valpolicella Classico zone, a land full of meanings, traditions and food and wine culture. After careful manual selection, the grapes are left to rest in the fruit cellar in small boxes and then gently pressed.

Depending on the vintage, between the last week of September and first of October, strictly manual harvesting takes place. The grapes, after harvesting and careful selection, are left to rest in the loft for a period ranging from three to four months in boxes, taking care of the spacing between cluster and cluster for the proper and best withering. Dried grapes are then crushed and macerated on the skins for 15–20 days at a temperature of 23–25 ° C. The new wine is aged in oak barrels for a minimum period of 36 months. zenato.it/amarone-classico-docg-valpolicella.html

CRISTINA MARIANI-MAY,

MORGAN DOUBLE L VINEYARD CHARDONNAY 2013, $41.99, (BEST IN SHOW WHITE 2016)

Castello Banfi

Located near the northern tip of the Santa Lucia Highlands AVA, the vineyard receives brisk afternoon breezes from nearby Monterey Bay. Northsouth vineyard row orientation allows for optimum sun exposure on the Highlands’ east-facing terraces.

The grapes were picked when the flavor and acid balance was optimal.

Hand-sorted grapes were gently pressed as whole clusters to yield the highest quality juice. The juice was fermented in French oak — 28% new and a combination of one- and two-year-old barrels. Complete malolactic fermentation and lees stirring was conducted to obtain the trademark “Morgan Balance”: creaminess with bright tropical fruit and minerality.

Floral, Fuji apple and walnut aromas are backed by sweet spice of lightly toasted oak. Tangerine, pear and apricot flavors are complemented by a touch of creaminess and elegant, bright acidity. One of the finest food wines, the Double L Chardonnay, will pair wonderfully with seafood and poultry dishes, as well as a buttery steak. morganwinery.com/?method=products.productDrilldown&productID=A5 9794F6-BB88-880A-E8BC-2AB3BDD478CA&originalMarketingURL=pro duct/2013-Double-L-Chardonnay-1-5L

CASTELLO BANFI POGGIO ALLE MURA ROSSO DI MONTALCINO 2013, $29.99 A bright red with raspberry, red berry and stone aromas and flavors. Medium body, light tannins and a fruity, crisp finish. Racy Rosso di Montalcino. Drink now. banfiwines.com/review/jamessuckling-com-castello-banfi-poggio-alle-murarosso-di-montalcino-2013/

SAVE THE DATE: APRIL 27–30, 2017

2014 AND 2016 CELEBRITY WINEMAKER

Banfiwines.com/person/ cristina-mariani-may Cristina Mariani-May is the family proprietor of the internationally renowned Castello Banfi vineyard estate in Montalcino, Tuscany, and co-CEO of Banfi Vintners, a leading U.S. importer of fine wines. The youngest daughter of Banfi Chairman Emeritus, John F. Mariani, Jr., Ms. Mariani-May, together with her cousin James Mariani, represents the third generation of family leadership in the company founded by their grandfather, John Mariani, Sr. in 1919. Soon after completing her studies at Georgetown University and Columbia University’s Graduate School of Business, Mariani-May joined Banfi in 1993.

A “pursuit of excellence” serves as a personal mantra for Mariani-May. It extends to every aspect of her work, in particular her family’s wines and nowhere more so than with the Brunellos for which Castello Banfi is renowned. Alone among producers of Brunello di Montalcino wines, Castello Banfi has conducted groundbreaking research aimed at defining and isolating the finest clones of the Sangiovese Grosso grape.

FOR WINEMAKER & CHEF PHOTOS: SOWALWINE.COM/WINEMAKERS advertisement

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SPECIAL PROMOTION

SOCIAL STUDIES Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation Celebrity Server Event SEPT. 9 This fun luncheon took place at Bonefish Grill in Destin, where 12 celebrity servers dressed up as their favorite storybook characters and competed for the titles of “Best Dressed” and “Most Money Raised.” Proceeds from the event benefitted the Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation’s “All Kinds of Art” education outreach program that helps children in Okaloosa and Walton counties.

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PHOTOS BY MATT ALGARIN

1 Allen French and Joe Capers 2 Brittany Matthews and Rebecca Job 3 Lisa Snuggs 3 Bob and Leah McGill

Eggs on the Beach

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SEPT. 24 The Third Annual Big Green Egg Eggfest BBQ Competition was held at Seascape Resort and celebrated delicious food prepared on the Big Green Egg smoker and grill. Cook teams created their favorite dishes while tasters voted for the best sample.

