Scarlett | July+August 2022

July+August 2022

Your Adventure Awaits!

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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Like what you see? Here’s how to match our style.

Looking for a new way to improve your complexion and diminish fine lines and wrinkles? Facial cupping could be it!

Get the Look

Wild Destin

Meet Michaela Partin, owner of Wild, a business built on providing fresh coconuts and pineapples to everyone who shows up at Crab Island, Destin.

Health 55

Let’s Get Physical

This adventurous night out trend is unexpected, and a great workout!

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Foodie

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Skewers are a great summer grill food — mix and match your proteins and veg for endless combinations.

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Body Talk

Summer is here! Let’s talk hair removal.

JAMNOLA

Joy-Art-Music-New Orleans

JAMNOLA is 5,400-square-feet of pure NOLA joy, celebrating the iconic art, music, food, and theatrics of the city through the eyes of 20 local lead artists.

About Face

Lifestyle 29

Heroines

Raise a glass to some amazing women in our community.

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A Few Good Men

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

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Happy Hour

Coconut cocktails — add a tropical vibe to your favorite drink!

Home Decor

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Find out about the fastest-growing sport in the United States.

Tour of Homes Pensacola

Is now the best time to sell your home? Jessica Duncan talks about how to make the best financial decision for your situation.

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Welcome Home

Pickleball

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Anything He Can Do...

Meredith McIntosh is the Head Instructor for the Emerald Coast Sailing Association and has been sailing for 10 years.

Find your patio style with these tips on how to put together an inviting outdoor space. www.ScarlettMag.com

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July + August 2022

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For Fresh Start for Children and Families, reaching out a hand to help someone up is the very mission that drives them, giving the less fortunate members of the community a chance at a “fresh start.”

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

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

Be the Change

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Cover to Cover

Listen Up!

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| There’s Something About Mary

Find Your Balance

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weet, sweet summertime! It’s time to dust off your favorite sun hat and go-to weekender bag, vacation season is among us. We all feel better when it’s time to take time off. Time off from school, work, responsibilities ... That will all be here when we get back. The only thing you need to worry about is relaxing and enjoying yourself.

Everyone is different when it comes to what they like to do on vacation. As a child, my mother wanted us to do the absolute most on vacation. That meant seeing everything there was to see and doing everything there was to do. Now that I am grown and married, my husband would take a five hour nap every single day of the trip. I, however, love a mix of the “go, go, go” and a bit of relaxation. I find that vacation is all about balance. Sightsee in the morning and lay by the pool until dinner, the best of both worlds.

We spent a day on the water for this issue’s cover shoot. Living in a vacation destination, it’s easy to take for granted the beauty around us in our day-to-day lives. As we cruised out to Crab Island, I had to stop and remind myself just how blessed I am to live somewhere so beautiful. Although it is nice to get away to the mountains or countryside, you just can’t beat living in paradise.

Whether you have a trip on the books or you’re constantly daydreaming about your next getaway, this issue of Scarlett has something for all of us. For the latest on what’s going on with Scarlett, follow us on Instagram: @scarlett.magazine and Like us on Facebook: Scarlett Magazine.

We look forward to hearing from you because frankly, we know you give a damn.

Mary Aho Editor

photography by: Shanna Magnuson www.ScarlettMag.com

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On the Cover July+August 2022

Your Adventure Awaits!

e decor, lifestyle, and health.

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

We’re Coconuts for Summer

We are going wild for this cover girl, Michaela Partin, on the Vacation issue of Scarlett. Michaela, owner of Wild, dives into the details of what her business is all about.

We spent the day on the water sipping coconuts and snacking on pineapple at Crab Island. We got to know Michaela, and now it’s your turn to get wild, read about her clever business plan, and exciting things to come! Check out this issue to see how we are making a splash this summer with the Vacation issue of Scarlett. photography by: Shanna Magnuson model: Michaela Partin

STUBBS ORTHODONTICS 850.678.8338 STUBBSORTHO.COM 15

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Who is Scarlett?

The Team

Steve Barber

Mary Aho

Publisher steve@scarlettmag.com

Editor mary@scarlettmag.com

Kristin Frazier Copy Editor

Jessica Graña Creative Director

Shanna Magnuson Lead 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 Shanna Magnuson, Lead Photographer Kristina Wright, Photographer

.

Harrison Barber, Distribution Emily Brink, Writer Jessica Duncan, Writer Courtney Murray, Writer Liesel Schmidt, Writer

Special Thanks Connie Connelly, Maggie Weaver

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written by: Emily Brink photography by: Shanna Magnuson

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veryone remembers where they were when they had their first fresh coconut. For some, it was on their island honeymoon, and for others it was walking down the street in a country close to the equator. For me, it was at a roadside stand on a back road in Costa Rica. There is something about sipping that fresh, sweet coconut water that soothes your worries and puts a smile on your face. Business owner, Michaela Partin, wants to provide that unforgettable experience to people who live in and visit her hometown of Destin, Florida. It is setting those intentions and sharing pieces of other cultures with her customers that keeps her going.

Michaela owns Wild, a business built on providing fresh coconuts and pineapples to everyone who shows up at Crab Island. If you are not local to the Destin area, you might not be familiar with Crab Island. It is not an island so much as a sandbar located in the Choctawhatchee Bay just past the Destin Bridge. Every day the area fills up with anchored boats full of young families, partiers, couples just enjoying some sun, and everyone in between. It is an odd concept for anyone who has not experienced it, but suffice it to say, it’s a good time. When Michaela first started her business, she had one wooden canoe that she filled with coconuts. Every day she would meander through all the boats and sunbathers and sell a refreshing drink and a fun experience to anyone who wanted. Today the Wild crew has built three boats and added fresh-cut pineapples and açaí bowls to their menu.

Since its conception in 2019, Michaela has added seven hardworking girls who love their job. She hopes she can inspire them to truly see that following their heart and passions can lead to the most exciting adventures.

Owning a fresh coconut business in the Florida Panhandle was not necessarily where Michaela saw herself ending up, but she knows now this is exactly where she is supposed to be.

www.ScarlettMag.com

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Born near Cocoa Beach, Florida, she didn't understand the magic of the Emerald Coast until her family moved there just before she started ninth grade at Fort Walton Beach High School.

The day after she graduated, she left for a 10-year adventure that would take her across the world and finally back to the area she calls home. Michaela started her adventure in Hawaii as a volunteer serving Hawaii’s unhoused population. When she wasn’t working, she was surfing. After her year in Hawaii, she moved to Bali to explore Indonesia. Finally becoming fluent in Indonesian, she got a job as a sports marketing manager for a small, femalebased Indonesian surf brand. Quickly she became a strong presence in the Southeast Asain surfing community and eventually managed the Asian 21

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professional surfing circuit. Throughout all of her travels, she really became immersed in the beach vibes and freshness of life.

After spending six years in Indonesia, life took her to Australia where she studied music and taught surfing. Four beautiful years later, her visa was expiring and she faced the reality of moving back to the states. Along the way home, she spent three months on a motorcycle, towing her surfboards through Indonesia. One day she found herself off the coast of Sumatra in the Mentawai Islands watching some locals in a dug-out canoe trying to communicate with Australian tourists. They were trying to sell coconuts from their village to tired surfers, and Michaela was struck by the innocence of cultural exchange. That was when it hit her! She could bring this experience home and provide some of this culture she loved so much to the people of Florida.

Before reaching the states, Michaela met her dad in Nepal to trek the base camp of Mount Everest. Throughout the 11-day hike, all she could think about was selling coconuts at Crab Island from little wooden boats. It was during that time she came up with the name Wild, and she knew it was the only 23

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thing she was meant to do. When she finally made it home, a family friend and life-long local helped her conceptualize, build, and hand-paint her boat. Wild was officially in business! Today, they still build the boats by hand and it sometimes feels like a big group project because everyone involved adds their unique touch.

Being surrounded by free-thinkers and creative entrepreneurs was a big influence for Michaela. In Indonesia it is easier to take the boundaries off life and push the limits of possibility. The idea of leaving the customers with a unique experience they will talk about for years to come is a core tenant of Wild.

Michaela hopes to continue operating the boats with integrity and creativity for many years. She is also in the process of opening a permanent storefront so people on land can experience the coconuts and fresh-cut pineapples. A typical day at Wild starts at 8 a.m. when they load all the fruit onto trucks and drive it to the harbor to stock the boats.

They try to get the boats on the water by 10 a.m. so they can start selling. By 1 p.m., the girls are usually ready for a restock. Every day they are carrying hundreds of pounds of fruit to distribute to happy boaters.

This summer, not only have they added a third boat that exclusively sells açaí bowls, but they also opened their Wild Summer Pop Up tent at Shoreline Church. At the pop up you can find the classic pineapples and coconuts, as well as new menu items like the açaí bowls, YOLO coffee, breakfast bruschetta, a keto power bowl, and even a tropical PB&J. Having a storefront cafe was always part of the end goals of Wild so being able to get that ball rolling is really exciting.

Stop by the Shoreline Church building and check them out. They will be there all summer long, Tuesdays through Sundays. Follow their Instagram (@ wilddestin) for more updates on a storefront. And next time you find yourself in need of an adventure, take the boat to Crab Island and keep an eye out for those vibrant colors and smiling faces you see on every Wild boat.

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| Playlist

vacation

Scan the QR Code to start listening to Scarlett’s curated July + August 2022 issue playlist.

Brown Eyed Girl Van Morrison

As It Was Harry Styles

Love Grows (Where My Rosemary Goes) Edison Lighthouse

Here Comes The Sun The Beatles

Light Switch Charlie Puth

Kiss Me More Doja Cat, SZA

Summer Calvin Harris

California Gurls Katy Perry

Walking on Sunshine Katrina And The Waves

Surfin’ USA The Beach Boys

Summer Nights John Travolta, Olivia Newton-John

Under The Boardwalk The Drifters

7 Summers Morgan Wallen

Valerie Rome Hero Foxes

Hotel California Eagles

www.ScarlettMag.com

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H.2eroines

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 along the Gulf Coast. 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 are that and more.

