VIE - People + Places / Winter 2009 by The Idea Boutique

NORTHWEST FLORIDA – COLA 2 COLA

COMPLIMENTARY WINTER 2009

The Art of Life Northwest Florida Ballet A Ruby Anniversary

Perspectives Escape to Create’s Fall Writers Conference An in-depth review by Prudence Bruns

Behind the Lens Journey Performs Live Photographer Jessie Shepard Captures the Magic

Plus The Life of a Snowbird Birds of a Feather Paint Together

30A Songwriters Festival A Celebration of Songs

A Legendary Wedding Giveaway At Emerald Grande – Our first GiVIE

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Illustration by Izak Zenou represented by trafficnyc.com

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In this issue:

116

128

32 People + Places Panama City Welcomes Southwest Airlines 24 Pensacola Events 37 An Evening of Jazz with Gary Fields 114 Animoré 134

For the Love of Food George's – Whimsical Perfection 70

The Art of Life A Priceless Legacy 26 Birds of a Feather Paint Together 32 30A Songwriters Festival 39

Perspectives My Pilgrimage 86 Down to the Sea with Paper, Pen, and Time 94 Now That the Hat Is Out of the Box, the Possibilities Are Endless 104

Voyager Multifaceted Guatemala—Central America’s Secret Gem 43

A Sense of Place Panama City Centennial Celebration 112

The Written Word Sister Schubert Book Signing 50

Giving Girls Inc. 116 Mercy Ships: Serving the Forgotten Poor 124

Behind the Lens The Journey Continues 52

New Beginnings A Legendary Wedding Giveaway at Emerald Grande 74

Get Out Northwest Florida Golf Trail 128

Feature COLA 2 COLA Holiday Gift Guide 58

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Published by:

VIEzine.com

(850) 231-3087 114 Logan Lane, Suite 4 | Grayton Beach, FL 32459 www.theideaboutique.com

VIE Contributors: Freelance Staff:

Contributing Photographers:

Contributing Writers:

Margaret Stevenson Copy Editor

Pat Crawford Kim Duke-Layden Lisa Ferrick Goode Green Photography David Mendelsohn Brenda Rees Romona Robbins Taris Savell Jessie Shepard VUE Photography www.EastHillPhoto.com

Harley Benner Prudence Farrow Bruns Pat Crawford Laurie Crowley Marianne Duffey Kim Duke-Layden Crystal Hamon Karen Jazayeri Tori Phelps Brenda Rees Marie Ryan Sandra Woodward

Michelle Smith Ad Design Jessie Shepard Photography Romona Robbins Photography

On the Cover: Northwest Florida Ballet dancer Jennifer Jones during a VIE photo shoot to celebrate the company's Ruby Anniversary. VIE art director, Eric Shepard, VIEtvâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s videographer, Tim Dutrow, and photographer Jessie Shepard, worked with Northwest Florida Balletâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s artistic director and CEO, Todd Allen, to capture the artistic beauty of dance and the spirit of the holiday season. www.NFBallet.org Photo by Jessie Shepard

Story on page 26

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VIE Creative Team:

ADMEN Back Row – Tracey Thomas, Mary Jane Kirby, Tim Dutrow, (Left to Right) Eric Shepard, Crystal Hamon, Bob Brown, Lisa Comeau Front Row – Lisa Ferrick, Gerald Burwell, Lisa Burwell, (Left to Right)

Jim Ryan

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Photo by Jessie Shepard / www.jessieshepard.com Hair Stylists – Brooke Miller at Head to Toe Salon Gina Shiflett at Salon Twist Leah Powell at Salon Twist Makeup Artist – Two Fishes Artistry Jewelry – Destin Jewelers Photo Location – Fish Out of Water

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COLA COLA Distribution Areas by County:

ur stories and distribution cover COLA 2 COLAâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;Pensacola to Apalachicola. We explore the people and places of our region in

the pages of VIE - People + Places. The magazine is found in all the Tourist Development Council Centers, Chamber of Commerce locations, Sundog Books in Seaside, Florida, boutiques, restaurants, bed & breakfast locations, special events and much more! We are excited you have picked up a copy of VIE and hope you enjoy

exploring the people and places of our coveted area. We have a passion for VIE, our area, and the people and businesses found within and hope you will share in the excitement and know that we live in a great place and that, "life is good."

VIE: People + Places is a registered trademark. All contents herein are Copyright ÂŠ 2009 Cornerstone Marketing & Advertising, Incorporated (The Publisher). All rights reserved. No part of this periodical may be reproduced without written permission from The Publisher. VIE: People + Places is a life-style magazine of Northwest Florida (COLA 2 COLA TM) and is published quarterly. The opinions herein are not necessarily those of The Publisher. The Publisher and its advertisers will not be held responsible for any errors found in this publication. The Publisher is not liable for the accuracy of statements made by its advertisers. Ads that appear in this publication are not intended as offers where prohibited by state law. The Publisher is not responsible for photography or artwork. The Publisher reserves the right to publish any letter addressed to the editor or The Publisher. VIE: People + Places is a free publication and shall not be resold. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to CORNERSTONE MARKETING & ADVERTISING, INC., 114 Logan Lane, Suite 4, Grayton Beach, FL 32459; (850) 231-3087.

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Lisa and Jerry Burwell on The Quiet Man Bridge, Connemara, County Galway, Ireland. (Fall 2009)

Publisher & Editor Review

ur note has a staccato cadence since there are so many things to mention in our first Holiday Issue. Many milestones that have been in the making for a long time have come to fruition. We invite you to soak it all in and get ready to savor the pages of VIE as we celebrate one of the most beautiful and glorious times of the year— winter at the beach! BLUE SKIES AHEAD The jubilant and official announcement made by St. Joe and Southwest Airlines on Wednesday, October 21, 2009, that service to the new airport—Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport—is scheduled to begin in May 2010, is a sign of hope for our area’s economic health. It is also the result of the tremendous work and perseverance of so many people and companies—Coastal Vision 3000/THE Beach, The St. Joe Company, Beaches of South Walton, Bay County TDC, and the Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport. VIE thanks you all for being the driving force behind the scenes for several years that has made this happen. Welcome, Southwest Airlines!

VIEzine.com

A LEGENDARY WEDDING GIVEAWAY Also in this issue, VIE debuts its first GiVIE with Emerald Grande and Legendary, Inc., who will be giving away A Legendary Wedding to a lucky bride and groom. The winning couple will be announced at Commander’s Palace at Emerald Grande on Valentine’s Day—Sunday, February 14, 2010. It’s easy to enter…just visit www.GiVIEs.com to register to win or to learn more about this dream wedding that could be yours! THE NEW AND IMPROVED VIEZINE WEBSITE GOES LIVE! We invite you to visit our new and exciting www.VIEzine.com as you meander through a Web wonderland created by Cornerstone Marketing & Advertising’s VP of Creative Services, Bob Brown. To say he has worked tirelessly on this project would be an understatement—it is his Sistine Chapel! An integration and navigational execution of content, photo galleries, banner ads, blog, and VIEtv along with our online magazine will hopefully keep you coming back for more. We can’t thank him enough for working nights and weekends to bring you this thrilling extension of the magazine. Thank You!

HAPPY HOLIDAYS! VIE’s first Holiday Gift Guide is tucked inside this issue with gift ideas from COLA 2 COLA. Gifts ranging from YOLO Boards to jewelry to a magnificent Alys Beach home grace the Gift Guide, so check it out! Our friends, colleagues, and neighbors own the restaurants and shops in the area, so please consider purchasing your holiday gifts from them this year, as keeping our money in our own backyard is being neighborly. Please shop locally, and think globally.

–Lisa & Gerald Burwell Life is a gift…celebrate to the finish line.

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HAMPTON 18

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Photo by Jennifer Cappi Williams

ISLAND VIE - Winter 2009

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Rice Canal is a beautiful and elevated one-acre parcel surrounded by a canopy of century-old live oak trees. It is so named because it sits on a bluff overlooking a marsh canal that was once used to manage tidal water for the old rice fields. On the water side, it offers spectacular views of the coastal marshes, and on the other, views of the stunning equestrian stables and horse paddocks.

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PEOPLE

PLACES Panama City Welcomes Southwest Airlines Southwest Airlines was named the official low-cost carrier of the Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport on October 21, 2009. To hear the good news, media crews, county commissioners, and business and community leaders gathered with bated breath at the construction site of the terminal building for the new airport. Gary Kelly, president and CEO of Southwest Airlines, made the official announcement on a big-screen via Skype from Southwest’s Media Day in Dallas, Texas. As official word was received, the crowd jumped to its feet cheering, waving pom-poms, and bouncing Southwest beach balls in the air. Beginning May 18, 2010, Southwest Airlines will offer two flights per day to four different destinations, which will be officially announced in December 2009. Photography by Lisa Ferrick

Bob Montgomery – Vice President of Properties for Southwest Airlines

Joe Tannehill and Dana Williams

Paul Wohlford and Michelle Lacewell

Bob Montgomery, Dana Williams, and Britt Greene

Left to Right: Charlie Clary, Brad Drake, Marti Coley, Jimmy Patronis, and Jeff Kottkamp 24

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Dana Williams – Director of Marketing and Communications for Southwest Airlines

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VIE - Winter 2009

Northwest Florida Ballet Celebrates its Ruby Anniversary By Tori Phelps Photo by Jessie Shepard

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In the late 1960s, professional ballerina Bernadette Clements Sims turned down a job offer from dance luminary Robert Joffrey in order to follow her new husband to Fort Walton Beach, Florida. That momentous decision robbed the international dance world of a gifted performer, but it has had life-changing results for hundreds—if not thousands—of people associated with the company she founded and directed for twentysix years: the Northwest Florida Ballet. Forty years later, the company pays tribute to the woman who made it all possible and celebrates the scope of her vision. SHARING A GIFT As a little girl in Mobile, Alabama, Sims learned she was flat-footed—a perfectly ordinary diagnosis that would have very extraordinary implications. “My pediatrician recommended that my mother enroll me in dance class as therapy, and I fell in love with it,” she says simply. Unlike most other little girls who dream of being a ballerina, it soon became apparent that Sims could actually achieve that dream. “It started to become realistic at about age eleven as my technical and performance skills grew. It was an easy decision. There’s a definite end to a dancer’s career, and you want to do something with it if you have the ability.” She eventually attracted the attention of famed dance pioneer Robert Joffrey, who

Photo provided by Northwest Florida Ballet

invited her to dance with the Joffrey Ballet in New York City. At the same time, her childhood sweetheart asked for her hand in marriage—which meant moving with him to Fort Walton Beach. She chose love, a decision that she still thinks about but doesn’t regret. It took Mr. Joffrey a little longer to come to terms with her refusal. “I ran into him one time at a festival, and it had been years since I’d seen him. He said, ‘I’ve forgiven you for stopping to dance.’ It was interesting that he remembered me because he saw so many dancers. Maybe it was because nobody ever told him ‘no’,” she speculates.

Of the decision to give up a chance at ballet stardom, Sims says, “It was a crossroads in my life. I chose a path, and I wanted to make the best of the path I took.” That new direction included founding a ballet company in an area that, to put it kindly, was not known for the arts. “Dance had always been a part of my life,” she explains, “and when I moved to Fort Walton Beach there really wasn’t any dance here. I was riding the bus back and forth to Mobile to take classes and perform with the Mobile Ballet, but leaving at 7 a.m. and getting home at 11 p.m. got VIE - Winter 2009

old really quickly. I finally decided that if I was going to be happy, I was going to have to create a dance community.” She opened her first ballet school in 1965 and founded the Fort Walton Beach Ballet in 1969 to craft a more professional atmosphere in which advanced ballet students could perform. Brushing off kudos for accomplishing such a feat at a remarkably tender age, Sims laughs briefly. “I was young and stupid,” she says. “It never occurred to me that it wouldn’t be successful. There were a lot of people along the way who said it couldn’t be done, and that made me want to do it even more. I never thought of myself as being ambitious, but I guess I was.”

Many students who trained with Sims went on to become professional dancers, but she’s just as proud of the ones who chose other professions. “Former students often point to the discipline they learned performing with the Northwest Florida Ballet as part of the basis for their success in their chosen careers. People who are involved in ballet are very intelligent people; you just don’t think about that aspect because they’re so physical.” Sims, whose daughter assures her that she’s flunking retirement, still teaches two advanced ballet classes each week, as well as several character dance classes. “It’s been hard work,” she admits. “It’s still hard work. But I love seeing the talented young dancers and helping mold them into polished performers.”

A NEW ERA Sims did such a good job of molding one of her students that she asked him to take over the reins as artistic director and CEO fourteen years ago. Of Todd Eric Allen’s transition to director, she says, “I called him one day in Canada, where he was performing with Les Grands Ballets Canadiens, and asked him if he was ready to be retired from dancing because I was ready to retire from directing. He said, ‘no.’ About a month later the phone rang, and he asked if I was serious. When I said I was, he said he was ready to come home.” Allen still clearly recalls the day he agreed to return to his hometown. “It was freezing cold in Canada, and the beach sounded pretty good,” he chuckles. In reality, he was ready for something other than the constant performing and training he had subjected his body to over the many years of his illustrious career. “I wanted to come back and give these kids what I wish I had—an introduction to ballet at a young age. I was going to do something like this anyway, and I wanted to do it here at home.” Like his mentor, it took a medical condition to get Allen into a dance studio for the first time. But unlike Sims, he was well into his teens before it happened. “I was fourteen when I met Bernadette,” he remembers. “I had been playing football at school in Fort Walton, and I tore my hamstring. My doctor sent me to ballet for rehab. Then Bernadette very sweetly said, ‘We need guys at the ballet, so why don’t you be in a performance?’ She trained me, and I danced for a year before receiving a scholarship to go to the Joffrey.”

Photo provided by Northwest Florida Ballet 28

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After five years of intense training at the Joffrey, Allen earned a scholarship to Virginia Intermont College. He kicked off his professional career with the Louisville Ballet, followed by the Boston Ballet and Les Grands Ballets Canadiens. Interwoven were highlights like dancing at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington, D.C. for Presidents George Bush and Bill Clinton; being one of only fourteen dancers asked to perform in Ocean Dance 2000, which featured Mikhail Baryshnikov; and choreographing diverse ballets that have earned him critical praise.

“It’s still hard work. But I love seeing the talented young dancers and helping mold them into polished performers.” —Bernadette Clements Sims

Photo by Jessie Shepard VIE - Winter 2009

In the years since debuting as director of the Northwest Florida Ballet on its twenty-fifth anniversary, Allen has significantly expanded upon Sims’ creation, and she isn’t shy about singing his praises for moving the company forward. Perhaps no contribution has been more significant than his development of the NFB Académie, a program that partners with the Fort Walton Beach school district to provide select students with both an academic and artistic education. Allen was inspired by a similar program to which he was introduced during his time with the Boston Ballet. “Citydance was one of the first outreach programs in the country. They go into schools and identify talent in the children, and the kids are bused out of school several times a week for classes.” Years of hard work and relationship building with the school district paid off in 2002, when the Académie was launched. Allen says that while this full immersion style of training may sound odd in the U.S., it’s been done for hundreds of years in Europe. “Big companies—like the Royal Ballet in London—hold auditions for children, screen them based on talent and ability, and then most of the children live there in a dormitory situation. It takes ten years to train a classical ballet dancer, and when you do it this way, it’s ideal. I wanted to take that idea and make it American,” he explains.

“EVERY CHILD IS AN ARTIST” Every year the Académie holds open auditions for all second-grade children in the district, and typically about 130 to 140 kids show up. Previous experience isn’t necessary because Allen isn’t judging them on skill. “I’m looking at flexibility, coordination in their body, and their desire to dance,” he says. Of course, not everyone who auditions gets into the Académie, which educates kids from third to eighth grade. “There’s always a waiting list,” Allen says. “It was never meant to be a school for five hundred students.” Not surprisingly, the Académie features dance lessons every day, but Allen maintains that its focus on academics is superior to similar 30

VIE - Winter 2009

“This lady teaching dance in the middle of all these sports? She had to be very strong willed to deal with everything that was thrown her way. I respect her a lot for giving me—for giving all of us—an opportunity.” —Todd Allen European schools. “In addition to the normal curriculum, the kids have French twice a week because that’s the language of ballet, and then they have music once a week and study dance history and terminology. The kids thrive in this environment. There are no attendance issues because they all want to be here.” The school must be doing something right because the Académie has been ranked an A school by the state of Florida. “That means we have the highest percentage of students who achieved above-average rankings on standardized testing,” Allen explains. The most surprising aspect of the program has nothing to do with the curriculum. It’s the cost, which is zero. Children who are selected are given the keys to a new world—and their families don’t pay any more than they would for a public school, which is what the Académie is. No doubt due in part to his own modest background, Allen goes to great lengths to remove the elitist stigma from ballet. “Often it’s the wealthiest people who can afford to get their kids training, and it’s these kids who are then accepted to a ballet company. Here, we’re leveling the playing field. Twenty-four percent of our students fall into the free or reduced-price lunch program. We try as hard as we can to get into the low-income community so every child has the same chance. And then the kids wear uniforms to school, so there are no ‘haves’ and ‘have-nots’.” Allen calls the relationship between the Ballet and the school district a great partnership. “It’s very unique in this country, but I think it’s the future. Opera companies, museums—

they should all have schools like this. That’s how you secure the future of these art forms: it’s from teacher to student. It can’t be reproduced on the computer screen.” Though the Académie ends after eighth grade, the Ballet’s involvement with its students does not. The kids attend high school in Fort Walton, and they’re bused to the Ballet after their academic day to continue their training—a necessary commitment if the students hope to achieve a professional career in a ballet company, on Broadway, or as an instructor. “I think most of these kids want to dance professionally,” Allen confirms. “They see professional dancers here in the form of their teachers, not to mention the guest artists who come in. They see it and begin to understand that they can get paid to dance, that you can be an artist and contribute to society the way everyone else does.” It seems to be working. Allen reports that Académie students have been accepted to prestigious programs such as the Joffrey, Orlando Ballet, and San Francisco Ballet. Implementing this exceptional approach to American ballet training is only the first act for Allen. “In the future I think we’ll have the ability to expand the program to include elements like a visual arts focus, a theatre focus, etc., so students can try out different arts. Picasso said, ‘Every child is an artist. The problem is how to remain an artist once we grow up.’”