The event benefitted Fisher House of the Emerald Coast and also featured live music, cooking demonstrations and a charity raffle.

PHOTOS BY MATT ALGARIN

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1 Bob and Bonnie Perry ​ 2 Jeff Weller, Byron Massey, Kevin Louthain and Nate Smith 3 Pat Embree, Tim Creehan, Lucy Buffett and Susan Benton 3 Kate Kelley with Greg and Keri Atchley

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SOCIAL STUDIES Bloody Mary Festival OCT. 1 A bloody good time was had by all at the second annual Bloody Mary Festival, benefiting Sinfonia Gulf Coast. Over 20 area restaurants and over 700 attendees came out to sample delicious Bloody Marys, enjoy a mimosa bar, craft beer and listen to live music.

Bud & Alley’s Restaurant took home the People’s Choice award, and the Judges’ Winner went to Bijoux Destin.

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PHOTOS BY JASON ELLIS OF 8 FIFTY PRODUCTIONS AND KAY PHELAN

1 Denise Harris, Kirk Williams, William Binford, Jack McGuckin and Leslie Levy 2 Reggie and Denise Reed 3 Stephanie Hill, Amy Coleman and Kira Kit 4 Joel Schenkman, Jessica Proffitt Bracken, Lexi Willcoxon and Chelsea Blaich

WEEKENDS DECEMBER 9 THRU 24 Performances will be at 560 Grand Blvd, upstairs.

Sponsored in part by the State of Florida, Department of State, Division of Cultural Affairs and the Florida Council on Arts and Culture

Tickets or info, call 850-684-0323 or visit

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SPECIAL PROMOTION

SOCIAL STUDIES Best of the Emerald Coast Winner’s Party

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OCT. 12

Winners of Best of the Emerald Coast honors for 2016 gathered at Brotula’s Seafood House & Steamer to receive their awards and mingle with fellow winners. Guests enjoyed delicious bites and bubbly while sharing their experience via a GIF booth by Epic Photo Co. The winner’s party was a chance to celebrate and prep for the big event, Best of the Emerald Coast, presented by Emerald Coast Magazine.

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PHOTOS BY AMBER SCHEEL

1 Tim Krueger, Jill Cadenhead and Mr. and Mrs. Michael Castleberry 2 Scott and Susan Gashaw

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3 Jill Johnson, Dr. David Adams, Jay Johnson, Darla Parker, PA-C 4 Suzanne Funicella and Susan Kiley 5 Lisa Morgan, Amy Turner and Kate Weathers 6 Louis Petit 7 Matt Butler and Matt Reynolds 8 Rich Suchevits and Wendy Morton 9 Pam Wellborn and Lorre Grimes James 10 Michael J. Thomas and Paul Phankasem

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PHOTO BY MIKE MANGUM

ADVERTORIAL

Restaurant Spotlight

Brotula's Seafood House and Steamer

Brotula’s Seafood House & Steamer is a locally owned and operated full-service restaurant located on the Historic Destin Harbor. The sister restaurant to Jackacudas Seafood & Sushi in HarborWalk Village, Brotula’s is the second concept established by longtime Destin locals, Tyler Jarvis and Chris Ruyan.

renovated 5,500+ squarefoot Fisherman’s Wharf building, offers lunch and dinner daily with indoor and outdoor dining options, live music and Sunday Brunch specials for diners to enjoy.

Focused on steamed and boiled seafood, dishes offer unique seasonings, flavored boiled waters and finishing

butters. The “Hook and Cook” program allows guests to bring in their catch from a day on the Gulf for Brotula’s to prepare. The menu also includes burgers made with Certified Angus Beef, Southern specialties, sandwiches, salads and other creative seafood entrees.

Brotula’s also features the Fish Trax program, a tracking program that monitors local

catches by tagging when and where the fish is caught.

This method ensures the restaurateurs’ fresh and local promise; and as an added bonus promotes the local fishing fleet. Located on land owned by the Destin Fishing Fleet coop, 33 local charter boats sit in the water directly behind the restaurant.