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| Heroines

Lucy Buffett Owner, LuLu’s Gulf Shores, AL

written by: Emily Brink photography by: Rachel E. Ligon

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orn in Mobile, Alabama, to two working-class parents, Lucy Buffett learned quickly that to get anywhere in life you had to work hard. Being big believers in education, both of her parents worked hard to have enough money to put their children into a Catholic school. Her mother really imparted those ambitions onto her daughter. Learning from her example, Lucy learned to be self-sustaining and independent. She is Lucy’s greatest female influence.

Today, Lucy lives in Perdido Key, Florida, and manages her restaurant chain, LuLu’s. “LuLu” is her childhood nickname that has stuck around since she was a little girl, so that’s how she named her restaurant. LuLu’s is your one-stop-shop for fun, food, and music. Their menu boasts classic Southern recipes created by Lucy and made from scratch. They have everything from seafood to salads to hamburgers that are certain to satisfy any craving. She even serves her famous Seafood Gumbo that is a big crowd favorite. At LuLu’s, they value inclusivity, so even if you have food allergies, there is still plenty for you to enjoy.

They have specific menus catered to diets free of dairy, egg, gluten, shellfish, soy, and seafood.

Lucy did not start out wanting to own big, fabulous restaurants, but this is where she ended up, and it brings her more joy than she could have imagined. When Lucy returned to Alabama to care for her aging parents, she also started her first restaurant. In 1999, LuLu’s Sunset Grill opened in Week’s Bay, Alabama. It was a small, well loved, dive bar that combined a bait and tackle shop and burger joint. When their lease was not renewed, Lucy knew she couldn’t leave her customers without their Gumbo, so she packed everything up and moved her business to Gulf Shores, Alabama, where they have been in operation since 2004.

After 11 years in business, LuLu’s added another location in Destin, Florida, in 2015. They learned to love the Gulf Coast and all the people who came to get the LuLu’s experience. However, Lucy wasn’t done. In 2018, LuLu’s opened a third location in North Myrtle Beach where they were voted “Best Restaurant in South Carolina” the very first year they were open. It was a huge feat to pull off, but between everyone on the LuLu’s team, they made it happen. LuLu’s has grown from a small dive bar

with barely 100 seats, to three separate locations that each employ 300 people and can seat 500 guests at a time.

Creating an inclusive and diverse business where people of all ages get to come enjoy themselves is Lucy’s greatest accomplishment.

Every city that hosts a LuLu’s reaps some rewards. Lucy is a big proprietor of giving back to the communities and doing what she can to make life better. Her foundation, Gumbo Love, chooses eight to ten charities every year to work with and donate to. Lucy loves choosing areas that are close to her heart, so often she will partner with charities dedicated to the arts, music, or animals. Investing in the community is just a small way to say thank you for the continued patronage and support she has received throughout the years.

Helping others succeed along the way is a quality LuLu’s is really proud of. Lucy hopes she can inspire others, especially women, to go after their dreams. They have even had a number of past employees go on to open their own businesses. More than anything, Lucy hopes her employees are happy and thriving.

• Last Google Search: “How to use my ozone air purifier” • Go-To Cocktail: Iced herbal peach tea, with a fresh slice of peach • Currently Reading: The Lincoln Highway by Amor Towles & The Wisdom of Dr. David R. Hawkins: Classic teachings on Spiritual Truth and Enlightenment • Dream Vacation: Most days I am living my dream vacation.

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| Heroines

Eden Preston

Owner, Little Sparrow Gallery Middle School Art Teacher,Liza Jackson Preparatory School Crestview, FL

written by: Emily Brink photography provided by: Eden Preston

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rowing up with a parent in the military brings its own kind of struggles, one of those being the nomadic lifestyle. For Eden Preston, being a part of a military family means that the idea of a “hometown” is tricky. Fort Walton Beach, Florida, is the area her family stayed in the longest and the place that has had the biggest impact on her life, therefore it is usually where she claims home.

So while she has been all over and seen many places, the Emerald Coast is where she keeps coming back and where she has started planting her roots.

Today, Eden lives in Crestview and works with the Okaloosa County School District as the middle school art teacher at Liza Jackson Preparatory School. Art has been a transformative addition to Eden’s life, and she loves getting to share that passion with her students every day.

While Eden loves making art and sharing it with people, sometimes even the things we love the most can feel tedious. For Eden, not giving up on her art, even when she tried, is her greatest accomplishment. She loves the journey that her creative process has taken her on and the different experiences she has been able to have through that creative spirit. Eden’s art has really developed with her as she grows into who she wants to be and keeps dreaming of the possibilities.

For many, teaching can leave them feeling drained and wanting to use any free time to recuperate. However, when Eden is not at the school, you can find her at the Little Sparrow Gallery. Eden owns and operates the art gallery and home decor store

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located in Fort Walton Beach, Florida. Eden knows that curating the things in your home is no easy process, but like her art, eventually, everything comes together. Having pieces of art and little collected elements can really pull your personality throughout your home and give your guests that welcoming feel. Little Sparrow Gallery displays Eden’s own art as well as art from other local artists. They also offer everything from accessories to linens and garden supplies to pet supplies. It is a one-stop-shop for all things aesthetic.

While attending college in the Pacific Northwest, Eden realized that the weather was not for her. She ended up losing a lot of who she was during that time and really missed the Florida sunshine. When she moved back, Eden began to flourish again and find that love for her passions.

Her bit of advice to her 20-year-old self would be to get out of Oregon and try something new!

Eden did not get to where she is today by herself. She has had a strong support system that poured itself into her and her life. God has always guided her efforts and given her an innate drive to create and do more. Eden’s mother is the most confident, creative, and strong person she knows which has easily made her Eden’s biggest female influence.

Over the next five years, the Little Sparrow Gallery will

• Go-To Cocktail: Piña colada or lolita sangria • Currently Reading: Run Rose Run by Dolly Parton and James Patterson • Favorite TV Show to Binge-Watch: New Girl • The Beach or The Pool: Beach • Favorite Ice Cream Flavor: Vanilla with rainbow sprinkles- I feel that’s how you tell if ice cream is good, by if the vanilla is good.

• Favorite Disney Princess: Rapunzel- she’s an artist too!

hopefully continue to grow and become a popular stop for home decor and special gifts. Eden knows the value of giving back to the community so she will continue to provide art for auctions such as Paws Charity Auction and Road Dog Rescue. And of course, she will continue inspiring her students as they explore their creative side and learn how art can transform their own lives, just as it did Eden’s.

You can visit Eden’s shop online at www.LittleSparrowGallery.shopsettings.com.

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| Heroines

Tammy McDaniel

Owner, Tammy’s Journeys Fort Walton Beach, FL

written by: Emily Brink photography provided by: Tammy McDaniel

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ammy McDaniel grew up in Des Moines, Iowa, but in 1994 she moved to Northwest Florida where she currently lives in Fort Walton Beach. Growing up, her family consisted of loving parents who supported her and her brother. They encouraged their children and their dreams.

Tammy has incredibly supportive friends who lift each other up when they are feeling down and try their best to help when needed. She is who she is today because of the influential people that have been present in her life and given her guidance when necessary.

Before starting her business, Tammy spent a few years working closely with various chambers of commerce in the area, really learning the ins and outs of operations. Since community chambers are vital to supporting businesses, Tammy knew that when she started her own company it was important to get connected with the Okaloosa County Chamber of Commerce.

She had the honor to serve on various committees as well as on the board of directors for a chamber in the area.

In 2011, after years of working with travel agencies and promoting them in the community, Tammy knew it was time to start her own company.

Tammy’s Journeys is a fullservice travel agency that matches clients with their dream vacation while staying within budget.

Travel is a passion for Tammy and her employees, so it is only reasonable they help others on their journeys.

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Some advice for getting involved in the community is just to start. Start volunteering your time with nonprofit organizations that are dear to your heart and whose mission resonates with your values. Currently, Tammy and her company are part of the Greater Fort Walton Beach, Niceville, and Crestview Chambers of Commerce. This membership helps provide her company with business as well as gives her the opportunity to recommend other businesses in the area. Tammy supports the All Sports Association of the Emerald Coast, Sinfonia of the Gulf Coast, and the Air Force Enlisted Village. She will continue to support these organizations as well as any other opportunities that present themselves.

Being elected to the National Board of the American Business Women’s Association District as their Vice President is Tammy’s proudest achievement. This position has allowed her to grow and get closer to her goals. Her greatest female influence is Michelle Obama. Tammy really admires the way Michelle handled her roles as mother, wife, and First Lady of the United States. Her way of dealing with notoriety and becoming an entrepreneur has inspired Tammy to implement some of those strategies in her own life.

If Tammy could tell her 20-year-old self anything, it would be to be patient, flexible, and kind. Also, if you are

Great Amenities Spectacular Views

• Most-Used Emojis: • Dream Vacation: 20-day African safari • Favorite TV Show to Binge-Watch: Schitt’s Creek - During COVID-19 when we stayed home • The Beach or The Pool: Pool • Favorite Disney Princess: Cinderella

able, start exploring the world now. Don’t wait! When it comes to the interactions Tammy has with her office staff, she hopes to be able to inspire them in their own lives. She has goals for the office and enjoys seeing the growth in her employees. They are becoming expert travel advisors! She strives to inspire future leaders to run for the American Business Women’s Association Board of Directors.

Tammy also started environmental initiatives for recycling that helped start single-stream recycling in Okaloosa County. In the coming years, Tammy will continue to support her local organizations as well as help her clients achieve their travel dreams!

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| Heroines

Nicole Stacey

Director of Marketing & Communications, Visit Pensacola Pensacola, FL

written by: Emily Brink photography provided by: Nicole Stacey

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rowing up with an exuberant personality, Nicole Stacey knows how to light a fire in people and get them excited.

This quality serves her well in her job as Director of Marketing and Communications for Visit Pensacola. Her scope of work revolves around telling the story of Pensacola and allows her to showcase the most amazing place. When it comes to the businesses and community in Pensacola, Nicole is proud to represent them and get tourists excited about visiting.

