Emerald Coast Magazine- December/January 2015

+

HOLIDAY SPICE The gorgeous governor’s mansion plus inspiration galore in our gift guide

THE EMER ALD COAST MAGA ZINE

NEW YEAR, NEW YOU Expert help to shape up your mind and body CHAMPAGNE! Hear, hear for getting into the holiday spirit SINGING PRAISES Sinfonia Turns 10!

HOT

MUSIC FESTIVALS

A Fan’s Guide to the Greatest Shows in Northwest Florida

Award-Winning Artist Sam Hunt at Gulf Coast Jam

Let us bring your vision to life.

E.F. San Juan, a multi-generation family business, produces custom mouldings and millwork that distinguish and define your dream home. Unique, inspirational, uncompromising. – E.F. San Juan

efsanjuan.com | (850) 722-4830

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM December 2015–January 2016

3

Coastal living

Free Design Services

Outdoor 11224 US Hwy 98 Miramar Beach, FL 32550 850.424.3969 Virtual Tour 4 December 2015–January 2016

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM

tuskershomestore.com

The Emerald Coast Magazine December 2015 + January 2016

contents

F EAT URES

52

Music Festivals

The EC does not miss a beat when it comes to celebrating music.

BY ZANDRA WOLFGRAM

66 The Green Machine Meet Ron Green, the EC’s formidable franchise king.

PHOTO BY COLLEEN DUFFLEY PRODUCTIONS

BY CHAY D. BAXLEY

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM December 2015–January 2016

5

contents

in the e.c.

19 Snapshot Torrence Hart launches a creative business that’s “inside the box.”

20 Chat Sherri Williams has the secret recipe for reality TV show success.

24 Champions Meet two driven Emerald Coasters whose passion is central to their purpose.

29 Historicity A look back at Florida on the auction block.

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

happenings 35 Spotlight Hundreds of singer/songwriters tune in to Scenic Highway 30A in January.

24

42 Calendar Warm up your winter with fun festivals and fetes.

44 Social Studies Look who we spotted out and about on the EC scene.

the good life 75 Eudaimonia This is surely the best thing to hit the block in Baker.

76 Going Places Cruise into the new year with these travel tips.

80 Mind + Body Going gray is well, the natural thing to do … for all ages.

89 Gardening We pull out the stops on killing cool weather weeds.

100 Habitat We go home for the holidays with First Lady Ann Scott.

106 Flavor Here’s to making sparkling celebrations.

100

110 On the Menu By land or sea, the EC serves up delicious must-do eats.

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

116 A Taste For … Sweet substitutes.

A WORD WITH YOU

83

10 12 16 122

From the Publisher Editor’s Note Feedback The Last Word

SPECIAL SECTIONS 72 Gift Guide 83 Health and Fitness 92 Deal Estate

110 6 December 2015–January 2016

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM

Follow us @emeraldcoastmag

Like us at facebook.com/emeraldcoast

PHOTOS BY LAWRENCE DAVIDSON (83), HOLLY GARDNER (24), CHASE YAKABOSKI (110) AND COURTESY OF GOVERNOR’S MANSION FOUNDATION/RAY STANYARD (100)

36 Culture Sinfonia Gulf Coast is 10!

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM December 2015–January 2016

7

VOL. 16, NO. 6 DECEMBER 2015–JANUARY 2016 THE EMERALD COAST MAGAZINE

PRESIDENT/PUBLISHER

BRIAN E. ROWLAND EDITORIAL DIRECTOR OF EDITORIAL SERVICES Steve Bornhoft EDITOR Zandra Wolfgram SENIOR STAFF WRITER Jason Dehart STAFF WRITER Chay D. Baxley CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Stacey May Brady, Leanne Castro, Lynne R. Christen, Wendy O. Dixon, Casey Feindt, Karen Granger, Jennifer Howard, Jennifer Ireland, Christy Kearney, William L. Needham, Rebecca Padgett, Audrey Post, Liesel Schmidt EDITORIAL INTERNS Casey Feindt, Kiyo Kawaguchi, Paige Sneed, Arianna Theofan PRODUCTION SPECIALIST Melinda Lanigan COPY EDITOR Barry Ray

CREATIVE CREATIVE DIRECTOR Lawrence Davidson PRODUCTION MANAGER/ NETWORK ADMINISTRATOR Daniel Vitter SENIOR ART DIRECTOR Saige Roberts ART DIRECTOR Jennifer Ekrut PUBLICATION DESIGNERS Shruti Shah, Rebecca Taylor ADVERTISING DESIGNERS Jillian Fry, Amanda Hartsfield CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Michael Broadway, Lawrence Davidson, Colleen Duffley Productions, Jennifer G. Photography, Holly Gardner, Michael Granberry, Scott Holstein, Lilly & Sparrow, Anders Krusberg, David McClister, Rhonda Murray, Kay Phelan, Kansas Pitts Photography, Pure7 Studios, Ray Stanyard, Shelly Swanger, Jacqueline Ward Images, Zandra Wolfgram, Chase Yakabowski, Allison Yii

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

OPERATIONS CORPORATE CLIENT LIAISON Sara Goldfarb STAFF ACCOUNTANT Robin Ballard ADMINISTRATIVE AND HUMAN RESOURCE LIAISON Caryn Nelson RECEPTIONIST Lisa Snell

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

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

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

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

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

8 December 2015–January 2016

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM December 2015–January 2016

9

from the publisher

It’s early October as I write this and tomorrow the annual Gulf Power Symposium will be underway. The theme for this year’s meeting is “Think Big,” and that is precisely what the entire Rowland Publishing staff is doing these days.

Having spent practically my entire professional life in the world of media, I am intimately familiar with change and change processes. They are fundamental to my personal and business philosophy and to my ongoing quest to succeed in all that Rowland Publishing does. I believe that if a company and the people who comprise it do not continuously change and evolve, market share will decline and failure will eventually happen.

Some recent changes in the staffing of our editorial department have resulted in a unique opportunity for Rowland Publishing to change the way we gather information and images, deliver them to you in our publications and fundamentally do the business of processing the editorial function.

We will be eliminating the duplication of efforts, streamlining our processes and affording people an opportunity to focus on what they do best. Our talented team of staff and freelance writers will be called upon to write more stories, and our management team will work with them to maximize their contributions to our titles.

By becoming more efficient, we will enjoy three important and very welcome outcomes. One, we will deliver even stronger content that our readers and advertisers so well deserve. Two, the production processes of more than 50 editions of magazines that currently make up our portfolio will tighten up even more. Three, we will increase our capacity to take on more client projects, thus deepening our commitment to the communities we love to serve.

Like I say, we’re thinking big and setting up our new systems to bring about our big plans.

Now, let me address changes you will be seeing in EC Magazine.

EC Magazine was the first consumer lifestyle magazine established along the Emerald Coast of Northwest Florida with the first edition rolling off the presses 15 years ago. To remain the market leader, it’s always healthy to evolve with an eye to national industry trends. Our review this year of city magazines from around the country — Boston, Sacramento, Chicago and Austin, to name a few — has led me to conclude that the time for meaningful change is now. It’s been five years since we last redesigned our magazines, and we’re ready.

So, I have challenged myself, our editorial director, Steve Bornhoft and our creative director Larry Davidson and his highly talented publication design specialists to overhaul our magazine with a new approach to be introduced this spring. In so doing, we will incorporate the best aspects of city magazines from around the country after customizing them to suit our new and unique presentation of EC Magazine.

At the same time, we will challenge our advertisers to place attractive “brand” advertising versus product-and-price advertising in our publications. We will be pleased to supply them with complimentary creative services to support them and ensure their success in this regard.

With the redesign, the magazine will see a change in the stock we use for our covers. The page size in EC Magazine will enlarged and so, too, will its direct-mail circulation footprint. We will now reach high-income households in Pensacola and Panama City to truly reach the entire Emerald Coast and live up to the magazine’s name.

So, get ready for exciting new developments and meanwhile know that we will never stray from our mission of providing our readers with publications that are current, quotable and well read.

SCOTT HOLSTEIN

At Rowland Publishing, We’re Thinking Big and Changing

on the cover

Georgia-born Sam Hunt helped bring country to the coast over Labor Day weekend 2015 during the Pepsi Gulf Coast Jam in Panama City Beach. Santa Rosa Beach photographer Kansas Pitts captured the 30-year-old singersongwriter feeling the beat while on stage before a sold-out crowd. This warm, raw shot places us on stage in the moment alongside Sam Hunt, proving what the thousands who flocked to Frank Brown Park already knew: country is cool.

+

HOLIDAY SPICE The gorgeous governor’s mansion plus inspiration galore in our gift guide

THE EMER ALD COAST MAGA ZINE

NEW YEAR, NEW YOU Expert help to shape up your mind and body CHAMPAGNE! Hear, hear for getting into the holiday spirit

— BRIAN ROWLAND BROWLAND@ROWLANDPUBLISHING.COM

SINGING PRAISES Sinfonia Turns 10!

HOT

MUSIC FESTIVALS

10 December 2015–January 2016

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM

A Fan’s Guide to the Greatest Shows in Northwest Florida

Award-Winning Artist Sam Hunt at Gulf Coast Jam

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM December 2015–January 2016

11

editor’s note editor’s picks One of the first things I bought with my first pocketful of babysitting money was my first album. It was “The Game” by Queen. I think our high school cheerleading squad nailed a district competition with a well-timed back flip landing to “Another One Bites the Dust.”

(Good job, Noelle Hodge, wherever you are!)

You won’t be surprised to learn at this point that Queen was my first concert. It was during the ’80s, so that right there tells you it was a big time … and that was just my hair. I was mesmerized by Freddie Mercury’s powerful voice and larger-than-life stage presence. Who wasn’t? Fast forward a few decades and all three of our kids — ages 11 to 23 — say that Queen tops their list of favorite bands. Queen is a classic band that stands the test of time. When a legendary band like Queen has something to say, we all listen …

One of our new profile stories for this issue is entitled “Champions Among Us.” So, naturally I’ve got Queen’s “We Are the Champions” humming in my head. And why not? This heartening story is deserving of its own soundtrack. It was written by Christy Kearney of Fort Walton Beach whose byline you may recognize from a few issues back.

Christy is a thoughtful writer and also a teacher and former principal, so as a champion of education in her own right, she was a perfect fit for this story.

“Champions” will be shared as a series of installments. This issue features the first two. Christy tells the stories of Emerald Coast residents who are driven to champion a cause, idea or dream — and in some cases, all of the above. I suspect that at some point these “champions” were themselves inspired by someone. And we hope hearing their stirring stories inspires you.

All of these individuals are passionate about living a purpose-driven life. In many cases, they choose to take the road less traveled. We are fortunate here on the EC to have so many amazing advocates taking the lead on important causes that run the gamut from the cultural arts to children’s rights.

You can join the ranks of this elite group and be a champion, too. It doesn’t mean having to give up your day job. You can be a champion every single day with the choices you make. By donating to a charity, by volunteering some time, by voicing a concern, by coming to the rescue in some way, by mentoring, by making a difference in someone’s day … and the list goes on. Essentially, just by caring enough to act on something important to you.

This time of year is a time of reflection and renewal — of taking stock of things, of taking care of things. What better time than now to become a champion — to become your best you? (And, as an added bonus feel free to belt out Queen hits — you have earned at least a few minutes of limelight.)

Recall how Freddie stirs us: “We are the champions, my friends. And we’ll keep on fighting till the end. No time for losers. ’Cause we are the champions.”

Rock on!

ALLISON YII

We Are the Champions

LIFE LESSONS It’s the time of year to snuggle up and watch old holiday movies. One of my favs is the 1946 timeless classic, “It’s a Wonderful Life,” starring Jimmy Stewart. Author Bob Welch has penned a book brimming with 52 “life lessons” based on the film. This 206-page paperback ($15.99) would make a great gift for any romantic and/ or movie buff in your life. After all, as Clarence the angel reminds us during our trip to Bedford Falls each holiday season, “No man is a failure who has friends.”

YIFTEE IS NIFTY ’Tis the season for giving. Don’t we all love anything that makes it easier? Yiftee (yiftee.com) is a gifting service that allows you to instantly send and receive gifts at local, big or online merchants via email, text or Facebook. Yiftee gifts are often small items — think manicure, accessories, latte, etc. — that the recipient picks up using a smartphone or tablet. The giftee simply takes his/her phone to the merchant, shows the digital credit card and gets the gift. How nifty!

Clarifications We congratulate

Newman-Daily Vacation Properties owned/operated by hospitality veteran Jeanne Dailey as the 2015 Best Of the Emerald Coast winner of the Vacation Rental Service/Company category.

Regretfully this esteemed winner did not appear in the “150 Reasons Why the Emerald Coast is the ‘Best’ ” story in the October/November issue and so we happily list them here: Best Of the Emerald Coast 2015 Winner VACATION RENTAL SERVICE/COMPANY

Newman-Dailey Resort Properties destinvacation.com | (850) 837-1071

— ZANDRA WOLFGRAM EC-EDITOR@ROWLANDPUBLISHING.COM

12 December 2015–January 2016

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM

Martha LaGuardia-Kotite is the talented writer who should have been credited with the Personality piece on rising tennis stars entitled “Will to Win” in the last issue.

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM December 2015–January 2016

13

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com 2015 Year in Review In 2015 we asked 150 locals what they loved about the EC, we dove underwater and smooth sailed along the shore, we met inspiring individuals who are coaches, business owners and families, we painted a picture of arts along the coast and much more. Take a look back at the inspiring and influential stories that EC Magazine brought forth in our year in review blog and photo gallery. bit.ly/1NqskNP +

All you need to know to bring an A-list celebrity home with you

THE EMER ALD COAST MAGA ZINE

BARE IT ALL WE COME CLEAN ABOUT THE LATEST TUB AND SHOWER TRENDS

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

Michael Chou reveals just how chance became a delicious dream

THE EMER ALD COAST MAGA ZINE

Just Dance!

These studios will put a kick in your step

BEST of

Rustic and Artsy Farmhouse Chic

Life Coaches

Learn to Sail, Surf and ... Snuba?

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

Getting to know some of the EC’s leading health care providers

A look inside Seaside’s ‘Stairway to Heaven’

We serve up 15 of our favorite sandwiches on the Coast

175+ Ways to Stay Cool

The best of weddings — from coast to city to country

THE EMER ALD COAST MAGA ZINE

NEW YEAR, NEW YOU Expert help to shape up your mind and body CHAMPAGNE! Hear, hear for getting into the holiday spirit

2015

Beat the Heat & Chill Out This Summer

ADRENALINE JUNKIES GET HOOKED ON THE GREATEST THRILL UNDER THE SEA – SPEARFISHING

Talking Shop: The Retail Resurgence

SINGING PRAISES Sinfonia Turns 10!

Navarre: Nature’s Last Playground

Creative Couples

+

HOLIDAY SPICE The gorgeous governor’s mansion plus inspiration galore in our gift guide

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

ART STOP TAKE A TOUR OF AWESOME ART IN UNEXPECTED PLACES

How to Get Into the Rental Property Game

+

Tennis Players With the Will to Rule the Courts

GOING TO POT LOCAL CHEFS TELL US WHAT THEY USE TO GET COOKING

THE EMER ALD COAST MAGA ZINE

THE EMER ALD COAST MAGA ZINE

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

REFRESHING WATERMELON GRANITA

page 127

» 2015 Best of the EC

THE

EMERALD

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

HOT

MUSIC FESTIVALS

A Fan’s Guide to the Greatest Shows in Northwest Florida

Award-Winning Artist Sam Hunt at Gulf Coast Jam

Extra Content Online Only

The best of the best, nominated by you, set up on Grand Boulevard to showcase their talents and specialties for the 2015 Best of the EC event.

Guests sipped, snacked and sampled from the top restaurants, stores and services along the EC. Our photo recap and blog of the night exhibits all of the excellence that the EC offers.

» Christmas at the Governor’s Mansion

Have you ever wondered how the Governor and the First Lady celebrate a Florida Christmas? We give you a peek into the Governor’s mansion complete with cherished decorations and plenty of family time. The first lady even shares her decorating tips and recipes.

in

b

TO

ec

J

o

OF THE

the cl

u

14 December 2015–January 2016

OF THE

UP-TO-THE-MINUTE CALENDAR OF EVENTS See what’s going on around the coast — or submit your own event.

Join the Club!

Text EC to 20673 or visit emeraldcoastmagazine.com and look for the Top of the EC logo to sign up for special promotions, events and exclusive offers.

(Text STOP anytime to opt out.)

»C oastal Skin Surgery Dermatology » Shan Kishi

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM

» EC Functional Family Medicine » EC

Facebook: Emerald Coast Magazine Twitter: @EmeraldCoastMag Instagram: @EmeraldCoastMag Pinterest: Emerald Coast Magazine

#LoveEC

CHASE YAKABOSKI (BEST OF) AND CARLIN TRAMMEL (E-NEWSLETTER)

emeraldcoastmagazine.com/ Newsletter-Mailing-List/

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

P

SIGN UP FOR FRESH INFO For an email you’ll be happy to see in your inbox, sign up for the EC Magazine e-newsletter. Each month we will update you with the latest stories, events and deals happening on the Emerald Coast.

THE ONLY SURGEON IN THE AREA WHO PERFORMS OPEN HEART SURGERY. (AND ONLY AT FORT WALTON BEACH MEDICAL CENTER.) Fellowship-trained at Mayo Clinic in Minnesota, Dr. Eric Sandwith is the tri-county area’s only cardiovascular surgeon who performs open heart surgery—and improving lives in this community is his mission. Dr. Sandwith chose the Northwest Florida Heart Institute and Fort Walton Beach Medical Center because the cardiac team is second to none.

They are committed to providing the very best personalized care, while incorporating the latest technology and innovation in cardiothoracic and cardiovascular surgery.

So you can find the life-saving care you need, at the moment you need it.

Call 850.862.3194 now for an appointment.

1032 Mar Walt Drive, Suite 230 Fort Walton Beach, Florida 32547

Eric Sandwith, M.D.

nflheartinstitute.com

Cardiothoracic & Vascular Surgeon

22722 emerald coast 7.25x4.875.indd 1

6/25/2015 1:32:03 PM

YOUR PERFECT CLIMATE

23 YEARS OF SERVICE ON THE EMERALD COAST

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM December 2015–January 2016

15

feedback The Letter from the Publisher “The Walton County Commission: Reckless disregard for the future of Walton County” in the EC October/November 2015 issue sparked a lot of discussion. Here are some of the comments and letters we received:

rbor

...on the ha

ing uneiqnuues Featurh nig tly m

A note to say kudos for taking the stand against the Walton County commission.

I still marvel at how well your publications have evolved. You’ve really hit the home run. I can easily remember what it was like back in the late ’70s when you were just starting out.

JOHN S. MOOSHIE GOLF AND TRAVEL JOURNALIST CRAWFORDVILLE, FLORIDA

BEST SEAFOOD RESTAURANT 2010-2015 BEST GUMBO 2014 BEST GROUPER SANDWICH 2013, 2015

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

Gum

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

...overlooking Crab Island

As a new resident of Walton County, I just received my first copy of EC magazine.

During my Navy career, I spent most of my service at the Charleston Submarine Base. I bought a home in an area where a black family was subdividing the 40-acre property their great grandfather received after emancipation. He was not only emancipated; he had been decorated as a member of the Negro Militia which had prevented the Union troops from burning Charleston the same night they burned Atlanta.

I had two neighbors who were proud members of the Middleton family who took their surname from the plantation owner whom their ancestors were proud to work for. These black families proudly flew the Stars and Bars along with the Stars and Stripes. They had Confederate front plates on their trucks. They were proud of their heritage and the heroic efforts of the Negro Militia recorded in history in the Charleston Civil War Museum.

Revisionist history is killing this nation and fomenting fear and hatred based on lies and omissions. I taught black history to black youth in Indianapolis as a part of the Points of Light. I was amazed that black youth have never had the honor of the truth of history bestowed upon them and the fact that Free Negroes had an important role in the foundation of the United States or that George Washington’s military attache was a free negro.

The same people keeping modern blacks ignorant of their glorious history are the same people promoting the idea that the struggle to eliminate repression never ends. Where there is an opportunity for financial gain, corruption will also creep in.

DAVID J. HANSON MIRAMAR BEACH

Feedback Guidelines

Open 7 days a week • 11AM -‘Til 9 Calhoun Ave., Destin • 837-7575 BOATERS WELCOME! 16 December 2015–January 2016

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM

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 e-mail 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 e-mail to letters@rowlandpublishing.com or mail them to: Feedback, Rowland Publishing 1932 Miccosukee Road, Tallahassee, FL 32308

At 23, Lauren had a love for life. But when she found herself in the ER from an unexpected heart condition, her life was put on hold. Fortunately, she was in good hands with Dr. Sandwith at Fort Walton Beach Medical Center. The exceptional staff gave her the care she needed, but more importantly, a second chance at life–which she now has even a greater love for. ChooseFortWalton.com

Exceptional People. Exceptional Care.

LAUREN CHOSE FORT WALTON. HER HEART WAS IN THE RIGHT PLACE.

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM December 2015–January 2016

17

2016

WINE WALKABOUT & TASTING FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 19, 2016 | 6:00-8:00PM

Hilton Sandestin Golf & Beach Resort, Coral Ballroom Sample from the 600+ 2016 South Walton Beaches Wine & Food Festival entries, including medal winners in 60 categories and gourmet food stations.

TICKETS

50

$

TO PURCHASE TICKETS VISIT

dcwaf.org

locally-owned and operated boutiques & restaurants

Makenzie Carter at Perspicasity

18 December 2015–January 2016

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM

in the e.c.

PEOPL E + ST Y LE + H Y P E

Snapshot

Teak & Twine is All Hart

When 29-year-old Air Force captain Torrance Hart planned her wedding for the spring of 2015, she felt it particularly important to find the perfect expression of gratitude for everyone who had traveled great distances from all over the world to share in the celebration. She scoured the worldwide web, but found nothing that quite hit the mark and so set about handcrafting her very own gift boxes. Each contained a carefully curated collection of unique items that fit the wedding’s theme and paid homage to the city of the couple’s meeting, Washington, D.C. And, as it happened, the boxes gave to their creator, supplying her with inspiration for a customizable gift business — Teak & Twine (teakandtwine.com). Once Torrance separates from the military at the end of 2015, she plans to make her charming new company her sole focus. Portions of each gift box purchase are donated to America’s Vet Dogs to raise and train service dogs for disabled veterans. “Our tagline is ‘gratitude changes everything,’” says Torrance. “Gratitude will strengthen your relationships and bring incredible satisfaction and happiness.” — Liesel Schmidt

Photo by Lawrence Davidson

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM December 2015–January 2016

19

chat

Sherri Williams: Seasoned for Success

Home Cooking That’s Got the Whole World Looking

BY LIESEL SCHMIDT

20 December 2015–January 2016

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM

TELEVISION FOOD NETWORK, G.P./ANDERS KRUSBERG

W

hen Crestview resident Sherri Williams submitted her first recipe to a cooking competition, the resort company rental and guest services manager hardly thought she’d place, much less win anything. In fact, despite the fact that Williams, then 48, had been cooking for most of her life and knew how to grill meat better than many professional chefs, she’d never spent a minute on the line in a restaurant or even written down a recipe of her own.

She earned her cooking chops in the school of life, watching and learning from her grandmothers — one a seasoned cook and the other a talented baker — and she found her joy in the simple act of conceptualizing a dish, digging her hands in and feeling the ingredients, and creating something full of love and flavor for her friends and family. Her talents were obvious to everyone but Williams herself, who considers cooking “just something I love to do,” something that comes to her as naturally as breathing.

