Scarlett | July+August 2021

July+August 2021

VACATION Pack Your Bags, Ladies!

The latest in women’s fashion, beauty, home decor, lifestyle, and health.

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What’s Inside Features 19

VACATION Fashion

Beauty

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Enjoy stress-free packing for your next adventure following these getaway wardrobe tips.

Explore the trends of an art that has been practiced for more than 5,000 years.

Get Ready with Me

Salty Vibes

Summer Swimwear

Express yourself this summer with the help of the latest trends in beachwear.

Health

Lifestyle

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The O-shot might be your new best friend, with the help of JDCC Skincare’s Jerry D. Drinkard, ARNP.

Raise a glass to some amazing women in our community.

O My!

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Let’s Get Physical

Take your workout with you this vacay! Corie Black gives us a travelfriendly routine to keep you going.

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About Face

Get sunscreen tips from skincare professional Stacie Senn with Aqua Medical Spa.

Long Live the Queens The History of Drag

Three of the hottest drag queens in the area give us an inside look into what it’s like to perform, how it’s changed, and where to go to see for yourself!

The Beauty of Henna

Home Decor 54

Tour of Homes Pensacola

Jessica Duncan gives us an up close look at Stiffy’s Sandbar, Chad and Christina Stifflemire’s backyard paradise.

Heroines

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A Few Good Men

Leaders, mentors, partners, gentlemen ... a few good men.

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Cover to Cover

Read any good books lately? Here are our picks to get you started.

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Happy Hour

Need something to do on your next getaway? Drink the rainbow!

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The Lost Art of Ice Cream

Don’t miss out on these delicious flavors this summer.

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Anything He Can Do...

Megan Gaster’s life as a Delivery Captain is smooth sailing. www.ScarlettMag.com

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July+August 2021

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Impact100 empowers women to find their voices as activists and impact their communities through large grants.

We love it, and we know you’ll love it too. Take a look at what we’ve chosen for this issue’s musthaves.

Before diving in, turn up this specially curated playlist inspired by this issue.

Be the Change

Wishlist Haul

Listen Up!

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| There’s Something About Mary

Let’s Go, Girls!

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ummer is here, ladies! And with summer comes the most popular time for vacations.

Oh, and speaking of vacations, we’re thrilled to bring you Scarlett’s first VACATION issue — by pure coincidence, of course *wink*! If you are anything like me, you love a good getaway. It doesn’t have to be a long vacation to be a good one. Personally, I love a quick weekend trip just as much as a week-long stay somewhere.

As a child, I was fortunate enough to go on some wonderful trips with my family. One of my most memorable vacations was a road trip to the Grand Canyon, my first (and last) cross-country road trip. We made so many memories and stops along the way. It wasn’t the most glamorous trip, but it was one of the best experiences of my life. We loaded up my mama’s suburban (eight people and a lot of luggage) and drove cross-country. It took us 10 days, nine states, and a million verses of “99 bottles of beer” to get there and back. Some of my fondest memories root from that summer vacation.

Now that I am an adult, I see what all goes into planning a memorable and fun vacation.

From spending hours scouring Google for the best hotel deals to estimating how far we can make it between bathroom breaks for the kids, it can take a whole new skill-set, worthy of adding to your résumé! To help make more time to do fun stuff (like squeezing in extra time at the pool), we have some great tips and ideas for the perfect vacation or staycation.

Remember to follow us on social media to stay in the know for everything Scarlett. From packing tips to cocktail trends, this issue covers ALL things vacation. So, let’s dive right in.

Mary Aho Editor

www.ScarlettMag.com

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On the Cover July+August 2021

e decor, lifestyle, and health.

Vitamin Sea

When it comes to our cover girl, Dr. Nina Lum, we have three words; YOU GLOW GIRL! Dr. Lum is a motivational speaker, podcaster for the IMG Roadmap, and top notch vacationer. In this issue, we take a dip into all things vacation. From travel tips, to bathing suit trends, we cover it all. Head out to the pool, soak up some sun, and dive into the VACATION issue of Scarlett.

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photography by: Shanna Magnuson model: Dr. Nina Lum location: Henderson Beach State Park

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Who is Scarlett?

The Team

Steve Barber

Mary Aho

Publisher

Sheila MacDiarmid Graphic Designer

Jessica Graña

Editor

Kristin Frazier Copy Editor

Creative Director

Shanna Magnuson Lead Photographer

Mason Brunner Portrait Photographer

www.ScarlettMag.com

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Contributors Here they are ... Our amazing team of contributors. Smart, talented, opinionated.

The strength of this group is incredible.

Scarlett is possible because of their wisdom, vision, perspective, and passion for their work because, frankly, we know you give a damn.

We are proud to surround ourselves with this incredible talent:

Steve Barber, Publisher Mary Aho, Editor Jessica Graña, Creative Director Kristin Frazier, Copy Editor Sheila MacDiarmid, Graphic Designer Shanna Magnuson, Lead Photographer Mason Brunner, Portrait Photographer

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Noelle Albiero, Intern Harrison Barber, Distribution Emily Brink, Writer Colleen Duffley, Photographer/Writer Jessica Duncan, Writer Whitney Lee, Writer Courtney Murray, Writer Liesel Schmidt, Writer Kristina Wright, Photographer

Special Thanks Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa, Maggie Weaver, Jason Lindblad, Champagne Munroe, Miss. Cie, Kendyll Michaels 17

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written by: Noelle Albiero photography by: Shanna Magnuson

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eing in Florida, swimsuit season tends to be most of the year, so there is always a reason to buy more swimsuits. There are timeless swimsuits like classic one-pieces or bikinis that never go out of style. But, coming into summer 2021, many new trends have come out that are worth noting. Finding new ways to stay trendy and cool will help you show up at the beach or any poolside event with a stylish splash.

Swimsuit trends have changed since they first came out in the 1800s making modesty a woman’s greatest asset.

A couple of centuries later, many things have changed. Swimwear has become a fashionable way for women to express themselves, and society now praises body diversity.

Recent trends have something for everyone, with a combination of different prints and cutouts flattering on almost every body type. The first really popular trend that has shown up this year is keyhole cutouts. Year after year, trends take a different mix on cutouts, but this year’s keyhole look takes a classic silhouette and gives it a fresh new look. This trend is flattering on all bodies, especially if you wanted to show some extra skin without wearing a bikini. This trend also goes hand in hand with asymmetrical swimsuits. These cutouts are also perfect for women with curvier bodies because they not only accentuate the curves of the body but gives your swimsuit a fresh style.

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Another popular trend on most bodies, especially those who do not have many curves, is string bikinis and tie details. String bikinis are flattering on most body types, and with being adjustable, it is easier to find a style that fits better. Recently, many influencers have shown other ways to wear the classic string bikini to help anyone find a style and fit they are looking for. Who knew that one string bikini could be worn nine different ways. Also, a more flattering look is tie details because it offers the exact waist-accentuating details as a belt but with a more subtle look.

Now for prints. This year shows a lot of fun, colorful animal prints, and bold retro patterns. With bright colors, it is the perfect way to make a strong statement. Bright hues symbolize excitement and happiness. Another great thing about neon and bright colors is they also make your skin look more tan and young. Many brands have their takes on colorful zebra and leopard prints in every type of swimsuit style. Lastly, retro patterns have come in full swing this year. From bold florals to Y2K prints, there is a large variety to choose from — looks that remind you of the good ol’ days.

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Lastly, this year there has been a big trend of sarongs as the choice of cover-up. They are sold in all different lengths and colors. These are perfect for the hot weather because they are light and breathable and perfect just to throw on when you are going out before or after the beach. This summer, they are being sold with bikinis as three-piece sets so they can match your bikini.

Dive into the beach trends because they are not only flattering on every age and body, but they add a twist to a classic bathing suit that will be eye-catching anywhere you go. These trends work on women of all sizes since you can get any style bathing suit with a trendy print or a classic bathing suit with a little more detail. Add a little more to your swimsuit collection this year with these fun and flirty styles.

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V.3espa

Celebrating 75 Years

written by: Noelle Albiero photography by: Colleen Duffley

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espa celebrates their 75th anniversary and surpasses the remarkable milestone of 19 million units produced.

From the moment they burst into cultures worldwide, they have represented freedom and emancipation for young people everywhere. With the unique design comes a unique history.

With disastrous roads left behind in Italy from World War II, it would be hard for car manufacturers to succeed. A family involved in the aerospace industry, called the Piaggios, decided to address Italy’s needs for a more affordable and modern mode of transportation. Piaggio created the first scooter from spare aircraft parts that gave it a unique design from the front handlebars to the sound. The Vespa, which comes from the Italian word for “wasp,” was born.

The Vespa was presented to the public for the first time in 1946 at a golf club in Rome. After 11 years, one million were sold and the Vespa culture was created. People rode Vespas for a hobby and even for races, leading Vespa to develop several different models for people’s wants and needs.

In 1953, in the Hollywood film “Roman Holiday,” Audrey Hepburn made her big-screen debut. During a brief few minutes of the film, Hepburn’s character hopped on a Vespa and rode through the streets of Rome with the Hollywood flair any classy lady would. With the brief appearance came countless movie posters with a Roman cityscape backdrop and young Hepburn riding on the scooter's handlebars. After the release of the film, as a direct result, Vespa sold over 100,000 units. By 1962, around 60 movies had featured Vespas.

Off-screen, big stars like Marlon Brando, Dean Martin, and Charlton Heston were riding the little Italian scooter. The use in films and popularity among stars led to Vespa successfully selling four million scooters worldwide and being one of the most iconic transportation methods.

Vespa tried to launch a new model in America in 1983 but because U.S. federal emissions laws tightened up, the imports of Vespas ended. Then in 2001, Vespa returned to the American market positioned as a premium product. With a new modern style, the scooter became more convenient for Americans. Between 2001 and 2002, sales increased by 27%. “Vespa Boutiques” popped up all over the United States, which gave people a place to customize, buy, and service their scooters. They also sold T-shirts, watches, sunglasses, jackets, and helmets so people could dress in Vespa outfits.

Additionally, since the return of the scooter, Vespa has been featured in several movies and TV shows, including “Dirty Dancing: Havana Nights,” “Entourage,” “Veronica Mars,” “Ratatouille,” and “Big Bang Theory.”

With all the advertisements, including glamourous young women in chic style posing and riding through Rome and Audrey Hepburn’s debut 60 years ago, the iconic scooter has become one of the most desired ways of transportation for people worldwide. Taking a seat on one of the scooters brings people a sense of chicness and culture. A design including the Italian charm and culture, Vespas will be scooting through city streets all over the world for many years yet.

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O My.2! written by: Liesel Schmidt

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t’s happened to all of us: You’re with your partner, in the zone, and about to fall off the cliff. Hell, you’ve practically given them a roadmap for getting you there, and everything seems ideal. But somehow, even the perfect position, speed, and pressure just isn’t getting you off. So you try a little more: harder, faster, maybe even some different techniques you read about in the last issue of Cosmo. Still, the big O is suddenly as elusive as that pair of jeans that miraculously makes your butt look as spectacular as it did in high school.

Frustrated much?

Fortunately, there are ways to help you get back to that magical place where your orgasms aren’t on the endangered list. And no, it doesn’t require a body transplant. In fact, it’s as easy as a shot in the arm … only not, you know, in the arm.

Boasting the inspired name of the O-Shot, the procedure is, in fact, a shot that actually helps stimulate your body’s ability to reach orgasm.

So what exactly happens in this mind-blowing procedure?

Well, simple. Platelet rich plasma, or PRP, is injected around the clitoris and within the vaginal walls to increase sensitivity and sexual pleasure. The reason it works is that PRP is rich in growth platelets, which help stimulate blood flow and cell growth in the injection site. Et voila! Orgasm.

By now, you’re probably seeing some ray of hope shine through in your currently orgasm-less sex life. But where does the PRP come from, you ask? It’s all you, babe. Your blood contains PRP, whose growth platelets have been shown to be effective in treating a variety of concerns including hair loss, acne scarring, and wrinkles in addition to sexual health issues.