Born and raised in Fort Walton Beach, Florida, Nicole moved to Pensacola for college and now calls it home. Volunteering brings her so much joy that Nicole will rarely say no when she is asked to give some of her time. To some, her list of community involvement may sound extreme, but she likes to think it makes her who she is and it certainly makes her happy.

Currently, Nicole is the Co-Chair of Leadership Pensacola, President of the Alumni Association for the University of West Florida, the Foo Foo Festival Curator, and is involved with the Florida Public Relations Association, Fiesta Pensacola, and the Krewe of Hiphuggers. That is just naming a few! She loves helping others and becoming a part of their story, so being involved with this many organizations was an easy choice.

Surrounding yourself with supportive people is one of the best ways to succeed in life.

Nicole has curated her list of close contacts to include likeminded, driven individuals who fuel her fire and continue to keep her motivated in her current endeavors. She became the woman she is today because she had a www.ScarlettMag.com

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mother who encouraged her to dream big and never give up on those dreams. She always believed in Nicole’s potential. Her mother raised two girls and often had to work several jobs to ensure their needs were being met.

Her drive and willingness to this day to go out of her way to help a stranger inspires Nicole to do the same. Family is everything and being an “auntie” is one of Nicole’s favorite things. She wants to make sure that when her nephew looks at his “CoCo,” he is reminded that he can do anything in life and that he will always have a squad cheering for him.

Being that person who is organizing fun events and saying yes to opportunities, Nicole is continually building her network of professional connections. Moving back to Pensacola, she wanted to change from being a college student to a professional and finding those connections and cultivating long-lasting relationships gave her that sense of identity she was seeking. The community will wrap you up and take you to places you didn’t even think possible, as long as you are willing to return that energy.

Nicole’s proudest accomplishment is earning a master’s degree in a year, and now, serving as the President of the UWF Alumni Association. Being the face of the UWF Alumni Association, and leading those alumni into the next steps is a great honor. However, singing at a Garth Brooks concert is pretty high on that list too! If she could go back, she would tell her younger self to not take it too seriously, there is plenty of time to figure it out so enjoy it while you can.

Supporting the community is something Nicole will always do. She plans on providing that support wherever she can and finding new ways to improve the community.

Leading by example is her favorite way to motivate, and if she can help you, she will.

• The Beach or The Pool: Beach (obviously) • Go-to Cocktail: I’ll never turn down a blueberry Redbull and vodka or a glass of bubbly prosecco.

• Dream Vacation: Australia, Greece, African safari, and Ireland – in no particular order. I am addicted to travel and experiencing new cultures.

• Favorite Disney Princess: Cinderella

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| Heroines

Sheila Everitt

Realtor, Stars and Stripes Realty Gulfport, MS

written by: Emily Brink photography provided by: Sheila Everitt

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s a native of Mississippi, Sheila Everitt loves her state and the people in it. She was born in Quitman, Mississippi, but currently lives in Gulfport, Mississippi. Before deciding to settle down in her home state, Sheila spent time living all over the country to really get a feel for everything. She lived in cities like Denver, Colorado, and Destin, Florida, just to name a few. After all the jumping around, Sheila knew that the Gulf Coast was where she wanted to grow some roots. She returned to Mississippi and now works as a realtor with Stars and Stripes Realty in Gulfport.

Real estate is a profession that just works for Sheila’s life. She has a great love for people and a passion for business so when she combines those qualities she is ready to go. Getting to where she is today was no easy task. Sheila is who she is today through a whole lot of personal growth. She had to make a lot of wrong decisions to finally figure out how to make the right ones. After a lot of fits and starts, she found her groove and feels more confident in her abilities.

Being involved with the community is important to Sheila and she achieves this by participating in various charitable endeavors. One of her involvements includes being the Scholarship Committee Chair for her Mardi Gras Krewe.

Throughout the year they organize fundraisers and are able to present two local seniors with www.ScarlettMag.com

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scholarships. Sheila also volunteers with the Make-a-Wish Foundation’s golf tournament each year and loves working with those individuals. Over the next few years, she hopes to continue with these involvements and also include some new volunteer positions that she is passionate about.

Sometimes people wish they could go back and give their younger selves a bit of advice. If Sheila could talk to her 20-year-old self, she would tell her to not listen to everyone else and do what you want to do! She would also want to mention that college is not for everyone. There are so many other options out there to explore! Taking the time to know your different options can one day become invaluable.

Sheila’s journey may not have been traditional, but she is grateful for all the people who helped her get here.

It is definitely her proudest accomplishment to have reached the place in life where she is now. Through career changes, city changes, and life changes, Sheila is proud she pushed through to become the woman she is today.

Her mother is her greatest female influence, and Sheila is grateful for her guidance every day.

Helping people hone in on their own skills is something Sheila is especially proud of. During past jobs where she has held managerial roles, she loved the times when people would have a breakthrough and come to understand themselves and their own abilities better. Today, while working as a realtor, Sheila enjoys really getting to know her clients and their needs. She always tries her best to give her clients guidance and help them make the best informed decisions for themselves.

• The Beach or The Pool: I definitely prefer the pool.

• Go-to Cocktail: Tito’s and club soda with a squeeze of lemon. Keep it simple. lol • Dream Vacation: My dream vacation is Santorini, Greece.

• Favorite TV Show to Binge-Watch: I love to bingewatch anything on Bravo.

• Currently Reading: I am currently reading On A Quiet Street by Seraphina Nova Glass. Fun fact, I used to work with the author’s mother-in-law!

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®

MILITARY RELOCATION PROFESSIONAL

WE FIND HOMES THAT FIT YOU

Dane Aho, Broker/Owner

dane@pcsfla.com | pcsfla.com (850) 974-0728 (Mobile) | (850) 664-2510 (Office) 28 A Walter Martin Road NE, Fort Walton Beach, FL 32548 ©2021 RE/MAX, LLC. All Rights Reserved. Pub 1/21 Each Office Independently Owned and Operated. 18_266971

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A.2 Few Good Men.4

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 Gulf 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, a leader but can also take direction. A good man is someone you can look up to.

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| A Few Good Men

Zhalman Harris Owner, Zplus Media Founder, Aletha’s Legacy Destin/Fort Walton Beach, FL written by: Emily Brink photography by: Zhalman Harris

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orn to a middle class family in Monrovia, Liberia, Zhalman Harris dreamed of becoming a pilot.

Unfortunately, when he was 17 those dreams were made obsolete when Liberia entered into a civil war. His innocence was shattered when he was exposed to famine, air strikes, executions, and so many atrocities no one should ever endure, let alone a child who still had a whole future ahead of him. The war left Zhalman an orphan, and he escaped to Ghana as a refugee. He waited patiently until his time came to relocate to the United States, unsure of his next steps in life.

Even with such a tumultuous past, Zhalman has an impressive list of accomplishments. After moving to America, he worked his way up to managerial positions in Fortune 500 companies. He has spent time in front of the camera as an actor, as well as recording and producing an album focused on the lessons he learned about the value of life. If he could go back and tell his 20-year-old self anything, he would say to go after what you want and don’t second guess yourself. He must have taken his own advice because one day he realized he didn’t want to work in corporate America any longer. Zhalman moved from Minnesota to Destin, Florida, where he runs his own photography business, Zplus Media, and started a nonprofit to help children in Liberia.

During Zhalman’s time as an actor photography became an interest. Being in front of the camera got him interested in what happened behind the scenes. Zhalman’s greatest accomplishment is creating his nonprofit, Aletha’s Legacy. The mission of the organization is “to provide hope for the future to the children of Liberia by providing quality education in a safe environment.” They accomplish this by renovating and building entire schools, from the classrooms and library to the cafeteria, restrooms, and office. Their staff and volunteers provide a great environment to learn, improve the health and sanitation of the school, and prepare three meals a day for orphans who had no hope.

Every child in this world deserves a proper education, Zhalman and his team are taking the steps necessary for that to become a reality.

The name for the organization was inspired by Zhalman’s greatest female influence, his mother. Aletha was the only female civil engineer working with a group of men building highways in Liberia. Her resilience taught Zhalman that you could do anything you set your mind to. Aletha was always so giving. She would give you the clothes off her back or the last $5 in her purse. Her toughness really showed through during her struggles as a young mother.

Aletha was killed by a bomb during the civil war in Liberia. Zhalman gathered what he could and laid her to rest in a makeshift grave. He knew then that he would build a legacy to honor her and her accomplishments. She left him with the impression that he was never better than anyone and to always treat people the way you would want to be treated.

As a humanitarian, Zhalman does his best every day to make a positive difference in the world. Even with so much pain and sadness associated with his home in Liberia, he wants to do good. His actions are inspired by that urge to return to the place he fled from and become a part of the solution. His life story is a vast one filled with hard losses and significant successes. However, the one constant thing is his ever present need to do something good and worthwhile with the time he has been given.

You can find more information about Aletha’s Legacy at www.AlethasLegacy.org.

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| A Few Good Men

Michael Duncan

Realtor, Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Main Street Properties Pensacola, FL

written by: Emily Brink photography by: Jessica Duncan

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“ f it is worth doing, it is worth doing to the best of your abilities.” This sentiment is something Michael Duncan tries to implement into his own life. He enjoys showing people how to take pride in their own work and pulling out the largest potential in individuals. Michael was born at the Naval Hospital in Jacksonville, Florida, and spent his childhood moving from one tropical island to the next.

His family lived in Guam, Hawaii, and Cuba before finally landing in Pensacola, Florida, which he considers his hometown.

Today Michael lives in Gulf Breeze, Florida, where he works as a Realtor with Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Main Street Properties on the Jessica Duncan Team.

With his construction background, Michael can give an added level of advice to his clients to help them understand the buying and selling process clearly. He enjoys his job and the ability to help people find their dream homes, investment homes, and vacation homes. Working with his wife of 22 years has been quite the adventure. Jessica is easily his greatest female influence. He feels lucky to have found the love of his life early on so that each year they can continue making life better and better. She is always cheering him on and pushing him to be the best version of himself. Jessica taught Michael how to approach a daring goal with excitement instead of fear of failure and that failure is just one step closer to success!

Many people have the desire to give back, but they do not know where to start! That was the case for Michael.