If the past four-and-a-half years have proven anything, however, it’s that her natural ability is something to behold, something to cherish and something that she should share with the world.

And that’s precisely what she’s done, with a level of success that she never fathomed possible — even when that very first recipe won her a trip to the set of “The Steve Harvey Show” in Atlanta.

But hundreds of recipes, innumerable miles and an inestimable number of emotional highs and lows later, Williams has become a competition queen –– so much so that she was hand picked to try out for Food Network’s recent home cooking show, “All Star Academy.” The competition boiled down to four, four-member teams of home cooks chosen and mentored by Food Network chefs Alex Guarnaschelli, Bobby Flay, Michael Symon and Curtis Stone in a battle to win $50,000.

The chops that Sherri Williams earned in the school of life have paid dividends.

Here she is seen as a participant reacting to advice offered by celebrity chef Bobby Flay at a competition on Food Network’s All-Star Academy.

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM December 2015–January 2016

21

30A Store • 30A Vet 30A Learning Academy Artists at Gulf Place Coastal Paradise • Dipity Do Dah Kids Furry Fanatics • Islanders Coastal Outfitter Jade Nails • Jewel Toffier La Playa • Level 2 Design • The Perfect Pig Pizza by the Sea • Preacher's Kitchen ResortQuest by Wyndham Vacation Rentals Santa Rosa Pharmacy • Soho Boutiques Sunrise Coffee Co. • Trustmark Bank YOLO Board + Bike

Best Interior Design Firm

Fine Interiors along the Emerald Coast Destin • Watercolor • Alys Beach • Rosemary Beach 12870 US Highway 98 West, Miramar Beach | facebook.com/lovelaceinteriors | instagram @lovelaceinteriors

• 22 December 2015–January 2016

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM

chat EC: How did you feel when you found out that Food Network’s producers wanted you as a contestant on the show?

SW: I was in Las Vegas at the World Food Championships when I got the call, and I screamed, “Are you kidding me?”

I was totally shocked and honored that they wanted me there. I still had to do a bunch of interviews and Skyping sessions, cook some dishes to take photos of and send them a video that kind of told them who I am, but I never had to actually go for the tryouts that they were having all over the country, the way the other contestants did.

EC: What was it like for you, being part of such a huge competition like that, where you met so many famous chefs?

SW: Walking in to that kitchen — it was actually filmed in Kitchen Stadium, where they tape “Iron Chef” and “Chopped” — was just so surreal. I was looking around at all the photos of celebrity chefs on the walls and thinking, “I can’t believe I’m actually here!” I never thought in a million years that I would be on the Food Network. It’s funny, though, because I was talking to my sister not too long ago, and she said, “You know, I told you years ago that one day you were going to be on Food Network,” and I said, “Sure, but I didn’t think it would really happen!”

Inspired Tradition

The Traditional Course for the Modern Player

Membership Savings Ends Dec. 31st

EC: You were chosen to be on Team Alex, and you were one of her last two remaining home cooks. Being so close to the finale like that, were you disappointed when you were eliminated?

SW: You know, we all got along so well and I really enjoyed getting to know my fellow competitors. I’ve been so blessed in these past few years with all the times I’ve won and the things I’ve gotten to do, and there’s enough for all of us. I felt okay about leaving, because I felt like it was my time to go. I was forever blessed being on there, and if you never see me on another show, at least I was on that one. ec

Voted “Best Golf Course”

TELEVISION FOOD NETWORK, G.P./ANDERS KRUSBERG

by Visit South Walton

For Sherri Williams of Crestview, front row at right, an appearance on the Food Network was “surreal.” Williams says cooking is “just something that she does, something that comes naturally,” but she nonetheless took her place among talented cooks from around the country, all of them engaged in a battle to win the title of America’s Best Cook and a prize of $50,000.

SANTA ROSA

GOLF & BEACH CLUB

SantaRosaClub.com | 850.267.2229

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM December 2015–January 2016

23

champions

24 December 2015–January 2016

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM

Champions Among Us

Meet Two Emerald Coasters Whose Passion is Central to Their Purpose BY CHRISTY KEARNEY Drive. Passion. Vision. Hard work. Tenacity. Compassion. Collaboration. Focus. Empathy.

Integrity. These are the shared attributes of some of Northwest Florida’s most inspiring social champions. In honor of National Slavery and Human Trafficking Prevention Month in January we introduce you to Sherri Eckhardt. And as he marks his 30th anniversary as a successful restaurateur, we catch up with Dave Rauschkolb and learn more about his latest siren song for social change. These are the first two installments of a series on individuals making a difference as a champion on the Emerald Coast. These champions come from all walks and stages of life but are equally zealous about the community causes to which they have dedicated their lives. Meet them and be prepared to be inspired …

Sherri Eckhardt

Champion for Trafficking Victims

S

herri Eckhardt, a special child advocate with the Guardian Ad Litem (GAL) program in Bay County, likes to get down to business. “I don’t like wasting time,” says Eckhardt, who would rather be out advocating for victims of human trafficking than talking about it.

Eckhardt worked alongside her late husband to create a coalition to stop human trafficking in Northwest Florida. Their volunteer work with GAL is what exposed them to the realities of trafficking.

“I had the case, but I didn’t see it as human trafficking because I didn’t understand human trafficking at the time,” recalls Eckhardt. The mother of the child she was representing was being trafficked by her husband. She was 19 years old, illiterate, and severely abused by him. After a year of interactions, the victim finally agreed to leave with Eckhardt.

Eckhardt cites magazine tours as one of the most visible examples of trafficking happening locally. Each year around February a bus of “students” arrives selling magazines. Both young men and

Photos by Holly Gardner

women are being recruited for the tours and treated poorly, but often the women are also being exploited sexually.

“I never saw this as human trafficking either, but I learned that it was,” says Eckhardt. “We took victim impact statements from 14 victims — 13 young adults and one minor.” The goal is to reconnect them with their families. “If you don’t buy magazines, the problem goes away because the activity dries up,” she says.

Recently, Eckhardt visited trafficking victims in Honduras. “It was an incredible experience,” she says. “It gives me yet another perspective on human trafficking.”

Often frustrated with the disconnect between knowledge of trafficking and actual prosecutions, Eckhardt refuses to give up. Her goal is to create a working group of key players to address specific cases and see them through to prosecution.

For Eckhardt, the connection between abuse and neglect and a young adult’s susceptibility to human trafficking is clear.

Her goal is to break the cycle whether serving as an advocate for an abused child or actually rescuing a young woman from a human trafficking situation.

“So many people are educating about human trafficking, and that is great,” says Eckhardt who prefers working on cases to being in the limelight. “But I have victims I need to advocate for. That’s what I need to do.”

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM December 2015–January 2016

25

champions

26 December 2015–January 2016

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM

Dave Rauschkolb

Champion for Community Activism

PHOTO BY HOLLY GARDNER

F

rom the Confederate flag and offshore drilling to scenic signage and growth management, Dave Rauschkolb is not afraid to tackle the big issues affecting south Walton County — a community he has loved and strived to protect since he opened Bud & Alley’s Waterfront Restaurant in Seaside in 1986. Today, 30 years later, it remains South Walton’s longest established restaurant.

From the beginning, Rauschkolb knew he was a part of something special on 30A. “To be able to be involved in the pioneer phase of a community is an immense opportunity for a 24-year-old kid,” says Rauschkolb. “When you start to do things at that age that already start to make a difference in a community, it gives you confidence.”

That confidence and Rauschkolb’s creative thinking and problem solving naturally led to his involvement in game-changing community initiatives including the Scenic 30A Business Association, the Scenic Pride Initiative, Hands Across the Sand and his most recent undertaking — A Better South Walton.

“I was pretty adamant that we needed to be an activist organization that was going to keep the high-rise condos out and enhance the natural beauty of 30A,” says Rauschkolb of the Scenic 30A Business Association. “We needed sign laws and a bike path.” Consistent, appealing signage was also on the agenda. The goals of this trailblazing group created the 30A experience as it is known today.

With his eyes on Florida’s most precious resource — the beach — Rauschkolb founded Hands Across the Sand, Floridians standing together against offshore drilling. The Deepwater Horizon oil spill occurred two months later, launching Rauschkolb into the national limelight.

This past year, Rauschkolb carefully confronted the sensitive issue of the Confederate flag. “The only flags that should be flying in public spaces are the flags that represent all of us,” he shares. “The United States flag represents all of us. The Florida flag represents all of us.

The seal of Walton County represents all of us. Any other symbol really should not be in the mix in a public space.”

Always looking ahead, Rauschkolb has become involved with A Better South Walton, an initiative to investigate the possibility of incorporating South Walton. The goal is to give full-time South Walton residents the opportunity to determine what the future of South Walton will be.

“People who join hands change the world,” says Rauschkolb. He has proven this to be true using his consensusbuilding style, positive attitude, desire to empower people, and sense of fairness to positively affect his community and more. ec

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM December 2015–January 2016

27

We’re here to make you smile!

Christina HigginsDuplechain, DDS

Jason E. Baker, DDS

Matthew Fournier, DMD

Miramar Beach Dental & Orthodontics

We are committed to providing quality health care to families located in the Miramar Beach area and treat patients of all ages. We provide comprehensive solutions for our patients’ oral health needs. Believing in the importance of listening to our patients, we take the time to truly understand each person’s needs, goals and lifestyle. By understanding our patients’ objectives we can provide solutions that will improve their health while transforming their smile into something bright and beautiful.

(850) 650-2070 Taking care of all your dental health needs in one convenient location Visit our website: MiramarBeachDental.com 77 S. Shore Drive, Miramar Beach 28 December 2015–January 2016

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM

historicity

The Year We Almost Lost the Panhandle

BY WILLIAM L. NEEDHAM

ILLUSTRATION BY REBECCA TAYLOR

T

here once was a year in which Alabama offered to buy Florida’s Panhandle — and Florida almost agreed to sell!

It was in 1869 that representatives of Alabama and Florida actually signed a cession agreement that would have given to Alabama all of the land west of the Apalachicola River, an area that included 27,000 people and harbors at Pensacola, St. Joe and Apalachicola. In return, Alabama would pay $1 million in 8 percent bonds, payable in 30 years.

When residents of the area were asked their opinion in an election, they agreed: 1,162 voted in favor, while 681 were opposed.

This wasn’t the first time, nor the last, that Alabama had sought a wider border on the Gulf. At least seven times between 1811 and 1901, Alabama petitioned for cession of western Florida. Indeed, the latest effort was only 20 years ago when the Alabama Legislature discussed the possibility of buying just the area west of the eastern shore of Pensacola Bay — including, by the way, the city of Pensacola. Needless to say, Florida wasn’t selling.

But in 1869, a sale was almost made. The Alabama Legislature sent three commissioners to Florida to propose cession. This was no new thing because Florida had almost developed as two territories, one centered on St. Augustine and a western one under Pensacola. Western Florida had, at that time, strong bonds of kinship, trade, culture and geography with south Alabama, and extending Alabama to the Gulf seemed a “natural” idea.

In response to the visit of the Alabama commissioners, the Florida Legislature authorized the governor to appoint a committee to confer on cession of West Florida. On May 19, 1869, a cession agreement was signed and an election arranged for.

Alabama Gov. David Lewis, an ardent annexationist, urged the Alabama Legislature to approve the agreement “in ringing terms worthy of an advocate of Manifest Destiny.” Lewis said that West Florida was

designed “by the laws of nature” to be part of Alabama.

“The necessities of commerce, the outlets to the great highways of the world’s trade and travel, reciprocal wants, necessities and benefits,” he said, cried for annexation. In 1873, the Alabama Legislature agreed and approved the arrangement (though not without opposition).

Meanwhile, enthusiasm in Florida had cooled. Gov. Harrison Reed had come to oppose the project. He offered the view that he couldn’t believe that many people of Florida “seriously entertained the idea of ceding one-fifth of their territory and population, and the finest harbor in the Gulf, for such an insignificant consideration.”

If Reed felt that $1 million was insignificant, one wonders what price would have been acceptable?

The Florida Legislature took no action, and the issue died. But for one brief time, 115 years ago in May, West Florida was on the auction block, and the highest bid was almost accepted. ec This story was first published in the Spring 1984 edition of Tallahassee Magazine.

Among those who today refer to the Florida Panhandle as the Redneck Riviera or L.A. — Lower Alabama — are few who know that Alabama once came close to acquiring Florida from Apalachicola to Pensacola. Today, Alabama’s offer of $1 million seems preposterous. In Bay County, more than $1 million in bed taxes was collected in the first seven months of 2015. Eglin Air Force Base in the western Panhandle has a $3.7 billion annual impact on the local economy.

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM December 2015–January 2016

29

Sometimes even heroes need a helping hand.

He’s been a hero all his life. Now this hero needs a helping hand to get through each day.

Our Somerby lifestyle honors each resident’s service with a focus on independence, dignity, care and extra help when needed.

of

Santa Rosa Beach

Assisted Living | Memory Care | Respite Care

164 West Hewett Road Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459 www.Somerbyof SantaRosaBeach.com

Got a hero in your life who needs a helping hand?

Call (866) 822-1156 today to learn more, or to schedule your personal visit.

30 December 2015–January 2016

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM

scene What’s happening on the Emerald Coast? Here are just a few things we’ve heard about around the area.

NEW NEWS …

▪ Destin Charity Wine Auction Foundation donated $2.3 million to 14 local children-focused charities during a check presentation lead by president John Russell hosted at Lulu’s in Destin.

The amount marks a new record for the 10-year-old nonprofit organization, which to date has donated more than $10 million to local children’s charities estimated to have impacted more than 50,000 youth.

PHOTOS BY WHITNEY LADWIG (CROSSINGS) AND COURTESY OF DESTIN CHARITY WINE AUCTION FOUNDATION/TRE COLE, BAYTOWNE MELT DOWN/MICHAEL GRANBERRY (STACK MELT), SACRED HEART HOSPITAL ON THE EMERALD COAST AND GRAND BOULEVARD AT SANDESTIN (FISHER BROWN BOTRELL)

CROSSINGS OPEN FOR BUSINESS The Crossings at Inlet Beach, South Walton’s newest

Karah Young, Meredith Young, John Russell, Jordan Lacenski, Hayden Hritz

▪ Sacred Heart Hospital on the Emerald Coast has launched a $30 million expansion project to increase capacity for maternity, emergency, inpatient and pediatric services. The expansion will be completed in two phases, with the first phase opening in 2016 and the second

Sacred Heart Hospital Groundbreaking

phase opening in 2017.

▪ Owners of Meltdown on 30A, Chef Jim Shirley and Kelli Castille, have opened The Baytowne Melt in The Village of Baytowne Wharf in Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort.

THE STACK MELT, The Baytowne Melt

shopping center offering over 17,000 square feet of retail businesses, is now open and includes Beach Blinds, Draperies & More, Beach Properties of Florida, Interiors by Tassels, Lighting by Lavonne, Mattress Now, Rug Island, Stone & Tile Design and The UPS Store.

▪ The University of West Florida Center for Research and Economic Opportunity held the inaugural meeting of Triumph Gulf Coast Inc., on Aug. 18. Triumph Gulf Coast is a nonprofit corporation organized to oversee 75 percent of all funds recovered by the Florida attorney general for economic damages to the state that resulted from the 2010 Deepwater Horizon oil spill.

Triumph Gulf Coast must establish, hold, invest and administer a trust account at a federally insured institution for the economic recovery, diversification and enhancement of the eight Northwest Florida counties most affected by the spill. Those counties are Escambia, Santa Rosa, Okaloosa, Walton, Bay, Gulf, Franklin and Wakulla.

▪ The University of West Florida has approved the development of a second cohort for pre-licensure of Bachelor of Science in Nursing to meet the increasing needs of the local workforce.

The new cohort, set to begin in spring 2016, is expected to add 30 to 40 nursing students to the first cohort’s average of 60 students admitted each year.

If you have news to share, email us at EC-editor@rowlandpublishing.com.

Fisher Brown Bottrell

▪ Fisher Brown Bottrell has opened a new office in Grand Boulevard at Sandestin’s Town Center. More than 20 employees work in the 5,000-squarefoot office to provide a variety of risk management solutions including business insurance, personal insurance, employee benefits and bonding.

▪ Covenant Hospice in Pensacola has been selected to participate in the Medicare Care Choices Model. The model provides Medicare beneficiaries who qualify for coverage under the Medicare Hospice Benefit and dually eligible beneficiaries who qualify for the Medicaid Hospice Benefit the option to receive supportive care services typically provided by hospice and continue to

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM December 2015–January 2016

31

scene receive curative services at the same time.

Covenant Hospice is one of 140 hospices nationwide and the only hospice provider locally invited to participate in the model.

Covenant will begin implementing the Medicare Care Choices Model services Jan. 1, 2016, in Escambia, Santa Rosa, Okaloosa and Walton counties in Florida.

▪ Thanks to Lacey and Mike Meyer, it’s a little easier to enjoy the beach along the EC. The Meyer family purchased a parcel in Miramar Beach in 1994 and donated it to Walton County in 1995, so the beach could be enjoyed by all. The Miramar Beach Regional Beach Access is located just west of Pompano Joe’s Seafood. Plaques commemorating the donation will be located at three walkovers for the Miramar Beach Regional Beach Access.

▪ Chef Teofilo Tundidor, known as Chef T, was promoted to executive chef at Café Thirty-A in Seagrove Beach. The Florida native attended Johnson & Whales University College of Culinary Arts in Miami and has worked at Café Thirty-A on and off for 10 years.

FPRA NORTHWEST FLORIDA COAST CHAPTER BOARD The Northwest Florida Coast Chapter of the Florida Public Relations Association (FPRA) announced its 2015-2016 board of directors: Whitney Lee Ladwig, Proffitt PR – president; Megan Harrison, Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort and Spa – presidentelect and membership chair; Andi Mahoney, White Wilson Medical Center – APR chair; Kelli Carter, Visit South Walton – treasurer; Katie Johnson, Silver Sands Premium Outlet – secretary; Erin Igram, Purpose Communications – time and attendance chair; Britt Matthews, Beachy Beach Real Estate – programs cochair; Laura Holloway, Storyteller Agency – programs co-chair; Shaye Smith, Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort – design chair; Tracy Louthain, Newman-Daily Resort Properties – Image Awards chair; Jessica Proffitt Bracken, Proffitt PR – special events co-chair; Julie Stuckey, The Village of Baytowne Wharf – special events co-chair; Brooke Scholl, Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort – special events co-chair; Sarah Brazwell, Santa Rosa Golf & Beach Club – Communication co-chair; Marissa Marinan, Emerald Grande at HarborWalk Village – communication co-chair; Lori Smith, Seaside – sponsorship chair.

KUDOS & CONGRATULATIONS…

Chef Teofilo Tundidor

▪ Dr. Wade Jeffrey was named director of the University of West Florida’s Center for Environmental Diagnostics and Bioremediation. A veteran professor of the center, Jeffrey first came to UWF as a research assistant in 1991, moving through a series of promotions before assuming the leadership role.

▪ Dr. Kerrian Hudson, a board-certified family medicine physician, has joined Sacred Heart Medical Group’s practice in Destin.

Dr. Hudson cares for the entire family and has special medical interests in women’s health and wellness. She is passionate about breastfeeding and provides lactation consultation. Dr. Hudson also enjoys helping her patients lead healthy lifestyles through integrative and natural medicine.

32 December 2015–January 2016

▪ After completing 400 therapy visits, Riley, the Emerald Coast Children’s Advocacy Center’s staff therapy dog, has earned the highest designation of THDD by the American Kennel Club (AKC).

▪ “The Girl in 6E,” an erotic suspense novel by New York Times Bestselling Destin author Alessandra Torre, will be made into a movie. Torre has signed a Torre deal with EuropaCorp Inc. authorizing production of a full-length feature film based on her novel.

▪ Visit South Walton was awarded the Destination Marketing Accreditation Program seal by Destination Marketing Association

Visit South Walton

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM

International, in recognition of the destination marketing organization’s (DMO) commitment to industry excellence and meeting the industry standard for performance and accountability of DMOs around the world.

▪ The Northwest Florida Coast chapter of the Florida Public Relations Association honored Emerald Coast Children’s Advocacy Center CEO Julie Hurst as Person of the Year (2015).

Julie Hurst

▪ The Better Business Bureau Foundation serving Northwest Florida recently awarded Newman-Dailey Resort Properties the Torch Award for Marketplace Ethics in the category for business with 50+ employees in District II — Okaloosa and Walton Counties. The ninth annual Torch Award program recognizes businesses and charities that insist on exceptionally high standards of behavior. ec

PHOTOS BY KAY PHELAN (FPRA AND HURST) AND COURTESY OF CAFÉ THIRTY-­A , VISIT SOUTH WALTON AND ALESSANDRA TORRE

FACES IN NEW PLACES …

Sundays 8PM

Beginning Jan 3

The Final Season!

Free Preview Screening & Soirée Tuesday, Dec 15 • 7pm–8:30pm WSRE Jean & Paul Amos Performance Studio Pensacola State College 1000 College Boulevard, Pensacola

Can’t wait to see what happens in the final season? Be among the first to see the first full hour of Season 6 on the big screen.

Come dressed as your favorite Downton Abbey character and enjoy light refreshments and door prize drawings. Don’t miss this last chance to gather with fellow DA faithful at WSRE!

“Christmas at Downton Abbey” Luncheon Tuesday, Dec 8 • 11:30am–1pm Heritage Hall at Seville Quarter

148 E. Government Street, Pensacola

Tickets: $45 includes lunch wsre.org/DowntonAbbey

5225-1015 WSRE EC DecJan HP ad.indd 1

10/5/15 3:22 PM

YOUR BACK AND NECK PAIN ARE UNI UE. SO IS THIS NEUROSURGEON. Dr. Robert Feldman’s patients appreciate the extra time he spends with them, exploring all the possibilities before opting for surgery. His caring bedside manner—and extraordinary neurological expertise—bring relief to those suffering from back, neck and leg pain. With treatments for the full range of neurological, brain and spine issues, Dr. Feldman’s team at the Florida Institute of Neuroscience uses the newest technologies and minimally invasive surgical techniques. Backed by the highly trained surgical team at Fort Walton Beach Medical Center, they provide the best in outcomes and customer service.

To make an appointment with the Florida Institute of Neuroscience call 850.863.FINE (3463).

FINE

Robert P. Feldman, M.D.

Diplomate, American Board of Neurological Surgeons

22724 Feldman Emerald Coast 7.25 x 4.875.indd 1

Florida Institute of Neuroscience

1032 Mar Walt Drive, Suite 250 • Ft. Walton Beach, Florida 32547 FineInstitute.com

6/26/2015 3:22:55 EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM December 2015–January 2016 PM 33

FRESH SEAFOOD?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

34 December 2015–January 2016

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

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM

happenings EVENTS + CULTURE + CAUSES

Each winter singersongwriter Shawn Mullins travels from Atlanta to 30A to share his storytelling folk-rock tunes with local music lovers who flock to the 30A Songwriters Festival.

spotlight

PHOTO BY DAVID MCCLISTER

30A Songwriters Festival

The Emerald Coast is known for its beautiful beaches, but in mid-January when thousands of locals and visitors venture to Scenic Highway 30A to nestle into intimate venues and spread out blankets at large amphitheaters to listen to 230 performances by 150 local, regional and national singer/songwriters, the EC transforms into a perfect music playground. The popular event is gaining national attention and recently was ranked No. 6 by USA Today as one of 10 Best Southern Festivals.

The musicians look forward to it, too. Said Destin singer/songwriter and guitar player Kyle LaMonica, “It’s like Christmas for us local musicians because you get to be a part of a special event and be involved with so many amazing artists from around the country.”

