Emerald Coast Magazine February - March 2019

FOREHAND PROGRESS: DESTIN PRODIGY CLIMBS PROFESSIONAL TENNIS LADDER

Hurricane’s Silver Lining: Michael brings people together

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Metal Is His Medium

Sculptor fashions curves of steel

Swept Off Their Feet

Aerial yoga elevates students

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February–March 2019

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Contents

FEB/MAR 2019

FEATURES

72 NET GAINS

Alexa Guarachi of Destin is moving up the professional tennis ladder and hopes to play in the 2020 summer Olympic Games in Tokyo.

by STEVE BORNHOFT

76

AFTER THE STORM

To everything that Hurricane Michael put asunder, there has been an opposite and equal reaction: People are coming together.

by STEVE BORNHOFT and HANNAH BURKE

photography by TODD DOUGLAS PHOTOGRAPHY

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Contents

FEB/MAR 2019

52 19 Trainer Susan Dunnam finds that bungee cords provide a foundation for fitness programs.

42 WHAT’S IN STORE

24 CHAMPIONS Orphaned raccoons, injured raptors and the Emerald Coast Wildlife Refuge have moved into a new home.

28 PERSONALITY Duke

Pope has been a driving force behind the growing popularity of lacrosse across Northwest Florida.

30 PETS When stocking

your aquarium, be aware that not all fish swim together in peace and harmony.

PANACHE

33 CITIZEN OF STYLE If

EXPRESSION

49 A RT Improbably,

sculptor Paul Saviskas got his start as a helper in his father’s parts fabrication shop.

52 M USIC Jerry Garcia

and the Grateful Dead live on in the music of the Graytones.

58 BOOKS The West

Florida Literary Foundation inspires writers to produce their best work.

GASTRO & GUSTO

65 D INING OUT The steaks at The District are enough to sate two hearty appetites.

Coast Theatre Company serves children as an introduction to the performing arts.

February–March 2019 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

70 L IBATIONS The

Cajun Luau cocktail at Broussard’s is the perfect antidote to cayenne-spiked dishes.

A BODES 93 INTERIORS

12 14 122 134 138

PUBLISHER’S LETTER EDITOR’S COLUMN SOCIAL STUDIES DINING GUIDE POSTSCRIPT

FOREHAND PROGRESS: DESTIN PRODIGY CLIMBS PROFESSIONAL TENNIS LADDER

Hurricane’s Silver Lining: Michael brings people together

Contemporary bathrooms are flush with sleek lines and cool fixtures.

+

Metal Is His Medium

Sculptor fashions curves of steel

Swept Off Their Feet Aerial yoga elevates students

56 S TAGE The Emerald

you’ve got a penchant for pearls, Munika Karim has a versatile accessory for you.

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IN EVERY ISSUE

spawned by the sea are as venerable as a sturdy ship.

Area merchants will enhance your home, outfit you for outdoor adventure and fulfill your art quest.

102 GARDENING Now is the time to turn your yard into a food forest.

36 FASHION Styles

19 HEALTH & FITNESS

ground covers are thirsty for water.

ON THE COVER:

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Shrimp, salads and skewers

Hurricane Michael opened their hardware store to the sky, but did nothing to dampen the devotion of Mayor Al Cathey and his wife, Carol, to the close-knit community of Mexico Beach.

It’s where their hearts lie.

PHOTO BY JEREMY COWART

PHOTOS BY TODD DOUGLAS PHOTOGRAPHY (19, 52), NIXKI / ISTOCK / GETTY IMAGES PLUS (68) AND COURTESY OF AMERICAN STANDARD (93)

THE WAVE

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98 EXTERIORS Not all

LAID BACK LUXURY

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Contents

FEB/MAR 2019

SPECIAL SECTIONS AND PROMOTIONS

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WOMEN’S PROFILES

March is Women’s History Month. We profile Emerald Coast women whose dedication, passion, creativity and values make them exceptional.

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ARCHITECTURAL & DESIGN ELEMENTS From the inside

out, ADE provides the latest and greatest in home design.

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CM TAYLOR CONTRACTING

From concept to custom builds, CM Taylor strives to make your house into a home.

↑ BEST OF THE EMERALD COAST RECAP

Relive the event that honored winners of our 2018 Best of the Emerald Coast readers’ poll.

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DESTIN PLASTIC SURGERY

William Burden spotlights Voluma, a volumizing injectible, talks Botox for men and explains why his practice and staff are the most trusted in the industry.

DEAL ESTATE

This Seagrove stunner is the pinnacle of beachfront living with impressive views, exquisite architecture and ultimate comforts.

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SACRED HEART FOUNDATION

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

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THE JEWEL Located in Grand Boulevard, The Jewel sparkles as a treasure trove of bright and bold baubles.

61

SERENITY ON THE FARM

Arnett’s Gulfside Farm and Stables encourages visitors to retreat into 20 acres of pure North Florida nature accompanied by friendly horses.

NEXT ISSUE

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DIXIELECTRICAR Zip and

zoom in a customized cart.

Dixielectricar sells, services, stores and repairs golf carts.

CALENDAR Upcoming events include the South Walton Wine & Food Festival, Emerald Coast Theatre Company performances and 5K road races.

Spring Gift Guide ◆ Medical Profiles ◆ Northwest Florida Weddings PROMOTION

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PHOTOS BY JIM CLARK (130), JACQUELINE WARD IMAGES (116) AND COURTESY OF ARNETT’S GULFSIDE FARM AND STABLES (61)

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a simple, beautiful life ®

SEASIDEFL.COM EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

February–March 2019

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EMERALD COAST MAGAZINE

VOL. 20, NO. 1

FEBRUARY–MARCH 2019

PRESIDENT/PUBLISHER BRIAN E. ROWLAND

EDITORIAL EDITOR Steve Bornhoft STAFF WRITER Hannah Burke CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Elizabeth Goldsmith, Martha J. LaGuardia Kotite, Thomas J. Monigan, Audrey Post, Leisel Schmidt, Gary Yordon,

CREATIVE DIRECTOR OF PRODUCTION AND TECHNOLOGY Daniel Vitter CREATIVE DIRECTOR Jennifer Ekrut ART DIRECTOR Saige Roberts PUBLICATION DESIGNERS Sarah Burger, Shruti Shah GRAPHIC DESIGNER Amanda Brummet CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Michael Booini, Jim Clark, Jeremy Cowart, Dan Garner Photography, Epic Photo Co., Steven Gray, Nikki Headrick, Karen Holder, Scott Holstein, Robert Hradil, Jacqueline Ward Images, Michael K. Photography, Kate Pierson, Saige Roberts, Shelli Allen Photography, Todd Douglas Photography, Nick Tomecek, Allison Yii

SALES, MARKETING AND EVENTS VICE PRESIDENT/CORPORATE DEVELOPMENT McKenzie Burleigh Lohbeck SALES MANAGER, EASTERN DIVISION Lori Magee Yeaton SALES MANAGER, WESTERN DIVISION Rhonda Lynn Murray DIRECTOR OF NEW BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT, EASTERN DIVISION Daniel Parisi DIRECTOR OF NEW BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT, WESTERN DIVISION Dan Parker ADVERTISING SERVICES COORDINATORS Tracy Mulligan, Lisa Sostre ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES MaKenna Curtis, David Doll, Julie Dorr, Margaret Farris, Darla Harrison, Jennifer Sheffield, Linda Powell MARKETING MANAGER Kate Pierson SALES AND MARKETING WRITER Rebecca Padgett SALES AND EVENTS COORDINATOR Mackenzie Little SALES AND EVENTS ASSISTANT Abby Crane INTEGRATED MARKETING COORDINATOR Javis Ogden CLIENT SERVICES COORDINATOR Charles Shelton

OPERATIONS ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES DIRECTOR Melissa Spear CUSTOM PUBLISHING MANAGER Sara Goldfarb CLIENT SERVICES REPRESENTATIVE/PRODUCTION SPECIALIST Melinda Lanigan CUSTOM PUBLISHING EDITOR Jeff Price ACCOUNTING ASSISTANT Amber Dennard RECEPTIONISTS Natalie Kazmin, Kirsten Terhofter

DIGITAL SERVICES DIGITAL EDITOR Janecia Britt

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EMERALD COAST MAGAZINE emeraldcoastmagazine.com facebook.com/emeraldcoast twitter.com/emeraldcoastmag instagram.com/emeraldcoastmag pinterest.com/emeraldcoastmag youtube.com/user/emeraldcoastmag ROWLAND PUBLISHING rowlandpublishing.com

EDITORIAL OFFICE 1932 Miccosukee Road, Tallahassee, FL 32308. (850) 878-0554 SUBSCRIPTIONS One year (6 issues) is $30. Call (850) 878-0554 or go online to emeraldcoastmagazine.com.

Single copies are $3.95. Purchase at Barnes and Noble in Destin and Pensacola and Books-A-Million in Destin, Fort Walton Beach and Pensacola.

CUSTOMER SERVICE & SUBMISSIONS Emerald Coast Magazine and Rowland Publishing, Inc. are not responsible for unsolicited manuscripts, photography or artwork. Editorial contributions are welcomed and encouraged but will not be returned. Emerald Coast Magazine reserves the right to publish any letters to the editor.

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Copyright February 2019 Emerald Coast Magazine Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is prohibited.

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from the publisher

We’ve decided to dedicate this issue to the heart.

That all-giving organ continues to stand out as Panama City, Mexico Beach and other parts of Northwest Florida try to recover — in some places all too slowly — from the devastating effects of Hurricane Michael.

You’ve read the stories of the human response to the hurricane, among the most intense ever to hit the United States. Neighbors, citizens, businesses and organizations near and far mobilized almost immediately in the wake of the storm, illustrating that human tendency to act in the face of suffering.

They cleared away debris. They delivered supplies. They started fundraisers and food drives. They opened their checkbooks and homes.

They poured out their hearts.

For thousands, life still hasn’t returned to normal. For many, it never will. Yet the outreach continues as the heart of the Emerald Coast — its people — endures.

We share in this issue stories about the relief efforts and the human connections that the hurricane inspired. Consider the cover, which shows Mexico Beach Mayor Al Cathey and his wife, Carol, lying near hurricane rubble on an oversized heart.

That’s part of a photo project that aims to help in the recovery of Mexico Beach through neverforgottencoast.com and stories of residents who found themselves in Michael’s destructive and life-changing path. The photo project and website represent a creative collaboration of Alex Workman and his wife, Chelsea, and nationally acclaimed photographer Jeremy Cowart.

In some other Bay County areas, Sonder Project co-founder Ashley Horsley and about two-dozen other volunteers worked on roofs, cleared yards and did what they could to provide comfort.

Horsley points out in our “Forging Connections” article: “I know we’re not going to be able to go in and fix everything, but I think if we take it one step at a time, we have the ability to effect change.”

Of course, Emerald Coast hearts continue to use their heads in efforts to solve various problems. Environmental champion Kelly Layman and a group of volunteers are trying protect Northwest Florida’s water supply through Safe Water for Walton, a nonprofit organization dedicated to studying and educating the public on the health of water sources across Walton, Bay, Jackson, Holmes, Washington and Okaloosa counties.

Layman and Safe Water for Walton have brought a national movement called Operation Medicine Cabinet to Walton County. Through the effort, residents can discard unused or expired medications by taking them to collection points instead of flushing them down the toilet.

Imagine the problems from accumulation of those chemicals into our aquifers and their effects on fish, plants and the water we drink.

You’ll be hearing regularly about a collection day on which you can drop off old medications, which will be safely incinerated in Bay County.

So here’s to Layman and Safe Water for Walton, which, incidentally, joined businesses and supplied victims of Hurricane Michael with water, sanitation tablets and storage jugs.

Let’s follow these people and organizations and show some heart. Let’s do one thing that will make a difference for our neighbors and for one of the most special places on the planet, Northwest Florida.

Happy Valentine’s Day, and let’s welcome spring with an open heart.

BRIAN ROWLAND browland@rowlandpublishing.com

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editor’s letter

SUBJECT MATTERS The best sources speak from experience

To support our continuing strategic thinking effort, the University has contracted with a consultant who will facilitate an approach designed to create a customized resource allocation model that reflects our institution’s unique strengths, culture and values.

This will be an inclusive and iterative process that will rely heavily upon feedback from the campus community.

Might the university find itself asking, “What if you stage an inclusive strategic planning exercise and nobody comes?”

I thought back to my professor friend recently when I was pursuing a story about how a storm like Michael affects marine and estuarine life, a pretty straightforward and benign inquiry, if I may say so.

I began by contacting the National Marine Fisheries Service lab in Panama City Beach. I was referred to the lab director, who was not in. I left him a voicemail.

I didn’t hear from him. Instead, I was contacted by a National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration employee in Tampa to whom my call had been referred. She asked me to email her with a list of specific questions. I did.

And, my questions — “What species or communities of species are most affected?” and three others — were then passed along to a public information officer with the Florida Fish & Wildlife Commission. She called me and told me to expect answers from experts within a few days.

After 10 days, I had heard nothing. I called her back. I could hear her pecking keys as she scrambled to retrieve my emailed questions. She found them and again assured me she

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February–March 2019 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

would get them in front of the right people.

And, a day or so later, the PIO did email me comments she had obtained from a staff biologist, who at one point referred to hurricanes as “perturbations.” A sample: For the benthic habitats and associated communities on the shelf, unfortunately, there is little information on monitoring changes in species communities regarding hurricane impacts. We expect there is reworking of sediments, which will bury some low-relief hard bottom habitats as well as expose others. Fishes and invertebrates associated with the buried habitats will be displaced; some may find the newly exposed habitats. It may take a while for the newly exposed hard bottom to establish encrusting organisms such as sponges and gorgonian corals, so the habitats may be different.

SAIGE ROBERTS

A longtime buddy of mine with whom I worked for years at the Panama City News Herald teaches journalism at a state university in Kentucky where the art and science of reporting and writing has yet to be folded into a College of Communication — they have some catching up to do; journalism really has no place in a post-fact era.

He is the Bernie Sanders of campus politics, a reformer who attracts an intense and progressive following, but who has fallen short three times in running for faculty regent.

Bureaucracy frustrates him and campus leadership, he finds, is too far removed from students and campus life.

By way of underscoring his concern, he supplied me with a portion of a memo written by his dean that he is convinced was produced through use of a website — you can look it up — called the BS Generator.

The excerpt …

I was otherwise provided with a link to research accessible only to members of the Coastal & Estuarine Research Foundation.

And, finally, I did as I should have done in the first place. I phoned my friend Jack Rudloe, a Panacea author, naturalist and specimen collector. I might note that I have listened to Rudloe rant from time to time about fisheries researchers and policy makers who spend almost no time in the field.

Rudloe — see the story on page 83 — passionately and authoritatively discussed the role and effects of hurricanes in the marine world. He directed me to passages on the subject in his books, summarized relevant research, petitioned for productive disposal of woody storm debris, shared observations he has collected through decades on the water, took a breath and asked me how I had been doing.

Connection — ours to each other, his to the water, mine to the water — made for productive conversation free of BS. What the world needs now is connection, sweet and genuine connection, no not just for some, but for everyone.

Imperturbably,

STEVE BORNHOFT

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One grand prize winner will get TWO TICKETS TO THE SOUTH WALTON BEACHES WINE & FOOD FESTIVAL at Grand Boulevard on the Emerald Coast from April 25–28 and a WEEKEND GETAWAY AT THE HENDERSON, A SALAMANDER BEACH & SPA RESORT. Hosted by Destin Charity Wine Auction, the 2019 South Walton Beaches Wine & Food Festival features celebrity winemakers, distillers, chefs, brewmasters and entertainers for a four-day celebration benefiting children in need in Northwest Florida.

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ONLINE EXCLUSIVE

Be in the know with our weekly round-ups of can’t-miss events. Head to EmeraldCoastagazine.com for everything from pop-up parties and concerts to bottomless mimosas and cooking classes.

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LET’S GET SOCIAL

Stay up to date with the latest happenings and biggest giveaways around town by following us on social media. Articles, the latest news and stellar images are at your fingertips.

FACEBOOK

Emerald Coast Magazine

February–March 2019 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

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PHOTOS BY MICHAEL K. PHOTOGRAPHY (THE HENDERSON), DGLIMAGES / ISTOCK / GETTY IMAGES PLUS AND COURTESY OF SOUTH WALTON BEACHES WINE & FOOD FESTIVAL (WINE)

Visit our Beauty Links blog at EmeraldCoastMagazine.com to read more on the “Five Reasons Why Winter Is The Best Time for Vein Treatments.”

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Beyond Tallahassee’s universities and politics, there’s a special place that brims with award-winning restaurants, local craft breweries, gorgeous trails and spring festivals like the Red Hills International Horse Trials, Springtime Tallahassee, Southern Shakespeare Festival, LeMoyne Chain of Parks Art Festival, and Word of South Festival. Plan your trip now.

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FEB/MAR 2019

A CONSCIOUS, COOL COMPENDIUM OF COASTAL STUFF

→

GETTING ELEVATED: Susan Dunnam is ready for takeoff at her fitness studio, Destin Pilates and Aerial.

HEALTH & FITNESS

LIFE LESSONS ALOFT

At Destin studio, bungee fitness takes off

by HANNAH BURKE

CHAMPIONS photography by TODD DOUGLAS PHOTOGRAPHY

Facilities Upgrade

|| PERSONALITY

Lacrosse Nets Fans

One Fish, Two Fish

|| PETS

One Fish, Two Fish

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THE

wave ← Susan Dunnam demonstrates her flexibility while stretching on a piece of Reformer equipment. She finds that personality is a key ingredient in connecting with trainees.

W

e’re often told to be the change we want to see in the world but lack the gumption to bring it about.

It’s too much work, you may think.

I’m just one person.

Or, worst of all: I’ll start tomorrow.

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

At the end of the day, they’re excuses, and for movers and shakers like Susan Dunnam, they’re never an option.

As to shaking, your muscles will be shaking after you spend time moving with Dunnam at Destin Pilates and Aerial, where she and her team of trainers have pioneered a modern fitness movement.

But before she could transform clients — be it through indoor bungee jumping or a Pilates session with Reformer equipment — Dunnam had to undergo a metamorphosis of her own.

Raised in Memphis, Tennessee, Dunnam can’t recall a time when she was not moving.

“My family had a tennis court in our backyard, so we were all very active,” Dunnam said. “If I wasn’t there, I was skating or playing basketball. Some days I

recalled. She headed to New Orleans and achieved a mat certification through an intensive Pilates workshop.

In 2009, she held her first class on a friend’s porch, with a single client.

Now, almost 10 years later, Dunnam instructs hundreds and is certified through the PhysicalMind Institute, Balanced Body University, Power Pilates and a 700-hour comprehensive course under Ellie Herman.

Herman, who wrote Pilates for Dummies and invented the essential Pilates Springboard, is an enduring inspiration for Dunnam.

“When you’re getting certified, it’s easy to read up on all the anatomy, kinesiology and technique you need to know. What can’t be taught is to be a personality like Herman. You can’t imitate other leaders. would just take off on my bicycle and ride You absolutely have to find your own around the neighborhood all day long.” voice, because the art of teaching is a During the ’70s, she says, that activity whole different animal.” caught up with her. A horse riding Dunnam also knows it’s important to incident resulted in back injuries that were acquaint the client with that voice because exacerbated later by two auto accidents. it will be the guiding light of his or her “In the ’90s, when I was living in Aspen, fitness journey. It’s why she welcomes each Colorado, I would still snowboard despite new client at Destin Pilates and Aerial with my bad back. It was like the Wild West on a one-on-one session on the Reformer. the slopes, people would crash into each The easy-to-use, although awkward other all the time, and that wasn’t doing for first-timers, Reformer equipment anything to help. When my chiropractor involves lying on a mobile carriage, which finally encouraged me to try a Pilates may be pushed or pulled with scalable class … that was it.” resistance. While placing your feet in Finally, that dull, nagging pain in her the stirrups may at first feel like a trip to spine began to dissipate. After doing the gynecologist, Dunnam swiftly guides yoga for 15 years, Dunnam’s relief from your movements into a rhythmic ballet a single Pilates session had her hooked. that awakens each muscle.

You can imagine her disappointment It’s perfect training for athletes, elderly when she migrated back down south, only folks looking to alleviate pain and newbies to find the Destin area didn’t who previously thought have a Pilates studio. Just like Pilates was a type of pasta. that, Dunnam’s back began “When you’re counting DESTIN PILATES to go out, prompting a visit down the minutes while AND AERIAL to the chiropractor every you run on the treadmill, 36150 Emerald three weeks or so. it feels like work,” Dunnam Coast Parkway, Destin “I didn’t really think about said. “All of my clients are (850) 460-2828 it, I just knew I had to go out surprised by how fast a class destinpilates.com and get certified,” Dunnam will fly by because they’re photography by TODD DOUGLAS PHOTOGRAPHY

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having so much fun. You can tell, just by looking around, that we like to think outside the box when it comes to fitness.”

She’s referring, of course, to the various silks, suspensions and bungee cords dangling from the studio’s 15-foot high ceiling.

Inspired by the graceful, acrobatic choreography behind Pink’s 2010 Grammy performance, Dunnam was inspired to try aerial yoga for herself. The buzz attracted the attention of aerialist Leslie Vaughn, a renowned member of the Cirque de Soleil family, who drops by the studio to teach the occasional workshop.

“There are no divas in our studio,” said Dunnam.

“We encourage, not discourage, by bringing in these experts. Leslie is so humble, so eager to teach you what she knows. The same goes for all my ladies in here. We’re likely more excited about you meeting a milestone than you are!”

Indeed, Dunnam’s enthusiasm kept me going while I attempted the studio’s latest craze, bungee jump fitness. While Dunnam swung from the rafters with the grace of a swan during our “freestyle” warmup, I “There are no divas was like a spider caught in in our studio. We a hurricane.

Bungee fitness, which encourage, not leaked into the states discourage, by bringing from Thailand a few years in these experts. … ago, first appeared in an Arizona studio. When We’re likely more the asking price for a excited about you franchising opportunity meeting a milestone was too much, Dunnam decided to rig up a system than you are!” of her own.

— Susan Dunnam, owner Our one-hour, airborne of Destin Pilates and Aerial session consisted of dancing on mini-trampolines to ’80s throwback jams, feeling like a kid again as we defied gravity. Then, we cooled down with a little yoga.

Yes, it was the most fun I’ve ever had working out.

Yes, I was sore the next day in places that I didn’t even know existed.

Dunnam makes it clear that, above all else, her studio is a place of healing.

“Eight years ago, a client came to me just before her 70th birthday,” Dunnam recalled. “Her husband was getting worried because she could barely get in and out of a car. We started with her footwork, achieving little things, like being able to get up from a chair with ease. Today, she’s still with me and more mobile than her husband. He can’t keep her off the golf course.

“I’m not just teaching people how to exercise. I’m teaching them how to live.” EC

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February–March 2019

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←

Emerald Coast Wildlife Refuge executive director Carol Andersen spends some quality time with Merlin, an umbrella cockatoo and a refuge “ambassador.” The refuge obtained the bird after it had been subjected to a high-stress environment that caused it to pluck out its feathers.

CHAMPIONS

FACILITIES UPGRADE

For wildlife on the mend, a new home

by THOMAS J. MONIGAN

New Location

Emerald Coast Wildlife Refuge is relocating and expanding to Clopton’s Circle, near East Bay and just off State Road 87 in Navarre.

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T

he Emerald Coast Wildlife Refuge has moved to a new home in Navarre.

“We’re planning for our grand opening to be March 1,” said executive director Carol “Stormy” Andersen. “For the first time in our history, we’ll have purpose-built facilities.”

When it was incorporated as a nonprofit organization in 2004, the refuge operated out of volunteer homes. It was later located in Destin and then on Okaloosa Island. Its coverage area extends from Escambia County to western Bay County.

Most people are familiar with the rescue of sea creatures or birds, as well as woodland creatures such as foxes or raccoons.

But only refuge insiders know that the organization dealt with 127 different species last year.

“We might get a critter in here that we’ve never seen before,” Andersen said, “so our wildlife technicians and our interns will get online, and they’ll call whatever specialist there is out there to make sure we’re treating those animals appropriately.”

February–March 2019 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

Bill Andersen, president of the board of directors, and wife Carol donated the 2-plus acre parcel for the new location of the refuge in 2017. Its site in Navarre is on Clopton’s Circle, near East Bay and just off State Road 87.

Carol Andersen estimated the total cost of the project at slightly more than $720,000. That money came from donations and fundraising.

The new refuge includes: ▪ A medical center with a full surgical suite — pre-op, post-op, recovery and nursery as well as a necropsy suite.

▪ An education outreach center that includes a visitor center, gift shop and education center with displays and indoor/outdoor classrooms.

▪ Animal habitats that include both rehabilitation and animal ambassador enclosures.

“Our med center plans were drawn to our veterinarian’s and technician’s specifications and reviewed by other animal care experts,” Andersen said. “We’ll be able to keep our supplies and equipment where they are needed, instead of in a closet because that’s all we photography by TODD DOUGLAS PHOTOGRAPHY

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↑ Board president Bill Andersen cozies up to Riley, a striped skunk that had been kept illegally as a pet and was brought to the refuge by the Fish and Wildlife Commission. ↗ Wildlife health technician Gene Medley and wildlife rehab intern Morgan Pelfrey force feed a bird of prey in the refuge’s intensive care unit. That measure is required when raptors refuse to eat foods on their usual diet.

had available. We’ll certainly be able to work more efficiently.”

And that’s not all.

“On the education side of the house, we’ll actually be able to use all of our tools and supplies when we’re making presentations,” Andersen said. “In the past, we’ve had equipment we could rarely use because it was too big to load into vehicles.”

The Andersens became familiar with the refuge through unforeseen circumstances.

“We got started because my dog Quigley caught a squirrel that had been mauling the house,” Carol said, the memory producing a hint of a smile. “And we didn’t know where to take it, so Bill called around and he found the wildlife refuge and started volunteering the next day.”

↑ These orphaned raccoons will call the refuge home until they reach the age of independence, typically around six months.

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Not long after that, the Andersens fostered and released seven pelicans.

“Seeing them after putting them back in the wild was just everything to me,” Carol said.

The refuge staff includes Shelby Proie, wildlife rehabilitator and marine mammal stranding coordinator; Michelle Pettis, wildlife rehabilitator and volunteer/ intern coordinator; and Dr. Phil Blumer, veterinarian.

“You get to help save lives, and every day is different,” said Proie. “It’s very challenging all the time but in different ways. I took this position because I’ve done wildlife rehabilitation for over five years, and I wanted to get back into the marine mammal field. I like the diversity of being able to do both, and there’s not many places in this country you can do that.”

Six types of volunteers contributed a total of 10,000 hours last year: ▪ Refuge volunteers (diets, feeding and cleaning).

▪ Foster volunteers who take animals home and bring them in for weekly checkups.

▪ Marine mammal stranding team.

▪ Rescue volunteers.

▪ Docents and education volunteers.

▪ Student volunteers.

February–March 2019 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

“What the volunteers give us is phenomenal,” Andersen said, “and we really rely on them to keep the organization going.”

Anna Hackney of Navarre is working toward a wildlife rehabilitation license while serving on the rescue team. She attended the University of West Florida and Troy University in Alabama and has a master’s degree in public administration.

“I was born and raised in Gulf Breeze, and my mom (Mae) was an Audubon volunteer,” Hackney said. “We used to rehab owls on our back porch. Now, as I’ve gotten older and I see their habitats are being destroyed, there’s a need for people to step up and rehab the animals and educate people along the way.”

Intern Tabitha Hall has a degree in wildlife biology with a minor in wildlife rehabilitation from Lees-McCrae College in North Carolina. Her husband, Jacob, is stationed with the Air Force at Hurlburt Field.

