Emerald Coast Magazine April-May 2012 Issue by Rowland Publishing, Inc.

IN THE STUDIO WITH SUNDAL Singer, songwriter, musician and … producer

THE EMER ALD COAST MAGA ZINE

‘COOL IT’ TO LOSE IT We give a new non-invasive fat-loss procedure a test drive ANNIKA SORENSTAM Gets tips-y with us

Rescue Me! FROM HOW TO SAVE WOUNDED WILDLIFE TO IMPROVING YOUR WELLNESS AND BODY IMAGE, A LACKLUSTER LAWN … EVEN THAT GOLF SWING. THIS SPRING ISSUE IS SURE TO FIX WHAT AILS YOU!

These raccoon cubs are just a few of the 2,000 wild animals Emerald Coast Wildlife Rescue will rescue, rehabilitate and release (if possible) in a given year. These masked critters were lucky and were released a week after this photo was taken. Photo by Scott Holstein.

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com Aprilâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;May 2012

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contents

The Emerald Coast Magazine April + May 2012 With more than 1,000 consigners bringing in hundreds of designer apparel, accessories, furniture and home décor weekly into the two side-by-side businesses at Ava’s Attic in Miramar Beach, motherdaughter duo Susan Henry (left) and Courtney Hood say their success is all “relative.”

in the e.c. 19 Snapshot We speak to a “special” new soldier. 20 Chat Learn some healing life lessons from Laurie Beck. 22 W hat’s Haute? It’s time to sip, swirl and strut all things wine. 26 P ersonality Mike Ragsdale tells us how to take a leap of faith.

Photos by Scott Holstein (p. 50 and p. 36); Courtesy Nick Tomecek/Northwest Florida Daily News (p. 28) And Amanresorts (p. 76)

28 W ell-Worded Martha LaGuardiaKotite celebrates the “Glory” that unites us all. 31 S cene Learn about your Emerald Coast colleagues, friends and neighbors.

happenings 33 Spotlight Mary Hong’s talent is crystal clear. 34 Vibe Donnie Sundal releases his all time top five fav songs and more. 38 Calendar These events will put a Spring into your step. 41 Social Studies Are you the toast of the Emerald Coast? Find out who is.

the good life 75 Eudaimonia Head to Hogtown to get your art fix.

F E AT UREs

76 Going Places Mysterious, exotic, enlightening China!

50 I Kin Relate

Meet three dynamite mother-daughter business duos. By Lisa McKinney

Wild 58 Gisoing Only Natural

82 In Motion Great great Annika Sorenstam has a tip for you. 84 Habitat Get a great lawn and make your neighbors green with envy. 86 Gardening Everything is coming up roses thanks to Ms. Grow-It-All. 88 Test Drive We try out a hot new “cool” skin therapy.

Rescue organizations nurture Northwest Florida’s nature. By Zandra Wolfgram

90 Flavor A great glass of wine stems from this. 95 Dining Let us guide you to savor the flavors of the Emerald Coast. 95 A Taste For... Clean, organic, healthy eating! 97 On the Menu We break down the Wall of … Chocolate and more.

A word with You

28 Follow us @emeraldcoastmag

34 Like us at facebook.com/emeraldcoast

12 14 16 17 1 00

F rom the Publisher Editor’s Note Contributors Feedback The Last Word

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com April–May 2012

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Vol. 13, No. 2 April–May 2012 The Emerald Coast Magazine

Love Your Style Oh Baby Baby

Publisher Brian E. Rowland Editor Zandra Wolfgram Designers Jennifer Ekrut, Laura Patrick, Shruti Shah STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER Scott Holstein Staff Writer Jason Dehart Contributing Writers Susan Benton, Jared Cramblet, Wendy O. Dixon, Jennifer Howard, Lis King, Tracy Louthain, Jack Macalevy, Maryann Makekau, Lisa McKinney, Thomas J. Monigan, Audrey Post, Zandra Wolfgram Contributing Photographers Patrick Engman, Shelly Swanger, Allison Yii TRAFFIC Coordinator Lisa Sostre sales executives Rhonda Chaloupka, Chris St. John, Tracy Mulligan emeraldcoastmagazine.com facebook: emeraldcoast, twitter: emeraldcoastmag