When PRP is injected into the vaginal walls, clitoris, or clitoral hood, the injection encourages blood flow and cell growth to the area. What that means for you, lady, is increased sensitivity during sex.

Before the treatment, blood is drawn from your arm and spun in a centrifuge to separate the platelet rich plasma from the red blood cells (Don’t faint now, girl, you’ve got too much to look forward to!) Once prepared, the PRP is injected around various erogenous zones — i.e., the clitoris and inner vaginal walls. After the injections have been performed, you’re all set to get back to your regular programming, including sexual intercourse.

And this is where we cue the “Hallelujah Chorus.” Or maybe just encourage to you call your honey and tell him to get ready for some toe-curling sex.

There are, of course, some things to know. Post-injection, you may experience a feeling of fullness within the vagina,

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though that should gradually resolve itself over the course of the next couple of days. Overall, the risks are minimal. “When performed by properly trained providers, the main risks are mild bleeding or spotting from the small injection site.

Although infection, bruising, and urinary retention are possible complications, these are exceedingly rare when performed by a trained, certified provider,” says Jerry D. Drinkard, ARNP, who co-owns JDCC Skincare in Pace, Florida, with his husband, Dr. Chris Croley, who also serves as Medical Director. Additional side effects may include continual awareness of injection sites, a sensation of constant arousal, persistent vaginal wetness, bruising, blood in the urine, a change in vaginal sensations, and over-active sex drive.

Naturally, the O-Shot does have some caveats. “Anyone with platelet or blood count problems, active infections, and pregnant patients are not candidates for this procedure,” says Drinkard, who has been giving the O-Shot to patients for almost a decade. “All patients should have a consultation to discuss their medical history with a licensed health care provider prior to undergoing this treatment to discuss risks and benefits. The ideal candidates are middle-aged females that are experiencing vaginal dryness, painful sex, stress incontinence, or any woman who may be experiencing trouble achieving orgasm. The benefits they see are increased lubrication, increased sensitivity, decreased stress incontinence, and enhanced sexual pleasure.”

Something else to keep in mind is that the shot has temporary effects. But hey, so does Botox; and this leads to a lot more fun. Also, there are some cases that will require more than one shot to help reach the ability to climax. “Many patients respond to their first treatment, but a few patients will need a second procedure; and very rarely, three treatments are necessary for the desired results,” says Drinkard. As for the temporary part, the treatment is safe enough to be repeated as needed, which is generally anywhere from six to 12 months.

That said, the success rate is phenomenal. “We often hear that patients are able to experience improvement in their intimate relationships and sex life, which is obviously important to most of our clients,” Drinkard contends. “This is one of the procedures that we perform that has high patient satisfaction rates.”

And we all know, satisfaction in sex is one of the keys to a happy relationship — on the part of both partners — which is why the P-Shot has been developed, using PRP injected into the penis to help with erectile dysfunction.

So what’s the takeaway? Your sex life is still one that you can take back, even if you thought you’d never experience that earth-shattering, clutch-at-anything-you-can-get-your-handson, breathtaking pleasure that comes from a good orgasm again. All it takes is one shot.

JDCC Skincare is located at 3637 US-90, Pace, FL 32577.

For more information, call 850.966.9099 or visit www.JDCCSkincare.com.

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N

ot all heroes wear capes, some wear fabulous heels.

Being a woman can be a difficult job. We are often expected to be everything to everyone. Work hard to reach your full potential in your career field, but also raise a family in-between. Make sure you meet all of your deadlines at work, but also bake a casserole and join a book club. While it may seem overwhelming to “do it all,” there are a few local women who seem to have it figured out. And, for that, they are my heroes; or should I say heroines. Malala Fund said, “I want every girl to know that her voice can change the world.” This group of women are bravely climbing to the top and making a difference in the lives of those around them.

In these articles we are raising a glass to some amazing women in our community. As successful businesswomen and entrepreneurs, these women are the examples that we need for our youth. Some are mothers, some are bosses, some are adventurous, some lead quietly from the sidelines, but there is one thing they all have in common — they are heroines. The leaders, the path blazers, the extraordinary women that always go a step above the rest.

A heroine is defined as a woman admired or idealized for her courage, outstanding achievements, or noble qualities.

These fearless women do that and more.

strong adventurous mothers daughters leaders bosses wives queens courageous loving fearless women

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| Heroines

Shelley Black Green Procedures, CEO written by: Emily Brink photography by: Kristina Wright

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elf-described as “bold, fearless, [and] ambitious,” Shelley Black was quite the handful for her mother; and to be honest, not much has changed in the years since. Although Shelley has Texas roots, she has lived in Florida for 33 years and calls Downtown Pensacola home. As the CEO of Green Procedures Inc., the Vice President of Grēnbots Inc., and the Cofounder of Bread and Table Club, Shelley happily wears multiple hats in her everyday life.

Her most treasured position, however, might be her role as a mother. Coming from a broken home, Shelley did not have the greatest example of how to build a cohesive family unit and never imagined she would end up being in a loving and lasting marriage with two children of her own. Within the first few years of their marriage, Shelley and her husband, Steve, endured the loss of their first child, two bed-ridden pregnancies, and the stress of trying to grow a small business. Those were certainly some makeit or break-it moments, but Shelley and Steve came out the other side with a strong bond that included their two children. That bond continues on today and only grows stronger as their family grows. This beautiful success story is easily Shelley’s proudest accomplishment. Being a mother is no easy task, let alone without the stress of being a business woman on top of it, but Shelley made it work.

When it comes to her professional life, Shelley finds a lot of her inspiration from her mother. While Shelley built her business, she relied heavily on her mother’s “unparalleled professionalism,” as well as some of the amazing women in the area who are always ready to lend a hand or even just a listening ear. It was through her involvement with the landscape and lawn mower companies that Shelley connected with individuals in the area who were in need and heard of ways to help those needs. These experiences

inspired Shelley and Steve to start the Bread and Table Club. The club’s whole purpose is to donate to Feeding the Gulf Coast’s Backpack Program which helps children access food outside of school-provided meals. They have raised thousands of dollars and have fed hundreds of children in Escambia County. In the next five years, Shelley and Steve will continue to grow this business by announcing more chapters along the Gulf Coast to help as many children as they can possibly reach!

Since the beginning of their relationship, Shelley’s husband has been her number one fan. The two met when Shelley was 19 so that is a long time of constant encouragement. This encouragement is a main source for the confidence Shelley has today when it comes to business and professional leadership positions. She never dreamed of owning her own business or being the CEO of a company, but through the curvy and bumpy roads, this is where she ended up. She is the person she is today because of all those wrong turns, unheeded caution signs, and off-road adventures. If she could tell herself anything, it would be “just don’t stop ... don’t stop playing, pretending, laughing, searching, exploring, reaching, and learning.”

Life often has unexpected plans, and while Shelley did not imagine her future as what it is today, she wouldn’t change a thing.

• Favorite Show to Binge Watch: I am a HUGE TCM fan! I keep all TVs on this channel throughout the day. Right now, I am obsessed with the films from the ‘30s and ‘40s. Anything starring Katherine Hepburn, Bette Davis, Olivia de Haviland, Ingrid Bergman, Barbara Stanwyck, Audrey Hepburn, Myrna Loy, and so many more amazing actresses, just makes me happy!

• Childhood Dream Job: According to my mom, as a child I wanted to be a truck driver and a belly dancer… Just pretty glad neither of those worked out for me!

• Favorite Dish to Cook: As most people know, Steve is the cook in the family. He’s very talented BUT, he works hard to keep everything extremely healthy! I appreciate this 99% of the time, but if you ask me what MY favorite dish to cook is I will always go back to my Texas roots … Bring on the chicken fried steak, mashed potatoes, Texas toast and WHITE gravy!

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| Heroines

Nogah Winfield

Assistant Marketing Director, Hotel Effie Sandestin written by: Emily Brink photography by: Dheron Winfield

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eing born with a name that literally means “brightness,” this heroine exudes that sentiment from her very being. Nogah Winfield is a hustler and knows how to go after what brings her purpose. Before settling in Niceville, Nogah lived in Philadelphia, New York City, and Fayetteville. Her husband’s military job has landed them near Eglin Airforce Base permanently. Their household includes their 2-year-old daughter and an au pair.

Although her degree is specifically in Fashion Marketing, Nogah fell in love with the marketing aspect during her various internships and now holds the title of Assistant Marketing Director at the Hotel Effie Sandestin where she works with local businesses to better hotel hospitality. She also owns a brand management company, In Brand Solutions, where she helps various businesses manage their social media and online platforms by identifying marketing initiatives to grow their business. She is also a local child care consultant for the federally managed program, “Cultural Care Au Pair,” where she helps foreign au pairs navigate a year in their new environment and country.

Together with her husband, Nogah also owns VOS Media which is a photography company specializing in product photography, automotive photography, 360 images, virtual tours, and more. That was FOUR official jobs, not including being a mother to her daughter Emri, the GOAT (greatest of all toddlers), as Nogah calls her.

As a woman who is constantly evolving to her environment, Nogah credits the woman she is right now to her experiences over the last two years. After the birth of her daughter, Nogah was diagnosed with Postpartum Depression (PPD) which was compounded by a new home, full-time job, and husband being deployed. Nogah was able to find an African American female therapist who was uniquely qualified to cater to Nogah’s needs and help begin to make sense of all that has

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happened throughout her life. With this therapist, as well as therapeutic properties found in writing, Nogah is able to confidently manage any lingering PPD and anxiety.

Powerful females are not new to Nogah because she grew up with two very influential figures close to her heart. Her mother created an environment for Nogah and her sister to experience a variety of different ideas which helped them be more accepting later on in life.

Whereas Nogah’s organizational skills and spiritual relationship with God come from her grandmother.

Another important character who played a major role in Nogah getting her current position is Danica Phillips (one of our very own heroines!). Danica sent Nogah the listing and pushed her to apply. So against her first reaction, Nogah submitted past work and went in for interviews for a position she now loves and excels in.

Nogah’s new philosophy, “you can’t achieve anything without trying first,” influenced her decision to apply for a job she (wrongly) felt she was not good enough for. And unsurprisingly, she has made herself indispensable in the position.

Motivating others and speaking positively led Nogah to also get certified as a Life Purpose Coach so she can keep leading people in positive directions. She uses this positive attitude as a support to spouses of military members, like those in her husband’s team’s Family Readiness Group,

• Go-to Cocktail: Lately, I have been loving lemon drop martinis! Anything tart and sweet is my jam.

• Currently Reading: “Super Brain” by Deepak Chopra and Rudolph E. Tanzi. It teaches you how to use the full potential of your brain and what separates the exceptional people from mediocre.

• Childhood Dream Job: Ironically, as a kid I loved the sitcom “Bewitched”. I always thought Darrin’s job at the advertising firm was so cool and dreamed of being an ‘executive.’ I always knew that I wanted to be doing something creative and working with cool and iconic brands. At one point, I also wanted to be an ice skater.

during difficult times such as deployment. Mentoring the next generation is an important aspect of her life.

If she could go back and talk to her 20-year-old self, Nogah would love to tell her “never ever let someone tell YOU who YOU are.” Women tend to give enough of themselves to others so it is important not to forget who they really are. Nogah’s parting remarks to herself would be, “You are a badass woman, I am proud of you, and there is absolutely nothing you can’t accomplish. Don’t forget that.” It is a good reminder from a good woman.

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| Heroines

Jane Bahr

Co-Founder, Children’s Volunteer Health Network written by: Emily Brink photography by: Shanna Magnuson

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e have all heard that old (are we calling 2004 old yet? Eek!) Tracy Lawrence song “Paint me a Birmingham” right? Well let’s go ahead and “paint a Jane Bahr” because this inspiring heroine was born right there in good ‘ol Birmingham, Alabama. Today, however, Jane resides in beautiful Seagrove Beach, Florida, and goes out of her way to make sure her community is served by her presence.