Since joining the refuge last July, Hall has made it a point to give hope to people concerned about the survival of an animal.

“It’s amazing when people think it’s a lost cause and we can turn it into a really good situation,” Hall said. “There’s a lot to do when you think you can’t do a lot.” EC photography by TODD DOUGLAS PHOTOGRAPHY

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PERSONALITY

THE DUKE OF LACROSSE

Air Force veteran made sport popular in the Panhandle

by THOMAS J. MONIGAN

F

or the past 10 years, Duke Pope has played a major role in making lacrosse the fastest growing sport along the Emerald Coast.

“It’s kind of a mix that has the physicality of hockey with the speed and excitement of fast-break basketball, all on a soccer-sized field,” said Pope, who was the founder of Emerald Coast Lightning Lacrosse in 2009, when he was still in the U.S. Air Force.

From Panama City to Pensacola, there are a dozen such clubs that have been formed in recent years. Nine high ↗ schools along that stretch have varsity Lacrosse promoter boys teams and eight have varsity Duke Pope likes the sport’s girls teams, according to the fast pace, its physicality and its inclusiveness — Florida High School Athletic it attracts players Association. of various shapes Last May, the Okaloosa County and sizes.

School board voted unanimously to elevate the club teams at Fort Walton Beach and Niceville high schools to the varsity level for the 2018–19 school year.

Pope was a Maryland middle-schooler when he first encountered the sport that “From a player’s perspective, it’s very has roots as an Iroquois war game. inclusive,” Pope said. “It’s not one body type He recalled, “I had some buddies or athletic type that lacrosse caters to. It can that said, ‘Hey, you should come out for be little guys, big guys, fast guys, and some lacrosse.’ And I said, ‘What’s lacrosse?’ I not as fleet of foot can be tremendously wasn’t playing baseball, and my parents quick goalies. wouldn’t let me play football until I was “The last component is the creativity in high school, so I kind of snuck playing a piece,” Pope added. “This sport allows an contact sport past my parents. I seemed to athlete to be very creative, whether it’s fake have a natural ability for it, and I caught on passes, behind-the-back shots or different quickly. And of course, there was the social ways to dodge players when going down aspect of being in team sports.” the field.”

So, what attracts youngsters?

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Both of Pope’s sons, Josh and Reece, grew up playing the sport, and it was Josh who came up with the name “Lightning.” He arrived at that idea as the family was driving back from Monterey to this area in 2008, and they were making plans for organizing lacrosse in Okaloosa County.

“I don’t mean to sound hokey,” Pope said, “but there’s something special about how the sport has a personality and a culture that’s infectious. There are a lot of rules, but as a spectator, you don’t have to understand photography by TODD DOUGLAS PHOTOGRAPHY

→

Emerald Coast Lacrosse Pioneers Jeff Sherman, founder of Gulf Coast Lacrosse Officials Association Jeff Malinen, founder of Navarre Lacrosse

↑ Mason Lavasseur (22) of 30A Lacrosse participates in a free shoot-around held in June of last year. The event attracted about two dozen players.

all of them to enjoy watching it.

The speed, the physical contact, the finesse — all of these things are attractive to players, parents and spectators.”

Pope went on to co-found the Destin Rockets in 2012, with some major help from Gene Speni.

Emerald Coast Lightning hosted the Destin Spring Lacrosse Invitational, as well as the fourth annual Surf-nTurf 7 vs. 7 tournament, which brought 56 teams to Destin last November.

Jamie Hansen is the founder of 30A Lacrosse. When he found out he was moving to the Emerald Coast from Colorado, Hansen began a search for a place where he could continue his interest in the sport.

“I searched high and wide, and there just wasn’t anything,” Hansen said. “And this was 2014. Then I stumbled across the

Destin Rockets, which was Duke Pope’s organization. I didn’t get to meet Duke until December 2014 when he did a little clinic and I brought my son, Dylan, and I started coaching with him just a month or two later.”

Hansen had some struggles developing 30A Lacrosse.

“In the spring of 2016, it got to the point where Duke allowed me to roll my kids back in with the Destin organization and play with them even though we were doing registration for 30A Lacrosse,” Hansen said.

“I had only 20 kids registered, but he even helped me purchase some goals and help get funding,” Hansen added, “and then he helped me get the sport into South Walton High School in 2017. While that was going on, Duke was also trying to help out the high schools in Niceville and Fort Walton Beach.”

“Duke’s a pretty humble guy, but we call him the ‘Godfather of Lacrosse’ in the Panhandle because he’s had a hand in starting every organization, with maybe the only exception being Gulf Breeze.” — Jamie Hansen, founder of 30A Lacrosse

For 2018’s fall season, Hansen registered 134 youngsters. A second Walton County high school, Seacoast Collegiate, has added the sport. And Dylan Hansen is coaching in a youth program.

“Duke’s a pretty humble guy,” Hansen said, “but we call him the ‘Godfather of Lacrosse’ in the Panhandle because he’s had a hand in starting every organization, with maybe the only exception being Gulf Breeze. He’s sort of the source of a lot of knowledge, and I still go to him for ideas.” EC

James Yurack and Lou Albeiro, founders of Niceville Lacrosse Kelly Gonzalez Reece, who brought girls lacrosse to Okaloosa County and Niceville Jamie Hansen, founder of 30A Lacrosse Pete Butler, founder of Pensacola Riptide Carlee Costello, founder of Lax Chix in Gulf Breeze Laura Pattison, founder of Gulf Breeze girls lacrosse Matt Dorf, founder of Gulf Breeze boys lacrosse and Gulf Breeze High School boys lacrosse Gene Speni, co-founder of the Destin Rockets

Jamie Hansen

EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

Seth Barlow, who helped found Milton High School’s lacrosse club February–March 2019

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PETS

ONE FISH, TWO FISH Create a window on the underwater world

F

ish are magnificent to behold in their natural environment. Denizens of quiet, they seem to be at peace, driven entirely by instinct, perhaps, or at the least given wholly to undistracted minds.

Evidence suggests that fish may even be peace-giving.

Science editor Sarah Knapton, writing in The Telegraph of London, cites a university study that demonstrated for the first time that staring at swimming fish really does lower blood pressure and reduce heart rate.

“Even viewing an empty tank with just rocks and seaweed lowered heart rate by 3 percent,” Knapton wrote. “But when fish were introduced, heart rate fell by 7 percent. Watching fish reduced blood pressure by 4 percent.”

Further, the study found that higher numbers of fish helped to hold people’s attention longer and improve their moods.

It’s little wonder, then, that aquariums are often found in high-stress settings like dentists’ and doctors’ waiting rooms.

Of course, many householders stock aquariums purely for the joy of observing creatures in an environment that we can only briefly visit. They may or may not be aware of their hobby’s beneficial side effects as they go about de-chlorinating the water in everything from goldfish bowls to massive tanks that encompass entire walls.

For most people, stocking the aquarium, big or little, involves a trip to a pet supermarket or a big box store. Only a minority of those aquarium fish mongers, however, sell saltwater fish and most may offer few freshwater fish that go beyond

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↗ When stocking a saltwater aquarium, choose specimens from the same environment to ensure compatibility and good health.

the usual suspects: tetras, zebra danios, So, piscatorial relations are a factor, and gouramis and for those who must have it’s important, too, to consider how big something larger, oscars. your fish may grow when you are buying The more adventuresome may choose a tank. to dive in and capture their own fish for “Get the largest aquarium that you their tanks. The Emerald Coast is home to can afford and place where you want it myriad species of fish, both saltwater and because that determines which species can fresh. There are things you need to know, be accommodated, as well as how many,” however, if your DIY project is going to be Rogers advised. a sustainable success — as well as one that’s More than one tank will also be required, fully legal. as a so-called quarantine tank will ease Saltwater tanks require careful monitoring in transitioning fish to their permanent and maintenance and more expensive water home as well as ensuring that purities and filtration systems. There is no need to bacteria are filtered out and prevented monitor salinity levels in freshwater tanks from causing complications. and keeping tabs on pH levels is required The hobbyist who is inclined to harvest only with regard to a few especially delicate his own fish for display should be mindful freshwater species. of regulations that pertain to that activity.

Color is hard to come by among freshwater “Anyone taking marine species for use in fishes — African cichlids are an exception to a personal aquarium would need to adhere the rule — so, if you’re going for the wow to our regulations including bag limits, factor, saltwater tanks are the way to go. seasons, and size limits for those species,” “Saltwater tanks yield more vibrant, warned Amanda Nalley, a regional public colorful fish than fresh water, and they information specialist at the state Division produce more immediate gratification than of Marine Fisheries Management. “Those freshwater tanks, which take much more species included in our marine life rule time to fully cultivate an interest in,” said must be landed alive (which is the idea, Joe Rogers, a sales associate at Panama City after all) typically with use of an aerator.

Beach’s Suncoast Pets.

Harvesters also need to make sure they “Fresh water does offer a bit more have a recreational saltwater fishing license. freedom in terms of how many And, once a species is taken and different types of fish a single maintained in a tank, it cannot tank can accommodate in the be returned to the water.”

TO GATHER MORE SPECIFICS same environment, however, From curmudgeonly catfish Visit Florida Fish and because a wider variety of to adorable angelfish, get tanked Wildlife Conservation freshwater fish get along with up. There’s a world of wonder Commission’s website one another than saltwater fish waiting for you to discover just at myfwc.com. tend to do.” behind the glass. EC

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panache FEB/MAR 2019

ELEMENTS OF STYLE RANGING FROM THE SUBLIME TO THE MORE SUBLIME

→ Pearl earrings complement a necklace that is easily adjusted to varying lengths.

CITIZEN OF STYLE

Mother of Pearl For Munika Karim, the world is her oyster

FASHION photography by JACQUELINE WARD IMAGES

Cut of Your Jib

|| WHAT’S IN STORE

Cut of Your Jib

by HANNAH BURKE

Retail Roundup

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↗ Limited-time

commitment: Henna tattoos, often applied for special occasions, fade within two weeks.

henna “tattoo”

W

e could stand to learn a few things from oysters.

Like us, they builds walls.

Walls that promise security, warmth. Home.

But when something infiltrates that shell, be it anything from a formidable parasite to an innocuous grain of sand, the bivalve does not succumb: It fortifies.

It embraces the unwanted, coating it in layer after layer of nacre until it is no longer ugly, but a beautiful reminder of its own resilience.

Munika Karim, owner of Munika Karim Boutique, has mimicked the pearl.

Originally from Uzbekistan, a former territory of the Soviet Union, Karim made her way to New York City 20 years ago by way of a university-issued grant.

“When I came to study in Manhattan, I was thinking I was in a movie, because I had always watched American movies growing up and they were just like this,” Karim laughed. She went on to describe a familiar, coming-of-age flick: meeting who she thought was the love of her life, birthing four, beautiful children and relocating to Destin, the charming little fishing village that promised “happily ever after.”

Unfortunately, life doesn’t always imitate the silver screen. Karim’s then-husband abruptly left when their youngest son was

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only 7 months old. After functioning as a stay-at-home mom for years, Karim knew that, somehow, the show had to go on.

“I started this business with $10 in my pocket,” she recalled. “I was working in a restaurant that sold beautiful pearl jewelry.

At the time, a single pearl was $30, and I couldn’t afford it. I needed diapers for my kids. So, I decided I’d learn how to make my own accessories.”

Karim’s pearls quickly made their way from the necks of friends to friends of friends, finally attracting the attention of national markets. With four cubs in tow, she began to learn the ropes and establish her own clientele as a jewelry vendor in the Santa Rosa Mall.

After three fruitful years, Munika Karim

Boutique flirted with another spot in Fort Walton Beach, then established residence at Destin Commons. “The general manager here, Bob, he helps me so much,” Karim said. “He is a very soft, very kind person who realized my situation and has always been there — even now, with my latest move.”

This winter, Munika Karim Boutique shifted into a more central location in the Commons, occupying a snug little spot next to Hollister. As evidenced by the 600 one-of-a-kind designs that adorn the walls, it’s not your typical, touristy pearl shop.

After years of sticking to the local market’s status quo, Karim realized her creations didn’t differ much from those of other pearl peddlers along the coast.

“I made my little bit of money and then started traveling. I started buying pearls from Chinese farms and learned how to polish,” she said.

Karim’s preferred polishing technique involves tumbling pearls with fine slivers of bamboo and natural oils, boosting iridescence as well as durability. The latter is essential to the next step of the design process, which involves placing the pearl into a specially crafted, precious-stone drilling machine.

Once punctured, the lustrous pearl is threaded with fine leather and pliant to Karim’s whims. Though many find their way to rings, bracelets and earrings, customers often seek out the boutique’s signature, versatile necklace.

“Today, the pearls come from my travels to places like Bali, Japan, Australia and French Polynesia,” she said. “Color and style-wise, every necklace is different, but I like to make them adjustable.”

Karim is happy to demonstrate, easily

↑ By maneuvering knots, a single necklace may be worn as a lariat-length piece, at princess length or as a choker.

February–March 2019 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

↑Karim’s children exercise their own artistic

sensibilities by assembling miniature Zen gardens dotted with tiny succulents.

↗ Munika

Karim favors bohemian styles that reflect her travels to Europe.

maneuvering various knots to transform a long, lariat-type necklace into a subtle, yet stylish, princess length and, finally, a striking choker.

But, if you’re not partial to pearls, Karim has bedazzled many a chain with natural crystals, gems and metals. When she is not minding the shop, you can likely find Karim in her back-room workshop, clad in a surgical mask and safety goggles as she melts silver and polishes Afghan emeralds photography by JACQUELINE WARD IMAGES

like a vogue blacksmith. She is self-taught, thanks to her friend, YouTube.

When asked if she’s always had an interest in the world of fashion, Karim quietly admits that she used to be a model, but never thought she’d work at the other end of the industry.

It explains her eye for unique apparel, arrayed on a wall across the store from the jewelry.

“All the clothes you see here are from

my travels to Europe,” Karim pointed out.

“Very bohemian, which I think pair well with my jewelry.”

It’s no secret that Munika Karim Boutique speaks to the boho-soul. She offers a table of potted succulents and miniature Zen gardens (designed by Karim’s children) as well as a henna “tattoo” station.

On this day, Karim’s hand is embellished with an intricate representation of the herb.

“I’ve done henna my whole life because it comes from my culture, but I never did it for business,” she explained. “But here, people started asking me where I got mine done! So, I started offering traditional henna, brown and black, and wedding henna, which is white.”

Many barefoot brides have modeled Karim’s sandy-white henna at their beachfront weddings. Unlike many local offerings, Karim’s henna is chemical free.

Henna, which is a flower, is mixed with essential oils and water, then refrigerated into a paste. Karim’s solution lasts 10-14 days before fading.

“I love sharing my tradition with people, through both the henna and the Eastern influences in my jewelry,” Karim smiled.

“I’m from a big city and was always surrounded by friends who shared my culture. Then, when my life completely changed, I found myself with four kids, no car, no money and no friends.

“With this business, I started meeting people again, meeting locals who would come back and introduce me to other people. Now I see tourists who come back every year to visit, and it’s so rewarding.” EC

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→

Mariner Skirt, $140 Available at Anthropologie in Grand Boulevard

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February–March 2019 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

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Polka Dot Swing Top, $78 Available at Anthropologie in Grand Boulevard

↖

Corseted Stripe Top, $169 Available at Anthropologie in Grand Boulevard

F CUT OF FASHION

PHOTOS COURTESY OF ANTHROPOLOGIE

YOUR JIB It’s Anchors Aweigh for Nautical Fashion

by HANNAH BURKE

rom the tender caress of her gentle breeze to the salty-sweet kisses she leaves in her wake, open sea seduces many a sailor and siren with her eternal mystique.

We on the Emerald Coast are united in this tumultuous affair, having sold our souls long ago to witness the Gulf of Mexico’s every ebb and flow. And, while the sea is the subject of countless odes, the foundation of many of our livelihoods and the place we call home, it’s true, too, that she’s flirted her way into our wardrobes.

“I feel that nautical fashion will forever be a timeless trend because of the classic styles associated with it,” says Diane McLaughlin, owner of the Lee Tracy fashion boutique in Pensacola.

“Clean, crisp stripes, whites, navy and reds — nothing says ‘coastal’ better. It keeps us feeling youthful, as we remember sporting the sailor outfits in which our mothers used to dress us.”

For Rebecca Margarites, owner of Whitewash Boutique in Miramar Beach, McLaughlin’s remark echoes what she knows to be the style’s origins. She said that naval fashion made its way from ship to street in 1846, when Queen Victoria ordered a sailor suit for her son.

“It really didn’t become a mainstay until 1917 when Coco Chanel launched her nautical collection,” Margarites explains. “Contemporary designers like Ralph Lauren continue to be influenced by this cross-generational, iconic style.”

Today, sailor-chic has evolved from traditional, Breton tops, into chunky fisherman sweaters and oversized outerwear. Next time you catch an angler down on the docks, rocking a weathered mug and an offal scent, you can thank him for mainstreaming your cute, new cable-knit.

“For us on the Gulf, it’s an absolute staple for any woman’s wardrobe,” McLaughlin said of

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panache cozy jumpers. “I’ve seen hoodie styles paired with the classic boyfriend jean for a more casual look, but you can always dress them up with a pair of slacks and a duster coat for a classier ensemble. Either way, you can’t really go wrong.”

For Margarites, it’s important that Whitewash Boutique supplies thick knits and swing sweaters with detail, such as button-embellished front pockets, lace-up sleeves and plenty of ruching for added sophistication. But, if you’re going to go the extra mile with your top, she advises to keep the rest of your look simple. “Pair it with denim, tall boots and stick with winter-friendly colors, like cream and navy.”

That’s not to say you can’t experiment with pops of color and patterns elsewhere. We wouldn’t be covering our bases if we didn’t acknowledge the iconic blazer, which, according to McLaughlin, has dropped anchor among the racks once more.

“Animal print, classic denim, black, opened, buttoned, belted — you name it, it’s in,” she said.

You’ll want to put your thick knits aside and rely upon a form-fitting button-up or boat-neck top beneath to accentuate your figure. But, McLaughlin says, don’t shy away from that classic, horizontal stripe.

“I’ve often heard many women that I’ve worked with over the years say, ‘Oh, I could NEVER wear horizontal stripes, are you kidding me? They make me look huge!’” McLaughlin laughed. “I, myself, am a bigger gal, and I can rock a stripe with the best of them.”

The secret is in the fabric you select. Look for material that drapes and doesn’t cling, and introduce a long-chained necklace or silk scarf to play off the stripe’s dimensions.

I can’t get enough of silk scarves, and Margarites shares in my fondness for the versatile accessory.

“A great way to pull a look together is by coordinating the colors in a scarf with your top and jacket,” she said. “It’s the secret to decorating yourself!

If you’re wearing a cream-and-navy striped top with a navy jacket, throw on a scarf that is cream with navy anchors to create some contrast. Mixing a stripe and print against a solid creates interest and a more coordinated style.”

Just don’t go pairing that scarf with anchor earrings and charm bracelets. There’s a fine line between smooth sailing and going overboard when navigating this style, so to avoid looking like Popeye or Jack Sparrow. Remember less is more.

“Layer on a gold necklace with pearl detail, a stack of chunky gold bracelets or a pair of pearl earrings to show off your pirate booty,” Margarites encourages.

“Trending gold-trimmed, natural stones and tassel necklaces add flair and tie back into your theme.” EC

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BOTOX:

IT’S NOT JUST FOR WOMEN Most people tend to associate Botox Cosmetic with women, but as NFL Hall of Famer and Florida State University BILL EDELMAN, PA-C standout Deion Sanders attests, the product’s benefits apply equally well to men.

Sanders is among a growing number of men who have received Botox Cosmetic injections as a way to combat unwanted facial lines.

Botox Cosmetic is FDA-approved and is the only product that temporarily improves both moderate to severe crow’s feet and also frown lines between the brows in adults. It is a prescription medicine that is injected into muscles.

At Destin Plastic Surgery, men and women taking advantage of Botox Cosmetic are in extraordinarily good hands. The practice’s injector, Bill Edelman, is a certified physician’s assistant who works under the supervision of Dr. William Burden.

He is among the most experienced providers of Botox Cosmetic in the United States. Indeed, patients travel from around the country to have “Botox Bill” administer their treatments.

Men, like women, want to look as young as they feel. Treatments including Botox Cosmetic help minimize forehead wrinkles, vertical “worry lines” between the eyes and crow’s feet around the outer edge of the eyes. Botox can also be used to treat men who suffer with hyperhidrosis, a condition that results in heavy sweating. It is addressed by injecting Botox in the area of the sweat glands.

For more information about Botox Cosmetic, call Destin Plastic Surgery at (850) 654-1194 or contact the practice online to request a free skincare consultation.

INJECTABLE SPOTLIGHT: VOLUMA

V

oluma is an injectable that gives a lift to the lower jaw and cheekbones, and it’s a popular way to volumize the cheeks and achieve a youthful, natural look.

“Everyone loves Voluma because it’s very natural and subtle,” said Bill Edelman, injector and physician’s assistant with Destin Plastic Surgery. “I take a very conservative approach to ensure that nothing looks unnatural or sticks out.

Instead, it’s like when women wear blush, to give a little lift and to accentuate.”

Numbing cream is applied, and the procedure is simple. It takes about 15-20 minutes to administer one tube. The results typically last for 18 to 24 months. Edelman notes that more tubes can lead to longer-lasting effects and more lift to your cheeks.

He encourages patients to find a result they are happy with and maintain it from there.

Redness, swelling and light bruising — easily covered by makeup — can occur but tend to resolve in a few days. Because the product is an organic protein already found within your body, there is no chance of an allergic reaction.

If you’re considering a same-day treatment, the process is simple, quick and adjusted to cater to your comfort level. Patients come in for a consultation, their faces are evaluated and photos are taken of the areas of concern. From there, products, procedures and options are discussed.

If the patient wishes, the procedure can be performed immediately. Injectable procedures often can be done in 20 minutes or less, allowing patients to visit and then be on their way.

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Whether you wish to smooth out wrinkles, fix fine lines or plump up your cheeks, your desired results can be achieved within a day.

WHAT TO EXPECT FROM SAME-DAY TREATMENTS Edelman is affectionately known as “Botox Bill” because he is one of the most proficient and experienced providers of Botox cosmetics and other injectables in the United States. His expertise results in many same-day treatments because he is timely, knowledgeable and professional.

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February–March 2019 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

SPONSORED REPORT

WHY TRAVEL TO DESTIN? ANSWER: EXPERTISE D estin Plastic Surgery was founded by Dr. William Burden with a single mission in mind — providing you with service of an exceptional quality while earning the trust of you and your family.

Part of that job was establishing a center of excellence. Dr. Burden conceptualized a now 20,500-square-foot facility as a home for a multi-faceted approach to plastic surgery: medical grade skin care, Botox for wrinkles, fillers for lip and facial enhancement, laser therapy for hair removal and skin rejuvenation, varicose and spider vein therapy, as well as surgery for the face, breast and body, all under a single roof.

All of these procedures require a physician who dedicates himself to maintaining high quality and a continuing pursuit of excellence. Dr. Burden has done that. Recently, he was asked to participate as a faculty member at the Aesthetic Breast Symposium in Nashville, Tennessee. He was one of five surgeons from around the country asked to share with an audience of 60 other plastic surgeons his remarkable experience and expertise. No other surgeon from the Southeast was selected to speak about breast surgery.

Dr. Burden and Bill Edelman have been recognized as exceptional experts in Botox and Juvederm therapy. Dr. Burden is an instructor for facial aesthetics and is a member of the Allergan Speakers Bureau. He is often asked to speak on facial aesthetic treatments and to travel to instruct others on treatment techniques.

No other plastic surgeon in North Florida has these credentials.

The latest techniques and surgical technology are incorporated into the Destin Plastic Surgery practice.

Dr. Burden has been developing fatgrafting techniques for reconstructive and cosmetic surgery. The Revolve system is an adipose harvesting system that has been developed to obtain highquality fat grafts. Dr. Burden was the first plastic surgeon along the Gulf Coast to utilize this system for cosmetic enhancement of the buttocks. He has had high patient satisfaction with this procedure and continues to refine his techniques for enhancement of the face, breast and hands with fat grafting.

Part of the benefits of being a member of a group of exceptional surgeons is the camaraderie.

“You should always surround yourself with better and smarter people. If you are the smartest person in the room, go to another room,” Dr. Burden says. “I always learn from our meetings and discussing difficult cases with my colleagues. That is my favorite part of pursuing excellence and giving that extra effort to be part of something exceptional!”

WILLIAM R. BURDEN, MD, FACS

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The Rusted Arrow Mercantile

A roundup of retail happenings throughout the Emerald Coast

Through her frequent travels, the worldly Angela Bontemps has mastered the art of coastal-meets-cultural interior design. Now serving the Miramar Beach area, Bontemps Interiors provides a showroom of polished furnishings, treatments and design solutions for any home.

Collector’s Corner ➸ ARTISTRY 98 has moved to a

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is new to Palafox Place, furnishing tourists and locals alike with Logo Motion’s Blue Angel merchandise, handcrafted gifts and home goods. And, if you’re looking to show some love for your city, Pensacola Merchant-branded apparel and accessories ensure that you do so in style.

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THE DESTIN PEARL, lies in the heart of Destin Commons, where owner Ken Behringer exhibits the work of over 30 local, multimedia artists. From the tranquil, beach watercolor, to eccentric, acrylic abstracts, there’s something to tickle your fancy.

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February–March 2019 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

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➸ New to the Grand Boulevard Sandestin family is CHUBBIES, a one-stop shop of shorts for all occasions. Stock up on spring swimmers and athletic shorts, or browse the collection of fleece quarter-zips and hoodies to ride out the winter.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF BONTEMPS INTERIORS, THE RUSTED ARROW MERCANTILE, THE DESTIN PEARL, CLASSEA CHIC BOUTIQUE AND FELICITY + ASHER CHILDREN’S BOUTIQUE

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expression FEB/MAR 2019

CREATIVE WORKS LAND ON PAGES, CANVASES AND STAGES

← Paul Saviskas’s sculpture of three sea turtles, on display at the Center for the Arts in Panama City, was inspired by a scene he witnessed while snorkeling off Hawaii.

ART

CALM BEFORE THE FORM Sculptor covets peace as part of his process

by STEVE BORNHOFT

MUSIC photography by MICHAEL BOOINI

Touch of Gray

|| STAGE

Character Development

|| BOOKS

Good Muse

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expression

I

n Hawaii, where he lived for 42 years, Paul Saviskas frequently visited Punalu’u Black Sand Beach on the Big Island not far from Volcanoes National Park. He was attracted to the place not just by its stunningly beautiful scenery, but by fellow habitués: Hawksbill and green sea turtles that gather there to feed on a plant called limu, bask in the sun and nest.

“I love turtles,” Saviskas said, and he loved especially to swim with them. On one occasion, he found himself in the water with a tightly bunched trio of turtles and, “I took a photograph in my head,” he recalled. “And I told myself, ‘I am making that sculpture.’”

Thus resolved, he bought a bunch of disposable underwater cameras and photographed Punalu’u’s turtles from various angles, capturing detailed shots of their heads and flippers, and their shells, carpeted in algae so fine it looks like felt.

Finally, Saviskas wanted to get a picture of a turtle’s underside. He positioned himself to do so and pressed his camera’s shutter release, resulting in a loud click.

The subject turtle reacted by turning around and staring at the underwater paparazzo.

“He gave me the stink eye,” Saviskas said. “It was a look that said, ‘You pervert.’”

In any event, the portfolio of images was complete, and Saviskas set to work bringing the photograph in his head into being.

Saviskas grew up far from the tropical Pacific, in Worcester, Massachusetts, where his father owned a precision parts fabrication business. At age 14, Saviskas began his apprenticeship there.