BROTULA'S SEAFOOD HOUSE AND STEAMER 210 HARBOR BLVD., DESTIN | 850.460.8900 | BROTULAS.COM

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PHOTOS BY PROFFITT PR

Brotula’s Seafood House and Steamer, located in the

dining guide AMERICAN

34940 Emerald Coast Pkwy., Destin.

850-837-1015. $ L D

LOUISIANA LAGNIAPPE ★

45 CENTRAL

Enjoy big wines and small plates in an intimate atmosphere. Open daily 11 a.m.– midnight. 45 Central Square, Seaside, 850-231-4545. $$ L D

A taste of New Orleans hits the coast through Louisiana-style favorites like shrimp and grits and Cajun seafood gumbo. Open daily 5 p.m. 775 Gulf Shore Dr., Destin. (850) 837-0881. $$ D

THE BEACH HOUSE

MAGNOLIA GRILL

Casual beach front dining. Open daily 11 a.m.–10 p.m. 4009 S. Sandestin Blvd., Miramar Beach. 850-267-4800. $$ L D

BUFFALO’S REEF ★

Hot wings and cold beer. Tue–Sat open at 10:30 a.m., Sun open at noon.

116 Eglin Pkwy., Fort Walton Beach.

850-243-9463. $ L D

CALLAHAN’S RESTAURANT & DELI Great sandwiches, seafood specials and prime rib. Mon–Sat 10 a.m.–10 p.m.

791 Harbor Blvd., Destin. 850-837-6328. $L D

THE CRAFT BAR ★

Craft brews on tap along with artisan cocktails and elevated bar fare. Open daily 11 a.m.–12 a.m. 4424 Commons Dr., Destin.

Also in Grayton Beach and Pensacola.

850-460-7907. $$ L D

CUVEE DESTIN & CUVEE 30A ★

Classic Italian, French and Asian influenced dishes. Open daily 5:30-10 p.m.

36120 Emerald Coast Pkwy. W. Destin. (Also at 30Avenue, 12805 Highway 98 in Inlet Beach.) 850-650-8900. $$$ D

FIREFLY ★

Fresh Gulf seafood, steak, artisan pizzas and signature cocktails. Open daily at 4 p.m. 535 Richard Jackson Pkwy., Panama City Beach. 850-249-3359. $$$ D

Steak, seafood, pasta, soups, salads and desserts. Lunch Mon–Fri 11 a.m.–2 p.m.

Dinner Mon–Sat, open at 5 p.m. Closed Sun. 157 SE Brooks St., Fort Walton Beach.

850-302-0266. $$ L D

MARIE’S BISTRO & BAR ★

Seafood, steak, pasta and sushi. Serving lunch 11 a.m.–2 p.m., Tues–Fri and dinner at 5 p.m. Tues–Sun. 2260 W. County Highway 30A, Blue Mountain Beach. 850-278-6856. $$ L D

MARINA BAR AND GRILL

Seafood, po’boys, burgers and salads.

Open daily 11 a.m.–7 p.m., Breakfast Sat–Sun 8–11 a.m. Kitchen closed Mon–Tue. Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort, 9300 Emerald Coast Pkwy. W., Miramar Beach. 850-267-7778.

MARINA CAFÉ

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

JOHN WEHNER’S VILLAGE DOOR BAYFRONT RESTAURANT & NIGHTCLUB ★

Dinner and dancing. Serving barbecue and seafood daily 5–9 p.m. The Village of Baytowne Wharf, 126 Fisherman’s Cove, Miramar Beach. 850-502-4590. $$ D

JOHNNY O’QUIGLEY’S

Steak, seafood and barbecue. Mon–Thu 11 a.m.–midnight, Fri–Sun 11 a.m.–1 a.m.

THE KEY ★ Best of the

Emerald Coast 2016 Winner

Chef-inspired twists on classic dishes.

Breakfast, lunch, dinner or cocktail. Open daily 7 a.m.–2 p.m. Tiki Bar open noon to sunset. Linkside Conference Center, 158 Sandestin Blvd. N., Miramar Beach.

850-267-7108. $ B L

VIN’TIJ WINE BOUTIQUE & BISTRO Seafood, salad, chef specials. Open daily 11 a.m.–midnight. 10859 W. Emerald Coast Pkwy., Suite 103, Miramar Beach.

850-650-9820. $$ L D

ASIAN BASMATI’S ASIAN CUISINE & SUSHI

Asian dishes and full sushi bar. Open 4 p.m.

The restaurants that appear in this guide are included as a service to readers and not as recommendations of the Emerald Coast Magazine editorial department, except where noted.