What will be the sixth annual three-day music jam is set for Jan. 15–17. Tickets are available by the day, or you can snag a weekend pass for $120. Proceeds benefit the Cultural Arts Alliance in Walton County. Concerts are staged at 25 venues along Scenic Highway 30A. Download the official app for last-minute updates. Visit 30asongwritersfestival.com and map out your weekend with schedules organized by venue, artist or day. For more information, call (850) 622-5970. — Zandra Wolfgram

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM December 2015–January 2016

35

culture

36 December 2015–January 2016

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM

A Decadeof

Note SINFONIA GULF COAST CELEBRATES 10 YEARS

PHOTOS COURTESY OF SINFONIA GULF COAST

BY JENNIFER HOWARD

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM December 2015–January 2016

37

culture

w

hen you measure time in notes that dance along a musical score, a decade is an almost unimaginable collection of minutes, hours, days and years of music. Sinfonia Gulf Coast is celebrating its 10th anniversary this year, a mathematical and musical equation that underscores the quality of life along the Emerald Coast. Think 420 concerts, many more hours of practice and rehearsals, and countless hours of planning and volunteers’ time. The only fully professional orchestra in the region, Sinfonia is commemorating its first 10 years with a stellar season headlined by Emmy and Tony Award-winner Kristin Chenoweth.

“Symphony Redefined” was the tempo set by Demetrius Fuller, 38, Sinfonia Gulf Coast music and artistic director, and Sinfonia’s sponsors when he first organized what was in 2005 a new take on the concept of a community orchestra. The goal, Fuller recalls, was to bring national and international guest artists to the area, particularly those who had never made it to our coast.

“We offer a variety of musical events, what we like to call ‘one-stop symphony shopping,’” Fuller says. “Sinfonia isn’t defined or confined by the traditional definition of the symphony. We offer chamber music to chamber orchestra to full orchestra featuring world-class and award-winning guest artists.

From Pixar to Ansel Adams: America and the Brubeck Brothers in Arts commemorating the 70th anniversary of D-Day, Sinfonia Gulf Coast has introduced audiences to a caliber of concerts otherwise not found outside of larger, more urban areas.”

“One of my all-time favorite concerts was Pink Martini,” says Lorre James, a Sinfonia volunteer and Santa Rosa Beach resident.

“This group offered musical fun and amazing vocals that brought the entire audience to their feet. The finale was the giant conga line dancing around the room.”

Audience participation is often cited by concert-goers as their most memorable experience.

“The Jamie Bernstein concert stands out to me as one of Sinfonia’s best,” says Sandestin resident and volunteer usher Jennifer Crawford. “We were at the evening concert; so much fun and full of musical history. We know several children who were at the school concert, and they are 38 December 2015–January 2016

(Clockwise from top) Sinfonia Gulf Coast orchestra features approximately 80 professional musicians lead by music director and conductor Demetrius Fuller; Fuller has “redefined” the orchestra concert experience by staging mega multi-sensory and multi-media music events like this family-friendly offering called “Disney Pixar in Concert” that celebrated the memorable music in animated movie blockbuster films; Broadway legend Bernadette Peters electrified and sold out the Emerald Coast Conference Center in 2006 as the first celebrity performer to headline a Sinfonia gala concert.

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM

PHOTOS COURTESY OF SINFONIA GULF COAST

(Above) A joint commission by the Orchestra of Bretagne, the French Ministry of Culture, the Oakland East Bay Symphony and Sinfonia, the piece created to commemorate the 70th anniversary of D-Day was performed near Veteran’s Day in 2015 and featured a jazz band with an orchestra, melding the musical ideas of two countries while a stunning compilation of iconic World War II images displayed above the orchestra.

(Above) China Forbes of Pink Martini with the maestro Fuller. The first vintage Hollywood-themed fundraising event was so well received in 2010, Sinfonia brought the hip, retro band back again in 2012 for another world-class encore performance, which was successful in attracting even more millennials into the Sinfonia fan fold.

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM December 2015–January 2016

39

(Below) The 2015 holidays were warmed with a special performance by the great-grandchildren of Captain and Maria von Trapp from “The Sound of Music” fame who performed holiday classics interwoven with personal family stories.

(Right) The Sinfonia Youth Orchestra program is the premier training orchestra in Northwest Florida and consists of more than 60 students who participate in a variety of ensembles that perform throughout the school year.

still talking about ‘Mambo!’ How wonderful for elementary school children to be excited about music and musical history.”

Over the last three years, Sinfonia has experienced exponential growth. In collaboration with organizations such as The Northwest Florida Ballet, Emerald Coast Arts in Medicine and the Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation, the not-for-profit symphony has brought live music to community performances beyond its own season’s concert program. Says Denise Greene, board member of the Northwest Florida Ballet, “This year I can’t wait for the Nutcracker and Cinderella performances with live music provided by Sinfonia. A perfect pairing in my eyes.”

Working with county tourist development councils, Sinfonia has expanded its audience to bring in music lovers from around the country. It has debuted international

commissioned works by renowned composers and featured virtuoso soloists on instruments from violin to harmonica.

Perhaps the greatest crescendo in Sinfonia’s mission over the past 10 years is one the organization believes is not yet approaching its peak. Music education, left largely to languish by funding cuts in Okaloosa and Walton county schools, is a large part of the symphony’s outreach and plans for the next decade. The group’s largest fundraiser is Wine, Women and Shoes, an annual event that focuses on funding music education in the community.

Sinfonia’s Guest Artists in Schools program has brought acclaimed musicians into Okaloosa and Walton county schools, reaching more than 62,000 youngsters over the organization’s 10-year life span. More than 800 families have benefited from Sinfonia’s Students4FREE program, which

40 December 2015–January 2016

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM

provides complimentary tickets to live orchestral performances and musical events.

Sinfonia supports a 60-member youth orchestra program led by music director Liz Aylor and, for the third consecutive season, is one of 80 orchestras worldwide to partner with Carnegie Hall’s Weill Institute of Music in its Link Up program for third through fifth graders.

In addition to the continuing expansion of its music education programs, the next decade’s efforts by the community orchestra include (drum roll, please) building a performing venue for Sinfonia Gulf Coast.

The organization’s board of directors and sponsors envision a multi-use performing space that would also be available for public use. Sinfonia is looking forward to the next movement in its musical mission to entertain, educate and inspire the Emerald Coast community. ec

PHOTOS COURTESY OF SINFONIA GULF COAST

culture

(Above) Sinfonia invited Emerald Coast Theatre Company producing artistic director Nathanael Fisher to appear on stage as Mozart as part of an interactive art education program called “Paint with Music” produced in collaboration with Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation that invites local students to listen to sound samples of classical music and visually interpret what they hear.

(Below) Tony award-winning Broadway super star Patti LuPone brought the Sinfonia house down with a powerhouse performance during her one-woman show “Coulda, Woulda, Shoulda” in March 2014.

(Left) The dashing Cheyenne Jackson belted out Broadway hits during a “Mad Men”-themed soiree in October 2014 that transformed Seagar’s Prime Steaks & Seafood restaurant into an intimate cabaret nightclub.

(Above) The Northwest Florida Ballet performs a scene from their beloved classic ballet, “The Nutcracker,” as part of Sinfonia’s annual seasonal show “Orchestral Holiday.”

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM December 2015–January 2016

41

thecalendar december + january

Darla Brigante, Allen Walker and Laura Holloway in the 2014 Emerald Coast Theatre Company’s inaugural adaptation “A Dickens Christmas.”

+theatre

A Dickens’ Christmas December 5, 12, 19 Experience a unique adaptation of Charles Dickens’ beloved classic tale, “A Christmas Carol” in a three-actor performance staged in an intimate setting. Make this performance a new holiday tradition with your family and friends as you share cookies and tea in a cozy, festive atmosphere.

The Dec. 5 show is at 2 p.m. and is for special needs families. $20 for adults, $10 for children 5-12. HarborWalk Village. Curtain times are at 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Come 30 minutes prior to curtain to nibble cookies and tea. To purchase tickets call (850) 687-1837 or visit EmeraldCoastTheatre.org.

42 December 2015–January 2016

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM

Daily Year-Round

Glass Classes at The Shard Shop This make-your-own-shard-art boutique welcomes all ages and skill levels to make art with glass on canvas. Prices are from $35 for kids and $85 for adults. The Shops of Grayton, 26 Logan Lane, Grayton Beach.

Most adult classes are 10 a.m.–noon.

Family-style classes and kids classes are 1–3 p.m. (850) 231-0544, shardshop.com

Daily through January

Baytowne on Ice This seasonal ice-skating rink has become a local holiday favorite and is the perfect opportunity to bring you and the family into the winter spirit. $13 including skate rental and tax. The Village of Baytowne Wharf at

Compiled by Zandra Wolfgram

For more events in the EC, visit emeraldcoastmagazine.com.

Sandestin, 9300 Emerald Coast Parkway W., Miramar Beach. All day; first hour is reserved for “Kids Skate” for children ages 12 and under.

(850) 267-8184, sandestin.com/events

Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays

12 Nights of Lights Enjoy a festive light show set to your favorite holiday music during the month of December, leading up to a special Christmas performance.

FREE. Events Plaza in The Village of Baytowne Wharf at Sandestin, 9300 Emerald Coast Parkway W., Miramar Beach. 6, 7 and 8 p.m.

(850) 267-8117, sandestin.com/events

+food

Wine World Champagne Walkabout Dec. 13 Get into the spirit of the season with a bit of bubbly. Sip and sample Champagne and sparkling wines from all over the world and savor artisan cheeses and gourmet treats from Chan’s pantry at this festive annual event.

Tickets are $40 per person and the price include a $5 rebate on the purchase of in-store wines. One of the most anticipated “wine events” of the holiday season, the Champagne Walkabout will be staged throughout The Craft Bar and Chan’s Wine World at 4424 Commons Drive, Destin. The taste is from 2 to 4 p.m. For more information, call (850) 269-2909 and visit wineworld.com.

Fridays

Downtown Art Walk Stroll Fort Walton Beach’s historic district every third Friday of the month and visit merchants from participating shops and restaurants while enjoying art demonstrations, live music, complimentary refreshments and special discounts. FREE. Downtown Fort Walton Beach. 5:30–8:30 p.m.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF EMERALD COAST THEATRE COMPANY (A DICKENS’ CHRISTMAS) AND AMERICAN TREND

Live Music Fridays This musical event is open to the public every Friday evening with rotating musicians. FREE. Marina Bar & Grill at Sandestin, 9300 Emerald Coast Parkway W., Miramar Beach. 6–9 p.m.

(850) 267-7778, sandestin.com/events

Saturdays

Seaside Farmer’s Market Get your pick of fresh produce, baked goods, dairy products, native plants and other unique offerings at the Seaside Farmer’s Market. The selection of local specialties helps sustain area growers. FREE. 2255 E. County Highway 30A, Santa Rosa Beach.

8 a.m.–noon. (850) 231-6107, seasidefl.com

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

(850) 837-3099, grandboulevard.com

Saturdays and Sundays through January

Marina Sailgate Parties Enjoy an outside “tailgate” party at the scenic Baytowne Marina at Sandestin. Enjoy your favorite football grub and happy hour specials while watching your favorite college and NFL teams on screens inside the bar, outside on the patio and on the large screen overlooking the marina. FREE. Marina Bar & Grill at Sandestin, 9300 Emerald Coast Parkway W., Miramar Beach. (850) 267-7778

+charity

Dazzle and Dine, An Evening of Holiday Magic December 5 Dance to the music

of American Tread while bidding on silent and live auctions and enjoying dinner at the Angel House Bereavement Center’s inaugural fundraising event.

Proceeds from the night benefit individuals of all ages with much needed grief counseling. $60 per person, $480 for table.

The Holley Center, 4750 Collegiate Drive, Pensacola. 6:30 p.m. Call (850) 257-5036.

Through Dec. 19

Arts and Design Society Christmas Art Market Sale of art by ADSO members, suitable for unique gifts, featuring an assortment of special creations including jewelry, paintings, clay works, photographs, note cards, and even plants and food specialties, all produced by the members. Free. ADSO Art Center, 17 First St. SE, Fort Walton Beach. Gallery hours: Tue– Fri, noon–4 p.m.; Sat, 1–4 p.m. (850) 244-1271, artsdesignsociety.org

Through Dec. 19

‘Every Christmas Story Ever Told’ The REP Theatre’s six-year smash holiday hit returns with all of your favorite beloved holiday classics crammed into a night full of high-energy jolly, frivolity and hilarity. $20 for adults, $10 for children. The REP Theatre, 216 Quincy Circle, Seaside. 7:30 p.m. lovetherep.com

Dec. 1

Destin Harbor Boat Parade Come enjoy live music, children’s arts and crafts, hot chocolate and even jolly ol’ St. Nick during the 29th Annual Destin Boat Parade.

Afterward, stick around for a spectacular fireworks display over the harbor. Santa Claus’ visit, noon–4 p.m.; boat parade at 6 p.m.

10 Harbor Blvd., Destin. (850) 424 0600, emeraldgrande.com/event.aspx

Through Dec. 31

Festival of Trees Come feast your eyes on the magnificent array of spectacular Christmas trees decorated by area nonprofit organizations.

FREE. Grand Park in Grand Boulevard at Sandestin, 600 Grand Blvd., Miramar Beach.

(850) 837-3099, grandboulevard.com

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM December 2015–January 2016

43

socialstudies Bluegrass at the Beach Sept. 12 Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation marked its 20th anniversary by presenting the area’s first bluegrass festival. This family-friendly celebration of music and culture featured eight award-winning bluegrass local, regional and national music acts, youth crafts, an interactive music wall, dramatic storytelling, artist demonstrations, a diverse array of food and beverage offerings and, of course, plenty of pickin’, playin’ and dancin’.

The Hillbenders

Photos by Kay Phelan

The Hillbenders

Washboard Jackson

Julie Hurst and Les Porterfield 44 December 2015–January 2016

Melinda and Iain Bluett Dismal Creek

Colin, Jamie and Wessie Van Hoosear EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM

Moore Brothers Band

thecalendar Dec. 1–31

Window Display The works of digital artist Michael Lewis will be on display during the month of January in the studio windows of the Art Center in Fort Walton Beach. Drive by to view these magnificent displays. FREE. Art Center, 17 First St. SE, Fort Walton Beach. (850) 244-1271, artsdesignsociety.org

Dec. 3

First Thursday Art Walk and Holiday Sale Join the artists from the Grayton Artist Collective in their studios for a special holiday sale. FREE. Logan Lane off County Highway 283 in Grayton Beach. 5–8 p.m. (850) 231-1416, graytonartistcollective.com

Dec. 3

Starting a Business This workshop will review financing, selecting a business legal structure, identifying your market, record keeping and identifying risks that can challenge success. $35. UWF Emerald Coast, 1170 Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd, Fort Walton Beach. 1–4 p.m. (850) 586-7809, sbdc.uwf.edu

Dec. 4

Annual Arts and Design Society Holiday Party Party atmosphere with refreshments, art auction for holiday ornaments and gift items made by artists, and other activities. FREE. ADSO Art Center, 17 First St. SE, Fort Walton Beach. 6–8 p.m. (850) 244-1271, artsdesignsociety.org

Dec. 4

20th Annual Sounds of the Season This annual tradition is the Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation’s gift to unite the community in celebration of the true reason of the Christmas season with special musical soloists, quartets and some of the community’s young and emerging artists. Admission is a donation of an unwrapped child’s toy. Village Baptist Church, 101 Matthew Blvd., Destin. 7 p.m. (850) 650-2226, mattiekellyartsfoundation.org

Dec. 5

Santa’s Arrival at Silver Sands Premium Outlets Join us in the courtyard in front of Saks Fifth Avenue Off 5th to greet Santa as he arrives on a fire truck. Children can get their picture taken with Santa, have their face painted and participate in a holiday craft project provided

by Abrakadoodle. Be sure to bring your camera for photos with Santa. FREE. Silver Sands Premium Outlets, 10562 Emerald Coast Parkway, Miramar Beach.

11:30 a.m.–1:30 p.m.(850) 654-9771, premiumoutlets.com/ silversands

simply the best Thank you for voting us the BEST Best Locally Owned Retailer Best Women’s Apparel

Dec. 5

Fourth Annual Luminaria Run to End Domestic and Sexual Violence Come get your glow on during the luminaria twilight 5K/9K run through the Indian Bayou neighborhood and enjoy a delicious afterparty at Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. The trail will be illuminated with 2,000 luminaria bags signifying how Shelter House lights the way to a safer place for victims. Adults: 5K, $30; 9K, $45. Children (3-12): 5K, $10; 9K, $15. Bubba Gump Shrimp Co., 14059 Emerald Coast Parkway, Destin.

4:30 p.m. (850) 243-1201, shelterhousenwfl.org

Dec. 10

Straight Up and Toasted Chef Jack McGuckin will feature a special menu comprising multiple culinary stations with heavy hors d’ouevres.

Experience samplings of a selection of whiskeys while enjoying live entertainment, world-renowned cigars and a special hors d’ouevre menu by chef Jack McGuckin. $50; $40 for Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation members.

Proceeds benefit the Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation. Bijoux Restaurant, at The Market Shops in Miramar Beach.

5:30 p.m. (850) 650-2226, mattiekellyartsfoundation.org

Dec. 11

‘Broadway Holiday’ with Morgan James Epic Records recording artist Morgan James brings her larger-

850.837.5565 Located across from Destin Commons & next to Publix EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM December 2015–January 2016

45

thecalendar “Hope for Holidays” toy drive.

Donate new, unwrapped toys or gift cards of $15 and up and in exchange, play one of three public Sandestin golf courses for just $20. Sandestin Golf Courses, 9300 Emerald Coast Parkway W., Miramar Beach. Tee times available all day both days. (850) 267-8155, sandestin.com/events

Dec. 12

Dec. 13

Tuba Christmas and Baytowne Holiday Lantern Parade Get ready to get crafty and make your own paper lantern for this year’s Holiday Paper Lantern Parade. Kick off the night with a performance by Tuba Christmas and ring in the Christmas cheer.

FREE. The Village of Baytowne Wharf, 9300 U.S. Highway 98, Destin. 5 p.m. (850) 267-8117, sandestin.com/events

Jamie Bernstein

Sinfonia Gulf Coast presents ‘Big Band Holiday Brunch’ Joe Gransden and his Atlanta big band join singer Morgan James for a fun-filled holiday brunch at the Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa. $75 (includes all food, drink, gratuities and performance).

Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa, Coastal Ballroom.

11:30 a.m. (850) 480-8800, sinfoniagulfcoast.org

Dec. 12–13

Dec. 31

Tee Off for Toys Join in the Christmas spirit by participating in Harvest House’s

Pelican Drop Families can enjoy a street-party atmosphere in downtown

Julia Bullock

+music

Made in America January 29 Presented by Sinfonia Gulf Coast, Jamie

Bernstein returns to narrate Aaron Copland’s “Lincoln Portrait.” Soprano Julia Bullock, winner of the first Sinfonia Gulf Coast Young Concert Artists Prize, makes her Sinfonia debut singing works of Gershwin, Josephine Baker and Leonard Bernstein. The concert also features Aaron Copland’s “El Salon Mexico” and “Four Dance Episodes from Rodeo.”

Made in America will be held at Destiny Worship Center in Miramar Beach. The concert starts at 7:30 p.m. on Friday and tickets can be purchased online at sinfoniagulfcoast.org/web/events.

TM TM

APRIL 28TH – MAY 1ST, 2016 Grand Boulevard at Sandestin® Miramar Beach, FL

sowalwine.com ALL PROCEEDS SUPPORT

PRESENTING SPONSORS:

MEDIA SPONSOR

FOUNDING PARTNERS:

OFFICIAL LODGING PARTNER

Benefiting Children in Need in Northwest Florida

PREFERRED LODGING PARTNER

VISIT SOWALWINE.COM FOR TICKETS 46 December 2015–January 2016

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM

PHOTOS COURTESY OF SINFONIA GULF COAST

than-life vocals to Sinfonia Gulf Coast’s stage to perform some of your holiday favorites. This is a family-friendly show with a special guest appearance from St. Nick himself. $29–$45.

Destiny Worship Center, 122 Poinciana Blvd., Miramar Beach.

7:30 p.m. (850) 480-8800, sinfoniagulfcoast.org

socialstudies Destin Charity Wine Auction Foundation August 27 Destin Charity Wine Auction Foundation (DCWAF), named one of the top charity wine auctions in the country by Wine Spectator magazine, donated a record breaking $2.3 million to 14 Northwest Florida children’s charities at a check presentation party held at LuLu’s Destin. Guests enjoyed wine and cheese, a sampling of Lulu’s menu and a sweeping view of Choctawhatchee Bay. DCWAF, which marked 10 years in 2015, has now donated more than $10 million to nonprofit organizations to serve children in Northwest Florida.

Dr. William Burden and Pam Burden Tracy Louthain and Stacey Brady

Photos by Rhonda Murray

John Russell and Roger Hall

Live auction winner Beth Carroll

Jordan Lacenski and Karah Fridley-Young

Derek Garcia, Julie Fesefeldt, Chris Woodruff, Josh Deyton, Tara Mienke and Maddison Moellering

Patrons of Hope Dinner September 17 More than 150 guests gathered at the Lake House at Watercolor to help benefit the Lighthouse Family Retreat, which helps serve families living through childhood cancer at a seaside retreat.

The dinner included live and silent auctions and was presented by Chi-Mar Construction.

Photos by Lilly & Sparrow Hillary and Cory Fosdyck

Chris Woodruff and Marty Williams EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM December 2015–January 2016

47

socialstudies

The Market Shops Bloody Mary Festival September 19 Eat, drink and B. Mary! That was the motto for this inaugural event that celebrated the beloved Bloody Mary cocktail at The Market Shops, which benefitted Sinfonia Gulf Coast. Fifteen different local restaurants and bars participated in making their signature Bloody Mary for guests to sample and decide which Bloody Mary was their favorite. The first place judges award went to Bud & Alley’s Waterfront Restaurant, and the People’s Choice winner was Bijoux.

Photos by Pure 7 Studios

Chelsea Calhoun, Catherine Guarisco, Shaye Smith, Cory Conroy and Aubrey Charette

Ian Schenkman, Lauren Schenkman, Jack McGuckin, Demetrius Fuller, Leslie Levy and Jessica Proffitt Bracken

Lynn Patacca, Lowell Wilson and Dejuan Mathis MIller

Sarah Hanley, Lori Leath Smith, Ellen Zamorano and Debbie McChesney

Toast the Coast September 24 Selected by Coastal Living magazine as one of 10 cities across the nation to simultaneously celebrate National Happy Hour Day, Bud & Alley’s bartenders served its version of the brooding rum-based cocktail Dark & Stormy on its rooftop deck bar as the sun set.

Melinda and Iain Bluett 48 December 2015–January 2016

Rachael Burrow and Chandler Stroman EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM

Photos by Chase Yakaboski and Michael Broadway

thecalendar Pensacola with live music, a children’s area and fireworks, along with a 10-foot, half-ton illuminated pelican that will be dropped 100 feet at midnight.

FREE. The celebration begins at 5 p.m. (850) 435-1603, pensacolapelicandrop.com

Dec. 31

Eighth Annual Beach Ball Drop Ring in the New Year at Pier Park in Panama City with a festive night of live musical performances and exclusive giveaways. At 8 p.m., brace yourself for the nation’s only family beach ball drop, where 10,000 beach balls will be released onto guests, followed by a countdown starting just before midnight for the drop of the 800-pound lit beach ball.

Pier Park, Panama City Beach.