“For stahters,” Saviskas said, evidencing a Boston accent that he never has shed, “I swept the floors and tidied the place up, and I’d play around with scraps of metal and a welding machine.”

His father, encouraged, thought son Paul was practicing to become a parts maker.

“But, really, I was practicing how to make sculptures.”

Before long, Saviskas had created a few pieces that he thought had merit, and he approached the owner of a neighborhood barbershop with a proposition.

“Guy’s name was Harry,” Saviskas smiled.

(Of course it was.) “There was nothing on

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↘ Paul Saviskas,

who has traveled to China to study Eastern-style martial arts, leads a stress-reduction workshop.

February–March 2019 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

the walls, and I told him that I would hang my sculptures and price them and, if they sold, I would split the proceeds with him, 50–50.”

And they did sell, for $12 or $15 each.

“It was better money than I could have made throwing the (Boston) Globe, and I got my stuff in three or four other shops,” Saviskas said. He began to entertain hopes that he might sell enough pieces to afford the ’58 Corvette he dreamed about.

That didn’t happen — too little time, too few barbers — but Saviskas the sculptor had begun, irretrievably, to take shape, and he had discovered his preferred medium: steel.

For a time, Saviskas would spin wheels at Quinsigamond Community College and Worcester Junior College. He studied accounting, but he couldn’t make numbers work for him. He started down the road to becoming a state trooper until the woman that would become his wife told him that she would not marry a cop.

So, Saviskas became his father’s number two man.

After passing muster with the FBI, Saviskas’s dad was entrusted with making parts for MX missiles. The work was exacting, almost beyond measure.

“Tolerances were extreme,” Saviskas said. “A human hair is four ten-thousandths of an inch in width. We were dealing with tenths of thousandths of an inch.

“I worked for two months on a piece that I could hold in one hand,” Saviskas said. Parts made in Worcester were joined with parts made by other fabricators from around the country to make missiles at a location unknown to Saviskas.

“Quality had to be No. 1, and my father was a stickler for that,” Saviskas said.

As a sculptor, Saviskas is given to like precision and discipline. He devoted two years to his three-turtles piece, which is now on exhibit at the Center for the Arts in downtown Panama City. The sculpture,

by Saviskas’s estimate, comprises $30,000 in materials.

Saviskas traded Honolulu for Lynn Haven two years ago to be near family, including his 92-year-old mother, a sister and a nephew who was a fighter pilot at Tyndall Air Force Base before he was displaced by Hurricane Michael. photography by MICHAEL BOOINI

↑ Sculptor Paul Saviskas developed his skill for precision metalworking as an understudy in his father’s parts-fabricating business in Massachusetts.

Decades earilier, Saviskas moved from commissioned to produce works including the Northeast to Hawaii after plans he a dragonfly of dinosauric proportions and made with his wife, Carol, to relocate to an outsized humuhumunukunukuapua’a, New Zealand were scotched by that nation’s Hawaii’s state fish. (It’s a triggerfish, but embassy. (Saviskas suspects that officials one far more colorful than the gray triggers were uncomfortable with his connection to of the northern Gulf of Mexico.) the missile program.)

The dragonfly and the “humuhumu” Hawaii seemed like the next best thing, soon became the two most photographed but there was no call in paradise for an pieces of public art in Hawaii. industrial parts maker, so Saviskas put his Saviskas is aided in all that he makes art to work. by his devotion to tai chi and qi gong, He found a niche making elaborate disciplines that account for his impeccable gates for the rich and famous. Customers posture and transport him to a place of included Kelsey Grammer and Carlos calm where creativity flourishes.

Santana. He enjoyed referrals from “I am happiest when I am in the woods,” designers and architects to the point Saviskas said. “Whenever I travel, I find where he was pinning deposit checks on a wooded area to do my tai chi and qi the wall and telling people, gong. For a time, my wife (a imprecisely, that “I will get speech pathologist) had an to you when I can.” Once, assignment in Bonifay, and I PANAMA CITY he crafted a spiral staircase would go every morning to for an existing building so Falling Waters State Park.

CENTER FOR exactly that when it was The deer didn’t trust me at THE ARTS dropped into its permanent first, and then they got to Provides educational experiences, home through a window, it know me. In a clearing, they performances and fit perfectly and astounded would graze and I would do exhibits that contribute passersby who observed the my thing and my vibes were to cultural enrichment in Bay County. installation in progress. good and I was no more His talents came to the threatening to them than a 19 E. 4th St., (850) 640-3670 bayartsevents.com attention of the Mayor’s mushroom.”

Open Tuesday through Office of Culture and the Not all artists, it seems, Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Arts in Honolulu, and he was are temperamental. EC EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

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expression

MUSIC

TOUCH OF GRAY With a nod to Jerry Garcia, the Graytones rock the beach

by HANNAH BURKE

T

here’s a line from the Grateful Dead’s 1976 hit “Terrapin Station” that reaches an artist’s soul.

Inspiration, move me brightly, Light the song with sense and color.

Hold away despair, More than this I will not ask.

But it’s not just in music that Jerry Garcia serves as a guiding light for Tanner Gray.

With his flair for funky fashion, Gray bears a close physical resemblence to Garcia.

Gray is the lead singer for the Graytones, which may be the Emerald Coast’s grooviest jam band.

I had the pleasure of attending a band practice that took place in a secluded cabin at the E.O. Wilson Biophila Center in Freeport.

Gray, along with drummer Zack Corder and backup vocalist/ keyboardist Chris Crutcher, were the first to roll in. Shoes came off and beers were iced down as they settled in, a ritual already familiar to a band that formed just last year.

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February–March 2019 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

←

The Graytones — tightly bunched in an Airstream trailer — work through a studio session. From left: Tanner Gray, Zack Corder, Ricky Stanfield and Chris Crutcher.

photography by TODD DOUGLAS PHOTOGRAPHY

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“We met in college,” Gray said, lounging on a sofa. “Mississippi State Unversity.

We actually had two bands together, Foxyphonic junior year and, senior year, The Peddlers.”

Then, the trio’s members split to different corners of the country postgraduation. Gray found himself in New Orleans, where Craigslist was the best networking resource available to musicians.

“Once I moved to Florida, I knew I had to put out an ad,” Gray recalled. “I said I was looking to start an instrumental band, but then I met our bass player, Ricky Stanfield, and we paired up with his friends. We started jammin’, giggin’ … and I really wanted to contact Chris and Zack to have them play with us.”

“He asked us to come down and play ‘just for the summer,’” Crutcher interjected, causing Corder to snort. “I was coming from Colorado, and Zack from Nashville.”

And, like so many who have sampled the Emerald Coast, the pair was Chinese fingertrapped. Moving to the beach was easy; leaving it proved impossible. Grayton Beach in particular holds a special place in their hearts.

“We all love Grayton, so Justin suggested we be the Graytones, and I said no,” Gray said with a laugh. “That’s my last name, it’s cheesy! But everyone said that’s why it works, so it stuck.”

Their music is synonymous with the eccentric, yet laid-back lifestyle of the beach community and steadfast with psychedelic beats to get the crowd on its feet. The distinctive sound, they said, found itself.

“We started off with a lot of New Orleans-style funk, but our original songs took a pretty big departure from that into a more alternative style,” Gray said. “We have some beachy vibes with all the reverb in our guitars, but more than anything, we just like to jam.”

With the addition of Josh Zook on saxophone and Mike Ingram on guitar, the band produces beaucoup boogie numbers.

It recently debuted a music video for its single, “In Time”

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↑ Members of the Graytones scattered about the country after spending time together at Mississippi State University but have reunited on the Emerald Coast, a place that all are pleased to call home.

I know it’s hard to understand sometimes I know that I can be a little hard to love, I want to give that romance you like Just believe that I’ll get there in time.

And, like the track’s candid lyrics, the Graytones weren’t interested in romanticizing the filming process.

“It was weird,” Cructher insisted.

“Probably the most uncomfortable I’ve ever been,” Gray agreed. “We were cramped on a stage they were using for a play at Northwest Florida State College, and we had our song playing over this tiny Bluetooth speaker. Cameras are right up in our face, I’m pretending to sing and Zack’s back there trying to drum as soft as he can. I’m happy with the way it turned out, but I don’t think we’ll make a video like that again.”

With an album in the works, band members would like to take a stab at directing their own videos and perhaps take a more humorous approach. Though they may be camera shy, their droll personalities ensure that stage fright isn’t an issue.

In addition to their usual haunts, the Graytones have rocked the Seaside

February–March 2019 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

Ampitheatre and Pensacola Vinyl Music Hall and have turned in a televised performance for the StudioAmped Concert Series. The boys had the privilege of playing Panama City Beach’s first SandJam Fest, headlined by Fitz and the Tantrums, Incubus and Sublime.

“That felt like a once in a lifetimetype opportunity, to be honest,” Crutcher said. “You know, there’s some big artists backstage with you. You’re on the beach, there’s plenty of beer going around and it’s amazing. That was our first, big-time festival.”

“It made me want to do a Gulf Coast tour, from South Florida to Texas,” Tanner said. “We’ve recently booked shows for Mobile, so we’re starting to expand.

Touring, I think, would be the dream for all of us.”

Until then, you can find them all over the Panhandle, playing original riffs, soulful improvisations and, of course, plenty of Grateful Dead.

In “Help is on the Way,” Jerry Garcia sang, “Without love in the dream, it’ll never come true.”

The Graytones have plenty to spare. EC photography by TODD DOUGLAS PHOTOGRAPHY

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STAGE

CHARACTER DEVELOPMENT Theater guides children through stages

by MARTHA J. LAGUARDIA-KOTITE

EMERALD COAST THEATRE COMPANY

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people in the past year, the Fishers are achieving their goal of enriching and entertaining residents and visitors through professional productions. At the same time, via their Theatre for Young Audiences, they have engaged children who study performing arts, sharpen their communication skills and build their confidence working in a team environment in the educational theater.

“We are passionate about serving our community through the art of theater and the power of storytelling,” said Nathanael Fisher. “We would also like ECTC to serve as a cultural destination and help widen the base of tourists who visit our home on the Emerald Coast.”

ECTC is nationally recognized as a regional theatre in the United States. It has gained acceptance into the Theatre Communications Group, which strengthens, nurtures and promotes professional notfor-profit American theatre. With this achievement, ECTC’s name and body of work can be shared across the nation and, by extension, connects ECTC to the global theatre community.

“The celebration of artistic talent

All professional shows are performed Thursday through Saturday at 7:30 p.m. and on Sunday at 2 p.m. For more information on classes for young adults or to purchase tickets or subscriptions, visit EmeraldCoastTheatre.org or call (850) 684-0323.

February–March 2019 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

promotes a larger public understanding and appreciation for theater,” Fisher stressed.

The ECTC is thriving, given strong community support and the growing number of tourists who attend shows. The current professional theater season has included comedy, classic tales and favorites such as “The Spitfire Grill,” a heartwarming musical about love, relationships and redemption. Shows continuing through April include “Bad Dates: Starring Jennifer Steele,” a sweet and sharp comedy about a young woman’s dreadful encounters when she re-enters the dating world and “Around the World in 80 Days,” the Jules Verne classic tale for the whole family.

Nearly 500 children are involved with ECTC’s educational programs.

↑ Nick Trolian and Hope Golds starred in a

production of “Sylvia,” a play which visits the mind of a rescued puppy while exploring human relationships.

PHOTOS BY NIKKI HEADRICK COURTESY OF ECTC

“Z

ip-A-Dee-Doo-Dah, Zip-A-Dee-A, my oh my, what a wonderful day,” sings Alice, hurrying along on a perfect summer day in the park.

The “park,” however, is actually a theater stage, which comes to life during an enactment of Disney’s “Alice in Wonderland JR.” Filling audiences with delight, “Wonderland” is among the children’s programs produced by the Emerald Coast Theatre Company in Miramar Beach. As Alice proceeds on her improbable journey, teens and pre-teens decked out in colorful costumes fill the stage. There’s Tweedle Dee and Tweedle Dum, the Caterpillar, the March Hare, the Mad Hatter, the Queen of Hearts and the mesmerizing Cheshire Cat. This joyful, magical creation, performed on Grand Boulevard, started as a dream of Nathanael Fisher, producing artistic director of the Emerald Coast Theatre Company. With his wife, Anna Fisher, he has launched ECTC, a nonprofit professional company that regularly involves children in its productions, into its sixth season.

Having entertained more than 10,700

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← “A Mark Twain Storybook,” with cast members Dylan Garafolo, Anastasia Dengerud and Josh Birdsong, presented a dramatic retelling of stories featuring characters including Huck Finn and Tom Sawyer. ↑ The Emerald Coast Theatre’s production of “Alice in Wonderland” gives children opportunities to get into character.

Children eagerly attend camps in the summer and weekend practices during the school year.

“They love it, feel safe and accepted,” said Gileah Taylor, whose 12-year-old daughter Clara is in her third year with ECTC. Clara plays a Caterpillarpart part, the head, in “Wonderland.”

“I can be myself,” she said, describing herself as “sassy, big and loud.” Of the caring and supportive theatre community, she said, “Everyone’s real.

There are parts for everyone.”

Clara is learning an important life lesson, too. “It doesn’t matter “We are what other people think,” she said. passionate “They will judge you no matter about serving what. Just do what you love.” She credits the theater with giving her our community more confidence even if she doesn’t through the art always get the role she most wants. of theater and ECTC delights in showcasing new and emerging talent. the power of “In a world where women still storytelling.” need to be heard and recognized, — Nathanael Fisher we have some amazing female students who have participated in our educational programming,” Fisher said. He selected 13-year-old Soulara Joslin’s original play for inclusion in the Theatre for Young Audiences program. It was later made part of the Northwest Florida Theatre Festival.

ECTC’s professional programs and theatre for young audiences have proved to be a smash hit for adults and families, a destination filled with wonder and laughter that keeps people coming back for more. EC

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expression

BOOKS

GOOD MUSE Literary federation gives writers the nudge they need

by LIESEL SCHMIDT

The pen, it is said, is mightier than the sword. It is much more than a weapon. It is a tool of self-expression and documentation and creation.

Words on a page — whether hastily scribbled in a tumble of inspiration, carefully plotted and planned to construct a picture in the mind’s → eye, or typed and retyped and As a beginning writer, Edward Stanford was rearranged until perfected — a member of a writer’s are forever, captured and group that served him as placed on display to be an important source of motivation. Today, he seen, to be appreciated and leads the West interpreted.

Florida Literary Motivated by the importance of Federation. writings and their place in the history of communities, a collection of Pensacolaarea organizations formed a federation in 1986, bringing together the Pensacola Women’s Club; Santa Rosa Historical Society; Bagdad Village Preservation Association; University of West Florida/ Pace Library; Pensacola Museum of Support and encouragement are pivotal Art; Pensacola Press Club; St. Michael’s in writing. They are the very things that Cemetery Foundation; Pensacola State can give a dream a chance to succeed and College; West Florida Genealogical unleash hidden talents. Both ingredients Society; Pensacola Historical Society; are available in abundance when members and Museum and the Pensacola Historical of the WFLF gather for their weekly Preservation Society. meetings and monthly open mics, publish Operating under the collective name their anthologies and hold their contests. of the West Florida Literary Federation, “Being part of a writing community like the nonprofit organization unites people the West Florida Literary Federation is interested in the literary heritage of West important for writers because it inspires Florida. Further, the federation promotes them to write and to keep writing,” said literary efforts through various programs, WFLF president Edward Stanford. workshops, awards and other activities, and Too, the federation is a source of advice it educates, encourages and supports its and guidance. Members obtain thoughtful members in their diverse literary endeavors. assessments and unbiased critiques of their

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ideas and words in a forum that welcomes poets, fiction writers and tellers of history.

“Being part of a writer’s group helped me personally to begin writing, and knowing that people were expecting to see my new work every week was a big motivator to make progress,” Stanford offered. “The positive feedback, encouragement and suggestions were so important. I seriously question if I would have ever begun writing without the environment I was given by the WFLF.” And a future-minded environment it seems to be. The federation awards scholarships and cash prizes to student writers in hopes that their writing careers photography by STEVEN GRAY

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

979 US HWY 98 E

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will take off when they are provided with the means they need to explore their passions and talents.

The pen harbors no prejudice, no expectations of ability, interest or technique. Instead, it offers an outlet, and the WFLF boosts the electric energy already running high in writers alive with the desire to write.

“Our members have benefitted from the educational programs we offer and feel deeply encouraged to pursue their writing when they see their work published in our anthology,” Stanford said, referring to Emerald Coast Review, a collection of work by local writers, artists, and poets published biannually. It serves as a testament to the Pensacola area’s literary talent. So, too, does The Legend, a monthly newsletter published by WFLF that showcases works submitted by its members in styles ranging from fiction to memoir to poetry.

Creating an even greater platform, monthly open mics held by WFLF are free and open ↑ West Florida Literary Federation members have combined to author not only to members but a growing library of titles. to non-members as well, giving them an ideal space to express themselves in front of their peers, fellow community members and other writers. Beginning in 2016, WFLF became part of the annual Foo Foo Festival, offering workshops in various forms of writing to attendees and bringing acclaimed writers to the event to provide their expertise, their own words of encouragement and their guidance.

Ever-changing though it might be, the world still waits hungrily for the words of talented writers, expectantly hearing those words come to life in songs, watching them play out on television and in movies, and greedily poring over them as they turn pages.

Writings, when all is written and done, are an invaluable part of human culture. Organizations FOR MORE like the West Florida INFORMATION Literary Federation give To learn more about them the chance to have West Florida Literary Federation, call (850) life and to be fully real449-6771 or visit sites. ized. Words can change google.com/site/ the world — but first wflfonline. they must be written. EC

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Serenity on the Farm Arnett’s Gulfside Farm and Stables offers an escape from the everyday bustle, allowing a connection with life’s simple, natural pleasures.

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SPONSORED REPORT

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62

mile from the beach, nestled discreetly off of Scenic Highway 30A, Arnett’s welcomes visitors to 20 acres of serene solace. Horses amble their way through acres of pasture while awaiting their riders. An impressive barn and a bevy of event spaces invite you to dream big. The natural beauty, myriad wildlife and the freedom to wander are unparalleled in the area. It feels as if you’re in the middle of nowhere but also exactly where you’re meant to be.

Arnett’s recently won a Best of the Emerald Coast award for Best Place for Kids Birthday Party.

Children’s birthday packages include pavilion or tack room access and plenty of furry friends to pet.

Party packages aren’t limited to

February–March 2019 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

kids; many adults have hosted birthday parties, reunions, business retreats and more.

Weddings are another specialty because of the property’s laid-back elegance, abundance of service options and picturesque setting perfect for photographs. Whether it’s a small ceremony by the lake or a large reception in the barn for up to 700 guests, Arnett’s offers customizable wedding packages that cater to the couple’s needs. With the scenic backgrounds already present, the event staff makes the planning process even easier by providing preferred vendors and on-site catering by Signature Catering 30A. “Whether it’s kids, adults, families or couples, people love coming here to relax and simply enjoy the beauty of their surroundings and each other’s company,” said Jennifer Sundal, Event Director and Social Media Coordinator for Arnett’s.

Arnett’s invites you to celebrate and savor life’s occasions — big or small. While Gulfside Trailrides, LLC will be discontinuing at the end of February, please stay tuned for the next phase of the Horse Farm! We have been honored to be accepted into such an amazing community for the last seven years.

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gastro&gusto FEB/MAR 2019

DINING, IMBIBING AND LIVING LIFE TO THE FULLEST

↖

TWO-PERSON JOB This 38-ounce Tomahawk Ribeye is enough for two hearty appetites.

DINING OUT

PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE DISTRICT

A STAKE IN DOWNTOWN The District feeds Pensacola’s appetite for sophisticated dining

by THOMAS J. MONIGAN

DINING IN

Gone Shrimpin’

|| LIBATIONS

Broussard’s Cajun Luau

|| DINING GUIDE

See Page 134

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A

fter several years of planning, yearlong construction and an investment in the neighborhood of $3.75 million, The District — Seville Steak & Seafood opened its doors in downtown Pensacola last summer.

The opening provided a double celebration for the Mitchell family, whose Seville Quarter complex directly across the street was marking its 51st anniversary.

“It’s really impressive,” Jack Williams, Seville Quarter’s general manager, said about the new restaurant. “I think we’ve assembled a terrific management team including the chef. We’ve been a long time working on that place, and having it accent what we have here at Seville Quarter will be beneficial for both sides of the street.”

Wilmer Mitchell, Williams’s stepfather, was Bob Snow’s lawyer in 1967 when Snow opened Rosie O’Grady’s in what had been an empty tobacco warehouse on East Government Street.

After decades of expansion, Mitchell took over ownership of Seville Quarter in 1988. Eight members of his family are currently involved with operating its eight combined venues, which they refer to as the “Seville Entertainment District.”

Once the Mitchells came up with the idea for The District Located in a 19th— Seville Steak & Seafood, it century building on the didn’t take them long to reach former site of Spanish and British forts out for an old friend to run the new operation.

Seating: downstairs Pensacola native Gil dining, 165; secondCarmichael rose from doorfloor lounge, 120; man in the 1970s to become second-floor private dining, 16 general manager of Seville Quarter in the 1980s.

Lunch served 11 a.m.

“We’ve tried to preserve to 5 p.m., Tuesday the historical nature of the through Saturday building and its beauty,” Carmichael said of the resSunday brunch served 11 a.m. to 3 p.m taurant informally known as The District, “but we’ve also Dinner served 5 p.m. added a very contemporary to 10:30 p.m., Tuesday feel in some of the design through Saturday features and the lighting.”

Carmichael’s wife Kathy Upstairs lounge open and her parents, Bob and from 5 p.m. to 11:30 p.m., Tuesday Jeannie Goodwin, were key through Saturday staff members during his days at Seville Quarter.

THE DISTRICTSEVILLE STEAK & SEAFOOD

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Gil Charmichael, general manager of Pensacola’s Seville Quarter, ensured that much of the historical character of the building that now houses The District restaurant was preserved.

↑ The District’s 38-ounce Porterhouse for Two is dry aged in-house for a minimum of 35 days.

PHOTOS BY STEVEN GRAY (CARMICHAEL) AND COURTESY OF THE DISTRICT

↑ Featured entrees (clockwise from bottom of top photo): Tomahawk Ribeye, Scottish Salmon Oscar, Pecan Crusted Sea Scallops, Cheshire Farms Dry Aged Pork Chop. The District (lower photo) offers a vast wine selection, including one well-suited to every diner’s palate.

“We’re back to our roots, and I love it,” Kathy Carmichael said. “The District is something that Pensacola really needs, and I can’t think of a better person to run it.”

Gil Carmichael summarized it as “a very good fit” and added, “Wilmer and I think on the same wave length, and he’s been phenomenally supportive.

This has been a dream of ours for a long time. The synergy is good, and the reaction has been overwhelmingly

positive. We’re going to be here for the long haul.”

Executive Chef Josh Warner has used his 20-plus years of experience to develop a menu that features 45 items, plus side dishes and add-ons.

Without hesitation, Warner said that his dry-aged beef dishes are at the top of a list of specialties.

“That dry-aging chamber is what sets us apart,” Warner said. “I researched hundreds of menus from across the

country and around the world to develop what we are doing.”

And the response?

“Overwhelmingly positive,” Warner said. “I hear it when I go out and talk to tables every night. That’s what we’re here for and that’s why I got into this business.”

At this writing, Warner said that eventually he would add daily specials, “so we can do whatever we want to do.”

Several weeks after opening, Carmichael said his biggest surprise was the response to the 112 items on the wine list. It was compiled by two certified sommeliers.

“It’s significantly above what we had projected,” he said. “The Pensacola dining market in the past 10 years has become very sophisticated. We’ve watched the market grow, and we believe we’re a part of that.”

There is piano music nightly in the upstairs lounge, and customers can walk out on the balcony if they wish.

Carmichael said there are plans to expand the musical offerings with more players. He also said that when it comes to attire, customers are free to be “completely casual.”

“That doesn’t mean beach attire, but we have people in shirts and shorts, all the way to suit and tie. We want people to feel comfortable, whether they’re locals or visitors.” EC

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gastro & gusto

DINING IN

Gone Shrimpin’ The hard part is choosing how to prepare them

by LIESEL SCHMIDT

“S

hrimp is the fruit of the sea. You can barbecue it, boil it, broil it, bake it, sauté it. Dey’s uh, shrimp-kabobs, shrimp creole, shrimp gumbo. Panfried, deep-fried, stir-fried, pineapple shrimp, lemon shrimp, coconut shrimp, pepper shrimp, shrimp soup, shrimp stew, shrimp salad, shrimp and potatoes, shrimp burger, shrimp sandwich.”

↖ Peeled, seasoned and skewered, a plump shrimp proves irresistible.

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That list has been mimicked and recalled time and again by people who smile when they think of the effortlessly endless enumeration of shrimp’s many fine uses rattled off by Benjamin “Bubba” Buford Blue in the movie “Forrest Gump” as he worked his way, side by side with Forrest, through the mindlessness of their menial tasks in boot camp.

While the Bayou La Batre-born character might seem to have offered up every imaginable preparation known to man, the wondrous ways that shrimp can be enjoyed are more than even Bubba could recite. And we along the Gulf Coast are lucky enough to have some of the most delectable kinds of these strange looking little crustaceans right off our shores.

There are, of course, certain things to know in order to achieve spectacular shrimp in any prepared form. Cook them right, and you’ll enjoy plump, juicy semicircles of edible ecstasy; do it wrong, and those little suckers will be mealy mouthfuls of mush.

Freshness is a factor, not that frozen shrimp should ever be ruled out.

“Shrimp that are labeled Individually Quick Frozen (IQF) have undergone a process of flash freezing on the boat immediately after they’ve been caught,” said Paul Ruiz, Louisiana native and owner of Where Y’At Seafood Market in Navarre.

“This method of freezing prevents the

February–March 2019 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

↗ Colorful and nutritious: sauteed shrimp with fresh garden vegetables

PHOTOS BY CASTRO_LUIS (SAUTE SHRIMP), INDIGOLOTOS (GRILLED) AND BHOFACK2 (CAJUN AND COCONUT ) / ISTOCK / GETTY IMAGES PLUS

← A traditional Cajun shrimp boil includes corn on the cob, diced potatoes and spicy sausage. ↑ Fried coconut shrimp make for a delectable combination of flavors.

shrimp from becoming stuck together and produces a product that is hard to differentiate from fresh shrimp. The main advantage is that freezing them makes the freshest-tasting shrimp readily available even when they’re no longer in season.”

If you’re using fresh, in-season shrimp, pay close attention to appearance.

“Two of the best indicators of freshness are the color and the smell,” says James

Duff, manager at Destin Ice & Seafood.

“The head should be clear and bright, not brown or black, and they shouldn’t have a fishy odor.”

Fresh shrimp have great appeal, but they need to be deveined prior to being cooked. That’s not as daunting a task as you might imagine. It’s quite simple, in fact, if you follow Navarre Seafood owner David Roberts’s advice.

“Use the backside of a knife to follow along the back of the shrimp to make a shallow cut, and then remove the vein with the tip of your knife,” Roberts recommends.

A fisherman since childhood, Roberts has been supplying Navarre with fresh seafood since 2005 and knows well the tricks of the trade, not to mention some of the best ways to cook shrimp.

“Boiling or sautéing shrimp is really the most flavorful method, and because they’re so small, they take a very short amount of time to be fully cooked, and they’ll change to a nice, pink color when they’re finished,” he said.

Baking or grilling also results in shrimp that make your mouth water in anticipation — just be mindful of the time.

“Grilling shrimp only takes about two minutes per side,” said Michael Valin, manager at Maria’s Seafood in Pensacola, whose chops in the kitchen come from his experience as a chef. “If you’re baking shrimp, keep them in the oven for no more than eight minutes.”