It was only 16 years ago when Jane got together with a few friends and decided to start a nonprofit organization. Today, this faithbased organization is known as the Children’s Volunteer Health Network, or CVHN. Its mission is to provide “children in need the opportunity to flourish by facilitating health and wellness services.” Jane and her team are able to provide dental and other services to uninsured children in Okaloosa and Walton counties. If you see a big blue bus parked somewhere that is where they are providing these services to the children in the community. They are kept pretty busy with their three dental hygienists operating this mobile clinic. In the next school year, CVHN is excited to roll out a new Mobile Dental Clinic with a pediatric dentist on board to help facilitate immediate dental work for these deserving children. None of this would be possible without the generous donations from so many in the community.

When Jane was just a little girl, her parents helped her build a strong foundation of independence, compassion, and generosity that continues to support her today.

Jane learned about giving from her strong, independent mother, and her nurturing father. They raised their family with a spirit of giving and

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taught Jane that “for those given much, much is expected.”

That guidance from her parents is something Jane holds dear still today.

Teachers are also a huge source of inspiration for Jane.

Mrs. Montgomery, Jane’s second grade teacher, taught her class everyday not to be afraid of taking risks. Jane remembers her telling them to never give up on their dreams and to dream big. Well, Jane certainly took that to heart, as well as infusing her own mentoring positions with this idea. It is hard to say for sure the kind of impact one has as a leader, but Jane hopes that those who have been under her tutelage took her advice and example, mixed it with their own ideas, and perpetuates them into leading another person. It is a beautiful cycle of leading the leaders as we all become leaders in our own way.

“Life is loud, fun, and full” for Jane and her family.

When she married her husband, Greg, he brought with him two children who accepted Jane as their stepmother and changed her life in the best of ways. Their family continues to grow with a son-in-law, a daughter-in-law, and four beloved grandchildren. Jane’s motto is to “laugh a lot, especially at yourself.” She tries everyday to embrace each individual moment and cherish life to the fullest. Jane loves spending time with her family and friends and will never stop exploring. She hopes to continue benefiting the children with her nonprofit and to enjoy every minute of it.

To learn more about her organization, visit CVHNKIDS.org.

• Last Google Search: Villas in Tuscany • Go-to Cocktail: Any Thompson 31Fifty Wine’s, especially Cicero & Succession.

• Fashion Icon: Coco Chanel.

• Currently Reading: Carrie Sue’s Diary by Seagrove Beach

author Sandy Semerad.

• The Beach or The Pool: The beach.

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| Heroines

Megan Harrison

President and CEO of the Walton Area Chamber of Commerce written by: Emily Brink photography by: Shanna Magnuson

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he old adage, “you get out of life what you put into it,” is something this heroine knows all too well. Megan Richards Harrison learned the value of hard work early on with examples from determined parents and ambitious older sisters.

Growing up in DeFuniak Springs, Megan’s parents taught her a system to get the maximum momentum out of every success they experienced.

They like to call it the “celebrateevaluate-elevate” method. Every time someone had a win, the Richards family would celebrate it, of course.

But, following the celebration period, it was time to evaluate the process, including the good things and the ways to improve. Next, they turned that into elevating the next win to an even bigger and better one!

This system helped Megan her whole life and has led her to her current position as the President and CEO of the Walton Area Chamber of Commerce. She also serves on the Northwest Florida Chapter Board of Directors for the Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association, the Advisory Board for Ascension Sacred Heart Emerald Coast, the Scenic Walton Board, the North Walton Tourist Advisory Committee, the Board of Directors for the Florida Association of Chamber Professionals, as a South Walton Little League T-ball Coach, and soonto-be President of the Emerald Coast Gator Club. (Phew! That is certainly a long list!)

One of the many reasons Megan wanted to be so involved with her community is to help the upcoming generations find success.

As the proud mother of two young boys, Megan hopes to provide

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opportunities for them to build fantastic careers in the area, should they so choose, and to do the same for other future leaders of Walton County. And, she does not plan on stopping anytime soon. In the next five years, Megan wants to continue adding to the list of boards and organizations she has contributed to over her lifetime in an effort to invest in her community through true servant leadership.

Boss ladies always have another boss lady they look up to, and in Megan’s case it is her older sister, Emilee. In her 20+ year career with Johnson & Johnson, Emilee has blazed countless trails all while being an amazing mother to her four boys, an unpredictable and spontaneous person, and a loving sister. Megan wants to be just like her when she grows up. Both Megan and Emilee had an incredible example to follow in their mother. When Megan was 9 years old, her mother transitioned from a government job to a successful business owner. She has learned, grown, and led within her community for the last 30 years, just like Megan is doing now. Females leading and supporting females is what we like to see!

• Last Google Search: The recipe for the dinner I prepped so I could send my husband the directions for how to cook it. It takes a village around our house!

• Go-to Cocktail: Prosecco with Raspberry Lemonade or ice-cold Bud Lights on the boat. I’m a simple gal, really!

• Ultimate Guilty Pleasure: A day at the spa with at least a 90-minute massage. I wish I could go weekly! I also LOVE getting to watch Florida Gator football in The SWAMP! • Childhood Dream Job: Meteorologist! I wanted to become a hurricane specialist and work for The Weather Channel! To this day, I’m still borderline obsessed with the weather.

• Soundtrack to Your Life: An absolute melting pot of jams including anything that you can sing at the top of your lungs! It’s a mystery when you get in my car if you’ll catch me listening to sports talk radio, praise and worship, today’s hits, classic rock, ‘70s, country, rap, or yacht rock! Tina Turner’s “Proud Mary” is my signature karaoke song, but I have an affinity for ‘90s rap (specifically Snoop Dogg) and string instrument covers of hits from the last three decades (hello, Vitamin String Quartet!).

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| Heroines

Kim Parker

Director of Children’s Ministry, Destin United Methodist Church written by: Emily Brink photography by: Mary Aho

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or some people, finding the thing they are meant to do with their life feels like trying to find a needle in a haystack. For others however, it feels like walking down a clearly defined path that leads them right where they are meant to be. This is how the lovely Kim Parker came to be the Director of Children’s Ministry at the Destin United Methodist Church. Kim was born in Guam and raised right here in Destin, Florida, and found her way right into this life almost as if she was called to it. Historically speaking, ministry has been a male-dominated field, so it truly is heartwarming to see more women stepping into leadership roles in churches.

Just because her path may have led her right where she needed to be does not mean it was an easy one. Kim has had her fair share of trials and tribulations, but in one way or another this helps her excel more in her job. The reason Kim is so passionate and happy with her job is because she gets to teach little children about Jesus all day long! She spent her life growing up around amazing female influences and learning nurturing and teaching strategies in order to become the natural that she is today. Some of these influences were mothering figures like her mom and her friends’ moms. But some of these influences did not show up until later in life because they were taking time to learn themselves. Kim’s daughters have become important female influences in her life because as they have grown they have turned into amazing young women who are great examples in their everyday lives.

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During the more formative years of her life, Kim learned to truly rely on God and to create a relationship with him that has been her foundation for years and years now. Kim has always had a spot in her heart for the “littles,” as she calls them, so being able to spend her day teaching them about something so beneficial leaves her feeling fulfilled.

Being a mother is one of Kim’s proudest accomplishments.

She tries her best to lead and teach all children she gets to know with grace and encouragement. She also hopes to bestow a feeling of self-worth in the hearts of those children, both the ones she birthed and the ones she did not!

Continuing forward, Kim will do her best everyday to spread joy and kindness to whomever she encounters. She believes that if she can change the life of just one person, that person will go on to create a sort of ripple effect into the world — one good thing after another. Kim’s best life advice would be to not sweat the small stuff because in the end it doesn’t really matter. Life is meant to be enjoyed not endured. So when the time is right, it is okay to let loose and not ALWAYS have to be so responsible. Kim will continue blessing the lives of her congregation day in and day out and help spread God’s message to love one another despite everyone’s differences, every chance she gets.

• Last Google Search: DisneyWorld.com • Dream Vacation: Although the ULTIMATE Disney trip would be up there, my dream is to return to Guam, where I was born. It is so beautiful!

• Ultimate Guilty Pleasure: Binge watching “90 Day Fiancé” • Favorite Disney Princess: Belle ... She falls in love with the beast despite his outward appearance! I love that about her. My fav character is Tinkerbelle!

• Childhood Dream Job: I wanted to own a pet shop.

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en — can’t live with them, can’t live without them.

But luckily we’ve found a few good men! Leaders, mentors, partners, gentlemen. There are approximately 161.6 million men in the United States. That’s a big number, but all we need is a few good men to make a difference. We are lucky that the Emerald Coast has as many good men as they do palm trees. Our area is booming with strong male role models helping to lead the way and to guide the younger generations down the right path. These men are out there in our community making a real difference. They are running businesses, they are volunteering, they are working at the local nonprofits, they are fathers, and they are husbands. These men are juggling all of these jobs and are doing it with style and grace. Being a good man is more than just following the rules, it’s being the individual who goes above and beyond.

It’s being the man who isn’t afraid to stand up for what is right. A truly good man is one whose traits perfectly balance out. He is both strong and sensitive, he is a leader but can also take direction. A good man is someone you can look up to.

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dependable fathers strong sons leaders brothers husbands courageous loving understanding fearless men

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| A Few Good Men

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Jason Leon Lindblad

Owner and Gallery Director, J.Leon Gallery + Studio written by: Emily Brink photography by: Frances Roy Agency

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eeding their creative side is something few people make time for anymore, which is such a shame! Jason Leon Lindbald recognizes this and gives some great advice to his younger self: “Fulfill your passionate side. Don’t ignore it, or you’ll lose it.” As the Owner and Gallery Director for J.Leon Gallery + Studio, Jason has been able to fulfill his passionate side and really work it into his career as an artist. Jason was born in Paducah, Kentucky, but now lives and operates a business here in Destin, Florida. His goal is to bring art to the area and to give artists a place to grow and thrive with like-minded individuals.

High school art teachers are such a hidden gem in society.

Jason can attest to this reflecting on his art mentor, Ruth Baggett, who was his high school art teacher. Being Jason’s “art mom,” Ruth inspired him to get involved with the art community and to go on to open his own art gallery.

She always encourages him with unconditional love and support as he continues improving and succeeding.

Seeing the influence the Foster Gallery had on people in the area, as well as the influence of out-of-town friends, Jason jumped at the opportunity to open J.Leon Gallery + Studio when the chance came. He believes that simply interacting with creative people will generate expressive energy that needs to be shared with the world. Seeing the expressiveness in individuals is one of his favorite parts of being a gallery owner because he then gets to share that with his community and patrons.

Previous to the achievement of opening his own art gallery, Jason worked with GameStop for 17 years. While there, he helped to develop new teams and stores. He

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trained these teams for success by bringing the lowest performing stores to top positions in the surrounding region. He looks back at his time working there and only sees dedication and adventure. He was a teenager when he started there so being able to continue on for so long then transition into owning his own art gallery is something Jason is especially proud of. This spirit of dedication and hard work stems from his mother, Shawn Tomasello. She taught him to never give up and impressed upon him the idea of always being true to himself and finding the strength to carry on even when it is hard.

Jason’s grandmother, Virginia Lindblad, helped him learn the value of being unique. As an artist, being unique is invaluable so you can stand out against the other artists and show the world your style.

In the next five years, Jason has no plans of slowing down. He and his family are currently involved in multiple local art foundations like the Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation, Cultural Arts Alliance of Walton County, and Sinfonia. He continues promoting local artists by giving them a place to gather and create somewhere people can actually appreciate their work. Every month, J.Leon Gallery hosts a “Sip-nStroll” night where guests are encouraged to create and appreciate other artist’s pieces. Jason tries to give back to his community through charity events that will continue to bring art to the community, as well as give artists the space to fully express themselves. A community is never really complete unless the more creative side of humanity has the ability to flourish.

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| A Few Good Men

Aaron King Vaughn

Coordinator of Education and Community Outreach, Sinfonia Gulf Coast written by: Emily Brink photography by: Raphye Alexius

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et’s think back to our elementary school days for a minute. It is a random Tuesday morning and your third grade teacher tells you about an assembly happening after recess. Remember the buzz that permeated the room and made your legs bounce in anticipation? After recess, you line up in alphabetical order, shuffle into the gym, and sit criss-cross-applesauce with your knees pressed into the back of the person in front of you. Amidst the excited conversations reverberating from wall to wall, you can hear the distinct noise of sound equipment being adjusted and instruments being tuned. The lights dim and you and your classmates are swept away into a world of live music that is usually reserved for adults.