President Brian E. Rowland Creative Director Lawrence Davidson Director of Editorial Services Linda Kleindienst Production Manager Daniel Vitter Manager of Finance and HR Angela Cundiff Director of New Business Development Dan Parisi Marketing and Media Development Manager McKenzie Burleigh Administrator of Sales and Events Marjorie Stone Client Service Representative Caroline Conway Assistant Creative Director Saige Roberts Editorial Designer Jennifer Ekrut

BEST WOMEN’S CLOTHING

Graphic Designers Laura Patrick, Shruti Shah Production Specialist Melinda Lanigan Network Administrator Daniel Vitter Receptionist Amy Lewis rowlandpublishing.com, facebook.com/RPIcreative

Editorial Office 1932 Miccosukee Road, Tallahassee, FL, 32308 Customer Service & Submissions EC Magazine and Rowland Publishing, Inc. are not responsible for unsolicited manuscripts, photography or artwork. Editorial contributions are welcomed and encouraged but will not be returned. EC Magazine reserves the right to publish any letters to the editor. Subscriptions & Availability $30 a year (six issues). To subscribe, call 850-878-0554 or visit emeraldcoastmagazine.com. EC Magazine can be purchased at Barnes and Noble in Destin and Books-A-Million in Destin and at Sun Plaza in Mary Esther. Copyright April 2012 Emerald Coast Magazine Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is prohibited.

850.837.5565 Located Across From The Destin Commons, Next to Publix

Proud member of the Florida Magazine Association

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com April–May 2012

from the publisher A Sense of Optimism Returns to the Emerald Coast

Optimism is a noun that means having a tendency to have a favorable view of things — and the belief that good things will prevail. The synonyms of optimism include confidence, hopefulness, cheerfulness and brightness. Over the past four years, I have met many business owners of Northwest Florida and watched them navigate challenges and obstacles connected with the Great Recession, the housing bust and then the Gulf oil spill. Many had similar stories reflecting their battles to just make ends meet and keep staff employed, all the while looking hard to find the light at the end of what appeared to be a very long tunnel. Many felt that things could not get worse — unless a hurricane stormed ashore. The prevailing feeling during this time was pessimism, the antonym of optimism, and cynicism. I heard plenty of woeful stories but grew weary of them because it does no good for a person, and those around him or her, to keep thinking and hearing negative thoughts. But finally in 2011, our coastal communities had the best summer season in probably a decade. And the projections are that the 2012 season will match or outpace last year. Now, from those same people, I’m beginning to hear positive and hopeful voices talking about their lives and their businesses. Car sales in the month of February were up 16 percent. Consumer sales in the retail market are increasing. The real estate industry is finally seeing some activity again. The bottom line: Americans have held back long enough. We are an economy built on consumption, and dollars are again being spent. A true sense of optimism is prevailing now, and I feel that the more we speak positively, act positively and encourage those around us to do the same, we all can become an integral part of an economy that is definitely on the rebound. It is so critical for us all to maintain and foster this renewed positive outlook on life and our local economy. It will ultimately result in more homes being sold and built, more jobs being created — and more people becoming genuinely happy once again. I’ve been accused of being an eternal optimist. That’s okay. I consider it a high compliment. It’s just the way that I choose to look at life and live it. It has probably also been the most critical factor in helping me navigate EC Magazine and the rest of my publishing interests in Northwest Florida through the last several years and bring them to the point where we are today. It should be no surprise to anyone that studies have shown an optimistic attitude leads to good health. It is believed to protect us against strokes, give us a stronger immune system, allow our wounds to heal faster and shield us from heart disease. Optimism is said by some to help us recover faster from surgeries and better cope with diseases. Hmmm. I don’t see a downside in this. I truly wish everyone on the Emerald Coast a prosperous and happy season ahead. This might be a good time to infect your employees, friends and neighbors with a heavy dose of optimism. It will help their health and yours — and the economy of the Emerald Coast. — B rian Rowland browland@rowlandpublishing.com

on the cover

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Photo by Scott Holstein

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com Aprilâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;May 2012