And, of course, no one can resist shrimp coated in batter and fried to a crisp, golden brown. “Frying shrimp takes only a few minutes, just watch the color of the batter as it cooks,” Valin goes on.

Whatever your preference, shrimp are one more example of what makes life on the Gulf so enticing.

So boil ’em, bake ’em, sauté ’em, fry ’em or grill ’em. Just make sure you’re eating ’em. EC

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↙ Broussard’s Lily Markovitz serves up the specialty of the house. The Cajun Luau has lots of cooling power.

A

fter more than 20 years of introducing folks in Pensacola to their Cajun specialties, Cory and Carl Broussard have landed in Navarre Beach.

Broussard’s Bayou Grill and Cajun Market opened in October 2017 just over the Navarre bridge and not far from the fishing pier. It has six times more dining space than its sister restaurant to the west.

During its debut period, Broussard’s bartenders got together to create a signature drink for the establishment.

Say hello to the “Cajun Luau.”

“When we first opened, we were just going back and forth, bouncing ideas off each other, and this was actually the first drink we came up with,” said mixologist Adam Fanion. “We just came back to it, DIRECTIONS and everybody loves it.”

In a hurricane glass Just how popular is it? combine: “We sell a couple hundred a week ➸ ¾ ounce during the summer season,” Fanion said coconut rum without hesitation. ➸ ¾ ounce vodka ➸ 3 ounces of Andy DeMartin was in charge of the pineapple juice bar when Broussard’s opened. He has ➸ 3 ounces of since become director of sales for the orange juice restaurant’s parent company, Cajun Top with ¼ ounce Specialty Meats, Inc. Grenadine; “The Cajun Luau is an easy drinker, Do not shake or stir; and garnish with and it’s very appealing to the eyes,” orange slice and DeMartin said. “It’s not too sweet, and cherry. it’s not too tart. It’s very refreshing to have out there on the deck while you’re eating Cajun food. It has that cooling power to take down some of the spice in our food.

It’s a great complement to our menu.”

DeMartin confirmed Fanion’s estimate of just how well the Cajun Luau can sell during peak periods.

“It’s been one of our biggest sellers. It’s a very beachoriented drink, so it went well with the theme of the restaurant, ‘Where the Bayou Meets the Beach.’ ” Regular customers quickly made Cajun Luau a favorite, according to DeMartin.

“It’s a call, they come in and ask for it by name,” he said. “It’s an all-star drink, without a doubt.”

Floor manager Samantha Baggett just smiled when asked about the Cajun Luau.

“I think that it’s something you can’t get anywhere else,” Baggett said. “It’s a special little twist for our restaurant. It’s unique. It’s ours.”

“It’s our top seller, especially on the weekends,” bartender Lilly Markovitz said.

“What I really like is that it’s got the ombré look,” she added, using a term usually reserved for hair coloring. “I like how it goes from light orange to yellow to red.” EC

↙ Cajun Luau

LIBATIONS

Broussard’s Cajun Luau Cocktail unites the bayou and the beach

by THOMAS J. MONIGAN

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photography by STEVEN GRAY

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SHE’S

COME

for the

TOP ALEXA GUARACHI CLIMBS THE TENNIS LADDER

ALEXA GUARACHI AND HER DOUBLES PARTNER,

Erin Routliffe, sat dejected at the Bank of England Sports Center in Roehampton, England. It had appeared that they would make it in to the qualifying tournament for The Championships, Wimbledon. But, with five minutes left in the sign-in period, the one-time University of Alabama tennis stars were informed that they had been bumped from the field, which is established based on the combined world rankings of the players. Then, the unexpected happened. The pair was summoned to the referee’s office.

There had been a mistake. THEY WERE IN.

STORY BY STEVE BORNHOFT

72

//

PHOTO BY TODD DOUGLAS PHOTOGRAPHY

February–March 2019 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

Alexa Guarachi, the most prized student of her teaching pro parents, has her sights set on the Olympic Games. She has gained the confidence that she can play with anyone.

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in hopes of gaining an automatic entry to the Tokyo Olympics in 2020 by winning a gold medal there.

After spending a few days at home following the U.S. Open, Guarachi, who now lives in Bay Point in Panama City Beach, played in Chicago and then embarked on travels that included stops in Uzbekistan and at the Hong Kong Open, where she and partner Giuliana Olmos of Mexico reached the semifinals.

“Hong Kong was a successful tournament for Alexa,” Fernando understated things.

“It is very exciting to find that she is now playing some of the best players in tennis.”

And doing so competitively.

To reach the semis in Hong Kong, Guarachi and Olmos defeated the No. 10 team in the world, American Abigail Spears and Alicja Rosolska of Poland. They advanced to play Zhang Shuai of China and an Australian, the heavily muscled Samantha Stosur, who won doubles titles at the U.S. Open (2005) and the French Open (2006) and was the U.S. Open singles champion in 2011. At one time, Stosur was the No. 1 ranked doubles player in the world.

“It was surprising,” said Fernando, who watched the match on television, “but Alexa and her partner wound up playing the ball toward Stosur because the Chinese girl was doing so well. They had to change their strategy on the fly.”

Guarachi and Olmos played a strong first set against the favorites, falling 4-6, before faltering in the second set, won by Stosur and Zhang, 6-1. Afterward, Fernando was inclined to call his daughter to congratulate her on her fine showing.

“But, really, she didn’t want to talk about it,” he said. “We needed to have a conversation and celebrate how well she did, but she was very upset that she had lost.”

Guarachi always has been highly competitive, said her mother Holly, who recalled that, as a child, “Alexa always wanted to be the one who could run the fastest and jump the highest. Even today, she and her boyfriend (attorney Vince

February–March 2019 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

Alexa Guarachi prepares to return a serve during tournament play in Gstaad, Switzerland, where she won her first World Tennis Association doubles title in July.

Bruner Jr. of Panama City, the son of the former state senator) compete at darts and Scrabble, whatever. It’s fun, though, not ‘I won and you lost.’ ” Holly served as her daughter’s first coach and held out the opportunity to “one day practice with your father, if you are good enough” as an incentive to Guarachi. Both Holly and Fernando are certified teaching pros, but he is senior in that regard. Fernando was the director of tennis at Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort when he met Holly, then an FSU student, who worked for a semester at the pro shop.

Holly played tennis in high school, then moved to Turkey where her father, with the Air Force, was stationed when she graduated. She traveled, took some college courses — the University of Maryland had a presence at the Incirlik Air Base — and left the game of tennis behind until she returned to the United States and met her future husband.

PHOTOS BY TODD DOUGLAS PHOTOGRAPHY (FAMILY) AND ROBERT HRADIL (GSTAAD, SWITZERLAND)

Guarachi, now 28, and Routliffe made the most of the opportunity. They won both of their matches at Roehampton, and they were on their way to the most prestigious tennis tournament in the world.

There, in July, they lost in the first round to the eventual doubles champions, but made a respectable showing, taking their opponents from the Czech Republic to three sets. And, there, Guarachi graduated to the big leagues of tennis.

“I had been to Wimbledon as a junior, but stepping onto the court as a professional was a totally different thing,” Guarachi said. “It definitely lived up to the hype.

Playing at that level, the accommodations are better and the support is greater. I looked around the locker room and there was a former champion, Simona Halep.

“But, Wimbledon wasn’t as scary as I thought it was going to be. It put things in a new perspective for me. I realized that I am in very good company.”

So, by the time Guarachi arrived at the U.S. Open in late August, she felt like she belonged. (She had last been there as a child of 12 when, escorted by her father, she collected autographs from the likes of Steffi Graf and Martina Hingis on an oversized tennis ball.)

Again, Guarachi and her partner (Vera Lapko, a native of Belarus) were knocked out in the round of 64. But Guarachi returned to the Destin Tennis Club at Seascape — where she learned to walk and to hold a racquet and where her father, Fernando, has been the pro for more than 30 years — with the confidence that she can accomplish her ambitious goals for 2019.

Ranked 77th in the world following the 2018 season among women’s doubles players, she hopes to crack the top 50, play in all four Grand Slam tournaments — she and her partner, Alison Van Uytvanck of Belgium, were eliminated in the first round of the Australian Open in January — and qualify for a spot on Chile’s Olympic tennis team.

Representing Chile, Guarachi will play in the Pan Am Games in Lima, Peru, in July

She won the consolation round trophy and told her parents that she no longer wanted to practice. She just wanted to play tournaments.

To this day, she says, “Drills are no fun.”

↑ The Guarachi family revolves around tennis.

Pictured at the Destin Tennis Club are, from left, Stefan Guarchi; his younger sister, Alexa; and their parents, Holly and Fernando.

Holly challenged Fernando to a tennis match, which she counts as their first date.

He gave her points — two when he was serving and one on her serve — but won, 7-5.

“I have slowly been getting my revenge ever since,” Holly said.

She credits her husband with teaching her how to teach.

“He was very specific about mechanics,” Holly said. “You have to establish the correct mechanics as a foundation. Repeat them, repeat them, repeat them. Bad habits are hard to break. I love working with beginners because there is nothing that needs to be undone.”

Holly began working with her daughter on the court when Guarachi was 6.

Sessions were limited to 30 minutes.

“Sometimes, they only went 20 and then it was like, ‘Oh, squirrel,’” Holly recalled.

Guarachi recalls very well her experience as a 7-year-old playing her first tournament, held at Bluewater Bay.

The Chilean Connection Fernando attended an American Catholic high school in Chile.

“One of the priests there was a tennis player and a tennis fan,” Fernando recalled.

“He knew that I was one of the top young tennis players in Chile, and he contacted his brother in South Carolina to see about getting me into college in the United States.”

As it happened, the tennis coach at the University of South Carolina at the time was on his way to Tuscaloosa, where Alabama athletic director Bear Bryant had discovered an interest in international athletes, primarily in the interest of strengthening his football teams.

Fernando was awarded a full-ride tennis scholarship.

“There were a few other Latin American students at Alabama, but I made a point of hanging out only with American kids,” he said. “The best way for me to learn English was to immerse myself in it.”

He would discover that textbook English didn’t always coincide with the colloquial speech heard on campus.

Fernando’s first tennis instructors emphasized fundamentals in the same way that he later would. He attended a clinic in Chile, where students began by practicing strokes without striking a ball.

As he started to enjoy tennis success, Fernando decided to forgo soccer, easily the most popular sport in Chile, and to focus on tennis. When other boys were kicking a ball around a field, he was hitting a ball against a wall.

Holly passed Alexa on to Fernando when their daughter was 11, but he already had discovered her competitive nature.

She was “7 or 8 years old” when she approached her dad and asked, “If I hit the (continued on page 128) ball over the net

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The Great Disrupter

PHOTO COURTESY OF 360 BLUE

Ferocious FOURce permanently altered Northwest Florida landscape

Many of the people who fled Northwest Florida in advance of the storm had the sense that this one was going to be different.

Hurricane Michael would prove them right. Just a day or two prior to landfall, Michael was expected to be the kind of storm that even an untethered mobile home might survive. Instead, it intensified with alarming quickness to Category 4 proportions and ultimately would make the survivability of entire cities a question. It taxed first responders and relief agencies and patience and resolve, and ravaged the most elemental underpinnings of life: communication, possessions, shelter, livelihoods. It was a deforestation program.

For the marine environment, Michael did good things, stirring up bay bottoms, releasing nutrients and recharging food chains.

And, for the human environment, too, there were positives amid the destruction. The storm brought together people who might otherwise have remained strangers forever. Together, they compared notes about the risks and rewards of coastal living. And together, they are ensuring that the 11 counties roughed up by Michael are mounting comebacks. — Steve Bornhoft

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Kindnesses of Neighbors

As a Red Cross “regional disaster coordinator” — he’d probably change his job title, given the chance — Bob Pearce is responsible for half of the most hurricane prone state in the nation.

After a major storm, people were a stranger but once

BY STEVE BORNHOFT

B

ob Pearce fought back tears and paused for a time to regain his composure when asked to recall when he realized that Hurricane Michael was going to be the big one.

That emotional moment was a departure for Pearce.

Unflappable, he stands 6-5, is hard to coax a laugh from and has seen an awful lot. For 17 years, he has worked for the American Red Cross, as a chapter executive in Panama City and in recent years as a regional disaster director whose theater of operations includes more than half of the counties in Florida.

He has been deployed as a member of recovery teams to disasters in Florida and beyond. In so doing, he is called upon to maintain an appropriate measure of professional detachment.

But there is no place like home.

“I was born and raised in Panama City,” Pearce said during an interview conducted on Nov. 27, almost seven weeks after the third most powerful storm in modern history mauled much of Northwest Florida. “To have to do disaster work in my hometown, that has made it very personal. It’s one thing if you are away in South Florida after a storm or in California due to the wildfires or in the Northeast following Super Storm Sandy, but it’s entirely different when it’s your friends and neighbors and their homes. This is where I grew up. These are schools that I attended.

“It’s hard to step out of it when you’re living it.”

Pearce was at an ad hoc regional disaster headquarters that had been established at Red Cross offices in Tallahassee when Hurricane Michael’s storm surge erased much of Mexico Beach and its winds reordered communities from Millville to Marianna.

The Red Cross had been monitoring Michael for two weeks, ever since it appeared as a disturbance off the coast of Africa. Well after it entered the Gulf of Mexico, it was expected to make landfall as a tropical storm or a minor hurricane.

Even so, 14 shelters were opened in 11 counties, three of them in Bay County at Northside Elementary School, the Deane Bozeman School and initially at Merritt Brown Middle School. As the stormcast worsened, county officials thought better of Merritt Brown — “something about the generator,” Pearce said — and moved evacuees already present there to Rutherford High School.

“We had plans in place, and we had significant materials and resources moved into proximity to us at a staging area in Thomasville, Georgia,” Pearce recounted.

“We were totally prepared for a Category 1 hurricane.”

Then, as the storm’s internal pressure kept dropping, a sense of alarm overtook the Tallahassee headquarters.

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“We now knew that something big was happening and we were scrambling to add more personnel, but in a matter of hours there was no way we could be ready for what was to come,” Pearce said.

The storm roared ashore as a strong Cat 4, just a few miles per hour shy of a Cat 5. Red Cross personnel in the shelters stayed with their clients while trying to set aside fears about what was happening to their own homes.

At Rutherford High School, a portion of the roof was compromised and evacuees had to be moved within the building to safer, drier locations.

To Pearce, in Tallahassee, came the realization that he had a hard time talking about.

“My wife and her parents and my mother and my son and his wife and their son had all been in the middle of the windfield, and I didn’t know what had happened to

A New Certainty: In battered towns, ‘everything is getting better’

PHOTO BY MICHAEL BOOINI

Bob Pearce of the Red Cross posted the following to his personal Facebook page on Nov. 11 of last year.

them and I had no way to find out,” Pearce painfully recalled. “All communication was down. Even emergency operations centers in affected counties had no way to reach the state or anybody else.”

A day after landfall, Pearce departed Tallahassee for Bay County in a Red Cross truck with Jeff Parker, a regional disaster officer from South Florida. Interstate 10 would prove “impenetrable.” Pearce dropped down to State 20 and conditions were little better. Twice, he was stopped by downed trees, but on both occasions men with chainsaws materialized to clear the road enough for Pearce and Parker to resume their progress.

They made their way to the Bozeman

School, located 12 miles north of Lynn Haven on State 77, checked in with Red Cross personnel there and found that the shelter was in good shape. Leaving the school, Pearce found that traffic headed into town was backed up for miles, but he caught a break. A National Guard major permitted Pearce to slip his truck into the middle of a southbound convoy and he made it to Panama City in 30 minutes.

Pearce made the rounds and discovered that his home in Cedar Grove, while surrounded by homes either heavily damaged or destroyed, hadn’t lost a shingle — he has a three-year-old roof and a wind mitigation certificate. He found that all of his family members were

For 17 years, I have worked disaster relief operations in lots of places. Some large and some smaller. Sometimes a single community and sometimes an entire state.

Today, I am writing as a Bay County resident.

I have never seen or worked with more compassionate, effective leadership than I have been privileged to work with right here in my hometown. At all levels. I know there is a long way to go, but we have made it an incredibly long ways in 31 days!

As hurricane survivors, my family and I share many of the uncertainties and frustrations everyone has. We also have in common with everyone who reads this the one most important thing. We are not hurricane victims. We are blessed to be hurricane survivors!

Everything is not perfect.

When was it ever? Even if we don’t always think we are seeing it or we despair that it is taking too long, everything is getting better. I can’t think of a single moment, ever before, when I knew that as I do today.

Friends, if we have made it this far in 31 days, imagine where we will get in 31 weeks!

How profound will the positive changes in our lives and our community be in 31 months?

I can’t wait to see! I’m going to keep fighting to get there.

I’m going to support amazing leadership. We are all going to get there together.

I am proud of you all and proud to stand behind you.

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fine except for his son, a firefighter/ paramedic who injured his spine and spinal cord while working around his Forest Park house after the storm passed.

Alex Pearce, paralyzed from the waist down, was flown by helicopter to Fort Walton Beach where emergency surgery was performed. At this writing, he is “relearning how to walk” at the Shepherd Center rehab hospital in Atlanta.

These days, Pearce frequently uses the word, “stood.” Maybe that’s an understandable unconscious response to all that Michael toppled: cell towers, homes, schools, businesses, dreams.

“Our volunteers stood their ground.”

“The local news media stood up and did their job.”

“We stood up the hurricane season sign at the Red Cross building in Panama City.”

That sign, which Pearce termed “iconic,” has been a Panama City fixture for decades. Updated daily, it displays the number of days remaining in or until hurricane season. The sign was salvageable. The Red Cross building, which had been in service since the early 1950s, was not.

‘We had issues’ For days after the storm departed Florida, Panama City and surrounding communities and the shelters, specifically, were without power and water.

Conditions in the evacuation centers rapidly deteriorated.

“When you have hundreds of people staying in a place and you can’t flush the toilet and you are struggling to get services and portable toilets in there — yes, we had issues,” Pearce said.

At its peak, the shelter program housed about 1,300 people. A total of 2,500 Red Cross personnel were deployed to become part of DR 478-19, the disaster-response number assigned to Hurricane Michael.

They came from throughout the United States and from Mexico, Canada and Europe. Ninety percent were volunteers.

Some left soon after they arrived.

“We brought relief crews in to work the shelters, and nothing we could have said would have prepared them for what they were going to encounter,” Pearce said. “Some volunteers walked in and said, ‘There’s no way. This is not what we signed up for.’ And I don’t hold that

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↑ The building that served as Red Cross headquarters in Panama City was destroyed by Hurricane Michael. Its hurricane season sign had been a fixture for decades. Red Cross employees, from left: Kelly Jo Bailey, Bob Pearce, Monica Palase, Johnna Alexander.

against them. But we managed to keep those shelters going and just made things a little bit better every day.”

For people who could not shower, watch TV or make a phone call and who didn’t know how their property had fared, something to drink and a hot meal came as the day’s only comfort.

The Red Cross, working with Chartwells, the Bay County school district’s food service contractor, got its meals machine up and running within 48 hours.

In four weeks after the storm, the Red Cross served 600,000 meals at the shelters and elsewhere. They distributed more than 800,000 snacks (bottles of water with chips or cookies).

In addition, the Red Cross established a major warehouse operation in Marianna.

Thirty-five box trucks delivered more than 100,000 disaster relief supply items to the devastation zone — clean-up kits, shovels, gloves and more.

“Most of the clients we were dealing with had never experienced the aftermath of a major hurricane, and I hope they never have to deal with that again,” Pearce said. “There was a lot of frustration, but there is nothing magic in the world. We may have five shower trailers staged somewhere, but it takes a long time to

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drive them here, especially when road conditions are bad.

“And a shower trailer does you no good if there is no water source for it. Panama City was without water, and the Water Department was making heroic efforts to try to get it back up and running, but meanwhile, we had to get what we call a water buffalo, a big tanker, in place to provide water for the showers.”

On Nov. 27, the census at Arnold High School, the last Bay County shelter in operation in Bay County — at some point evacuees in Panama City were moved to schools in Panama City Beach where power and water were available — stood at 83. Most who remained had been homeless before the storm struck.

Lessons learned In touring the devastation zone, Pearce experienced so many flats that his tires must have resembled a heroine addict’s arm, as many times as they had been punctured.

In Calhoun County, a logging truck pulled Pearce out of a ditch at 1 a.m. It was raining and he rounded a curve on a slick dirt road, swerved to avoid a fallen tree and left the road.

In his travels, he has been extended welcome kindnesses. A Parker family

PHOTOS BY MICHAEL BOOINI (RED CROSS) AND JEREMY COWART / JEREMYCOWART.COM (LANIERS)

insisted that he stop and share in the food they were grilling outdoors. Rolling through a Lynn Haven neighborhood, people cheered his name.

“You drive around and you pass businesses and you realize that all of them are either never going to reopen or they are trying to find a place where they can get up and running again,” Pearce said.

“To stand in Mexico Beach in an area now without structures and to realize that you’re in a place where there used to be houses with people living in them, that’s emotional.”

But, said Pearce, “I didn’t find anyone who was arguing about politics or race or religion or any of the issues that supposedly divide us. Yes, there was some bad stuff going on, there was some looting — there’s always gonna be a few a-holes — but I learned that people in general are much stronger, more resilient, kinder, more compassionate and I’ll just use the word, better, than you might think if you are a heavy consumer of the 24-hour news networks.

“It’s like the Luke Bryan song. Most people are good.”

Pearce said he has long believed that adversity doesn’t build character; it reveals character. He recalled seeing three men in Parker moving about their neighborhood with chainsaws and looking to be helpful.

“They didn’t have to do that,” Pearce said. “They didn’t know most of the people they were checking on. They were just seeing if everyone was OK. Everywhere I went, I saw neighbors helping neighbors. And maybe that is the big takeaway for me from this storm.

“Things can get so bad that the only help you can extend anyone is to your neighbor and the only help you can hope to receive is from your neighbor.”

Generally, Pearce said, the people who fared the worst had done the least to prepare for the storm.

“You cannot preach enough about being prepared, having a plan,” Pearce stressed. “People get tired of hearing that and they’re busy and they don’t have time to worry about whether they have three or four days’ worth of water and food and medicine. They don’t have 20 extra bucks to stock up.

“But if a storm threatens us next year, people will be a lot less complacent. If there is an evacuation order, more people will leave.”

According to county officials, only an estimated 20 percent of the more than 100,000 people affected by a mandatory evacuation order, issued in Bay County days before Michael made landfall, actually left.

As a Red Cross chapter leader in Panama City, Pearce once recorded public service announcements during a long-running lull in storm activity that sought donations by reminding people that the agency responds not just to large-scale events, but even to house fires.

For 10 years after Hurricane Wilma stuck the state in 2005, no hurricane made landfall in Florida.

“Around here,” Pearce noted, “we kept saying, ‘We’re due for a big one.’ Well, we’re not due anymore.

“But, you never know.”

Project aims to help Mexico Beach rebound Fundraising website profiles victims

BY STEVE BORNHOFT

T

wo years ago, overtaken by the irresistible lure of family, Kevin Lanier moved from the Seattle area, where he had concluded his career as an air traffic controller, to Mexico Beach.

Mexico Beach appealed to him for two reasons. It was within a day’s drive of family members scattered from Atlanta to South Florida. And it was on the water.

Lanier, who grew up in Douglasville, Georgia, has been a sport fisherman all his life. He vacationed as a child in Panama City Beach and recalls with fondness his first saltwater fishing trip in 1969 aboard a party boat out of Capt.

Anderson’s Marina.

His retirement in 2013 afforded him an opportunity to go into the business of fishing. He ran charters out of Westport, Washington, trolling for salmon and albacore tuna, and bottom fishing for halibut.

When he moved to Florida, his boat, a 34-foot Luhrs built for big water, came with him, and he joined five other charter boat captains who operate from Mexico Beach’s canal.

Today, Lanier’s vessel is on blocks at a Panama City boatyard where it rode out Hurricane Michael, and the Mexico Beach canal is impassable, filled with sediment and storm debris.

Will Lanier be back in business in time for the spring run of Spanish mackerel?

↑ Capt. Kevin Lanier and his wife Cyndi moved to Mexico Beach from Washington to be near family. In their experience, the Pacific Ocean never served up a storm like the Gulf of Mexico did in October. Lanier moved his boat to Panama City in advance of Hurricane Michael.

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to speed its economic recovery by helping businesses reopen their doors.

“That was our big idea,” he said.

It was refined by friends including a policy director with the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity who is familiar with the effectiveness of “micro-grants” awarded to businesses in Houston following Hurricane Harvey.

“By extending businesses money so that they can do things like replenish inventory while they are dealing with insurance companies, adjustors and attorneys, we believe that will help,” Workman said. “We want to get the local economy moving so that visitation will come back.”

In Gatlinburg, Cowart photographed fire victims lying on mattresses that were placed where their bedrooms used to be. Topped in white sheets, the mattresses provided a sharp contrast to the surrounding ash. But a white sheet provides little contrast to white sand, so Workman photographed storm victims lying on a big red heart — 8 feet tall and made by volunteers — and surrounded by rubble.

“We got some great images, and it was a way for people to show their love for their community,” Workman said. “It may seem weird and quirky, but that can be what attracts notice.”

Those images may be found at neverforgottencoast.com. At this writing, a micro-grant application is also located on the website.

On Dec. 31, Workman announced via news release that the grant program would

↑ Michael Scoggins of Killer Seafood in Mexico Beach stretches out on a big heart moments before he is photographed from the air as part of a fundraising project, Never Forgotten Coast. Project founder Alex Workman helped Scoggins get in position.

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be conducted in partnership with the Mexico Beach Artificial Reef Association, a nonprofit that has managed millions of dollars in federal funds. The association amended its mission statement after the hurricane and began receiving donations to a variety of hurricane recovery initiatives that were not set up to receive contributions.

On Jan. 17, Workman reported that an initial round of $1,000 grants had been awarded.

The recipients were: Forgotten Coast Realty, KC Sportfishing, Killer Seafood, Lookout Lounge, Mexico Beach Development Council, Mexico Beach Marina, Pristine Properties Vacation Rentals, Sharon’s Café, and Splendiferous MB (a women’s clothing store).

Jesse Taylor, a Tallahassee graphic artist, created a Never Forgotten Coast logo — an outline of Florida intersected by a heart that encloses much of the Hurricane Michael devastation zone.

“We want the logo to have a life of its own and not be tied to a single event,” Taylor said. “In the future, we believe it can be used in association with the rebuilding effort or causes for celebration.”

Taylor said the logo was embraced rapidly and is, by design, “easily comprehended and immediately recognized. It’s quick.”

Cowart said the devastation in and beyond Mexico Beach was far greater than he anticipated.

“I was so moved by meeting the business owners,” he said. “They all had a smile on their face despite the heavy concern for what’s ahead. There’s a unifying element to these disasters that reminds me of how much more alike we are than different. And we all need each other. As the saying goes, ‘It takes a village.’ And in these situations, it takes a village to come together and rebuild.”

“We want to help make sure that the Mexico Beach that was isn’t completely forgotten,” Workman said. “An infusion of corporate dollars will be required to bring Mexico Beach back, and people understand that there are things that will never be the same, but we hope that the essential character of the city and its charm will endure.”

Added Cowart, “If the people we photographed eventually say our project helped them in tangible ways, we will have succeeded.”

PHOTOS BY NEVERFORGOTTENCOAST.COM (WORKMAN) AND SAIGE ROBERTS (RUDLOE)

“I’m anxiously optimistic,” he said.

“I expect to be fishing, but it may be from Panama City for a while.”

Lanier was lucky, he will tell you. His business, unlike most others in Mexico Beach, was portable. His boat sustained only minor damage to bow rails and the tuna tower. His home, six miles inland, was undamaged. The trees that surround it served to buffer the storm without becoming projectiles.