Creating experiences just like that is what Aaron King Vaughn gets to do for children all over the area. Aaron is currently employed as the Coordinator of Education and Community Outreach by the Sinfonia Gulf Coast. He is also the Music Director for the Sinfonia Youth Orchestras.

Aaron and his team coordinate musicians with the local elementary and middle schools to bring guest artists to perform concerts at the schools. So far, they have impacted 1,500 students with the program. Over the next five years, he plans to bring this program to even more disadvantaged communities and schools such as Children in Crisis, Emerald Coast Autism Center, the disabled, and low socioeconomic communities of color. Bringing the arts to the children is so important, especially to those who end up falling in love with the mode of expression.

Although Aaron resides in Crestview, Tallahassee was where his love for music began. He was born in Tallahassee and later attended The Florida State University College of Music where he earned his Master’s in Orchestral Conducting. His love for music and conducting has been with Aaron since he was in high school. After graduation, he studyied Music Education in hopes of teaching high school orchestra. He has always loved working with kids and really appreciates the opportunity to give back to the community and invest in the upcoming generation on an everyday basis. He has also taught private lessons and worked with various other youth orchestras before accepting his current position. Aaron knew what he wanted from an early age and went after each opportunity to help him find that purpose in life.

As a former teacher, Aaron had plenty of opportunity to

refine his leadership skills and to learn how students and individuals respond best to his instruction. He always tries to give clear directions and set clear expectations while still being respectful and considerate of the individual. This has continued to serve him in his career today. Someone that also helps support him everyday is his mother. She is his greatest female influence who has truly shaped the person Aaron is today. We would be nowhere without our mothers, and the advice they impart on us. If Aaron could tell his 20-year-old self any advice, it would be to just enjoy the moment. Sometimes we get so caught up in the destination or the idea of tomorrow that we forget to appreciate the present.

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A Few Good Men |

Bradley Sanders

Public Relations and Events Manager at Gulf Coast Kid’s House written by: Emily Brink photography by: Alex Horne

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global pandemic and shutdown was hard for everyone, but perhaps it was the worst for those individuals who were stuck inside with their abusers. Bradley Sanders and his team at the Gulf Coast Kid’s House (GCKH) worked 24/7 throughout this difficult time to help the children of Escambia County and the surrounding regions get the help they needed, especially when it came to those in abusive situations. Escambia County ranks fourth in Florida for cases of child abuse and GCKH sees some of the most egregious child abuse cases. They provide services and programs to more than 3,000 victims of child abuse annually. Truly a shining star in the lives of the affected children.

Born and raised here in Pensacola, Bradley is so happy to be doing his part in his community and being able to serve alongside some truly amazing women. He is currently the Public Relations & Events Manager with GCKH. He got his start when Megan Chapman and Stacey Kostevicki took a chance on him by giving him an internship then a fulltime position. These women are Bradley’s greatest female

influences because they cultivated and taught him valuable life and career skills that otherwise would have taken him a lifetime to learn. Working with GCKH was an integral part of his undergrad at the University of West Florida and Megan and Stacey encouraged him to network and connect with the community outside of the office. These practices led Bradley to some of his closest friends, unforgettable memories, and doing his best to better this world.

In addition to his vital roles at GCKH, Bradley serves as the Vice President of Professional Development for Pensacola Young Professionals (PYP), is a member of the Association of Fundraising Professionals Pensacola Chapter and Brunch League, as well as a volunteer with Manna Food Pantries and Onbikes Pensacola. Serving on the Board of PYP has been a truly rewarding experience for Bradley. He gets to be a small part of community initiatives such as passing the Escambia Children’s Trust in 2020, as well as pressing to remove the Confederate monument in downtown Pensacola.

As part of his work with GCKH, Bradley creates ambassadors to represent the mission and brand of GCKH in the community. He does his best to create unique relationships with those he leads and help them succeed in their positions. One of his most asked questions is how to best network in their area. His answer is always to get involved in local organizations. In those organizations you can find like-minded people who can help you grow professionally, but perhaps more importantly, personally.

Looking back, Bradley is so proud of his professional accomplishments. While they have advanced his career, he has more importantly been able to create an outlet to do good within the community. He is proud of being able to work through the pandemic and of the creative solutions his team came up with in order to best serve the children in danger. His 20-year-old self would be proud of who he is today. Bradley wishes he could tell his younger self to “embrace being you.” Authenticity will get you so much further in life than being someone you are not.

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Long Live

Queen.2s

the

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ost people are familiar with the term “drag queen,” but it’s still kind of a mysterious thing — and really, where did it get its name?

The history of drag is as long and colorful as the queens themselves, one that goes way back to the times of the Bard himself, when men were the only ones allowed to act on stage — which meant they also played the roles of women, fully decked out in the dresses of the day. Those dresses dragged on the ground, hence the phrase “in drag.”

As time went on, so did the iterations of drag — and by the 1880s, the drag culture had begun to make its way to America, when the first self-proclaimed “queen of drag,” William Dorsey Swann, began hosting drag balls in Washington, D.C. Later, Vaudeville acts during the late 1800s and early 1900s developed “prima donnas” who were more elegant and refined without shedding their comedic persona. The prima donnas took inspiration from both American and European cross-dressing shows; and soon, the popularity of these prima donnas took them to great success, even onto Broadway.

By the 1980s, there was a marked increase in the public appearances of drag queens in New York City which, of course, influenced the rest of the country.

Cities across the nation began offering drag shows at more and more bars, and Pensacola followed suit. At the time, however, only a few of the gay bars in the city hosted drag shows. There hadn’t yet come a time for drag to become an actual career — but that time would eventually come.

By the late 1990s, Pensacola’s drag culture had found its place at Emerald City, which was the last incarnation of an old building on Wright Street. A bar called The Office in a previous life, it had a history with the drag crowd; but it wasn’t until Emerald City’s bright lights

Champagne Munroe photography provided by: Champagne Munroe

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went on in 1997 that things truly took off. It became the largest — and the most popular — place for drag shows, though other bars around the city including The Roundup and The Cabaret also hosted shows. Interestingly, each of the different venues offered different vibes that catered to different tastes: Emerald City was theatrical production, The Roundup had a penchant for leather, and The Cabaret tended toward the more casual type of show.

As the success of Emerald City grew, so did its physical footprint. By 2016, however, it had seen a steep decline in business that led to the stuttering of its doors forever. Even so, drag shows are still a part of Pensacola’s colorful cultural scene. Multiple venues offer smaller shows, and the number of shows and venues has increased dramatically over the past few decades. And while the time of bars like Emerald City may be in the past, people can now find shows even more easily, from old classic shows at The Cabaret to new shows being hosted at unexpected places like Dolce and Gelato.

As much as drag may have changed over the years, there is something that remains the same: sense of community.

For the many men who express themselves through drag, there is an almost family-like dynamic created, a safe place where they feel loved and, of course, beautiful — not to mention the most fabulous version of themselves.

“What drag gives me is an outlet for self-expression by creating a character that's my own and the chance to live out my performing fantasy. It’s also a cute side hustle,” says Champagne Munroe, the “Queen of Quirk,” whose home bar is B-Bob's in downtown Mobile, though she has performed all over the Gulf Coast. A drag queen for the past seven years, Champagne found it to be a natural progression, something that

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Miss Cie

photography by: Lisa Warren Photography

photography by: Lisa Warren Photography

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evolved from her love of performing — first in choirs when she was a kid to theater in high school and college, then going to an amateur night one Thursday night. “When performing, I'm a bit of a wild card because you never really know what you're going to get. Mostly, I do dance music, something with a good beat and high energy. I try to perform different songs each time, and the range of songs is expansive.”

That self-expression is an important part of drag. “I use it as a way to cope and express my feelings,” says Kendyll Michaels, whose stage name was inspired by a Demi Lovato song and has changed multiple times over the past five years of her existence to fit the times. “I’ve always enjoyed watching drag shows, and one day I finally tried it.”

For many, like Kendyll and Champagne, the journey is still a relatively new one. For others, it has long been a part of their lives. “This year marks 40 years that I’ve been performing drag,” says Miss Cie, who chose the name based on a nickname she was given at a young age because of her last name. “I became interested in drag, and when I was young, sneaking into gay bars, watching local drag performances.

There’s no way for me to explain what I get out of doing it. There are no words.

All I can tell you is that it’s been a magical fairytale. All of the people in my life react with love and support and cheer me on. They always have, including my family. As far as how it affects my social life, people are usually very excited when they find out that I’m Miss Cie. I say that with great pride and humility,” says the performer, whose home turf is B-Bob's in Mobile, though she has made special appearances all along the Gulf Coast as well as New York and LA. “I am, as they say, a local legend.”

“Drag has affected my life in such a positive way,” agrees Kendyll, who is on

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photography by: Jennifer Englert

Kendyll Michaels

cast at The Cabaret in Pensacola. “It has helped me figure out more about who I am and helped me cope with many obstacles in my life — not to mention all of the friendships that I have fostered in the community. I have honestly not had many negative reactions, thankfully.”

As positive an experience as it can be for many of the men in the drag community, it does pose challenges.

“I've never been told to my face, but I wouldn't be surprised if drag was a reason that boys don't try to get with me,” notes Champagne, whose name is a combination of the color of her first car, a golden-bronze '98 Honda Accord, and Ororo Munroe, Storm from X-men.

“Sometimes, drag does cut into hangingout time with friends and family; but I try to make it work, even if it's just showing up for a few hours to show my face or hug people's necks. Still, drag has taken me to places I probably never would have been in my life. I've met some incredible people and fostered close friends because of drag. It's also helped stabilize me where I'm at in life, and most everyone is really supportive.”

photography by: Jennifer Englert

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What’s your favorite cocktail?

We Had to Ask...

Champagne: Whatever the bartender makes me! But if the bartender isn't really a "mixologist," a Tito’s and Red Bull will do just fine. Or a shot of tequila with a pineapple back.

Kendyll: Peach Long Island Iced Tea. Miss Cie: I don’t really like the taste of alcohol, so I usually prefer a glass of champagne.

What’s your favorite hype song?

Champagne: I have five: “Applause” by Lady Gaga, “Dog Days” by Florence and the Machine, “Super Bass” by Nicki Minaj, “Break Free” by Ariana Grande, and “I Wanna Dance with Somebody” by Whitney Houston.

Kendyll: “Toxic” by Britney Spears.

Miss Cie: I don’t have one particular hype song, but I do have so many songs that people associate with me. One of my alltime favorites is the 4 Non Blondes song called “What’s Up.”

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Who is your drag icon?

What is your favorite drag memory?

Champagne: I don't really have a drag icon. I do admire and hold my drag family, The Wakettes, dearly. They keep me grounded.

Champagne: Probably the first Drag Queen Story Hour I did. My sister Khloe Kash and I were the first queens to read to kids in Alabama. There were like 300 people and their kids there in support. It was just an amazing gay moment in my life.

Kendyll: Dee Ranged, Mimi Marks, Jazelle Barbie Royal, and so many others!

Miss Cie: My drag icons are Tiffany Arieagus, Amy DeMilo, Sasha Colby, Venus Shante DaVis.

What is your go-to eyeshadow palette?

Champagne: The James Charles Morphe palette. I just like that it has all the colors and gradients of those colors in one palette. I was also gifted some Juvia palettes. The Nubian has been good for contouring highlighting, and the Masquerade has some cute colors, too.

Kendyll: The countless opportunities from those around me that help me continuously grow!

Miss Cie: When I worked and performed at the Office on Wright Street in Pensacola there was a Memorial Day performance. The staging had been moved outdoors because of the expected crowd of people. While I was performing “What’s Up,” the people were all waving their hands in the air and singing along for several city blocks.

It was pretty magical under the moon and stars. It was spiritual.

Kendyll: Morphe X James Charles. It has so many colors!