A CELEBRATION FOUR DECADES IN THE MAKING Remaining artists isn’t a problem for the dancers who will take to the stage in the fortieth anniversary season, which kicks off with

The Nutcracker November 21 and 22. Though technically retired from dancing, Allen will be on stage in the role of the godfather to central character Clara. This familiar Christmas staple will be followed by the company’s second production, Dr. Coppelius’s Magic Toy Shop, March 20 and 21. The entire season is planned as a tribute to everything that Northwest Florida Ballet has achieved over the past forty years, but one night in particular has been reserved for that purpose alone. The Ruby Celebration, January 30, at the Emerald Grande in Destin, will feature food, music, and a performance by the Company, along with a photographic journey through the Ballet’s growth over the years—both artistically and physically. “We’re steeped in tradition, but we have exciting new works: Balanchine’s Agon, for example,” Allen says. “We perform classical ballets like Romeo and Juliet, Cinderella, and The Nutcracker, but we’re also committed to contemporary and modern dance.” The Company’s physical space has seen some major growth as well. “We’ve gone from Bernadette’s house to our beautiful studio in downtown Fort Walton,” Allen says. “And we’ve actually been a catalyst for rebuilding the downtown area. Whenever I came back over the years, I saw that the downtown was becoming a ghost town. I knew I wanted to change that if I was ever given the chance. So we bought a little Japanese restaurant, raised money for a few years, and then we built our 13,000-square-foot facility, the Sybil Smith Lebherz Center for Dance Education. We also lease space across the street for academic classrooms. We brought families back downtown, there are businesses again, and we’re thriving.” In the next forty years, Allen predicts even greater things, including adding more dancers to the payroll and perhaps touring. Wherever the road leads, he acknowledges that none of it would be possible without Sims. He credits her foresight and never-say-die attitude with changing not only his life, but the lives of every arts lover in the area. “Bernadette brought dancers from the world scene here to dance

Photo provided by Northwest Florida Ballet

for us, and that’s a huge thing. This is very much a sports-oriented community,” he says. “This lady teaching dance in the middle of all these sports? She had to be very strong willed to deal with everything that was thrown her way. I respect her a lot for giving me—for giving all of us—an opportunity.”

The success of her endeavor hasn’t dulled the memory of Sims’ initial struggle, though it has made those memories sweeter. “There were many who said we couldn’t have a ballet company in Fort Walton Beach,” she says with a satisfied smile, “and I think we’ve proven to all that we can.”

Sims is quick to share the credit, however. “I’m proud of every person who’s worked here. It hasn’t been just me or Todd; there’s an army who have made it possible. We’ve made it forty years, and we’re looking forward to many more.”

For more information about Northwest Florida Ballet or its 2009–2010 events, call (850) 6647787 or visit www.nfballet.org.

VIE - Winter 2009

Birds of a Feather

Paint Together By Marie Ryan / Photography by Gerald Burwell 32

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Painting by Ruth Burwell

Ars longa, vita brevis (Art is long, life is short)

—Hippocrates (c. 460–c. 377 BC)

Left to Right: Diane Barkey, Marie Ryan, and Ruth Burwell

ach Monday from 12 to 3 p.m. at the Senior Center in Panama City Beach, a group of ten to thirty men and women—many of them retirees—settle at their tables, organize their art supplies, catch up with the news of the week, and share interesting perspectives on various art projects. Announcements and reminders are made by Jonita Haynes regarding upcoming workshops and special events. In 2002, Jonita ( Jo to us) founded Painting Partners, an organization which provides members with a place to paint and exchange ideas. Until recently, she had served on the board of the Panama City Beach Senior Services Foundation as vice president. In the winter months, up to thirty people participate. Ten or more year-round residents hold down the fort during the summer. The room is electrified with activity as the members begin to paint, each one with a subject of his or her own. Gradually, a calm and Zen-like stillness pervades the room much like the silence at dusk that follows the sounds

of singing birds as they prepare for sleep. But these birds are not asleep! They are seniors, snowbirds, retirees, and locals who are shattering the myth that the older adult is finished with the learning process. On the contrary, these people are among the most interesting, dynamic, and talented individuals I have ever known. They adhere to the philosophy that lifelong learning reaps benefits for the individual and the community. They enjoy learning new skills, maintaining a social network, and forming valuable relationships while sharing their gifts and knowledge as they volunteer in different ways. They also know that the aforementioned activities are important in order to keep one’s brain active and functioning, thereby helping them to lead happy and productive lives. It is estimated that approximately 800,000 temporary residents migrate to Florida from all over the Northeast, Midwest, and Canada. In particular, the Emerald Coast attracts snowbirds from the Midwest who love the weather and the beauty of the area. Many of the locals are also transplanted snowbirds. Businesses and hoteliers have

long appreciated the value and impact of these people on the economy, and it is reasonable to deduce that restaurants, traffic patterns, and housing are all affected by the winter visitors. At the University of West Florida, the Haas Center for Business Research and Economic Development is the premier source for information about the Northwest Florida economy and its people. The people there were very helpful in terms of directing me to some studies which examine the economic consequences of retiree migration (Serow, 2003; House, 2006; Smith, 2006). Results indicate that more research on this subject is needed. The human brain consists of billions of neurons which connect with one another to process and transmit information for all physical and mental functioning. When a person discontinues an activity, the neural networks begin to fail. When one learns a new language or how to knit or how to play a musical instrument, new neural pathways are opened. Research suggests that seniors maintain good cognitive skills if they continue to use those pathways and those skills. In other

VIE - Winter 2009

Darla Scott

words, USE IT OR LOSE IT! Painting Partners and Jonita Haynes help people to USE IT!

“I love this group. They make me feel able to take a leap. Painting was a big risk for me.”

Jonita, has been painting since she retired in 2002 from her job as the dean of the School of Education at Athens State University in North Alabama. “Painting uses a part of the brain that is both creative and expressive—it is also a contradiction of sorts in that it combines at the same time, both freedom and discipline; excitement and calm,” she said. “It is physically, emotionally, and spiritually satisfying.” She is a former professor and director of K–12 instruction in the Huntsville (Ala.) City Schools, a writer, the director of fund-raising at the Senior Center, and a proud mother and grandmother. Whew! Are you sure you are retired, Jo?

As a hobby, painting is a wonderful pursuit for relaxation. Ted Simonsen, a retired electrical engineer from Massachusetts, thanks “Painting Partners and especially Jo Haynes for helping me to resume watercolor and photography as a hobby.”

Jo makes her home in Panama City Beach with her husband, Jim, a retired dean of the College of Business at Athens State University, where he taught economics. He is on the board of directors at the Panama City Beach Senior Services Foundation. Jo hones her painting skills by attending as many workshops as she can. Her inquiring mind and boundless enthusiasm bring all that she learns to the painting class as well as to organizing workshops and events. The quality of her artwork belies the fact that she is new to this endeavor. No one likes to grow old, but there is an upside. Finally free from the constraints of work and family

Diana Scott, an elementary school teacher from Ontario, calls painting “great fun.” I love the intellectual curiosity common to teachers and the way they love to discover and continue to learn. responsibilities, one has the chance to rediscover beauty in the world and engage in new activities. Maybe, this winter, I will learn belly dancing!

MEET the ARTISTS

Webster’s Dictionary defines art as “the use of skill and imagination in the production of things of beauty.” In addition, painting provides a venue for one to learn a new skill or hobby and, through self-expression, a different way of looking at the world. Patricia Ives, from Sedalia, Missouri, concurs: “Painting is a real high when it works, and it is a way to look at the world.” Patricia has been painting for fifty years and has spent the past ten winters at Edgewater Beach Resort. A loyal year-round member, Maggie L. began painting four years ago. “I soak up whatever everyone else knows, and attend all of the workshops,” she said. “Got to keep those neurons working!” Another fearless lifelong learner is Judy Wade, who taught high school English in Ontario. “I love the fact I am learning new things,” she expressed. Anita, a former elementary school principal from Ontario, echoes these sentiments as she confides,

George Bowman 34

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Pat, a teacher from Michigan, is still learning. “Painting,” she said, “is a wonderful hobby, alone or with friends. Our world is incredible and the Gulf is incomparable!” Don’t you just love this sense of wonder and enthusiasm in this current negative climate? Another teacher from Michigan, Julie, has been painting for twenty years. As she escapes the harsh winters of South Dakota, Jackie feels “it is a way of sharing something of yourself with family and friends.” Paula Clark believes the same: “Painting means friendship, camaraderie, enjoyment, and reward.” She began painting at Edgewater Beach Resort seven years ago. “Wonderful new experience,” said Darla Scott of Ontario. “The camaraderie and help from fellow artists have been a tremendous bonus.” Patricia Campbell said she experiences the best of both worlds: “Panama City Beach in the winter and Cape Cod, Massachusetts in the summer.” Diane Barkey from Ontario has been painting for thirty-five years. She says that “Everyone loves the weather and the beauty of the Gulf.”

Although many of the participants are snowbirds, the dedicated year-round residents keep the class alive and ready for the others when they return each winter.

A glimpse into a day in the life of a group of talented and active snowbirds, every Monday at the Senior Center in Panama City Beach

Although many of the participants are snowbirds, the dedicated year-round residents keep the class alive and ready for the others when they return each winter. Husband and wife team George and Pat Bowman are originally from Chicago and now live in Panama City Beach. George has been painting for thirty-five years and teaches workshops. His artwork reveals beauty, precision, and detail.

comfort zone. I now see the myriad patterns and shapes in nature and the colors of sea and sky in a whole new way.

Ruth Burwell, my friend and my daughter’s mother-in-law, divides her time between Seattle and the Gulf Coast. With an extraordinary portfolio and incredible talent, she has been painting since she was fourteen. Her body of work includes portraits of Saudi kings, Middle Eastern life, and copies of the greats, such as Vermeer’s Girl with a Pearl Earring and Raphael’s Madonna of the Chair.

Painting Partners is only one of the many activities and programs at the Senior Center. Among the others are yoga, belly dancing, computer classes, golf, bridge, ballroom dancing, health seminars, and woodworking. The Senior Center, on Lyndell Lane, provides services and programs for seniors within a three-building complex— Lyndell Community Center, Cypress House, and the Oatfield Center.

Yours truly started to paint in 2005. It causes me to stretch my limits and it takes me out of my

This is only a sampling of the many participants in the art class who have a plethora of experience and who have enriched my life.

PANAMA CITY BEACH SENIOR CENTER

The Panama City Beach Senior Services Foundation was formed in May, 2003 for the sole

purpose of facilitating the further development of facilities and programs at the Senior Center. It is classified as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, and all donations are tax deductible. In March, 2006, the 8,000-square-foot Oatfield building was opened as a result of efforts of the Fund Committee, which secured contributions of dollars, materials, and labor from this generous community. The main benefactor to the Center is the City of Panama City Beach, which provides the major portion of the operating funds. Among the many benefactors are the St. Joe Community Foundation and the Hilton Family Foundation. Other sources are from individual donations, Center memberships, fundraisers, businesses, and workshops. At present, there are approximately 600 members, including year-round residents and snowbirds. To support the Senior Center, you can donate, volunteer, participate, and/or join the Century Club by making a yearly contribution of $100. The Oatfield Building is also available to rent for reunions, weddings, and special events. For availability and pricing, contact the Oatfield Building at (850) 233-5065.

Marie Ryan is a retired school nurse from Massachusetts. Since 1993, she and her husband, John, have frequented Northwest Florida where they have loving family members. With an avid thirst for the arts, Marie enjoys painting, writing, and knitting. Her image was featured on the cover of VIE’s Summer 2009 issue. Founder Jonita Haynes

VIE - Winter 2009

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PLACES NETC Change of Command and Retirement Ceremony at the National Museum of Naval Aviation: August 13 Naval Education and Training Command (NETC) held a change of command ceremony August 13 at the National Museum of Naval Aviation on board Naval Air Station (NAS) Pensacola. Rear Admiral Gary R. Jones turned over command to Rear Admiral Joseph F. Kilkenny. The training command is the largest shore command in the U.S. Navy and provides training for all Sailors, as well as personnel from the Marine Corps, Army, Air Force and students from allied nations. Mrs. Gary Jones and Rear Admiral Gary R. Jones

2009 Pensacola Tour of Tables: October 6 Over 400 people attended the 2009 Pensacola Tour of Tables on October 6 at First Baptist Church Pensacola. The featured speaker was Pam Tebow, mother of Tim Tebow. The event, sponsored by Women’s Ministries of First Baptist Church Pensacola, included both a lunch tour and a dinner tour, which included viewing of designer table presentations from the top design houses in the Pensacola area along with over 50 tables individually decorated by the women of First Baptist Church. Jackie Phillips, Martha Smith, Nancy Hutto, and Lori Hutto

GulfSouth Private Bank Reception at Pensacola Country Club: September 24 On September 24, GulfSouth Private Bank held a reception at Pensacola Country Club to celebrate the August opening of its newest branch in Pensacola. This latest addition is GulfSouth Private Bank’s fifth branch, and the first one in Escambia County. Congratulations! Carol Carlan, Mac McLeod, Katherine Mitchell, and Mary Kathryne Speak

De Luna's Landing Open House: August 12 De Luna’s Landing, Pensacola's newest site for special occasions located in the heart of downtown, celebrated its grand opening on August 12. This spacious venue features some of the best waterfront views in town and is perfect for weddings, luncheons, receptions, and other unique events. Ray and Valerie Russenberger, and Leo Cyr

Baptist Health Care Foundation 33rd Annual Stepping Out in Style: October 15 On October 15, approximately 350 attended the Baptist Health Care Foundation's 33rd annual Stepping Out in Style luncheon/fashion show fund-raiser. Belk produced the event featuring twenty professional models and twelve local individuals. Caroline Kelly, Mayor Mike Wiggins, Kathryn Champlin and Linda Colson Photography by Taris Savell VIE - Winter 2009

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cenic Highway 30A, a jewel of the Emerald Coast, has long played host to a flourishing artistic scene in South Walton. As the birthplace of the New Urbanism movement, it is home to many quaint yet modern townships that make visitors feel as if they have stepped into a whimsical seaside European village. In addition to creating a rich atmosphere in which unique art galleries, painters, and artists who create handmade crafts, pottery, and jewelry thrive, the people of this beloved stretch of scenic

In addition to creating a rich atmosphere in which unique art galleries, painters, and artists who create handmade crafts, pottery, and jewelry thrive, the people of this beloved stretch of scenic highway have also nurtured the performing arts. highway have also nurtured the performing arts. Among other things, the community has thrown its support behind local theatrical shows performed by the Seaside Repertory Theatre, independent film screenings with

Florida State University Film Schoolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Torchlight Film Series, and the artist-in-residency program Escape to Create, which hosts cultural and artistic events for the community. During the period of January 15â&#x20AC;&#x201C;17, 2010, this VIE - Winter 2009

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Internationally renowned songwriters from across the country will converge on this pearl of the Gulf Coast for the threeday Martin Luther King, Jr. weekend to collaborate with local songwriters while sharing their talents and tips with other aspiring artists. charming artistic haven will embrace yet another expression of its creative flair with the inaugural 30A Songwriters Festival, hosted by the Cultural Arts Association of Walton County (CAA). Internationally renowned songwriters from across the country will converge on this pearl of the Gulf Coast for the three-day Martin Luther King, Jr. weekend to collaborate with local songwriters while sharing their talents and tips with other aspiring artists. Scenic Highway 30A’s intimate restaurants, bars, theatres, and town halls will host more than sixty songwriters, including John Oates of Hall & Oates, Emily Saliers of Indigo Girls, and two-time BMI Songwriter of the Year Jeffrey Steele. Greg Barnhill, Tim Nichols, and Chely Wright are a few of the many other star songwriters who will be performing for the inaugural event. The festival will kick off with a reception at the beloved Bud & Alley’s waterfront restaurant in Seaside. Numerous performances and songwriters in the round sessions with

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VIE - Winter 2009

Lake Atitlán and one of its surrounding volcanoes

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STORY AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY KIM DUKE-LAYDEN Unbeknownst to many mainstream travelers, in-the-know adventurers have been enjoying Guatemala’s diverse pleasures for decades, including its affordable prices and friendly locals. Last February (during “dry season”), I joined a dozen like-minded “gringos” from around the globe for a sixteen-day guided tour of Guatemala’s prime destinations and lesser-known hideaways. Below are some of the highlights.

n awe, I peered down as we flew over Belize’s magnificent Great Blue Hole, part of the world’s second largest coral reef system. Ahead, protruding above the cloud cover, two chain-smoking volcanic peaks wowed me as we began our descent into Guatemala City’s new state-of-the-art airport. While I claimed my bags, a quintet with a large marimba (wood-

en xylophone-like instrument) performed mariachi-style music.