Recently, Lanier was among a number of Mexico Beach business owners whose post-Michael circumstances were documented by his daughter and sonin-law, Chelsea and Alex Workman of Tallahassee, and by Jeremy Cowart of Nashville. The Workmans are aerial photographers and storytellers. Cowart is a still photographer.

In 2016, Alex Workman and Cowart combined to capture the stories of victims of the Great Smoky Mountains wildfires in Gatlinburg, Tennessee. The stories were posted to a fundraising website (voicesofgburg.com) that generated more than $100,000 in contributions.

“My father-in-law is very much a part of the Mexico Beach community and when we saw photos of the devastation, we felt that we had to use our skills and resources to help the city recover,” Workman said.

“We learned in Gatlinburg that creative individuals can bring about significant change without investing a lot of money.”

Workman figured that that the best way to promote Mexico Beach’s recovery was

A Force and a Part of Nature Hurricanes recharge ecosystems by supplying nutrients BY STEVE BORNHOFT

N

aturalist, researcher, author and businessman Jack Rudloe of Panacea believes that when food is taken from the sea, food should be placed back into the sea.

And Rudloe, who is president of the Gulf Specimen Marine Lab, views the countless trees that were felled by Hurricane Michael as “seafood,” that is, food that can replenish coastal waters.

“The so-called debris and the sea grasses and trees and all that stuff should be dumped out into the ocean to replenish everything, but instead we spend millions and millions of dollars hauling it to landfills where it is just going to rot,” Rudloe said.

“There’s no more driftwood, and really it is part of the natural ecosystem.

Over millions of years, marine animals made adaptations and came to depend on wood getting flushed by rivers and creeks into bays and estuaries.

Shipworms rely on wood, fouling organisms grow on it and oysters attach to it. It’s a beautiful thing.”

Hurricanes, then, can invigorate bays and estuaries in the same ironic way that forest fires are good for forests.

Storms, said Rudloe, have the immediate effect of stirring up the “goop” and the detritus on marsh bottoms and, in such a way, disbursing vitamins and nutrients that promote plankton blooms. Food chains are recharged and, before long, shrimp populations boom.

It’s what Rudloe and others have called the Bubba Gump Phenomenon.

“Over the years, the phenomenon has been reported along the coast from

↑ Naturalist and author Jack Rudloe of Panacea displays a blue crab while standing on his “living dock,” a place where, barring storms, he “stands over the water, satisfies an inherent need for serenity and watches the currents sweep by.”

North Carolina to Texas,” Rudloe and his now late wife Anne wrote in Shrimp: The Endless Quest for Pink Gold. “In the movie ‘Forrest Gump,’ the entire Alabama fleet is washed up on the hill, and when Forrest goes back out and hauls in his nets, he’s buried in shrimp.

That story isn’t all fiction. Some of the best shrimping comes after a big storm that shakes things up and provides brand new structure.”

In The Living Dock, Rudloe cited a study by Dr. Philip Butler at Gulf Breeze Laboratories that demonstrated that waters are much more productive after a storm.

“For several years, Butler hung plaques in the bay and studied colonization,” Rudloe wrote. “He found that after a hurricane, oysters, barnacles, bryozoans and other fouling creatures increased their numbers twoand three-hundredfold.”

Of course, the experience of individual species may vary. Sponge communities, for example, may be washed out to sea. But that, said Rudloe, “is natural, too. Things come and go and no two hurricanes are exactly alike.”

Rudloe’s dock at Panacea, which he built back after Hurricane Michael mangled it, has been through nine hurricanes and tropical storms and has come and gone several times.

“We are stealing food from the ocean,” Rudloe emphasized. “You could easily put trees on barges and disperse them up and down the coast in appropriate areas. We think of nutrients as negative, and the sewage and the pollution we introduce to the water are bad, but nutrients supplied by nature are part of a healthy process that increases productivity and fisheries — and fisheries equal money.

“We overnutrify the environment, but nature, left to its own devices, supplies nutrients in just the right amounts, and it does so at the right time.”

Rudloe is frustrated that public policies impede rather than encourage feeding our estuaries. He is irritated that, in the United States, we discard rather than employ natural substances of value.

China extracts chitin from shrimp shells to make bandages that promote healing of wounds in an extraordinarily short length of time.

“But we just throw it in the landfills,” Rudloe said. “We’re good at that. But, maybe, things will change one day.

Nothing lasts forever, not even our pollution and our alteration of nature and her environment.”

So, it may be that in time we become less civilized or more civilized, depending on how you look at it, and learn to throw trees in the sea.

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Forging Connections Sonder Project reaches out to storm-ravaged neighborhoods BY HANNAH BURKE An old man ambles across a beach soon after a big storm has passed. The beach is littered with thousands of stranded starfish that have been washed ashore.

He spies a child and, as he approaches him, notices that the boy is tossing some number of the marooned creatures back into the water.

“What are you doing, son?” the man asks. “Can’t you see how many there are? You, alone, can’t make much of a difference.”

The boy lobs another starfish into the ocean and then replies, “Well sir, to that one I sure did.”

T

he starfish parable is one that Ashley Horsley, co-founder of the Sonder Project and the CEO of 360 Blue Properties in Santa Rosa Beach, had often reflected upon when overwhelmed, be it in poverty-stricken West Africa, or the impoverished American cities in which she volunteers.

Then, last Oct. 19, nine days after Hurricane Michael transformed the Northwest Florida landscape, Horsley, in her own backyard, felt like a grain of sand in a sea of destruction as she surveyed what the storm had wrought and tried to lend a helping hand.

“As we moved further and further east, I kept thinking, is this the worst of it?” Horsley wrote in a Sonder Project blog entry. “Could it possibly get any worse? It did. It looked like an atomic bomb had gone off or like tornadoes had come through and torn everything up. Entire state forests were flattened. Signage and entire businesses destroyed. I couldn’t help but think that recovery was going to take years and years.”

At the end of the day, Horsley and 25 other volunteers tarped roofs and cleared the yards of eight homes in the Springfield and Millville areas of Bay County while also engaging in more personal gestures. They witnessed a woman reunite with her lost cat, Feisty, and furnished her with food for her pet. Horsely paused to spend time with an elderly woman who was in her car seeking refuge from the sun.

“It was so overwhelming, I just had to remind myself that for those eight people, our effort was life-altering,” Horsley said.

“I know we’re not going to be able to go in and fix everything, but I think if we take it one step at a time, we have the ability to effect change.” ↑ A cat named Feisty and its owner, Horsley has been working to separated by Hurricane Michael, enjoyed an unexpected reunion. make a difference in the lives of

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others since since 2014, when she and her business partners, brothers Jeremy and Jason Sprenkle, and employees of YOLO Board and The 30A Company, formed a committee that makes contributions to deserving organizations.

“As things began to evolve, we only grew more passionate,” Horsley recounted. “We started writing books together, and we really wanted to ensure we were making an impact that strengthened communities, whether they were ones just outside our own, or on the other side of the world.”

As for the latter, the Sonder Project has focused efforts in Burkina Faso, one of the poorest countries in West Africa. Though initially focused on building schools, the Sonder Project soon realized that, without access to clean water or food, no one could focus on getting an education.

“We started a community farm initiative where we take 11 acres of land, install an irrigation system, drill wells and put major agricultural plots into villages,” Horsley explained.

“We have food available for consumption in the village, available for resale into the market and to provide nutrition for the schools. It’s a long-term, sustainable investment.”

Back at home, Sonder’s community garden projects combine with organizations such as Food for Thought to make fresh produce available to financially strapped families and improve their eating habits.

Given its history of supplying food, water and shelter, the

PHOTOS BY SHELLI ALLEN PHOTOGRAPHY (OGDEN AND FAMILY) AND COURTESY OF 360 BLUE

↑ Tish Ogden, her daughter and her boyfriend sought assistance from the Sonder Project after Hurricane Michael damaged the roof of their home and robbed them of plumbing and power.

Project volunteers restored the residence to liveability. ← Sonder Project volunteers including Brian Kelley, Ashley Hamm, Jeff Archer, Meghan Lyons and Scott McLeod convened to discuss their next project after tarping a roof and clearing a yard of debris at a Panama City residence.

Sonder Project was inundated with calls for help post-Michael. It helped that 360 Blue, a vacation rental company, has ready access to maintenance materials, trucks, trailers and all the required waivers.

“We immediately started asking the EOC (Emergency Operations Center), Bay County commissioners and first responders what they needed,” Horsley said. “And those needs have evolved, as they often do in emergencies such as these. We’ve been very fluid as far as our approach goes.”

At this writing, Sonder Project teams are traveling to Bay County Monday through Friday. Some days are devoted to distributing fuel and personal hygiene products. Others may involve serving thousands of hot meals from an impromptu soup kitchen. Country music star and Grayton Beach resident Brian Kelley of Florida Georgia Line has been an especially active volunteer.

Kelley, who operates a Santa Rosa Beach clothing store, the Tribe Kelley Surf Post, with his wife Brittney, also

initiated the “Sonder Challenge,” making a $5,000 contribution toward hurricane relief, and others to follow suit.

Many have. Businesses including Bontemps Interiors and The Henderson, as well as Jack’s Beer and Burger Joint in Birmingham, Alabama, were quick to pay their $5,000 forward. The Destin Charity Wine Auction Foundation (DCWAF) donated $21,447 to the cause. The names of good Samaritans, both familiar and inconspicuous, appear on the growing list of donors at TheSonderProject.org.

As of November, the Sonder Project had collected $365,000 toward a $500,000 goal. The hurricane was estimated to have resulted in $4.5 billion in property damage, but the half million will make a real difference to the people the Sonder Project reaches.

“I don’t think I’ve ever seen or experienced anything that has brought a community together quite like this,” Horsley stated. “A lot of good has come out of something so awful.”

In addition to dealing with the physical devastation, communities are mourning their lost sense of home and belonging.

Horsley said the Sonder Project made it a priority to try to establish some normalcy.

It sponsored a Halloween party in Millville’s Daffin Park, where children decorated pumpkins, enjoyed bouncy houses and danced the Monster Mash. Over 200 pies were donated by community bakeries and distributed door-to-door (and tent-to-tent) on Thanksgiving. And, in the spirit of an angel tree Christmas program, the Sonder Project adopted families victimized by the storm.

“My grandparents taught me to understand that everyone has a story,” Horsley shared. “That’s what sonder means — the realization that everybody is living a life as complicated as your own.

All the donations from the community, the work that volunteers have put in and the wishes of support we have received make me want to be a better person and find more ways to give back.”

So it is that Horsley and company will keep picking up starfish as best they know how. EC

Find more information on ways to get involved at TheSonderProject.org.

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JOSEPH A. PEDONE, MD, FACC, FACP, FSCAI, CDDR Interventional Cardiologist MICHAEL L. YANDEL, MD, FACC, FSCAI Interventional Cardiologist JUAN C. ZARATE, MD, FACC, FSCAI Interventional Cardiologist ANTHONY S. AL-DEHNEH, DO, FACC, FSCAI Interventional Cardiologist ANGEL D. MORROBEL, MD, FACC Invasive Cardiologist AJIT H. JANARDHAN, MD, PhD, FACC, FHRS Cardiac Electrophysiologist MARCELLO A. BORZATTA, MD, FACS, FSCAI Endovascular Surgeon

Best Cardiologist

Providing current, comprehensive health care in the diagnosis, prevention and treatment of heart problems, since 1991, Okaloosa Heart & Vascular Center offers a full range of integrated cardiac services, from patient education through inpatient care, including: Clinical Cardiology and Consultation, Echocardiography, Vascular Ultrasound, Exercise Testing, Holter and Event Monitoring, Nuclear Cardiac Imaging, Cardiac Catheterization, Coronary Angioplasty, Intra-Coronary Stenting, Endovascular Surgery, Limb Salvage and Cardiac Electrophysiology. With 4 interventional cardiologists, 1 endovascular surgeon, 1 cardiac electrophysiologist, 1 invasive cardiologist and 6 local offices to serve you, the staff is committed to exploring new technologies and techniques that provide better ways to care for their patients, and to treating each patient like a person rather than a diagnosis.

Destin Niceville 36468 Emerald Coast Parkway 552 Twin Cities Boulevard Suite 1101 Suite A Destin, FL 32541 Niceville, FL 32578 850-424-5638 850-279-4426

Niceville 2600 Partin Drive Suite 110 Niceville, FL 32578 850-279-4426

Fort Walton Beach Crestview Defuniak Springs 1032 Mar Walt Drive 129 Redstone Ave. 1045 US Highway 331 S. Suite 110 Suite A Defuniak Springs, FL 32435 Fort Walton Beach, FL 32547 Crestview, FL 32539 850-682-7212 850-862-1753 850-682-7212

www.OkaloosaHeart.com

86 February–March 2019 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM 86 February–March 2016 EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM

W SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

WOMEN’S PROFESSIONAL PROFILES

WOMEN AT WORK

In 1987, Congress declared March to be Women’s History Month. A month dedicated to commemorating, honoring and encouraging the study, observance and celebration of the vital role of women in American history. In this section, we honor female professionals and leaders that are contributing monumental impacts in our Emerald Coast area.

Through determination, altruism, leadership, creativity, passion and core values these women are making their own marks on history.

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WOMEN’S

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

PROFESSIONAL PROFILES

JLEC President, Katie Fuentes

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Throughout Okaloosa, Walton and Santa Rosa counties, 300 diverse women unite with big hearts, strong hands and souls for service. These women joined the Junior League of the Emerald Coast because they felt a calling to volunteer and enhance their communities. Each woman holds their own interests, beliefs and aspirations, but they have bonded through their dedication to service and philanthropy.

The unifying mission of JLEC is promoting volunteerism, developing the potential of women and improving communities through the effective action and leadership of trained volunteers.

“We live in a transient community surrounded by military bases and vacation destinations that allow variables in our membership” said Katie Fuentes, president of the JLEC. “We believe that although our membership will always change, our mission and programs are true to the needs in our community and will always remain the same.”

Through the JLEC, women gain valuable skills that empower them to best serve their communities. The members assist on boards, lead organizations and plan philanthropic events in a supportive environment that allows women to develop their skill sets. They are strong, like-minded women all striving to be the best versions of themselves so they can provide the best for their community.

The JLEC’s largest fundraising event each year is Best of the Emerald Coast, which takes place in October at Grand Boulevard. The JLEC partners with Emerald Coast Magazine at the event, and proceeds benefit the Child Clothing Project, which provides new clothing for over 400 children from Okaloosa and Walton County elementary schools. The Child Clothing Project has expanded into Child Clothing

February–March 2019 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

DAN GARNER PHOTOGRAPHY (FUENTES) AND OUT OF THE BLUE PHOTOGRAPHY (GROUP)

THE JUNIOR LEAGUE OF THE EMERALD COAST

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Closets; these closets are installed in Okaloosa and Walton County schools to provide new clothing to children in need.

Touch-A-Truck, Rock the Road 5K/10K and Down and Derby Fest are other yearly fundraising opportunities that the JLEC encourages Emerald Coast residents to attend. Through events, donations and volunteer efforts, the JLEC impacts organizations such as Food for Thought Outreach, Children in Crisis, Children’s Advocacy Center, Emerald Coast Science Center, Westonwood Ranch, Boys and Girls Club, Habitat for Humanity, Shelter House and more.

“While we live in paradise, there are so many families that go without the basic necessities,” said Fuentes. “Our members have the opportunity to learn endless ways to help these families in need. Servant leadership isn’t about being at the top, it’s about sharing the responsibility to provide a caring and proactive atmosphere within our organization to enrich the lives of those we serve.”

Community members can be involved with the JLEC by supporting events, volunteering, donating to their mission and joining the league if you’re a female over the age of 21.

“JLEC invests in their members to develop women who can lead in their diverse endeavors,” said Fuentes. “We want to ensure our members live a life of gratitude to create a vision for tomorrow.”

TOP RIGHT: JLEC board with founding members of the organization from 1965 Top Row: (from left to right) Kendall Andrews, Shirley McAfee, Sarah Bailey White, Marissa Rollins, Katie Fuentes, Bethany Worley, Jennifer Schlinger, Amanda Frey, Hilary Brown Bottom Row: Anne Moore, Sug Brown, B.J. Florence, Carolyn Crotzer, Annette Lee, Lynne Matthews MIDDLE RIGHT: JLEC helping children sign their names in a book they each receive at the annual Child Clothing Project at Target in Destin BOTTOM RIGHT: JLEC board representing their booth at the 2018 Best of the Emerald Coast (from left to right) Bethany Worley, Katie Fuentes, Jessica Atkinson, Sarah Bailey White, Kendall Andrews, Marissa Rollins, Shirley McAfee, Sabrina Bivins

JLEC (850) 460-8980 | JLEC.ORG EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

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WOMEN’S

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

PROFESSIONAL PROFILES

RENEE LAUNIERE BIJOUX DE MER FINE JEWELRY

RENEE DRENIN AND GUS

BIJOUX DE MER FINE JEWELRY CITY MARKET BAYSIDE, 4495 FURLING LANE, SUITE 170, DESTIN (850) 830-5465 | BIJOUXDEMER.COM

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PHOTOS BY NICK TOMECEK

The luminous sheen of a pearl or the iridescent glow of a gemstone are beautiful enough, but a creatively crafted piece of jewelry is truly exceptional. Renee Launiere, owner and designer of Bijoux De Mer, knows elegant, custom jewelry has transformative powers.

Looking at Launiere’s exquisite and expertly composed pieces, you would think she had studied the art of jewelry making her entire life.

While she always had a creative side and an entrepreneurial spirit, she found herself pursuing a business degree, working in sales marketing with a pharmaceutical company and climbing the corporate ladder. After 15 years, she became frustrated with the bureaucracy of working for a big company and sought to tap into her repressed creativity. She began taking jewelry fabrication and design classes as a hobby, which quickly turned into a passion and became a business. She left the corporate world behind, invested her savings into her own jewelry line and never looked back.

In 2006, Launiere launched Bijoux De Mer Fine Jewelry, which rapidly gained popularity in over 60 premier jewelry stores, on the pages of fashion magazines and in a Michael Kors runway show. Ten years later came her proudest moment — the opening of her flagship gallery.

“I am at my store 90 percent of the time just so I can meet my customers,” said Launiere. “When they find out that I am the designer, they are thrilled. This is what truly sets me apart; the ability to not just sell what I have in stock, but to custom create anything their heart desires.”

The meaning of Bijoux De Mer is “jewels of the sea,” the sea being a significant influence of her work. Launiere selects only the finest materials — sumptuous pearls, rare gemstones and precious metals resulting in pieces that are bold, elegant and always unique.

“For me, doing what I love is the most amazing feeling,” said Launiere.

“It’s an unbelievable high as an artist to meet people who love and want to collect my jewelry.”

WOMEN’S

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

PROFESSIONAL PROFILES

JEAN CREWS VP, MORTGAGE LOAN OFFICER, BB&T At the time, Jean Crews didn’t know that her first job at a bank would result in a successful and impressive career that enabled her to become No. 3 in a company of 550 mortgage loan officers. What she did know then, and claims has kept her in the business, is that she loves making others happy.

“There’s nothing better than making other people happy,” said Crews. “Sometimes that can be difficult when getting approved for a mortgage as it involves a lot of paperwork and requests, but when the end result is hearing the excitement in someone’s voice when they have purchased their dream home, that makes it all worth it.”

Honesty is her policy, and she exercises it from the start to be clear and concise about the

mortgage process. She firmly believes in caring for her clients by being timely in her responses and always on hand to handle their needs.

Crews has an unwavering passion for her career, which is evident in her status and commitment to customers, but she counts her proudest achievements to be her daughters and her 18 happy years of marriage. While she doesn’t have much free time, she spends most of it cheering on Auburn and her alma mater, Florida State, boating and traveling — something she promises to do more of.

“The joy and happiness of my clients has kept me going and truly loving this profession that can often be challenging,” said Crews. “There’s nothing like the joy of a new home and knowing I shared a part of helping it happen.”

BB&T (850) 865-5326 | BBT.COM/JJCREWS

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FEB/MAR 2019

TRENDS FROM FLOOR TO CEILING, FRONT TO BACK

←

Freshen bathrooms by replacing traditional fixtures and elements with contemporary alternatives featuring minimalist designs. The Lineare tub filler, pictured here, provides one example.

PHOTO COURTESY OF AMERICAN STANDARD

INTERIORS

THE NECESSARY ROOM Bathroom remodels range from comfortably affordable to deluxe

by ELIZABETH B. GOLDSMITH

EXTERIORS

Water-saving Strategies

|| GARDENING

How to Select and Plant Fruit Trees

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abodes

Modulus collection includes an oak veneer vanity with concrete lavatory and a one-piece toilet with one-piece tank.

B

athroom remodeling is high on the list of many homeowners’ to-do lists. Such projects may be designed to make properties more attractive for resale or more appealing to renters.

Or people may redo bathrooms as part of making their homes more current.

“If it’s for flippers or for rentals, sometimes in-stock vanities for $150 or $200 will give the desired refresh, but longtime owners may spend $500 or more on custom vanities,” said Debbie Poole, a designer for 14 years at the Panama City Beach Home Depot. “Occasionally we have a request for a traditional bathroom with cherry wood cabinets, but most people want painted gray or white cabinets and quartz counters to go with them.”

Other designers confirm that the grayand-white color scheme is popular on the Emerald Coast.

Poole added, “We sell a ton of white or gray luxury vinyl floors that float over existing floors so there is no tearing up to do. The floors are scratch-proof and waterproof. An in-demand brand of cabinetry is American Woodmark and,

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for countertops, Silestone and Viatera.

Sinks, toilets and shower/baths are often American Standard.”

Total remodeling of an existing 40-square-foot bathroom will take about three weeks and would include flooring, walls, fixtures, mirrors, tile and lights.

Knocking out walls to make the room bigger and re-arranging plumbing takes more time.

Luxury Bathrooms Here are some tricks and tips that will lead you to the bathroom of your dreams. Master bathrooms are full of indulgences while offering efficiency (i.e., two sinks) at the same time.

Most homeowners now ask for supersized showers. Frameless glass shower doors add a luxurious look and are easily cleaned.

An elongated shower has no door. Only half of it is glassed in and the remainder is open to the bathroom. Multiple showerheads or a steam feature (that does require a door that seals tightly on all sides) are popular upgrades. Maybe you prefer a whirlpool

February–March 2019 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

Quick Changes You’ve probably seen advertisements for one-day installations of custom manufactured and professionally installed showers, tubs or both. These are called replacement tubs and showers and vary in quality and price. Installation speed is certainly attractive, and in-home design consultations are free from multiple companies.

Small Bathrooms Make a tiny bathroom look larger by indulging in updated fixtures, storage niches and colorful accents. A striped area rug will add apparent length. Contrary to logic, large tile squares with fewer grout lines will make a small space seem bigger.

Pedestal sinks take up less floor space than chunky vanity cabinets.

Lighting Enhancements Skylights, windows, chandeliers and soft, flattering lights on the sides of vanities are among the possibilities. The right lighting helps with all types of grooming and gives the room a lift.

The bathroom is an important part of the house. Create a space that truly reflects the beauty of your life. EC

PHOTO COURTESY OF AMERICAN STANDARD

↑ Modernizing bathrooms often means opting for cleaner lines and sleeker looks. The DXV

or deep-soaking tub. Make sure it is roomy enough and doesn’t strain your back.

Whether tub or shower, install slipresistant flooring for stability and freedom from falls. Add grab bars and easy-toreach controls. A bench seat is a matter of personal preference. An inset or shelf for holding shampoo and soap is a must.

Floating vanities make a room feel airy by adding open space between the floor and the vanity — a perfect place to put slippers or attractive containers with supplies. The vanity can be outfitted with drawers, cabinets and cubbyholes.

A cushioned chair, ottoman or bench below a window provides a handy place to sit or to throw a bath towel or robe.

Walls can be painted or feature specially designed bathroom wallpaper such as a soothing spa-like, gray-blue grid pattern.

Consider glass mosaic or tile walls. In a large master bath, combine several of these for a unique look. Keep patterned treatments to a minimum to create the impression of more space.

Oriental Rugs • Natural Fiber Rugs Custom Rugs • Stair Runners Cowhides • Sheepskins The Crossings at Inlet Beach 13123 E. Emerald Coast Parkway, Inlet Beach 850.230.4425

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SPONSORED REPORT PROMOTION

ARCHITECTURAL & DESIGN ELEMENTS Your home is your happiness, your comfort, your solace. When assisting you with your residential renovation needs, Michael Weaver and Mike Glass, the owners of Architectural & Design Elements, aspire to make you feel right at home.

Their secret to success is simple — they listen. By listening intently and asking the right questions, they are able to meet each client’s vision or help them see it more clearly by educating them on the products that would best complement their home.

Education is another key to unlocking a flawless home project. With Weaver’s 28 years in the flooring industry and Glass’ 30 years in construction, they have a wealth of industry knowledge, which they delight in sharing with clients.

“We focus on quality and customer education,” said Weaver. “When a client comes to us with a project, we our do our research and come back with the best and most suitable products for their home or lifestyle. Many places sell you on aesthetics or price, but we would rather educate you on all of the available options.”

Architectural & Design Element’s Santa Rosa Beach showroom and warehouse allows clients and designers to immerse themselves in the exclusive brands, 90 percent of which you won’t find anywhere else in Northwest Florida. They take pride in their exclusivity

and quality control ensured by refined brands — including Stanton high-end carpeting, Modomo Italian porcelain tile and Kahrs wood flooring. While they can custom engineer many products, their primary goal is to work with and through the design community.

Flooring and walls are their specialty, ranging from bathrooms and bedrooms to kitchens and outdoor spaces. Clients often call with one project in mind then become repeat customers when the next home remodel arises.

“I enjoy residential projects the most because they are personal,” said Weaver. “I especially enjoy clients who plan to live in their homes for a long time. They tend to seek quality over price because they are investing in a lasting future, something they will enjoy for years to come.”

Weaver and Glass opened Architectural & Design Elements in 2016 and have enlisted the same staff and contractors ever since. Those who begin your home project will remain the same until completion, establishing trust and reliability.

“Our biggest goal is client comfort,” said Weaver.

“We strive for relationships of trust and understanding of the products and services we provide. We want them to be happy. We want them to be at home in their home.”

adesrb.com | (850) 622-0246 | 181 Lynn Drive, Suite A, Santa Rosa Beach

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Stones, of course, range from pebbles to statement pieces that are about big enough to climb. An all-rock front ↙ Stones, pavers and yard may be too stark. gravel all may be used A combination of as hardscape features that a gravel semiadd attractive accents to yards while directing foot circular driveway traffic and diminishing and plants is easy the area requiring on the eyes. In the watering. backyard, add raised beds, a patio or other hardscape.

When removing grass, reshape flowerbeds. They do well with drip or micro-irrigation.

As you create a new ecosystem, determine the amount of shade you find desirable. Work to ensure that the elements of your plan work together and with the design of your house.

Azaleas are thirsty, whereas daylilies and lantanas use less water. Investing in new plants and new ways of watering them involves some interesting considerations. Start by consulting nurseries and landscapers.

EXTERIORS

WATER-SAVING STRATEGIES

Is it time to make your yard less thirsty?

by ELIZABETH B. GOLDSMITH

S

pring is when most homeowners update their yards, and many are experimenting with alternatives to turf.

“Asiatic jasmine is a ground cover that does well here. It comes in green or variegated with white streaks in the leaves,” said Dan Herrera of Lowe’s in Destin. “Another choice is ivy. Stones help a lot, and mulch will deter weeds and hold in moisture.”