Miss Cie: Urban Decay.

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| Tour of Homes Pensacola

Stiffy’s Sandbar

article + photography by: Jessica Duncan, Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Main Street Properties

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s Covid covered the nation, homeowners started raiding the home improvement stores and using free time to improve their homes. One of the largest focuses of this home improvement frenzy was outdoor living areas. Many homeowners thought since they were spending so much time at home it was time to start transforming their outdoor space from a basic backyard into a piece of paradise.

Luckily for Chad and Christina Stifflemire, they were ahead of this Covid real estate curve. While they never could have predicted a pandemic, when building their home in 2018 they set a goal of creating a backyard paradise for friends and family to enjoy. A place that could be used for all seasons, not just during the summer months. This backyard paradise even has a name, “Stiffy’s Sandbar.” The backyard vision was designed before the home construction phase began. This allowed the cohesiveness of the entire property.

It’s apparent it was not an afterthought. Instead, it was a part of the vision for their home from day one. After they built the home of their dreams, they spent the next year working on “Stiffy’s Sandbar.”

As you walk through the inside bar area and out of the large sliding doors into the backyard, the house flows onto the enormous pool deck. You quickly feel relaxed once your eyes focus on the stone waterfall streaming into the pool. This pool gives a refreshing

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invite to dive into the sparkling blue water — the perfect oasis to cool off on those hot summer days.

Across the pool there is a paver sundeck area for lounging. This is the perfect spot to wind down with a cocktail after a long day or soak up sun rays before swimming. For cooler nights, they built a paver patio with a block fire pit. It’s a cozy spot for curling up in a blanket while sipping on a hot toddy and watching the fire dance. While warming up by the fire they can enjoy the view created by the pool lights, landscape accent lighting, and perfectly placed palm trees. There is a cabana bar that overlooks the entire backyard with plenty of seating. A large TV hangs as a center focal point to ensure all major sporting events are not missed. Chad and Christina finished the cabana off with an outdoor kitchen equipped to cook for a crowd. The outside fridge chills the beer, 55

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while the large ice maker and stocked bar create the cocktails that keep the party going into the night.

The goal of “Stiffy’s Sandbar” was to create a place for friends and family to enjoy throughout all seasons, and it was undoubtedly achieved. Its open and welcoming atmosphere creates the opportunity to make memories that will last a lifetime. Christina reminds neighbors and friends alike, “If the lights are on, come join us.” I have had the opportunity to enjoy this backyard paradise for many events, ranging from a retirement party to holiday cookouts.

The environment filled with laughter and beautiful scenery never disappoints.

Whether attending a large party, a few girlfriends hanging by the fire, or the guys watching the game, “Stiffy’s Sandbar” is a place of enjoyment that leaves you wondering how you could create your own backyard paradise. www.ScarlettMag.com

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Jessica Duncan Real Estate Agent Jessica Duncan, an award-winning, top-producing Realtor with Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Main Street Properties, is driven by a passion for providing the highest level of service with integrity to clients in her hometown.

Jessica was born and raised in Pensacola, educated at the University of West Florida, and is deeply rooted in her community. She has a Bachelor of Science in Marketing and Finance and prides herself in being innovative in real estate sales and marketing strategies, a skillset sharpened through twelve years in the corporate arena as a marketing strategist.

In addition to real estate, Jessica is passionate about serving her community through several area nonprofits and is a proud board member of IMPACT 100 Pensacola Bay Area, an all-women philanthropic organization.

1313 Creighton Rd Pensacola, 32504 850.554.1783 If you’d like to recommend a home to be featured, email Jessica at Jessica@JessicaLoveDuncan.com.

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| Let's Get Physical

Every Body is a

Beach Body

W.3orkout with

Corie Black written by: Mary Aho / photograhy by: Mason Brunner

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t’s FINALLY summer, and we are all ready for a vacation. Everyone always says they will work out while on vacation, but the reality is we usually don’t have the time or the equipment needed to do so! This issue, our trainer has put together a quick, simple, minimal equipment workout perfect for any hotel room for you to stay on track during your next vacation. So, grab your resistance bands, a bottle of water, and crush this vacationfriendly workout!

Warmup 20 squats 10 and 10 lunge forward and backward 10 and 10 kicks 10 and 10 airplane 15 banded bicep curls 10 squat jumps

Kicks

squats

Lunges 59

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airplane

Stretching is a great postworkout cooldown Banded bicep curls www.ScarlettMag.com

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workout Do 3-4 rounds of each: 20 hindu squats (on toes) 15 pushups 30 backward walking lunges 15-20 bench dips 25 jackknives

Squat Jumps

s

pushups

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Bench Dips For more workout info, visit Zoltan (Zoli) Nagy at Beyond Fit, located at 805 Harbor Blvd, Destin.

Jackknives www.ScarlettMag.com

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| About Face

B.2ut First,

Sunscreen.2 written by: Courtney Murray

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icture yourself laying in the backyard, sipping a cold soda with sparkling skin lathered in baby oil, and holding a shiny silver shield beaming sun back onto your hot skin. Thank goodness we’ve improved on the skin protection front since the 1960s! In today’s society, we are constantly bombarded by messages pushing us to “remain young forever.” With every product, including something anti-aging, promoting less wrinkles, tighter skin, smaller pores, and the list goes on and on; it can feel like you’re fighting an uphill battle.

You can pile on all the creams and serums, but the number one way to prevent skin damage is to stay out of the sun.

However, living in Florida that is next to impossible; so enters the unsung hero of sunscreen. Think of your sunscreen like clothing; while you won’t be arrested for not wearing it, you shouldn’t leave the house without it on. When applying skin care products you should go from thinnest to thickest, but sunscreen should always be applied last. Applying products on top of sunscreen could break down the SPF and render

it ineffective, so you want that layer of protection from the sun and other environmental stressors on the outside. Stacie Senn is a Licensed Aesthetician and Aesthetician Trainer for Aqua Medical Spa and is a guru when it comes to skin care.

All sunscreens are not created equal. “The skin on our faces, neck, ears, and chest is typically more delicate than the skin on other areas of our bodies and requires a little extra attention,” she described. “Sunscreens formulated specifically for the face have taken this into consideration and these are the ones I generally recommend. Also, physical, mineral-based sunscreens are my choice for these areas, especially to my clients with sensitive skin or who have just received aggressive treatments.

Typically, there is less irritation associated with physical sunscreens versus chemical ones.” And the numbers matter.

Stacie recommends a minimum SPF 30 for DAILY wear and higher if you are participating in activities that have you in direct sunlight.

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Q: How much product should you be using when it comes to sunscreen?

A: If you’re using a lotion-type sunscreen, a nickel-size amount is the general rule for facial sunscreens and a golf ball-size amount for the body; more if needed for even coverage.

Spray sunscreen is a little trickier, especially if it is clear. Don’t forget your neck, ears, back of hands, and tops of feet!

Q: Is sunscreen specifically marketed for kids and babies different?

Stacie knows skin care like the perfectly moisturized back of her hand and recommends SuzanObagiMD™ Physical Defense Tinted SPF 50 for its powerful antioxidants that protect skin from damage and photoaging. It is also mineral based and tinted and gentle enough for the most sensitive skin. SkinCeuticals Triple Lipid 2:4:2 is her other go-to product. “This nourishing, restorative cream is a favorite because it has multiple benefits in just one product,” she described. “It helps replenish essential skin lipids necessary to support a healthy skin barrier which, in turn, improves the appearance of skin fullness, smoothness, and radiance. It also improves skin dryness and increases skin’s tolerance to retinoids.” Today’s market is completely saturated with beauty products with many incorporating skin care ingredients; but your makeup is only as beautiful as the skin underneath. “It should be noted that the percentages of ingredients in these products does not necessarily substitute for the more beneficial percentages found in clinical and professional strength skin care products,” said Stacie. “Instead, they should be viewed as an enhancement to a professionally selected skin care regimen.”

It’s Sunday Funday and let’s say that you’re going to an outdoor brunch. You’ve already applied your sunscreen and a full face of makeup and now it’s time for reapplication. There are now powder SPF products that even come in tinted colors and convenient to go forms for a touch up and a little oil absorption at the same time.

When you search for sunscreens online or walk into Target it can be overwhelming; so it’s best to-go with the advice of an expert like Stacie. “With the advancements in science and the known consequences of UV exposure, there are now so many choices in sun protection. Tinted/untinted? Physical/chemical? Matte finish/dewy finish? Are you oily/acneic/dry/sensitive? Basically, sunscreen choice comes down to preference, and again the best sunscreen is the one you will wear,” she said. “However, my two non-negotiables are that they must be a minimum SPF 30, and they must be broad-spectrum.” If you’re ever in doubt that your sunscreen isn’t enough, a cute wide brimmed hat is a perfect addition.

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A: Not necessarily. Most “kid/ baby” sunscreens include the same ingredients as adult sunscreens but with cuter packaging. Because of the controversy surrounding chemical sunscreens, though, I would recommend sticking to broadspectrum, physical, water-resistant sunscreens for the littles.

Q: How often should you reapply sunscreen?

A: Every two hours, more often if you are sweating, in water, or toweling off.

Q: Which is better — spray vs cream sunscreen?

A: As protection goes, both are effective. Creams generally provide more even protection as they are more easily seen while being applied and don’t blow away in the wind!

Aqua Medical Spa 82 Mack Bayou Loop, Santa Rosa Beach 850.608.3050 www.AquaMedicalSpa.com

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Close-up with

Power Up Watersports written by: Liesel Schmidt photograhy provided by: Power Up Watersports

850.461.1034 1201 A Miracle Strip Pkwy SE, Fort Walton Beach www.PowerUpWatersports.com

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ater activities can be an expensive hobby to pursue, which often puts them out of the realm of possibility for many people. Add to that the cost of buying and maintaining the equipment, the hassle of storing it, and lugging it from Point A to Point B, and you have the perfect formula for sinking those dreams of becoming an avid watersports enthusiast faster than a deflated dinghy weighted down with a rock.

For people like Ben and Amber Merrell and Ben’s parents, Derek Gross and Elizabeth Merrell Gross, however, those obstacles were an inspiration rather than a complication. And combined with their own passion for all things water-related, a simple vision gave rise to a business concept centered on offering every type of water activity to those who might otherwise never experience the thrill for themselves.

Splashing onto the scene in January 2012, Power Up Watersports is carving out a niche for itself with all it has to offer. It provides a combination of guided excursions including sunset cruises, dolphin cruises, and Crab Island excursions, as well as rentals of pontoon boats and jet skis. As

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a family of owners who have a long history in the area, they know all that the Emerald Coast has to offer and provide their customers that expertise.

It’s one of the secrets to their success — as is their customer service. “People know that when they come to Power Up, they’re going to find a friendly atmosphere, smiling faces, and an overall good time!” says Amber, who is also actively involved in Impact100.

A large part of the dynamic comes from the fact that the business is family-owned, by owners who are active in day-to-day operations. “We like to think that you get a quality experience and customer service at the highest level when visiting Power Up Watersports,” says Ben, who was also the 2016 World Hydroflight Champion. Until recently, Power Up offered hydroflight, a fact that the company credits as a great catalyst to their success.

The other factor in their ability to thrive? They credit that to the people. “Having a family dynamic from within and amazing employees has really been crucial,” says Amber. Ben’s brother, Joey, is Acting Manager, while both of Ben’s sisters also work at Power Up, as Social Media Director and Amber’s Personal Assistant. “We make it a point to listen to our employees when they talk about logistics and their ideas in regard to the business as well, and that builds a sense of unity,” Amber adds.

Naturally, as lovers of the water themselves, both families enjoy the opportunity to share that love with other people through their company.

They also appreciate how working together gives them more time with one another. Still, there are challenges. “Growth has been a big challenge,” says Amber. “The logistics of running an operation the size of Power Up means making sure that we have enough staff, making sure there’s room for all the equipment, and keeping up with maintenance.

That’s a lot of balls to keep in the air.”

Like the rest of the world, Power Up had to navigate the pandemic over the past year, but out of adversity came amazing things for the company.