B L D

Breakfast Lunch Dinner

www.magnoliagrillfwb.com bridal luncheons • wedding rehearsals unique receptions

THE RED BAR ★

SUNSET BAY CAFÉ ★

Waterfront restaurant serving burgers, salads, seafood and brunch daily. Open Mon– Wed 11 a.m.–9 p.m., Thu–Sat 11 a.m.–10 p.m., and Sun 10 a.m.–9 p.m. 997 S. Palafox St., Pensacola. 850-432-5226. $$ L D

(850) 302-0266

Serving a wide variety of seafood, steaks and flatbreads by the waterfront. Open daily for lunch and dinner from 11 a.m.– 9 p.m. 455 W. Main St., Pensacola.

850-912-8775. $$ L D

$$ L D

JACO’S BAYFRONT BAR & GRILLE

tom & peggy rice, proprietors

NICK’S BOATHOUSE

GEORGE’S AT ALYS BEACH

fort walton beach

$B L D

Enjoy live music and dine on a menu of varied options ranging from pastas, seafood, salads and cocktails. Lunch and dinner daily. 11 a.m.–10 p.m. 70 Hotz Ave., Grayton Beach. (850) 231-1008. $ L D

Seafood, burgers and sandwiches. Open daily 11 a.m.–3 p.m. and 5–9 p.m. 30 Castle Harbour Dr., Alys Beach. 850-641-0017.

Magnolia Grill

Outdoor Dining Live Music $ Inexpensive

$$ Moderately

Expensive

$$$ Expensive

The Tradition Continues Best Italian 2013, 2014, 2015 Best Restaurant Okaloosa County 2013, 2014, 2016 Best Service, Food & Beverage 2015

Best Brunch 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015

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

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daily. 3295 W. Hwy. 30A, Santa Rosa Beach.

850-267-3028. $$ D

JASMINE THAI ★

The Emerald Coast’s Only AAA Four-Diamond Steakhouse

Traditional dishes in a contemporary atmosphere. Lunch: Tue–Sun 11 a.m.– 3 p.m. Dinner: Tue–Sun 5–9 p.m.

4463 Common Drive W., Ste. 108, Destin.

850-460-7780. $$ L D

OSAKA ★

Known for its sushi but serves a variety of dishes, including chicken, steak and seafood.

Lunch 11 a.m.–2:30 p.m., Dinner 5–10:30 p.m.

34845 Emerald Coast Pkwy., Destin.

850-650-4688 or 850-650-4689. $$ L D

YIOTA’S GREEK DELI

Traditional greek food made from family recipes. Order at counter. 10 a.m.–5 p.m.

130 E. Miracle Strip Pkwy., Mary Esther.

850-302-0691. $ L

DESSERT BRUSTERS ★

Ice cream selections are made fresh on-site daily. Noon–7:00 p.m. 4655 Gulfstar Drive, Destin. 850-269-2920. $

THAI DELIGHT

Traditional dishes in a casual atmosphere.

Open daily 11 a.m.–9 p.m., 821 Harbor Blvd., Destin. 850-650-3945. $$ L D

BBQ 98 BAR-B-QUE

Award-winning barbeque, gumbo, sandwiches, salads in a casual atmosphere.

Dine in, take out, catering. Mon–Sat 11 a.m.–8 p.m. 5008 Highway 98, Santa Rosa Beach. 850-622-0679. $ L D

BUCK’S SMOKEHOUSE ★

Brisket, ribs and pulled pork sandwiches and plates in a casual, rustic atmosphere.

Open daily 11 a.m.–8 p.m. 303 Harbor Blvd., Destin. 850-837-3600. $ L D

French pastries, croissants, crusty breads, soup, salads and sandwiches served.

7:30 a.m.–5:30 p.m. Mon–Fri, Sat 7:30 a.m.– 2 p.m. Closed Sun. 420 Mary Esther Cutoff, Fort Walton Beach. 850-244-2848. $ B L

DONUT HOLE BAKERY CAFE ★

Eat breakfast all day with fresh-baked donuts and hearty comfort food. Open daily 6 a.m.–10 p.m. 635 Harbor Blvd., Destin.

850-837-8824. $ B

MAMA CLEMENZA’S EUROPEAN BREAKFAST ★

Award-winning breakfast. Old World family recipes. Brunch Wed–Sun 8 a.m.–1 p.m., Seasonal Hours Memorial Day to Labor day Mon–Sun 8 a.m.–1 p.m. Holiday Plaza, 12273 Emerald Coast Pkwy. W, Destin.