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Weather Sensors Reduce Water Loss Innovative systems with internet-connected weather sensors are used on farms and in new construction. They may be worth adding as part of your landscape makeover. Properly functioning rain sensors shut off the sprinklers when the ground is saturated and can help lower your water bill.

in water guzzling, so a reduction in turf area can make a significant difference. Visit local nurseries, talk with them about plants and designs, turf and perennial beds, views, slopes, the need for screening from neighbors or roadways, use of soil amendments, and gravel and walkways. Daylilies, mentioned earlier, are examples of waterconserving, drought-tolerant plants. Replace broken rotary spray nozzles or gear-driven rotors. Inefficient mechanisms — or ones trained on the street — are a waste of money.

Time of Day The worst time to water is in the heat of midday. This encourages water loss through evaporation. Increase mulch around bushes, trees and plants to help trap water in the ground. Strive to water deeply and establish good root systems.

Is it time this spring to rethink your sweep of green lawn? Might a smaller patch be just as attractive and require less water and upkeep? That could make things easier for you … and better for the planet. EC

Xeriscaping Xeriscaping refers to landscaping and gardening that reduces or eliminates the need for extra watering. Start by examining your existing property for areas that consume the most water. Lawns are often No. 1

↑ Homeowners may achieve water savings by devoting areas in their yards to drought-resistant plants such as daylilies, pictured here.

PHOTOS BY ULGA (DAYLILIES) AND HORTONGROUP1 (BACK YARD LANDSCAPING AND PATIO) / ISTOCK / GETTY IMAGES PLUS

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PROMOTION

Homeward Bound The process of building a house involves nails, hammers, wood, saws and a variety of other materials, but that house isn’t a home until its owners see it. Chris Taylor, the owner of CM Taylor Contracting, says he will never tire from the excitement of watching people react during the first viewing of their new home’s frame.

In 2009, following the housing recession, Taylor took a leap of faith and opened his company, figuring the market could only go up from there. Today, he offers a full range of services, including designing and building custom homes, remodels, additions and commercial build outs. Taylor’s passion for homes began at a young age, when he assisted his stepfather, a builder, with various tasks on job sites. After high school, he briefly moved away from the Emerald Coast, but he made his way back because he wanted to raise his family here and be a part of building this community.

With a lifetime of experience, Taylor knows how important each decision in the building

process is, therefore he strives to make it as stress-free and enjoyable as possible.

With custom homes being his specialty, the opportunities to engage with clients during the building process fuels his drive.

“I love to work closely with clients and get in their heads to bring their visions to life,” said Taylor. “We pay attention to every little detail because we care that your home is what you envisioned.”

Many of his client’s visions currently include open floor plans, craftsman style, light colors, dark wood features, stained wood accents and outdoor living spaces. While trends come and go, each home has a certain something special that sets them apart — not only to the owner but also to the contractors as well.

“Every day is unpredictable, exciting and rewarding,” said Taylor. “I visit job sites, make influential decisions and meet many great people. Because of that, the projects become personal, and I build each home as if it were my own.”

CM TAYLOR CONTRACTING 85 Garnet Place | Destin | (850) 830-3305 | cmtaylorcontracting.com

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PHOTOS COURTESY OF CM TAYLOR CONTRACTING

CM Taylor Contracting: From Concept to Custom Build

“My goal is to create beautiful, luxurious jewelry that will encourage a woman’s sense of individuality and embrace self expression.”

Renee Launiere, Owner / Designer

DESTIN VIP DESTIN MAGAZINE READER CHOICE AWARD

2018

Located at City Market Bayside on Highway 98 • 4495 Furling Lane, Suite 170 • Destin, FL 32541 850.830.5465 • Store Hours: Tues - Sat 11 am - 6 pm • BijouxDeMer.com EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

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abodes Your Monthly Garden Chores

GARDENING

HOW TO SELECT AND PLANT FRUIT TREES

FEBRUARY

➸ Prune your roses. An easy way to remember is to think about Valentine’s Day and its connection to roses.

BY AUDREY POST, MS. GROW-IT-ALL®

JANUARY AND FEBRUARY ARE THE BEST MONTHS FOR PLANTING MOST TREES, and it’s the ideal time

to start a food forest in your yard. What’s a food forest? It’s a mix of trees and shrubs that produce edible fruit and nuts. Of course, the first rule of edible gardening is to plant what you like to eat. The second rule is work smart, not hard: It’s easier on you and the trees to plant in cooler months.

1 Deciduous fruit trees, meaning those that lose their leaves in winter, should be planted now. They include figs,

persimmons, chestnuts, pecans, apples, pears, peaches and plums. It’s also a good time to plant blueberries. Make sure you select varieties that do well in our area. Local nurseries and your county extension office can guide you on the best varieties.

➸ Set out tomato plants in late February, but be prepared to protect them from frost or freeze. We usually have plenty of mild days in February, and planting early gives tomatoes a head start — before insects have hatched. ➸ Plant potatoes and peas this month, giving the peas a lattice or trellis — give them something to hold onto as they grow.

3 Build a berm of soil about two feet out from

➸ Get your soil tested. Kits are available at your county UF/IFAS Extension Office, with complete instructions. Don’t waste money or time on fertilizers and soil amendments that you might not need. Test both your garden soil and your lawn soil separately.

Amend your garden soil as the test indicates, but wait on the lawn until April.

4 Wait until mid-April to plant citrus trees, or else

➸ Plant bulbs, tubers and corms such as irises, lilies, gladiolas, agapanthus and ornamental gingers.

deeper than it was in its pot, and loosen the root ball if it has become wound around itself.

the trunk all the way around to create a basin so the water will drain into the root zone. Keep the soil uniformly moist but not soggy. An inch of water every other day for several weeks should help it get established, but watch the weather. If it turns hot early, you’ll need to water more.

be prepared to baby and protect them until all danger of frost has passed. Even citrus labeled “cold hardy” must be protected for the first two years to get established.

Insects and other critters, good and bad: Clover mites

Clover mites, Bryobia praetiosa Koch, are tiny insects that just love lush vegetation, particularly if it’s close to the house.

They cause small silver streaks on foliage and grass blades, and sometimes flowers, when they feed. In large numbers, they can injure the lawn to the point it looks like winter kill. They usually show up in spring and fall, because CLOVER MITES they don’t like weather extremes. Leaving an unplanted strip about the foundation of buildings can discourage them from taking up residence. Giving extra water to areas around foundations, especially if the wall faces the sun, can reduce populations. Planting marigolds, roses, chrysanthemums and zinnias can discourage them, too. They move indoors when it gets too hot or too cold, or too wet. When they move inside, they’re more annoying than dangerous, leaving a red smear when crushed against a wall, door or floor. Don’t confuse them with their beneficial predator cousin, Balaustium spp., which has been found to be an effective way to control insect pests.

➸ Check for insect pests on tender new growth on shrubs and perennials. Be sure to check the underside of the leaf. Use insecticidal soap as needed.



PESKY PESTS

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©2015-2019 PostScript Publishing LLC, all rights reserved. Audrey Post is a certified Advanced Master Gardener volunteer with the University of Florida/ IFAS Extension in Leon County. Email her at Questions@MsGrowItAll. com or visit her website at msgrowitall.com.

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

ILLUSTRATION BY NADZEYA DZIVAKOVA (FRUIT TREES), STEVE NELLINGSON (CLOVER MITE), TSEKHMISTER (ROSES) AND NASTCO (SOIL) ISTOCK / GETTYIMAGES PLUS

MARCH

2 Make sure you plant the tree no

2019 is the year to make the coast Home

Spectacular views greet you when you walk in the front door of Dunescape. This St. George Island gulf-front home on one acre takes advantage of the views with a large great room with vaulted ceiling. Two bedrooms are on each side of the great room area with a convenient bath in between. $899,900.

2.49 acres with 107 feet of frontage on Scipio Creek offering easy access to the Apalachicola Bay. Beautiful wooded lot with mature trees, and a gentle slope to Scipio Creek. Conveniently located just minutes to downtown Apalachicola, yet on a secluded tree lined road. $169,000.

A sweet St. George Island interior home with 2 bedrooms and 2 baths, large open and sunny great room with decks front and back and a peak at the bay from both decks. Home was remodeled in 2016 and is on pilings. It is steps to the bay and 3 blocks to the beach. $320,000.

River front lots above beautiful Carrabelle. Minimum covenants, permanent views of Tate’s Hell Forest, and abundant wildlife.

Nature lovers dream. Prices range from $45,000 to $499,000 – 2+ acres to over 11 acres.

Apalachicola Bay Realty

Catherine Kortfanty

Barbara Morris

850-510-8009

Licensed Real Estate Broker

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Apalachicolabayrealty.com

850-510-8009

813-514-7937

@ApalachicolaBayRealty

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PROMOTION

DEAL ESTATE

JUST LISTED

Discover Modern Luxury on the Gulf Thirty One on 30A is the ultimate destination for owners who seek the pinnacle in architecture, design, comfort and foremost beachfront living. Located in Seagrove, the 3.92-acre property boasts over 335 feet of white-sand beach frontage. Enter this third-floor residence via your own private elevator, which transports you directly to your foyer.

LISTED PRICE: $3,125,000 ADDRESS: 3820 E. County Hwy. 30A, No. 306 SQUARE FOOTAGE: 3,304 BEDROOMS: 3 BATHROOMS: 3.5 FEATURES: Includes an incredible open floor plan with breathtaking and abundant Gulf views from all locations of this beautifully appointed residence. This home boasts a private balcony and provides a quiet peace one desires in a residence of this quality.

A bonus room located off the dining room can be used as an office or an additional bedroom.

Amenities include secure underground parking, a resortstyle pool and expansive pool deck, private storage areas and golf carts provided for use for homeowners, a luxuriously appointed lobby, fitness room, kitchen and club room.

APPEAL: Gulf-front living in Seagrove Beach CONTACT INFORMATION: Karen Holder, Broker/Owner, Accredited Luxury Home Specialist, Homes On 30A (850) 687-1064, Karen@HomesOn30A.com

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PHOTOS BY KAREN HOLDER (KITCHEN) AND COURTESY OF PREMIER PROPERTY GROUP

YEAR BUILT: 2018

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200 Kelly Road, Niceville (407) 497-1366 crestridgeroofing.com EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

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This is where you live, learn and play!

Northwest Florida State College now offers degrees in Culinary Management and Hospitality & Tourism Management where you can train with a nationally recognized college, in a globally recognized resort area, with a leading culinary scene and hospitality industry.

This is where you design your future.

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State College

100 COLLEGE BOULEVARD EAST | NICEVILLE, FL 32578 | (850) 678 - 5111 | WWW.NWFSC.EDU Northwest Florida State College is committed to equal access/equal opportunity in its programs, activities, and employment. For additional information, visit www.nwfsc.edu.

Materiales de la Universidad son disponibles en EspaĂąola llamando a la Oficina de Admisiones de Northwest Florida State College al 850-678-5111.

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SP O NSO R E D R E P O RT

S T O R I E S from the

HEART

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

PR E SENTE D BY

FEBRUA RY/ M A RCH 2 01 9

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Sandy Sansing with his son-in-law, Frank White; son, David Sansing; and five grandchildren.

“The legacy I hope to leave in the community is a hard-working guy who appreciates what he has and was generous in helping others.”

— SANDY SANSING

SANDY SANSING

A Legac y Fueled by Work , Achievement and Faith

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Sandy Sansing’s life has been defined by hard work, substantial achievement and a strong Christian faith that inspires him to be a good steward of all God has given him and his family. “We know that God has blessed us unbelievably well,” he says, “and in so doing, it gives me and my kids both the desire and obligation to help others.”

Growing up in Pensacola, Sandy’s youth was a mix of baseball and golf.

But he also learned the value of work and saving money. During his senior year of high school and first year of junior college he earned tips as a bag boy at Jitney Jungle grocery story. “I would work on Saturdays,” he says, “while my buddies were playing golf or beaching it. I would make $15 to $20. Then on Monday, I would race down to Mutual Federal Savings and Loan where I had an account and deposit my money.”

He received golf scholarships to Pensacola Junior College and then to the University of West Florida, but this did not stop him from continuing to work hard during college as he sold Fuller brushes and worked for a home builder construction company. He graduated with honors and a degree in accounting, which gave him a solid footing for the many business ventures yet to come

SPONSORED REPORT

A MESSAGE FROM CAROL CARLAN

Carol Carlan President, Sacred Heart Foundation

The next chapter of Sandy’s life began with a job at a national CPA firm, where he admits he was “totally miserable.” After a year, he left that position and went to work for the Burroughs Corporation, selling office machinery and computers. His first sales territory was Mobile, Alabama.

He remembers, “It was July and you had to wear a coat and tie, a long sleeve shirt, and I had a 29-pound adding machine under my arm. I went cold-calling door-to-door in downtown Mobile until I sold $10,000 worth of machines.”

But he persevered and became Burroughs’ youngest sales manager in the Southeast at 25 years old. Then he met a fellow employee who told him that in other parts of the country, independent people were getting into the computer business. You could buy the hardware for a computer from a company in Boston, and then put your own programs and software with it and sell that product. Sandy had saved $2,500 working as a bagboy. So, using that, he and the fellow employee started their own computer sales company.

His early appointment was with the manager at the Mobile Teachers’ Credit Union, to whom he sold a computer system. She inquired where his office was located, who his CPA firm was, and then asked to see his business card. He adroitly sidestepped each request. Finally she said, “Sandy, you don’t have anything.” He replied, “Helen, we don’t have a thing. Our

As we begin 2019, I look forward to celebrating our many blessings. We celebrate the many donors, volunteers and advocates for our mission that enable us to continue providing the best care throughout the region.

Also, with your help, we are quickly approaching a once-in-a-lifetime celebration — the opening of the Studer Family Children’s Hospital and the 50th anniversary of serving children and families along the Gulf Coast.

Our new 151,000-square-foot facility will completely transform pediatric care across 19 counties. All of us at the Foundation and the Studer Family Children’s Hospital are proud of this hospital, all of it made possible through the generosity of the individuals, corporations and foundations throughout our communities.

In this issue of “Stories from the Heart,” you will read stories about a few of these generous individuals and organizations within our communities. First, there’s Sandy Sansing, whose generosity has helped thousands of children. Get to know board members like Ric and Alan Nickelsen, Cindi Bonner and Autumn Beck Blackledge, whose servant leadership is guiding Sacred Heart Health System into the future. Recognize organizations like IMPACT 100 Pensacola Bay Area, which believed in the mission of the Studer Family Children’s Hospital by awarding a grant to purchase four new facility dogs.

Through the generosity of our donors and volunteers, we have impacted the lives of millions throughout our region during our past 103 years — and we are grateful for you.

whole future rests with you,” and she just smiled.

“How much is it?” she asked. He answered, “It is $40,000, but we take a 20 percent deposit from all our customers.” She said, “You don’t have any customers.” He said, “You’re right, but you’re the first one.” And he left with a check for $8,000.

Unfortunately, a year later, the business still hadn’t taken off. They owed money, had no happy customers and the situation was dire.

Sandy sought advice from his daddy, who encouraged him to, “Stay with it.”

So he did, but his accounting background influenced him to change course and concentrate on selling to CPA firms. He traveled extensively for several years, which paid off, and the business became highly successful. It did so well that he sold it at the age of 32, making enough money to retire.

Then after a few years of pondering his future, he says, “I think God opened the door to the car business.” He bought his first dealership in 1986 and never looked back.

Today, Sandy owns 10 dealerships.

He admits, however, that acquiring the BMW dealership was a real challenge. People thought that it was a stroke of luck to get BMW, but Sandy knows otherwise. “It was persistence and determination. Nothing comes easy.” It took him three relentless years of writing letters, making phone calls, traveling to Atlanta, going to car meetings and so on. “I just wore them out.”

He and his wife of 42 years (whom he met on

a blind date arranged by his father) have two children: Stephanie, an attorney who works with adoptions, and David, vice president of Sandy Sansing Automotive Group. “Faith is the bedrock of our lives. There is a verse in the Bible, Luke 12:48, that says to those whom much is given, much will be demanded. Both my kids — I am very proud of them — are very generous and committed to helping others with money, with time and being mentors.”

Sandy has served as a major contributor to Sacred Heart’s new Children’s Hospital and encourages others to support it. “We all need to do our part,” he says. He has a special love and affinity for Sacred Heart, where his children and grandchildren were born. “I think it is crucial to treat people the way Jesus would treat them. Sacred Heart lives that.”

His travels have taken him to Guatemala and Uganda to help impoverished communities.

He funded a program in Uganda to set up a training center where young teens that escaped their kidnappers are trained in cosmetology, sewing and welding. They not only regain their self-esteem, but also have a way to make a living.

Most of everything we give,” Sandy says, “is based upon kids and/or Christian ministries.

“Life has been wonderful. I say I am not in the fourth quarter but the 2-minute drill, I think, right now. The legacy I hope to leave in the community is a hard-working guy who appreciates what he has and was generous in helping others.”

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CINDI BONNER

Sacred Hear t Hospital Pensacola Advisor y Council Member Receives National Award for Childhood Cancer Research

C “From visiting families during their hospital stays to achieving spectacular fundraising initiatives for childhood cancer research, her leadership knows no bounds. We are blessed to have her on our team.”

— HENRY STOVALL, president and chief executive officer, Sacred Heart Health System

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Cindi Bear Bonner of the Sacred Heart Hospital Pensacola advisory council was presented with the Rally for Research Award from the Rally Foundation for Childhood Cancer Research in Atlanta. This award recognizes Bonner’s significant impact volunteering as the director of Rally Pensacola.

“Cindi has been a true partner for Sacred Heart and a tireless advocate for the children and families we serve,” said Henry Stovall, president and chief executive officer, Sacred Heart Health System. “From visiting families during their hospital stays to achieving spectacular fundraising initiatives for childhood cancer research, her leadership knows no bounds. We are blessed to have her on our team.”

After watching her neighbor’s child battle cancer, Bonner founded Rally Pensacola, which in its first year raised about $140,000 towards childhood cancer research. Since then, Bonner has also established a family-emergency fund, so that half of all money raised by Rally Pensacola stays within the community to support local families with children battling cancer.

In addition to hosting an annual candlelight vigil for childhood cancer patients, Bonner has rallied at the U.S. Capitol, spoken before a congressional summit on childhood cancer and even run a half marathon pushing an IV pole.

Bonner received the Rally for Research Award at the Delta Double Play Benefit Bash gala on Nov. 9 at the Georgia Aquarium in Atlanta. Honorary event chairs for this year’s gala were Houston Astros catcher and 2017 World Series champion Brian McCann and his wife, Ashley.

“We are so proud to present this award to Cindi. She has made a huge impact in the lives of children and families affected by childhood cancer in Pensacola, and we are honored to have her leading the efforts in and around the community,” said Dean Crowe, Rally founder and CEO. “She is an amazing partner in the fight against childhood cancer.”

SPONSORED REPORT

RIC AND ALAN NICKELSEN

Giving For ward to the Communit y

R Top: Ric and Alan Nickelsen with their father, Eric. Middle: Ric Nickelsen awaiting son’s birth at Sacred Heart Pensacola with dad, Eric. Bottom: Ric’s son, Ashton, in the NICU at The Studer Family Children’s Hospital.

Ric and Alan Nickelsen share an exceptional life heritage as seventh generation Pensacola natives: They are brothers, both are bankers and each is an ardent supporter of Sacred Heart Health System.

They attended Birmingham Southern College in Alabama and then went into the field of banking upon graduation. Currently, Ric is vice president commercial lender with Smart Bank, and Alan is executive vice president commercial banking manager with Synovus Bank.

Their personal ties to Sacred Heart go way back. Their father, Eric, served as the first lay chair for Sacred Heart Hospital Board; their mother spent much time under treatment for cancer at the hospital; and Alan’s two sons were born at Sacred Heart.

But it was Ric’s experiences that were particularly significant for him: His sons, who were born prematurely 18 and 15 years ago respectively, spent many days in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) at The Children’s Hospital. At that time, all bassinets were side by side in a room that was a totally sterile and isolated environment. Sometimes Ric was able to hold his newborn but mostly could only stare through the window into the bassinet.

He says the family environment in the new Children’s Hospital NICU will be “highly ideal,” with each premature infant cared for in a private room available to the family. He serves on the Sacred Heart Foundation Board and has been committed to helping raise funds for that new hospital. “The amount of volunteer time and hard work and dedication that goes on behind the scenes to make this Children’s Hospital happen is amazing.”

As bankers, both Ric and Alan see its economic benefits. Ric says, “It will be a magnet for patients from surrounding areas, and from that perspective will be an economic boon for this area — new jobs, new kids in the school system, new docs recruited.”

Alan, who serves on the Sacred Heart Hospital board, adds, “There will a trickledown economic impact. When people want to move, the first thing they look for is healthcare. They want to know that their kids will be taken care of. Having the top Children’s Hospital in the region will attract them.

“When people ask me what I am involved in, I am proud to say, ‘Sacred Heart.’

It is more than a hospital — it is an extended family.”

Their own parents always stressed the need to continue “giving forward” to the community, advice Ric and Alan have taken to heart as they create their own faithbased legacy of contributing to the future of Sacred Heart.

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IMPACT 100 PENSACOLA BAY AREA Making “Ruf f ” Days a Little Brighter for Hospitalized Children

O

Our hearts are full, and our tails are wagging!

More sick and injured children will soon have the comfort of a furry friend during visits to The Studer Family Children’s Hospital at Sacred Heart, thanks to a $100,300 grant from IMPACT 100 Pensacola Bay Area, Inc. Following the success of the Children’s Hospital’s first facility dog — a two-year-old female golden retriever named Sprout — who arrived in November 2017, Sacred Heart was selected as one of this year’s IMPACT 100 recipients for its plan to add four new facility dogs to the Children’s Hospital.

Sprout came to the Children’s Hospital from Canine Assistants, a nonprofit organization based in Milton, Georgia, that trains and provides service dogs for children and adults with physical disabilities or other special needs. The Children’s Hospital plans to work with Canine Assistants again in obtaining the next four facility dogs. Each facility dog will be accompanied by a handler who will receive specialized training through Canine Assistants.

“Research has shown that dogs can reduce stress and help patients feel better both emotionally and physically,” said Julia Humphries, child life specialist and Sprout’s primary handler. “One study has even shown that 15 minutes of working with a dog reduces a child’s pain at a level comparable to an adult taking a dose of acetaminophen. In the past year, I’ve witnessed how Sprout’s presence might encourage a child to go for a walk, socialize with others or participate in therapies.

Many of our patients have pets at home, so

“Research has shown that dogs can reduce stress and help patients feel better both emotionally and physically.”

snuggling and petting — JULIA HUMPHRIES, child life specialist Sprout can help make a trip and Sprout’s primary handler to the Children’s Hospital far more comfortable.”

Sprout currently serves patients and families in the rehabilitation office, inpatient units, radiology Pediatric Infusion Center, in the outpatient and diagnostic departments, as well as the pediatric hematology/oncology office and on medical-observation unit, which will open the inpatient floors of the Children’s Hospital. with the new four-story children’s hospital in The four new facility dogs will serve the spring 2019.

Children’s Hospital’s Autism Center, pediatric

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AUTUMN BECK BLACKLEDGE Gif ted and Giving

B “Even if it was just a dollar to put in the offering plate … you gave.”

— AUTUMN BECK BLACKEDGE

Born and raised in Pensacola, Autumn Beck Blackledge comes by her achievements and her commitment to the Sacred Heart Foundation by way of her upbringing. “I won the lottery on parents,” she says. “They were loving and just remarkable in everything they did for me and my brother Justin. And they taught that us that you give your talents, you give your time, you give your treasure.”

She believes that she is blessed to give her talents to the practice of family law, which she describes as a “calling.” She helps people navigate “hard, sad, life-changing events.”

Growing up, she and Justin watched their mother give much of her time volunteering. Their father, who started Beck Properties (now Beck Partners) the year Justin was born, taught them to give of their “treasure. Even if it was just a dollar to put in the offering plate … you gave,” Autumn says.

She and her husband Peyton (a professional firefighter) have five children between them. At one point in the near future, they will have a child in every grade at Catholic High School.

She has had to cut back on her community service but stays faithful to her position on the Sacred Heart Foundation Board. She explains, “Number one, it is a well-run board. It’s efficient. They do what they say they are going to do with the dollars. They follow through and are excellent stewards. And they have an important mission that our community needs.”

She emphasizes what the new Children’s Hospital means to the this area: Besides being an important draw for Pensacola’s growth by way of new jobs, parents can rest easy knowing they have the region’s premier source of healthcare for their children. And its cutting edge technology cancels the need to travel out of the region for specialty care.

An example of the state-of-the-art medical technology that will make a huge difference for infants and children is what Autumn calls “The High Speed CT Scanner.” A project of the foundation’s fund raising, it will take an image in 2 seconds!

As a board member, Autumn works to attract the donations essential for the new Children’s Hospital to open its doors. Much credit is due to wellknown, major donors. Yet there is still a huge necessity for contributions.

“I think the community doesn’t realize that every penny we are asking for will go to support our mission, to save children’s lives or make them better,” she says. “The need is so great in our area. It is amazing the amount of effort that the board goes to in raising and stewarding dollars for the kids.”

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JOIN US for the opening of the Studer Family Children’s Hospital in Spring 2019.

SACRED HEART FOUNDATION RECOGNIZED AGAIN FOR EXCELLENCE IN PHILANTHROPY FOR THE SECOND YEAR IN A ROW, the Association for Healthcare Philanthropy (AHP) has

named Sacred Heart Foundation a “High Performer.” The foundation is one of only 54 recognized as a “High Performer” based on analysis of a survey AHP conducted related to fiscal year (FY) 2017 for having shown high efficiency and effectiveness as they relate to bottom-line returns.

“It is such an honor to receive this recognition once again,” said Carol Carlan, president of Sacred Heart Foundation. “At Sacred Heart, we are privileged to be in a position to continue the legacy of care to the sick with special attention to the poor and vulnerable that the Daughters of Charity entrusted to us. This honor would not be possible without the support and generosity from our communities across the region. With their support, we are able to provide life-saving and state-of-the-art equipment and facilities and innovative programs. This enables us to continue healthcare that works, healthcare that is safe and healthcare that leaves no one behind. And, for that, we are grateful.”

ABOUT THE SACRED HEART FOUNDATION

Sandy Sansing with his son-in-law, Frank White; son, David Sansing; and five grandchildren.

Since 1915, Sacred Heart Health System has been at the heart of healing for Northwest Florida and South Alabama. Like our founders, the Daughters of Charity, Sacred Heart is dedicated to providing quality, compassionate healthcare to the citizens of our regions, regardless of their ability to pay. This steadfast commitment to our community could not have been achieved without the support and generosity of the thousands of individuals, businesses and organizations that have donated to Sacred Heart Foundation.

Through this charitable giving, Sacred Heart Foundation has been able to provide millions of dollars of free and low-cost healthcare to the poor, uninsured, under-insured and low-income families. With the help of generous donors, we are proud to partner in Sacred Heart’s mission of care along the Gulf Coast.

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Come and go full STEAM ahead into Gulfarium fun with Nature Cat and Peg + Cat! 10am–2pm • Saturday, March 2 Meet and greet!

Create art and crafts!

Explore the park!

Meet Clifford, too!

Ticket Information: Gulfarium.com A portion of park admission fees will be donated to the WSRE-TV Foundation. Thank you!

Thank you media partners: 46789-1218 WSRE EC Mag Feb-Mar Gulfarium.indd 1

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SAVE THE DATE

FEB/MAR 2019 For more events in the EC, visit EmeraldCoastMagazine.com and 850tix.com.

APRIL 25–28

South Walton Wine & Food Festival

A dazzling roster of celebrity winemakers, distillers, chefs, brewmasters and entertainers converges on South Walton to wine, dine, educate and entertain guests throughout a four-day celebration. With 800-plus wines and winemakers from around the world, the festival offers the best in wine … and food.