“COVID affected us kind of in a reverse way,” Amber notes. “Because our governor was able to keep our state open, we saw a huge influx of people and an increase in business. We were preparing for a shutdown and then actually found ourselves experiencing growth. Because of our amazing staff, we were able to stay open through everything.”

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Cover to revo C Who doesn’t love to curl up with a good book? They’re the perfect excuse to snuggle under your favorite blanket, sink into your favorite chair, or relax in your favorite nook, and get lost in a different world. We’re always up for a new adventure, so whether your genre of choice is romance, self-help, history, or mystery, this list has something for everyone. book picks by: Mary Aho / reviews by: Amazon.com

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The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo

28 Summers

by Taylor Jenkins Reid

by Elin Hilderbrand

Aging and reclusive Hollywood movie icon Evelyn Hugo is finally ready to tell the truth about her glamorous and scandalous life. But when she chooses unknown magazine reporter Monique Grant for the job, no one is more astounded than Monique herself. Why her? Why now?

When Mallory Blessing’s son, Link, receives deathbed instructions from his mother to call a number on a slip of paper in her desk drawer, he’s not sure what to expect. But he certainly does not expect Jake McCloud to answer. It’s the late spring of 2020 and Jake’s wife, Ursula DeGournsey, is the frontrunner in the upcoming Presidential election.

Monique is not exactly on top of the world. Her husband has left her, and her professional life is going nowhere.

Regardless of why Evelyn has selected her to write her biography, Monique is determined to use this opportunity to jumpstart her career.

Summoned to Evelyn’s luxurious apartment, Monique listens in fascination as the actress tells her story. From making her way to Los Angeles in the 1950s to her decision to leave show business in the ‘80s, and, of course, the seven husbands along the way, Evelyn unspools a tale of ruthless ambition, unexpected friendship, and a great forbidden love. Monique begins to feel a very real connection to the legendary star, but as Evelyn’s story nears its conclusion, it becomes clear that her life intersects with Monique’s own in tragic and irreversible ways.

[Best Seller]

There must be a mistake, Link thinks. How do Mallory and Jake know each other?

Flash back to the sweet summer of 1993: Mallory has just inherited a beachfront cottage on Nantucket from her aunt, and she agrees to host her brother’s bachelor party. Cooper’s friend from college, Jake McCloud, attends, and Jake and Mallory form a bond that will persevere — through marriage, children, and Ursula’s stratospheric political rise — until Mallory learns she’s dying.

Based on the classic film “Same Time Next Year” (which Mallory and Jake watch every summer), “28 Summers” explores the agony and romance of a one-weekend-per-year affair and the dramatic ways this relationship complicates and enriches their lives, and the lives of the people they love.

[Love Story]

People We Meet on Vacation

by Emily Henry Poppy and Alex. Alex and Poppy. They have nothing in common. She’s a wild child; he wears khakis.

She has insatiable wanderlust; he prefers to stay home with a book. And somehow, ever since a fateful car share home from college many years ago, they are the very best of friends. For most of the year they live far apart — she’s in New York City, and he’s in their small hometown — but every summer, for a decade, they have taken one glorious week of vacation together.

Until two years ago, when they ruined everything. They haven’t spoken since.

Poppy has everything she should want, but she’s stuck in a rut. When someone asks when she was last truly happy, she knows, without a doubt, it was on that ill-fated, final trip with Alex. And so, she decides to convince her best friend to take one more vacation together — lay everything on the table, make it all right. Miraculously, he agrees.

Now she has a week to fix everything. If only she can get around the one big truth that has always stood quietly in the middle of their seemingly perfect relationship. What could possibly go wrong?

[Beach Read] www.ScarlettMag.com

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Yoke

by Jessamyn Stanley Finding self-acceptance both on and off the mat.

In Sanskrit, yoga means to “yoke.” To yoke mind and body, movement and breath, light and dark, the good and the bad. This larger idea of “yoke” is what Jessamyn Stanley calls the yoga of the everyday — a yoga that is not just about perfecting your downward dog but about applying the hard lessons learned on the mat to the even harder daily project of living.

In a series of deeply honest, funny autobiographical essays, Jessamyn explores everything from imposter syndrome to cannabis to why it’s a full-time job loving yourself, all through the lens of yoke. She calls out an American yoga complex that prefers debating the merits of cotton versus polyblend leggings rather than owning up to its overwhelming Whiteness. She questions why the Western take on yoga so often misses — or misuses — the tradition’s spiritual dimension. And reveals what she calls her own “whole-ass problematic”: Growing up Baháí, loving astrology, learning to meditate, finding prana in music.

And in the end, Jessamyn invites every reader to find the authentic spirit of yoke — linking that good and that bad, that light and that dark.-

[Self-Help]

The Wife Upstairs

by Rachel Hawkins

[Thriller]

Meet Jane. Newly arrived to Birmingham, Alabama, Jane is a broke dog-walker in Thornfield Estates — a gated community full of McMansions, shiny SUVs, and bored housewives. The kind of place where no one will notice if Jane lifts the discarded tchotchkes and jewelry off the side tables of her well-heeled clients. Where no one will think to ask if Jane is her real name.

But her luck changes when she meets Eddie Rochester. Recently widowed, Eddie is Thornfield Estates’ most mysterious resident. His wife, Bea, drowned in a boating accident with her best friend, their bodies lost to the deep. Jane can’t help but see an opportunity in Eddie — not only is he rich, brooding, and handsome, he could also offer her the kind of protection she’s always yearned for.

Yet as Jane and Eddie fall for each other, Jane is increasingly haunted by the legend of Bea, an ambitious beauty with a rags-to-riches origin story, who launched a wildly successful southern lifestyle brand. How can she, plain Jane, ever measure up? And can she win Eddie’s heart before her past — or his — catches up to her?

With delicious suspense, incisive wit, and a fresh, feminist sensibility, “The Wife Upstairs” flips the script on a timeless tale of forbidden romance, ill-advised attraction, and a wife who just won’t stay buried. In this vivid reimagining of one of literature’s most twisted love triangles, which Mrs. Rochester will get her happy ending?

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Read any good books lately?

If you’d like to recommend a book for review in Cover to Cover, send to Mary@ScarlettMag.com.

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D.2iscover Sandestin.4 ®

Golf and Beach Resort article + photography provided by: Sandestin® Golf and Beach Resort

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ocated in Florida’s Panhandle on the peninsula right between Santa Rosa Beach and Destin, it shouldn’t be too hard to guess where the name "Sandestin" came from. Today, it may well sit right in the middle of everything, but not so long ago, Sandestin felt more like some kind of tropical outpost. An idyllic settlement located at the edge of beachy civilization. But the Sandestin® as we know it today wasn’t always destined to be a world-class residential golf and beach resort.

The land was originally purchased for crops and livestock, but during WWII the military requisitioned a large portion of the gulf-side property to research captured “Buzz Bomb” missiles from the Germans. The very first military use of American rockets were also tested and launched over the Gulf from top secret hidden bunkers and remnants can still be seen today, if you know where to look.

In the 1950s, the land was sold to the uber-wealthy Winthrop Rockefeller, who went on to become the Governor of Arkansas, effectively derailing his plans to develop the land into a coastal neighborhood. A few years later, a man you may have heard of, Walt Disney, almost bought the land for this little idea he was tinkering around with called “Disney World.” His plans moved forward, but just a bit further south.

In ‘70s, the owners of the Indianapolis Speedway attempted to buy the land to create something they dubbed the “Seaside Racetrack.” Eventually, the land fell into the hands of developers keen on building a resort community.

They borrowed the “San” from the unincorporated area known as Santa Rosa Beach to the east and mashed it together with “Destin” to the west. The rest, as they say, is history.

The first golf course at Sandestin®, The Links, was completed in 1974, along with residential neighborhoods and a hotel on the bay which is now known as Bayside at Sandestin. In the early ‘80s the marina, Baytowne Golf Course, and a beachside high-rise were completed and soon after The Beach Boys performed

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right out on the sand for some 12,000 lucky attendees.

The ‘90s brought immense growth with the completion of restaurants like the popular The Marina Bar and Grill — home to Maryann the Macaw, professional Tennis Club, more distinct neighborhoods, as well as the prestigious Burnt Pine Golf Course. A private Burnt Pine gated community within the Sandestin® gates soon followed, both named after a forest fire that had occurred in a portion of the woods a few years prior. The Village of Baytowne Wharf also went into development and is now the town center of Sandestin®, filled with festive restaurants, worldclass shopping, activities, and events.

Today, Sandestin® is home to 70+ distinct neighborhoods, rolling across over 2,400 acres between the Choctawhatchee Bay and the Gulf of Mexico. It’s all interconnected by miles of pedestrian, bike, and golf cart paths that weave through groves of live oaks, meandering past natural lagoons, fountains, man-made lakes, and meticulously landscaped fairways of four award-winning golf courses, including The Raven, Baytowne, The Links, and the exclusive private golf course, Burnt Pine. Not to mention thousands of unique vacation rentals span throughout the resort from the beach to the bay.

Sandestin® welcomes thousands of families each year to experience the resort and make cherished memories that will last a lifetime.

The resort’s signature hotel, Hotel Effie, exemplifies all the charm and personality of its namesake, owner and developer Tom Becnel’s grandmother.

Effie’s portrait is found in the main lobby for an Instagrammable moment, artfully displayed along with her signature rocking chairs. Guests are welcome to have a seat and spend time like Effie herself liked to do, taking in the scene while enjoying a slower pace.

Hotel Effie embodies southern elegance and invites you to experience ultra-chic rooms and suites, luxurious face and body treatments at Spa Lilliana,

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culinary offerings at Ovide by James Beard award-winning Chef Hugh Acheson and hand-crafted cocktails at the swanky Ara Rooftop Pool and Lounge — notably the only hotel rooftop pool in Northwest Florida. The panoramic views are unmatched.

All of that, and … oh, did we mention there’s a beach? That’s right. After all these years, the beach boys are still here, performing every day, setting up beach chairs and umbrellas for the countless fans who come to see the stunner of a show.

Sandestin® is a special place that is deeply rooted in community and values, steeped in a culture of genuine hospitality. The landscape has changed a bit and our story has and will continue to evolve. While it’s true, this is no Disney World or Seaside Racetrack … that’s perfectly fine with us.

9300 Emerald Coast Pkwy West Miramar Beach, FL. 32550 www.Sandestin.com XX

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Happy Hour |

Ultimate Top 10

C.3ocktail P.4laces to Drink the Rainbow written by: Mary Aho

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ith summer on the horizon, it’s time to start planning your vacation. When making your itinerary you are bound to set aside a day (or two) to sit around the pool or collapse into a beach chair and soak up some sun! This summer, spice up your vacation and drink the rainbow. The concept is simple, order one drink to represent each color of the rainbow. So you can start your day with a bloody mary and end it with a grapetini! We’ve come up with our “Ultimate Top 10” places to grab a cocktail on the Emerald Coast.

1 3

Pepper’s Mexican Grill & Cantina www.PeppersMexicanCantina.com

3rd Planet Brewing Company www.3rdPlanetBrewing.com

2 4

The Boathouse Oyster Bar www.BoatHouseOysterBarDestin.com

Acme Oyster House www.AcmeOyster.com

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5 7 9

Flora-Bama www.FloraBama.com

The Gulf www.TheGulf.com

Juana’s Pagodas & Sailors’ Grill www.JuanasPagodas.com

6 8 10

Seville Quarter www.SevilleQuarter.com

G.I. Jade Tiki Bar & Bistro Facebook: G.I. Jade Tiki Bar & Bistro

Sharky’s Beachfront Restaurant www.SharkysBeach.com

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| Foodie

charRED,WHITE&BLUEterie article + photography by: Mary Aho

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hile charcuterie continues to take the world by storm, it can feel a little redundant. While a traditional charcuterie board is defined as “an assortment of meats, cheeses, artisan breads, olives, fruit, and nuts, all artfully arranged on a serving board,” we are taking that lightly and giving our own interpretation of the meaning. How can we make it unique? What can I do to get the “Insta worthy” photo? We are here to help with new ideas, tips and tricks, and styling suggestions to make the cutest charcuterie board.