ANTIGUA Twenty-five scenic miles southwest of Guatemala City is Antigua—often considered the most charming colonial city between Mexico and Panama—which is where my tour began and

ended. Nestled amidst lush mountains dominated by a handful of dormant and active volcanoes, Antigua is a photographer’s paradise. The city, designated a UNESCO World Heritage site for its cultural importance, is a maze of brightly colored Spanish-style buildings with wrought-iron accents and wavy, terra-cotta tile roofs. Antigua also offers Guatemala’s finest collection of hotels, restaurants, bars, and shops. Antigua’s compact colonial center was easy to explore on foot, though some locals appeared to prefer traveling along the cobblestone calles (streets) by bicycle or rickety tut tut (small threewheeled taxi). Each time I approached the courtyard of the Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de La Merced (Church of Our Lady of Mercy), the smell of corn tortillas cooking wafted through the air while señoras sold them hot off the griddle, slathered with guacamole. La Merced’s yellow stucco façade with white-icing trim and tall bell VIE - Winter 2009

Antigua’s iconic Santa Catalina Arch

towers often served as my compass needle while I explored the surrounding neighborhoods. Across from the Plaza Mayor (aka Parque Central), which features Antigua’s main commercial hub, central park and the city’s only ATMs, I stocked up on enough quetzals (Guatemalan currency) to last several days. ATMs aren’t readily available in Guatemala’s remote regions. I stopped off at nearby Cafe Condesa Express for a delicious café con leche, which rivaled any coffee I had tasted in Costa Rica. Robust, dark roast aromas swirled about, prompting me to buy several bags of the café’s private label brew, Las Tres Condesas (The Three Witches). The café’s restaurant (next door) serves up tasty meals, and the trendy gift shops are also worth visiting. Several blocks away stood my favorite indoor market, Nim Po’t, where I bought handmade pottery, worry dolls, and colorful tins filled with coastersized disks of Guatemalan chocolate seasoned with cinnamon. Only in Guatemala have I seen such a broad spectrum of colorful gemstones. Of particular note is the Guatemalan jadeite, which is a harder, more brilliant, and scarcer jade than the more common and less valuable nephrite variety. 44

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Antigua is home to Guatemala’s most reputable stores for buying high-quality, authentic jadeite. At El Reino del Jade, I took a brief tour of their on-site workshop, which included cutting and polishing demonstrations. In the adjacent showroom, I bought a lovely pair of earrings with handcrafted lavender jadeite set in sterling silver. Accompanied by a certificate of authenticity, my $45 purchase was a memorable keepsake— and a deal!

EXPLORING THE SITES Antigua makes an excellent base for activities that explore the surrounding countryside, such as taking coffee plantation tours, mountain biking, horseback riding, and hiking. One morning at dawn, a handful of us took a guided hike up Volcán Pacaya, Guatemala’s most popular—and highly active—volcano destination; the 8,340foot peak is visible from Antigua. We trudged single file along the often steep, narrow and

Colorful textiles in Chichicastenango

powdery trail that wound its way through ashladen woods, across barren hillsides, and over lava-rock-strewn land that resembled a Lord of the Rings landscape. Throughout our one-and-a-half-hour ascent, the smoky air grew cooler and windier. Sunken practically to my thighs in a dry quicksand of gray rubble, I scaled the last few vertical feet to a rocky ridge where our agile guide awaited us. The frigid wind whipped about like a Category 1 hurricane, numbing my hands and face. High above, ruby-red embers sporadically tumbled down Pacaya’s rugged summit walls while our cameras clicked away like castanets. To emphasize how closely we stood to hot lava, our nonEnglish-speaking guide poked a thick, long stick down into a rocky crevice. Astonishingly, within seconds, the tip ignited. Near the tiny, remote village of Lanquín in Río Cahabón’s lush valley, I experienced the biggest thrill of the trip—a guided tour of the Kan’ Ba river caves, which we climbed, crawled, waded and swam our way through—all while gripping a lit candle! At times, when I needed two free hands, I held my burning candle precariously between my teeth while trying not to singe my nose. When our young guide gave me the opportunity to plunge off a limestone ledge in near

Hot-off-the-griddle tortillas curbside VIE - Winter 2009

My bird’s-eye perch from Pyramid V in Tikal

darkness, I seized the moment. He crouched nearby, shining his flashlight down into the silty, green water. On the count of tres, I leapt feet first towards the illuminated liquid target. Terrrrrrrrrrrr-iffico!

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Outdoor enthusiasts also flock to this pristine wilderness to visit Semuc Champey, a series of stunning cascading waterfalls and emerald-colored pools fed by rushing underground tributaries of the Río Cahabón. Equally memorable was the ride back to our rustic yet comfortable ecolodge, El Recreo. Like locals, we piled into the bed of a pickup truck and grabbed hold of its overhead rails. As we drove up the muddy, pothole-riddled mountain road, I had flashbacks of the time I rode a mechanical bull. At least this time I didn’t get bucked off ! Guatemala occupies the heart of the ancient Mayan world, and the cultural influence is still prevalent. Situated in Guatemala’s extreme northwest corner is Tikal, the greatest surviving Mayan city, which dates to 200 B.C. Amid humid rain forests and dense jungles were miles

Sprawling Mayan ruins at Tikal

of ceremonial temples and excavated ruins. Our guide was one of many archaeologists who continue to unearth additional Tikal ruins. During our tour, several of us climbed Pyramid V, one of Tikal’s highest temples. At the top, spectacular vistas spanned endlessly across the lush treetops. To my surprise, several nearby pyramids protruded above the tree canopy that had been undetectable from our vantage point below.

On Thursdays and Sundays, “Chichi” pulsates with endless blocks of open-air stalls chock-full of colorful textiles, including huipiles (traditional thick, woven blouses worn by Mayan women and specific to each region), carved wooden masks and figurines, leather goods, fresh produce, and flea market finds. Explosions of loud, smoky firecrackers are also a common occurrence on market days. A procession of traditionally dressed

Mayans carrying a colorful, feathered shrine and igniting bombas (firecrackers) startled me as they passed by. Afterwards, I had my own celebration and enjoyed an ice-cold Gallo, Guatemala’s most popular cerveza. Of all the places we visited, stunningly beautiful Río Dulce (“Sweet River”) ranks as my favorite Guatemalan destination. The Río Dulce is

As I inched my way along the narrow ledge that ran across the front of the pyramid, I couldn’t help but wonder if I was standing on an ancient sacrificial altar. The cool breezes felt refreshing, but the absence of any guardrail or safety feature whatsoever completely unnerved me. From my bird’s-eye perch, I kept my back glued to the stone wall behind me—never separating from it even for a second—until I made the steep backwards climb down. Zip-lining afterwards paled in comparison (www.canopytikal.com). About an hour’s drive northwest of Antigua, nestled in Guatemala’s Western Highlands, is the centuries-old market town of Chichicastenango.

Swimming in Semuc Champey’s crystal clear pools VIE - Winter 2009

A colorful “chicken bus”—public transportation, Guatemalan-style.

A LOCAL GARIFUNA BAND—COMPRISED OF BLACK CARIB ADULTS AND CHILDREN PLAYING DRUMS, MARACAS, AND CONCH AND TORTOISE SHELLS—ENTERTAINED US. tucked between Belize and Honduras in Guatemala’s easternmost corner, and flows from Lago de Izabal to the Caribbean Sea. One afternoon we swam in a secluded natural spring located at the foot of a gushing hot waterfall and later settled into our comfy cabins at Hacienda Tijax (www.tijax.com), nestled in a lush cove along the Río Dulce. Early the next morning, under the moonlight, we paddled kayaks downriver into dense mangroves and listened for wild monkey calls as a spectacular sunrise edged above the marshes. After breakfast, an all-day sightseeing tour along the Río Dulce delighted me with surprises around every bend. Our lancha (a small, covered wooden boat with open sides) glided across the water into lily-pad-littered coves, where wooden houses stood on stilts and smiling children in dugout canoes paddled alongside us selling photo ops with turtles and flowers. We motored down a small tributary and visited an artisan cooperative, where indigenous Mayan women 48

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earned money by selling souvenirs handcrafted from banana leaves and corn husks. In the unique port village of Livingston, where the river empties into the Caribbean Sea and pelicans stand guard on weathered boats bobbing in the channel, I enjoyed the best lunch of the trip. At Restaurante Margoth, we feasted on mouthwatering tapado, a Caribbean version of bouillabaisse prepared with assorted seafood— including an entire fish from head to tail—plantains, coconut milk, and spiced with coriander. We drank Coco Locos, which are green coconuts filled with coconut milk and healthy doses of Guatemalan rum. While we ate, a local Garifuna band—comprised of Black Carib adults and children playing drums, maracas, and conch and tortoise shells—entertained us with traditional songs and dances that reflect Arawak, West African, and French influences. My list of “Guate” highlights could go on and on—boating across breathtaking Lake Atitlán,

riding on “chicken buses,” and paying homage to a cigar-puffing, wooden deity named Maximón—but I encourage you to visit Guatemala and discover your own Mayan treasures. Since Guatemala is a developing country, I recommend—especially for first-time visitors— taking a guided tour with an established outfitter, like Canadian-based Gap Adventures (www. gapadventures.com). If you’re as lucky as I was, you’ll be traveling with an amazing group of fun, well-traveled adventurers who will enhance your experience even more.

Kim Duke-Layden is an avid international adventurer whose mantra is “I have not visited Everywhere, but it,s on my list!” She and her husband, John, live at Sandestin where she,s worked for 15 years. To share your own travel pointers or to ask questions, please send them to: wanderlustkim5@ yahoo.com.

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WORD Sister Schubert Book Signing Since its publication in late September 2009, copies of Sister Schubert’s new cookbook, Cast Your Bread Upon the Waters, have been selling like hotcakes––or hot rolls! In the short time her book has been out, people in the COLA 2 COLA region have given her a very warm welcome during her multiple visits to the area for book signings and speaking engagements. On October 1, Sister was the guest speaker at Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation’s Fall Women’s Art Guild Luncheon at Embassy Suites in Miramar Beach. Attendance was the highest it has ever been for one of these events! The following day, Sister visited Sundog Books in Seaside to do a book signing. As Sister signed books on the front porch, iced tea and lemonade were served alongside samples of her Cinnamon Toasted Roll Bites. Needless to say, this enticing event attracted an impressive turnout! Most recently, on November 13, Sister signed books as the special guest for Restaurant Week at Grand Boulevard at Sandestin. Visit www.CastYourBreadUponTheWaters.com for a listing of Sister’s upcoming book signings, including one at Fonville Press in Alys Beach on Sister Schubert Photo by Jessie Shepard

November 28 at 12:00 p.m.

Sister Schubert and Eric Shepard Photo by Lisa Ferrick

Left to Right: Lisa Burwell, Sister Schubert, Lynn Dugas Photo by Jessie Shepard 50

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Sister Schubert with her sister, Charlotte Wood Photo by Romona Robbins

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www.CastYourBreadUponTheWaters.com Books sold at Sundog Books in Seaside, Florida VIE - Winter 2009

VIE - Winter 2009

If you didn’t know what was happening at the Pensacola Civic Center on the evening of September 21st, you wouldn’t have gotten many clues watching the crowd as they filed in. They ranged from college-aged kids, who looked as if they had just come from a Greenpeace rally, to couples old enough to be their parents. People sported high and tight military crew cuts to unshorn locks dyed in hues not found anywhere in nature. T-shirts espoused political views ranging from ultraliberal to ultraconservative. Yeah, I think it’s safe to say that this amalgam of ages, lifestyles, and political beliefs would have you scratching your head and wondering, “What are they all doing here?” The simple answer is, they came for the music, but not just any music.

Sure, the more senior in the crowd, those who owned the first Journey offerings (on large black vinyl discs called “albums”) would know the band was formed by former members of Santana. They’d be able to tell you that the group was named in a radio contest, and they’d be able to tell you that three of the five musicians in this night’s performance are original Journey members. They’d be able to tell you all of this because they used to read the liner notes from those albums like nine-year-olds read the back of a Cocoa Puffs box. What about the younger ones in the crowd? Well, all I can say is that Journey is one of those bands whose music transcends age and time. There is no real “era” to it. Whether it’s the raw electric romance of “Open Arms” or the rollicking good-time tune “Anyway You Want It” (remember Rodney Dangerfield’s impromptu fairway dance party in Caddyshack?), Journey’s music just moves you.

They came to see Journey. Oooooooh, JOURNEY! Why didn’t you say so? That explains a lot!

And so they came. They packed the Pensacola Civic Center, and despite their age differences, hairstyles or political predilections, many had the same question in mind: “Who is this new singer, and how does he stack up to Steve Perry?” While there is no denying that the virtuoso guitar work of founder Neal Schon (recruited by Santana at age fifteen!), the amazing bass of cofounder Ross Valory and the intricate keys and songwriting of Jonathan Cain laid the foundation for the Journey sound, it was the unique and soaring vocal talents of Steve Perry that set the band apart from their contemporaries. Could you imagine the Rolling Stones minus Mick? Can there ever be another Queen without Freddie Mercury? Was Van Halen ever the same following the exit of David Lee Roth? The answer to all is a resounding, “No!” But not so fast!

...those who owned the first Journey offerings (on large black vinyl discs called “albums”) would know the band was formed by former members of Santana. 54

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Jonathan Cain and Ross Valory

“Who is this new singer, and how does he stack up to Steve Perry?”

Arnel Pineda 55

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Schon and Valory were there from the very beginning, and Cain came along very shortly thereafter.

the Mahavishnu Orchestra and you’re close. After their first two albums failed to generate any serious sales, the group decided to go with a more mainstream style. It was in 1977 that the band welcomed Steve Perry to the fold. Perry did for Journey what Peter Cetera did for Chicago—he gave the band real Top 40 chops. They created a clean sound that took their next album platinum and made hits out of “Lights” and “Wheel In The Sky.” Journey was officially on its way. Over the course of the next five years, the band sold millions of albums, recorded twelve Top 40 hits and played to tens of thousands at sold-out stadium concerts. They were the epitome of commercial success, recording commercials for Budweiser and selling their likenesses for use in video games.

Deen Castronovo and Ross Valory

AC/DC scarcely missed a beat between Bon Scott and Brian Johnson. Genesis achieved their greatest success following the departure of Peter Gabriel and the subsequent takeover of Phil Collins at the lead microphone. So it can be done. Add Schon, Valory, and Cain to the lineup, and this is far more than just some tribute band. Schon and Valory were there from the very beginning, and Cain came along very shortly thereafter. Journey was originally formed in 1973. Santana, The Tubes, and a San Francisco Bay area psychedelic group called Frumious Bandersnatch all contributed musicians. Their original style was more along the lines of jazz fusion than mainline rock and roll. Think of a rock version of 56

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But like many bands, success got the better of Journey. Exhaustion from touring and creative differences resulted in the group following the advice of one of their more popular tunes and going their “Separate Ways.” Perry took the solo road with decent success. Schon and Cain teamed with current Journey drummer Deen Castronovo to form Bad English. Cain got together with former Journey rhythm guitarist Gregg Rolie to create The Storm.

After numerous reunion attempts and false starts, Journey regrouped in ’98 with its current lineup of musicians and Steve Augeri taking over as lead vocalist. But Augeri began suffering from what were described as “chronic throat infections” and was even accused by some in the rock press of lip-synching to prerecorded vocals. He was released by the group in 2006. Jeff Scott Soto of Talisman filled in for a few months before the group announced that they were once again in search of a new singer. That search culminated in the hiring of Arnel Pineda, a Filipino singer the band discovered singing Journey covers on YouTube. Fast-forward to Monday, September 21, 2009… a packed Pensacola Civic Center… thousands of people of all ages and from all walks of life gathered to see a group that had been a part of their lives for thirty-five

Neal Schon

Then Arnel steps into the light. He sounds amazing! It’s as if he has spent the last thirty-five years with Neal, Ross, Jonathan, and Deen. years. Many were thinking the same thought: “How will they sound without Steve Perry?” After an opening set by fellow eighties rockers Night Ranger, it was time to find out. Journey started the crowd off with a flame-throwing guitar solo by Schon from the band’s new Revelation album (CD, MP3… whichever media you prefer). Then, some familiar chords that take you back to the band’s heyday. Now you’re going to know… does the new guy measure up or not?

Arnel Pineda

Before you can even see him, you hear him. He starts singing offstage, and for a moment you have chills. The hair on your arms stands up and the thought crosses your mind that you’re going to witness rock and roll history… because it sounds like Steve Perry is back! Then Arnel steps into the light. He sounds amazing! It’s as if he has spent the last thirty-five years with Neal, Ross, Jonathan, and Deen. Either way, you get to spend the next two hours on an amazing musical ride that introduces you to new tunes and takes you back to another time and place. They are everything you’d hoped for, and more. In the end, the audience tries to coax them back onstage for an encore. Old-schoolers with Bic lighters, the youngsters with their cell phones… … all working together to continue the Journey.

Harley Benner is a radio personality and freelance writer. He can be heard weekdays from 8:00 until noon playing an eclectic mix of jazz, AAA, and R&B on The Morning Vibe. He’s also host of My Generation, a weekly show that examines the history and social impact of rock from the late sixties thru the early seventies. It airs at 3 p.m. on Saturdays. Both shows can be heard on WKGC FM 90.7 in Panama City and streaming on www.wkgc.org.