Visit sowalwine.com for ticket information and more.

PHOTOS BY NIKI HEDRICK COURTESY OF EMERALD COAST THEATRE COMPANY, SOUTH WALTON BEACHES WINE & FOOD FESTIVAL, NORTHWEST FLORIDA BALLET AND THE SEASIDE SCHOOL HALF MARATHON AND 5K

MARCH 28–APRIL 7

Emerald Coast Theatre Company presents

Around the World in 80 Days → It’s not the destination, it’s

MARCH 8–10

Northwest Florida Ballet |

New Moves

→ This unique performance in a specially

designed black box theater at the NFB’s downtown studios includes the premiere of cutting-edge works by guest choreographers as well as pieces from NFB’s repertoire. An accompanying art exhibit features local visual artists. Performances are scheduled for Friday, March 8, at 7:30 p.m.; Saturday, March 9, at 2:30 and 7:30 p.m.; and Sunday, March 10, at 2:30 p.m.

Tickets are $35 for adults and $15 for children 12 and under.

MARCH 3

SEASIDE SCHOOL HALF MARATHON AND 5K RUN

→ Choose between the half marathon or 5K.

Either option will be scenic and both benefit the Seaside School. Proceeds enable students to participate in advanced placement and career readiness courses.

Visit runseasidefl.com for more information.

the journey. Jules Verne’s classic tale springs to life in this clever, fast-paced comedy for the whole family. Proper gentleman Phileas Fogg strikes a wager and sets off on a race that puts his fortune and his life at risk.

Fierce natives, furious typhoons, runaway trains, a damsel in distress and a dogged detective threaten to delay him at every step in this delightful, whirlwind odyssey that will keep you on the edge of your seat from beginning to unexpected end.

For all ages.

Visit EmeraldCoastTheatre.org for tickets and show times.

MARCH 7–10

BAD DATES: STARRING JENNIFER STEELE

→ Restaurant manager and shoe connoisseur Haley Walker is finally ready to re-enter the dating world. From the privacy of her bedroom, she relates a series of hilarious tales while preparing for, and recovering from, one dreadful date after another. One of the most popular shows in Huntington history, this 15th anniversary production of Theresa Rebeck’s sweet and sharp comedy will be the hottest date night in town and a triumphant night out for women of all ages!

Visit EmeraldCoastTheatre.org for tickets and show times.

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FEBRUARY 16

Hops for Hounds

→ The second annual Hops for Hounds Dog Walk is a 2-mile walk and party to celebrate your four-legged family members.

Visit 850tix.com for more info.

REGIONAL

MARCH 8-10

Red Hills International Horse Trials → Competitors from around the world descend on

Tallahassee for the annual equestrian competition at Elinor Klapp Phipps Park.

Visit 850tix.com for more info.

REGIONAL APRIL 27

FEBRUARY 28

OPENING NIGHTS | ROSANNE CASH

Boys and Girls Club Annual Dinner

→ The Boys and Girls Club of the Emerald Coast holds their annual dinner at The Henderson Beach Resort.

Visit 850tix.com for more info.

REGIONAL APRIL 27–APRIL 28

MARCH 7

Contractors Connect → Network and make connections during the March Meet Up at AJ’s Grayton Beach.

Visit 850tix.com for more info.

LEMOYNE ART CHAIN OF PARKS ART FESTIVAL

→ Get ready for a first-class, fun-filled outdoor cultural experience at the Chain of Parks Art Festival. View amazing, original and one-of-a-kind works of art while enjoying a wide variety of live entertainment, a host of local food trucks and vendors plus libations served enthusiastically at the W XYZ Bar by Aloft.

Free and open to the public. Visit chainofparks.com for more information.

REGIONAL

the grand finale of its 2018-19 season, featuring Grammy Award winner Rosanne Cash.

Rosanne’s latest album, “She Remembers Everything,” is a poetic, lush and soulful collection of songs that marks a return to personal songwriting. Tickets for the show, which is sponsored by Jim B. Taylor and scheduled for the Rudy Diamond Concert Hall in Tallahassee, range from $25 to $65; student tickets are half price.

Purchase tickets at OpeningNights.

FSU.edu or call (850) 644-6500.

FEBRUARY 22-24

WAKULLA COUNTY TOURISM DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL | STONE AGE AND PRIMITIVE ARTS FESTIVAL

→ Witness Wakulla County’s homage to the stone age and primitive times at this annual event

offering guests demonstrations on primitive weaponry, the art of arrowhead making, hide tanning, basket weaving, pottery making and lessons in carving shell, bone, antlers or wood. The festival also offers several kinds of ancient contests for guests, such as and archery/atlatl competition.

Admission is $4 per vehicle (up to 8 people).

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PHOTOS BY SCOTT HOLSTEIN (RED HILLS), BYTOVAMN (HOPS FOR HOUNDS) AND KERKEZ (BOYS AND GIRLS CLUB ANNUAL DINNER) / ISTOCK / GETTY IMAGES PLUS AND COURTESY OF CHAIN OF PARKS ART FESTIVAL, SHORE FIRE MEDIA (ROSANNE CASH), WAKULLA COUNTY TOURISM DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL AND CONTRACTORS CONNECT

→ Join Opening Nights for

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BAYTOWNE ON ICE FEB. 1–2 A visit to the ice-skating rink in The Village of Baytowne Wharf at Sandestin will keep you in the winter spirit. The first hour of each day is reserved for “Kids Skate,” for children ages 12 and under.

Skate rentals are available. baytownewharf.com

DOUBLE BRIDGE RUN FEB. 2 The Pensacola Double Bridge Run, presented by Publix, is one of the premier 15Ks in the country. The race will start in downtown Pensacola and will pass through the historic district along picturesque Bayfront Parkway, through Gulf Breeze and onto Pensacola Beach.

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

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FLORA-BAMA’S ‘SUPER’ BOWL CHILI COOK-OFF FEB. 2 In the spirit of the Super Bowl, teams will strive to serve up super bowls of chili and impress the judges at the Flora-Bama Lounge, Package and Oyster Bar in Pensacola.

If you don’t want to cook, come by and sample the wide variety of dishes. Awards will be announced at the end of the day. florabama.com/chili-cook-off.html

THE ENVELOPE, PLEASE — PENSACOLA SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA FEB. 2 From Broadway to Hollywood, this concert features awardwinning music that has captured our imagination.

Tony Award nominee and film star Susan Egan joins the PSO for this high-energy

evening featuring favorites from “Hamilton,” “My Fair Lady,” “The Way We Were” and “Beauty and the Beast,” in which Egan had her most high-profile Broadway role as the original “Belle.”

road to Mattie Kelly Arts Center’s production of “The Wizard of Oz.” Delight in the elaborate set, the enthralling special effects and the timeless characters who become friends.

pensacolasymphony.com

mattiekellyartscenter.org

THE MARVELOUS VEGAS COMEDY CLUB

KNOCKOUT RETURNS FEB. 14

sandestingumbofestival.com

FEB. 8

Farmer’s Daughter Vineyards of Thomasville, Georgia, is giving its red wine, Knockout, a new look in preparation for its return to the market on Valentine's Day. Twice, the popular red has sold out since it was first distributed in 2016.

MOZART MADNESS — PENSACOLA SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA

The Emerald Coast Theatre Company will become a Vegas comedy club for one night only. Heather TolleyBauer, The Rat Pack and the 1950’s Vegas Lounge Act will deliver routines that will make you laugh until you cry. The event is a benefit for Emerald Coast Theatre Company and is sponsored by ResortQuest Gulf Coast. emeraldcoasttheatre.org

THE WIZARD OF OZ FEB. 11 Follow the yellow brick

February–March 2019 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

Find out more at facebook.com/ events/2180847022189149

30TH ANNUAL SANDESTIN GUMBO FESTIVAL FEB. 15–16 Restaurants and businesses along the Gulf Coast will

compete for the title of “Area’s Best” as they concoct and serve unique creations of a Southern classic dish: gumbo. Held at The Village of Baytowne Wharf, this event promises to be a weekend filled with food, live music, family activities and much more.

FEB. 16 The soaring stained-glass windows and warmth of First United Methodist’s sanctuary provide the beautiful setting for a performance of Mozart’s Symphony No. 25 and Sinfonia Concertante for Wind Quartet and Orchestra. Just an hour long, this smaller, more intimate concert is a wonderful experience. pensacolasymphony.com

THE SNOWY DAY AND OTHER STORIES BY EZRA JACK KEATS FEB. 16, 17, 23 This production is inspired by the acclaimed children’s stories of Ezra Jack Keats.

Follow a young boy named Peter as he explores the world around him. From the joys of a snowfall to learning how to whistle, these sweet, simple stories will captivate. emeraldcoasttheatre.org

8TH ANNUAL 30A WINE FESTIVAL FEB. 20–24 Sip and swill at the annual 30A Wine Festival, a mustexperience for fans of fine wines and the culinary arts. Proceeds from the Wine Festival will support the Children’s Volunteer Health Network, a nonprofit organization that is dedicated to providing access to health services for children in Walton and Okaloosa counties.

30awinefestival.com

KREWE OF ST. ANDREWS KIDS & PET PARADE FEB. 22 Get the party weekend started with a kid- and petfriendly parade. After the parade, enjoy food, bounce houses, entertainment and family fun. standrewsmardigras.com

FEB. 23 For 22 years, the St. Andrews Mardi Gras Parade has been the largest, most popular Mardi Gras celebration in Bay County. More than 14 krewes and 30 floats travel the parade route, throwing thousands of strings of beads to the crowd. standrewsmardigras.com

TASTE OF THE RACE MARCH 1 This event kicks off the Seaside School Half Marathon race weekend.

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

MARCH 8 Farmer's Daughter Vineyards + Tasting Room is making plans to celebrate the release of its latest wine — a mystery for now, but said to be bright, off-dry and fruit forward. Be among the first to taste what's new from this award-winning vintner in Thomasville, Georgia.

Learn more at facebook.com/ events/511616112680961

EMERALD COAST CAC’S GALA AND GOLF TOURNAMENT

Pensacola’s Comic Con returns to the Pensacola Bay Center and Pensacola Grand Hotel with many celebrity authors, artists and actors present, including an Indiana Jones and Power Rangers cast reunion.

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

pensacon.com

eccac.org

FEB. 22–24

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO

EMERALD COAST BOAT & LIFESTYLE SHOW

NEW RELEASE CELEBRATION

MARCH 9

PENSACON PHOTO BY ALLISON YII COURTESY OF EMERALD COAST BOAT & LIFESTYLE SHOW

KREWE OF ST. ANDREWS MARDI GRAS PARADE

MARCH 15-17 The third annual Emerald Coast Boat & Lifestyle Show features major manufacturers and top dealers in the boat industry. Come to see the boats and stay to attend a seminar or to check out the displays of the latest and greatest in fishing and diving gear, paddleboards, bicycles, activewear and more. gulfboatshow.com

HAMMER OF THE GODS, THE LED ZEPPELIN EXPERIENCE MARCH 9

will present the 25th annual “Gulf Breeze Celebrates the Arts” fine arts festival at Gulf Breeze High School.

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

This international touring act recreates the excitement of Led Zeppelin’s legendary live concerts from the early 1970s. The multimedia performance entertains with period costumes, spectacular staging and your favorite rock classics.

gulfbreezearts.com

mattiekellyartscenter.org

For the 12th year, the Destin and Greater Fort Walton Beach chambers of commerce will join in bringing their members the biggest marketing and networking opportunity around. See the latest and greatest our area businesses have to offer,

GULF BREEZE ELEBRATES THE ARTS FESTIVAL MARCH 23–24 The city of Gulf Breeze and Gulf Breeze Arts, Inc. (GBA)

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

MULTI-CHAMBER BUSINESS EXPO & TASTE OF OKALOOSA COUNTY MARCH 28

during the county’s largest office party. The event is free and open to the public. destinchamber.com

CENTER STAGE: A BENEFIT CONCERT FEATURING DEE DANIELS MARCH 29 The Pensacola Symphony presents Center Stage: A Benefit Concert. This event will take place at Vinyl Music Hall and feature a swing, soul and blues-inspired performance by vocalist Dee Daniels. All of the funds raised at Center Stage will support PSO’s Beyond the Stage program for community engagement and education. pensacolasymphony.com

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

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SOCIAL STUDIES Best of the Emerald Coast

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OCT. 20 Emerald Coast Magazine hosted its 19th annual Best of the Emerald Coast event, benefitting the Junior League of the Emerald Coast. With more than 2,000 guests in attendance, the streets of Grand Boulevard at Sandestin were packed.

Event-goers visited the booths of more than 80 Best of the Emerald Coast winners, who displayed their products, services, delicious food and tasty beverages.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY EPIC PHOTO CO.

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1 Anthony and Tamika McKinney with Stephanie and Shaun Knight 2 Lindsay Warren, Stacy Agerton, Kendall Maxwell and Sharon Thigpen 3 Nancy, Chloe and Ronnie Stanley 4 Zula Swanson and Kim Carnley 5 Tina Snodgrass, Michelle Smith and Betsy Grinstead 6 Dan and Kerri Parker

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LOCAL TICKETS. ONE PLACE. 850Tix is your source for local events across Northwest Florida.mFrom the same trusted awardwinning team that has published Emerald Coast Magazine for more than 19 years, our goal is to promote the community our readers know and love. From festivals and tours to sports and the arts, the event choices in Northwest Florida are endless and all on 850Tix.com.

Have an event that needs ticketing and marketing? Call Brian Rowland at (850) 878-0554 or visit 850Tix.com to learn more.

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SOCIAL STUDIES Harvest Wine & Food Festival OCT. 27 The Harvest Wine & Food Festival provided patrons the opportunity to sip and savor some of the world’s finest wine and culinary selections while enjoying the beautiful beach town of WaterColor.

Emerald Coast Magazine sponsored the VIP Tent, where guests enjoyed the magazine’s signature cocktail, “Emerald Coast Sunrise,” Timber Creek Distillery spirits and wine selections from Domaine Serene, the Robert Craig Winery, Roy Estate and VGS Chateau Potelle. Chefs from Cuvee Kitchen + Wine Bar and Restaurant Paradis provided food.

Staff members also donned unique gems from Bijoux De Mer Fine Jewelry as guests captured personal GIF videos at the EPC Photo Co. booth.

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PHOTOS COURTESY OF KATE PIERSON, HAYLEY MCCAIN, JESSICA PROFFITT-BRACKEN AND KATE MACMILLAN

1 Kate Pierson, McKenzie Burleigh Lohbeck, Carmen Wilkinson, Renee Launiere, Rhonda Murray, Mac Little and Abby Crane 2 Allie & Salty Live Music 3 Mark Eichin and Donnie Sellers 4 Jean-Noel Formeaux and Matthew Regan

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5 Hayley and Kim McCain 6 John Russell, Kate MacMillan, Melissa Vidaurre and Karah Fridley-Young

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SOCIAL STUDIES Baytowne Beer Fest OCT. 12–13 Known as the “Best Beer Fest on the Emerald Coast,” this year’s festival featured more than 40 on-site craft brewers, nearly 200 domestic and international craft beers, seminars, samplings and live music. Beer novices and brew lovers alike were able to sample delicious options, including specialty, seasonal and not-yet-released beers. A part of the festival proceeds went to the Emerald Coast Children’s Advocacy Center, Fisher House of the Emerald Coast and the Sandestin Foundation for Kids.

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PHOTOS COURTESY OF SANDESTIN GOLF AND BEACH RESORT

1 Daisha Larson and Kimberly Ness 2 Erica Henderson, Rene Dubois, Ryan Dubois and Tony Harkleroad 3 Keily Rosado, Brenda Santiago and Aiza Rivera 4 Steve and Terri Haseltine, Marybelle Beckmeier and Patricia Perry

Boys and Girls Club of the Emerald Coast’s Stake and Burger Dinner NOV. 8 Over 400 people came out to support the mission of the local Boys and Girls Clubs during the fifth annual Stake and Burger Dinner at the Hilton Sandestin.

Attendees also had a chance to meet and mingle with wrestling super star Hulk Hogan, himself a Boys and Girls Club alumnus.

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PHOTOS COURTESY OF ZHALMAN HARRIS

1 Nicole Floyd and Kari Phillips 2 Michele and Shervin Rassa, Branden Jackson, Hulk Hogan, Jimmy Hart, Amir Rassa and Jacinda Rassa 3 Hulk Hogan and Heather Ruiz with Family 4 Dominique, Lucy, Raquel and LeeAnna Carter

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PROMOTION

SOCIAL STUDIES Cattle Baron’s Ball

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The 11th Annual Emerald Coast Cattle Barons’ Ball in Sandestin featured live and silent auctions, entertainment

by The Modern Eldorados and fancy vittles from the area’s leading restaurants.

Guests two-stepped the night away to raise funds for cancer research, advocacy, education and patient services for the American Cancer Society.

NOV. 30

PHOTOS COURTESY OF MICHAEL AND GRAYSON CAGE

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1 Honorary Chairs Candis and Jack Wilson 2 Chair Kay Phelan with Lori Smith and Ronda Murray 3 Co-emcees Tim Krueger, Santa and Ron Adams 4 Rachel Brown with Vice Chair Deborah Elmore

Café Thirty-A Christmas Ball

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DEC. 7 Café Thirty-A presented its annual Charity Christmas Ball in December with all proceeds benefiting Caring and Sharing of South Walton. Guests enjoyed a buffet, heavy hors d’oeuvres and music by Rock the House.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF CAFE THIRTY-A

1 Caroline Boone and Jessica Proffitt-Bracken 2 Kelly Thompson and Jessica Plowden

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3 Paul Landers, Deb Landers, Angie Resiak, J.T. and Virginia Trzaskus

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PROMOTION

SOCIAL STUDIES Merry Little Christmas Concert DEC. 20 The Boys and Girls Clubs of the Emerald Coast hosted the Merry Little Christmas Concert at the South Walton Club, featuring heavy hors d’oeuvres and holiday music by Chris Alvarado, Jacob Mohr, Jessie Ritter and other local musicians. VIP guests had premium seating at the concert and received a complimentary glass of champagne. The concert also served as a head start for holiday shopping as a silent auction featured gift ideas for everyone.

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PHOTOS BY JIM CLARK

1 Chris Alvarado 2 Jill Tanner and her mother, along with Steve and Theri Isaacs of the MLC 3C arly Harmer, Shervin Rassa, Lexi Davis, Ali Weil, Erin Bakker 4 Jessie Ritter

Capt.on Dave’s the

SERVING LOCAL FLORIDA SEAFOOD AND STEAKS Dinner 4pm UNTIL …

For more information visit captdavesonthegulf.com

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

Years 0 5

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

3796 Scenic Hwy 98, Destin | 850.837.2627 | captdavesonthegulf.com EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

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Ginger’s

(continued from page 75)

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ALEXA GUARACHI CLIMBS THE TENNIS LADDER

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February–March 2019 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

FREE

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TOP ALEXA GUARACHI AND HER DOUBLES PARTNER,

Erin Routliffe, sat dejected at the Bank of England Sports Center in Roehampton, England. It had appeared that they would make it in to the qualifying tournament for The Championships, Wimbledon. But, with five minutes left in the sign-in period, the one-time University of Alabama tennis stars were informed that they had been bumped from the field, which is established based on the combined world rankings of the players. Then, the unexpected happened. The pair was summoned to the referee’s office.

There had been a mistake. THEY WERE IN.

STORY BY STEVE BORNHOFT

I have been shopping with clients for 31 years, listening to their needs and desires, then vigorously pursuing the market until I find the right fit, and I will do the same for you!

Alexa Guarachi, the most prized student of her teaching pro parents, has her sights set on the Olympic Games. She has gained the confidence that she can play with anyone.

//

PHOTO BY TODD DOUGLAS PHOTOGRAPHY

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50 times in a row, will you buy me the skirt I want at the outlet mall?”

Fernando agreed and Guarachi made it to 50 on her first try. A day later, she returned to the courts and announced, “I have come to get the top.”

As his wife had, Fernando adhered to the approach of not spending a lot of time on the court, but quality time.

He asked his daughter to give him 100 percent for one hour, for two reasons.

First, it was a way to avoid burnout. Secondly, because Guarachi didn’t find herself playing while tired, she hit her best shots throughout practice versus just trying to get the ball back.

All of that worked.

At age 12, Guarachi won a national USTA championship, playing in Arizona. At 14, she graduated from USTA play to International Tennis Federation (ITF) tournaments. She had worn out the competition in Florida and the Southeast and needed greater challenges.

She made her father promise to buy her a Walkman if she won a tournament in Egypt. Unbeknownst to him, she struck a similar deal with her mother, that one involving sunglasses. Guarachi won the event and cashed in.

Her ITF successes made Guarachi a top tennis recruit.

At one point, she had a backpack full of letters from schools around the country. She settled on her father’s alma mater and, four years later, would join a small pool of touring pros with four-year college degrees.

These days, Fernando serves Guarachi as agent and coach. He is working to win over sponsors. And, at this writing, he is trying to secure a full-time coach for his daughter who would travel with her and give her immediate feedback as matches are held.

In Chile in October, he met with an “image builder” who lined up eight media interviews for Guarachi, including one with ESPN. Fernando acted as her interpreter.

“It was a challenge,” Fernando said, noting that Guarachi has worked with a tutor to improve her Spanish and is committed to learning the language.

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February–March 2019

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“She had to manage her time to allow for both training and the interviews.”

Today, Fernando and Holly believe that the best is yet to come for their daughter. But her tennis future was in question in 2015 when she tore an ACL while playing in Waco, Texas.

Renowned sports medicine surgeon Dr. James Andrews repaired the damage, but Guarachi entertained thoughts that her tennis career might be over.

“I thought the injury was maybe a sign that there was something else in my life that I needed to be doing,” Guarachi said. “But then I realized that I was going to have to rehab my knee no matter what, so I committed to a comeback.

“I am grateful for Dr. Andrews and his team, and I was fortunate to have people who pushed me: my therapist Anthony Zillo and also Scott Rusin at iPerformance in Destin. It would be tough doing it by yourself every day.”

Guarachi wore a brace for about five months after returning to the court. Then, she burned it.

Holly and Fernando have succeeded in grooming a power player whose serve tops out at 120 mph and who is past the point where she is intimidated by anyone.

“You don’t take a donkey to the Kentucky Derby, and Alexa is a “You don’t take thoroughbred,” Fernando a donkey to said. “Wherever she goes, the Kentucky she goes to win. She Derby, and wants to collect titles, not souvenirs. If she makes Alexa is a it to Tokyo, she will not thoroughbred. be content to say that she Wherever she marched in the opening goes, she goes ceremony. She wants to win gold.” to win. ” Titles, to some extent, —Fernando Guarachi may be a way for Guarachi to pay her parents back.

“My parents have worked so hard for me,” she said. “I am so lucky to have had my dad as my coach.”

While tennis is famous for bad boys (John McEnroe, Ille Nastase) and even some bad girls (Maria Sharapova), Guarachi hopes always to be both humble and competitive and to remain a good winner and a good loser, no matter her ranking.

In that regard, her older brother Stefan, who loves dogs, movies and the Incredible Hulk and has Down syndrome, is immeasurably helpful.

“I think I am having a bad day, and then I think about Stefan and I realize how fortunate I am just to be able to play tennis,” Guarachi said. EC

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PROMOTION

Extravaganza Celebrates The Best of the Emerald Coast

BY S T E V E B O R N H O F T

F

raser Hansen who, corpulently speaking, is anything but stout, poured me a cup of an India Pale Ale that he calls Divide and Conch’r from a can he retrieved from an iced-down cooler.

As a sponsor of the 2018 edition of the Best of the Emerald Coast event, presented by Emerald Coast Magazine, Hansen, whose business, the Idyll Hounds Brewing Company, turned four years old in October, had an essential role to play: He supplied the beer for the VIP and hospitality tents.

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It may be that the angular and affable Hansen — I just knew his name was spelled with an “e” versus an “o,” given the faintly Scandinavian look about him — spends as much time naming his brews as paint companies devote to naming their hues.

Old Dutch gives us Aged Beauty, Smoked Rose and Bee Pollen. Hansen gives us Ghost Crab Pilsna’, Cap’n Coconut and George’s Cherry Tree.

Divide and Conch’r was light and crisp and refreshing and without an unwelcome aftertaste.

PROMOTION

P R E SEN T ED BY Emerald Coast Magazine B EN EFI T T IN G Junior League of the Emerald Coast

PHOTO BY KATE PIERSON (TOP RIGHT)

P H OTOS BY Jim Clark

The beer was good, a product like all of Hansen’s creations, of trial, error, imagination and tolerance of risk.

“Most breweries do what they know,” Hansen said. “We’re always experimenting. (MaN Mosa, for example, is said to be both sour and fruited.)

“If we try something and we don’t like it, we just pour it down the drain. I’m a beer explorer.”

“Explorer” is a good word to use in this context, because that is what Best of the Emerald Coast, held this year on Oct. 20 and hosted by the refined Sandestin shopping and dining venue, Grand Boulevard, is all about.

All who attend move among winners’ tents — it’s an extravaganza, really — exploring the best that the region has to offer, as established by an annual readers’ poll conducted by Emerald Coast Magazine.

The public accounting firm of Carr Riggs & Ingram handles the critical task of counting ballots.

Before I so much as exited the VIP tent, I was distracted by a woman whose voice rose above the din when she exclaimed, “This is divine,” about a red wine supplied by Farmer’s Daughter Vineyards of Thomasville, Georgia.

And, sure, I was further distracted by an “aerialist” who was perched atop a ring atop a pole.

Event-goers, predominantly men, like bees to a bloom, approached the performer, who was clothed in sequins and violet mesh and fishnet stockings.

The bees extended cups, supplied by ResortQuest by Windham Vacation Rentals, and the Girl in the Ring supplied the nectar — in the form of champagne — while tipping over in moves that surely caused the blood to run to her head. (I found this a fine way to chase a beer.)

All of this was spectacular enough, and then Emerald Coast Audio Visual turned on one of its dramatic Moon Balloon lights — I don’t know how much candle power those babies have,

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but it’s a lot — and suddenly the sequins sparkled and the bubbly shined and there was no place for a slightly flushed face to hide.

In any event, perhaps few people were aware that proceedings were being video-recorded by Land Air Sea Productions.

The light to me was welcome in that it better enabled me to take notes as I spoke with Daniele Hamrick, a Junior League of the Emerald Coast member who was the League’s VIP Tent chairwoman.

Hamrick described League projects including Food for Thought, which provides nutritional counseling to low-income families; Children in Crisis, an effort to keep siblings together when children are removed from their parents by housing them in group homes supervised by house parents; and its Child Clothing Project, which provides more than 400 deserving children with $100 to spend on clothing at a Target store.

“Standing here, you wouldn’t think so,” Hamrick said, “but 46.3 percent of children in Walton County qualify for free or reduced-price lunches.”

Proceeds of Best of the Emerald Coast go to support the Child Clothing Project.

In addition, proceeds were set aside this year to help with Hurricane Michael relief efforts. Exhibitors and others were encouraged to bring donations to

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the event, and funds were raised to help 30 children who were affected by the storm.

I departed the tent not the least bit self-conscious about the fact that I was carrying a tote bag donated

by Silver Sands Premium Outlets and stuffed with giveaways from participating businesses.

(I never owned a cell phone PopSocket before, but I have one now.)

Along the boulevard, marked with signs provided

by Eloquent Signs, I found myself among employees and owners of respected businesses who previously had gathered at a Winners Party held in their honor on Oct. 3 and hosted by Cuvée Kitchen + Wine Bar. I chatted with Leslie Moland, the marketing and public relations director for the White-Wilson Medical Center, P.A. She informed me that White-Wilson is the oldest hospital on the Emerald Coast and employs physicians who have treated patients from three different generations in the same family.