It wasn’t until he became a member of Krewe of SWAT that he finally found an outlet in which to give back to the community. Krewe of SWAT is a Mardi Gras Krewe that opened doors for Michael to understand ways he could contribute to the community through local nonprofit organizations. A few of the other charities Michael is involved in include Manna Food Pantry, Rally Pensacola, Who’s Your Caddy benefitting Mr. Robbins Neighborhood, and Gulf Coast Kid’s House. He especially enjoys the process of collecting goods and volunteering at their events to help make sure they run smoothly. Michael has given of both his time and his money to help others in the area and plans to continue in these endeavors and any others he can fit into his schedule.

One thing he likes about his job is their program called Closings for Charities. With each sale, a certain percentage

is donated to a local charity of the buyer’s choosing. This allows Michael to build an awareness for local nonprofits as well as giving the buyer that rewarding feeling of giving back to the community.

Michael’s bit of advice would be to take a chance on yourself. It is important to remember that some of the time, those chances you take will fail, but those failures can be a learning opportunity to keep moving forward. As long as someone doesn’t get bogged down by these failures, they will continue to grow as an individual. Like most people, Michael’s life was not always easy. He has had his share of challenges and made his share of mistakes, but he is proud of the ways these challenges have changed him. Michael has become a more caring and understanding person while cultivating the life he wants to live. He is looking forward to seeing what happens next!

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| A Few Good Men

Royce Duplessis Attorney, Duplessis Law Firm, LLC New Orleans, LA

written by: Emily Brink photography provided by: Royce Duplessis

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hile in his early years, Royce Duplessis learned so much from his parents. They taught him about kindness and the need to give back by serving the community around them. They really fostered a charitable spirit in Royce that has followed him to this day. Royce grew up in New Orleans, Louisiana, and returned back to his hometown to grow his roots, raise his family, and support the city he loves.

Currently, Royce is serving as House Representative for District 93 in Louisiana. He was elected in 2018 and is excited to continue serving as long as possible to hopefully make the life of his constituents better. His goals when running for office, and still today, are to better serve those who are marginalized by focusing on living wages, increased access to a quality education, and smarter policies in the criminal justice system. Royce currently serves as the Vice-Chair of the House and Governmental Affairs and is a part of the Commerce Committee, House Executive Committee, and House Select Leadership Committee. He is happy to be making real changes in the lives of the people who elected him.

When he is not working in his political sphere, Royce is working as a lawyer at his office, Duplessis Law Firm, LLC, where he mostly focuses on criminal defense and civil litigation cases. After receiving his undergraduate degree from Xavier University of Louisiana, Royce moved to Washington, D.C., to attend the Howard University of Law. While there, he founded the Howard Energy and Environmental Law Society which puts a big emphasis on advocating for the environment. Becoming a practicing lawyer is no easy process. Passing the bar and actually being a lawyer is Royce’s greatest accomplishment. He loves what he is able to achieve with that background. Over the course of his adult life, Royce was also working with other politicians on their staff to begin getting a feel for the life of a public servant. It must have suited him because he kept at it and is enjoying the life he lives now.

One thing Royce would go back and tell his 20-year-old self is to appreciate every moment. There is no need to rush through life. You will get there when you get there, and in the meantime, it is important to take advantage of the moments you are currently experiencing. Royce is a proud husband who cites his wife as his greatest female influence. He also loves being a father and all the joys that come along with that title.

Giving back to the community is not a new thing for Royce. When Hurricane Katrina hit he spent time trying to rebuild the devastation through political and physical efforts. He has also volunteered with Silverback Society since 2012, which is a program to provide male teenagers with mentors. The biggest way Royce is currently trying to give back is by influencing laws and policy that will improve the community and make his district a better place to live. Royce is constantly encouraging those around him to be better and keep trying harder. He hopes that those under his leadership will benefit positively and continue to strive to make the world a better place.

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The

Snackle Box.3 written by: Emily Brink

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ave you ever been sitting on a boat or running errands around town when that craving for some cheese and crackers hits you but you can’t do a thing about it? The “Snackle Box” is your solution! It is something you can make ahead of time and take just about anywhere with you. It is 100% customizable and definitely eco-friendly.

The only question is: What exactly is a Snackle Box? Well, it’s a combination of snacks and a tackle box. Wait, hear me out! If you're not familiar, a tackle box is used by fishers to separate and contain all kinds of fishing tools, from hooks and weights to lures and baits.

The idea is to be able to see everything you have and take what you need.

Kind of like a charcuterie board!

With a Snackle Box you can take a brand new (or really deeply cleaned) tackle box and fill it with different foods you like to pair together.

Basically, anything you would put on a charcuterie board can be put into these little boxes and enjoyed on the go.

Portability is the biggest incentive to create a Snackle Box. Throw one in your backpack to eat between classes, add it to the ice chest for a day out in the sun, stuff it in the diaper bag in case of emergencies, and even include it in your carry-on for all the airport munchies. Anywhere you go, a Snackle Box can go too! They are your vacation necessity.

Stuck on ideas? Snacks like nuts, meats, cheeses, and crackers pair beautifully. If you are craving something sweeter, try combinations of fruit and chocolates. Most tackle boxes have more than enough spaces, so add both flavors! A quick Google search returns countless options for tackle boxes. Choose the one that best fits your needs, fill it up, and keep on snacking.

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Happy Hour |

Coconut

Cocktails written by: Courtney Murray

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o you find yourself becoming bored with your cocktail routine? Sick of ordering a basic old gin and tonic time and time again at happy hour? Next time you’re looking to help take your drink up a notch, look no further than the magical elixir of coconut. Whether it's coconut milk, coconut cream, or coconut water, this special ingredient brings a creamy element and tropical vibe to any drink it accompanies. If you can’t bring yourself to the beach, bring the beach to your glass. Everyone associates coconut drinks with the Piña Colada, but there are so many more options out there. You can expand beyond rum and combine this tropical ingredient with tequila or vodka for fruity twists on classic cocktails.

Have you ever been on a tropical vacation and stopped at a fresh coconut stand? My husband and I found ourselves lost when driving on the winding roads in Hawaii when, like an oasis in the distance, we spotted a fresh coconut stand! We quickly pulled the car over and were on our way to a refreshing treat. After carefully choosing two oversized green coconuts, the man running the stand whipped out his machete. No cause for alarm, he just used it to slice off the tip of the coconut; sending the top piece spinning in the dirt. All that was left to do was stick in a straw and drink up the deliciousness.

Coconut milk, coconut cream, and cream of coconut have been used in cocktails forever. Coconut water cocktails are newer to the scene and come with the added benefit of electrolytes, minerals, and hydration with your booze. That means that your fruity cocktail is basically a health drink right?? Maybe that’s a stretch, but you’re certainly helping your situation by adding coconut water to your beverages, especially as the summer heat rolls around. You can even get a fresh coconut and add your alcohol and other ingredients to the existing coconut water inside. Add a cute flower for flair and a fruity garnish on top and you’ll be sure to impress your guests and instantly be feeling those vacation vibes.

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Bourbon Coconut Milk Punch 1 ¼ oz bourbon ½ oz coconut rum 2 oz of coconut milk ½ oz simple syrup ¼ tsp vanilla extract Freshly grated nutmeg

Sparkling Strawberry Gin Cocktail 6-8 fresh strawberries 2 sprigs fresh mint 1 tsp sugar 1 oz gin 3 oz coconut water 3 oz soda water

In a cocktail shaker filled ¾ with ice, combine bourbon, rum, coconut milk, simple syrup, and vanilla.

Shake and strain into an icy rocks glass and top with freshly grated nutmeg. Enjoy!

In a cocktail shaker, muddle strawberries, mint, and sugar.

Add ice, gin, and coconut water and shake vigorously. Strain over ice and top off with soda water.

Garnish with fresh strawberries.

Coconut Martini

Wild Coconut

2 oz vodka ½ oz lime juice 1 oz cream of coconut Toasted coconut flakes for garnish

10 blueberries, muddled 10 mint leaves, muddled 1.5 oz tequila, blanco .5 oz lime juice 1 oz coconut cream

Toast coconut flakes on a skillet, taking care to not burn them, and then spread it out on a plate.

Dip the edge of a martini glass in extra cream of coconut, then in the toasted coconut. Shake all the ingredients in a cocktail shaker with two handfuls of ice and shake until cold. Strain into a martini glass.

Sip your worries away!

recipe provided by Wild

In a cocktail shaker, muddle blueberries and mint. Add ice, tequila, lime juice, and coconut cream and shake vigorously. Strain over fresh ice in a glass. Garnish with blueberries, a sprig of mint, and shredded coconut.

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Let's Get Physical |

axe

Th.3rowing written by: Courtney Murray photography provided by: ToDoInDestin location: The Ratchet Hatchet

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taying active and having fun while doing it is the perfect combination for a night out. Stray from the typical “dinner and a movie” date night and opt for a throwback activity like putt putt golf or go-karts. The rise of driving range facilities like Top Golf brought golfing for fun to the mainstream. No need to be a pro, you can swing the clubs while sipping a beer and enjoying a burger. The next big trend we’ve been seeing pop up all over the country combines fun, a good workout, and maybe even a little danger … axe throwing! Whoever came up with this concept was really thinking outside the box and is probably a genius because there are now many axe throwing venues along the Gulf Coast. Clearly this adventurous night out trend has made its way to our beautiful beach towns and cities; providing a unique activity for a group of friends, team building work event, date night, girls night out or bachelorette and bachelor parties. After signing a waiver and a short tutorial on axe throwing rules and etiquette you’re off to the races. Your group has a designated lane with a wooden target at the end to aim toward. Many axe houses allow you, if you have a prize-winning axe you love, to bring it and show up your friends. You can even bring your own food and drinks. Cheers!