850-424-3157. $$ B

Seagars.com

GREEK AEGEAN RESTAURANT ★

Authentic Greek restaurant. Breakfast 8–11 a.m., Lunch 11 a.m.–4 p.m., Dinner 4–9 p.m. 11225 Emerald Coast Pkwy., Miramar Beach (and Shalimar). 850-460-2728. $$ B L D

ALA BABA GRILL CAFÉ

Casual spot for familiar Turkish and Greek recipes offered à la carte and at a buffet, plus beer and wine. 10 a.m.–9 p.m. 550 Mary Esther Cutoff, Fort Walton Beach. 850-986-5555. $ L D

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Burgers and pub grub and the famous 18-cent Senate Bean Soup. Open daily 11 a.m.–2 a.m. 33 Highway 98, Destin.

(Also in Pensacola). 850-650-0000. $$ L D

ITALIAN/PIZZA

CLEMENZA’S UPTOWN ★

BON APPETIT FRENCH BAKERY & CAFÉ

4000 Sandestin Blvd. South, Miramar Beach, FL 32250

MCGUIRE’S IRISH PUB ★

BREAKFAST/ BRUNCH/BAKERY Breakfast all day, plus sandwiches, patty melts, specials, soups, salads and desserts. Open daily 7 a.m.–2 p.m. Closed Mondays. 979 E. Highway 98, Suite F, Destin. (Also in Miramar Beach, Panama City, Pensacola, Sandestin and Grayton Beach) 850-650-0499. $ B

HIlton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa

Easygoing pub providing Irish and American eats, a game room for kids and deck seating. 11 a.m.–2 a.m. 2298 Scenic Highway 30A, Blue Mountain Beach.

850-267-0101. $$ L D

ANGELINA’S PIZZA & PASTA

ANOTHER BROKEN EGG CAFÉ ★

8 5 0 - 6 2 2-1 5 0 0

JOHNNNY MCTIGHE’S IRISH PUB

JIM ’N NICK’S BAR-B-Q ★

Smokehouse barbecue, beer and wine.

Open daily 11 a.m. 14073 Emerald Coast Pkwy., Destin. 850-351-1991. $ L D

RESERVATIONS

IRISH

Authentic homemade pizza pie and Italian dishes in a casual atmosphere.

Lunch and dinner daily: 11 a.m.–9:30 p.m.

4005 E. Hwy. 30A, Seagrove Beach.

850-231-2500. $ B L D Classic Italian. Wood-fired pizza. Private dining. Cooking school. Multiple award winner. Open Mon-Fri for lunch, Mon-Sat for dinner. 75 Eglin Pkwy., Fort Walton Beach. 850-243-0707. $$ B L D

FAT CLEMENZA’S ★

Classic Italian. Wood-fired pizza, specialty desserts, fish Fridays. Multiple award winner. Lunch Mon-Fri Dinner Mon-Sat 5-9 p.m. Holiday Plaza/Hwy. 98, Miramar Beach. 850-650-5980 $$ L D

GRAFFITI

Traditional Italian house specialties like seafood pizza. Mon–Thu 5–9 p.m., Fri–Sat 5–10 p.m. 707 E. Hwy. 98, Destin.

850-654-2764. $$ D

HELEN BACK

Pizza and cold beer in a sports bar atmosphere. Locations in Pensacola, Navarre, Crestview and Valparaiso. Open daily 11 a.m.–4 a.m. 114 Amberjack Dr., Fort Walton Beach. 850-796-1451. $ L D

MIMMO’S RISTORANTE ITALIANO ★

Italian dishes. Open Mon–Fri 11 a.m– 10 p.m., Sat–Sun 5–10 p.m. 979 Highway 98, Suite 5, Destin. 850-460-7353. $$ L D

THE PIZZA BAR AT BUD & ALLEY’S Artisan cheese, fresh salads, antipasto dishes, homemade soups, seasonal vegetables, hearty pastas and homemade wood-fired Neapolitan pizza. Open daily from 11 a.m. 2236 E. County Road 30A, Seaside. 850-231-3113. $$ L D

TRATTORIA BORAGO

Pork tenderloin or pan-seared grouper from the open kitchen. Open 6 p.m. daily. 80 E. Hwy. 30A, Grayton Beach. 850-231-9167. $$ D

TRADEWINDS

A cozy favorite among locals serving heaping portions from old family recipes.

Enjoy a number of pasta variations as well

SPECIAL PROMOTION

chefyi

Bryce Jarvis Owner, Sunset Bay Cafe

How would you describe the cuisine? Sunset Bay Cafe’s cuisine showcases a Southern twist on the traditional breakfast and lunch fare. We pride ourselves on serving dishes made with fresh produce and sustainable seafood, delivered daily from the docks in Destin, Florida.