This issue our charcuterie board is red, white, and blue for the 4th of July.

That’s not the only occasion you can rock these patriotic colors for your board. This spread would be great for Memorial Day, Veterans Day, and Labor Day, or just whenever you’re in the patriotic mood.

We obviously have a limited color pallet for this board, so get creative with your cheeses. We added a blueberry goat cheese and a manchego with a red rind. Not only did that give us red, white, and blue, but it also gave us some texture variety.

From there we added fresh berries, watermelon, and blueberry jam for sweets. We used a trio of meats and added several cracker options to round out the board.

Charcuterie boards don’t have to be expensive to be a showstopper.

You can create a beautiful spread with these simple and easy-to-execute suggestions. Create your own patriotic charRED,WHITE&BLUEterie board and tag us on social media using the hashtag #ScarlettCharcuterie.

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September+October 21

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| Get Ready with Me

Get

V.3acation Ready with Me written by: Courtney Murray

www.ScarlettMag.com

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fter a year of quarantine and lockdown, everyone is anxious to hit the road this summer. It’s vacay time! Whether you are planning a road trip with your kids to visit family you’ve been missing, or if you are jet-setting to a tropical location to let your troubles melt away on a sun-soaked beach, there is one thing standing between you and out-of-office bliss — packing. Cue the ominous music. This daunting task can be overwhelming for some, but it doesn’t have to be. Put on “Beach Vibes” playlist on Spotify, make yourself a margarita, and get in the vacation mindset.

Streamline your packing by curating a minimalistic capsule wardrobe that can be mixed and matched. Let’s get ready together for a beach trip and take some of the stress out of preparation.

Classic Black Bathing Suit: Whether you are a skimpy bikini gal, a high-waisted, sporty two-piece fan, or a simple one-piece wearer, you can’t go wrong with a chic black bathing suit. It’s flattering and slimming on every size and shape and matches with everything.

Bathing Suit Cover Up: You can choose to bring a muted tunic style or take this chance to have a bold moment with a bright-colored, flowy maxi cover up in a festive pattern. Either way you’ll bring style to the sandy shores.

Strappy Sandals and Nude Wedge: Neutral, neutral, and more neutral. You can easily get away with packing two pairs of shoes for a beach vacation. One strappy cognac or black sandal can be dressed up and down and worn all day from the beach to shopping downtown. A simple nude or rattan wedge can transition from day to night and is a great way to elevate any outfit. (If you like to take breaks from day drinking in the pool, throw in sneakers if you’ll be doing any hiking or exercise.)

Sunglasses, Straw Bag, and Hat: Don’t forget the accessories. Protect your eyes

while making a statement, carry all of your beach essentials and look cute doing it, and shade your skin from the rays while giving off that effortlessly chic beach-babe vibe.

Denim Shorts: Whether you’re a high-waisted structured shorts lover, or more of a distressed cutoff girl, you can’t go wrong with denim shorts.

White Button Up: Classics are classics for a reason. A gauzy white button-up top is a vacation must have. It can be worn over your swimsuit, front tucked with shorts, or worn tied up in the front with a flowy skirt. Perfection.

Sundresses: Pick one casual dress; maybe in a basic black, white or a nautical stripe

in a breezy cotton or soft linen. Pick one dressier option in a festive palm print or sweet floral.

Basic Tops/Bodysuits: Make sure to include 2-3 basic tops or

bodysuits of varying necklines in neutrals to be interchangeable throughout your trip.

White Denim: In case there is a cooler evening, it’s

always smart to throw in one pair of pants; and nothing looks better than white with a fresh bronzy tan.

Skirt: You can let your style lead with this one. It could be

a flowy bohemian moment, a ruffled mini, or even be a skort.

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f you’re driving to your vacation destination, you have a little more wiggle room on your amount to pack. If you’re flying however, you know airlines charge for every ounce you bring so intentional packing is necessary. Here’s a few tips and tricks to slim down your bags and be thoughtful about your packing.

The Essentials: Pack what you know you like to rotate on a regular basis. Vacation isn’t the time to bring three ball gowns or pull out that pair of jeans you haven’t worn in two years. You know what works for you, stick to that.

Folding: The way you fold your clothes can make a big difference. Try the Marie Kondo method of folding which provides a way to maximize your space and allows you to see all of your options in your suitcase easier than if they are in stacks.

Size Matters: The smaller the bag, the less you’ll bring.

If you’re packing in a carry on, it will force you to choose quality over quantity. Instead of stuffing your large bag until you have to sit on it to force it closed, you’ll pick the perfect flowy blouse that can be both dressed up and down and worn for more than one occasion on your trip.

Keep it Fresh: Tuck some dryer sheets in between your clothes to arrive with fresh and crisp outfits.

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50 States & 52 Marathons written by: Whitney Lee

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unning one marathon is a feat in itself. Running one in every state is phenomenal. Carolann Dunbar, a member of Santa Rosa Golf & Beach Club, recently completed her 52nd marathon this May, running a total of 1,362 miles in 50 states.

Carolann and her family purchased their first home in the 30A area in 2003 and became members of Santa Rosa Golf & Beach Club in 2005, eventually building a house on the No. 4 green in 2016. Since then, Carolann became known as a local running icon along 30A. Carolann's passion for running began in 1977 at 20 years old. “Back then, men’s shoes were the only choice for running any distance,” said Carolann. It all started with just five miles a day for her until 1997, when she ran her first marathon in Birmingham, Alabama, with the encouragement of friends, family, and coworkers. Since then, she set off on her journey to compete in marathons.

In preparation for each marathon, Carolann has a rigorous training schedule. “My schedule isn't exactly normal, but it has gotten me through 52 marathons,” said Carolann. “I run five miles a day, Tuesday through Friday. Saturday is my long run. I run between 10 and 18 miles based on my schedule.

Sunday is a four-mile day, an easy day to get the acid out of your muscles. Monday is a day of rest.”

In 1998, Carolann ran her first of 50 state marathons in San Diego, California. After completing the marathon in San Diego, she started to train for the Blue Angel Marathon in Florida. As of this May, Carolann traveled to Spokane, Washington — making it her 52nd marathon. This last marathon completes her statewide marathon journey. Very few people have achieved this feat, and Carolann is one of them.

“After running my first few marathons, all in different states, the idea of running all the states seemed like something fun to try. We all have different ideas of fun,” said Carolann.

When Carolann isn’t running marathons, you can find her enjoying time at Santa Rosa Golf & Beach Club with her husband, Tom.

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vacation

Scan the QR Code to start listening to Scarlett’s curated July + August 2021 issue playlist.

Vacation - Thomas Rhett Island In The Sun - Weezer All Summer Long - Kid Rock Wouldn’t It Be Nice - The Beach Boys Rock The Boat - Hues Corporation Girls Just Want To Have Fun - Cyndi Lauper Could You Be Loved - Bob Marley & The Wailers Peaches - Justin Bieber, Daniel Caesar, Giveon (Sittin’ On) The Dock Of The Bay - Otis Redding Over The Rainbow - Israel Kamakawiwo’ole Brandy (You’re A Fine Girl) - Looking Glass In The Summertime - Mungo Jerry Toes - Zac Brown Band Watermelon Sugar - Harry Styles Party In The U.S.A. - Miley Cyrus www.ScarlettMag.com

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L.3ost Art.3 of I.2ce Cream.4 The

produced, styled + photographed by: Colleen Duffley Productions

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very now and then you luck up and meet someone who undecidedly changes your life. Colleen Duffley, a food and lifestyle photographer based in Santa Rosa Beach, Florida, has been blessed to have crossed paths with a lot of these people.

Diane Boddy is one of them.

A few years ago, Colleen went to a dinner party at her dear friend Paula’s house. Paula is a world-renowned cheese maker and one of the people who continues to fan the flame of Colleen's passion for food and cooking. There, Colleen was introduced to Diane Boddy, ice cream-maker extraordinaire.

Diane brought dessert, a unique ice cream. Colleen doesn’t remember the flavor, but she does remember thinking, this is a woman after my own heart.

Diane says, “Homemade ice cream is a showstopper at dinner parties because very few people make homemade ice cream anymore.” And she’s right, we are all so focused on instant gratification. When we want ice cream, we go to the store, find something we think is interesting and ignore the fact that we could probably make something way more interesting at home, like corn ice cream.

Let me stop you right there, it doesn’t sound like something you’d want to eat for dessert, but it’s worth trying at least a time or twelve.

After seeing each other at a few more of Paula’s dinner parties, Colleen told Diane that she wanted to photograph her creations. They would have a little ice cream party of their own.

Diane has been making ice cream since the days of the electric ice cream maker that required ice and rock salt. So to say that she has perfected only a few flavors would be an understatement. And here’s the real scoop ... she hasn’t capitalized on her ice cream-making skills. She gifts people with her delicious treats because she just loves making ice cream (and she’s just that cool).

Diane arrived at the Dallas photo studio with coolers of the cream, probably not quite sure what she was in for. This was actually her first photoshoot and Colleen’s …. well, let’s just say it’s probably too many to count.

Diane had all the flavors and Colleen had all of the props, sets, and ideas ready to go. She impressed me with her collaboration skills. Colleen has worked with many food stylists and chefs and some of them have a really hard time letting their food have fun. Diane jumped right into the fun with Colleen and let her ice cream be playful and artistic as opposed to just a bowl of ice cream.

Everything had a distinct look and flavor, and it didn’t stop at the corn ice cream.

From chocolate sorbet to cherry ice cream to grape gazpacho with tomato sorbet (that Diane serves as an appetizer, just in case you were wondering) to lavender and rosewater to cinnamon, which Diane says is everybody’s favorite, there are no limits to the flavor combinations that Diane will try. And, while Colleen does love the cinnamon, she doesn’t think she

could pick a favorite. Her favorite is the one that comes with the biggest spoon.

Diane says her favorite is the peach & prosecco sorbet. “You can really taste both of the flavors,” she says. “Who needs an ice cream float when you can have an adult prosecco float?” She’s not wrong.

After their day of ice cream, Colleen went out and got an ice cream maker and has tried many of Diane's recipes and, of course, she has her own concoctions these days that include an “Old-Fashioned” flavor (like the cocktail) with Luxor cherries and a bourbon glaze. She also makes one that is coffee flavored with chocolate-covered espresso beans that she thinks her ice cream mentor would be proud of.

Cooking is Diane’s passion and her form of creativity. They both agree that ice cream making is a lost art. “There are some things we need to preserve that give us pleasures in our life,” she says, “and ice cream is one of those pleasures.”

And Colleen would have to say, they agree on that too!

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Lemon Ice Cream

1 tbsp finely grated lemon zest Juice from 1 Meyer lemon ½ tsp finely chopped rind from a preserved lemon 1 tsp juice from preserved lemon (adjust according to saltiness) 1 cup sugar ¾ cup heavy cream 1 ¼ cup whole milk 1. Whisk together zest, lemon juice, preserved lemon rind and juice and sugar in a large bowl.

2. Whisk together cream and milk and gradually pour in the lemon and sugar mixture, whisking constantly. Continue whisking until the sugar dissolves.

3. Chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour.

4. Pour into the ice cream freezer and churn according to the manufacturer's directions.

Peach and Prosecco Sorbet

12 oz frozen peaches (Fresh, juicy, peeled peaches can be used. Omit the nectar with fresh peaches.) ½ cup peach nectar 1/3 light corn syrup 3 tbsp heavy cream (optional, but makes a smoother texture) ¾ cup prosecco 1. Puree peaches in a food processor until smooth. Combine the pureed fruit, nectar, sugar and corn syrup in a saucepan and bring to a simmer until sugar is melted. Do not let it boil.

2. Chill for 2 hours.

3. Strain mixture through a fine sieve into a bowl and add prosecco and cream, then chill again.

4. Pour into the ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer's directions. Freeze for several hours or overnight before serving.

Variation: Substitute freshly-squeezed orange juice for peach nectar and add 1 tablespoon of fine orange zest.