I sampled one of winning chef Jim Shirley’s specialties, shrimp and grits with shredded sweet potato. It’s a dish he once prepared at the White House.

I spoke with Anna Moonie, who was representing 654Limo and whose white dress matched the exterior of the cherry 1962 Lincoln Continental (with red leather interior) the deluxe transportation service had on display.

February–March 2019 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

From Capt. Philip Blackburn of the charter boat Backdown2, I learned that the fishing season offshore had been a good one, and it wasn’t over yet.

Blackburn had been out on a 12-hour trip just that day.

And I threw down a seafood trifecta: tuna dip from Destin Ice and Seafood; raw oysters with mignonette sauce from Slick Lips Oyster and Seafood House; and a tripletail slider from Dewey Destin’s Seafood Restaurant.

If all of that weren’t enough, I found that I had saved room for a mini-burger from MaGuire’s Irish Pub. All attendees expressed appreciation for Best of the Emerald Coast, for the recognition and support of local businesses it provides and for its contributions to charity.

I paused briefly at the silent auction tent and paid particular attention to a Justin Gaffrey painting, featuring his heavily textured style and depicting a Gulf shore-scape with a pier, sea oats and a sky of brilliant yellow.

That painting was still on my mind when I again visited Hansen and sampled a Burly Lady lager.

Had I had a few more, I might have gone back and ratcheted up the bidding on the Gaffrey piece.

But, Justin, I avoided immoderation, and I hope your work attracted the winning bid it deserved.

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#BESTOFEC P RESE N T E D BY

S PO NS O RE D BY

BE N EF I T T I NG

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dining guide FIREFLY ★

AMERICAN

Fresh Gulf seafood, steak, sushi and signature cocktails. Open daily at 5 p.m. 535 Richard Jackson Blvd., Panama City Beach. (850) 249-3359. $$$ D

THE BEACH HOUSE

Casual, beach-front dining. Open daily 11 am–10 pm. 4009 S. Sandestin Blvd., Miramar Beach. (850) 267-4800. $$ L D

BUFFALO’S REEF ★

Hot wings and cold beer. Tues–Sat open at 10:30 am, Sun open at noon. 116 Eglin Pkwy., Fort Walton Beach. (850) 243-9463. $ L D

GEORGE’S AT ALYS BEACH

Seafood, burgers and sandwiches. Open daily 11 am–3 pm and 5–9 pm. 30 Castle Harbour Dr.,

Alys Beach. (850) 641-0017. $$ L D

JACO’S BAYFRONT BAR & GRILLE

THE CRAFT BAR ★

Craft brews on tap along with artisan cocktails and elevated bar fare. Open daily 11 am–midnight.

4424 Commons Dr., Destin. Also in Grayton Beach and Pensacola. (850) 460-7907. $$ L D

CUVÉE KITCHEN + WINE BAR ★

Classic Italian, French and Asian-inspired dishes.

Open daily 5:30–10 pm. 36120 Emerald Coast Pkwy.

W., Destin. (850) 460-2909. $$$ D

DHARMA BLUE

Atmosphere and service match expansive menu including everything from sushi to pork tenderloin. Lunch Sat–Sun 10 am–1 pm.

Dinner daily from 5. 300 S Alcaniz St., Pensacola.

(850) 433-1275. $$ L D

EVERKRISP ★

LULU’S ★

Lucy Buffett’s funky hangout features cocktails, burgers and seafood, plus allergy-friendly menus. Open Sun–Thur 11 am–9 pm, Fri–Sat 11 am–10 pm.

4607 Legendary Marina Drive, Destin.

(850) 710-5858. $$ L D

Farm-to-table salads, rice bowls and other healthfocused American bites in modern, brick-lined digs. Open daily 10:30 am–9 pm. 4463 Commons Dr. W. #10a, Destin. (850) 460-8881. $$ L D

Waterfront restaurant serving burgers, salads, seafood and brunch daily. Open Mon–Wed 11 am–9 pm, Thurs–Sat 11 am–10 pm and Sun 10 am–9 pm. 997 S. Palafox St., Pensacola.

(850) 432-5226. $$ L D

MAGNOLIA GRILL

Steak, seafood, pasta, soups, salads and desserts.

Lunch Mon-Fri 11 am–2 pm, dinner Mon–Sat from 5 pm. Closed Sun. 157 SE Brooks St., Fort Walton Beach. (850) 302-0266. $$ L D Seafood, po’ boys, burgers and salads.

Open Sun.–Thur. 11 a.m.–8 p.m., Fri. 11 a.m.– 10 p.m., Sat. 8 a.m.–10 p.m. Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort, 9300 Emerald Coast Pkwy. W., Miramar Beach. (850) 267-7778. $ B L D Gourmet pizzas, Creole and American cuisine.

Open daily 5–10 pm. 404 E. Hwy. 98, Destin.

(850) 837-7960. $$$ D

NICK’S BOATHOUSE

Steak, seafood and barbecue. Wed–Fri 11 am– close, Sat–Sun 10 am–close. 172 Harbor Blvd, Destin. (850) 650-1200. $ L D

Serving a wide variety of seafood, steaks and flatbreads by the waterfront. Open daily for lunch and dinner from 11 am–9 pm. 455 W. Main St., Pensacola. (850) 912-8775. $$ L D

JOHN WEHNER’S VILLAGE DOOR BAYFRONT RESTAURANT & NIGHTCLUB ★

THE RED BAR ★

Dinner and dancing, serving barbeque and seafood. Open daily 5–9 pm. The Village of Baytowne Wharf, 136 Fisherman’s Cove, Miramar Beach. (850) 502-4590. $$ D

LOUISIANA LAGNIAPPE ★

A taste of New Orleans hits the coast through Louisiana-style favorites like shrimp and grits and Cajun seafood gumbo. Open daily from 4 pm.

775 Gulf Shore Dr., Destin. (850) 837-0881. $$ D

Chef-inspired twists on classic dishes.

Breakfast, lunch, dinner or cocktail. Open daily 7 am–2 pm. Tiki Bar open noon to sunset. Linkside Conference Center, 158 Sandestin Blvd. N., Miramar Beach. (850) 267-7108. $ B L

VIN’TIJ WINE BOUTIQUE & BISTRO ★ Seafood, salad, chef specials. Open daily 11 am–midnight. 10859 W. Emerald Coast Pkwy., #103, Miramar Beach. (850) 650-9820. $$ L D

MARINA BAR AND GRILL ★

MARINA CAFÉ

TAILFINS SEAFOOD HOUSE & OYSTER BAR ★

SUNSET BAY CAFÉ ★

Live music and a menu of varied options including pastas, seafood, salads and cocktails. Lunch and dinner daily 11 am–10 pm.

70 Hotz Ave., Grayton Beach. (850) 231-1008.

$L D

RESTAURANT PARADIS ★

Restaurant and lounge offers rich coastal flavors in its innovative dishes. Open Sun–Thur 5–9 pm, Fri–Sat 5–10 pm. 82 S. Barrett Square, Rosemary Beach. (850) 534-0400. $$$ D

ASIAN JIN JIN 1 ★

Fine Chinese cuisine available for dine in, takeout or delivery. Open Mon–Thur 11 a.m.– 10 p.m., Fri–Sat 11 am–10:30 pm. 2078 U.S. Highway 98 W., No. 104, Santa Rosa Beach.

(850) 622-5558. $ L D

OSAKA ★

Known for its sushi but serves a variety of dishes, including chicken, steak and seafood.

Lunch 11 am–2:30 pm, dinner 5–10:30 pm.

34845 Emerald Coast Pkwy., Destin.

(850) 650-4688 or (850) 650-4689. $$ L D

REAL THAI FUSION RESTAURANT ★

Authentic family-owned restaurant featuring traditional Thai fare and curry. Open Mon–Fri 11 am–3 pm, Sat Noon–9 pm. 12889 Emerald Coast Pkwy., Suite 105-B, Miramar Beach.

(850) 837-5344. $$ L D

SUSHIMOTO ★

Casual eatery with a sushi bar offering up creative rolls, plus other Japanese and Asian fusion fare. Lunch Mon–Fri 11 am–2 pm, Dinner Mon–Sat 5 pm–Close. 11394 U.S. Highway 98 W., Miramar Beach. (850) 424-5977. $$ L D

ADVERTISEMENT

Tom Rice

Owner and Curator, Magnolia Grill

What made you want to pursue this career? My first job in high school was as a busboy at Perri’s Italian Restaurant, and I fell in love with the restaurant business. After the Army, I returned to Perri’s kitchen and followed that up with stints at The Sound and The Seagull restaurants. I have been lucky to work for and with some great people who taught me life lessons about hard work and the nitty-gritty of the food business.

How would you describe the menu? Our menu consists of steaks, seafood and Italian. Those three early experiences gave me a solid foundation for this kind of food. We have not strayed from these basics, although we have tried to work in trends, such as gluten-free and vegetarian options.

How did Magnolia Grill get its start? My wife Peg and I opened the Magnolia Grill in 1996 as a ’50s diner in a shopping center. We relocated to our present location, a hundred-year-old cottage, in 1999.

It is a repository of things from our family and community, and we try to preserve the town’s history. It’s been called, “The museum that serves food.”

What do you want people to experience? The warmth and charm of the old house and the comfort of feeling at home while dining in a historical place with delicious food and an excellent staff.



What are some of the most popular menu items? Prime rib and steaks, chicken or veal Parmesan, and fried or grilled seafood.

134

157 Brooks St. SE, Fort Walton Beach (850) 302-0266, MagnoliaGrillFWB.com

February–March 2019 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

TOM RICE

NORTHWEST FLORIDA DAILY NEWS

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THAI DELIGHTS

GREEK

Traditional dishes in a casual atmosphere.

Open daily 11 am–9 pm. 821 Harbor Blvd., Destin. (850) 650-3945. $$ L D

AEGEAN RESTAURANT ★

Authentic Greek restaurant. Breakfast 8–11 am, lunch 11 am–4 pm, dinner 4–9 pm.

11225 Emerald Coast Pkwy., Miramar Beach (and Shalimar). (850) 460-2728. $$ B L D

BBQ 98 BAR-B-QUE

Award-winning barbecue, gumbo, sandwiches and salads in a casual atmosphere. Dine in, take out, catering. Mon–Sat 11 am–8 pm. 5008 Hwy. 98, Santa Rosa Beach. (850) 622-0679. $ L D

JIM ’N NICK’S COMMUNITY BAR-B-Q ★

Laid-back chain features slow-cooked bbq, burgers and classic sides. Open Sun–Thur 11 am–9 pm, Fri– Sat 11 am–11 pm. 14073 Emerald Coast Pkwy., Destin.

(850) 424-5895. $$ L D

ALA BABA GRILL CAFÉ

Casual spot for familiar Turkish and Greek recipes offered à la carte and at a buffet, plus beer and wine. 10 am–9 pm. 550 Mary Esther Cutoff, Fort Walton Beach. (850) 986-5555. L D

APRIL 25–28, 2019

Town Center of Grand Boulevard at Sandestin® Miramar Beach, FL

YIOTA’S GREEK DELI

Traditional Greek food made from family recipes. Order at counter. 10 am–5 pm.

130 E. Miracle Strip Pkwy., Mary Esther.

(850) 302-0691. $ L

BREAKFAST/ BRUNCH/BAKERY

IRISH

04 25 - 28 19

JOHNNY MCTIGHE’S IRISH PUB ANDY’S FLOUR POWER CAFE & BAKERY Lively brunch/lunch destination known for its French toast, rolled omelets and cheery ambiance.

Open Tues–Sat 7 am–2 pm, Sun 8 am–2 pm.

2629 Thomas Drive, Panama City Beach.

(850) 230-0014. $$ L D

ANOTHER BROKEN EGG CAFÉ

Breakfast all day, plus sandwiches, patty melts, specials, soups, salads and desserts. Open daily 7 am–2 pm, closed Mondays. 979 E. Hwy. 98, #F, Destin (Also in Miramar Beach, Panama City, Pensacola, Sandestin and Grayton Beach).

(850) 650-0499. $ B

BLACK BEAR BREAD CO. ★

Neighborhood bakery, coffee shop and café. Open Mon–Sat 7 am–3 pm, Sun 8 am–3 pm. 26 Logan Lane, Unit G, Santa Rosa Beach. (850) 213-4528. $ B L

BON APPETIT FRENCH BAKERY & CAFÉ ★ French pastries, croissants, crusty breads, soup, salads and sandwiches. Mon–Fri 7:30 am–5:30 pm, Sat 7:30 am–2 pm, Closed Sun. 420 Mary Esther Cutoff, Fort Walton Beach. (850) 244-2848. $ B L

DONUT HOLE BAKERY CAFE

Eat breakfast all day with fresh-baked donuts and hearty comfort food. Open daily 6 am–10 pm.

635 Harbor Blvd., Destin (also in Inlet Beach and Santa Rosa Beach). (850) 837-8824. $ B

MAMA CLEMENZA’S EUROPEAN BREAKFAST ★

Old World family recipes. Multiple award winner.

Brunch Wed–Sun 8 am–1 pm. 12273 Emerald Coast Pkwy. W, Miramar Beach. (850) 424-3157 and 8 am–1 pm on Sundays at 75 Eglin Pkwy, Fort Walton Beach. (850) 243-0707. $$ B

Burgers and pub grub and the famous 18-cent Senate Bean Soup. Open daily 11 am–2 am. 33 Hwy. 98, Destin (Also in Pensacola). (850) 650-0000. $$ L D

ITALIAN/PIZZA AMICI 30A

Offering authentic Italian cuisine with a flair for celebration. Open daily 11 am–11 pm.

12805 U.S. Hwy. 98 E., Suite R101, Inlet Beach. (850) 909-0555. $$$ L D

$B L D

CLEMENZA’S UPTOWN ★

Classic Italian. Wood-fired pizza, private dining, cooking school. Multiple award winner. Lunch Mon–Fri, dinner Mon–Sat. 75 Eglin Pkwy., Fort Walton Beach.

(850) 243-0707. $$ B L D

MOO LA LA ICE CREAM & DESSERTS ★

Indulge in 24 ice cream flavors as well as handcrafted pastries and desserts. Open 3–9 pm. 101 Cannery Lane, Miramar Beach. (850) 654-3333.

Classic Italian. Wood-fired pizza, specialty desserts, fish Fridays. Multiple award winner.

Lunch Mon–Fri, dinner Mon–Sat 5–9 pm.

Holiday Plaza, Hwy. 98, Miramar Beach.

(850) 650-5980. $$ L D

Breakfast Lunch Dinner

A dazzling roster of dozens of celebrity winemakers, distillers, chefs, brew masters and entertainers converge in South Walton, Florida to wine, dine, educate and entertain guests as part of the four-day celebration of wine during the South Walton Beaches Wine & Food Festival held April 25-28, 2019 throughout the Town Center of Grand Boulevard.

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MIMMO’S RISTORANTE ITALIANO

Italian dishes. Open Mon–Fri 11 am–10 pm, Sat–Sun 5–10 pm. 979 Hwy. 98, #5, Destin.

(850) 460-7353. $$ L D

Destin’s newest Italian restaurant offers authentic Italian cuisine such as wood-fired pizzas, pasta, calzones, salads, chef specialties and nightly specials. Mon–Thur 11 am–9 pm, Fri 11 am–10 pm, Sat 4 pm–10 pm, Sun 4 pm– 9 pm. 34904 Emerald Coast Pkwy., Suite 114, Destin. (850) 974-5484. $$ L D

The restaurants that appear in this guide are included as a service to readers and not as recommendations of the Emerald Coast Magazine editorial department, except where noted.

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MCGUIRE’S IRISH PUB ★

Authentic homemade pizza pie and Italian dishes in a casual atmosphere. Lunch and dinner daily 11 am–9:30 pm. 4005 E. Hwy. 30A, Seagrove Beach. (850) 231-2500.

CAFÉ SIENA ★

★ Best of the

$$ L D

ANGELINA’S PIZZA & PASTA

Coffee shop located at the entrance of The Village of Baytowne Wharf, serving fresh coffee, cappuccino, specialty drinks and breakfast. Open 6 am–1 pm. 9107 Baytowne Wharf Blvd., Suite B-4, Miramar Beach. (850) 267-4488. B

THE KEY

Easygoing pub providing Irish and American eats, a game room for kids and deck seating. 11 am–2 am. 2298 Scenic Hwy. 30A, Blue Mountain Beach. (850) 267-0101.

Outdoor Dining Live Music $ Inexpensive

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135

THE PIZZA BAR AT BUD & ALLEY’S

Upscale-casual Southern seafood restaurant and bar serving oysters and po’ boys, plus steak and cocktails. Open Sun–Thur 11 am–10 pm, Fri–Sat 11 am–11 pm. 34761 Emerald Coast Pkwy. #104, Destin. (850) 842-4788. $$ L D

TRATTORIA BORAGO

HARBOR DOCKS

Pork tenderloin or pan-seared grouper from the open kitchen. Open daily from 6 pm. 80 E. Hwy. 30A, Grayton Beach. (850) 231-9167. $$ D

MEXICAN

The Tradition Continues

CANTINA LAREDO ★

A gourmet twist on Mexican favorites. Sun–Thurs 11 am–10 pm, Fri–Sat 11 am–11 pm. 585 Grand Blvd., Miramar Beach. (850) 654-5649. $$ B L D

CRAB ISLAND CANTINA

Latin-inspired Mexican cuisine. Mon–Thurs 11 am–10 pm, Fri–Sat 11 am–11 pm, Sun 1 am–9 pm.

2 Harbor Blvd., Destin. (850) 424-7417. $$ L D

THE TACO BAR AT BUD & ALLEY’S Best Italian 2013, 2014, 2015, 2018 Best Restaurant Okaloosa County 2013, 2014, 2016, 2017, 2018 Best Service, Food & Beverage 2015 Best Locally Owned Restaurant 2017

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

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

Baja fish tacos, homemade guacamole, burritos and top-shelf margaritas. Open daily from 11 am (in season). 2236 E. Country Rd. 30A, Seaside.

(850) 231-4781. $$ L D

SEAFOOD BONEFISH ★

Contemporary grill chain offering a seafoodcentric menu, plus steaks & cocktails. Open Mon– Thur 4–10 pm, Fri 4–11 pm, Sat 11 am–11 pm, Sun 10 am–9 pm. Destin, Panama City, Pensacola. $$ L D

JACKACUDA’S SEAFOOD & SUSHI

Seafood, sushi, salad and sandwiches.

Open daily from 11 am. Sunday brunch at 10 am. 56 Harbor Blvd., HarborWalk Village, Destin. (850) 424-3507. $$ L D

OLD FLORIDA FISH HOUSE ★

Airy eatery is a family-friendly destination for seafood, with a sushi bar and frequent live music.

Open Sun–Thurs 11 am–10 pm, Fri–Sat 11 am– midnight. 5235 E. County Hwy. 30A, Santa Rosa Beach. (850) 534-3045. $$ L D

RUNAWAY ISLAND

Crab, oysters and grouper sandwiches in a casual beach bar and grill with steps onto the sand. Open daily at 11 am. 14521 Front Beach Rd., Panama City Beach. (850) 634-4884. $$ L D

STEAK & SEAFOOD BIJOUX RESTAURANT & SPIRITS ★

Fine dining coastal cuisine with a New Orleans flair, Gulf seafood, prime steaks. Open daily 4–10 pm.

The Market Shops, 9375 Emerald Coast Pkwy. W., #22, Miramar Beach. (850) 622-0760. $$$ D

CAFE THIRTY-A

Offering the best in steaks and Gulf fare, Café Thirty-A is also available for weddings and special gatherings. Open daily 5–9:30 pm. 3899 E. Scenic Hwy. 30A, Seagrove Beach. (850) 231-2166. $$$ D

BROTULA’S SEAFOOD HOUSE & STEAMER ★

CAPTAIN DAVE’S ON THE GULF

BUD & ALLEY’S WATERFRONT RESTAURANT ★

JACKSON’S STEAKHOUSE

Fresh steamed and boiled seafood dishes.

Open daily for lunch and dinner. Sunday brunch.

Destin Harbor, Destin. (850) 460-8900. $$$ B

Sea-to-table dining, serving fresh seafood, steak and vegetarian dishes. Open Mon–Fri 11:30 am.

Roof bar open in summer 11:30 pm–2 am. 2236 E. Hwy. 30A, Seaside. (850) 231-5900. $$$ L D

CAPT. ANDERSON’S RESTAURANT

Since 1967, offering traditional seafood items, flavorful salads and soups with a view of the marina. Open Mon–Fri at 4:30 pm, Sat–Sun at 4 pm. 5551 N. Lagoon Drive, Panama City Beach.

(850) 234-2225. $$$ D

Inspired by traditional waterfront dining, Captain Dave’s features American seafood cuisine infused with a contemporary Gulf Coast twist. Wed–Mon 4 pm– close. 3796 Scenic Hwy. 98, Destin. (850) 837-2627. $$$ D High-end steakhouse cuisine with fine wines. Local seafood is hand-selected and artistically prepared to perfection. Lunch Mon–Fri 1 am–2 pm, bruch Sat– Sun 11 am–2 pm, dinner Mon–Sun 5:30 pm–10 pm.

400 S. Palafox St., Pensacola. (850) 469-9898. $$$ D

MARLIN GRILL ★

Seafood, steaks, salads and appetizers. Open nightly from 5 pm. The Village of Baytowne Wharf, Miramar Beach. (850) 351-1990. $$$ D

RUTH’S CHRIS STEAK HOUSE ★

DEWEY DESTIN’S HARBORSIDE ★

Steak and seafood. New Orleans-inspired.

Mon–Sat 5:30–10 pm, Sun 5:30–9 pm. Silver Shells Resort, 1500 Emerald Coast Pkwy., Destin. (850) 337-5108. $$$ D

DEWEY DESTIN SEAFOOD RESTAURANT & MARKET ★

SEAGAR’S PRIME STEAKS AND SEAFOOD ★

Award-winning seafood in a quaint house.

Open daily 11 am–8 pm. 202 Harbor Blvd., Destin. (850) 837-7525. $$$ L D

Outdoor setting, fresh seafood. Open 11 am–8 pm. 9 Calhoun Ave., Destin.

(850) 837-7575. $$ B L D

THE FISH HOUSE

Fresh seafood cuisine and Southern specialties in a setting overlooking Pensacola Bay and the Seville Harbor. Open daily from 11 am. 600 S. Barracks St., Pensacola. (850) 470-0003. $$ L D

FOOW RESTAURANT

Southern coastal cuisine with an Asian flair.

Open daily 5:30–10 pm. Located in the WaterColor Inn, Santa Rosa Beach. (850) 534-5050. $$$ D

THE GRAND MARLIN ★

Featuring fresh Gulf seafood, an oyster bar, steak and signature cocktails, plus a view of Pensacola Bay. Open Mon–Thur 11 am–10 pm, Fri–Sat 11 am–11 pm, Sun 9 am–10 pm.

400 Pensacola Beach Blvd., Pensacola Beach.

(850) 677-9153. $$$ L D

February–March 2019 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

A surf-and-turf restaurant. Breakfast, lunch and dinner and great sushi. Open daily 5 am–11 pm.

538 E. Hwy. 98, Destin. (850) 837-2506. $$ B L D

Gulf-to-table Southern cuisine. Open daily from 11 am. 414 Harbor Blvd., Destin. (850) 424-7406.

BOSHAMPS SEAFOOD & OYSTER HOUSE ★ $$ L D

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HALF SHELL OYSTER HOUSE

Artisan cheese, fresh salads, antipasto dishes, homemade soups, seasonal vegetables, hearty pastas and homemade wood-fired Neapolitan pizza. Open daily from 11 am. 2236 E. County Rd. 30A, Seaside. (850) 231-3113. $$ L D

Premium steak, fresh seafood and caviar.

Open daily from 6 pm. Hilton Sandestin, 4000 S. Sandestin Blvd., Miramar Beach.

(850) 622-1500. $$$ D

SLICK LIPS SEAFOOD & OYSTER HOUSE ★ Family-friendly seafood spot located in The Village of Baytowne Wharf — with the freshest local Gulf-caught seafood and 1855 certified Angus steaks. Sun–Thur 11 am–9 pm; Fri–Sat 11 am–10 pm. 140 Fisherman’s Cove, Miramar Beach. (850) 347-5060. $$ L D

TAKE OUT DESTIN ICE SEAFOOD MARKET & DELI ★

Fresh fish and seafood items, pastas, salads and side dishes, Buckhead meats, decadent desserts, wines, cheeses, spices and more. Open daily 8 am–7 pm. 663 Emerald Coast Pkwy., Destin.

(850) 837-8333. $$ L D

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February–March 2019

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postscript

IT’S NOT ROCKET SURGERY

PORK VINDALOO An adventuresome diet misadventure

F

or reasons I can’t explain, I had somehow developed a narrow view of Indian food. I lumped it in the “it won’t like you, so don’t like it” category. When it comes to food, I am up for almost anything, so my unintended boycott of Indian food was never really well thought out.

My eating history is full of culinary left turns.

On a trip to Spain, my “eat anything” partner, David, and I pledged to eat the most ridiculous thing we could find on every menu. It was actually pretty wonderful. Our wives were supportive non-participants. I’ve learned that I prefer parts from the front end of an animal, but the back end has its own appeal. The bounty from the middle is usually the safest, but when you’re on an adventure, it’s usually the outer boundaries that are the most interesting.

I recall a quick, two-day trip to Washington, D.C. My friend Reggie tried to get us into what is generally regarded as the best Indian restaurant in the city, but with short notice we found ourselves at the next best thing: a new, trending Indian place in Georgetown.

It took one bite for me to realize that I had been wrong.

The food was amazing. It was a burst of cumin, yogurt and cilantro. How did I miss out on this explosion of flavors for so many years? I tried to catch up in one night and left the place stuffed.

The next night, I opted to stay at a hotel near the airport because I would be departing Washington on an early morning flight. I happened to look out my hotel window, and right across the street was the top-rated Indian restaurant we couldn’t get into the

night before. It was kismet, so I took a chance and scored a seat at the bar.

Here’s a travel tip: If you are not used to Indian food, don’t eat it two nights in a row and then fly early the next morning.

It started quietly enough — a little stomach rumble, nothing serious. That lasted a few minutes, and then it hit.

It was clear that our flight was in trouble. I will spare you the gory details, but know that two flight attendants resigned, our flight was diverted to Knoxville, and seven passengers were offered free tickets to anywhere — for life.

Children were crying. The guy next to me tried furiously to open the window. I had a Jakarta traffic jam in my gut, and there was a cow in the middle of the intersection.

Many questions passed through my mind.

How could I have been this stupid? How could I have knowingly put lava in my gut? Why had a jackal crawled up inside me and died? Why was I Linda Blair? Is it possible to swallow hot coals? How has India survived this long? Is it illegal to spit fire on an airplane? If I explode, will I still get my frequent flier miles? Was Gandhi truly contemplating, or was he just quietly passing gas?

I’m positive no one wants to hear the end of this adventure. Seriously, you don’t. So I’ll leave you with an old Indian proverb: It is little use to dig a well after the house has caught fire.

I don’t know which Indian said that, but I am pretty sure that he or she had just eaten pork vindaloo. EC

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

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Ruskin Place - Seaside Designed by New York architect Walter Chatham as one of Seaside’s first live/work row houses & featured on the cover of Architecture Magazine, this home originally featured commercial space on the first floor with living space above. Though converted to all residential living, this home is easily converted to allow for an art gallery or other commercial venture on the ground floor. Recently refurbished and beautifully furnished with a distinctive contemporary and modern design, the interior of this home completes the overall design concept invoking row houses of the late 19th Century with a tropical flair and design as envisioned by the architect.

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