letter from the Associate Publisher Expand Your Horizons – Travel!

March is a month of transition, when the days become longer and the weather begins to warm, bringing with it a sense of renewal and growth. The world around us starts to come alive again, with brighter days and fresher air as we emerge from the cooler winter months. As the sun shines brighter and the days grow longer, we can look forward to the many activities surrounding our beach community.

At VIP Destin Magazine March is one of our busiest months, as people are eager to get out and participate in social events. I laugh to myself as I write that; February was a whirlwind of activity, and yet we know the next month will be even more hectic. In this issue, you will see that our team covered a variety of events, from Brunch Fest to the Emerald Ball. As we move through the next few weeks, our photographers will attend as many social gatherings as possible and we will end the month with our very own Black Tie Ball celebrating the winners of Best In Destin 2023.

As tourists plan their trips to visit us at the beach, I’m curious to know what many of you have planned for your annual travels. Obviously, we all go to different places for our vacations, so I’m interested to hear where you’ve been. Every adventure should leave you with great memories to share. Drop me a note if you have some good ones to share.

I eagerly anticipate the nal weekend of March, as it marks the start of my annual adventure motorcycle ride in the mountains. Every year, I travel to Tennessee to reunite with old friends and revel in the beauty of the mountains, streams, and forests. Riding on dirt roads and trails provides me with a unique perspective of the area, allowing me to witness and experience things that the average tourist would never come across. As I ride along, I can’t help but think of the classic Southern meals that await me at the local eateries nestled in the Appalachian Mountains. I know I won’t be losing any weight as I indulge in fried chicken, cornbread, and Memphis-style barbecue. As you plan your summer remember -- once you become fearless, life becomes limitless.

If you know of a non-pro t or charity holding an event you would like to see featured in VIP Destin Magazine, please call me. Our mission at VIP Destin is to support as many non-pro t causes as possible. Follow VIP Destin on our social media channels and follow me on Facebook @VerlaParsonsPrice. Thank YOU for supporting VIP Destin; please be kind, courteous, and shop local.

Verla@VIPDestin.com

It was a magical scene at the Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa, with gorgeous blooms and shades of emerald green filling the resort’s aptly-named Emerald Ballroom. The Emerald Ball, the annual event hosted by Ascension Sacred Heart Foundation, took place on February 4 with dinner, music, dancing, and much more.

Dozens of guests dressed to the nines gathered in the ballroom’s foyer for cocktails and mingling before the dinner began. The event was black tie and attendees were encouraged to wear shades of green. Proceeds from this year’s ball are benefiting the acquisition of a state-of-the-art CT scanner for Pediatric and Adult patients at Ascension Sacred Heart Emerald Coast in Miramar Beach. This event is one of four major events organized by the foundation each year. The foundation was formed in 1984 to enhance the future healthcare needs of the Gulf Coast. According to their most recent annual report, foundation donors and fundraisers brought in nearly 40 million dollars between fiscal years 2017 and 2021.