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the beauty of

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written by: Courtney Murray

6/18/21 9:31 AM

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rends come and go, but there are some traditions that stand the test of time. The art of henna has been practiced for more than 5,000 years in Pakistan, India, Africa, and the Middle East. There’s even some documentation that dates it to more than 9,000 years old! That’s crazy when the fashion pendulum swings from skinny jeans to flares to wide legs and back faster than you can blink these days. For centuries people have been utilizing henna as a DIY air conditioner since it has natural cooling properties. When the leaves from the henna plant are dried and crushed they can be made into a paste. Then you can soak your palms and soles of your feet, and the cooling properties last the length of the henna stain. As the stain would fade, interesting patterns were left on the skin’s surface, sparking the idea of using henna for decorative purposes. Many people even began using henna in lieu of jewelry. If your hands are beautiful, you need the nails to match. Before OPI and Essie were around, people from Asia, Spain, and Egypt colored their nails with henna.

This beautiful ancient art form has grown and evolved and carried over into modern day. The natural artwork

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became popular as a form of temporary bodily decoration in the United States in the '90s. It was an easy and natural way to get the look of a tattoo without the pain or lifetime commitment. Henna is a flowering plant that grows 12-15 feet high and has been used for cosmetic purposes for centuries to dye skin, hair, and fingernails.

Henna dye can also be used for fabrics as well including wool, silk, and even leather. As quickly as fashion trends cycle through, so do beauty trends. Pencil thin eyebrows were all the rage in the 1990s, and now big, bold bushy brows are having a moment in the spotlight. There’s tons of brow products out there from pencils and pomade, to gel and soap brows. There’s also an increase in permanent and semi-permanent services to alter the shape and color of your brows. There’s tattooing, microblading, powder brows, combo brows, and brow lamination. If you weren’t blessed with Brooke Shields’ brows, have no fear, henna is here! There are pros and cons to each brow journey, but if you are looking for something semi-permanent to try out with no pain that leaves a minimal dent in your wallet, look no further than henna eyebrows. The process involves tinting the brows by staining the skin beneath

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the hairs to make a shadow, creating the illusion of depth and fullness which fills in bald spots. A quick Google search of henna eyebrows resulted in countless at-home DIY kits. But, with something so prominent on your face, I’d turn to the professionals on this one. Henna brows are natural, vegan friendly, and free from peroxide activators making it an excellent choice for anyone with sensitive skin.

Henna is widely seen decorating hands and feet, often on a stunning bride, and is also referred to as Mehndi.

Once used to provide comfort in blood circulation-related diseases and other pains, today's henna is more often used to beautify hands, legs, and dyeing hair all across the world. There are beautiful traditions being carried out in other countries, such as in Morocco where a henna ritual is performed in the 7th month of pregnancy. In some Asian countries like India and Pakistan the bridegrooms are also decorated with the art. Henna is also widely used by the Muslim community on various occasions of religious significance. It’s amazing to sit back and reflect on the beautiful art form that has evolved over centuries and truly stood the test of time.

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Be the Change |

Making an Impact written by: Liesel Schmidt / photography provided by: Impact100 Northwest Florida

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o much of our culture has changed for women in the past century, giving us rights that were once only bestowed upon men: the right to vote, the right to own property, the right to higher pay, and even the ability to own our own businesses.

And, while we may have long had a role in philanthropy, the ways of being involved seemed limited, as well.

Inspired to create a new outlet that allowed women’s philanthropic pursuits to be expanded and more encouraged, Wendy Steele founded Impact100 in 2001. At its core, the organization sought to empower more women to find their voices as activists and impact their communities through large grants. A year later, Impact100 became a nonprofit and donated its first grant of $123,000. In 2003, Impact100 was featured in People magazine, which served as a catalyst to beginning a movement. Now, Wendy’s model has been replicated in cities all over the world and only continues to grow.

The idea behind Impact100 is just as it sounds: 100 women donate $1,000 each to form a $100,000 high-impact grant that allows a local 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization to accomplish their goals and change lives. “Most importantly, 100% of each member’s contribution is awarded to nonprofit organizations, with none of that contribution going to administrative costs,” says Valerie Burrelle, Communications Chair of the Northwest Florida Chapter of Impact100, which was created in 2012 to cover Okaloosa and Walton counties. That specification, of course, means more money making a change, rather than paying someone’s salary.

All 501(c)(3) nonprofits — with the exception of religious or political organizations — are eligible for grants, and grant applications are accepted for projects in the five focus areas: arts and culture; education; environment, recreation and preservation; family; and health and wellness. The members of Impact100 come together 105

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to determine which nonprofit projects will receive funding through their grant process; and while the organizations they help may change, there is one thing that is a constant: the impact they make.

Impressively, the Pensacola Bay Area is the largest of all Impact100 organizations in the world — meaning they also make an incredible amount of impact on the world around them. “Since our formation in 2003, Impact100 Pensacola Bay Area has donated $12.8 million to local nonprofit organizations through 120 transformative grants,” says Roz Leahy, President of Impact100 PBA. “We are very proud of this accomplishment, combined with our ability to creatively adapt in order to continue throughout the pandemic the good work we do, as well as to retain a strong membership.”

Likewise, Impact100 NWF is also doing amazing things for their community. “Since 2012, Impact100 Northwest Florida, Inc., has donated over $3.8 million to local nonprofits through 29 grants,” says Valerie. “We continue to support nonprofits by providing grant writing workshops, wish-list postings of grant applicants, benevolence networking, and exposure to businesses, local government, and private individuals. We also provide support to local businesses by holding various events at their venue, which in turn, spreads awareness of their business.

The introduction to philanthropy work is important to us, as well, so we provide scholarship opportunities to young female professionals through our NextGen Program.”

Impact100 membership is open to all women over 18, and membership donations of $1,000 are utilized to build grants of at least $100,000 to be awarded to other 501(c)(3) nonprofits.

And while the idea for Impact100 originated with creating a group of 100 women, they don’t limit themselves to a number.

In fact, they often far surpass it. “Our membership for 2021 is 418 members strong, making it a total of $418,000! That means we will be awarding four grants of $104,500 each to local nonprofits within Okaloosa and/or Walton County,” says Valerie. “The more members we have, the more impactful and

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transformational grants we can award to local nonprofits. Our goal for 2022 is to have more than 500 members so that we can award a grant in each of our focus area categories.”

Adds Roz, “In 2021, Impact100 Pensacola Bay Area has 1,120 members, which will allow us to give 11 grants of $101,820 each to nonprofit organization.” Those 11 grants mean more than $1 million to their recipients, which are announced at their annual meeting in October. Impact100 Pensacola Bay Area is currently accepting grant proposals and organizing Focus Area Committees to review those proposals.

Upcoming events include the Impact100 NWF Grant Finalist Reveal on Thursday, Oct. 7, 2021, at Destin Commons. Weather permitting, this will be an outdoor event.

Informational events regarding membership are available to private parties, businesses, and industry associations.

Woman of the Ye ar details coming soon

For more information on Impact100 NWF and PBA, visit www.ImpactNWF.org and www.Impact100Pensacola.org.

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YAAAS girl, you know you want it!

Sunset Shoes

Coastal Outfitters

Bogg Bag

Toadfish Non-Tipping Can Cooler

www.SunsetShoesOnline.com The Original Bogg Bag is our largest tote, stylish enough for a girl’s weekend and large enough for family day at the beach.

Take the Bogg Bag along for all your adventures and know that our durable, washable, tip-proof, sturdy design will give you peace of mind knowing you have everything you need in a bag, just don’t forget the sunscreen! Bogg Bags are designed with you in mind.

We love the beach, but we don’t love bringing sand home, so we designed this bag to be washable.

Simply rinse off at the end of the day, and it’s as good as new again, ready for the next adventure!

www.Coastal-Outfitters.com The Toadfish Non-Tipping Can Cooler is the first of its kind unspillable beverage cooler. Made with high-grade stainless steel, making it puncture & rust-resistant. From a lack of cup holders on a rocking boat to wagging dog tails, this product will keep your drink upright, accident-free, and icy cold.

Lizard Thicket Destin Commons Summer Accessories www.ShopLizardThicket.com Get beach-ready with Lizard Thicket’s Beach Bliss Purse, Heat Wave Straw Visor In Black, and Beach By Matisse: Valley Woven Slide Sandals.

Lady Basil

Gourmet Pesto LadyyBasil@gmail.com Lady Basil is passionate about pesto! She creates unique blends with a variety of basils she grows locally. The featured blend contains lemon basil and sunflower seeds, perfect for summertime!

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Southern Living Store Destin Commons Create A Castle

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Lily Chartier Pearls South Sea Golden Pearls www.WildAboutPearls.com

Lily Chartier Pearls brings you beautiful, high-luster freshwater, Tahitian, and South Sea cultured pearls that have been hand drilled and knotted on fine, hand-cut Kangaroo leather or our signature handspun nautical Mermaid Rope.

Our modular split mold sand castle system will allow you to build beautiful sand or snow structures in a short amount of time. Just buckle it, fill it and Create A Castle. Our premium turret/tower kit includes the Create A Castle 10 inch turret split system cylinder, a stackable 6 inch split system cylinder for additional height, a corbel to add stabilization and a beautiful effect in between the towers, battlement brick form, window cutter and a mesh backpack for simple transportation and cleanup!

FUNBOY

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FUNBOY X MALIBU BARBIE™ PRIVATE JET FLOAT

Statement Necklace

Jet off to Malibu with the limited edition 50th Anniversary Malibu Barbie™ Private Jet Float by FUNBOY. Transport to the jet-set lifestyle of the 1970s and land at the beach where it’s always sunny and fun never stops. Features an integrated cup holder, dual handles, and a front tether point. Featuring FUNBOY’s oversized design that’s perfect for adults.

Shells, Blue Topaz, and Spinel in Sterling Silver and Bronze. Vault 46 is the home of eclectic home decor, unique objects, accessories, one-of-a-kind jewelry, art, candles and creative gifts.

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| Anything He Can Do...

Anything

Can Do...

Megan Gaster photography by: Shanna Magnuson

Hometown West Palm Beach, Florida Current Residence Niceville, Florida Occupation Delivery Captain Special Skills USCG licensed Master Captain for vessels up to 100T

How did you get interested in your occupation?

Growing up on the water with my family naturally led me to want to work with, on, and around anything that had to do with boats.

How long have you been practicing your trade?

I have been in the boating industry for 6 years and have held a Captain’s license for a year and a half.

What’s your favorite part of the job you do.

When someone purchases a new or used boat from our dealership, I get to spend as much or as little time as the customer needs to help teach them how to safely and comfortably operate their new vessel. My favorite part is seeing new or timid boaters gain confidence, and knowing that I was a part of helping them create future lifelong memories. Receiving photos of families on the water with giant smiles, a cooler full of fish, and sun-kissed cheeks is one of the most rewarding feelings in the world!

Let us in on the least favorite part of your job.

The seemingly permanent farmer’s tan.

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What empowers you as a woman in a typically male industry?

When male Captains who have years of experience and knowledge take the initiative to spend time with me to teach me tricks of the trade that they’ve learned over time. Or when someone learning the trade asks me to help them learn a new system or skill.

Did/do you have any role models that inspired you to choose your line of work?

My dad!! However, I have met an abundance of role models through my journey that would take me days to list.

What advice do you have for other women interested in your trade?

Just get out there. Don’t be intimidated to ask questions. Get in the books, learn the rules, apply them. Start from the bottom and stay humble. Hard work pays off.

How do you think diversity in the workplace helps shape our community?

I think it helps give other women the confidence to step out of their comfort zone and learn something new, therefore, creating a new level of respect and patience throughout the community.

Since you’ve started, have you noticed a change in your industry when it comes to opportunities for women?

This is a tough one to answer. I believe the opportunity has always existed for any person who has a drive to work hard, male or female. Work ethic says a lot about a person.

Words you live by…

Smooth seas never made a skilled Captain.

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the Cover White Scuba Bandeau Crop Top, www.PrettyLittleThing.us White Bonded Scuba Pleated Extreme Wide Leg Pants, www.PrettyLittleThing.us

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