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L A O C

C O L A

Holiday Gift Guide Celebrate shopping this holiday season with gifts from our private selection.**

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Welcome to VIE’s first COLA 2 COLA Holiday Gift Guide. If you are the type that has a difficult time picking out a present for that special someone in your life, we have assembled some great gift ideas for you to consider this year. Inside, you will find over twenty-eight creative and helpful hints: a YOLO Board, a doggy treat at Bark Avenue, an official Indiana Jones hat, high-fashion shoes at Teena Haven, a gift basket at Pish Posh Patchouli’s, a Symba Scooter at Distinctive Cycles, a book at Sundog Books, a teeth-whitening treatment at Dr. Runnels, D.M.D., or designer sunglasses at Artful Eye and the Eye Gallery to name a few! We hope this will spur your desire to shop locally and help out our friends and neighbors by visiting area restaurants, jewelry stores, clothing boutiques, and other various and sundry establishments along our 226-mile stretch of magnificence. Think globally. Shop locally.

Build a Bracelet Create a keepsake over time as you design your own Chamilia bracelet to capture memories and the story of your life. Murano glass, Swarovski crystal, sterling silver, and 14k gold are just a few of the treasures used in these creations. Chamilia Bracelet $1,253 Today’s Boutique todaysdestin.com Destin

Cooking Your Way through the Holidays During the holiday “eating season,” indulge in all of the rich, delectable goodies. Delve into this 180-page cookbook, and try some of Sister Schubert’s recipes, like Mama’s Whipped Cream Pound Cake with Great-Grandmother Tee’s Fudge Sauce! Cast Your Bread Upon the Waters $40 CastYourBreadUponTheWaters.com Sundog Books – Seaside

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European Flair Check out these hand-embroidered, meticulously detailed leather purses enhanced with Swarovski crystals, sequins, filigree, and chenille from Art Praha Galerie. P. Klein Designs $873 Art Praha â&#x20AC;&#x201C; European Gallerie artpraha.com Downtown Pensacola

Princess and the Pea Real princesses sleep in a Corsican Canopy Bed from Bella Beach, with linens designed by Pom Pom and Pine Cone Hill. Skilled craftsman handcraft each bed to uphold a tradition of excellence. We understand that making a house your castle is all about creating a beautiful retreat. Corsican Bed $2,640 Bella Beach (850) 837-6212 Destin

Vroom! Vroom! This Christmas, show off the best present on the block as you tool around on your new Symba Scooter. Your legs (and shoes) will never look as good as on a scooter! Symba $2,598 Distinctive Cycles distinctivecycles.com 60

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Fashion with a Heart of Gold Giving is in! Sama Eyewear’s “Heart of Gold” Swarovski crystalstudded sunglasses make you not only a fashionista but a philanthropist too! 100% of the net proceeds go to the Sam Vance Foundation to prevent drug use among teens and young adults. Sama Eyewear’s “Heart of Gold” Sunglasses Starting at $1,150 The Eye Gallery theeyegallery.com Destin Commons, Pier Park, and Artful Eye, Seaside, Fl

These Boots Were Made for Walking! For the fashionable cowgirl in your life, these exceptionally comfortable boots made of fine leathers are the perfect fit! Giddyup! Lucchese Boots $480 Feathers Shoe Boutique feathersshoeboutique.com Pier Park – Panama City Beach

The Little Engine that Could You have to see it to believe it! A visit to Gigi’s is a visit to a wonderland for the kid in everyone. Marvel at an intricate custom-made train while mom is shopping for her precious “cargo.” Imagine one of “trainiac” David Higgs’ trains choo-chooing its way around your child’s room, down the hall, and around the great room with replicas of your favorite bridges and stations. Model Trains $400–$550 Custom Trains Starting at $4,000 Gigi's Fabulous Kids' Fashions & Toys (850) 231-0110 Rosemary Beach VIE - Winter 2009

Plaid is Back Wrap your special someone in the rustic warmth and simple goodness of retro-grunge, relaxed plaid flannel shirts and enjoy all the goodness in life. Plaid Flannel Shirt $55 Crusher Tee $30 Jake’s House® Life is Good® www.jakeshouse.net Destin

Holiday Glitter All dressed up with somewhere to go! This showstopper is sure to get someone’s attention over the holidays. Platinum Silver Dress by Scala $248 Kiki Risa kikirisaclothing.com Destin

A Perfect Smile is Priceless! Put a smile on someone’s face this year with a gift that will last a lifetime! Dr. Runnels Orthodontics has been creating beautiful smiles for over 10 years. Invisalign Dr. Runnels Orthodontics runnelsortho.com

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Don’t Be Late… …for a very important date! Give her a royal rendezvous with the all-new Rolex Datejust 36mm with an oyster case and bronze floral dial along with 18k white gold diamond bezel. She’ll be on time from now on, or at least look really good being late! Rolex Datejust 36mm $11,475 McCaskill & Company (850) 650-2262 mccaskillandcompany.com Miramar Beach

Reel in a Big One! The more you give, the more you receive. Is this a great time of year or what? With every purchase of $100 in gift cards, receive a $20 Holiday Bonus Card now through December 31, 2009. Mitchell’s Fish Market Gift Card $25–$250 Mitchell’s Fish Market mitchellsfishmarket.com Grand Boulevard at Sandestin/Miramar Beach

Be a Hot Toddy for the Holidays! Get all dolled up for Santa underneath the Christmas tree! Take a gander at this makeup (created with new technology) that is actually good for your skin! Jane Iredale Mineral Makeup $25–$50 Luxe Apothetique (850) 650-6666 Destin

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Pamper Me Softly with Frivolous Necessities There is magic in a box of lotions and potions. You won’t want to open the custom gift box wrapped with a bow and sealed with rose petals and lavender—you will feel that you have received your gift already. Candles, lotions, soaps, lipsticks, eye shadows, eye masks, and silk pillowcases—just some of the “girlie” necessities of life. Holiday Gift Boxes $15–$1,500 Pish Posh Patchouli’s patchoulis.com Rosemary Beach

Sin in a Tin Ordinarily, we wouldn’t encourage bad behavior, but this sinfully sweet chocolate is one desire we think is okay to indulge! This ancient French recipe handed down to Chef William Guthrie will put the taste of Christmas in your mouth. Sin in a Tin $6.99 Lemon Lust $4.99 sininatin.org Available in fine gourmet shops and Publix throughout COLA 2 COLA.

Express Your Individuality Freshwater pearls and precious gems abound as jewelry designer Sarah Carolyn custom makes the style and colors that reflect you! Each necklace and set of earrings is meticulously handcrafted. You can choose one of her exclusive design creations, or you can create your own unique look. Pearl and Gem Designs $35–$195 Sarah Carolyn (850) 650-1753 sarahcarolyn.com Miramar Beach

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Concierge Boating at Its Finest Leave all the hassles of owning a boat to us. North Light Yacht Club offers concierge service with dry storage docks. Only minutes from Choctawhatchee Bay, Crab Island, Destin Harbor, East Pass, and the Gulf of Mexico, North Light Yacht Club is a resort for you and your family! Boat Lofts $52,000–$164,000 North Light Yacht Club northlightmarina.com Niceville

Diamonds are a Girl’s Best Friend What time is it? Time to buy your holiday gifts! Check out our vast selection of watches for ladies and gentlemen. With 94 diamonds in this Australian-designed Swiss watch, Classique is an understated and refined showstopper. Show her how much you love her this season—94 ways! Classique Watch $1,500 Emerald Lady Jewelry (850) 424-3823 Destin

Walk on Water You only live once, so why not try walking—or at least standing—on water? And, while you’re at it, work a miracle and get washboard abs! The “Original” 12’ YOLO Board Starting at $1,495 YOLO Board yoloboard.com Santa Rosa Beach

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Blinded by Perfection! Warm up your holidays with a Hearts On Fire diamond necklace. Fall into the burning ring of fire created by the brilliant sparkle of The World’s Most Perfectly Cut Diamond! Hearts On Fire Necklace $1,600 Vandegriff Jewelers (850) 243-3333 Ft. Walton Beach

The Lady in Red Cozy up to this tall drink of water (or wine), and enjoy a glass of good cheer this holiday season. Produced by Kestrel Vintners in Yakima Valley, Washington, this wine captures the festive spirit of the Northwest in a bottle. Or give the gift of choice with a gift card. Lady in Red $22 Vin’tij Wine Boutique vintij.com Miramar Beach

Holiday Magic There aren’t too many places where you can barbecue outside on Christmas Day, but the COLA 2 COLA region is one of them! Enjoy the holidays flipping burgers on the back patio, or trade in your traditional turkey for tender steaks grilled to perfection with this Fire Magic Built-In Grill. Fire Magic Built-In Grill Starting at $2,625 Bay Breeze Patio www.baybreezepatio.com Destin

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Word. For the independent, creative person in your life, check out the plethora of unique and interesting music and literature that you will find nestled in this seaside village bookstore. Cozy up to the warmth of a good book and nostalgia of your favorite tunes on vinyl. Abbey Road Deluxe Vinyl Box $54.98 Gift from the Sea $9.95 The Glass Castle $15.00 The Road to Woodstock $29.99 Sundog Books sundogbooks.com Seaside

Live. Love. Bark. Crystals are a dog's best friend! These beautiful dog collars by b.b.simon are created with the finest Italian leather and Swarovski crystals and are available in many colors and styles. b.b. simon Dog Collar $89.99-$189.99 Bark Avenue barkavenue.com Baytowne Wharf – Sandestin Golf & Beach Resort and Destin Commons

Must-Have Purses Give me a “T” for terrific! You can’t go wrong with a purse by Tory Burch. The fashion-icon-turneddesigner knows what looks good with her allAmerican classics and her knowledge of style. This luxury lifestyle brand is attainable and accessible. Be a star this season with a Tory Burch purse. Teena d'Haven has what you’re looking for! Assortment of Purses $55–$325 Teena d'Haven (850) 269-0781 Miramar Beach VIE - Winter 2009

Santa Baby… …forgot to mention one little thing—a ring! She’s been an awful good girl, so why not trim her Christmas tree with the sparkle and shine of this one-of-a-kind signature Tycoon Cut diamond ring. Show that you really do believe in her with the stunning brilliance of nine shimmering crown facets of elegance. Tycoon Cut Diamond Ring $11,995 Destin Jewelers www.DestinJewelers.com Destin

A Little Stocking Stuffer Dreams do come true! Be the first to live in this beautiful home designed by architects Marieanne Khoury-Vogt and Erik Vogt. Offering 3 bedrooms and 3 1/2 baths with a spectacular private courtyard including a large dipping pool surrounded by lush landscaping, this home could be a gift beyond compare! An outdoor shower and poolside sitting area complement the courtyard space. The kitchen and dining room are just off the living room. Two guest suites, a kid’s bunk room, loggia and rooftop terrace complete the second floor. 30 Whitby Court $1,590,000 Alys Beach alysbeach.com

** All prices shown are before tax. Taxes and other fees may apply. Other restrictions may apply – please check with the individual retailer for all details. 68

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W E E KLY L IFE TI ME

RE NTALS ME MOR IES

866. 732. 9187 850. 213. 5555

alysbeach.com

ALYS BEACH is a trademark of EBSCO Industries, Inc. @ 2009

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WHIMSICAL PERFECTION

By Sandra Woodward Photography by Jessie Shepard

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Its theme is pure whimsy, but this 30A favorite is serious about food.

here is no escaping the frog theme at George’s in Alys Beach – and who would want to? The rakish little amphibian is a perfect symbol of the restaurant’s unique personality and that of its gregarious and genuine owners. Literally from the moment your foot hits the steps of this 30A-side casual dining establishment, owners George and Ann Hartley entice you to lighten up, kick back and dig into a meal of delectable flavors and generous portions served in an atmosphere of sophisticated hospitality and down-home charm. At George’s, you’re not just welcomed. You’re embraced. At George’s, you can be sure you’ll be the center of attention. From the egalitarian no-reservations policy of first-come, first-served to the light, airy décor and the smiling faces of every staff member you encounter, the atmosphere of George’s is focused on the customer. Right here, right now, you’re going to be well fed. On an October Wednesday when first-time visitors were advised it was a “slow” evening, the place was hopping. (Warning: any perceived frog references from this point forward are not the responsibility of the writer.) George’s is not a huge venue (locals will remember it as the former Sandor’s building in Seagrove Beach that was moved to its new location in 2007), but any of the three seating options is quite comfortable. Our dinner foursome occupied a breezy corner on the very pleasant screened porch. When we returned for lunch, wanting to try the famous fish tacos we just didn’t have room for during our

On an October Wednesday when firsttime visitors were advised it was a “slow” evening, the place was hopping. first visit, we opted for air conditioning, choosing the intimate indoor dining area. We found it to be energizing and fun, but you may wish to choose the porch or deck if quiet conversation is your goal. You may not have time to talk much, however. You’ll be too busy relishing an eclectic menu that offers selections to appeal to every whim. The

starter menu, for example, offers a wide variety, from a tasty warm Dungeness Crab-Parmesan Artichoke Dip to the Asian-influenced Jumbo Lump Crabmeat Avocado Cocktail with its fabulously flavored sesame dressing. The lobster quesadillas offer a decadent nod to the usually more mundane Mexican dish, and the Trio of Silk Road Caravan Dips will appeal to those with a hunger for Mediterranean cuisine. VIE - Winter 2009

Chef Steve Carpenter

Three of the four people in our dinner group chose seafood with three completely different interpretations. As one might expect, the menu leans toward seafood. But Chef Steve Carpenter’s inventiveness offers enough variety in ingredients and execution that even regulars will not be bored. Three of the four people in our dinner group chose seafood with three completely different interpretations. A deceptively simple-sounding offering of grilled fish featured perfectly prepared grouper served over a crisp and tangy Asian slaw. The avowed scallop lover in our group enthusiastically endorsed the Caribbean-influenced seared ocean scallops over tuxedo ginger orzo with a 72

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and wraps. The fish tacos are indeed superb, with a piquant lime-poblano tartar sauce.

But even as we savored the superb seafood offerings, a taste of the Charred Garlic Dijon Beef, meltingly tender kabobs served over a bed of greens, made us all wish, just for a moment, that we’d made that selection.

Portions in all menu categories at George’s are beyond generous, so we offer an early warning to pace yourself if dessert is your passion. The renowned but surprisingly named Chocolate Goo lived up to its show-stopping reputation as did other favorites, such as carrot cake and George’s unique take on the ice cream sandwich, which consists of vanilla ice cream between two slices of the restaurant’s own banana bread topped with dollops of chocolate and vanilla mousse. A sweetly tart cherry-pineapple crisp rounded out our dessert selections, capping off a satisfyingly sumptuous meal.

For those seeking less than a full dinner, there are plenty of lighter offerings: salads, sandwiches

George’s wine list, while not extensive, offers variety, quality and creativity, with an interest-

tropical fruit salad. The Spicy Lemongrass Curry Shrimp, also available with chicken, hit just the right balance of flavors and spiciness.

ing range of whites to complement the seafood offerings and an adequate list of very respectable reds to please any palate. George’s is open Tuesday through Saturday for lunch from 11 a.m. until 3 p.m. and for dinner from 5 until 9 p.m. For more information, call (850) 641-0017 or hop on over to the restaurant’s Web site, www.georgesatalysbeach.com. The Hartleys offer equally superb dining experiences at two other 30A establishments, the Seagrove Village Market Café in Seagrove Beach and La Cocina Mexican Grill and Bar in Seacrest.

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d d A Legendary Wedding d GIVEAWAY d at

EMERALD GRANDE at HarborWalk Village

Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve

A Legendary Wedding Giveaway www.GiVIEs.com

been dreaming of your wedding day forever, or at least as long as you can remember. A day filled with family and joy. A celebration where your fairy-tale vision of yourself in a beautiful wedding gown would come true. A day that would mark the beginning of a new life together as husband and wife. Now imagine the chance to win that weddingâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;with sugar-white sands, emerald waters, and the glorious Destin Harbor as the backdrop to your special day. Your dream can come true with A Legendary Wedding Giveaway provided by Legendary, Inc. and Emerald Grande.

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Photo by VUE Photography

Photography by www.easthillphoto.com Haley Densmore and Nick Allen were married at Emerald Grande on July 12, 2009. They enjoyed a fabulous wedding with 130 guests, including family and friends. Haley and Nick currently reside in Birmingham, Alabama. We thank them for letting us showcase their beautiful photosâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;A Legendary Wedding Giveaway!

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It’s easy to register for this wedding giveaway—all you need to do is enter at www.GiVIEs.com and fill out the online entry form. The winner of A Legendary Wedding Giveaway will be announced at Commander’s Palace on Sunday, February 14, 2010, and will have at least one year to have their fairytale wedding at Emerald Grande. VIEtv will film the announcement of the winner, and follow the lucky bride and groom making plans for their wedding while visiting all the fabulous companies who are participating in this giveaway. The wedding will also be filmed and shown on www.VIEzine.com and all Legendary, Inc. websites for promotional purposes.

Dreams

do come true! A once-in-a-lifetime event calls for a spectacular celebration, and Emerald Grande is a dazzling backdrop to your special day. Overlooking Destin Harbor and the Gulf of Mexico, this idyllic wedding venue includes a stunning outdoor deck with a wedding staircase to an elegantly appointed reception space that accommodates up to four hundred guests. The giveaway also includes wedding rings for the bride and groom provided by Destin Jewelers in Miramar Beach; a wedding gown chosen by the bride-to-be provided by Simply Elegant Bridal in Fort Walton Beach; music by DJ-Zoran of Celebrations by the Sea; a four-tier wedding cake to serve up to one hundred guests by Confections on the Coast, LLC; hair styling for the bride and groom at the prestigious Salon Twist on Highway 30A; photography services by Pure 7 Studios; and a dream reception hosted and catered by Emerald Grande. The lucky couple will have their wedding day showcased by VIE – People + Places, Legendary, Inc. and Emerald Grande. With the promotional items included, the value of this wedding giveaway is over $30,000.** Look for more promotions on this grand event throughout the year in VIE – People + Places, on VIEzine.com . . . A Legendary Wedding Giveaway at Emerald Grande.