While axe throwing is certainly a good time, it’s also a pretty great arm and core workout. Between stabilizing

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Scarlett’s Picks for Axe Throwing Along the Gulf Coast Axe Throwing PCB

Panama City Beach, FL AxeThrowingPCB.com • 850-249-4790

30A Axe Throwing Co. South Walton County, FL/30A Santa Rosa Beach, FL 30AAxe.com • 850-517-4520

Gulf Coast Axe House

Miramar Beach/Destin, FL GulfCoastAxeHouse.com • 850-842-2890

The Ratchet Hatchet

Fort Walton Beach, FL TheRatchetHatchet.com • 850-533-4014 your core before the big throw and lifting an axe above your head time and time again before hurling it forward with enough force to stick into the wooden target, it’s safe to say you might be feeling like you hit the gym the next morning. There’s no experience necessary and anyone can do it; making it the perfect activity for a party or group celebration of any kind. When you can BYOB to throw axes with your friends you know you’re in for a good time!

A throwing coach will ensure you have the proper technique and understand the fundamentals during your throwing session.

Some axe houses are taking it up a notch with pool, darts, pong, foosball, cornhole, and a craft beer and wine bar in addition to the axe throwing. What more could you need for a fun night out? You can even join an axe throwing league in some locations. If you’ve been looking to shake up your normal routine or you’re bored of going to the same bars on a Saturday night, then look no further than axe throwing. You’re sure to have an adventure you won’t soon forget.

Grizzly Axes

Pensacola, FL GrizzlyAxe.com • 850-741-4700

Civil Axe Throwing

Orange Beach, AL CivilAxeThrowing.com • 251-202-3099

Strong Arm Axe Throwing Mobile, AL StrongArmAxeThrowing.com • 251-408-9499

Skal Axe Throwing Biloxi, MS/Covington, LA GCAxe.com • 228-365-2298

Stumpy’s Hatchet House New Orleans, LA StumpysHH.com • 504-577-2937

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Tour of Homes Pensacola |

Is Now the Time to

Sell Your Home? with Special Guest Writer

Jessica Duncan

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house in your neighborhood goes up for sale at what you consider a high price. You think to yourself, there is no way they will get that price. Within three days, it has multiple offers and is under contract. Upon this news, you start thinking, how much could I get for my house? Is now the time for me to sell my home? You are not alone in this thinking.

People always ask me, “Is now the right time to sell my home in the current market?” It is a decision most homeowners are contemplating. People want to make the best financial decision with one of their most significant investments. Like the advice we have all heard for the stock market, you want to buy low and sell high. Is that possible? Can you buy low and sell high?

Of course, this is a grand theory and sounds like a great goal.

Since there are so many different scenarios you could be

in, we will talk only about your primary residence for this conversation. The house you live in right now. The market is up, so you probably could take advantage of the equity in the home. Let’s say you decide to sell. The next question is, where will I live? Do you purchase another home now? I have even heard people say, “I will rent until the market comes down.”

There are two issues with renting until the market goes down.

The first is rent is also up dramatically. You will most likely be paying higher rent than your current mortgage for not as lovely of a house. That does not sound like fun! The other issue is that you will be building someone else’s equity in a property, not your own. If it is in your primary residence and you don’t have another place to live, the theory of selling high and buying low does not sound possible.

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When does it make sense to sell? If your current home is not meeting your needs, it may be a great time to sell. You may want to downsize, need more room, or want to move to a different part of town. In all these situations, you can sell, take the equity from your home, and move it to a home that better fits your current needs. A great example of this is a couple I just helped upsize their home. They purchased their first house a few years ago, shortly after getting married. Since then, they have had two beautiful children and need more room. I sold their first home for substantially more than they paid for it.

They rolled these profits into their new home. This transition provided this family with the additional space they needed while keeping their home payment the same as their first house. They achieved more room and upgraded the house with

the same monthly house payment. What a great situation!

I had another couple that were empty nesters. They found themselves not needing as big of a house and had not used their pool in years. I was able to sell their larger home so they could purchase a smaller home that offered less maintenance. We used their equity in their larger home to buy the new house, leaving them with no mortgage. They downsized their home, lowered their monthly expense, and no longer had a mortgage to pay each month.

Is now the time to sell your home? My question is back, what do you want to change about your current home? If there are things you want to change, now is an excellent time to sell!

If you are looking for something different from your existing home, such as more space, less space, or another part of town, 61

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using the equity in your current home toward a home that better fits your needs makes sense. It is the closest thing achievable to buying low and selling high with your primary residence. Give me a call today to discuss your options.

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 12 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 IMPACT100 Pensacola Bay Area, an all-women philanthropic organization.

1313 Creighton Rd • Pensacola, 32504 850.554.1783

WOTYS

TOP THREE

If you’d like to recommend a home to be featured, email Jessica at Jessica@JessicaLoveDuncan.com. www.ScarlettMag.com

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| Foodie

Sk.3ewers written by: Emily Brink

S

ome people call them skewers and some people call them shish kabobs, but everyone calls them GOOD! Summer is barbeque season, therefore it is the best time to try some new grilled recipes. So next time you’re meal planning, consider giving skewers a go. Not only are they delicious, they are a really fun way to add protein and vegetables to your meal.

Every dish can be a little finicky, so if you are worried about messing it up, here are some tips and tricks to guide your process: If you are using wooden skewers, soak them thoroughly in water to avoid burning them.

Cut all ingredients to the same dimensions to avoid overcooking larger pieces and undercooking smaller pieces.

Give the pieces some space between each other on the skewer. This will allow for airflow to avoid crisping the edges of the vegetables and give the meat an even cook.

Choose softer vegetables. Everything else on the skewer will burn before carrots or potatoes soften.

If you are still unsure or afraid to give it a shot, the easiest way to make sure you aren't burning the food is to cook them separately. That means having meat on one stick and vegetables on another stick. No matter how carefully you watch, or how precisely you stack the foods, meat and vegetables do cook at different paces, and it is okay to make recipes work for you!

Remember, this is directed toward using a barbecue, but if weather is bad or you don't have access to a grill, lay them flat on a baking sheet, pop them in the oven at 425 °F and cook for about 10-13 minutes, or until the meat is cooked to an appropriate temperature.

Here are two savory recipes to get your creativity going. Skewers can be totally versatile, so don’t limit yourself!

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Classic Beef Skewers

Pineapple Pork Skewers

For Marinade: ⅓ cup soy sauce ¼ cup lemon juice ½ cup olive oil ¼ cup Worcestershire sauce 2 teaspoons minced garlic 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning 1 teaspoon black pepper ½ teaspoon salt ½ teaspoon onion powder

For Marinade: 1 cup crushed pineapple with juice ½ cup soy sauce ½ cup honey ¼ cup vegetable oil ¼ cup chili sauce 3 tablespoons cider vinegar 2 tablespoons minced garlic 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes 1 teaspoon ground ginger ½ teaspoon black pepper

For Skewers: 2 pounds lean steak such as sirloin or New York strip 1 large red onion 1 red bell pepper 1 green bell pepper

1. Combine all marinade ingredients in a bowl or resealable gallon bag.

2. Add meat and marinate for at least 2 hours or up to 24 hours.

3. Season vegetables with garlic salt and pepper to taste.

4. Stack beef, peppers, and onions onto skewers.

5. Grill on medium heat, turning frequently to avoid burning.

6. Enjoy!

For Skewers: 2 pounds pork loin 1 fresh cut pineapple Optional Ingredients: Red onion Fresh mango Red bell peppers

1. Combine all marinade ingredients in a bowl or resealable gallon bag.

2. Add meat and marinate for at least 2 hours or up to 24 hours.

3. Stack pork, pineapples, and any other additions onto skewers.

4. Grill on medium heat, turning frequently to avoid burning.

5. Enjoy!

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story + photography provided by: JAMNOLA

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JAMNOLA

linged-out umbrellas, giant crawfish, feather chandeliers, a sequined gator, and a virtual costume closet are just a few of the quirky, unexpected, interactive exhibits guests will soon be able to explore at JAMNOLA, New Orleans’ first experiential pop-up that takes audiences of all ages on a topsy-turvy stroll through the cultural gems that make the city so special. New Orleans is arguably the city in the U.S. most associated with joy, art, and music, which was the catalyst for two New Orleans Bywater residents to team up with Where Y’Art to create their love letter to New Orleans: JAMNOLA (Joy-Art-Music-New Orleans).

JAMNOLA is 5,400-square-feet of pure NOLA joy, celebrating the iconic art, music, food, and theatrics of the city through the eyes of 20 local lead artists. This passion project was founded by Jonny Liss and Chad Smith in creative partnership with Where Y’Art, a New Orleans-based artist collective that served as curator, artistic director, and creative partner of the experience. Local legend George Porter, Jr. curated the music. A percentage of JAMNOLA’s proceeds will be donated back to New Orleans charity partners Trombone Shorty Foundation and Feed the Second Line.

"JAMNOLA has been more than a decade in the making. Since I first stepped foot in New Orleans 28 years ago, I knew this city was special," said Jonny. "I wanted to create a tribute to the city’s people and invest in the culture. Teaming with Where Y’Art is what made it come together. JAMNOLA is a love 67

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letter to New Orleans — her joy, her beauty and grit, her resilience. We love to share it with tourists and especially locals. The experience is really indescribable."

JAMNOLA features 12 rooms for guests to explore. Most rooms feature photo opportunities, encouraging guests to share their experiences with friends on social media. www.ScarlettMag.com

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JAMNOLA features a personalized microsite available to all guests providing access to photos, videos, and a "Cultural Concierge" that curates content by local experts on everything from po-boy recommendations to outdoor adventures using proximity activation technology.

JAMNOLA is also partnering with WWOZ Radio to provide guests with music guidance after the tour.

"JAMNOLA is a first-of-itskind, immersive experience that promises to satisfy the needs and interests of visitors to New Orleans and provides an opportunity to explore an art pop-up and celebrate New Orleans’ ageless unique music, art, and culture," said Stephen Perry, President & CEO of New Orleans & Co. Tickets are $29 and can be purchased online at JAMNOLA.com for tours starting with special discounts available to students, military, and Orleans Parish residents on Mondays and Wednesdays. Starting Aug. 1 JAMNOLA’s hours of operation are Sunday-Monday, Thursday 11 a.m.-6 p.m. and Friday-Saturday 11 a.m.-8 p.m.; closed on Tuesdays & Wednesdays.