5:30 p.m. (850) 236-9974

Dec. 31

Annual Countdown Seaside: A New Year’s Eve Celebration Ring in 2014 at a big, familyfriendly party in Seaside’s Central Square featuring live entertainment, kid’s art projects, street performers and more fun. Festivities begin at 6 p.m. and last through midnight. seasidefl.com

Dec. 31

Baytowne Countdown Bring your dancing shoes to The Village of Baytowne Wharf’s New Year’s Eve party. Enjoy live bands and breathtaking fireworks as you make the last night of the year one to remember. Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort and The Village of Baytowne Wharf, 9300 Emerald Coast Parkway West, Miramar Beach. 7 p.m.– midnight. (866) 912-3224. sandestin.com/events

Dec. 31

SunQuest Cruises Solaris New Year’s Eve Dinner and Fireworks Ring in the New Year on a 125-foot yacht as you cruise the waters under the moonlight, indulge in a five-course, chef-prepared meal, dance to live music and toast with champagne as the sky above you is illuminated with fireworks. $115 per person including a 4.5-hour cruise,

five-course meal, champagne/ favors, live music and fireworks.

Baytowne Marina at Sandestin.

8 p.m.–12:30 a.m. (850) 650-2519, sunquestcruises.com

Dec. 31

New Year’s Eve Celebration Dance your way into the new year with HarborWalk Village’s annual New Year’s celebration. Start the night with some wine, food and dancing and finish off with the annual ball drop and fireworks show. FREE. 10 Harbor Blvd., Destin. 7 p.m. (850) 424-0600. emeraldgrande.com/event.aspx

Dec. 31

The Piano Men Ring in the New Year with the Pensacola Symphony Orchestra and Piano Men: The Music of Elton & Billy. This concert is a tribute to the amazing songs of Elton John and Billy Joel with a four-piece pop band backed by the full Symphony. $22–$90.

Pensacola Saenger Theatre, 22 E Intendencia St, Pensacola.

7 p.m. To reserve tickets, call (850) 435-2533 or visit pensacolasymphony.com.

RESTAURANT ● LOUNGE ● WEDDINGS & EVENTS

Inspired Perfection

Jan. 1–31

Window Display The art of Helen Blair will be on display during the month of January in the studio windows of the Art Center in Fort Walton Beach. Drive by to view these magnificent displays. Free.

Art Center, 17 First St., Fort Walton Beach. (850) 244-1271, artsdesignsociety.org

“Best Place to Watch a Sunset” 2015 Best of the Emerald Coast

Jan. 5–22

Pyramid Art Show Experience the powerful art from the artists of Pyramid, Incorporated. Hosted by the Arts and Design Society, enjoy a gallery viewing as well as a post-reception. Admission fee to gallery; reception is FREE. ADSO Art Center, 17 First St. SE, Fort Walton Beach. Gallery hours: Tues–Fri noon–4 p.m.; Sat 1–4 p.m. Reception Jan. 8, 6–8 p.m. (850) 244-1271, artsdesignsociety.org

Christmas

PARTY PACKAGES RING IN THE

New Year

Jan. 14

Wine, Women and Shoes Sole Sister Kick Off Lunch and Fashion Preview Brilliant bling and accessories

Vueon30a.com | 850.267.2305 EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM December 2015–January 2016

49

thecalendar from Destin Jewelers, along with a fashion preview and sample sale courtesy of The Village Boutique, door prizes, post-event retail savings at The Market Shops retailers, and a culinary experience by Bijoux chef Jack McGuckin, paired with Pip Wines, highlight the event.

Proceeds benefit Sinfonia Gulf Coast. Price TBD. Bijoux in The Market Shops, 9375 Emerald Coast Parkway, Miramar Beach.

11:30 a.m. (850) 460-8800, sinfoniagulfcoast.org

scenic waterways, featuring breathtaking views of Choctawhatchee Bay, Destin Harbor, East Pass and the Gulf along an undeveloped stretch of Okaloosa Island. The 5K and 10K are $30 in advance, $35 on race day. The half-marathon is $60 in advance, $70 on race day.

Clement Taylor Park, 131 Calhoun Ave., Destin. Half-marathon start is 7:30 a.m.; 5K/10K start is 8:30 a.m. Awards ceremony at 10:45 a.m. (850) 837-6241, destinbayoubaybeach.com

Jan. 15

Jan. 27

The Winter Guest Fest The area’s biggest trade show for winter visitors, filled with great information, coupons and door prizes. $1. Emerald Coast Convention Center, 1250 Miracle Strip Parkway, Fort Walton Beach.

8 a.m.–noon. (850) 244-8191, fwbchamber.com

Jan. 16

Mardi Gras Parade on Okaloosa Island The Gulf Coast’s first Mardi Gras Parade is a family-friendly event filled with fun, festivities and beads, beads, beads! FREE. Takes place along Santa Rosa Boulevard on Okaloosa Island in Fort Walton Beach. 1 p.m. (850) 244-8191, fwbchamber.com

Jan. 22

Destin Desserts Local chefs create delicious desserts using the famous Girl Scout cookies as their main ingredient at this sweet event benefitting the Girl Scouts of the Florida Panhandle. Each chef will compete for the title of Destin Dessert Champion, and attendees vote for their favorite dish. $35. The Palms of Destin Resort and Conference Center, 4201 Indian Bayou Trail, Destin. Doors open at 6 p.m. and the event starts at 7 p.m.

Purchase tickets at The Center for Cosmetic & Family Dentistry, Frillseekers or Shear Twist.

Jan. 23

Destin’s Sixth Bayou, Bay & Beach 5K Run/Walk, 10K and Half-Marathon This theme is “beach bums” for this USA Track & Fieldcertified race along Destin’s 50 December 2015–January 2016

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM

January Arts and Design Society Luncheon Thalia Newton, multi-talented artist, will draw on her career as an interior decorator to demonstrate how to transform old furniture with decorative features. Make your reservations

by Monday, Jan. 25. $12 ($15 after Jan. 20). Art Center, 17 First St. SE, Fort Walton Beach. 11:30 a.m.

For reservations, send an email to adsorsvp@gmail.com or call Risa at (850) 376-3901. artsdesignsociety.org

Jan. 28–Feb. 18

Arts and Design Society Membership Show A celebration of ADSO members’ talents. FREE. ADSO Art Center, 17 First St. SE, Fort Walton Beach. Gallery hours: Tues–Fri noon–4 p.m.; Saturday 1–4 p.m. Reception Jan. 29, 6–8 p.m. (850) 244-1271, artsdesignsociety.org

Jan. 30

Arts and Design Society Membership Open House Spend the entire day celebrating the members of ADSO. Meet the artists, browse their works and learn about the endless classes and activities the Arts and Design Society has to offer. Art Center, 17 First St. SE, Fort Walton Beach.

10 a.m.–4 p.m. (850) 244-1271, artsdesignsociety.org +save the date!

Emerald Coast Cattle Barons’ Ball March 14, 2016

Linkside Center at Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort, (850) 519-4320 ec

socialstudies Eggs on the Beach September 26 There were more than 25 Big Green Eggs across the beach on the green at Seascape Resort for another year of grilling and barbecuing. Eggs on the Beach brought together hundreds of “eggheads” to compete to see who the best griller would be. The friendly competition also included celebrity guest Ray Lampe, also known as Dr. BBQ, who cooked and autographed his latest cookbook, “Flavorize”.

The People’s Choice Award and Judges Award both went to Team InDyne. This year, Eggs on the Beach raised $23,000 for Fisher House of the EC. Photos by Zandra Wolfgram Sherry Londe, Nathanael Fisher and Dr. Melinda Graham

Ray Lampe with Ahmad Lightfoot and family

David Hobbs, Christopher Brown, Ray Lampe, Jennifer Brown and Dalamar Vance

Chef Adam Kness, Elaine Tucker and Chef Dom Damiano

Michelle Cook and Ray Lampe

David Hobbs and Dana Cail EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM December 2015–January 2016

51

DOO BE DOS …

AND DON’TS » WHAT TO WEAR –

You are going to a coastal concert, so be stylish, but stay practical. Wear lightweight clothing and comfy shoe wear. Bring a sweater or light jacket.

Be mindful of others and leave your “Four Weddings and a Funeral” hat at home. Don’t forget to lather on sunscreen and a dose of insect repellent.

» WHAT TO TAKE –

Many concerts welcome picnic baskets with your favorite food and beverages (don’t forget a bottle opener), but others, who have food concessions, do not welcome coolers, so be sure to check first.

Bring along a blanket or lightweight folding chairs.

Consider an umbrella, as well as a small trash bag.

And take everything you came with, especially the little ones.

» WHO TO BRING –

Take along family, friends and neighbors who love an old-fashioned outdoor concert. Though parks are fun for Fido, this might not be the time and place for him to romp.

» WHERE TO PARK –

Plan to arrive early to snag a great parking space, otherwise be prepared for a pleasant stroll. Many concerts have attendants who can direct you to appropriate parking; others offer valet. Don’t forget to tuck away a few bucks to tip the attendant.

» HOT SHOT – It’s

exciting to snag and post a snapshot of a performer you love, but be sure clicking away is AOK and, if so, turn off your flash.

» SHUSH – Refrain from loud chatter during the concert. If you can hear them, they can most likely hear you, too. Finally, one sound that isn’t popular wafting through the airwaves — a ring tone. Be sure to silent your cellular.

52 December 2015–January 2016

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM

Sam Hunt, Pepsi Gulf Coast Jam Festival, 2015 PHOTO BY KANSAS PITTS

music festival junkies JAM YOUR WAY TO THESE MUST-NOT-MISS MUSIC FESTIVALS

HENRY WADSWORTH LONGFELLOW said,

“Music is the universal language of mankind.” And we all can probably agree that festivals of any sort give us an excuse to gather together and celebrate.

It must go without saying then that music festivals are surely one of the most exhilarating ways to connect a community. And on this score, the Emerald Coast doesn’t miss a beat.

From charity events to genre-specific concerts to special holiday happenings, the Emerald Coast is simply pulsing with music festivals year-round.

Orchestrating a family outing al fresco here is certainly a breeze. And to keep things lively, event

promoters are mixing it up, and beyond rock, jazz and blues, you can also step to the beat of Motown, reggae, rhythm and blues, folk and even bluegrass performed by local, regional and national musicians, acts and bands.

Like the sea turtles indigenous to the Emerald Coast’s illustrious shores, most of the beach towns along the coast have birthed festivals that are so popular, they also return year after year. Pictured are some memorable moments during a few festivals staged along the EC beautifully captured by music festival junkies/local photographers Kansas Pitts and Shelly Swanger. // ZANDRA WOLFGRAM

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM December 2015–January 2016

53

Nicky Sanders, The Steep Canyon Rangers, Tallahassee, 2015 PHOTO BY SHELLY SWANGER

54 December 2015–January 2016

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM

Andy Hall, Infamous Stringdusters, Suwannee Springfest, 2015 PHOTO BY SHELLY SWANGER

Sam Hunt, Pepsi Gulf Coast Jam Festival, 2015 PHOTO BY KANSAS PITTS

56 December 2015–January 2016

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM December 2015–January 2016

57

Hillary Scott, Charles Kelley and Dave Haywood, Lady Antebellum, Pepsi Gulf Coast Jam Festival, 2015 PHOTO BY SHELLY SWANGER

58 December 2015–January 2016

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM

Oliver Wood, The Wood Brothers, Suwannee Springfest, 2015 PHOTO BY SHELLY SWANGER

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM December 2015–January 2016

59

Sam Hunt, Pepsi Gulf Coast Jam Festival, 2015 PHOTOS BY KANSAS PITTS

Amy Ray, The Indigo Girls, 30A Songwriters Festival, 2015 PHOTO BY SHELLY SWANGER

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM December 2015–January 2016

61

The Infamous Stringdusters, Suwannee Springfest 2015 and Luther Dickinson (below) 30A Songwriters Festival, 2015 PHOTOS BY SHELLY SWANGER

62 December 2015–January 2016

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM

Below is a roundup of some of our favorite must-not-miss annual music festivals throughout the Southeast:

30A SONGWRITERS FESTIVAL January 15–17, 2016

150 artists performing at 25 venues along 30A: Jackson Browne, Shawn Mullins, Nash Graham, Davis Naish, Chris Alvarado, Kelsey Anna, Bobby Bare, Jr., Ammons Season, David Berkeley, Jeff Black, Boukou Groove

BUKU March 13–14, 2016 New Orleans, LA Bassnectar, A$AP Rocky, Passion Pit, Empire of the Sun, Die Antwoord, Porter Robinson

SUWANEE SPRINGFEST

Modest Mouse, Band of Horses, The Avett Brothers, Primus, Milo Green, Café the Elephant, Big Gigantic

PEPSI GULF COAST JAM Sept. 2–4, 2016 Panama City Beach Past Performers: Lady Antebellum, Miranda Lambert, Keith Urban, Hunter Hayes, Dwight Yoakam, Martina McBride, Sam Hunt

BLUEGRASS AT THE BEACH

Past performers: Lucinda Williams, John Hiatt, Del McCoury, David Grisman

September 2016, Dates TBD Mattie Kelly Cultural Arts Village, Destin

March 13–22, 2016 Austin, TX BORNS, Cathedrals, Robert DeLong, Holychild, Bob Moses, Odesza

SEABREEZE JAZZ FESTIVAL April 21–24, 2016 Panama City Beach Past performers: David Sanborn, George Benson, Peter White, Rick Braun, Richard Elliott

NEW ORLEANS JAZZ & HERITAGE FESTIVAL April 24–May 3, 2016 New Orleans, LA Elton John, Lady Gaga, The Who, Widespread Panic

BEALE STREET MUSIC FESTIVAL April 29–May 1, 2016 Memphis, TN Lenny Kravitz, Ed Sheeran, John Fogerty, The Avett Brothers

PHOTO BY SHELLY SWANGER

July 16–17, 2016 Birmingham, AL

March 2016, Dates TBD Live Oak, FL

SXSW

Larry Keel, Suwannee Springfest, 2015

SLOSS MUSIC & ART FESTIVAL

HANGOUT MUSIC FEST May 15–17, 2016 Gulf Shores, AL Foo Fighters, Zac Brown, Beck

COUNTERPOINT May 22–24, 2016 Atlanta, GA Widespread Panic, Zedd, The Roots, Kygo

Past performers: Blue Highway, Willie Sugarcapps, The Hillbenders, Run Boy Run, The Moore Brothers Band, Dismal Creek, Dread Clampitt

SANDESTIN SONGWRITERS FESTIVAL October 2016, Dates TBD Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort, Miramar Beach Past performers: Aaron Barker, Kendell Marvel, Alissa Moreno, Steve Bogard, Brent Cobb, Will Rambeaux, Sherrie Austin, Trent Summar, Karla Davis, Hailey Steele, Jamie Lee Thurston, Hugh Mitchell, Even Stevens and Carl Anderson

BAY FEST October 2016, Dates TBD, Mobile, AL Past performers: The Vespers, Eterniti, Peek, The Swon Brothers, George Clinton & Parliament Funkadelic, Shinedown, Cage the Elephant

FRANK BROWN INTERNATIONAL SONGWRITERS FESTIVAL November 2016, Dates TBD, Pensacola Past songwriters: Casey Kelly, Dean Dillon, Jamey Johnson, Scotty Emerick

Hunter Hayes, Pepsi Gulf Coast Jam Festival , 2015 PHOTOS BY SHELLY SWANGER

64 December 2015–January 2016

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM

Making sweet Southern memories for over 20 years...

Family owned and operated since 1995, Southern Rentals and Real Estate offers vacation rental, residential leasing and real estate services from Panama City Beach, Florida to Fairhope, Alabama.

Whether you are looking to stay for a few days or make the move of a lifetime, we are poised to offer you a one-of-a-kind experience that is above all else.

RENTALS & REAL ESTATE

OF 20|YEARS EXCELLENCE

GoSouthern.com | 855.971.1490

“Carrying On The Family Tradition For The 41st Year.”

TAYLOR

THANK YOU FOR VOTING US BEST DEALERSHIP SINCE 2008 329 MIRACLE STRIP PKWY. SW, FT. WALTON BEACH, FLORIDA 32548 850-244-5165 SamTaylor.com EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM December 2015–January 2016

65

Green Machine the

Restaurateur and franchisor Ron Green has big plans for his future and the Emerald Coast

BY CHAY D. BAXLEY

I

Cinnamon Roll French Toast

66 December 2015–January 2016

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM

PHOTO BY COLLEEN DUFFLEY PRODUCTIONS

PHOTO COURTESY OF ANOTHER BROKEN EGG

f there’s one thing Ron Green has learned over the past decade or two, it’s that all dining establishments are not created equal. As a restaurateur and franchisor, Green, the founder of Another Broken Egg of America Inc., has established himself across the country as a foodie force to be reckoned with.

It wasn’t always this way though. For most of his adult life, Green never fancied himself as the culinary type.

Ron Green, for many years a government project manager, was inspired to build a better breakfast place when his job travels stranded him for a time in a Louisiana town with a dearth of good places to eat.

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM December 2015–January 2016

67

This Another Broken Egg restaurant opened in Grand Boulevard at Sandestin near to the Miramar Beach-based company headquarters in April 2014 marks the 43rd location of the franchise, which now numbers 52, with 19 more planned for 2016.

“I think you can tell the strength of a franchise business by who buys its franchises. We’ve never really advertised. It’s all word of mouth. People have come to us. What we have seen more than anything else in the last five years is that people who have bought into the system are re-buying.”

— Ron Green, founder of Another Broken Egg of America Inc.

“My past history is mostly government projects and facility design,” shrugged Green. “I was in a whole different field, and I didn’t really get into the restaurant business ’til I was 43 years old.”

His flight to the hospitality industry

68 December 2015–January 2016

started in 1996 as a matter of necessity while living in Mandeville, Louisiana.

Green, then a government contractor with the Department of Energy, found himself without a reliable breakfast or brunch option in the area.

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM

For him, that was an affront to morning people everywhere.

“I never got good service,” said Green.

“The food was greasy. And I said, ‘If I’m ever going to do this, I want to develop a high-end breakfast, brunch and lunch concept that people are willing to pay a couple of dollars more for but they’ll get a whole different experience.’ ” After extensive research into the industry, his first restaurant, Broken Egg Café, opened in Old Mandeville, Louisiana, in a centuryold cottage. Two years, one big move and a tiny tweak to the name later and Green landed on the Emerald Coast with the same dreams in tow.

Another Broken Egg began franchising in 2004. And although the company’s footprint

PHOTOS COURTESY OF ANOTHER BROKEN EGG

has grown, the concept is still based on the same deliciously simple ingredients: fresh food, local flavor, a relaxed but upscale atmosphere and unmatched service.

It’s a recipe that’s served Green and his franchisees well thus far. By 2018, the brand headquartered in Grand Boulevard at Sandestin is slated to have more than 100 locations nationwide.

“I think you can tell the strength of a franchise business by who buys its franchises,” explained Green. “We’ve never really advertised. It’s all word of mouth.

People have come to us. What we have seen more than anything else in the last five years is that people who have bought into the system are re-buying.”

While multiple ownerships are among

Lobster & Brie Omelette

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM December 2015–January 2016

69

the brand’s latest trends, expanding into entirely new regions is another example of the positive growth that has the establishment — as well as their franchisees — excited for what’s ahead.

“We think we’ll open between 22 to 25 (restaurants) a year starting in about another year and a half,” strategized Green.

“Plus we have several restaurants waiting to open. We just sold 12 locations in San Diego. We’re also seeking new franchises in the Northeast, the Midwest, even further in California.”

Since the concept behind Another Broken Egg has gained sustainable momentum, Green’s been hard at work developing a new luxury eatery brand that speaks to the laidback style of Northwest Florida’s coastal communities.

He’s dubbed it “The Beach House.”

“It’s just a coastal, casual, come-as-youare kind of place,” smiled Green.

Situated in the former location of the Elephant Walk, The Beach House’s persona might be unassuming and relaxed, but the restaurant itself is anything but.

With 13,500 square feet offering soaring Gulf-front views, five different venue

70 December 2015–January 2016

options and 300 seats, The Beach House is an impressive space. Combine that with its fresh-from-the-sea menu options, extensive cocktail listings and the only beachside restaurant with a pool on the Emerald Coast — and The Beach House has quickly managed to elevate the local rotation of dining options in Miramar Beach from supreme to next level. The space is also available for events.

Surprisingly, the renovation process for the new-to-market concept took a brief three months (and nearly $1 million) to complete.

For Green, the speed of his turnaround was a matter of coordination and efficiency.

Beach House Burger

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM

“I’ve opened 52 restaurants in 19 years,” noted Green. “So we understand the dynamics of construction. We got a lot done in a short period of time, and we were very successful at it.”

For Green, opening his first small plates and dinner establishment meant focusing on the aesthetics almost as much as the grub.

His aim was to bring the outside in, and the inside out — making each room and veranda as comfortable and inviting as the last.

“I went in there in the mornings, afternoons and evenings thinking about how I wanted to do this,” said Green. “I wanted to capture what the view captures — turquoise, dark blues and sky blues.”

Adding a dash of whitewashed woods and sea oat yellows completed the effect. While no plans for franchising the colorful brand have emerged as of yet, Green admits he’s open to the idea — though there’ll be a few stipulations.

“When I opened my first restaurant, I just wanted to open one — or maybe two or three,” said Green. “Now we’re at 52. I’d be remiss to say this will be the only one. But if it’s called The Beach House, it’s going to need to be on the beach.” ec

PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE BEACH HOUSE

Having opened 52 eateries in 19 years, restaurateur Ron Green has mastered the dynamics of construction.

He put that experience to work in completing in just three months an extensive remodeling job leading up to the opening of The Beach House on the Gulf in Miramar Beach.

PRESENTED BY

SAVE

THE DATE

EMERALD COAST’S PREMIER SALON COMPETITION AND CHARITY FUNDRAISER

FRIDAY APRIL 8, 2016 HILTON SANDESTIN BEACH GOLF RESORT & SPA

For more info and to purchase tickets visit EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM

PRESENTING SPONSOR

SPONSORS

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM December 2015–January 2016

71

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE

Whether you want to deck yourself out for date night, thank a friend with something special or find a unique gift for someone on your holiday list, with our handy Holiday Gift Guide, you are sure to enjoy your shopping spree on the EC. With fabulous finds ranging from upscale designer duds to silly keepsake souvenirs, sensational seasonal shopping is simply in the bag! Now, that’s the spirit!

1

2

3

4

5

6

1. COASTAL SKIN SURGERY AND DERMATOLOGY Pamper and rejuvenate with a Meritage Spa gift card that can be used for facials, chemical peels, waxing services, massages, Glo Minerals make-up application, Neocutis products and more. 12469 Emerald Coast Parkway, Suite 101, 850.654.3376, coastalskinsurgery.com 2. BEAUTIFUL LIGHTS — THE SHOPPES OF DESTINY (between Avantgarde and Kiki Risa) Beautiful Lights, voted Best Lighting Store in 2014 and 2015, offers lighting options from decorative to task lighting, including custom lighting design services. This holiday season bring some cheer and decorate with the “A Christmas Story” Leg Lamp in 72 December 2015–January 2016

your window! $247. 36236 Emerald Coast Parkway, Destin, 850.650.9417 3. NOT TOO SHABBY BOUTIQUE Framed with reclaimed wood, this 11.5"x12" “Beach Window” painted by local artist Marisol Gullo, is the perfect reminder of the beauty surrounding us. $149. 3906 Hwy. 98 W, Suite 41, 850.418.3976, ShopNotTooShabby.com 4. 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! Available in six sizes from $402 to $1,206. Voted Best Outdoor Furniture Retailer. 32 Forest Shore Drive, Destin, 850.269.4666, BayBreezePatio.com

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM

5. TRACERY INTERIORS Tracery: The Art of Southern Design, featuring 19 homes from across the country, Tracery explores Designer Paige Schnell’s talent for creating timeless and evocative interiors while helping to inspire your style. Purchase a signed copy of Tracery: The Art of Southern Design at Tracery Interiors, $50.