What made you want to pursue this career? I fell into the service industry by accident. I was 17 and needed a job and that ended up being

What is your philosophy? I focus on attempting to be as flawless as possible in operations and with my staff. We try to get everything as close to flawless as we can and to produce the best experience for everyone.

What is the most important item in the kitchen? The most 158 Sandestin Blvd. N. important item in the Miramar Beach kitchen and in the cafe is our (850) 267-7108 staff. Without our devoted sunsetbaycafedestin.com staff, none of this would be possible. I have been blessed with a fantastic crew that truly enjoys taking great care of the guests and the cafe.

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How do you measure your success? Our success is 100% measured by customer satisfaction.

There is nothing that says you are doing a good job like having guests return time and time again to enjoy your dishes. Regular guests are the bread and butter of any restaurant, and we are blessed to have some of the best regulars.

in banquet setup. I fell in love with the service industry from there and couldn’t imagine doing anything other than feeding people and making them happy.

ALISSA ARYN PHOTOGRAPHY

What is your favorite dish and why? Easily the Hillbilly Benedict.

The combination of unique flavors forms one great dish with panko fried cheese grits in place of an English muffin, topped with a perfectly poached egg, housemade Hollandaise and the pièce de résistance fried chicken.​

#localsservinglocals @jackacudas #jackacudas 8 5 0

APPETIZER Harborwalk Village Destin, FL

Eat Local

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O n si te

Ca te r i n g

Marie’s Bistro - on 30a!

Lunch • Dinner • Sunday Brunch • Live Music • Happy Hour Drive-Thru • Catering • Events • Ask about our Locals Card

MariesBistro.com · 850.278.6856 2260 W Hwy 30A, Blue Mountain Beach

Capt.on Dave’s the

Gulf

Casual Gulf Front Dining The locals’ favorite since 1968!

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SERVING LOCAL FLORIDA SEAFOOD AND STEAKS Dinner 4pm UNTIL …

For more information visit captdavesonthegulf.com Enjoy cocktails on the deck for sunset Daily Happy Hour: 4–6pm Live Music

3796 Scenic Hwy 98, Destin 850.837.2627 captdavesonthegulf.com

as seafood, chicken, veal, steak and thin crust pizza. Expansive wine and beer list.

Reservations required. Open Tue–Sat 5 p.m. 205 Government St., Valparaiso.

850-678-8299. $$ D

TUSCANY ITALIAN BISTRO

Northern Italian cuisine meats, fresh seafood and garden vegetables. Tues–Sun 4 p.m.–close. 36178 Emerald Coast Pkwy., Destin. 850-650-2451. $$ D

MEXICAN CANTINA LAREDO ★

A gourmet twist on Mexican favorites.

Sun–Thu 11 a.m.–10 p.m., Fri–Sat 11 a.m.– 11 p.m. 585 Grand Blvd., Miramar Beach.

850-654-5649. $$ B L D

HARBOR DOCKS ★

A surf-and-turf restaurant. Breakfast, lunch and dinner and the best sushi on the Emerald Coast. Open daily 5 a.m.–11 p.m.

538 E. Hwy. 98, Destin. 850-837-2506. $$ B L D

HARRY T’S ★

American and seafood spot set in a roomy waterfront space stuffed with circus memorabilia. Mon–Thu 11 a.m.–10 p.m., Fri–Sat 11 a.m.–11 p.m., Sun 10 a.m.–10 p.m.

46 Harbor Blvd., Destin. 850-654-4800. $$ B L D

HIGH TIDE RESTAURANT & OYSTER BAR ★

Casual eatery featuring an oyster bar. Open daily 11 a.m.–9:30 p.m. 1203 Miracle Strip Pkwy.

SE, Fort Walton Beach. 850-244-2124. $$ L D

CRAB ISLAND CANTINA

JACKACUDA’S SEAFOOD & SUSHI

Latin-inspired Mexican cuisine. Mon–Thu 11 a.m.–10 p.m., Fri–Sat 11 a.m.–11 p.m., Sun 11 a.m.–9 p.m. 2 Harbor Blvd., Destin.

850-424-7417. $$ L D

Seafood, sushi, salad and sandwiches. Open daily from 11 a.m. Sunday brunch at 10 a.m.