This fantastical guided storyteller experience lasts approximately 60 minutes.

More information and tickets available at www.JAMNOLA.com. www.ScarlettMag.com

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| About Face

In.3 the Cup.3s written by: Liesel Schmidt

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f you keep up at all with spa trends, chances are you’ve heard of cupping. To break it down, it’s a form of alternative medicine that uses heated cups placed on the body to create suction on the skin. As weird as it may sound, the purpose of cupping is to alleviate aches and pains as the suction promotes increased blood circulation, which may help relieve muscle tension, promote cell repair, and aid in other regeneration.

Shocker: It almost always leaves cup marks behind, but those residual circles serve a diagnostic purpose. In fact, the size, shape, and color of the marks are believed to indicate the amount of cellular waste buildup in your system. As your lymphatic system processes the waste the marks fade. Kind of like a really strange mood ring on your body, no?

As off-the-wall as cupping therapy may sound, facial cupping has recently become a thing — though it does differ from body cupping in some very important ways. Both are based on the same principle of repair, but facial and body cupping are performed differently. Facial cups are typically smaller and softer than those used on the body. These smaller cups are used to gently pull the skin away from deeper layers of fascia, which increases blood flow to the area and revitalizes the skin without those unsightly cup marks. Big sigh there, huh? Lord knows there’s enough down-time with chemical peels, so why add another reason to hide from public view like a vampire?

So what does this unique — ahem, read: weird, we know you’re thinking it — procedure do? Over time, it improves the complexion and diminishes fine lines and wrinkles. And who doesn’t love that? It also increases oxygen-rich blood circulation, strengthens the skin and connective tissues, stimulates the cells responsible for collagen production, and relaxes muscle tension in your face. As a result, you’ll see brighter skin; greater tone in your chin, jawline area and neck; decreased puffiness; better absorption of all those lotions and potions you slather on; regulated oil production; and minimized scars in addition to the fine lines and wrinkles that you’ve waved bye-bye to.

Sounds great! So how exactly does the magic happen? The suction from the cups pulls blood into the skin underneath the cup, which also saturates the surrounding tissue with fresh blood and encourages the formation of new blood vessels.

At the same time, the vacuum-effect of the suction separates different layers of tissues, which causes microtrauma and tearing that induces an inflammatory response from your body.

Then, the “traumatized” area is flooded with white blood cells,

platelets, and other healing aids. Et voila, all the pieces are in place to give you that more youthful look you’ve been trying to get from a medicine cabinet full of products.

So now you’re asking yourself, what the downside is, right?

You’re not wrong, there can be side effects. But before you smirk in self-satisfaction that you knew it sounded too good to be true, side effects are usually minor. In most cases, they occur during or immediately after the treatment and include temporary dizziness, lightheadedness, nausea, or cold sweats.

Not terrible, right? And certainly nothing worse than you’ve experienced after putting away a bottle of wine (girl, we know you have, so don’t even.) A note to remember before booking an appointment is that facial cupping should be avoided if you have broken or inflamed skin. This means active breakouts, rashes, and sores.

Obvi, this is an experience worth trying out. After all — all you’ve got to lose is wrinkles.

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Q: Does facial cupping cause wrinkles?

A: No, facial cupping does the opposite and actually minimizes wrinkles.

Q: Does facial cupping increase collagen?

A: Yes, it promotes the production of collagen.

Q: Will it leave bruises?

A: Not if done correctly. However, bruising can occur if the cup is left in the same place too long. Discoloration can occur in as little as five seconds, so the cup must keep moving.

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P.2erfect The

Vacation Destination.3 written by: Liesel Schmidt photography provided by: HarborWalk Village

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he glittering towers of the Emerald Grande resort stand like a sandcastle at the foot of the Destin bridge, anchored in the fishing village and creating an escape into paradise. Much the way an all-inclusive resort creates its own bubble of experiences, amenities, and attractions, Emerald Grande sits with pride amidst HarborWalk Village, offering luxury accommodations only an elevator ride away from restaurants, bars, and shops … and, of course, the spectacular Destin Harbor and all that it entails.

Within the towers of Emerald Grande, you will find well-appointed two-, three-, and four-bedroom condos featuring a living room, dining area, fully-equipped kitchen and private balcony. Four-bedroom, four-bathroom corner units are 1,840 square feet, showcase amazing views of the Harbor and East Pass, and can sleep 8 to 10 guests — perfect for families or groups of friends traveling together.

For a truly delicious dining experience, the Grande Vista Bar & Grill is open daily offering breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Menu favorites include everything from mouth watering burgers and sandwiches to fresh, locally caught seafood. Grande Vista offers room service, beach service, and poolside dining.

Guests can take in all the sunshine at the Grande Vista Pool Deck or at Emerald Grande’s private beach. Grab a craft cocktail at the pool bar and enjoy lunch al fresco by the pool. During summer months, the pool deck features DJ dance parties, live music, grill-outs, and divein movies! Take a catamaran ride to dip your toes in the sand at Emerald Grande’s private beach. Beach chairs and umbrellas are included in your reservation, so relax in the shade, work on your tan, or float the waves.

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After a day in the sun, pamper yourself with a spa day and leave refreshed, recharged, and renewed. Located on the second floor of the West Tower and boasting stunning views of Destin’s East Pass and the Gulf of Mexico, the Spa at Emerald Grande is a Europeanstyle spa whose practitioners are highly skilled experts in a wide range of restorative treatments including massages, skin treatments, and hand and foot therapies. The extensive spa menu includes specials and packages and is fully customizable to meet individual needs, providing a level of personalized care.

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Ready for something new? Venture to HarborWalk Village, the epicenter of Destin’s nightlife, entertainment, and waterfront activity, which is only an elevator ride away. Located in the heart of the Destin Harbor, you’ll find everything you could imagine. No matter your interest, there’s something for everyone. Want to enjoy some time being active on the water? Check out paddleboard, kayak, pontoon, and jet-ski rentals, or book a parasailing adventure, glass-bottom boat tours, pirate ship excursions, dolphin cruises — and of course, world-class fishing charters. Being the home of the Destin Fishing Fleet — which holds the title as the largest charter fishing fleet in the country — there’s never a shortage of boats for a fishing adventure.

Junior members of the family will love the Adventure Zone, and foodies will find heaven at the fantastic restaurants that are around every corner.

With all the great local fishing comes “pier-to-plate” dining, so seafood lovers are never far from a feast. Clearly, the whole family will find endless ways to spend a vacation — or staycation — here.

HarborWalk Village also features a lively, year-round event calendar that features live music, weekly fireworks shows, parades, festivals, and more!

For a listing of upcoming events, you can visit www.harborwalkvillage.com.

With so much to do and see, Emerald Grande at HarborWalk Village is the perfect destination for a vacation or staycation that you’ll never forget.

www.ScarlettMag.com

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| Body Talk

written by: Courtney Murray

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H.2airy.5

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Situation

eauty is in the eye of the beholder. As women, we undergo countless routines and daily steps to keep up with our appearance and to maintain the impossible standards of “beauty” society puts on us. The “requirements” in today’s world for women is exhausting just to think about. It is literally head-to-toe care — all the time. Imagine the horror of running into Christy at Publix without a fresh blowout! Or meeting Sherry for an afternoon lunch just to look down and be shocked at the sight of a chipped and grown out manicure! While it’s easy to joke about, a lot of women truly feel this pressure to look a certain way all the time. The key is finding which self-care tasks you are doing because they make YOU feel happy and confident and which ones you can skip because they were only being done to impress others. So, let’s go down the laundry list of what beauty routines many women follow: - Hair color, cut, and style - Skin routine for morning and night - Regular facials - Manicures and pedicures - Body skin maintenance and self-tanner - Hair removal - Makeup routines that are constantly evolving

While none of these things technically fall under personal hygiene, for many women they feel like they are necessary steps to look and feel their very best. One item on the list that isn’t for everyone is hair removal. For centuries women have been removing body hair; the practice being traced back to ancient Rome and Egypt. Some of the first razors were used in Egypt and India around 3000 BCE and were made of copper. Before that, some razors were made of seashells and were used to shave women’s heads and bikini areas … talk about razor burn! Egyptians were also trailblazers in waxing, removing hair with sugar-based waxes similar to modern-day waxing practices. Luckily, time and technology have taken us leaps and bounds from the days of shaving with shells. Everyone remembers the 1970’s Nair commercials of the spunky women in hot pants singing “Who wears short shorts?” This breakthrough product was one of the first to offer an alternative to plain old shaving.

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In today’s society there are numerous methods of hair removal to choose from, making your smooth-as-a-seal skin easier to achieve than ever before. Many modern women are looking to remove hair on their face, armpits, arms, legs, bikini lines, and beyond as painlessly and effectively as possible. The options range from cheap and easy with shaving, to expensive and high-tech with laser hair removal.

There are slightly more painful, yet effective methods like plucking and waxing. These methods can make hair take longer to grow back as well, and who doesn’t want that.

Waxing is a great way to remove large amounts of hair with traditional wax or sugaring with a natural sugary substance.

The wax is applied to the skin and then a paper strip is placed on top and is pulled off in the opposite direction, effectively pulling out the hair with it. Plucking is easily done at home, but is time consuming and tweezers in the wrong hands can have catastrophic results to your brows.

This is why many women are turning to the professionals with unique techniques like threading. Laser hair removal has gained popularity over the years but is very pricey and even after multiple treatments, is considered permanent hair reduction, not elimination. If hair removal is what you’re seeking, it’s time to dive into researching your options so you’ll be ready for summer.

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P.2ickleball written by: Emily Brink

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I

t was a warm summer day in 1965 when Joel Pritchard and Bill Bell realized their families were in need of a fun summer game. They scoured the Pritchard property on Bainbridge Island, an island just west of Seattle, Washington, and came up with ping-pong paddles, a perforated wiffle ball, and a badminton net. Not having enough equipment for a regular sport, the men invented a new game to entertain their children. Quickly, the game got serious enough to intrigue other friends and they had to set some rules. Over the next few weeks, Joel, Bill, and their friend Barney McCallum hammered out the specifics and finally, they had a real game that provided endless entertainment. It wasn’t until the sport started growing that the creators realized it needed a name. The Pritchards had a sweet dog named Pickles and somehow or another, they called their new game Pickleball. Today, Pickleball is still gaining traction and more and more people are falling in love with the sport.