72 Main St., Rosemary Beach, 850.231.6755, Shop.TraceryInteriors.com 6. 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, 850.837.2441, store.sirensatthebeach.com

6y

20

rs in a r ow

ea

1 0 –2 0 1 5

850.650.1039 | infinityfloors.com

The Beauty & Warmth of Wood, the Benefits of Tile Chic and very low-maintenance, tile is the go-anywhere floor for Florida lifestyles.

One of the most durable flooring materials available, tile is a great choice for areas that see a lot of wear or moisture, inside or out. It resists stains and scratches and is easy to maintain — a floor that’s not only

beautiful, but practical as well. Plus, tile in wood look designs makes it possible to add the charm of wood anywhere you like. Today’s tile is available in so many different looks and colors, it’s a natural choice for Emerald Coast homes. Learn more at infinityfloors.com.

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM December 2015–January 2016

73

Destin

(850) 269-6400 Monday - Friday, 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Fort Walton Beach

(850) 863-8291 Monday - Friday, 7 a.m. - 7 p.m.

Saturday - Sunday, 8 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Niceville

(850) 897-4400 Monday - Friday, 7 a.m. - 7 p.m.

Saturday, 8 a.m. - 4 p.m.

74 December 2015–January 2016

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM

the good life FOOD + TRAVEL + HEA LTH + HOME

eudaimonia*

PHOTO BY JENNIFER G. PHOTOGRAPHY

Baker Block unlocks windows on the past If you didn’t know it was there, you just might miss it. And it would be a shame if you did, because the Baker Block Museum is one of Okaloosa County’s most treasured attractions. Situated on the corner of Highway 189 and State Road 4, this living history museum works to preserve the culture and heritage of the local community. Exhibits include Civil War artifacts, Native American relics, authentic log cabins and so much more.

Director Ann Spann says the museum is different than most historical museums in the area. “We focus on history in Okaloosa County, and we are unique in the way that we offer the local flavor, local exhibits and heritage.” She says that while the museum features a plethora of artifacts, the most popular exhibit is the authentic log cabin which is adorned with traditional furnishings that would have been common during the 1800s.

However, what truly makes Baker Block special is its fully functional research library, which includes genealogy resources, local maps, census records and even voter information. Open Tuesday through Friday, the museum offers free admission to the general public. Baker Block is easily one of Okaloosa County’s most fascinating cultural landmarks. — Casey Feindt

*happiness is ...

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM December 2015–January 2016

75

going places

Smooth

Sailing TIPS TO KEEP YOUR NEXT CRUISE SHIP SHAPE

BY LYNNE R. CHRISTEN

l

MAKING THE BEST CRUISE MATCH There is no “one size fits all” when it comes to cruising. Cruising is all about choices. Ready to rock-around-the-clock or seeking serenity? Like to dress up or dress down? Tight travel budget or able to splurge? Choosing a destination, cruise line and cruise ship that matches personal style and budget is the first step to finding the best cruise.

It pays to do some homework. Visit cruise line websites and note which companies and ships offer appealing activities and entertainment choices. Read online cruise reviews. Ask frequent cruisers for recommendations. Surveys show that the majority of cruisers rely on the services of travel professionals.

Tammy McDaniel, owner of Tammy’s Journeys in Fort Walton Beach, has been in the travel industry for nearly 30 years. Her advice: “Create a wish list of what’s important to you and work with an experienced travel agent to sort through the myriad of choices for a dream cruise.” In addition to helping make the best cruise match, well-connected travel agents like McDaniel sometimes have access to deals not found online. They handle timeconsuming logistics of booking flights, pre- or post-cruise hotel accommodations, rental cars and travel insurance. They also help clients decide where to cut corners and how to stretch travel budgets. And they often score perks, such as upgrades and onboard credits. Most important, McDaniel says, “We are in the client’s corner if something goes awry.”

76 December 2015–January 2016

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM

LAWRENCE DAVIDSON

ooking for the ultimate escape far away from daily doldrums and demands? It’s time to run away to sea. According to the most recent Cruise Lines International Association Executive Summary, more than 50 million North Americans express a strong interest in cruising in the next three years.

Keeping up with consumer demand between 2011 and 2015, 26 new vessels, ranging from oceangoing to riverboats, will join fleets sailing to more than 2,000 ports around the world.

Close to home, five Florida cruise ports and the Port of New Orleans offer destination diversity and added-value deals that are strong enticements to sail away.

LYNNE CHRISTEN’S CRUISING MYTH BUSTERS MYTH: Cruising is too expensive Actually, cruising is one of the best vacation values. Many cruises are $100-$150 per person, per day for a cabin with a private balcony.

MYTH: Cruises are for old people The average cruise enthusiast is 49 years old. That said, the longer the cruise, the older the cruisers.

MYTH: Cruises are too structured On the contrary, today’s cruises offer “free-style” everything, allowing you entertainment options and activities.

MYTH: You don’t get to see enough on cruises True, you can’t see all of most destinations in a day. But, cruises are a wonderful way to sample destinations that you might never see otherwise.

Source: “101 Cruise Tips”

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM December 2015–January 2016

77

going places CHOOSING YOUR CRUISE Destinations with lots of competition usually deliver the best deals. For example, the Caribbean and Alaska are topranking cruise destinations, and a wide variety of cruise lines offer highly competitive pricing. McDaniel recommends booking at least six months in advance for earlybird fares, the best cabin selection and travel arrangements. If the price drops prior to final payment, most cruise lines adjust the fare or provide onboard credits for the difference. It also pays to be flexible. Cruise fares vary significantly between high-season and off peak times. Delaying sailing by a few weeks may mean savings such as two-for-one fares. » The Caribbean is the hottest cruise ship destination in the world. Luckily, itineraries are as diverse as the islands themselves. For smooth sailing, follow these Best Bets: Avoid the hectic Miami International Airport and crowded Port of Miami where as many as 16 cruises are waiting to sail. Check out ports in Fort Lauderdale, Tampa, Port Canaveral, New Orleans and Mobile, which (at press time) was finalizing an agreement with Carnival Cruise Lines. » Most cruises to Alaska depart from Vancouver, Canada or Seattle. Cruising Alaska treats travelers to some of Mother Nature’s finest gifts: majestic mountains, calving glaciers and icebergs. Follow these Best Bets to make the most of this cool cruise: Splurge on a private balcony cabin or opt for a small ship cruise so you won’t miss any of the action. Book a cruise tour that includes travel by railway through Denali Park. » The South Pacific cruises are usually a week long and primarily circle the volcanic islands and coral atolls around Fiji or Tahiti. Hop on this Best Bet if you go to Hawaii: Helicopter ride over the Kilauea volcano crater and the Road to Hana on Maui.

Finding The Right Home AGE LEN RTG

Jill Cadenhead | Loan Officer 850-826-2571 NMLS#390506

jcadenhead@englending.com 2014, 2015 VA, FHA, RD, Conventional, Condo & Construction

348 Miracle Strip Pkwy SW, Ste #37 Fort Walton Beach, FL 32548

This is not a commitment to lend or extend credit. All loans are subject to credit approval including credit worthiness, insurability, and ability to provide acceptable collateral. Not all loans or products are available in all states or counties. ENG Lending and Bank of England are not affiliated with any government agency.

ENG Lending is a division of Bank of England. NMLS 418481. Member FDIC.

78 December 2015–January 2016

» If you are not cruising with an all-inclusive cruise line, plan ahead for these onboard a la carte charges not typically included in cruise fare: Cocktails, wine, beer, soft drinks and items in cabin mini bars. Look for discounted drink-of-the-day special each day. It is permissible to bring a bottle of wine or champagne on board; however cruise lines do not officially permit you to bring your own alcohol on board for consumption in your cabin. Some cruisers pack a bottle of their favorite liquor (wrapped securely against breakage or leakage) in checked luggage.



R DE

MO

Starts With The Right Mortgage Company

Surprising to many new cruisers, the least expensive cruise fare may actually cost more in the long run. In addition to airfare, onboard cruise costs add up fast. When comparing cruise costs, factor in the added value of all-inclusive amenities like free airfare, transfers, complimentary hotel nights, pre-paid gratuities, open bars and free shore excursions offered by upscale cruise lines.

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM

Luxury spa and salon services. Watch for specials, especially on port days when many passengers go ashore and business is slow.



Ship photographs are DVDs. A ship’s photographer is always around capturing cruise moments, including formal portrait sitting. There is no obligation to purchase photographs or a souvenir DVD.



LOOK BEFORE YOU BOOK The size and location of your stateroom has a huge impact on your cruise cost, not to mention how much you will enjoy it. Consider these factors when choosing a stateroom: Inside cabins are the least expensive. However, spending a little more for an ocean view or balcony cabin adds value to the overall cruise experience.



Choose the highest affordable cabin category and request an upgrade if available. Travel agents who do a lot of business with a cruise line often get preferential upgrades for their clients.



Do not leave your cabin assignment to chance. Consult a deck plan online for exact stateroom locations and request a specific room. Avoid cabins located below or above nightclubs, theaters or the gym. Avoid cabins across from laundry, housekeeping stations or next to elevators, or near the dining room.



ROS stands for Run of Ship and means you pay for the lowest category cabin and could possibly receive an upgrade near sailing date. “Best Cabin Guarantee” means getting the best cabin available in a certain category rather than choosing a specific cabin. Choose a specific cabin rather than risk a disappointment in your cabin location.



PACK THESE MUST-HAVES In addition to your cruise wardrobe, here are some additional items that will make for smooth sailing:  Pack a crushable tote bag or backpack for excursions and explorations on shore. The bag is also an “overflow” bag at the end of the cruise for all the purchases made along the way.

Zipper bags are helpful for organizing leaky prone liquid, sets of jewelry, maps and guidebooks, snacks and small personal toiletries for carry-on bags. 

Purchase a hanging cosmetic bag and stock it with prescription medications, personal hygiene items and overthe-counter medications for common complaints. Hang it on the back of the door to free up space in a tiny cabin bathroom.



GREAT SOUTHERN

SELECT UPSCALE BROKERAGE Find out about listing your boat with us

Horizon Yachts in stock now!

E78 | E84 | E88 | P110 | V80

You never know when rain showers will pop up at sea and ashore, especially in the tropics. Don’t forget a small umbrella and disposable poncho.



A pair of small of binoculars should never be far away for spotting whales, wildlife and coastal landmarks or viewing passing ships and the starlit sky. 

A travel journal will be your best souvenir when it comes to capturing and reliving cruise moments long after you are back on land.



Small gifts that are representative of your hometown are a fun way to delight shipmates and show extra appreciation to crewmembers. ec



GreatSouthernYachts.com | (850) 424-5344 Serving the South EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM December 2015–January 2016

79

mind + body

gaga gray going over

From the Subtly Salt-and-Peppered to the Sensationally Silver, Going Gray Is a Cool Hair Trend and a Gorgeous Right of Passage

BY CHAY D. BAXLEY PHOTO BY KANSAS PITTS PHOTOGRAPHY

80 December 2015–January 2016

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM

ALL AGES ARE DOING IT. From the A-list celebrity set to trendy teens, going gray is no longer, well, a gray area.

Perspective is everything when it comes to regular hair coloring. A few hours at a fancy beauty parlor every six weeks can be a relaxing escape or dreaded chore all depending on one’s mood. For many across the Emerald Coast though, it’s about more than just a frame of mind. Spending money can be a hard thing to justify.

5 Celebrities Going Gray

DIANE KEATON

ANDERSON COOPER

JAMIE LEE CURTIS

LADY GAGA

JUDY DENCH ELAINE TUCKER, FORT WALTON BEACH

PHOTOS BY BEN GABBE/GETTY IMAGES (KEATON), TINSELTOWN / SHUTTERSTOCK.COM (COOPER), CARLAVANWAGONER / SHUTTERSTOCK. COM (CURTIS), HELGA ESTEB / SHUTTERSTOCK.COM (LADY GAGA), DFREE / SHUTTERSTOCK.COM (DENCH)

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM December 2015–January 2016

81

mind + body

Brian Haugen

Senior Vice President, Investments

Steve Cann

Associate Vice President, Investments

WEALTH MANAGEMENT

|

FINANCIAL PLANNING

34851 Emerald Coast Pkwy., Suite 200 Destin, FL 32541

850-650-0990

www.emeraldcoastwealthadvisors.com

You’ve spent a career building your wealth, we spend our careers helping you protect it.

Raymond James & Associates Inc., Member New York Stock Exchange/SIPC

THANK YOU NICEVILLE For your continued support on our one year anniversary!

Shoppes of Destiny 850.654.5057 Destin Commons 850.654.1303 Niceville 1540 John Sims Pkwy 850.678.1000

Proud to offer Fresh Talent pricing, where luxury is affordable.

Like us on Facebook

massage #8650

& 2015 20142014

1ST PLACE

1ST PLACE

PRESENTING SPONSOR: THE CENTER FOR COSMETIC & FAMILY DENTISTRY

PRESENTING SPONSOR: THE CENTER FOR COSMETIC & FAMILY DENTISTRY

PRESENTING SPONSOR: THE CENTER FOR COSMETIC & FAMILY DENTISTRY

82 December 2015–January 2016

avantgardeaveda.com EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM

Spending time? Well that can be even more difficult.

If you’re jonesing to go au naturel and to let your gray (nay, silver!) locks shine through, this laid-back look might just be for you. There are a few things to consider, though, before taking the gray.

For example, could you deal with a two-toned mop if choosing to be a cold-turkey kind of gal? Or are you more of the fake-it-till-you-make-it variety? If so, stylists recommend consistently lightening your strands, utilizing the frosting method of hair coloring, for up to a year until the till the new growth fills in seamlessly. Of course, there “I do feel like it’s is one other option. kind of given me Mhmm. Snip snip. a new energy in “Unfortunately because my my 50s. I feel like natural hair is so extremely dark I it’s fun, and it’s decided that the best way to do (go definitely more gray) was just to cut it all off exflattering than tremely short,” said Elaine Tucker, my dark hair a creative marketing and event was, at least at planning professional from Fort the age that I am Walton Beach. “So three years ago now. I get lots of now, after my daughter got marcompliments on ried in March, I went to my hair it. People are very dresser and said ‘cut it off.’” encouraging.”

For those willing to make the — Elaine Tucker, commitment, the pros can definiteFort Walton Beach ly outweigh the cons. Just ask Kay Phelan of Destin, who has made a local name as the “PRtographer” and is a seasoned public relations pro.

“I was a brunette with blue eyes all my life,” explained Phelan. “I always swore I would never, ever let my hair go gray, that I was going to be a brunette until the bitter end.”

Along the way, Phelan’s perspective changed. In 2006 she became the primary caretaker for her son who was diagnosed with terminal cancer at the age of 35. Naturally, her devotion to Brad’s medical needs and numerous doctors’ appointments prompted her to take a hiatus from regular visits to the salon.

“I decided at that point to just kind of let my hair grow out,” recalled Phelan. “I had no idea if it was entirely gray or partially gray. I had been coloring it since my 40s, so I just kind of let it grow out — which is not an easy thing to do if you’re a woman and you’re out in the business world and in the community.

“Sure enough, it was pretty gray,” she laughed. Today, Phelan loves her salt-and-pepper tresses. And if the array of compliments she gets is any indication, so does everyone else.

Situated in Pensacola, Jill White is another member of the Silver Sisterhood.

A petite woman, White said that in her former career as the senior vice president of Northwest Florida State College (today she settles on simply being a talented and award-winning jewelry maker) she always felt that the soft brown hair of her youth didn’t portray the right amount of calculated chutzpah she knew she possessed.

With silver hair, it’s a different story. “I’m a little more present now,” smiled White. “I have a little more gravitas.”

It’s a benefit she doesn’t take lightly. And one, she believes, other women of like-mind are starting to appreciate as well.

“I think that there are more women, famous and not, who are deciding to let their age show,” stated White. “It’s a matter of age, wisdom and a different form of beauty.” ec

Health&Fitness S PEC IAL ADVE RTISING SECTIO N

The fitness and health industry is constantly evolving with new trends, modern technology and ground-breaking philosophies that aim to motivate and excite those who desire to live their healthiest lifestyle. 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 2016 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 or treating yourself to the pair of athletic shoes you’ve been eyeing to help you run your fastest marathon time. 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.

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM December 2015–January 2016

83

Health&Fitness

S P EC IAL ADVE RTISING SECTIO N

BLUEPRINT HEALTH STUDIO

Customized Personal and Small Group Training and Fitness Matt Staver, Owner and Trainer

CHASE YAKABOSKI

Blueprint Health Studio firmly believes that a personalized approach to health and fitness is the most beneficial way to achieve overall wellness.

Through education on proper diet and exercise, Blueprint aids in creating reliably successful fitness regimens.

Both of their studio locations offer personal training, small group training, corporate wellness programs, sports specific training, family fitness training, pre/post partum fitness, meal suggestions and specialized goal tracking.

The 30A location recently added a massage therapy facility, which offers deep tissue, sports specific and neuromuscular therapy.

For those days when clients can’t make it into the studio, Blueprint offers an online exercise and meal coaching program and videos.

Blueprint begins by getting to know their clients on a personal level. Trainers strive to understand the root causes of issues that clients may be experiencing so they can know how best to alleviate them.

Blueprint is devoted to providing clients with an improved quality of life. They are committed to taking individual differences and personal goals into account in order to effectively guide clients along on their fitness journeys.

84 December 2015–January 2016

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM

4421 COMMONS DRIVE E, STE B-108, DESTIN | 850-460-2588 3925 W. HIGHWAY 30A, SANTA ROSA BEACH | 850-333-9265 BLUEPRINTHEALTHSTUDIO.COM

JACQUELINE WARD IMAGES

SPEC IAL ADVE RTISING SECTIO N

Dunn Diabetes & Wellness Center is the private medical practice of Dr. Cheri Dunn, whose focus is on the prevention, care and cure of diabetes. Through comprehensive medical management, nutrition and lifestyle consulting, many patients are able to lessen or even eliminate the need for some of their prescription medications. Whether the patient is diabetic or non-diabetic, DDWC offers preventative and wellness dimensions such as in-depth nutrition counseling and metabolism/weight management in an effort to avoid the pitfalls that lead to diabetes and its complications.

For the weight management program, there is no media touted or TV hyped supplements, unnecessary “cleanses,” product/food purchases or one-size-fits-all diets. There are no forbidden foods! The plan for each patient is derived from evidence-based medicine, parameters are mathematically calculated and guidelines are set to fit myriad schedules, likes and dislikes. An hour or more spent with Dr. Dunn upon an initial visit will provide you with the tools, knowledge and understanding necessary to fuel and maintain your individualized regimen. “I don’t put anyone on a diet; I teach people how to eat,” is Dr. Dunn’s mantra.

The DDWC aesthetics center, Revive, is directed by aestheticians Mona Skidmore, R.N., and Rebecca Mayeux. You may schedule an evaluation for medical chemical peels (compounded specifically for DDWC), pigment spot treatments, dermaplaning, nonsurgical facial enhancements and guidance in your home skin care regimen.

141 MACK BAYOU LOOP, SUITE 101 (850) 267-FIXU (3498) | DUNNTHEHEALTHYWAY.COM

CHASE YAKABOSKI

DUNN DIABETES & WELLNESS CENTER

RUN WITH IT 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 best suited for their running or walking style. While runners are the most common customers, Run With It caters to all types of fitness enthusiasts and anyone interested in starting and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. The store offers top of the line name brand shoes, apparel and health-related 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!

170 MIRACLE STRIP PARKWAY (850) 243-1007 RUNWITHITFL.COM

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM December 2015–January 2016

85

Health&Fitness

S PEC IAL ADVE RTISING SECTIO N

www.RunSeasideFL.com Seaside, FL February 26, 2016 - Taste of the Race February 27, 2016 - Race Expo February 28, 2016 - Half Marathon & 5K Run DESTIN SOUVENIR MAGAZINE

www.RunSeasideFL.com www.RunSeasideFL.com Seaside, Seaside, FL FL

February February 26, 26, 2016 2016 -- Taste Taste of of the the Race Race February 27, 2016 Race Expo February 27, 2016 - Race Expo February 28, -- Half Marathon 5K All Finishers Receive a Vera Bradley & Tote, February 28, 2016 2016 Half Marathon & 5K Run Run

SEASIDE SCHOOL HALF MARATHON & 5K RUN

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!

Seaside, FL

February 26, 2016 - Taste of the Race February 27, 2016 - Race Expo All Finishers a Bradley Tote, February 28,Receive 2016 - Half Marathon & 5K Run All Finishers Receive a Vera Vera Bradley Tote, Moisture-Wicking Technical Shirt, Runner All finishers receive a Vera Bradley Moisture-Wicking Technical Shirt, tote, Runner moisture-wicking technical shirt, runner goody bag, Goody Bag, Delicious Lunch and Beer, Goody Bag, Delicious Lunch and Beer, and and a a delicious lunch and beer, and a wonderful post-race Wonderful Post-Race Party with Live Music!

Wonderful Party with Live Music! party withPost-Race live music! Half marathon finishers Half Marathon Finishers Also Receive

also receive a custom medal.

Half Marathon Finishers Also Receive a a Custom Medal!

Custom Medal!

86 December 2015–January 2016

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM

LIVE YOUR BEST LIFE Otium 30A seeks to transform and empower clients with a fitness and wellness studio featuring Hot Yoga, High-Intensity BarreAmped, TRX Suspension and private training. Through a non-intimidating environment, highly trained instructors and a welcoming approach, Otium 30A inspires growth, peace and intentional health. Clients and visitors experience a gorgeous studio space complemented by a health conscious juice bar and a retail boutique offering luxury active wear. In January, Otium will be collaborating with Big Fish Power Yoga for a teacher training that aims to inspire participants, maximize physical stamina and transform lives.

12805 U.S. HIGHWAY 98 E., SUITE L 101 (850) 909-0141 OTIUM30A.COM

SPEC IAL ADVE RTISING SECTIO N

BLUEPRINT HEALTH STUDIO MASSAGE ON 30A ALYS SHOPPE

Sit back and relax with a massage from Blueprint Health Studio’s 30A location. Let them relieve tense muscles and shed away your stress.

Hydrate yourself with these reusable bottles that look great AND do good! Nonleaking, non-toxic stainless steel keeps your drinks cold for 24 hours and hot for 12 while giving back to those in need. S’well bottles are perfect for a day at the beach or a yoga session after work, keeping liquids cold or hot from day to night.

ALYSSHOPPE.COM | (850) 213-5550

ONLINE FITNESS COUNSELING/COACHING

Fitness and wellness can be obtained anytime, anywhere through MRStaverFitness.com’s exercise and meal coaching. Receive individualized meal plans and customized fitness programs that fit your busy lifestyle.

Call for pricing

3925 W. COUNTY HWY 30A | (850) 333-9265 | BLUEPRINTHEALTHSTUDIO.COM

RUN WITH IT

Engineered for maximum cushioning, Hoka provides lightweight, nimble performance. Offering luxurious softness and a sensation of weightlessness, they’re like nothing you’ve ever experienced!

Clifton 2 women’s shoe

$130

Bondi 4 men’s shoe

$150

MRSTAVERFITNESS.COM | BLUEPRINTHEALTHSTUDIO.COM

THE MOST SOUGHT-AFTER GIFT THIS SEASON! Enhance. Tone. Smooth.