Photo by www.easthillphoto.com **ENTRY INFORMATION You must be 25 or older. Only one (1) entry per person. Winner need not be present to win. This prize is guaranteed to be awarded and is subject to availability. No VIE – People + Places and/or Legendary Inc. employee or employees’ immediate family member is eligible to win. The winner will be drawn on February 14, 2010. No substitutions for prizes. Prizes are nontransferable and non-refundable. Contest is open only to residents of the United States. Void where prohibited by law. No purchase necessary to enter. Neither VIE – People + Places and/ or Legendary Inc. and participating agencies, merchants, employees, or affiliates are liable for any property damage, personal injury, or death occurring during or in connection with this program. Prizes are valid until September 1, 2011. Reservations are based on availability. Not valid over holidays and blackout dates will apply. All price/values shown are before tax. Taxes and other fees may apply. Other restrictions may apply – please check with the individual retailer for all details. Go to www.GiVIEs.com for more details on A Legendary Wedding Giveaway. Names and addresses from contest entries will be added to the database of VIE – People + Places and Legendary, Inc. It may be used for future marketing announcements and/or promotions via U.S. Postal Service or e-mail. Winner agrees to have VIE – People + Places and/ or Legendary, Inc. film the wedding for promotional purposes. We respect personal privacy; any information provided on this form will be held in the strictest confidence and will be used for no other reason than stated on this form. If you do not wish to be added to our list, please indicate in the appropriate place on the entry.

WEDDING RINGS $5,000 Destin Jewelers 850.837.8822 www.DestinJewelers.com

WEDDING GOWN $1,500 value Simply Elegant Bridal 850.862.3334 www.SEBridals.com

BRIDE & GROOM HAIR STYLING $450 value Salon Twist 850.231.7853 www.SalonTwist.com

RECEPTION MUSIC $950 value DJ-Zoran 850.581.4442 www.CelebrationsByTheSea.com

FOUR-TIER WEDDING CAKE $700 value Confections on the Coast, LLC 850.259.5102 www.ConfectionsOnTheCoast.com

PHOTOGRAPHY $3,500 value Pure 7 Studios 850.654.6523 www.Pure7Studios.com

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WEDDING VENUE with Food & Beverage $10,000 value Emerald Grande 850.337.8100 www.EmeraldGrande.com Promotional Value $10,000

T H E P E R F E C T LO O K F O R YO U R P E R F E C T DAY ! Bridal Parties Welcome

Leah Powell Gina Shiflett

Ashley DeJohn

4281 East Scenic HWY 30A

Seagrove Beach, FL 32459

850.231.7853

www.salontwist.com VIE - Winter 2009

NEW BEGINNINGS Splendor on the Gulf Coast

Photography by Goode Green Photography www.goodegreen.com

Cristina & Christian After Cristina Kown graduated from Boston University, she met Christian Gerloff in Australia, where Christian was a tennis pro. They were married on October 3, 2009 on the Sugarman Estate in Makena, Maui. They chose Maui because it was a mid-point for both families and an easy trip for their West Coast friends. The week-long wedding celebration consisted of snorkel and surfing adventures, cocktails at the Grand Wailea, a luncheon at Alii Kula Lavender Farm, brunch at Four Seasons and an incredible rehearsal dinner at a private home overlooking the ocean. Cristina and Christian currently reside in San Diego where Cristina is the marketing director for DC Shoes and Christian is teaching tennis and competing.

VIE - Winter 2009

Photography by VUE Photography www.VUEphotographyonline.com

Ashley & Zane Zane proposed to Ashley while vacationing in Santa Rosa Beach and one year later, on these same beaches, they said their vows. The couple planned their wedding around an "Aâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;Z" theme and wanted to keep it very simple in design. Ashley had seen a picture of tall orchid vases and knew this would set the tone for her reception decor. The atmosphere was intimate and cozy, designed by Events by Nouveau Flowers in a beautiful setting at Carillon Beach. The food was catered by Townsend Catering, cake by Confections on the Coast, gown by Judd Waddell and every emotion captured by VUE Photography. Both the bride and groom hold careers in medical sales and reside in Georgia.

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Escape to Affordable Luxury

The Courtyard Sandestin Hotel is the perfect location to host your rehearsal dinner or accommodate your out-of-town guests. Enjoy all the amenities of the Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort as part of your dream wedding.

100 Grand Boulevard Destin, Florida 32550 USA Phone : 1-850-650-7411 Fax : 1-850-650-7491 www.marriott.com/vpscy Courtyard速 by Marriott速 Sandestin at Grand Boulevard VIE - Winter 2009

50 South Holiday Road, Suite 700 Miramar Beach, FL

VIE - Winter 2009

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My Pilgrimage

J O U R N EY W I T H O U T R E S E RVAT I O N S By Pat Crawford erous front porch with its mismatched assortment of seating appeared inviting enough. My appreciation of its peaceful simplicity quickly melted away as first one and then several other canine heads popped up above the porch railing. As they scrambled to their feet and bounded off the porch, I realized that this farmhouse was lacking an element common to rural homes that bordered the highway: a fence. The dogs bounded down the driveway, framed by a dusty cloud of Georgia red clay that gave the whole scene a surreal, apocalyptic feel. The words of one of my colleagues echoed in my mind: “Aren’t you worried about roving bands of pit bulls?” Months earlier, when I announced my planned adventure, most folks were skeptical. After they warmed to the idea, I began to get all sorts of advice. Ever the optimist, I was caught up in the excitement of the challenge and my enthusiasm was not tempered in the least by my well-meaning friends who were more preoccupied with potential dangers. I scoffed at the suggestion that I would be accosted by free-ranging canines with attitude. Now I was not so sure.

As a concession to their concern, I added to my equipment list a small canister of “puppy pepper spray.” Although it held but ten squirts and was only effective at very close range, it did offer a bit of reassurance that my journey would not be derailed by any unfortunate encounters, canine or human. Glancing down now at the tiny canister affixed to the shoulder strap of my backpack, I weighed the consequences of opening fire on the approaching dogs. With seven of them, I had only a three-squirt margin of error. If they would somehow cooperate by approaching me politely in single file, thereby allowing me to mace them individually, I might have a chance. It was too late for that. They were already beginning to fan out, as packs of dogs instinctively do, circling their prey. Images of mauled pit bull victims that I had seen in countless news stories filled my head. Forget the spray, I thought; it would only antagonize them.

even! One angry, unfettered pit bull would have been enough to unnerve me, but the sight of seven closing in on me with no chance of escape seemed to assure a grim outcome. I could hardly be more vulnerable. This was day four of my great adventure—a personal quest to rediscover America by walking one thousand miles, following the back roads along the Atlantic Coast from Florida to the nation’s capital. On this day I was on a particularly remote stretch of Highway 17 in southern Georgia. Several hours had passed since I had seen anything other than miles of pine forest and an occasional motorist. I was beginning to wonder when I might come upon any sign of civilization when the farmhouse appeared to my right, set back from the road in a small clearing. There was nothing The dogs bounded down the driveway, framed by a dusty cloud of remarkable about it. Built of board and batten, Georgia red clay that gave the whole scene a surreal, apocalyptic feel. weathered to that familiar gray color and with The words of one of my colleagues echoed in my mind: “Aren’t you the obligatory rusting tin roof, it was a perfect complement to its rustic surroundings. The genworried about roving bands of pit bulls?”

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As the pack moved ever closer, surprisingly enough my life did not flash before me. What did emerge from the deep recesses of my mind was a checklist of things to do when confronted by threatening dogs. These nuggets of wisdom were part of that collective knowledge one gains from parents and other mentors as one finds his way in the world. Never make eye contact. No problem. My shades with their impenetrable UVB lenses were firmly in place. Be the alpha dog. That was a tall order, given the odds. I might be able to bluff one dog, but seven? Remain calm. Actually, I was relatively calm. Perhaps it was because I had made the transition from initial alarm to acceptance of my fate almost immediately, completely bypassing denial along the way. There wasn’t enough time for that. I didn’t have much choice. There I was, a middle-aged pilgrim, walking alone with everything I thought I would need on my back. Survival is all about resourcefulness, but I was a little short on resources. A quick scan of the horizon in both directions offered no hope of any traffic coming my way. If there was anyone in the farmhouse, they were making no effort to call off the dogs. I was alone in the middle of nowhere with nowhere to run, and nowhere to hide. It was time for the showdown. I planted my two hiking poles firmly on the asphalt, faced my adversaries and stood my ground. My last hope was that when they reached the highway, they would stop and not

cross over to my side. Maybe their yard had one of those invisible boundaries that would give them a little jolt if they attempted to cross it. No such luck. Three of the dogs crossed the road without hesitation and began their circling routine, now within an arm’s length of me. Just as the other four began to make their way across the road, a small white pickup truck with darkly tinted windows appeared from behind me. The driver stopped in the middle of the road, effectively blocking the dogs’ approach, and laid on the horn. The noise seemed to disorient them and they almost immediately retreated back toward the farmhouse. Since the three pit bulls at my feet seemed a bit confused, I seized the opportunity, mustered up my most authoritative voice, and commanded them to “Go home!” Miraculously, it worked. Maybe it was the shades, or perhaps they thought the hiking poles were weapons of some sort. They paused for a moment to size me up, then turned and followed the others back to the house. Be the alpha dog. Almost immediately, the truck sped away. I wanted to thank the driver, but he disappeared as quickly as he had appeared. Fearing that the dogs might return once the truck had left, I picked up my pace and walked with a purpose for about a mile before looking back. When I did stop, I was alone on another desolate stretch of highway. The sky above was a cloudless, brilliant blue. I felt an enormous sense of relief, glad to be alone and safe. Looking heavenward, I gave thanks for the divine intervention. It wasn’t necessary for me to see who was driving that truck. I knew. As I reached my destination that night and drifted off to sleep, I was overcome with a feeling of peace and assurance that everything about my journey was going to be okay. I had fifty-four more days on the road ahead and I was ready for anything. As I began packing my gear the next morning, I tossed that canister of puppy Mace into the garbage. In only four days, I had already begun to experience the freeing sensation that would define my journey. I was learning to let go, to live for the moment, and most of all to turn the tables on a lifetime of controlled behavior. I was letting the journey take me.

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And so it did. What followed in the next seven Actually, I was relatively calm. Perhaps it was because I had made weeks was a transformational experience for me—changing forever the way I see others and the transition from initial alarm to acceptance of my fate almost realizing the opportunities that can be so easily immediately, completely bypassing denial along the way. There missed if we don't take the time to connect with wasn’t enough time for that. people we encounter every day. Walking through the small towns that time and the interstate In the telling of this story I found my muse. The act of walking across America highways have passed by allowed me to connect with the people who make would certainly provide an antidote to my restlessness. If each day was spent up the real America, not the ones who make it on the evening news. Capturwalking from dawn to dusk, filled with new discoveries and unforeseen chaling glimpses of American culture that often go unseen, I was able to soak up lenges, how could a person possibly feel anything at day’s end other than exviews of beautiful landscapes that drivers usually miss while traveling on the hausted satisfaction? And what about the state of the union? Three decades interstate. Eating at off-the-beaten-path diners offered tastes of local culture earlier, Peter Jenkins found that in spite of what was happening in our nation’s through brief but intense encounters with regular folk, willing to openly capital, the spirit and values of the people in the rural areas he traveled were share stories and secrets. Offers of food and lodging were frequent, not to good. The American people were still the kindest and most compassionate mention assistance in getting out of some tricky situations. I have always people on earth, welcoming to strangers and proud of their heritage. I wanted believed that we are surrounded by angels, if only we are open to them. This to make the journey myself, take the pulse of my fellow citizens and find out if adventure enabled me to experience this firsthand. this was still the case. This would be my great adventure! The inspiration for this journey had its genesis in the autumn of 2006 when, while struggling with the inevitable discontent that accompanies middle age, I had the good fortune of stumbling upon Peter Jenkins’ A Walk Across America. Here was a story about someone in his twenties who walked from New York to Mobile, Alabama in the early 1970s. A disillusioned young man coming of age in the shadow of Richard Nixon and Vietnam, the adventurous Jenkins decided to hit the back roads of our country on foot to find out for himself how the American people were doing. The parallels to my own situation were striking. I came of age in the sixties and could recall my own feelings during that tumultuous time.

After several months of training and preparation, I left Jacksonville, Florida on Memorial Day Weekend—alone and on foot, carrying a backpack with what I hoped would be all I needed to survive. Fifty-eight days later, I triumphantly walked across the 14th Street Bridge, past the Washington Monument and into the heart of our nation’s capital. The blisters on my feet that I picked up along the way soon faded, but the memories of the people and places I visited will be with me forever. I also knew that the physical and emotional euphoria I experienced meant that this would be the first of many adventures to come. Months earlier, when my well-meaning friends expressed concern about my lack of planning (i.e., no predetermined destination each day or reserved accommodations) and my accompanying lack of concern about my safety, I replied that this would be a journey without reservations—I had no reservations and I made none. I set out to take the pulse of the rural South, to experience the spirit of the people and how they react to a wayfaring stranger. The genuine warmth and kindness I encountered confirmed my belief that America is still the best place in the world, filled with good, gracious people who open their hearts freely. It also made me appreciate the words of T.S. Eliot, who said,

“We shall not cease from exploration, and the end of all our exploring will be to arrive at where we started and know the place for the first time.” Amen.

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realize I am a snob when it comes to art and literature. My background in the arts has set high standards for me. Having traveled widely, and having lived and worked in such places as Manhattan, London, San Francisco, and Los Angeles, I have been exposed to some of the world’s best writers and their works. So, when my husband and I had the opportunity to attend a writers conference at Seaside October 14 to 16, my expectations were high. I had often heard how helpful writers conferences can be for a writer, and since I am writing my first novel, I was game to try this one. I confess, I was hoping for the best from the conference, but not expecting it. Much to my surprise, it met my highest expectations. The conference began and ended in the warm welcoming atmosphere of Sundog Books, which provided wine and music. We then moved over to the Great Southern Café for tasty hors d’oeuvres, where we were joined by Robert and Daryl Davis, the founders of Seaside. Our mornings consisted of a delicious continental breakfast catered by Amavida in Seaside. The second round of lus-

Authors David Magee (left) and Scott Morris at Sundog Books

I had often heard how helpful writers conferences can be for a writer, and since I am writing my first novel, I was game to try this one. cious hors d’oeuvres took place on our second evening, this time at Bud & Alley’s Pizza Bar, where conversation stimulated by the day’s activities continued. While we enjoyed the sunset on the beautiful beaches, Dave Rauschkolb, the owner of Bud & Alley’s and its Pizza Bar, joined us. After reaching our fill of good food and good conversation, many of us extended our evening by attending an excellent production of Harold Pinter’s The Homecoming by The Seaside Repertory Theatre players. Fortunately, throughout the conference, the weather was perfect. Even an early downpour during the first evening of the conference proved to be soft and welcoming. Our meetings were held on the second floor of the Seaside home of Marsha and David Dowler. The large room in which we met faced east and was bright, spacious, and airy due to the many tall, open windows surrounding the room. Most of the participants were local; although my hus-

band and I knew many of them from before, we did not know about this side of them. Among the participants were other writers, photographers, a poet, several lawyers, at least two architects, and two teachers from South Walton High School. All in all, there were about twenty-five participants. Each person attending was fascinating and contributed many sensitive and perceptive questions. Several of the conference’s featured writers mentioned how they had never experienced a group as savvy as this one. The conference writers were a wide assortment: a poet, a novelist, two nonfiction writers, a playwright, and a singer-songwriter. From the start of the first session, I found myself glued to my seat as I listened to each writer describe insights into his or her own individual writing process. The presentations began with adept explanations of the ins and outs of the writers’ individual crafts. Inevitably, upon interaction with this very VIE - Winter 2009

throughout the world suffer from much worse conditions, such as starvation and disease, than the pain of writing. He advised that we need to maintain perspective. The poet, Erin Belieu, broke in, suggesting that, perhaps, “perspective” is difficult to maintain since a writer spends so much time alone, which naturally results in a disproportionate obsession with oneself. The conversation continued in this manner until, suddenly, a single voice broke from our collective group, crying out, “Is this group therapy?” We all laughed a little uneasily. I was to later ask David Magee about his mounting pain. He said it was a beautiful pain because he felt alive in ways he had never felt before. He said that writing was “addictive to the point of no going back.”