The question is, what exactly is Pickleball, and what makes it so fun? Pickleball is played on a badminton court as a team in doubles, or one-on-one as singles. The game involves players serving the ball

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over the net and passing it back and forth between each other until someone misses and a point is scored. Think tennis but on a smaller court and a ball that is not as heavy. The rules are fairly straightforward and have a relatively simple learning curve. Since Pickleball was designed with families in mind, the game can definitely accommodate people of all ages and skill levels. Bring it to a family reunion and enjoy watching the generations come together in competitive spirit and good-natured fun.

Pickleball is the fastest-growing sport in the United States, and it is even gaining traction in the international sphere. If you really get hooked on Pickleball, you can join a league in your area and participate in tournaments with other players. The game is fast-paced and exhilarating, which makes it a perfect mode of exercise. Whether you want to get together with friends and break a sweat, or if you are looking for some new people to hang out with, joining a Pickleball league is something to consider.

Getting started with Pickleball is fairly easy because it does not require a ton of expensive equipment. All you really need is a net, a court, a ball, and some paddles.

Considering that Pickleball courts are popping up all over town, you shouldn’t have to worry about finding one. Many cities are retro-fitting established tennis courts in parks and community centers to include lines for a Pickleball court. If your neighborhood is missing a court, a makeshift court with tape or chalk works great. The only thing you will need to bring is a paddle, a ball, some appropriate exercise clothing, and a good attitude!

If you are planning a fun vacation this year, check out if the resort offers a Pickleball court. With the rise in popularity, many resorts are beginning to offer it as an amenity. They may even offer lessons and equipment rental, which would provide the perfect opportunity to give this new sport a go and see how you like it! Check out your local rec center or order some cheap equipment from Amazon. Chances are you will love the exercise and social aspects of the game. Before you know it, playing Pickleball will be your favorite activity. www.ScarlettMag.com

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2023

WOTYS

WOMAN OF THE YEAR details coming soon

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| Get Ready with Me

Backy.2ard BBQ Get

written by: Courtney Murray

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et’s set the scene. It’s mid-summer and the late afternoon sun is setting with a slight warm breeze blowing the wind chimes hanging from the old oak tree. You’re lounging on your back deck in an Adirondack chair sipping a cold frothy beer.

Kenny Chesney’s Summertime is playing on the outdoor speakers, and the smell of hot dogs and hamburgers roasting on the grill is wafting through the thick summer air. You’re surrounded by good friends, delicious food and laughter; this is the quintessential backyard BBQ. Once you’ve perfected your potato salad recipe, it’s time to perfect your barbeque fashion. For a backyard BBQ you don’t want to be too dressy or too casual, you want the curated, laid-back yet chic aesthetic. There’s four categories a girl can fall into during this summer’s BBQ season, and we are going to break it down for you.

1. The Casual Guy’s Girl: This is the girl who is posted up at the cornhole boards, sipping a summer shandy, and challenging all of the boys. She’s effortlessly cool and the kind of chick everyone wants to be friends with. She can always be spotted wearing the perfectly worn-in denim cutoffs; not too short, not too destroyed, just right. Her shorts are usually paired with a cute crochet top or the “cool girl uniform” of a black or white bodysuit. The accessories are minimal, and the footwear is

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usually simple sandals or white sneakers. If she’s feeling really fancy, she might tie a cute flannel or chambray shirt around her waist.

2. The Southern Belle: She is the one who makes plaid tablecloths and deviled eggs look elegant. Her outfits are understated and flowy, a simple white linen dress or a chic matching shorts set. She’s the guest at the barbeque that seamlessly moves from helping mix up mint julips in the kitchen, to entertaining guests with stories from her summer travels to the Cape.

She’s put together without trying too hard, and her outfits are as impressive as her hors d’oeuvres. Her accessories are sweet gold hoops or a single pair of pearl earrings. Classic brown leather sandals complete the look when paired with a straw hat.

3. The Cute Picnic Chick: This girl is the

goldilocks of the summer barbeque, not too done up and not too casual. She’s just right. You 93

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can never go wrong with plaid. Whether it’s a plaid dress or a plaid top in either a sweet small gingham or an oversized print, you’ll always look the picnic part. If plaid isn’t your thing, a classic strappy black cotton dress paired with straw slides or cute sneakers is always a hit. Any type of headwear is appropriate from a beaded headband to a simple baseball hat, this girl can pull off a variety of styles.

4. The Trendy BBQ Gal: There’s some girls that stick to what they know, staying classic and true to their core style. Then there’s other girls that jump on any trend being flashed across TikTok and love a social outing as an excuse to show off their latest styles. This girl might show up to one BBQ in denim overalls and a tank top and to another in a floral romper with wedges. She’s a fashion chameleon and is never one to blend into the crowd. If her outfit is understated, she ramps up the accessories. If she chooses a bold ensemble, she knows to keep her accessories minimal. She’s no stranger to the fashion world and definitely knows how to navigate it.

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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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Vladimir

The Flatshare

by Julia May Jonas

by Beth O’Leary

And so we are introduced to our deliciously incisive narrator: a popular English professor whose charismatic husband at the same small liberal arts college is under investigation for his inappropriate relationships with his former students. The couple have long had a mutual understanding when it comes to their extra-marital pursuits, but with these new allegations, life has become far less comfortable for them both. And when our narrator becomes increasingly infatuated with Vladimir, a celebrated, married young novelist who’s just arrived on campus, their tinder box world comes dangerously close to exploding.

Tiffy and Leon share an apartment.

Tiffy and Leon have never met.

With this bold, edgy, and uncommonly assured debut, author Julia May Jonas takes us into charged territory, where the boundaries of morality bump up against the impulses of the human heart.

Propulsive, darkly funny, and wildly entertaining, Vladimir perfectly captures the personal and political minefield of our current moment, exposing the nuances and the grey area between power and desire.

[Best Seller]

After a bad breakup, Tiffy Moore needs a place to live. Fast. And cheap. But the apartments in her budget have her wondering if astonishingly colored mold on the walls counts as art.

Desperation makes her open minded, so she answers an ad for a flatshare. Leon, a night shift worker, will take the apartment during the day, and Tiffy can have it nights and weekends. He’ll only ever be there when she’s at the office. In fact, they’ll never even have to meet.

Tiffy and Leon start writing each other notes – first about what day is garbage day, and politely establishing what leftovers are up for grabs, and the evergreen question of whether the toilet seat should stay up or down. Even though they are opposites, they soon become friends. And then maybe more.

But falling in love with your roommate is probably a terrible idea … especially if you’ve never met.

[Beach Read]

A Special Place for Women

by Laura Hankin For years, rumors have swirled about an exclusive, women-only social club where the elite tastemakers of NYC meet. People in the know whisper all sorts of claims: Membership dues cost $1,000 a month. Last time Rihanna was in town, she stopped by and got her aura read. The women even handpicked the city’s first female mayor. But no one knows for sure.

That is, until journalist Jillian Beckley decides she’s going to break into the club. With her career in freefall, Jillian needs a juicy scoop, and she has a personal interest in bringing these women down. But the deeper she gets into this new world — where billionaire “girlbosses” mingle with occult-obsessed Bohemians — the more Jillian learns that bad things happen to those who dare to question the club’s motives or giggle at its outlandish rituals.

The select group of women who populate the club may be far more powerful than she ever imagined.

[Book Club Worthy] 97

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Everything I Need to Know I Learned From a Little Golden Book

by Diane Muldrow Filled with humorous, practical tips for getting the most out of life, this Little Golden Book “guide to life” is the perfect keepsake gift to celebrate birthdays and other new beginnings and milestones for readers of any age who cherish the classic little books with the gold foil spines!

This humorous guide offers advice for getting the most out of life, the Little Golden Book way! Drawn from beloved classics like The Poky Little Puppy, We Help Mommy, and many more classics, important lessons such as “Remember to stop and smell the strawberries,” “Don’t forget to enjoy your wedding,” and “Be a hugger” are paired with iconic images by Richard Scarry, Eloise Wilkin, Mary Blair, Garth Williams, and more.

[Self-Improvement]

Greenwich Park

by Katherine Faulkner In this “gloriously tangled game of cat and mouse that kept the twists coming until the very last moment” (Ruth Ware, #1 New York Times best-selling author), Helen’s idyllic life — handsome architect husband, gorgeous Victorian house, and cherished baby on the way — begins to change the day she attends her first prenatal class.

There, she meets Rachel, an unpredictable single mother-to-be who doesn’t seem very maternal: she smokes, drinks, and professes little interest in parenthood. Still, Helen is drawn to her. Maybe Rachel just needs a friend. And to be honest, Helen’s a bit lonely herself. At least Rachel is fun to be with. She makes Helen laugh, invites her confidences, and distracts her from her fears.

But her increasingly erratic behavior is unsettling. And Helen’s not the only one who’s noticed. Her friends and family begin to suspect that her strange new friend may be linked to their shared history in unexpected ways. When Rachel threatens to expose a past crime that could destroy all of their lives, it becomes clear that there are more than a few secrets lying beneath the broad-leaved trees and warm lamplight of Greenwich Park.

[Thriller] www.ScarlettMag.com

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Be the Change |

Fresh.6 Start.3

written by: Liesel Schmidt photography provided by: Fresh Start for Children and Families

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here are so many sayings about how to achieve success in life, how to attain self-sufficiency, how to claim your place in the world. But sometimes it’s not so simple. Sometimes there are circumstances that overshadow opportunity, that knock even the most resourceful people into a place that they can’t seem to find their way out of. For organizations like Fresh Start for Children and Families, offering that way out and reaching out a hand to help someone up is the very mission that drives them, giving the less fortunate members of the community a chance at a “fresh start.”