Firm. Meet your NuFace.

170 MIRACLE STRIP PARKWAY | (850) 243-1007

OTIUM 30A

Our mission is elevation. Offering Yoga, hot yoga, barre and small group TRX classes daily. Cold pressed juices, natural apothecary and luxury studio to street style wear. Inquire about our inclusive family package. Give the gift of intention.

NuFace Trinity Pro, the professional amperage device, is available only in physicians offices and medical spas. Put your NuFace on today at Revive Aesthetics, located within Dunn Diabetes & Wellness Center. The regularly advertised NuFace Trinity and NuFace Mini are also available upon request.

141 MACK BAYOU LOOP, SUITE 101 | (850) 267-FIXU (3498)

12805 U.S. HWY 98 E., INLET BEACH | (850) 909-0141 | OTIUM30A.COM

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM December 2015–January 2016

87

OUR SITES ARE SET ON FLORIDA’S GROWTH. Gulf Power’s Florida First Sites program adds certified industrial sites and parks to Northwest Florida’s portfolio of competitive advantages.

McCallum Sweeney Consulting provides an objective analysis which minimizes risk, accelerates speed to market and gives companies the confidence to make Northwest Florida their prime choice for future growth.

For more information, contact Rick Byars, Community and Economic Development Manager for Gulf Power Company, at 850.444.6849 or crbyars@southernco.com.

FloridaFirstSites.com

Board Certified Family Medicine & Functional Medicine

Access the Future of Medicine Today Functional Medicine is an integrative, science-based health care approach that focuses on unlocking the root of chronic disease by learning the patient’s history in order to lead them to a healthy mind, body and spirit.

NOW ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS

Peter Kozlowski, M.D.

Emerald Coast Functional Family Medicine

339 Racetrack Rd NW #3, Fort Walton Beach | 36468 Emerald Coast Parkway, Ste. 1101, Destin | 4554 E. Hwy 20, Niceville

(850) 830-7517 | dockoz.com | contact@docoz.com Se habla Español 88 December 2015–January 2016

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM

•

Mówimy po Polsku

ms. grow-it-all

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

WEEDS

WHEN WINTER ARRIVES, UNWANTED PLANTS MAY SPRING UP

®

Ms. Grow-It-All

®

BY AUDREY POST Ms. Grow-It-All

®

Q: After spending most of the summer and fall getting my lawn in good shape and killing the weeds in it and in my planting beds, I have a new problem: Different weeds have sprung up. What am I doing wrong?

A: Since I don’t know for sure what you’re doing, I can’t say you’re doing anything wrong. But I suspect what is happening with your lawn is simply Mother Nature shifting into a new season here in North Florida. Just as certain herbs are warm-season plants and others are cool-season plants — basil needs heat, parsley needs cool — so it also goes with weeds.

For seasonal weeds, you can do a lot to control them for the next cycle if you remove them before they flower and the wind sends the seeds all around your yard. For plants that creep, such as purslane, dig them out shortly after they sprout, while they’re small. It’s labor intensive and a lot of people would rather grab a bottle of herbicide, but that can bring its own set of problems, including toxicity to people and pets.

Many herbicides, particularly those with glyphosate, such as the Roundup brand, are “broad spectrum.” That means they don’t pick and choose between the plants you want to keep and the weeds you want to get rid of. They’ll have a negative effect on everything they touch. Don’t be tempted to use a lawn “weed and feed” formula, because this is not the time of year you want to encourage growth.

Plus, fertilizing feeds the weeds as well as whatever plant — turf grass, flowers or shrubs — you’re tending. If you decide to use a weed killer, be sure to read the label carefully and

PURSLANE

HENBIT

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM December 2015–January 2016

89

PENSACOLA SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA

ms. grow-it-all

2015 | 2016 CONCERT SEASON HIGHLIGHTS

January 9, 2016 7:30pm

SAENGER THEATRE

The Music of Elton John & Billy Joel December 31, 2015 7:00pm SAENGER THEATRE

featuring selections by Beethoven, Barber, Gershwin, Copland, and more!

with Ilana Davidson, Soprano

February 6, 2016 | 7:30pm First United Methodist Church of Pensacola

WITH Katie Ott, harp and Stephanie Riegle, flute

February 13, 2016 7:30pm SAENGER THEATRE

CALL TODAY FOR TICKETS 850.435.2533 WWW.PENSACOLASYMPHONY.COM

THIS DECEMBER

EMERALDCOASTTHEATRE.ORG 850-687-1637 90 December 2015–January 2016

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM

make sure it’s safe to use on and around your specific types of plantings. Don’t overdo it.

Here’s a list of some of the most common cool-season weeds in our region, USDA Zone 8b: CAROLINA GERANIUM: Geranium carolinianum is a multi-branched, low-growing weed with hairy stems and small leaves that resemble the Pelargonium geranium that is so popular in hanging pots. It reproduces by scattering its seeds to the wind. Pull it up before it blooms.

HENBIT: Low-growing, square-stemmed weed with dark green leaves and small purple flowers. It, too, propagates by seed.

FLORIDA BETONY: Stachys floridana is a year-round weed that will take over if you turn your back. Also known as rattlesnake weed, it grows from segmented tubers; pull one out, another will sprout. Leaves are lance-shaped with rounded margins.

LAWN BURWEED: Soliva sessilis has narrow leaves that sort of resemble the tops of carrots. This one is especially common in sandy soils.

SHINY CUDWEED: Gnaphalium americanum grows in summer or winter. It has a rosette of shiny green leaves.

PURPLE CUDWEED: Gnaphalium purpureum develops from a rosette, too, into a tall, silvery weed with yellow flower clusters at the tip.

GARDEN CHORES CORN SPEEDWELL: FOR WINTER Veronica arvensis is a low » Potted Christmas cacti creeper with two levels that spent the summer of leaves, the lower ones and fall outdoors should almost round with toothed be budding, so bring them indoors to enjoy margins and the upper their blossoms. You can ones smaller and narrower. still set them outside Small white flowers sit on on warm days, but top of the plant. temperatures below 45The key to doing battle with all these weeds is not to give up. It might take several years to get rid of some weeds. With others, such as Florida betony, the best you can hope for is to battle to a draw. Keep in mind, however, that one person’s “weed” is another person’s “wildflower.”

Some of your “weeds” might grow on you. ec

50 F might kill the flower bud, so protect them on chilly nights.

© 2015 Postscript Publishing, all rights reserved. Audrey Post is a certified Advanced Master Gardener volunteer with the University of Florida IFAS Extension in Leon County.

Email her at Questions@ MsGrowItAll.com or visit her website at msgrowitall.com.

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

» Continue to plant cool season vegetables and herbs, including parsley, dill, cilantro and sage.

» Plant the tulip and hyacinth bulbs you’ve been chilling for six weeks. Masses of flowers create a better display than scattering the bulbs. » Add fruit trees to your landscape. The period between December and February is the best time to plant dormant trees.

Take care to locate your tree to accommodate its size at maturity.

» Make sure your coldtender perennials, such as bougainvillea, are well-mulched to protect them from freezing.

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM December 2015–January 2016

91

DEAL ESTATE

in the neighborhood

Beautiful Brooks Street Has It All

BY ZANDRA WOLFGRAM PHOTOGRAPHY BY CHASE YAKABOSKI

92 December 2015–January 2016

B

etween 1940 and 1970, the population of Fort Walton Beach grew by 700 percent making the coastal beach town one of the fastestgrowing cities in the country. Today, the “city on the move” boasts a bustling Main Street filled with new businesses, shops and restaurants.

One of the most popular neighborhoods lies along a long tree-lined lane that winds along the Choctawhatchee Bay called Brooks Street. If you are traveling west, you have to traverse the Brooks Bridge, a fourlane bridge that carries you over Highway 98 at mile 223 of the Intercoastal Waterway.

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM

This bridge and street are named for John Thomas Brooks, who purchased just over 100 acres of what is now downtown Fort Walton Beach. Under the bridge is a park area named Brooks Landing that was beautified by the city not that long ago.

Like many things in Fort Walton Beach, the bridge is a work in progress. Attractions of living on Brooks Street are the proximity to downtown Fort Walton Beach and the conveniences it offers and the beauty of the bay enjoyed in a single-family home, townhome or condominium located in an old, established neighborhood, where kids still ride bikes and go Trick or Treating.

GO TO EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM FOR REAL ESTATE LISTINGS

Stately condominiums Ben Acock is a broker/owner foot three-bedroom, three-bath (left) and cheery for Emerald Wave Realty who condo built in 2006 is listed apartment buildings has been selling real estate for for $525,000 and boasts sweeplike Camp Walton Village on Alconese 14 years. As director of the ing balconies with bay views, a Avenue offer stellar Fort Walton Beach chapter of storage space and a private gacoastal views, a variety the Emerald Coast Association rage. This puts you directly on of amenities and a convenient location. of Realtors (ECAR), Acock is the water, but homes inland are knowledgeable about the value much less. In fact, the median of an investment here. price for homes sold here last “This particular area is appealing beyear was $278,000, making Brooks Street an cause it’s up and coming,” he says. “With affordable neighborhood compared to many the plans for Fort Walton Beach expansion other Emerald Coast communities this close downtown it offers a unique integration of to the area’s prized white-sand beaches. business and residential like you would find Brooks Street is a prime location accordin many bigger cities.” ing to Acock. “With waterfront in this area At press time, according to the ECAR, of Fort Walton Beach, you are close to many the average square foot price for residenamenities plus you are just a couple miles tial properties located in the Brooks Street from the Destin harbor,” he says. “You can neighborhood area was $171.47 square feet, watch the sailboats float past, and if you which given proximity to the bay is underhave a boat, you have direct access to the standably higher than the $122 square foot Destin Pass and the Gulf of Mexico.” average of Fort Walton Beach proper.

Altogether, the Brooks Street neighborIf you are looking for a waterfront expehood seems to have it all for those looking to rience without the hassle of maintenance, live the coastal lifestyle dream. “It’s as close there are a few handsome condominium deand inexpensive in a waterfront residence velopments with active listings for two- and with the quickest access to the Gulf that you three-bedroom properties. A 2,058 squarecan probably find,” Acock says. ec

(Above: L to R) The historic heart of downtown Fort Walton Beach is filled with unexpected treats like the quaint Frances Brooks Pryor Memorial Camellia Garden tucked behind downtown storefronts; The Landing is a popular and scenic respite overlooking the Santa Rosa Sound; Brooks Street is dotted with plenty of public art pieces like this one donated by the Fort Walton Beach Main Street Association.

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM December 2015–January 2016

93

DEAL ESTATE

just sold

SIT BACK AND ENJOY THE DRIVE. Affordable • Practical Reliable • Smart

649 FAIRWAY AVE., FORT WALTON BEACH

Carts Starting at $3999

ElectricCartCompany.com/ec

850-622-2000

4552 US Hwy 98 West|Santa Rosa Beach, FL (4 miles east of Sandestin between Shrimpers & Louie-Louie’s)

Offer Expires 2/28/16 • See Website for Rules and Restrictions

94 December 2015–January 2016

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM

This Home Is Where the Heart Is

T

here’s no mistaking certainty when you experience it. The buyers of a home at 649 Fairway Ave. in Fort Walton Beach knew absoBY REBECCA PADGETT lutely that it was the one for them as soon as they saw it.

In fact, the ivy-covered brick home caught their eyes even before it was on the market. A realtor was taking photos of the home when the then-prospective buyer stopped and asked to see it. The home was sold in one day.

It is easy to see why. Inside and out, this home is perfectly suited for a family. A home in which to make memories, celebrate firsts and future children. The brick façade and meticulously sculpted lawn give the home lots of curb appeal. And, by the way, it is located in the highly desirable Kenwood neighborhood.

The interior was recently updated and beautified with a fresh paint job making it move-in ready. The open entryway leads into an ample QUICK LOOK formal sitting area. The adjoining SOLD PRICE: $239,000 SQUARE FEET: 1,878 room could be used as a living room BEDROOMS: 4 or television den. The home has BATHROOMS: 2 four bedrooms and two bathrooms.

CONTACT: Matthew There is a master bed and bath leavWilliams, Remax Southern ing the other rooms available for use Realty, (850)259-6288 as children and guest rooms.

The kitchen is modern in design with plenty of cupboard space and bar seating. The dining room is spacious enough to accommodate a large dinner party and opens up onto a screened patio. The patio provides ample sunlight and leads to an in-ground pool. The generous backyard is a summer haven.

“This home has eye-catching renovations throughout. One of the best attractions is the backyard; it has an in-ground pool and screened courtyard for bug-free cookouts during the summer. It would be hard not to enjoy this home,” said Realtor Matthew Williams.

The location is within walking distance of area schools and playgrounds. It is also in close proximity to plenty of shopping, fine restaurants and military bases. All things considered, this is a picture-perfect home. ec

COURTESY OF REMAX SOUTHERN REALTY

Visit Our Showroom with the Largest Selection of “STREET LEGAL” Electric Vehicles in the Southeast.

J

o

P

OF THE ec

TO

emeraldcoastmagazine.com

in

b

WIN BIG ONLINE

the cl

u

OF THE

Text individual Top of the EC keywords below to 20673 for specific discounts

P

in

b

J

o

ec

TO

and offers from those members.

the cl

Text “DOCKOZ”

u

WIN 2 TICKETS TO THE SYMPHONY!

Text “COASTALSKIN”

Text “EC”

in

b

o

J

Exclusive tickets and prize packages to the Emerald Coast’s best events are up for grabs!

Visit emeraldcoastmagazine.com and look for the Top of the EC logo for your chance to enter and win the prize packages.

P

OF THE

ec

Offer ends January 15, 2016 Total value over $60

TO

Enter to win 2 tickets to Sinfonia Gulf Coast’s “Made in America” performance on January 29.

the

u l c

Text “EC” Text STOP to 20673 to opt out. Data rates apply.

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM December 2015–January 2016

95

CALL TODAY!

850.613.2067

partner with kitchen solvers FOR YOUR PLEASANT REMODELING EXPERIENCE.

CABINET REFACING|NEW CABINETS|STORAGE SOLUTIONS|COUNTER TOPS

emeraldcoast.kitchensolvers.com

Happy Holidays

Air Conditioning & Heating, Inc.

Let Us Design Your Comfort!

2010–2015

gulfshoreair.com • 850-897-6540 96 December 2015–January 2016

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM

DEAL ESTATE

just listed

623 LAGOON DRIVE, DESTIN

A New Destin Landmark Iconic Home is Now for Sale

COURTESY OF CINDY COLE FINE HOMES

D

BY REBECCA PADGETT

estin is known for its emerald green water, sugar sand beaches and celebrated homes including one located at 623 Lagoon Drive and known to many as “The Landmark.”

The three-story, 7,500 square foot home recently was renovated and remodeled to the studs.

The entry sprawls into a welcoming first floor complete with living room, dining room and guest quarters that include a junior master suite and two guest rooms, all with a private entrance. The intricate millwork, hardwood floors and stained wooden beams on the first floor introduce the style that carries on QUICK LOOK throughout the home.

BEDROOMS: 6 Take the stairs or hop on the elevaBATHROOMS: 6½ tor to arrive at the heart of the home, SQUARE FEET: 7,500 the second floor. An open concept LIST PRICE: $2,490,000 kitchen, dining and living areas conCONTACT: Cindy Cole, join and coincide with vast space and Cindy Cole Fine Homes, gorgeous views from floor-to-ceiling (850) 374-2226 windows. High quality appliances, a six-burner stove, custom cabinetry, granite countertops and a breakfast bar make the kitchen top-chef worthy. Additionally, the second floor offers a wet bar, a wine cellar, a guest suite and a guest bedroom.

The luxurious third floor is reserved for people fitting enough to be king and or queen of the master suite. There is a large sitting area complete with a gas fireplace and morning kitchen just inside the entry. It’s easy to imagine being curled up by the fire before bed time or sipping your morning coffee in the breakfast nook.

The master bath is stunningly stylish with copper amenities, dual vanities and two walk-in closets. The most prized feature is the spiral staircase that leads from the master suite to the rooftop widow’s walk, which provides a 360-degree view of the harbor. The third floor is complete with an exercise room and office.

When at a house on the harbor, no matter how grand the inside is you still want to spend most of your time outdoors. The harbor front patio boasts an outdoor kitchen, a heated, mosaic tile pool, plenty of space for lounging and hosting and priceless views. There are four deep-water boat slips large enough to accommodate yachts.

“It’s a tasteful blend of old world and new. The owners spared no expense nor ounce of imagination in this incredible renovation,” said listing agent Cindy Cole. One would venture to say that many others would agree. ec EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM December 2015–January 2016

97

FORGOT SOMETHING?

You’re on your way out of town and forgot to turn down the thermostat—which could waste money and energy.

Switch off worries with Cox Homelife.

SM

29

Prices stArtinG At

ASK ABOUT A FREE CAMERA

$

99

per monTh wITh addITIonal ServIce*

Thermostat not included at this service price.

*See other side for important offer details

855-750-8176 98 December 2015–January 2016

|

cox.com/homelife

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM

|

cox solutions store®

control your worries And your home.

29

Prices stArtinG At

99

$

per monTh wITh addITIonal ServIce*

ThermoSTaT noT Included aT ThIS ServIce prIce.

ASK ABOUT A FREE C AMER A

QUALIFYING PACKAGES INCLUDE: > 24/7 ProfessionAl monitorinG receive immediate notification if a sensor goes off or an alarm is tripped via text and email alerts.

> new continuous video recordinG cameras with 24-hour video recording and up to 10 days of storage viewed with any web browser, or check in with live video viewing from anywhere, anytime.

> control your home remotely You can take your home anywhere you go by using your smartphone to control your lights and thermostat, as well as lock and unlock your doors.

855-750-8176

cox.com/homelife

3 locationS

cox SolutionS Store®

fort Walton Beach – 99 ne eglin pkwy., Ste. 21 & 22 crestview – 1312 n. Ferdon Blvd.

Destin – 34904 emerald coast pkwy., Ste. 136

* Offer expires 2/29/16. $29.99/mo. includes new Cox Homelife Essential service plan with 3-year agreement and is available to residential customers with new or current subscription to one or more of Cox video, Internet and/or phone service in select Cox service areas. Certain advertised features may require Preferred service plan and additional equipment purchase. A high-speed Internet connection is required and is not included in price. Equipment fees may be extra; base equipment kit (2 window/door sensors, motion sensor, router, yard sign, and 2 window decals) included with 3-year agreement and paid install (Essential plan). Free indoor camera available with Preferred service, paid install, and 3-year agreement. Touchscreen equipment is also required and is not included. $3.00/month rental fee applies. Touchscreen remains property of Cox and must be returned to Cox upon termination of service to avoid additional charges. Applicable monthly service charges, installation, additional equipment, taxes, trip charges and other fees may apply. All prices and packages are subject to change. Homelife-only pricing available. Subject to credit approval. Other restrictions may apply. Local ordinances may require an alarm user permit. Las Vegas customers will incur an additional monthly verified response fee (currently $4.00/mo.). Service provided by Cox Advanced Services: Arizona, LLC - License No. P12-1332, Arkansas, LLC – License No. E 2014 0026, California, LLC–Alarm License #7196 & Contractor’s License #992992, Connecticut, LLC–License #N/A, Florida, LLC–License No. EF20001232, Georgia, LLC–License: Raymond Williams #LVA205602, Iowa, LLC–#C121646 & AC268, Louisiana, LLC–License F 2006, Nebraska, LLC–License #26512, Nevada, LLC–License #78331, Ohio, LLC–License #53-18-1671, Oklahoma, LLC–License #2002, Rhode Island, LLC–License #9314, Topeka, LLC – License No. 109, Wichita, LLC–License #2015-36492, Virginia, LLC–License #11-7776. ©2015 Cox Communications, Inc. All rights reserved.

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM December 2015–January 2016

99

habitat

LAWRENCE DAVIDSON

First Lady Ann Scott stands in front of the Florida Governor’s Mansion ornament collection; a unique ornament is designed each year by artist Doug Pyron. Now in their 13th year, the ornaments have become a true collectible for many Floridians. For the 2015 holiday season, the ornament will be celebrating the City of St. Augustine’s 450th birthday.

100 December 2015–January 2016

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM

Governing the Holidays WITH

SIMPLE, SOUTHERN STYLE

First Lady Ann Scott on Christmas Traditions, Holiday Decorating and Life at the Mansion

b

BY CHAY D. BAXLEY

eing holed up in a mansion for Christmas might sound a bit glamorous, but for Florida’s first family, the holiday season is in many ways traditional.

Duties are upheld, of course, with fanciful holiday celebrations honoring worthy Floridians monopolizing many of Gov. Rick Scott and First Lady Ann Scott’s evenings. Somehow though, family time, food and festive decorations still manage to take center stage.

Well, at least until some lucky local entity opens with The Nutcracker. Then those pastimes have to share the limelight. For the Sunshine State’s welltraveled first lady, no matter where her family has resided, the timelessness of the ballet has always been a welcomed tradition.

“I think the holidays are about being surrounded by family and friends,” said Ann Scott. “I’ve lived in nine states and 23 homes, including the Governor’s Mansion. I think for me, just being surrounded by family and friends is so important.”

Situated in the Florida Room at the mansion — a beautifully lighted, tastefully appointed sitting area on the north side of the estate — her words

ring extra true. Pictures of the Scotts’ adult daughters, Allison and Jordan, and their growing families punctuate nearly every vantage point. Their smiling faces have been thoughtfully placed alongside Scott’s personal seashell collection, a small library’s worth of books and an array of must-see Florida memorabilia.

“The grandchildren are taking over,” she laughed, noting that photos of longtime family friends had previously been allotted more space on her shelves.

The arrival of new family members, however, has prompted their relocation to the private side of the mansion.

Along with the freshening of decor, the Scott’s standing Christmas traditions are also being revisited as a result of their new familial additions — three grandsons and a fourth grandchild due this November.

“Our kids are grown up,” she said, “and now we have grandchildren, so our Christmas traditions are changing. But when the girls were growing up, we would typically go to church on Christmas Eve — and it was usually a 5:30 p.m. service. And then we

WATCH BEHIND-THE-SCENES VIDEO WITH FIRST LADY ANN SCOTT AT EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM December 2015–January 2016

101

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: The Florida Room at the Governor’s Mansion is a space First Lady Ann Scott says showcases her personal style.

During the holidays, touches of Florida charm and Christmas cheer can be seen throughout. At the mansion, the largest tree of the holiday season is displayed in the reception hall, often highlighting metallic decorations in gold and bronze. Also in the reception hall, the eye-catching mantel is kept green and lush with Scott’s preferred white poinsettias.

102 December 2015–January 2016

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM

PHOTOS COURTESY GOVERNOR’S MANSION FOUNDATION/RAY STANYARD

habitat

First Lady Ann Scott’s

STEPS TO A BEAUTIFUL HOME DURING THE HOLIDAYS AND BEYOND

1 Stick with the classics,

from traditional Christmas nutcrackers to everyday home furnishings.

★ 2 Keep it simple.

Utilizing neutrals and adding pops of color through accessories and art is always in style.

★ 3 Be sure to display plenty of up-to-date family photographs.

would probably grab something to eat, come home, get in our pajamas and watch The Muppet Christmas Carol.”

“The girls loved Christmas Eve service,” she added. “In fact, I asked them. I wanted to know what it was that they loved about Christmas. And it seemed like they mirrored me. The things that were always important to me became important to them, too.”

This season, the once-favored cinnamon rolls might be getting pushed out for blueberry pancakes at her daughter’s house, but for Scott, the holidays still look and feel pretty much the same. Her understated, family-centric style means that handmade ornaments from their daughters’ youth are the showstoppers on her personal Christmas tree, which is located about a six-hour drive south of Tallahassee at the family’s home in Naples, Florida.