Prudence Bruns and poetess Erin Belieu astute group of participants, each session evolved into an intimate telling, almost a confession at times, of the writer’s own personal experiences. The conference reached its critical point toward the end of the workshop. All six presenters were seated before us. The participants, at this point, had become more of a kind of collective entity rather than a disparate group. The intimacy in the room was palpable. The discussion revolved around feelings and their role in the life of a writer. David Magee, a nonfiction writer, described how the process of writing had brought him to his knees, so to speak. He said that, with each progressive work, he had grown as an individual by constantly asking more from himself while delving deeper and deeper into the characters about whom he was writing. As a result, writing was actually 96

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becoming more and more difficult for him, and he didn’t know how much more he had to give. He described this experience as being extremely painful. Another writer in the group quickly cited a quote: “With each novel, I die a little…” Melanie Hammet, the singer-songwriter, described her process of writing as like that of a relationship or a discourse with herself. “Isn’t it all a matter of perspective?” Neil White asked rhetorically, presenting the idea that people

Much of what we learned, as with all good art, could be applied to one’s own life. Words such as “patience,” “honesty,” “understanding,” “listening,” and “enjoying” were continually reiterated. The memoir writer, Neil White, author of In the Sanctuary of Outcasts (Morrow/ HarperCollins), stressed the need for brutal honesty with oneself. By admitting what is most terrifying to acknowledge, one scourges oneself of self-righteousness. He said that writing a memoir involves a self-search for meaning. Questions that should be asked are Why are you writing? and Why is it important? There must be emotional accuracy. David Magee, who is an award-winning columnist and non-fiction writer, having most recently published The Education of Mr. Mayfield,

The participants, at this point, had become more of a kind of collective entity rather than a disparate group. The intimacy in the room was palpable.

described all good writing as a form of self-help. He said that it is not so much an expression of your heart as of your soul. He also stressed that less is always more when it comes to writing. The conviction of the story must be allowed to breathe. A good writer must have the courage to take away what is not necessary. Both David and Neil emphasized the need for including details when writing. The author must not be tempted by generalities or universals, but rather must use the details to build the story. Neil said that one should not tell a scene, but â&#x20AC;&#x153;showâ&#x20AC;? it, allow readers to visualize it. The playwright Rich Orloff, who is best known for Funny as a Crutch, described how he used comedy to portray a serious subject. He emphasized honesty. A playwright should not try to show the importance of a scene, but rather bring believability to it, not so much through good dialogue as through an accurate or honest understanding of what lies behind or beneath the scene. He also emphasized the need to give oneself plenty of time. At first, I was amazed by this last point; however, in one way or another, all of the writers stressed it. They explained that a lot

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of what most people might consider “procrastination” is a necessary part of the “creative” process. They also accentuated the need to get the writing out, in any way possible—just get it out. The first stage of writing should be understood as embryonic; it is where the piece of writing is frail and in need of protection. Neil warned us to never apply a critical eye while writing the first draft; that will come later. He cautioned us against showing our work to anyone too early in the process. He, David, and Scott advised developing a coterie of trusted friends to look at our work in its later stages. But always, they insisted, the writer must remain true to him or herself. Rich Orloff described the development of a play as a journey; he said that it is more than writing a plot and a story line. He demonstrated and highlighted many of his salient points by having us watch several of his short plays performed by the Seaside Rep players at the Seaside Rep Theatre. It was interesting to hear him describe the vital role that an audience plays in shaping and developing a play. Rich described how readings before audiences were a critical part of honing a play. He explained that, based upon the audience response, he is able to understand the tenor of his play and whether or not it is working. He said that readings of his plays before audiences allow him to get it right. Several of the writers described their experience with writing as being the same as falling in love. All of them were passionate about it and said that they were willing to give up whatever was required in order for them to continue writing. The poet, Erin Belieu, explained that a poem is not a puzzle to be figured out, but rather a written piece to be enjoyed on a visceral level through its sound, rhythm, and feeling. “Poems are snippets of life,” she said. “We don’t always understand the significance or meaning of our lives.” Erin believes that all people have poems inside of them. She also emphasized how poetry never becomes outdated. There are all kinds of poetry for all kinds of people. She read to us “I 98

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Heart Your Dog’s Head,” which is from her recent collection of poems, Black Box. It is a hilarious poem based on her distaste for football and one particular NFL coach, Bill Parcells. We laughed until our stomachs hurt. The fiction writer, Scott Morris, who is the author of Waiting for April, appeared more introverted than the other writers, for he rarely spoke while the others were constantly vying for the floor. When I asked him why he became a writer, he replied that he did so because he was a reader. He loves good prose, and he stressed that, in good prose, style is a natural part of the story. When it came time for Scott’s presentation, he very appropriately read his most recent short story rather than discussing his craft. Needless to say, his prose is lovely and speaks more eloquently than any explanation he could have presented. The architect sitting next to me described it as the most beautiful writing she had ever encountered. Scott’s story was an extremely moving account of his observations of a mentally challenged student in middle school. There were very few dry eyes in our group by the time he stopped reading. All of the presenters agreed that being a writer requires a lot of introspection, which helps one see oneself more clearly, making one a better person. Melanie Hammet, the singer-songwriter, used the word “synesthesia” to describe the interconnectivity of sensory experiences and how stimulation of one of the senses leads to automatic experiences in a second sense. She demonstrated this principle by singing a song about urban planning and development, inherently a dry subject, which she brought to life through the

Prudence Bruns and David Magee sound and rhythm of her music and the poetics of her words. She explained how art is not exercised in a vacuum. She also described how she uses her songs as therapy to break through to the often hidden feelings of grieving children, ages

seven through twelve, when nothing else will. By making a song out of the children’s own associations with words such as “sad,” “mad,” etc., she is able to help them express painful feelings that they have been unable to share with others.

Several of the writers described their experience with writing as being the same as falling in love. All of them were passionate about it and said that they were willing to give up whatever was required in order for them to continue writing. VIE - Winter 2009

I must give my sincere thanks to Seaside’s Escape to Create for sponsoring the conference. Escape to Create, Seaside’s artist-in-residency program, has recently expanded to provide “cultural, educational and artistic events for the entire South Walton community throughout the year.” I have admired, over the last seventeen years or so, the high level of integrity of this program. Until recently, its sole purpose was to support artistic ventures by bringing artists of all types to Seaside for one month to “escape” the confines of everyday life and to “create.” Most of the writers speaking at the conference had been participants of its program. When I spoke to Melanie, she stated that the support provided by the program had been “phenomenal” and a “life changer” for her, expressing how there are few places in the

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world in which one could find donors coming together to provide artists one full month in which to create. The snob in me has been humbled. With all of the joy and benefit that I have gained from attending this conference, the most important thing that I took away from it is a clearer insight into creativity. Creativity is contagious. Even though much of the creative process may be solitary, the experience acquired by being with other creative people seems to be equally necessary. Scott Morris emphasized how he was inspired to learn to write by reading the good writing of others. The conference showed me that when creative people come together, they share their “creativity,” resulting in enhanced creative endeavors. With

Escape to Create expanding its focus into South Walton, we can look forward to further artistic possibilities for our community.

Prudence Farrow Bruns is an accomplished producer of television, plays, and film, including the 1994 feature film Widow’s Peak starring Mia Farrow. She holds a Ph.D. in South Asian Studies – Sanskrit from University of California at Berkeley and has held teaching positions at Berkeley and at Rutgers University. Prudence lives in Seagrove Beach with her husband, Albert, and is currently working on her first novel. For more information on Prudence, please visit her website www.prudencefbruns.com.

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Now that the

Hat is out of the Box the Possibilities are Endless

SARAH'S HAT BOXES written by: laurie crowley | photography by: david mendelsohn

It is said that "necessity is the mother of invention." That statement certainly rings true when talking about Peter and Debbie Mills, owners of Sarah's Hat Boxes, of Hancock, New Hampshire. In 1988, Debbie's mother gave her a kit to make an old-fashioned hat box. The kit didn't work out properly, but Debbie was intrigued by the process. Through trial and error, and with help from her husband, Peter, she started making hat boxes of her own. On his way home from work, Peter would scour local stores for discarded cardboard and Debbie would shop for bolts of fabric at a discount. They worked tirelessly together to create unique cardboard hat boxes covered in fabric. Starting out small, they decided to sell their hat boxes at local craft fairs. As new entrepreneurs, Debbie and Peter were excited by the response to their handiwork; they sold all of their boxes at their first fair. But they were also learning some harsh lessons along the way.

Learn from Your Mistakes "There is always going to be something you don't anticipate when starting out in business, but that's how you learn. We would never have developed our sturdier chipboard boxes if it hadn't rained at a craft fair, causing our boxes to collapse," remembers Peter. Going home, Debbie and Peter were determined to find a way to make the boxes work. Another lesson the Mills learned was that it is important to control what you can control. "We made a brochure to showcase our fabric-covered boxes," Debbie recalls. "We spent all we had on fabric, photography, and print costs. When the orders came in, we realized some of the fabric was discontinued, and we couldn't fill the orders. We had no control over fabric availability, and that's when the idea of custom boxes really set in." VIE - Winter 2009

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In the early days of their business, Peter would come home from work and then head to Connecticut, Maine, or New York to buy fabric at the big warehouse stores. Meanwhile, Debbie spent her days answering phones, taking orders, creating new designs, making boxes, and, most importantly, taking care of their two children, Sarah and Phil. "Our name started to get out there after a purchasing agent discovered the many uses for our boxes. He was impressed that he could get them in any quantity, any size, and any fabric, as well as customized screen printing," says Peter. Sarah's Hat Boxes can now be found in store displays at Macy's, Victoria's Secret, Brooks Brothers, and, more recently, White House|Black Market, as well as other lesser-known but equally important fine stores.

Believe in your Product Peter recalls the day he received a call from a vendor who was inquiring about his boxes, and was asked whether he would bring some samples to her headquarters in Connecticut. After borrowing twenty dollars from his neighbor for gas, he loaded up the family wagon with garbage bags filled with hat boxes, and headed out. When he pulled up to the address given to him, he was astounded. "Here I am, a machinist at night, making hat boxes in my house by day, and staring at a sign that read 'Crabtree and Evelyn,'"

Peter recalls. "Needless to say, I felt underdressed, ill prepared, and very nervous. But I decided to let the product speak for itself. I left the meeting with our biggest order to date and with a sense of validation and belief in what we were doing." Debbie and Peter have some insightful tips for people who have a passion to start their own businesses. They knew their product was good, but realized it would be a challenge to gain the trust and respect of potential clients, given that they were a home-based business. Utilizing what she had, Debbie served tea on the front porch of her quaint New Hampshire home to a client interested in placing a large order. Showcasing the idyllic beauty of fall in New England, while hiding the fact that her kitchen and family room doubled as a factory, was a smart move. The client loved the ambiance, and placed an order. "Always act as if you already have what you are striving for," says Debbie. After moving a few times over the years and renting various spaces for their company, Sarah's Hat Boxes has found the perfect location: Hancock, New Hampshire. With the acquisition of a 15,000-square-foot factory in 2006, Debbie finally has the showroom she envisioned, and Peter has room to expand production.

"Our name started to get out there after a purchasing agent discovered the many uses for our boxes. He was impressed that he could get them in any quantity, any size, and any fabric, as well as customized screen printing," says Peter.

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When he pulled up to the address given to him, he was astounded. "Here I am, a machinist at night, making hat boxes in my house by day, and staring at a sign that read 'Crabtree and Evelyn.'" 108

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Southern Living Idea House 2009

While Debbie looks at the boxes with an artistic flair, Peter sees the structural component and is always striving to find new ways to create hat boxes that are strong and durable. "We are our own competition," says Peter. "If you call another company, they will tell you the box size they have available. The difference is that we make the box that the client wants." Thanks to Peter's tinkering with a 1922 shear, which he picked up for $1000, he is able to construct hat boxes from 4 to 24 inches. "I grew up with a skill saw in my hand, and if someone tells me it can’t be done, I find a way to do it," he says.

Alys Beach, Florida

The Mills are always looking at ways to update their products. They now offer dye sublimation, a process by which an image on paper can be transferred onto fabric with photo-quality results that will last a lifetime. The Mills also recently purchased the rights to thousands of Norman Rockwell images, allowing them to offer hat boxes adorned with what many would consider good, old-fashioned Americana.

One Simple Rule Debbie and Peter have watched their business grow by following one simple rule: "Stay true to yourself." Debbie recalls how she never wasted anything in the early days. "We reused cardboard, ribbon, and fabric out of necessity. We were green before it was in style! We never use toxic materials. That is why we won't offer leather-covered boxes—toxic adhesive is needed to affix leather, and we don’t want to expose our employees to any harm." Because both Debbie and Peter are on the floor working side by side with their employees, there is a sense of camaraderie. "We value our employees," continues Debbie. "If someone needs to leave at 3 o'clock to catch a high school soccer game, we're okay with that. Our philosophy is 'just get the job done.' Our children are grown, but we understand. We made it a point to attend after-school activities, and we want our employees to do the same."

Alys Beach, Florida

t rac er y i n t er ior s 72 Ma i n Street Ros emar y B eac h 850.231.6755 tracer y i nteriors.com

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CUSTOMER SERVICE IS A TOP PRIORITY. DEBBIE REMEMBERS THAT WHEN THEY WERE STRUGGLING TO FILL ORDERS, PAY BILLS, AND KEEP THE FAMILY RUNNING, THEY WOULD ALWAYS TREAT THEIR CUSTOMERS AS IF THEY WERE THEIR MOST IMPORTANT CLIENTS. IT DIDN'T MATTER WHETHER THE ORDER WAS FOR ONE OR ONE THOUSAND BOXES. "WE ARE HERE FOR OUR CLIENTS," SAYS DEBBIE. As the business continues to grow, both Peter and Debbie are amazed at the opportunities presented to them on a daily basis. "Our name is getting out there," says Debbie. "People respond to quality and customer service, and that is what weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re all about." Debbie has had designers call her for a hat box needed for an episode of The Young and the Restless. "I've recorded the episode, but haven't had time to watch it yet," admits Debbie. Havit Advertising Inc. contracted with Sarah's Hat Boxes to make boxes for AMC's Emmy Award-winning show, Mad Men. HBO used hat boxes to fill with gifts for their shows, Sex and the City and The Sopranos. Producers for Ugly Betty ordered hat boxes to be used in an upcoming episode, and InStyle magazine features Sarah's Hat Boxes in their holiday issue for gift packaging ideas. "We try to accommodate our clients; we will even fill the boxes with gifts (or swag, as it's known), and ship them," says Peter.

Looking Back With their Internet sales flourishing and industry-wide recognition, Sarah's Hat Boxes is a lesson in perseverance and hard work. Debbie and Peter look back on the early days without regret. "How could we appreciate the fact that fabric dealers now come to us if we had never had to drive so many hours to find them? What would have been the motivation to work hard and expand the warehouse if I hadn't had to clear a path in front of my television on Sunday afternoon just to watch the New England Patriots play?" Peter mused. When dealing with new vendors, Debbie keeps in mind that she was once in their position. "You have to give people a chance," she says. "We all need a break when starting out. I try to treat everyone with the same respect I want for myself."

Moving Forward The Mills are hoping to inspire others to follow their now-fulfilled dream of starting a business, although they caution that it's not easy and it's certainly not guaranteed to be an overnight success. But the rewards far outweigh the drawbacks. Setting your own hours, meeting more people than you ever thought possible, and never knowing what tomorrow holds are just a few of the positives that drive them. "Every day, we do the same thing, but every day is different. Whether the box is for Paul McCartney or Ringo Starr (yes, we made boxes for them), or the bride down the street who wants a custom box to hold her wedding cards, we feel a sense of excitement that someone is getting enjoyment from our hat boxes," says Debbie. Now that the hat is out of the box, the possibilities are endless. For more information about Sarah's Hat Boxes, please see their ad on the back cover of this magazine, or visit www.sarahshatboxes.com. Laurie Crowley lives in Peterborough, New Hampshire, with her husband, Rob, and her four beautiful children.

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Panama City Centennial Celebration 19 0 9 – 2 0 0 9 By Brenda Rees

The only things that put a gleam in the eyes of early Panama City entrepreneurs and leaders, such as Robert Lee McKenzie, G.W. Jenks and C.J. Demorest, were commerce, railroads, shipping, land development, and trade. Bay County, founded in 1913, had earlier been part of Washington County as well as historical land areas of Walton, Calhoun, Escambia, and Jackson counties. When Panama City was first incorporated on February 23, 1909, it was part of Washington County. One of the earliest places associated with Panama City with a name that sounds European is St. Andrew. A 1719 map by John Senex shows “Bay St. Andrew.” The cartographer for this map also provided illustrations of “Wandering Indians and Man-Eaters.” Other maps published during the American Revolution depict the 14th and 15th English Colonies, West and East Florida, and show Bay St. Andrew.

isions of travel, commerce, and land development gave rise to many cities along Northwest Florida’s Emerald Coast and inspired Bay County’s Panama City, which has been celebrating its Centennial Year in 2009. “The railroad—that’s really what made Panama City,” said local historian and Panama City businessman Bob Hurst. “The president of the railroad had a vision. He wanted a commercial link from Atlanta to South America and the Panama Canal being built at the time. That is where Panama City got its name,” Hurst said. A.B. Steele named his railroad the Atlanta and St. Andrews Bay Railway Company. There were several other railroads in the 1900s. Hurst added, “We recently lost the railroad depot to development. It was such a symbol of Panama City.” Remnants were saved and stored. During the centennial celebration, Panama City’s connections to the Panama Canal are be-

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ing revived. The new Bay County airport may help connect Panama City, the Emerald Coast and Northwest Florida to the Panama Canal. Miami’s port is facing competition from the Emerald Coast’s plan to expand its port because those who use it would have a straighter path for shipping and could avoid Cuba. In the early 1900s, tourism did not contribute much to the local economy, and the sparkling white beaches were not valued. As Elba Wilson Carswell notes in his book about Washington County, Tempestuous Triangle, beach property was quickly traded between counties as officials made statements like, “It is a misshapen tract of worthless land… ”

Similar to what occurred in surrounding counties, a citrus industry developed around what is now Panama City, but hard freezes in 1894 and 1895 killed most of the groves in Northwest Florida. The town of St. Andrews was incorporated in 1908. Millville was one of the area’s largest towns in 1910. St. Andrews and Millville were incorporated into Panama City in 1926. Another early Panama City name was “Floriopolis” platted by Clark B. Slade in 1888. George M. West purchased land along Beach Drive. A.J. Gay’s land is now Panama City Country Club in Lynn Haven. Bridges built in 1929, such as the Hathaway Bridge, and others constructed in the 1940s after World War II changed Panama City.