56 Harbor Blvd., HarborWalk Village, Destin.

850-424-3507. $$ L D

PEPITO’S ★

POPPY’S SEAFOOD FACTORY

Authentic Mexican cuisine, delicious margaritas and weekly specials. Open daily 11 a.m.–10 p.m. 11225 Hwy. 98, Destin, Niceville, Miramar Beach. 850-269-7788. $$ L D

THE TACO BAR AT BUD & ALLEY’S Baja fish tacos, homemade guacamole, burritos and top-shelf margaritas. Open daily from 11 a.m. (in season). 2236 E. Country Road 30A, Seaside. 850-231-4781. $$ L D

SEAFOOD BOATHOUSE OYSTER BAR ★

Ice cold beer, raw oysters, award-winning gumbo. Open daily 11 a.m.–2 a.m. 288 B Harbor Blvd., Destin. 850-837-3645. L D

BOSHAMPS SEAFOOD & OYSTER HOUSE ★

Gulf-to-table Southern cuisine.

Open daily at 11 a.m. 414 Harbor Blvd., Destin. 850-424-7406. $$ L D

BROTULA’S SEAFOOD HOUSE & STEAMER ★

Fresh steamed and boiled seafood dishes.

Open daily for lunch, dinner and Sunday brunch. Destin Harbor, Destin.

850-460-8900. $$$ B

BUD & ALLEY’S WATERFRONT RESTAURANT

Sea-to-table dining serving fresh seafood, steak and vegetarian dishes. Open 11:30 a.m.

Mon–Fri. Roof bar open 11:30 p.m.–2 a.m. in summer. 2236 E. Hwy. 30A, Seaside.

850-231-5900. $$$ L D

DEWEY DESTIN’S HARBORSIDE ★

Award-winning seafood in a quaint house.

Open daily 11 a.m.– 8 p.m. 202 Harbor Blvd., Destin. 850-837-7525. $$$ L D

DEWEY DESTIN SEAFOOD RESTAURANT & MARKET ★

Outdoor setting, fresh seafood. Open 11 a.m.–8 p.m. 9 Calhoun Ave., Destin.

850-837-7575. $$ B L D

THE FISH HOUSE ★

Fresh seafood cuisine and Southern specialties in a setting overlooking Pensacola Bay and the Seville Harbor. Open daily 11 a.m. 600 S. Barracks St., Pensacola.

850-470-0003. $$ L D

FISH OUT OF WATER RESTAURANT Southern coastal cuisine with an Asian flair.

5:30–10 p.m. daily. Located in the WaterColor Inn, Santa Rosa Beach. 850-534-5050. $$$ D

Fresh seafood, steak and poultry dishes.

Open 11 a.m.–9 p.m. daily. The Village of Baytowne Wharf, Miramar Beach.

850-351-1996. $$$ L D

TAKE OUT DESTIN ICE SEAFOOD MARKET & DELI ★

Fresh fish and seafood items, pastas, salads and side dishes, Buckhead meats, decadent deserts, wines, cheeses, spices and more.

Open daily 8 a.m.–7 p.m. 663 Emerald Coast Pkwy, Destin. 850-837-8333. $$ L D

SARAH K’S GOURMET ★

Ready-to-heat cuisine. Jumbo lump crab cakes and fresh chicken salad. Open at 11 a.m.

34940 Hwy. 98, Destin. 850-269-0044. $ L D

WENDY’S KITCHEN

Homemade meals from Wendy’s kitchen to your table. Comfort food, casseroles.

11 a.m.–6 p.m. Mon–Fri. 14091 Emerald Coast Pkwy., Destin. 850-837-8837. L D

STEAK & SEAFOOD BIJOUX RESTAURANT & SPIRITS ★ Fine dining coastal cuisine with a New Orleans flair, Gulf seafood, prime steaks.

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

JACKSON’S STEAKHOUSE

High-end steakhouse cuisine with fine wines. Local seafood is hand-selected and artistically prepared to perfection. Open Tue–Sat for dinner 5:30 p.m.–10:30 p.m.

Open Tue–Fri for lunch 11 a.m.–2 p.m. 400 S. Palafox St., Pensacola. 850-469-9898. $$$ D

MARLIN GRILL ★

Seafood, steaks, salads and appetizers.

Open nightly at 5 p.m. The Village of Baytowne Wharf, Miramar Beach. 850-351-1990. $$$ D

RUTH’S CHRIS STEAK HOUSE ★

Steak and seafood. New Orleans-inspired.

Mon–Sat 5:30–10 p.m., Sun 5:30–9 p.m.

Silver Shells Resort. 1500 Emerald Coast Pkwy., Destin. 850-337-5108. $$$ D

SEAGAR’S PRIME STEAKS AND SEAFOOD ★

Premium steak, fresh seafood and caviar.