Created in 1987 as the Okaloosa Coalition for the Homeless by several local churches, the organization provided the homeless a place to shower and receive mail as well as access to a food pantry. The coalition also owned four small apartments used as temporary housing. In 2014, in response to the lack of programs serving homeless families with children, the coalition built ten apartments and changed their focus, renaming themselves Fresh Start for Children and Families. The organization then purchased the apartment building across the street in 2016, adding to the programs they offer.

“Our mission statement is ‘to share love and compassion through a comprehensive educational, vocational, and economical housing program to help homeless families

achieve self-sufficiency,’” explains Executive Director Donna Tashik. “We utilize three programs to do this: our Transitional Program, Affordable Program, and Repeat Street Thrift Store.

We like to say we are not a hand-out, but a hand up, as we are not free nor an emergency shelter. Those who enter our program must be drug- and alcohol-free, have no violent charges in their background, have no open warrants for their arrest, and be employed or employable. We charge 20 percent of however much they are making in program fees, and 10 percent of their income goes into a savings account, for use when they leave us.”

Clearly, Fresh Start is about looking to the future and setting their families up to succeed on their own. The Transitional Program is a nine- to 12-month program for new clients, during which Fresh Start provides the family with a two- or three-bedroom, fully furnished and outfitted apartment with power, water, and Wi-Fi. It is their responsibility, however, to get the power and water placed in their name within one month. “Our goal is for the family to be able to come to us the first day and be able to cook a meal and sleep in a clean bed,” says Donna.

The Affordable Program is the next step up from the Transitional Program. “The rules are less strict, and rent is 101

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charged,” Donna explains. “Clients must be able to afford $650 per month for a two-bedroom, $850 for a three-bedroom. This is preparation for leaving us, when rent will be more expensive.

The clients can stay here for up to two years as they continue to save money for moving out into the community.”

The Repeat Street Thrift Store provides the furnishings for Fresh Start’s apartments, as well as over 50 percent of their funding. The rest of their funding comes from donations, grants, and their $250 Club, which is committed annual donations of $250.

Naturally, there are challenges with operating organizations such as this. “We face generational problems within families as well as depression and drug and alcohol abuse,” says Donna.

“Our programs are not easy. We require clients to be drug and alcohol free, testing upon entry and reserving the right to surprise test throughout their stay. Our clients must attend weekly meetings with our Life Skills Manager, where they establish goals on the first meeting, and work on accountability following. They must also attend our Wednesday night Life Skills classes, where we work to focus on things such as budgeting, credit repair, parenting, self-worth, and other things that may have helped them get to this point and will hopefully help them achieve self-sufficiency. We also provide GED assistance, tutoring for children, a sitter for the children during class, and are working to initiate a scholarship program.”

As difficult as the work may be and as many challenges as will certainly arise, Fresh Start and organizations like it are critical to the health of the community. “Most everyone goes through

a rough patch in their life,” says Donna. “Whether due to poor decisions, abuse, divorce, loss of a job or just not knowing any better, everyone needs a hand up at some time. When there are children involved, it becomes that much more imperative to find help. But while handouts abound in our society, they do not actually fix anything. So getting a hand up, a fresh start, a chance to catch your breath, to have your family in a safe, nurturing environment while you figure it all up, is a gamechanger. We are the only organization in our area doing what we do. I believe that in the coming years, we will need to see many more.”

For more information on Fresh Start for Children and Families as well as ways to get involved or donate, visit freshstartfl.com.

www.ScarlettMag.com

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| Sweet Tooth

G.3rilled F.3ruit Sk.3ewers T.2he Ingredients

5-6 peaches, sliced 1 pineapple, cut into 1-inch cubes 1 loaf pound cake, cut into 1-inch cubes Neutral oil (avocado, canola, or grapeseed) Salt, to taste Honey, for drizzling

D.2irections

1. Preheat your grill to a medium-high heat.

2. Skewer your prepared fruit and cake as follows: peach, cake, pineapple, cake, and repeat.

3. Once all the skewers have been assembled, drizzle with oil, and season with salt.

4. Place skewers on the grill and cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway. Fruit should be tender and have a slight char.

5. Remove from heat and drizzle with honey.

6. Serve warm and enjoy!

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Celebrating the Places and Faces of Fort Walton Beach

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Welcome Home |

The

Perfect Patio

written by: Emily Brink

S

ummer nights are a time when people naturally gravitate together to enjoy warm air and good company.

They gather together with friends, family, neighbors, and community members to build relationships and memories.

Cultivating the perfect hangout spot on your patio is the best way to ensure that your guests are comfortable and will want to keep coming back for more and more fun times.

When deciding what to include in your cozy patio space there are some key elements you don’t want to miss. First is seating. Guests need a place to sit down and kick up their feet. The kind of seating that will be best depends on the space you have. Think about mixing and matching the sizes to give guests some options! Another important element is some kind of cover. Whether you choose a classic umbrella or go for something more natural like vines climbing an archway, your guests will be grateful for the shade.

Often these gatherings last well after dark, therefore good lighting is essential. You can use outdoor string lights to create a soft yellow glow, tiki torches to tie in the beach feel, or solar lights that charge throughout the day.

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A good patio space does not have to cost an arm and a leg. A really great resource when looking for some amazing patio furniture is second-hand stores. Thrift stores are full of unique items that can really enhance the space. Whatever goes on the patio will be susceptible to the weather so it is important that the furniture you get is either waterproof, or that you do not care if it gets a little beat up from the weather. Another great place to look is Facebook Marketplace.

Oftentimes, people will sell things at a discounted price just to avoid hauling it to the donation center.

One final touch to add to your patio scene that can easily become the star of the show is a grill.

Summer grilling is a classic mark of a good time and provides endless opportunities for creativity.

From cooking up this month’s skewers, to a nice steak, to some grilled fruits and vegetables, grilling is a surefire way to satisfy your guests.

Whatever way your patio space comes together, make sure it is a place you want to keep coming back to.

www.ScarlettMag.com

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| Anything He Can Do...

Anything

Can Do...

Meredith McIntosh photography by: Shanna Magnuson

Hometown Fort Walton Beach, FL Current Residence Fort Walton Beach, FL Occupation Head Instructor, Emerald Coast Sailing Association Special Skills Sailing Coach and Racer

How did you get interested in your occupation?

Living on the coast means many opportunities to play on the bays, bayous, and gulf. Out of all the watersports, I chose sailing as my passion when I was 13 years old. A friend of mine invited me to sail in a race at Fort Walton Yacht Club. I was on the Frantic owned by George Goodall, where his wife, Fran, made us sandwiches (called Franwiches) and sent us off with good luck. With full sails, our legs hanging off the boat, and seeing the sun sparkling on the water, I realized wealth is overrated and these are the only diamonds I want. Sailing felt like a piece of me that had been rediscovered. After all, humans have been sailing since before history books were written. Soon after, I joined the Niceville High School sailing team and learned how to race small boats called dinghies. These boats were 420 one-design racers, meaning each boat was 420 centimeters long and of “one design,” so competitors had equal opportunity to win. Whether it was rigged right was up to the sailors themselves and half the battle of racing. This boat was made for the young and lively and is used by high school and college students today.

Typically, only two sailors compete on this boat, and it has two sails. I started out as the crew, who controls the front sail, otherwise known as the jib, and helped keep the boat level with bodyweight positioning. In other words, I kept the jib sail trimmed with maximum efficiency while keeping the boat upright by sitting on the high side of the boat. Learning to crew was easy, learning to skipper was www.ScarlettMag.com

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a totally different experience. It wasn’t until my junior year of high school that I started skippering (steering) and that was when I knew this would be a lifelong sport.

There’s technique to steering as the boat doesn’t have a wheel; it has a tiller connected directly to the rudder, and a tiller extension you hold to direct the tiller. The saying, “Slow is smooth, smooth is fast,” was revolutionary. I was not a legendary sailor in high school, I rarely won a race and don’t have any first-place awards for regattas.

Heck, I barely finished above last place more times than I can count. However, even sitting in second-to-last, I felt the wind on my face and watched the sun sparkle on the water, probably damaging my retinas, and remember thinking, “I don’t want to be anywhere else in the world right now.”

How long have you been practicing your trade?

I have been racing for ten years now. Started when I was 13, but many start younger. I have seen a little 6 year old on an Opti with the sail cranked in and full on hiking out in a 10-knot breeze. True, she was the daughter of a world-class sailor in Rhode Island. Meanwhile, none of my family sails, but it came so naturally. Sailing and racing are synonymous to me. Sure, I could take some friends out on a Hobie Wave and cruise around, but I’ll still be trimming and steering as if I were racing a ghost.

There’s no point in sailing ineffectively, it just seems lazy to see your sail luff and wish the boat were going faster.

She can’t help but to reflect on the nature of your effort.

She’s an inanimate chunk of fiberglass and aluminum made just for you to step aboard and give it some personality. This is what I try to teach the young sailors at the Emerald Coast Sailing Association summer camp.

Tell us a little about your favorite part of the job you do.

My favorite part about teaching kids to sail is seeing that spark, the light switch on, as they realize what the sailboat is meant to do and their role in encouraging it. The most rewarding part is seeing the young kids frown from an early morning check-in turn into a crazed, joyous smile as they horse around on the water.

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

Being able to fully pull in a sail in high winds and pull kids out of the water is physically empowering. But, the most empowering thing is being able to put on my “coach voice” and actually see the kids listen.

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

If I had one piece of advice for the other women in my trade, it would be to go for it!! What will you lose if you don’t? What are the odds of actual failure, and how bad would that be compared to not trying?

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

Having women role models, especially ones who act in a non-gendered way, to young kids can help effectively even the diversity gap in our community.

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

When I started sailing, women were typically crew and the males were the skippers. Now more than ever I am seeing women steering boats and calling the shots, getting wins, and kicking ass.

Words you live by…

‘Memento mori. Tempus fugit. Amor fati. Anxiety dances, you can overcome.’

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| Get the Look

the Vacation Kohl’s: Indoor Outdoor Throw Pillow

West Marine: Deep Utility Box

Vineyard Vines: Pop Stripe Weekender Bag

Oriental Trading: Cocktail Party Umbrella Picks

Blue Milk & Honey: Sugar Body Wax

World Market: Washed Cotton Smock Apron

www.ScarlettMag.com

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