Hurst, owner of The Appliance Center at 21 West Oak Avenue, knows Panama City history and is involved in its preservation and promotion. He gave me a quick walking tour of downtown Panama City. As we prepared to set out, we talked about Narvaez and Cabeza de Vaca and the failed 1528 Spanish expedition, which sailed out of the Panama City area on its way back to Mexico. Then, we began our tour of historic downtown Panama City. One building of note was the Van Kleeck Building with a sign that reads “Bay County’s Oldest Hardware Store established in 1933.” Next, we strolled by soothing McKenzie Park fountain. Cutting between buildings, we met Caspian Café’s owner, Moris Kouchek. Panama City’s past and future plans for international connections are reflected in this delightful restaurant specializing in Persian and Mediterranean cuisine. Just a few steps from Caspian Café is a display prepared by Bay County Public Library’s Public History Room that showcases a map and plat of “Park Resort.” Its name was later changed to Harrison, after President Harrison, and it became Panama City in 1906. The display also explains that McKenzie Park was City Park and then Magnolia Park. We viewed photographs of Panama City Hall built in 1926 and the Bay Line Depot built in 1924.

Sapp House Photo by Brenda Rees

We then stepped out onto 3rd Avenue, where the visitor can easily see a few moss-draped homes and trees surrounding a park and experience what Panama City was like when it was incorporated in 1909. One of the historic homes guarded by ancient oaks is the McKenzie House. “R.L. McKenzie was Panama City’s first mayor and instrumental in getting Bay County started,” said Hurst. Panama City was still part of Washington County while McKenzie served two terms as a Florida legislator. Across the park is the Jenks House, the oldest wood-frame building still standing in old downtown Panama City. The turret was added later, according to Hurst. Just a few blocks away is the Joshua Mercer Sapp House built in 1916 and later restored by Lauren DeGeorge, according to the 2003 National Register marker. To find out more about Panama City’s Centennial, go to www.panamacity2009.com. The Bay County Public Library, 898 W. 11th St., has a Local History Room open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. The Centennial Committee sponsored numerous 100th birthday events, including a Centennial Year Proclamation at City Hall, the ringing

Bob Hurst Photo by Brenda Rees of a bell bought in 1912 and now owned by the Bay County Historical Society, a POPS Centennial Concert and a Centennial Gala at the Marina Civic Center on Valentine’s Day. A birthday cake on February 23 celebrated the town’s incorporation, and there was a wine tasting in March. Numerous other events throughout the year highlighted this milestone for Panama City. Becky Saunders, the expert on local history and genealogy at the Bay County Library, is Centennial Committee chairwoman. Centennial Committee working groups and chairs are: Educational, Janice Lucas; Community, Jennifer Jones; Special Events, Dutch Sanger; Tourism & Marketing, Bettina Mead; Historical, Marlene Womack and Bob Hurst; and Cultural, Stacey Fontaine. Centennial Calendars (2009 through 2010) and other items are available for purchase at Hurst’s store and other Panama City locations. Beautiful scenes depicted in the historical calendar include “She’s Gone Sailing” by artist Michael Welch, which shows St. Andrew’s Marina facing Uncle Ernie’s Restaurant. Relax and enjoy your visit to historic Panama City during this special Centennial Celebration year. Perhaps you might soon fly into the new Bay County airport and connect to a cruise to the Panama Canal in South America by way of Panama City of Northwest Florida and the Emerald Coast. Brenda Rees is a local historian and Walton County native. She holds a Florida Master Naturalist certificate, and is certified by the South Walton Tourist Development Council, presenting environmental and history programs through her business, Shaping Florida. Rees also holds degrees from Sam Houston State University and Texas A&M University and attended University of West Florida. VIE - Winter 2009

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PEOPLE

PLACES An Evening of Jazz with Gary Fields On Friday, September 25, 2009 Jackson’s Steakhouse in Pensacola, Florida hosted “An Evening of Jazz” with the standout New York recording vocalist and Pensacola native Gary Fields. This exciting night included a three-course, five-star meal presented by Chef Irv Miller to accompany the spectacular show. An American jazz-pop singer, Fields embodies a love for classic and contemporary music, which is evident in the silky-smooth tones of the songs he sang from his debut recording, Sounds About Right! Reminiscent of crooning greats like Frank Sinatra and Tony Bennett, Fields incorporates the qualities of his idols into his uniquely crafted style. Fields sang for two sold-out shows for the evening. For more information on Gary Fields, visit www.garyfieldsmusic.com. Photography by Romona Robbins

Chef Irv Miller

Cate and Collier Merrill

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Gary Fields

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[Standing left to right] Dana Dietrich, Leasing Administrator Howard Group; Meg Norwood, Marketing Coordinator, Sacred Heart on the Emerald Coast [Seated left to right] Merlin Allan, Vice President of Real Estate, Howard Group; Roger Hall, President and Shannon Higgins, Executive Director of Human Resources, Sacred Heart on the Emerald Coast.

Sacred Heart Hospital on the Emerald Coast Selects Grand Boulevard for New Professional Medical Oﬃces Why did Sacred Heart Hospital on the Emerald Coast choose Grand Boulevard for their new professional oﬃces?

“Sacred Heart is truly blessed to have the faithful support of outstanding organizations in our community such as the Howard Group. Our selection of Grand Boulevard for strategic oﬃce space neighboring the hospital is a continuation of our relationship and shared commitment to achieving excellence in service for our community,” said Roger Hall, president of Sacred Heart Hospital on the Emerald Coast.

What makes Grand Boulevard a premium location?

Grand Boulevard at Sandestin® is the new shop, work, play and stay Town Center located in South Walton County at the entrance of Sandestin® Golf and Beach Resort. The Town Center is extending the boulevard through to Sacred Heart Medical Campus in the near future to offer easy access and convenience to Sandestin, Grand Boulevard, medical offices and the hospital. Convenient travelling means never having to drive on Emerald Coast Parkway to access everything you need, from your home or office to the grocery store, doctor appointment or even the hospital.

Why choose Grand Boulevard for your new oﬃce?

• Work in a vibrant environment • Be a part of our growing professional community that will include financial, banking, medical and other professional businesses • Close proximity to Bay County International Airport opening in 2010 • Creative work environment with inspiring views • Numerous casual and fine dining options for associates and clients • Two Marriott hotels offering 300 combined rooms for out-of-town clients • Adjacent to Sacred Heart Hospital on the Emerald Coast Medical Campus • 250,000 SF Class “A” Office Space • 350,000 SF Specialty Retail & Signature Restaurants • 80,000 SF Publix-anchored community retail center

For leasing information, contact: Merlin Allan, Vice President of Real Estate 1-800-832-3306 or oﬃceleasing@grandboulevard.com VIE - Winter 2009

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S L R I G . C IN , t r a m S , g n o r t S g n Celebrati irls Since 1974 G d l o B d n a

Jazayeri hepard By Karen Jessie S y b y h p Photogra

Close your eyes, take a deep breath, and think back to the days of your childhood. Ladies, remember when you were a little girl, maybe ten years old, playing Barbie with your girlfriends or tackling that perfect climbing tree in the backyard. Gentlemen, think about your little girl or niece with the glowing face, playing dress up or kicking a soccer ball. Nothing can compare to a childhood where the exuberance of youth, the purity of existence, and unconditional love are experienced. Now imagine yourself walking through a pair of French doors. Open your eyes, and you are surrounded by a hundred little girls laughing, playing, learningâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;just being themselves. These are strong, smart, and bold girls. 116

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These are the girls of Girls Inc. Girls Incorporated of Bay County (Girls Inc.) is a special place. This is where all girls are encouraged to follow their dreams and aim for the stars and where all girls, regardless of their backgrounds, are encouraged to pursue their passions through educational afterschool and summer programs. Year-round, the Girls Inc. center is filled with hundreds of girls ages six to sixteen. Imagine yourself entering this world where girls participate in carefree activities, all the while building the foundations for their future successes.

The Foundation for Success Over thirty-five years ago, Girls Incorporated of Bay County, a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, opened its doors in central Panama City to provide a much-needed service in the region, becoming the sole provider of a program that focuses on the development of female leaders. Girls Inc. offers a specialized, supplemental educational curriculum that meets the current needs of young women within the local community. From 2 to 6 p.m. during the school year and from 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. during the summer, spring break, and special school holidays, the Girls Inc. center is an exciting, ever-changing, dynamic site offering fun and learning. Girls Incorporated of Bay County is the local affiliate of the national organization. There are over 1,000 Girls Inc. affiliates nationwide, all of whom strive to encourage girls to take risks and master physical, intellectual, and emotional challenges. Association with the national organization provides program resources that focus on addressing math and science education, pregnancy and drug abuse prevention, media and economic literacy, adolescent health, violence prevention and sports participation. However, all funding and application of these programs lie solely in the hands of the local Girls Inc. organizations.

De’Shanti Hayes and Alysa Benson

Girl of the Year For twelve-year-old Taylor, Girls Inc. has been a mainstay in her life for the last six years, and she exudes characteristics that Girls Inc. attempts to instill in each of its attendees. Taylor’s life story is similar to those of many readers of this story. She was born in Panama City—a regular girl, in a regular family. However, at twelve she is already setting herself up for a successful future. Taylor is a straightA student at Jinks Middle School, a leader in her community, an active participant in volunteer and school organizations, and a role model for her peer group; most importantly, she believes in her abilities. Taylor was chosen as Girls Inc. 2009 Girl of the Year. Her mom, Jennifer, credits “much of what Taylor has become to her experiences at Girls Inc.”

When asked what she has gleaned from Girls Inc., Taylor answered, “Whatever it is that I am learning—cultures and cuisines from around the world or how to build a robot— everything focuses on letting each person develop her skills in an unconditionally supportive, constructive environment. That is why I like it here. Every day I am learning how to become a stronger, smarter person. That will help me now and in the future.” Taylor knows she is a shining star, but this knowledge doesn’t go to her head. She knows she is a role model, especially to the younger girls. In fact, her foresight and goals are so well defined that she has already made plans for college. She will apply for the Girls Inc. college scholarships that will be available to her in about five years.

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due to orld crumble w e th g in ee n’t easy. S girl, as if I had Growing up is ed for being a g d ju g n ei B . hing you’ve easy Having everyt . violence isn’t sy ea ’t n is , r that ing isn’t easy. any control ove en waking up to having noth ing that d th end and realiz to s le ever wanted an b u o tr e king you want th isn’t easy. Loo ce n le o Knowing that vi f o but hearing irl in a world u can become you’re just a g yo at h w g n ei e all the and se owing you hav n K into the future . sy ea ’t n makes a u down is Incorporated ls ir others put yo G at le p ort of peo love and supp . girl’s life easier d love, With thanks an D., age 14

Taylor’s story is just one of many similar accounts that you will hear at Girls Inc. But Taylor is one of the lucky ones. She has the family support that will help her along her road into the future. Unfortunately, many girls are not quite so lucky. Heartbreaking stories abound—stories that will turn a listener’s stomach. Six-year-olds open up and relate traumatic experiences that no adult, much less a child, should ever face. However, that is one of the beautiful things about Girls Inc. For hours every day, these girls, regardless of their backgrounds, come together on an equal playing field. They are in a safe haven. They can forget about their problems and just be themselves.

United as One Each day at the Girls Inc. center, the focus is on two primary goals. The first is to have fun, and the second is to learn. The fun part comes rather easily. The open-arms policy and repetitious teaching of acceptance means there are few cliques, minimal peer pressure, and hardly any behavioral problems. Since the center handles such a large demographic (girls six to sixteen years old), this is quite an accomplishment.

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Recognizing that each girl has unique interests, Girls Inc. makes sure that girls are never bored. Free time is sandwiched between a scheduled homework period and a structured program hour. Special activities take place every Friday and various field trips—camping, marine camp, museums, outdoor centers, etc.—are available throughout the year. Older girls can look forward to the unique opportunity of participating as members of a Step Staff. This is a special program for girls

Front Row: Shelby Stokking, Rebecca Carter, Destiny Worley, Grace Burkett; Back: Ashley Gonzalez

at the seventh-grade level and up to assist full-time staff in the day-to-day running of the center. These girls not only accept ownership in the organization, but they are also learning vital career skills. Each girl must apply for the position, interview, follow a schedule, clock in on time, and fulfill her work responsibilities, such as answering phones, helping younger girls, assisting program teachers, and helping with office chores. After working a minimum number of hours each term, the girls are rewarded with a special trip to a local water park.

Girls Inc. University 2009 Facing an increasing demand from the community, Girls Inc. raised the bar for the summer 2009 program by offering Girls Inc. University or GIU, which encompassed seven key program areas: Technology, Oceanography, Visual Arts, Health, Cultures and Cuisines from Around the World, Business, and Sports. Program participants were given Tshirts featuring the GIU emblem and colors (red and white), and a graduation celebration upon completion. This summer, Girls Inc. and the Bay County Health Department partnered to offer a special program titled the “Artful Truth.” The Bay County Health Department’s Tobacco Prevention Program, with funding provided by

Bottom group picture taken on August 12, 2009 at the Visual Art Center downtown for the Artful Truth Exhibit Top Left: Peggy Caldwell- Tobacco Prevention Specialist with the Bay County Health Department, Karen Jazayeri- Executive Director for Girls Inc. of Bay County, The group of girls are from Girls Inc. and Students Working Against Tobacco

Janae Burris and Zakkiyah Battles the State of Florida, teaches youth the dangers of using tobacco, employing traditional art techniques as the medium for learning. Each day the girls were taught art by local phenomenon Dr. Michelle Creel and received tobacco prevention lessons from the Health Department team. The climax of this program occurred the week of August 12–18 when all the artwork went on public display at the Visual Arts Center in downtown Panama City. The works ranged from an interactive “tobacco jungle” created by the first- and second-grade girls, to a 15by 20-foot hand-sewn quilt by the seventhand eighth-grade girls. Large-scale murals, inspired by the works of Keith Haring, sprang from the imaginations of the sixth-grade girls; and teenagers, inspired by Marc Chagall, created individual murals and mosaic works, which many viewers thought were part of the permanent exhibit at the Visual Arts Center.

Hannah Moody and Caitlyn Benson girls who have nowhere else to go. The young women who now call this place home have experienced trauma but are now excelling as they progress towards adulthood. There are only a few options for children in Bay County once they enter state custody: shelters, foster care, adoption, or Clair’s House, which feels like a home. Life at Clair’s House is like that experienced in any other traditional family, with after-school activities, rules, point systems, allowance, and unconditional love. Most, if not all, of these elements are brand new experiences for the girls. Harless said, “Girl’s Inc. is the only option in Bay County that adheres to the same standards that I do: structure, love, boundaries and responsibility.” Camille (whose name

Urbriah Edwards and Markayla Jones was changed to protect her privacy) came to Clair’s House and subsequently to the 2009 Girls Inc. summer program with a little bit of an “attitude.” However, within weeks, everyone noticed a change. The Step Staff Program taught Camille accountability and an understanding that one cannot quit when something does not go her way. Camille’s face showed her exhilaration when she received her letter of recommendation at the end of the program, according to Harless, who pointed out that this is one of the first times Camille has received positive affirmation outside of Clair’s House. Something else the Clair’s House girls took away from the Girls Inc. summer session was an understanding of philanthropy. Early in the

Fortunately, the results of the girls’ hard work did not end in August. The exhibit will tour various destinations in Florida, and particular pieces may be incorporated in the World Health Organization’s Summit on Tobacco next year.

Clair’s House Vicky Harless, a house parent for Clair’s House, sends her girls to participate in the Girls Inc. program every summer. Clair’s House, part of the nonprofit Children’s Home Society, provides long-term family-style housing for up to ten VIE - Winter 2009

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A daily scene from the Girls Inc. multipurpose room. Learning patience before programs begin.

summer, the business program introduced the girls to residents at Lisenby Retirement Center. Not surprisingly, the center residents and the girls loved the reciprocal attention. This fall, without any prodding, the Clair’s House girls continue to visit their new friends every Saturday. They play bingo, give manicures, organize parties, and get one-on-one attention from people who believe in them.

The Community Makes the Difference In order to continue its good work, Girls Inc. looks for funding from a variety of sources: functioning as a United Way affiliate agency, partnering with other local organizations, applying for grants, holding fund-raisers, or accepting generous contributions from members of the community. The organization’s operating goal is to keep the enrollment fees as low as possible so that all girls have an opportunity to attend. Although Girls Inc. is open to every girl, a vast percentage of the girls’ families are at or below the federal poverty line, and they simply 120

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cannot afford another bill. That is where Girls Inc. scholarships help these families. This year, with the nation’s precarious economic position, scholarship requests skyrocketed; nevertheless, not one girl’s request was declined. Parents do not blink twice when they hear the requirements—they know the value of what their daughter is receiving. Girls Inc. has also felt pressure due to a nationwide decline in donations to nonprofit organizations, but by streamlining overhead costs and thinking outside the box, it continues to provide top-notch services to the over 450 girls who walked through its doors this year. The agency’s success could not have been achieved without the tremendous support it receives from the community. To contact Girls Incorporated of Bay County Girls Incorporated of Bay County 1100 Fountain Ave. Panama City, FL 32401 www.girlsincofbaycounty.org 850-769-6703 or fax 850-747-0801

Karen Jazayeri, Executive Director kjazayeri@girlsincofbaycounty.org To contact Clair’s House, a division of Children’s Home Society Vicky Harless Emerald Coast Division 914 Harrison Ave. Panama City, FL 32401 850-215-8194 maria.harless@chsfl.org

Karen Jazayeri is the executive director for Girls Inc. of Bay County. She is a passionate lifelong Floridian dedicated to ensuring a solid foundation for the future development of the state. Her professional background includes a master’s degree in international politics and development with subsequent professional experience through a prior career in Tallahassee working in regional public affairs and public relations. Her personal hobbies include international travel and sports.