Open 6 p.m. daily. Hilton Sandestin.

4000 S. Sandestin Blvd., Miramar Beach.

850-622-1500. $$$ D EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

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postscript

TALES OF THE UNSUNG BUMBLES

Where were the other abominable snow monsters during Rudolph’s epic 1964 journey?

R

udolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer had his hooves full facing down the mighty “Abominable Snow Monster of the North,” a fiend from the darkest reaches of the icy wilderness. But if we stop and think about it, the monster couldn’t have been working alone. Let’s explore this.

In the 1964 Rankin/Bass Christmas special, a rejected and distraught but strongwilled Rudolph runs away from home to find fame and fortune. Along the way he encounters another misfit, Hermey the Elf, who convinces the deer that they should be “independent together.” Their small confederacy is soon expanded with the addition of Yukon Cornelius, a burly, bearded prospector who offers significant tactical advantages in transportation (dog sled), supplies (ham hocks, gun powder and guitar strings) and weaponry (note the stag-handled .45 stashed in his belt).

By the time Rudy and Hermey meet Yukon, they’ve already crossed paths with the snow monster and are desperately trying to evade him. However, Rudy’s glowing red nose constantly signals their position and significantly impedes stealth. Yukon discovers the pair hiding in a snow bank and offers to let them tag along with him on his journey to the gold (or silver) fields (“I changed my mind!”). Introductions are cut short though as the snow monster comes roaring out of nowhere and begins advancing upon the trio.

Yukon calls the monster a “bumble.”

And apparently he’s had his share of encounters with the beast. He’s familiar with its frightening roar (“If there’s one thing I can’t stand it’s a noisy bumble!”) and he knows the bumble’s one weakness

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(he can’t swim). But what’s most telling is what Yukon reveals at the end of the story: “Didn’t I ever tell you? Bumbles bounce!”

Bumbles. As in, there’s more than one.

We have to assume there’s a population of bumbles around there somewhere. The question is why don’t we see them? I submit that we actually do. Consider the following.

Bumbles are apex predators that measure a good 12 feet in height and weigh about a ton (possibly more). We know they scale mountains fairly easily but are slow in open country and can’t track zig-zagging targets very well. These weaknesses would suggest that bumbles are ambush predators, and there is evidence of this during the course of the story. And while some megafauna predators lead solitary lives, chances are good that bumbles do not. As primates, bumbles most likely live in familial troops and may even cooperate to gather food. Inasmuch as they need massive caloric intake to sustain themselves, they probably hunt in dispersed packs to maximize the area covered. But when prey is spotted, they form ranks to either attack or give chase. The ultimate goal is to push their exhausted prey into a kill box.

In order for the bumbles to conserve their own precious energy during the hunt, I would say that they attack one at a time on a rotational basis; i.e., one gives chase while the others rest or go on ahead to set the trap. When the first one tires, another takes his place. And that is what we’re seeing on T.V. Instead of one solitary bumble always on the attack, we’re actually seeing different bumbles in each

chase scene. I point to the lair scene as indirect proof of this hypothesis. When Rudolph and company are in the bumble lair, and the creature is gloating over them, the question is asked, “Why doesn’t he just get it over with?” It’s as if he’s waiting for something. If the theory of pack hunting is correct, then this bumble is merely in charge of keeping the group corralled until the others can arrive. As it turns out, the reindeer are rescued before the rest of the bumble pack shows up. Ultimately, the lair bumble is humbled by his failure to secure the feast, and, knowing he can’t go home again, seeks asylum in Christmastown as the ultimate misfit.

So, just how many bumbles do we actually see? I count four. The very first encounter happens when Donner is teaching Rudolph how to hide from bumbles.

The second one we see is after Rudy and Hermey have started their journey together and are surprised by a scout bumble screaming from the nearby mountain range. A third bumble actively chases Rudy, Hermey and Yukon. The fourth bumble we see is the cave bumble at the end. However, there are probably more we don’t see but are alluded to. These are encountered during the interval of time between Rudy’s escape from the Island of Misfit Toys and his return to Christmastown. Sam the Snowman’s testimony states that the bumble(s) kept Rudy on the run for most of that time. This would indicate he was hunted intermittently by an unknown number of bumbles off-screen, but he escaped each time. Rudy’s family, however, wasn’t so lucky, and wound up falling into their clutches instead. EC

ILLUSTRATION BY CHARLES BAKOFSKY

by JASON DEHART

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