As for the switch in breakfast preferences — the grandparents harbor no hard feelings, EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM December 2015–January 2016

103

habitat

I’ve lived in nine states and 23 homes. For me, just being surrounded by family and friends is so important.

— First Lady Ann Scott

“I find that the less (decorations) people have, the more you notice them,” she said.

“When there are too many, you don’t.”

Back at the mansion, her desired style of “casual elegance” is upheld throughout the season. Before vacations get into full swing for Thanksgiving, staffers and volunteer “elves” devote two days to dolling up the place. Last year, the color palette for the primary tree was an eye-catching gold and bronze combo. A half dozen happy helpers, three Christmas trees (in the entry way, reception hall and Manatee Garden) and countless garlands and knickknacks turn the place into a real life winter wonderland.

No fake snow — but still plenty to admire.

“I don’t like anything to be overdone or too formal,” she emphasized. “Even the Florida Room here, that’s more my style.” ec 104 December 2015–January 2016

GOVERNOR’S MANSION FOUNDATION/RAY STANYARD

she assured. They’re just glad Santa found the place.

“They want to come up with their own traditions,” smiled Scott, “just like Rick and I did.”

A diehard for the classics, Scott’s decorating mantra is always “less is more.” For the holidays, that means a nativity scene, lots of lush greenery and a traditional red and gold color scheme. On the tree itself, globes of similar colors in varying sizes and textures complement lifelong keepsakes. She also favors white poinsettias to their more brash red counterparts.

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM

READ THIS!

★

HOLIDAY OPEN HOUSE BOOK DRIVE With a focus on improving literacy rates throughout the state, First Lady Ann Scott hosted her inaugural Holiday Open House Book Drive back in 2011 — right along with another big first for the Scott family. This holiday season, just as in years gone by, the Florida Governor’s Mansion will be accepting book donations both big and small toward this mission.

“We decided that that’s going to be a tradition here,” stated First Lady Ann Scott, “that we will do a holiday open house book drive every year.

We ask everyone who comes to the mansion to please bring a new or gently used book. It doesn’t matter what ages — we’ll figure out which organizations to give them to after the holidays. We’re going to continue on with it throughout Rick’s administration.”

LAWRENCE DAVIDSON

The Governor’s Mansion all decked out for Christmas.

Below, custom-made ornaments from the Governor’s Mansion Foundation from 2003, 2008, 2014 and a rendering of the 2015 design.

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM December 2015–January 2016

105

flavor

pop

cork the

HERE’S TO CHAMPAGNE, PROSECCO AND SPARKLING WINE

BY KAREN GRANGER AND WENDY O. DIXON

’tis

the season to celebrate.

Nothing elevates an occasion more than popping open some sparkling wine or Champagne. There is such a wide range of prices and styles that a tutorial on how Champagne and sparkling wine are made and why there is such a discrepancy may be helpful.

106 December 2015–January 2016

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM

A Sparkling Wine Primer STORE IT Store sparkling wine at 45-55 degrees, or 60-65 degrees if storing for longer than one year.

The Basics of Champagne:

First and foremost, Champagne is a region in France, and any sparkling wine from a different region or country is just that — sparkling wine. Champagne is made in the méthode champenoise (also called the traditional method) from just three grapes — pinot noir, pinot meunier and chardonnay. The traditional method begins with making still wine: sugar + yeast = alcohol + carbon dioxide.

When making still wines, the byproduct CO₂ is released. Then the wine is bottled and a secondary fermentation takes place within the bottle by adding more sugar and yeast and then trapping the CO₂, creating the bubbles. Next, the spent yeast needs to be removed. This is done by a process called riddling, and in many Champagne houses it is still done by hand, and takes up to 10 weeks.

Basically the bottle is wiggled and turned daily until the sediment ends up in the neck of the upside-down bottle. It is then frozen and removed and the bottle topped off. This process is very involved and results in finer fully integrated bubbles. Champagne is truly handcrafted, and the price tag is a reflection of that workmanship.

There are other methods to getting the bubbles in wine. Charmat, or the tank method, does both fermentations in a large pressurized tank, then filters off the dead yeast and bottles the sparkling wine. The most recognizable wine utilizing Taste Test charmat is Prosecco, made from Try out your the glera grape. The final and least sparkling new desirable method is carbonating the tasting skills at the wine just like a soda is carbonated; 22nd Annual Wine World Champagne this process results in large bubbles Walkabout on that are not integrated into the Sunday, Dec. 13 wine. Both of these methods are at The Craft Bar considerably less expensive than the in Destin. Sample méthode champenoise, which is why Champagne and you can find a bottle of Prosecco for sparkling wines $10 and a bottle of Champagne in from all over the the hundreds. world along with

Why choose bubbly?

Whether you choose Champagne or another sparkler, one of the greatest assets to sparkling wine is its ability to pair with anything from fried food to sushi. The bubbles act as a palate cleanser, making each bite fresh and new. It also makes any event feel more celebratory and special. So the next time you are celebrating, why not make it truly exceptional and pop open the bubbles. Cheers! ec

savory artisan cheeses and gourmet treats from the shop’s pantry. Tickets, available for purchase at Wine World, are $20 in advance and $25 the day of the event. The ticket prices includes a $5 rebate on in-store wines.

CHILL IT Sparkling wine should be served very cold (40-45 degrees). For the p erfect chill, put the wine in an ice bath (ice and water) about 30 minutes before drinking.

OPEN IT When opening a bottle of bubbly, remove the foil (most bottles have a tear tab), untwist the wire hood to loosen it, but do not remove it. Place a folded cloth napkin over the cork and wire hood. Point the top away from yourself and others at a 45-degree angle, bracing the bottom of the bottle against yourself and twist cork and bottle in opposite directions.

FILL IT To enjoy sparkling wine at its fullest potential, use a flute, which preserves bubbles better than wide, shallow glasses.

POUR IT Slowly pour sparkling wine gently into the flute, about halfway to three-quarters full.

DRINK IT Cheers!

Source: John Morris, director of wine education at Wine World Inc., in Destin/Fort Walton Beach

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM December 2015–January 2016

107

flavor

Sparkling Wine Glossary BLANC DE BLANCS Literally translated means “white of whites.” Sparkling wines made primarily from chardonnay or other white grapes.

BLANC DE NOIRS Literally translated means “white of blacks.” Designated a white or slightly tinted wine made from black grapes, usually pinot noir.

The tint comes from the pigments in the grape skins.

CUVÉE A blend of several still wines designed to become a wellbalanced sparkling wine.

FERMENTATION The action of yeast on natural grape sugars resulting in alcohol and carbon dioxide gas.

The Evolution of Champagne Stemware

The original Champagne glass — a short, shallow saucer — is rumored to have attained its shape when Marie Antoinette, queen of France during the late 1700s, had the glasses fashioned from casts of her breasts so courtiers could toast to her health from them. It was only in the last 30 years that the flute — a stem glass with a tall narrow bowl — became the glass of choice due to its ability to keep sparkling wine’s effervescence for a longer period of time than a saucer.

CHAMPAGNE COUPE The coupe was fashionable in France from its introduction in the 1700s until the 1970s, and in the United States from the 1930s to the 1980s.

CHAMPAGNE FLUTE The flute is evolving during the nineteenth century.

From a relatively basic form, it became a much more complex glass. It can be excessively elongated with a very sharp bottom, but can also be “in trumpet,” that is, particularly wide-mouthed.

CHAMPAGNE TULIP The tulip is similar to a flute but with greater bowl space: a slim base opens to a widening bowl which then narrows slightly toward the aperture (the shape of a tulip flower). The wider bowl is beneficial as it allows a little more room for aeration of the wine.

108 December 2015–January 2016

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM

MÉTHODE CHAMPENOISE The traditional French Champagne method for producing sparkling wines, which converts a fully fermented still wine into a sparkling by a second fermentation (or méthode traditionnelle) in the same bottle in which it’s sold.

MOUSSE The ring of foam around the top of a glass of sparkling wine.

NON-VINTAGE Refers to those sparkling wines whose cuvées or blend contains wine from more than one vintage. Often used to maintain a consistent style.

RESERVE WINE Wine from previous vintages added to the cuvée for consistent quality and style.

VINTAGE The year in which grapes in a wine are harvested.

Source: chandon.com

Dennis Lichorwic, DMD Past President Florida Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry

Nisha Waits, DMD

Stephanie Baya, DMD

Julia Skinner, DMD

Phillip Estes, DMD

DestinDentist.com 850.654.8665 4635 Gulfstarr Drive, Destin, Florida 32541

PCBDentist.com 850.235.2299

309 Richard Jackson Blvd, Panama City Beach, Florida 32407

Ho Ho Glow

Create That Healthy Holiday Glow.

Treat your skin to some quality time this season at Aqua Medical Spa. From rejuvenation to restoration, our physicians and aestheticians have ALL the treatments, spa services and products on your list.

Let us help you achieve your healthiest, most beautiful skin so you can show your glow this holiday season.

SPECIAL HOLIDAY OFFERS Visit 12DaySpecial.com for details Get $20 in Spa Services FREE with your purchase of a $100 Gift Certificate.

DERMATOLOGY SPEC IA L ISTS of Florida

877-231-DERM AquaMedicalSpa.com Gulf Breeze • Niceville • Santa Rosa Beach Panama City Beach • Panama City *See spa for details. Restrictions may apply.

490-231 Holiday Ad_EmeraldC_7.25x4.875.indd 1

9/28/15 5:02 PM

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM December 2015–January 2016

109

on the menu

O

vation-worthy oysters, back-to-basics barbecue and Gulf-to-table seafood are just a few of the memorable menu items we’ve enjoyed while dining out and about along the EC.

BOSHAMPS SEAFOOD & OYSTER HOUSE’S RAW “NECKED” OYSTERS

110 December 2015–January 2016

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM

Appetizer BOSHAMPS SEAFOOD & OYSTER HOUSE, DESTIN

Eating oysters overlooking the water is delicious on a number of levels. Boshamps Seafood & Oyster House was voted Best Bar and Best Outdoor Dining by readers of EC Magazine, and when you sip a cold one overlooking the scenic Destin harboar while slurping plump, salty bites of goodness, it’s easy to see why. We enjoyed a DOZEN RAW “NECKED” OYSTERS are served with Southern cocktail sauce, “PBR” mignonette, horseradish and lemon. But they offer these beautiful bivalves served up a half dozen other ways, too. $12.95

Lunch BUCK’S SMOKEHOUSE, DESTIN

Mom may have said don’t eat with your fingers, but she didn’t say anything about not using a plate. We tried the lunch special. Our dry-rubbed barbecue PULLED PORK SANDWICH was delivered to our table wrapped in wax paper. You get a side and a drink. The butcherblock paper on the table signals that it’s OK to practice hands-on dining at Buck’s Smokehouse. In fact, licking your fingers in this case is surely seen as a big compliment. $10

Dinner SEALAND RESTAURANT, FORT WALTON BEACH

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM December 2015–January 2016

PHOTO BY CHASE YAKABOSKI

Once you finish studying the enormous menu that divides entrees into “from the land,” “from the sea” or “from Sealand,” you are well on your way to an unexpectedly upscale dining experience. Even a local favorite like GROUPER is prepared with a fresh twist. Sealand’s version is sautéed and topped with artichoke hearts, capers, lump crabmeat and lemon butter. This flavorful dish alone may very well put the “Sea” in Sealand. $28.95

111

we roll with the freshest Local Produce, Fresh Gulf Fish, Highest Quality Beef

18 Hibachi Tables | Sushi Bar Private Dining | Large Parties Welcome Open Daily for Lunch and Dinner DESTIN | 34745 Emerald Coast Pkwy | (850) 650-4688 TALLAHASSEE | 1690 Raymond Diehl Road | (850) 531-0222 PANAMA CITY BEACH | 15533 Panama City Beach Parkway | (850) 588-8403

www.osakahibachiandsushi.com

112 December 2015–January 2016

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM

dining Alys Beach

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

Blue Mountain Beach

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

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

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

Best of the Emerald Coast 2015 Winner Breakfast Lunch Dinner Outdoor Dining Live Music

$ $$

Inexpensive Moderately Expensive $$$ Expensive

MARIE'S BISTRO & BAR ★ Mediterranean. Enjoy made-to-order seafood, steak, pasta as well as sushi in a casual atmosphere. Dine in, carry out, drive through and catering. Full bar. Serving lunch 11 a.m.–2 p.m., Tues–Fri and dinner at 5 p.m. Tues–Sun. 2260 W. County Highway 30A, 850-278-6856. $$ L D BLUE MOUNTAIN BEACH CREAMERY Ice Cream. Homemade ice cream, sorbet and frozen yogurt treats. Open daily 10 a.m.–10 p.m. Cash only. 2129 S. County Highway 83, 850-278-6849. $$

Destin

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

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

(Open Memorial and Labor days.) 979 E. Highway 98, Suite F, 850-650-0499. $ B BOATHOUSE OYSTER BAR Seafood. Discover Destin’s best-kept secret. Come here for ice cold beer, raw oysters, award-winning gumbo and a great view of the Destin Harbor, and leave with a signature T-shirt from the gift shop. Open daily 11 a.m.–2 a.m. 288 B Harbor Blvd., 850-837-3645. L D BONEFISH GRILL ★ Seafood. Seafood-centric menu, plus steaks and cocktails in a warm, animated atmosphere. Open daily 4–11 p.m. 4447 Commons Drive E., 850-650-3161. $$ L D BOSHAMPS SEAFOOD & OYSTER HOUSE ★ Seafood. Located on the beautiful Destin Harbor, this seafood spot will spoil you with spectacular sunsets, sensational Gulf-to-table Southern cuisine (including award-winning oysters!) and family-friendly service all in a fun, relaxed, casual atmosphere. Open daily at 11 a.m. 414 Harbor Blvd., 850-424-7406. $$ L D BROTULA’S SEAFOOD HOUSE & STEAMER ★ Seafood/American. Fresh steamed and boiled seafood dishes featuring local Gulf fish and farm fresh produce. Craft cocktails, 12 beers on tap, creative wine list. Open daily for lunch, dinner and Sunday brunch. Destin Harbor, 850-460-8900 $$$ B CALLAHAN’S RESTAURANT & DELI American. Voted Best Locally Owned Restaurant 2008–2014, Callahan’s serves up great sandwiches, seafood specials and prime rib. Mon–Sat 10 a.m.–10 p.m. 791 Harbor Blvd., 850-837-6328. $ L D CRAB ISLAND CANTINA Mexican. Latin-inspired Mexican cuisine in a casual waterfront dining atmosphere offering the best views of Destin Harbor. Mon–Thu 11 a.m.– 10 p.m., Fri–Sat 11 a.m.–11 p.m., Sun 11 a.m.–9 p.m. 2 Harbor Blvd., 850-424-7417. $$ L D THE CRAFT BAR ★ American. Gastropub featuring a large selection of craft brews on tap along with artisan cocktails and elevated bar fare. Open daily 11 a.m.–12 a.m.

4424 Commons Dr. 850-460-7907. $$ L D EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM December 2015–January 2016

113

dining g CELEBRATE Not used give generously

g

DELICIOUSLY

DESTIN ICE SEAFOOD MARKET & DELI ★ Gourmet Takeout. Everything you need for a fresh and delicious meal. Choose from fresh fish and seafood items, pastas, salads and side dishes, Buckhead meats, decadent deserts and an assortment of wines, cheeses, spices and more.

Open daily 8 a.m.–7 p.m. 663 Emerald Coast Pkwy., 850-837-8333. $$ L D CUVEE BISTRO ★ American. Chef Tim Creehan serves up casual fine dining featuring classic Italian, French and Asian influenced dishes in a modern dining room with lively bar. Happy Hour daily. Open daily 5:30-10 p.m. 36120 Emerald Coast Pkwy. W. (Also at 12805 Highway 98 in Inlet Beach.) 850-650-8900. $$$ D DEWEY DESTIN’S HARBORSIDE ★ Seafood. One of Destin’s most popular restaurants serves up charm and award-winning seafood in a quaint house overlooking the scenic Destin Harbor. Open daily 11 a.m.– 8 p.m. 202 Harbor Blvd., 850-837-7525. $$$ L D

g

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

g

THE DONUT HOLE* ★ American. All American diner featuring home cooked comfort food, breakfast all day and fresh-baked donuts including famous Key Lime pie filled delights. 6 a.m.–10 p.m. The Shores Shopping Center, 635 Harbor Blvd.

850-837-8824. (Also located on Highway 98 in Miramar Beach and Inlet Beach) $ B L D GRAFFITI Italian. Traditional Italian favorites and house specialties like seafood pizza.

Mon–Thu 5–9 p.m., Fri–Sat 5–10 p.m. 707 E. Hwy. 98, 850-654-2764. $$ D HARBOR DOCKS ★ American. A local’s favorite, this family-owned and operated surf-andturf restaurant overlooking the Destin Harbor offers breakfast, lunch and dinner and the best sushi on the Emerald Coast. Open daily 5 a.m.–11 p.m.

538 E. Hwy. 98, 850-837-2506. $$ B L D HARRY T’S Seafood. Lounge on the beautiful patio and watch the passing boats as you enjoy an endless variety of delicious dishes. Mon–Thu 11 a.m.–10 p.m., Fri–Sat 11 a.m.–11 p.m., Sun 10 a.m.–10 p.m. 46 Harbor Blvd., 850-654-4800. $$ B L D JACKACUDA’S SEAFOOD & SUSHI Seafood. Fresh seafood, sushi, salad, sandwiches and more served in a casual atmosphere overlooking the Destin harbor. Enjoy live music and Sunday brunch. Open daily from 11 a.m. Sunday brunch at 10 a.m. 56 Harbor Blvd., HarborWalk Village, 850-424-3507. $$ L D

Treat friends & family to modern Mexican cuisine. Right now, get a $10 guest card* for you when you purchase $50 in gift cards.

Last chance to book

Private room & catering

g

for your holiday celebration

GRAnD BOULEvARD

Sandestin 850.654.5649 cantinalaredo.com *While supplies last. Guest card valid Jan. 1, 2016- Feb. 29, 2016. no cash value. Limit 2 guest cards per person, per day. not available with on-line purchase.

114 December 2015–January 2016

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM

JASMINE THAI ★ Thai. Authentic family owned and operated Thai restaurant featuring 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., 108.

850-460-7780. $$ L D JIM ’N NICK’S BAR-B-Q ★ Barbecue. Southern smokehouse barbecue. Beer and wine. Open daily 11 a.m. 14073 Emerald Coast Pkwy., 850-351-1991. $ L D JOHNNY O’QUIGLEY’S ★ American. Award-winning steak, seafood and barbecue in one of Destin’s favorite sports bars. Mon–Thu 11 a.m.–midnight, Fri–Sun 11 a.m.–1 a.m, Double Happy Hour Mon–Fri 3–6 p.m. and 10 p.m.–close. 34940 Emerald Coast Pkwy., 850-837-1015. $ L D LOUISIANA LAGNIAPPE ★ Creole. Serving Creole seafood and steaks in upscale dining room with cloth-covered tables and on a covered patio overlooking the harbor for 31 years. Open for dinner daily 5–9 p.m. 775 Gulf Shore Drive, 850-837-0881. $$$ D MAMA CLEMENZA’S EUROPEAN BREAKFAST ★ European. This award-winning breakfast is culinary perfection. Enjoy a diverse menu of authentic Old World family recipes. Open Wed–Sun 8 a.m.–1 p.m.

Holiday Plaza, 12273 Emerald Coast Pkwy. W., 850-246-6262. $$ B MARGARITAVILLE American. Escape to Jimmy Buffet’s Margaritaville for island-inspired food, fun and the “it’s five o’clock somewhere” mentality. Open daily from 11 a.m.

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

MARINA CAFÉ American. Gourmet pizzas, Creole and American cuisine. Open daily 5–10 p.m. 404 E. Hwy. 98, 850-837-7960. $$ D MCGUIRE'S IRISH PUB ★ Irish. Lively Irish bar with award-winning burgers and pub grub and the famous 18-cent Senate Bean Soup. Craft beer and ales brewed on-site and live music on the sunset deck most nights. Open daily 11 a.m.–2 a.m.

33 Highway 98, 850-650-0000. $$ L D MIMMO’S RISTORANTE ITALIANO Italian. Mimmo’s is the new hot spot in Destin for authentic Italian dishes bursting with flavor and color. Enjoy happy hour at the full bar serving authentic Italian cocktails. Catering available. Open Mon–Fri 11 a.m–10 p.m., Sat–Sun 5–10 p.m. 979 Highway 98, Suite 5, 850-460-7353. $$ L D OSAKA ★ Japanese. Known for its sushi but serves a variety of dishes, including chicken, steak and seafood. Lunch 11 a.m.–2:30 p.m., Dinner 5–10:30 p.m.

34845 Emerald Coast Pkwy., 850-650-4688 or 850-650-4689. $$ L D PANERA BREAD ★ American. Freshly made soups, salads, sandwiches on fresh baked breads and bagels, along with fresh brewed American and espresso-based coffees and baked goods. Open daily 6 a.m.–10 p.m. Destin Commons 4220 Legendary Drive. 850-837-2486. (Also at Silver Sands Premium Outlets, 10652 Highway 98 in Miramar Beach and Santa Rosa Mall, 350 Mary Esther Cut Off in Mary Esther.) $ B L D PEPITO’S ★ Mexican. Voted Best Mexican on the Emerald Coast, locals love Pepito’s for its authentic Mexican cuisine and mouthwatering margaritas. Happy Hour specials all day Mondays, including small rocks margaritas and all beer and well drinks for $1.99. Open daily 11 a.m.–10 p.m. 757 E. Hwy. 98, 850-650-7734. $$ L D RUTH’S CHRIS STEAK HOUSE ★ Steak and Seafood. New Orleans-inspired appetizers, desserts and award-winning wines. Mon–Sat 5:30–10 p.m., Sun 5:30–9 p.m. Silver Shells Resort. 1500 Emerald Coast Pkwy., 850-337-5108. $$$ D SARAH K’S GOURMET Gourmet Takeout. Chef-crafted, ready-to-heat cuisine. Jumbo lump crab cakes and fresh chicken salad are the house specialties. Open at 11 a.m. 34940 Hwy. 98, 850-269-0044. $ L D

Bruster’s & Nathan’s of Destin 4655 Gulfstarr Drive 855-269-2920 BRUSTERS.COM

The Tradition Continues

TUSCANY ITALIAN BISTRO Italian. Northern Italian cuisine featuring choice meats, fresh seafood and garden vegetables. Tues–Sun 4 p.m.–close. 36178 Emerald Coast Pkwy., 850-650-2451. $$ D WORLD OF BEER ★ American. Choose from 50 craft beers on tap and more than 500 in the cooler along with a menu of tasty tavern fare that’s crafted to go perfectly with beer. Open daily 11 a.m.–2 a.m. Destin Commons, 4285 Legendary Drive, J166, 850-424-7939. $ L D

Fort Walton Beach

EUROPEAN BREAKFAST

Best Italian 2013, 2014, 2015 Best Restaurant Okaloosa County 2013, 2014

Best Brunch 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015

Best Service, Food & Beverage 2015

AEGEAN RESTAURANT ★ Greek. Savor the flavors of the Mediterranean at this authentic Greek restaurant. Mon–Sat 10:30 a.m.–8:30 p.m. 1259 Eglin Pkwy., Shalimar, 850-613-6120. $$ L D BENJARONG THAI CUISINE & BBQ Thai and Barbecue. Barbecue, chicken, ribs, steak and spicy Thai food.