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Serving the Forgotten Poor B LU E S K I E S A H E A D W I T H M E R C Y S H I P S AT T H E H E L M By Marianne Duffey | Photography submitted by Mercy Ships

olitical debates regarding health care have been center stage in the media for months and have become fodder for daily conversations with friends, family, and coworkers. No matter which side of the debate one chooses, it’s an inspiration to know about the amazing healing, hope, and mercy that is already being provided by others. Cofounded by Don and Deyon Stephens, Mercy Ships is a global charity that operates a fleet of hospital ships. Following the example of Jesus, Mercy Ships brings hope and healing to “the forgotten poor” by mobilizing people and resources worldwide. It began in 1978 with the purchase of the retired ocean liner, Anastasis. Since that time, various ships of the fleet have served more than 150 ports in developing nations around the world and have brought lasting change to millions. One ship, the Caribbean Mercy, called to port in Pensacola on more than one occasion. When giving is the primary objective of an organization, its funding relies on the gifts of money and time by others. The awesome undertaking by Mercy Ships is provided for, in part, through the generous support from corporate partners

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such as Johnson & Johnson, Alcon, 3M, and Hospira, not to mention the financial support from many churches and charitable individuals. In 2007, Nikon United Kingdom named Mercy Ships its charity of the year; the corporate sponsor had generously donated a Nikon COOLSCOPE to the Anastasis in 2005, which has since been transferred to the current flagship, Africa Mercy. Another significant sponsor is Rotary International, an organization of service clubs located all over the world. The benevolent support of the Oak Foundation is openly honored with a plaque bearing its name at the entrance of the hospital vessel. Mercy Ships’ current vessel, Africa Mercy, was acquired in 1999 and is currently in Benin, West Africa. Converted from a Danish rail ferry, it is now the world’s largest nongovernmental state-of-the-art hospital ship. Sponsored

Mercy Ships’ current vessel, Africa Mercy, was acquired in 1999 and is currently in Benin, West Africa. Converted from a Danish rail ferry, it is now the world’s largest nongovernmental state-ofthe-art hospital ship.

Edoh after surgery

by corporate and individual donors, it was transformed with the addition of six operating theatres and a 78-bed patient ward. Their ship boasts an impressive average crew of 450. The floating hospital is divided into quadrants that comprise operating theatres, supply/services, recovery/ intensive care, and low-dependency wards. The surgical capacity is expected to exceed 5,000 onboard surgical interventions per year. The volunteer staff perform cataract removal/lens implant, tumor removal, cleft lip and palate reconstruction, dental procedures, and orthopedic and obstetric fistula repair. Their diagnostic services include CT scans, X-ray imaging, and laboratory analyses. The Nikon COOLSCOPE allows doctors to obtain instant diagnoses over the Internet from pathologists based in the United Kingdom. The diagnostic information, along with all other data and telephone calls, is transmitted via an onboard satellite communication system. In addition to the enormous medical contributions that Mercy Ships provide, they also provide community empowerment programs designed to empower and facilitate increased well-being. They astutely recognize that for change to be substantial, it must be grounded with a change in community thinking. Therefore, they provide rehabilitation programs, small business and skills training, women’s empowerment projects, community health education, clean water and sanitation programs, agricultural programs, and HIV/ AIDS intervention programs.

Before

and grow Mercy Ships presence in New England. They were thrilled!

In 2000, the Connellys participated in a five-month training program in Texas. Now, with almost ten years working with Mercy Ships, the ConI recently had the privilege of meeting Kathie Connelly, Mercy Ship’s renellys recruit medical and nonmedical volunteers for Mercy Ships progional development manager in New England. She and her husband, Peter, grams. They also raise money and awareness by speaking at hospitals, work together out of their home office in Duxbury, Massachusetts. Kathie Rotary Clubs, schools and churches. The recruits include surgeons for and Peter were originally introduced to Mercy Ships years ago at a church the ship’s core competencies: orthopedics, ophthalmology, dental and service. They were so inspired by what they heard, they knew that they wantwomen’s issues. Kathie, herself a critical care nurse, feels at home speaking ed to be involved—the Mercy Ships message spoke to their hearts. At the directly with these health care professionals. When speaking to recruits time, they were parents to two young children, Mary Elizabeth and Dennis. following their volunteer assignment, Kathie remarks that the common Both children, now young adults, have had complicated medical issues since birth. The Connellys remembered thinking that their children have benefited from the best medical care the world has to offer and imagining the The floating hospital is divided into quadrants that comprise operating hardship and sorrow of those not able to obtain theatres, supply/services, recovery/intensive care, and low-dependency adequate medical care. Their involvement began wards. The surgical capacity is expected to exceed 5,000 onboard when they spoke to Don Stephens. He said he surgical interventions per year. could use them right where they were to build VIE - Winter 2009

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response from the participants is that the experience was so profound that their lives will never be the same.

The Connelly Family

The Mercy Ships story cannot be fully appreciated and understood without knowing about some of the people whose lives have been transformed. For instance, there’s nine-year-old Edoh, who had a huge growth distending the entire left side of her face, pushing its way through the bone. This condition not only caused terrible disfigurement, but also difficulty in eating. Today, after several successful onboard surgeries, Edoh’s growth has been substantially reduced, and she now looks forward to finishing school so she can be trained as a nurse. Pricilla’s crossed eyes not only impaired her vision, but also caused her to be ridiculed because of her appearance. When Mercy Ships sailed into

Paul Tonetti By Gerald Burwell A little over thirteen years ago, longtime resident and Pensacola native Paul Tonetti embarked upon a ten-year, life-changing voyage. About a year prior to his journey, the pastor of Gulf Breeze United Methodist Church, Dr. Herb Sadler, told Paul that God had a purpose for him— but his mission would not be here at home. Paul was intrigued by the message. How was he going to find this mission, and where was it going to take him? Not long after, Paul received his first divine invitation. In December of 1996, Mercy Ships’ Caribbean Mercy called to the Port of Pensacola for a six-week public relations and fund-raising campaign, and to receive upgrades to its operating rooms and equipment. “While in port, some friends from my Christian youth group had been invited by their church to take a tour of the hospital ship and asked me to come along,” said Paul. “My weekend plans were full and I had no time to spend childishly exploring the bulkheads of an old ship—or so I thought.” But Paul was not let off that easily. A short time afterwards, he received a call from a young couple who operated a hotel in Pensacola Beach. His friends’ request was simple: it was the shoulder season, and they were in need of a night off from a business that hardly rested. “There was not much activity at the front desk, so my interest was easily captivated by television,” mused Paul. “During a program break, a commercial caught my attention that would forever change my life.” The commercial was for Mercy Ships, and it was the first time that they had ever run a television advertisement campaign.

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Paul instantly felt something working inside of him. He wrote down the contact information and called. Within a couple of months I found myself traveling to Duluth, Minnesota, where the Caribbean Mercy was docked at the time,” he continued. “Over the course of the following months, while the ship made its ports of call to pick up supplies and volunteers, I received the training that I would need for my exciting new life aboard the floating ministry for at least the next two years.” But his experiences were so profound and life-changing that before he knew it, two years quickly grew into ten. Thanks to Mercy Ships, Paul Tonetti has a passion for his newfound life. For the past three years, he has been based in Guatemala, where he oversees the operation and funding for three Christian radio stations. Paul has nothing but praise for Mercy Ships, and he credits his time with the organization for laying the foundation for the ministry that he now performs. “What impacted me most was how the lives that Mercy Ships touched were so profoundly changed for the better,” said Paul. “The people they help are not only saved from their medical afflictions but are also given hope—hope that then transcends into aspirations, goals, and dreams for a better life. And, we are not talking about a handful of people here; we are talking about many thousands!” This is the type of work for which Mercy Ships has equipped Paul, whose ministry is yet another testament to the influence of the Mercy Ships vision.

Today, after several successful onboard surgeries, Edoh’s growth has been substantially reduced, and she now looks forward to finishing school so she can be trained as a nurse. her town in Ghana, they performed a life-changing operation. Aside from her improved vision, Pricilla no longer faces a future filled with ridicule. Justine and Parra were the first two women to receive corrective surgeries for obstetric fistula during the 2009 Field Service in Benin. Their injuries, the result of obstructed childbirth, are common in places where medical intervention is not available. In over 90 percent of the cases, the baby does not survive and the mother becomes incontinent. As a result, the women are often shunned by their communities and even their families. Not only did Mercy Ships perform the corrective surgery to heal the women, but volunteers also honored them with a ceremony of new beginnings, which included giving each woman a new dress. Justine and Parra’s ceremony celebrated new hope and new life. “I have so much to thank God for. I feel no pain in my body and I feel happy in my heart,” Justine said.

From the ship’s captain to the volunteers, from the founders who had a vision to the doctors and corporations who donate their time and services— the people involved with Mercy Ships give hope to us all. Their selfless acts are an inspiration to each of us. They also serve as a reminder that the plight of many is much worse than our own. The worsening economy has created (or at least re-created) camaraderie in communities across America and the world. By bonding together in service to one another, the world can be a better place. Soon, in early 2010, the Africa Mercy will be headed to Togo, West Africa, where it will continue to bring hope and healing.

For more information about helping with this incredible work of mercy, you can log on to www.mercyships.org or call (800) 772-SHIP (7447). VIE - Winter 2009

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VIE – People + Places is excited to announce the debut of the Northwest Florida Golf Trail, brought to you by Coastal Vision 3000! The purpose of the Northwest Florida Golf Trail – Golf THE Beach is to create awareness of the region as a premier golf destination both nationally and internationally.

Sprinkled along 227 miles of beautiful Northwest Florida from Apalachicola to Pensacola—known as THE Beach—several prestigious courses offer a unique golf experience unlike what is available anywhere else in Florida, the Southeast, or the nation. The courses are as diverse as their locations and in a climate that is ideal for year-round play. Play one course in the morning and, after a few minutes’ drive, a different course in the afternoon. Experience the signature features and challenging layouts of golf ’s most renowned course designers, including Arnold Palmer, Davis Love III, Fred Couples, Jack Nicklaus, Rees Jones, and Tom Jackson. All of this is set amid the charm and splendor of one of America’s favorite coastal vacation destinations, complemented by an abundance of award-winning restaurants and accommodations, world-class resorts, unique shops, and some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. For those flying in, airports that are just minutes from the courses are conveniently located in Pensacola, Ft.

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Walton Beach, Destin, and Panama City. With the announcement that Southwest Airlines will begin service to the new and muchanticipated Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport as soon as May 2010, the Northwest Florida Golf Trail will soon be more accessible to travelers from the world over. In this guide, you will find listings of several courses from the Northwest Florida Golf Trail that are open to both residents and visitors alike. Booking your next golf trip has never been easier—contact one of the golf courses or hotels on the following pages or visit their websites to book your tee times and accommodations. Or, go to www.TheBeachFla.com to learn more on how to make your next golf round an unforgettable one. You will be able to experience the game as it was meant to be played—at THE Beach. Keep checking back as we continue to add courses and accommodations to the Northwest Florida Golf Trail!

– NO RTHWEST FLO RIDA –

Northwest Florida

GU LF OF ME XIC O

KELLY PLANTATION GOLF CLUB

REGATTA BAY

Consistently rated 4 ½ stars by Golf Digest, this Fred Couples signature course is one of the best conditioned and highly acclaimed courses in the area. Experience over 7,000 yards of manicured fairways, contoured greens, strategically placed hazards, and picturesque views of the Choctawhatchee Bay.

Ranked by Golf Digest as one of the Top Courses in North America & Top 15 Florida “Places to Play,” Regatta Bay’s championship course is one that players of all skill levels enjoy. Designed by acclaimed course architect Robert C. Walker to be as challenging to the professional as it is fun to the novice.

850.650.7600 | 307 Kelly Plantation Drive, Destin, FL 32541 www.kellyplantationgolf.com

Destin Florida | 850-337-8080 | www.regattabay.com PGA Professional: Dan Shelton VIE - Winter 2009

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BAYTOWNE GOLF CLUB

THE RAVEN GOLF CLUB

Guests experience the best of both worlds, with landing areas that invite guests to unleash the driver, and greens that reward a strategically placed approach shot. The front nine takes you to the edge of the Choctawhatchee Bay, while the back nine gives you a glimpse of the Gulf of Mexico and the white sand beaches of Sandestin.

Masterfully carved in some of the most scenic terrain in the resort, Robert Trent Jones Jr. crafted this unique and visually stunning 6,900-yard, par 71 course. Rated 4 Â˝ out of 5 stars by Golf Digest magazine, the Raven is a natural wonder that presents drama and strategy on every tee.

Mention VIE magazine, and get a round of golf for you and a friend for only $90. Expires February 15, 2010. For tee times (850) 267-8155 | www.sandestin.com/golfers

Mention VIE magazine, and you and a friend can receive a round of golf for only $120. Expires February 15, 2010. For tee times (850) 267-8155 | www.sandestin.com/golfers

BURNT PINE GOLF CLUB

THE LINKS COURSE

An unrivaled experience on Floridaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s northwest Gulf Coast, course architect Rees Jones proves in this 7,000-yard layout why he is one of the most respected architects in the world. Breathtaking views along the Choctawhatchee Bay highlight the back nine, while the front side brings golfers through the forests and wetlands of the Emerald Coast.

The Links is the ultimate in risk-reward golf, with some of the most spectacular views on the Emerald Coast. With five holes that run along the Choctawhatchee Bay, guests are treated to a links style golf outing like no other. Renowned architect Tom Jackson designed this winding layout against the backdrop of the Baytowne Marina and the Choctawhatchee Bay.

Open to Club members and Sandestin Resort guests. Special packages available. For tee times (850) 267-6500 | www.sandestin.com/golfers

Mention VIE magazine, and you and a friend can receive a round of golf for only $80. Expires February 15, 2010. For Tee-times (850) 267-8144 | www.sandestin.com/golfers

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SANTA ROSA GOLF CLUB

ORIGINS

Davis Love lll Golf Design Take a break from the resorts and play where the natural vegetation frames every hole and manicured greens are surrounded by amazing wildlife. At Santa Rosa Golf and Beach Club you will be treated to outstanding service and enjoy a course with two holes overlooking the Gulf of Mexico. The recently added Hank Johnson School of Golf provides quality instruction by top-ranked professionals.

Plays as a six-hole regulation course, nine-hole executive course, tenhole par-3 course; designed to encourage junior golfers, beginners and families to participate in the game of golf and remain engaged throughout their recreational lives. Golf made simple and fun again, yet challenging enough to retain the interest of avid players.

334 Golf Club Drive, Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459 850.267.2229 | www.santarosaclub.com

530 Pathways Drive, Watersound, FL 32413 850.231.7600 | www.originsgolfclub.com

HOMBRE GOLF CLUB

BAY POINT GOLF CLUB

PLAY WHERE THE PROS PLAY! Six-, ten- and twenty-round passes on sale now! Hombre features the Golf Academy with Adam Brack, GPS on every cart, club rentals, Wi-Fi, 300-yard driving range, golf shop and bar & grill, serving breakfast and lunch daily. Rounds from $40.00.

Located minutes from the white sandy beaches of Panama City, Bay Point Golf Resort & Spa has long been recognized as one of Florida’s most popular and respected golf destinations. Discover 36-holes of championship golf on two award-winning golf courses – the Nicklaus Design Course and the Meadows Course.

850.234.3673 for Tee Times | www.hombregolfclub.com 120 Coyote Pass | Panama City Beach, FL 32407

850.235.6950 | 4701 Bay Point Rd., Panama City, FL 32408 www.baypointgolf.com VIE - Winter 2009

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PEOPLE

PLACES Animoré The First Annual Animoré, a benefit for the love of animals, was held at 6 p.m. on September 25, 2009 at Bentley’s on the Bay (formerly 331 Restaurant). Guests enjoyed live music, heavy hors d’oeuvres, cocktails, and views of the bay while browsing a variety of silent auction items. Laurie Hood, founder and CEO of Alaqua Animal Refuge, shared the organization’s amazing journey in their continued efforts to rescue and provide care for animals in the community. Photography by Lisa Ferrick

Russ and Michelle Tommey

Left to Right: Leslie Stricklin, Tiffany Davis, Stacey McGilvray, and Christine Caldarelli

Ann Hartley, Lori Klinger, George Hartley, and Craig Klinger

Wyman and Erica Pierce

Laura Ekstrom, Cari DeGregorio, Alexa Pleas, and David DeGregorio

Cheryl Walker and Laurie Hood 134

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Left to Right: Dr. Leah Thompson, Phil Gagnon, Taylor and Laurie Hood

A VIEW TO DINE FOR R ESTAU R A N TS & N I G H T L I F E

COMMANDERS PALACE CAMELLIA GRILL

EMERALD COAST COFFEE AND GRILL HARRY T’S LUCKY SNAPPER PAT OBRIENS SU GA R L A N D T H E C R A Z Y L O B S T E R C LU B AQ UA G R A N D E V ISTA T RO PI C A L S M O OT H I E J E ST E R S

Located at the foot of the Destin Bridge I www.HarborWalkDestin.com VIE - Winter 2009

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Beautiful packaging for beautiful things. Find the magic insideâ&#x20AC;Ś

www.SarahsHatBoxes.com Handmade fabric boxes for all occasions and for any reason. You donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t even need a hat.

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