Lunch and dinner Mon–Sat 11 a.m.–9 p.m. 251 Mary Esther Blvd., 850-362-0290. $$ L D THE BLACK PEARL Steak and Seafood. Dig into some coconut shrimp and a juicy steak while enjoying a lovely view of the Gulf. Located in The Boardwalk on Okaloosa Island. Open daily 4 p.m. 1450 Miracle Strip Pkwy., 850-833-3016. $$ D BON APPETIT FRENCH BAKERY & CAFÉ ★ French. Delicious made-from-scratch French pastries, croissants and crusty breads. Soup, salads and sandwiches served 7:30 a.m.–5:30 p.m. Mon–Fri, Sat 7:30 a.m.–2 p.m. Closed Sun. 420 Mary Esther Cutoff, 850-244-2848.

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

Ask about the daily specials. Tue–Sat open at 10:30 a.m., Sun open at noon. 116 Eglin Pkwy., 850-243-9463. $ L D

12273 Emerald Coast Pkwy, Miramar Beach | 844.246.MAMA (toll free) Uptown Station, 75 Eglin Pkwy, Fort Walton Beach 850.243.0707 | ClemenzasAtUptown.com EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM December 2015–January 2016

115

a taste for ...

Something Sweet The truth about sugar is not very sweet. Overconsumption of it has been linked to a slew of health problems, from obesity to heart disease. This news might discourage your sweet tooth, but fear not. There are healthy alternatives to sugar that will leave both your body and taste buds thanking you.

Agave syrup/nectar is widely lauded for how effective it is in even the smallest doses. A product of the agave plant, this honey-like product is very sweet and therefore requires much smaller quantities than sugar in order to sweeten something to a person’s liking. However, users should look out for its high fructose content. The high fructose problem is one skirted by Stevia, carb-free and calorie-free dried leaves that, although somewhat bitter, will satisfy the sweetness craving. When selected carefully, coconut palm sugar can be high in both vitamin C and potassium. However, those who do not read labels closely enough might find themselves with a product on their hands that is mixed with just as many carbs and calories as cane sugar. The same goes for honey, which is only a healthier alternative to sugar when purchased in its raw form — otherwise it is just as dangerous as sugar. As with all things “sweet,” these alternatives are best enjoyed in moderation and with a discerning eye for ingredients. But we promise not to tell if you find yourself reaching for a second (and third) spoonful of agave. — Leanne Castro

Make any day special Locals love Shan Kishi for their exceptional sushi and Japanese cuisine. The friendly and knowledgeable staff offers the finest sushi presentations with only the freshest ingredients. With 3 locations, Shan Kishi is the perfect spot for every celebration.

SHANKISHI.COM • 3 LOCATIONS

116 December 2015–January 2016

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM

PANAMA CITY BEACH

INLET BEACH

MIRAMAR BEACH

13800 Panama City Beach Pkwy

12805 US Highway 98 E Suite E101

11275 US Highway 98 W Unit 4

(850) 249-3663

(850) 909-0106

(850) 460-8998

dining CLEMENZA’S UPTOWN ★ Italian. Award-winning classic Italian cuisine and wood-fired pizza. Parties, special events and private dining. Full-service bar and espresso bar. Open Mon–Fri for lunch, Mon–Sat for dinner.

75 Eglin Pkwy., 850-243-0707. $$ B L D HELEN BACK Pizza. The world’s finest hand-tossed pizza and cold beer in a sports bar atmosphere. Locations in Pensacola, Navarre, Crestview and Valparaiso. Open daily 11 a.m.–4 a.m. 114 Amberjack Dr., 850-796-1451. $LD HIGH TIDE RESTAURANT & OYSTER BAR ★ Seafood. Fresh locally caught seafood is the front and center at this casual eatery featuring an oyster bar and rustic retro atmosphere. Open daily 11 a.m.-9:30 p.m. 1203 Miracle Strip Pkwy. SE., 850-244-2124. $$ L D MAGNOLIA GRILL Steak, Seafood and Italian. Steak, seafood, pasta, soups, salads and desserts. Lunch Mon–Fri 11 a.m.–2 p.m. Dinner Mon–Sat, open at 5 p.m. Closed Sun. 157 SE Brooks St., 850-302-0266. $$ L D MAMA CLEMENZA’S EUROPEAN BREAKFAST ★ European. This award-winning breakfast is culinary perfection. Enjoy a diverse menu of authentic Old World family recipes. Sat 8 a.m.–noon, Sun 8 a.m.–1 p.m. Clemenza’s Uptown, 75 Eglin Pkwy., 850-243-0707. $$ B PANDORA’S Steak and Seafood. Early evening specials weekdays 5–6 p.m. Happy Hour weekdays 5–7 p.m. Weekdays 5–10 p.m. Weekends 5–11 p.m., 1226 Santa Rosa Blvd., 850-244-8669. $$$ D PRANZO ITALIAN RISTORANTE Italian. The Montalto family has been serving classic and contemporary Italian cuisine in Fort Walton Beach for nearly 30 years.

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

Grayton Beach

ANOTHER BROKEN EGG CAFÉ ★ Breakfast. Breakfast all day, plus sandwiches, patty melts, specials, soups, salads and desserts. Open 7:30 a.m.–2 p.m. Closed Mondays.

(Open Memorial and Labor days.) 51 Uptown Grayton Circle, Grayton Beach, 840-231-7835. $ B PANDORA’S Steak and Seafood. Warm, traditional steakhouse with early evening specials. Weekdays 5–10 p.m. Weekends 5–11 p.m. 63 DeFuniak St., 850-231-4102. $$ D PICOLO’S RESTAURANT Seafood. Dine on delicious fresh seafood while listening to live music. Open daily 11 a.m.–3 p.m. and 5–10 p.m. 70 Hotz Ave., 850-231-1008. $$ L D

nd

pip

er

Dr

Audubon Dr

N vd Bl

AEGEAN RESTAURANT ★ Greek. Sip an ouzo at the beautiful stone bar before savoring the flavors of the Mediterranean at this authentic Greek restaurant. Breakfast 8–11 a.m., Lunch 11 a.m.–4 p.m., Dinner 4–9 p.m. 11225 Emerald Coast Pkwy., 850-460-2728. $$ B L D

Sa

tin

Miramar Beach

Horseshoe Bayou

es nd

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

Baytowne Marina

Sun

Sa

RED BAR ★ American. A favorite among locals, visitors and celebrities and a mustvisit when in Grayton Beach. Kick back on the funky furniture and listen to live music while enjoying great food and cocktails — especially the award-winning Bloody Mary. Breakfast 7–10:30 a.m., Lunch 11 a.m.–3 p.m., Dinner 5–10 p.m. Bar open 11 a.m.–11 p.m., Fri–Sat 11 a.m.–midnight. Cash or check only, no credit cards. 70 Hotz Ave., 850-231-1008. $$ B L D

afe yC

Ba set

Blue Her on Dr Sandestin Golf Club & Beach Resort

Courtyard Sandestin at Grand Boulevard

Hwy 98

Fresh Gulf Seafood | Housemade Jellies & Dressings Breakfast & Lunch served 7am–2pm Private Events & Catering Available SunsetBayCafeSandestin.com | 850-267-7108 158 Sandestin Blvd. N. @ Linkside Conference Center Open 7 days | Breakfast · Lunch EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM December 2015–January 2016

117

dining ANOTHER BROKEN EGG CAFÉ ★ Breakfast. Award-winning breakfast all day, plus sandwiches, patty melts, specials, soups, salads and desserts. Open daily from 7 a.m.–3 p.m. Two Sandestin locations: on the bay (next to the LeCiel at Sandestin) and in The Village of Baytowne Wharf at Sandestin, (in the Village) 850-622-2050. $ B THE BEACH HOUSE American. Come here for casual beach front dining. Enjoy a cocktail at the pool bar and live music (in season). Private events available poolside and in our Sky Room. Open daily 11 a.m.–10 p.m. 4009 S. Sandestin Blvd.

850-267-4800. $$ L D

P R I M E

S T E A K S

&

S E A F O O D

BIJOUX RESTAURANT & SPIRITS ★ Steak and Seafood. Fine dining coastal cuisine with a New Orleans flair, offering the freshest Gulf seafood, prime steaks and an extensive award-winning wine list. Indoor, outdoor and private dining available.

Open daily, 4–10 p.m. The Market Shops, 9375 Emerald Coast Pkwy. W., Suite 22, Miramar Beach, 850-622-0760. $$$ D CANTINA LAREDO ★ Mexican. Boasting a contemporary décor and fiery flavor, the new addition to Grand Boulevard offers gourmet twists on Mexican favorites. Save room for dessert, and check out the Sunday brunch. Sun–Thu 11 a.m.–10 p.m., Fri–Sat 11 a.m.–11 p.m. 585 Grand Blvd., 850-654-5649. $$ B L D FAT CLEMENZA’S ★ Italian. Feel like part of the family as you enjoy homemade classical Italian cuisine. Lunch Mon–Fri 11 a.m.–2 p.m. Dinner Mon–Wed 5–9:30 p.m., Thu–Sat 5–10 p.m. Holiday Plaza/Hwy. 98, 850-650-5980. $$ L D FLEMING’S PRIME STEAKHOUSE & WINE BAR Steak. This award-winning restaurant offers prime steaks, chops, chicken, seafood, fresh salads and a variety of unique sides and desserts served in a comfortable but elegant atmosphere. Featuring 100 wines by the glass. Open Mon–Thu 5–10 p.m., Fri–Sat 5–11 p.m., Sun 4–9 p.m.

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

SEASON’S GREETINGS A hotel room could be just an elevator away making Seagars the perfect choice for a holiday celebration or intimate dinner.

Impeccable service, thoughtful dishes and more than 600 labels of the finest wines ensure a night to remember.

JOHN WEHNER’S VILLAGE DOOR BAYFRONT RESTAURANT & NIGHTCLUB ★ American. Rock your evening with dinner and dancing on the best dance floor on the Emerald Coast. Village Door Smokehouse with seating on deck overlooking the bay serving barbecue and seafood daily 5–9 p.m. The Village of Baytowne Wharf, 126 Fisherman’s Cove, 850-502-4590. $ D LOVE MEAT TENDER BBQ TO GO Barbecue. Low and slow Southern-style BBQ served to go. Open Mon– Sat 10 a.m.–7 p.m. 12671 Highway 98, Unit 208 (in the Fountain Plaza across from McDonalds), 850-424-5355. $ L D MARINA BAR AND GRILL American. Seafood, po-boys, burgers and salads overlooking the Baytowne Marina and Choctawhatchee Bay. You catch ’em, we cook ’em service. Open daily 11 a.m.–7 p.m., Breakfast Sat–Sun 8–11 a.m. Kitchen closed Mon–Tue. Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort, 9300 Emerald Coast Pkwy. W., 850-267-7778. $ B L D

8 5 0 - 6 2 2-1 5 0 0

MARLIN GRILL ★ Steak and Seafood. Fresh seafood, steaks, salads and appetizers served inside or outside. Open nightly at 5 p.m. Village of Baytowne Wharf, 850-351-1990. $$$ L D

Located at Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa

P.F. CHANG’S CHINA BISTRO ★ Asian. Sample crunchy lettuce wraps or Chinese favorites like Kung Pao Chicken in a chic atmosphere. Open Sun–Thu 11 a.m.–10 p.m., Fri–Sat 11 a.m.–11 p.m. 10640 Grand Blvd., 850-269-1806. $$ L D

R E SE R VAT I ON S

4000 Sandestin Blvd. South, Miramar Beach, FL 32550 www.Seagars.com | Contact@Seagars.com

PEPITO’S ★ Mexican. Voted Best Mexican on the Emerald Coast. Authentic Mexican cuisine, delicious margaritas and weekly specials. Open daily 11 a.m.–10 p.m. 11225 Hwy. 98, 850-269-7788. $$ L D POPPY’S SEAFOOD FACTORY Seafood. Enjoy fresh seafood, steak and poultry dishes with a view of the bay. Open 11 a.m.–9 p.m. daily. Village of Baytowne Wharf, 850-351-1996. $$$ L D ROYAL ORCHID Thai. Escape to Thailand at this authentic Thai restaurant. Sink into a traditional sunken table surrounded by pillows or dine American style at

118 December 2015–January 2016

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM

a table or booth. Thu–Tue 11 a.m.–9:30 p.m. Closed Wed. 11275 Emerald Coast Pkwy., 850-650-2555. $$ L D SEAGAR’S PRIME STEAKS AND SEAFOOD Steak and Seafood. Premium steak, fresh seafood and caviar. Open 6 p.m. daily. Hilton Sandestin. 4000 S. Sandestin Blvd., 850-622-1500. $$$ D SUNSET BAY CAFÉ American. Enjoy chef-inspired twists on classic dishes in a casual atmosphere. When you combine fresh local ingredients with innovation, experience and location, you have a recipe for a perfect 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., 850-267-7108. $ B L TOMMY BAHAMA’S RESTAURANT & BAR Caribbean. Get a taste of the islands with jerk spices, fresh fish and the best desserts on the coast as voted by readers of Emerald Coast Magazine. Open Sun–Thu 11 a.m.–11 p.m. Fri–Sat 11 a.m.–midnight.

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

2008 - Best Italian 2009 - Best Pizza 2010 - Best Pizza & Best Chef 2011 - Best Pizza, Best Italian & Best Chef 2012 - Best Italian 2013 - Best Pizza & Best Walton Restaurant 2014 - Best Pizza, Best Walton Restaurant & Best Chef 2015 - Best Pizza

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

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

Niceville/Valparaiso

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

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

PEPITO’S ★ Mexican. Locals love the authentic Mexican cuisine, margaritas and all-day Monday Happy Hour special. Open daily 11 a.m.–10 p.m.

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

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

Santa Rosa Beach

BASMATI’S ASIAN CUISINE & SUSHI Asian. Asian dishes and full sushi bar. Open 4 p.m. daily. 3295 W. Hwy. 30A, 850-267-3028. $$ D CAFÉ BOLO ★ American. Gourmet coffee, sandwiches, soups, pastries and cakes on beautiful Scenic 30A. Open daily from 7 a.m. 4368 County Road 30A, 850-267-2060. $ B L CAFÉ TANGO American. Seafood, poultry and pasta served with specialty sauces.Homemade desserts. Open Tue–Sun 5–10 p.m. 14 Vicki St., 850-267-0054. $$$ D FISH OUT OF WATER RESTAURANT Continental. Southern coastal cuisine with an Asian flair: tuna, crab cakes, shrimp and scallops. 5:30–10 p.m. daily. Located in the WaterColor Inn, 850-534-5050. $$$ D LOUIS LOUIS American. The only thing that isn’t over the top at Louis Louis is the menu pricing. The Moulin Rouge-inspired interior décor is outrageously wonderful. Dine outside or in. The menu has six tasty items, including crab cakes, panned chicken, blackened fish and a few pastas. Mon– Sun 5–10 p.m. 35 Mussett Bayou Rd., 850-267-1500. $ D

34940 Emerald Coast Pkwy, Destin (in Best Buy Shopping Center)

850-837-2373 · DestinNutrition.com We have NON-GMO, GLUTEN-FREE & VEGAN products.

Your Source for Wellness

LET’S GET

social

Facebook.com/EmeraldCoast Twitter & Instagram: @EmeraldCoastMag #loveEC EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM December 2015–January 2016

119

dining

VKI JAPANESE STEAK HOUSE & SUSHI BAR Asian. Using the freshest ingredients, this Japanese gem serves up tasty Hibachi-style stir-fry meals of steak, seafood and chicken prepared at your table as well as artfully prepared sashimi and sushi rolls. Open daily. Lunch 11 a.m.–3 p.m., Dinner 4:30–9:30 p.m.

4552 Highway 98, Santa Rosa Beach, 850-267-2555. $$ L D

Friday, January 22, 2016

The Palms of Destin Resort and Conference Center

Doors open at 6 p.m.

$35 per person

Social Hour, Hors d' oeuvres, Dessert Tasting and Voting, Awards, Silent Auction and Entertainment.

All attending can vote for their favorite dessert.

Ticket info:

(888) 271-8778

www.gscfp.org

Tickets available at: The Center for Cosmetic & Family Dentistry, Destin Frillseekers, Destin Shear Twist, Niceville

VUE ON 30A ★ American. Seafood, beef, poultry, lamb, veal, pastas, soups and bisques. Open Tues–Fri 11 a.m.–2:30 p.m., Wed–Sat 5–9 p.m.

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

Seaside & Seagrove Beach

45 CENTRAL American. Enjoy big wines and small plates in an intimate atmosphere. Open daily 11 a.m.–mindnight. 45 Central Square, Seaside, 850-231-4545. $$ L D ANGELINA’S PIZZA & PASTA Italian. Authentic homemade pizza pie and Italian dishes in a casual atmosphere. Lunch and dinner daily: 11 a.m.–9:30 p.m. 4005 E. Hwy. 30A, 850-231-2500. $ L D BUD & ALLEY’S WATERFRONT RESTAURANT Seafood. A pioneer of farm- and sea-to-table dining serving fresh seafood, steak and vegetarian dishes. Famous bell ringing tradition with happy hour specials daily at sunset overlooking the Gulf. Open 11:30 a.m. Mon–Fri. Roof bar open 11:30 p.m.–2 a.m. in summer.

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

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

Magnolia Grill fort walton beach

tom & peggy rice, proprietors

(850) 302-0266

www.magnoliagrillfwb.com bridal luncheons • wedding rehearsals unique receptions

120 December 2015–January 2016

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM

THE PIZZA BAR AT BUD & ALLEY’S Italian. Savor artisan cheese, fresh salads, antipasto dishes, homemade soups, seasonal vegetables, hearty pastas and homemade wood-fired Neapolitan pizza. Experience these authentic flavors family-style in the courtyard, fire-side at the bar, and on the veranda overlooking the Gulf. Open daily from 11 a.m. 2236 E. County Road 30A, Seaside. 850-231-3113. $$ L D SEAGROVE VILLAGE MARKET CAFÉ Steak and Seafood. Enjoy surf-and-turf and a glass of wine, then shop for gifts and souvenirs in the adjacent gift shop. Open 10:30 a.m.– 8:30 p.m. daily. 3004 S. County Rd. 395, 850-231-5736. $$ L D THE TACO BAR AT BUD & ALLEY’S Mexican. Shake the sand off your feet, choose a colorful table and get ready to experience South-of-the-Border favorites —Florida style. Baja fish tacos, home-made guacamole, burritos, top shelf margaritas, and ice-cold cerveza. Open daily from 11 a.m. (in season). 2236 E. Country Road 30A, Seaside, 850-231-4781. $$ L D V SEAGROVE RESTAURANT Seafood. Chef David Cunningham serves up fresh seafood and produce that is locally sourced in a resort casual atmosphere. Open Tue–Sat at 6 p.m. Closed Sundays. 2743 E. County Highway 30A, Seagrove, 850-468-0973. $$$ D ec

Step out of Destin and into an authentic Italian Experience!

Lunch & Dinner Specials Happy Hour | Take Away Reservations | Catering Private & Special Events

979 US HWY 98 E

| Destin (in the 98 Palms Shopping Plaza) 850.460.7353 | EatMimmos.com |

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM December 2015–January 2016

121

the last word

’Tis the Season for True Love And a time for giving … and receiving

w

BY STACEY MAY BRADY

hen I was dating my future husband very early on in our courtship, I had to sit him down and have a serious and somewhat sensitive conversation with him. No, it had nothing to do with him being a Yankee. But it did have something to do with family values and perceptions. And true love.

I took Mike’s hand in mine and looked into his brown eyes to explain that, in my family, presents equal love. As in, give me a present and I will know that you truly love me. As in, the more presents you give me and, in some cases, the more expensive the gift, the more likely I will be to see that ’til death-do-wepart notion as conceivable.

I know this will be shocking to some and perhaps confusing or just plain sad to others.

Hey, don’t judge me lest you walk a mile in my fabulous yet excruciatingly painful bejeweled shoes. Once I knew that Mike and I might be meant for each other, I threw away pretense and got honest. I didn’t want him guessing or getting stuck in a guy fugue of “I have no idea why she is mad or what I have done.”

Mike was delighted! He found my slightly left-of-center candor, and that of my family, refreshing. My family’s Southern culture of “loud and opinionated” resonated with his own inner desire to tell it like it is, not how you think people want to hear it. (Though, of course, in Southern culture we are quite capable of telling it exactly as it is not, so as to not hurt someone’s feelings, bless their hearts.)

I remember the first time Mike observed my family in our natural habitat, the kitchen.

We were all talking at the same time, over each other, trying emphatically to be heard and make our points. There was wild gesticulation as voices rose and it was hard to 122 December 2015–January 2016

make out anything anyone was saying. And then the unthinkable happened. My mother turned to Mike and said, “Let’s ask Mike what he thinks.” I’m pretty sure Mike’s reply was to ask where the bathroom was.

In all fairness, Mike was a great sport and loved the energetic high of my family. Especially since my family’s ethos is pretty much the polar opposite of Mike’s upbringing in what I affectionately call “the eggshell family.”

The members of Mike’s family are salt of the earth people. Fine and loving and kind.

They are wise and very intelligent. They are also very quiet. All of the Brady’s are great listeners — I know, lucky for Mike! I used to joke to Mike that a snippet of his family’s life would be a good SNL skit, “The Eggshell Family.” It goes like this: the entire family is sitting in the living room, ostensibly have a conversation, when, dut-dut-duhhh — the phone rings!

The ensuing “skit” continues like this (the speakers are interchangeable): “Would you like for me to answer the phone? Unless someone else would rather answer it.”

“Oh, I don’t mind if you answer it … unless you want me to answer it.”

“That is fine with me if you are sure.”

“OK, you are welcome to answer it … if you are sure … unless he/she wants to answer it.”

“Or someone else wants to…”

And, yup, the phone stops ringing. Talk about your culture of polite discourse.

OK, maybe I’m embellishing somewhat and there could be a bit of artistic license being taken here in describing our families. But I stand by my assertion that presents equal love … just in case Mike reads this little ditty. ec

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM

Catherine Hicks catherineflys@gmail.com (850) 267-0013 Office 850-586-5301 Cell

William Flynn wmflynn@cox.net (850) 267-0013 Office 850-428-2424 Cell

Caribe - Miramar Beach This four bedroom, three and one half bathroom Mediterranean style home is located within the gated gulf-front community of Caribe. In addition to 2,700 square feet of living space, this home features a wrap around porch, outdoor fireplace and lush European garden. Beautifully detailed with ornate fixtures, upgraded appliances and an expansive living area, this unique home is a favorite among many architectural admirers.

148 Rue Martine

1,399,000

$

Royce W. Mitchell

Broker www.roycemitchell.com Royce.Mitchell@penfedrealty.com (850) 267-0013 Office (850) 737-0567 Cell

Sanctuary by the Sea - Scenic Highway 30A This luxurious corner unit condominium offers over 4,000 square feet of gulf-front 1363 W County Highway 30A Unit 1129 living space. With three bedrooms, three baths and two half baths, the home features gulf views from the expansive 50 foot balcony, as well as the living room, kitchen, dining room and master bedroom. The home theater, gourmet kitchen and open floor plan make this home ideal for gulf-front entertaining.

2,450,000

$

www.BHHSPenFed.com | (850) 267-0013 7684 W County Highway 30A | Santa Rosa Beach, FL Š2014 BHH Affiliates, LLC. Real Estate Brokerage Services are offered through the network member franchisees of BHH Affiliates, LLC. Most franchisees are independently owned and operated.

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices and the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices symbol are registered service marks of HomeServices of America, Inc.ÂŽ Equal Housing Opportunity.