editor’s note I recently had lunch with a group of old friends at a great seafood place on the beach. We noticed an injured seagull being tossed in the surf. Though it was a sad ending to a great gathering, it felt good to help scoop him up out of the surf and into a cardboard box. Though she lives in the opposite direction, one of my friends volunteered to escort our new friend to the Emerald Coast Wildlife Rescue in Fort Walton Beach. If our hope alone could heal him, our fallen feathered buddy would be sure to survive. Survival sounds like such a heavy, somber topic better left to those coming back from the Iraq War, but I have been thinking about it since meeting a few amazing women recently who define themselves as survivors or are in the business of survival. It was serendipitous, but the more I thought about it, the more it struck me that we are all likely surviving something — the economy, a health issue, a family ordeal. Let’s face it; even everyday life has its challenges. There is certainly a spectrum. And I am not pretending to be on the high end by any means. I firmly believe things could always be worse. Still, meeting these women and hearing their stories gave me comfort in the fact that none of us are alone. Award-winning author Martha LaGuardia-Kotite, who is featured in Well Worded, had to do what it took to survive through college to a brighter future, and again survive by being creative and flexible as a single mother raising her son in New York. But she’d rather tell you the stories of dozens of men and women in uniform she calls the real heroes of life — those who risk their lives so others may live. And of the first courageous women who graduated from military academies who endured harassment, ridicule and sadly even more unspoken things, only to emerge as leaders undeterred on their end goal — to proudly wear a uniform and serve a country they love in hope of defending the ultimate privilege, freedom. Due to her mental strength and healing heart Laurie Beck, whom we profile in Chat, lives in peace. She has defied unlikely odds against cancer and “wins” every day she operates her Pilates studio, designs a piece of jewelry or shares a healing lesson from her recent memoir. Dorothy Kaufmann and Amanda Wilkerson, the leaders of Northwest Florida’s premier wildlife refuge organizations, definitely know a little about survival. Seven days a week their respective teams come to the rescue of injured wild animals in hopes of releasing them back to the comfort of their dens, nests and lairs. And like the other women I mention, their organization’s education programs teach others how to nurture and care for our precious Florida wildlife. These critical life lessons of survival are passed on. As we celebrate Armed Forces Day, Military Child Month and Mother’s Day, we salute the women — military and civilian — who have paved the way for the rest of us not only to survive in today’s world, but thrive. Like our rescued seagull, I hope your “broken wings” heal soon to carry you far. And I share the hope of writer and motivational speaker Maryann Makekau, who recently cautioned her blog followers, “Don’t let your comfort zone become your comfort cage.” — Zandra Wolfgram editor@emeraldcoastmagazine.com

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Photo by Allison Yii

editor’s picks Stand By Your Manatee Save the Manatee Club is an international nonprofit organization co-founded 30 years ago by singer/songwriter Jimmy Buffett. Proceeds benefit the Save the Manatee Club and increase conservation and education efforts for manatees A manatee adoption costs $25. For more information, visit savethemanatee.org. Flocking the Block For a tax-deductible donation to the Emerald Coast Wildlife Refuge (ECWR), you can arrange to have a residence or business “flocked” with dozens of pink garden flamingoes. Proceeds from this “fun”-raiser support the ECWR in its mission of education, conservation and rehabilitation of Florida’s natural fauna. Flocking fees start at $30. For more information, call (850) 650-1880 or visit ecwildliferefuge.com. A Turtle Tale “Do You Know Where Sea Turtles Go?” is a children’s book written by Emerald Coast’s own Paul Lowery. Myrtle the turtle teaches kids about the circle of life of endangered sea turtles in an interesting, fun and educational way. The book includes information on how to adopt a loggerhead sea turtle and track its whereabouts. Buy it at Sundog Books in Seaside. Security Blanket Artist Mercedes Rodgers doesn’t want to cover up the national energy crisis, she wants to put a spotlight on it. So she has created a “security blanket” conceptual art piece made of petroleum-based plastics. The piece will be on display at the 2012 Earth Day Festival and Green Business Expo in New Orleans before coming back home to Full Circle Gallery in Fort Walton Beach. If you would like to participate in the SOS Security Blanket project, you can create a 5-inch or 10-inch square out of a petroleum-based plastic product (think: grocery store bags) and send it to Full Circle Gallery, 29 B Eglin Pkwy. SW, Fort Walton Beach, Florida, 32548.

Manatee Photo By Patrick Rose, Save the Manatee Club ANd Blanket Photo by Katie Grant courtesy Full Circle Gallery

Women and Children First

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com Aprilâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;May 2012

contributors

Scott Holstein Photo g r a ph e r

Lisa McKinney W R I TER

Lisa is a romance writer and parttime marriage and family therapist living in Panama City Beach. In her spare time, she loves hanging out with her two sons, writing and exploring the world with her Navy Captain husband, Brad. ▪ Just in time for Mother’s Day, Lisa explores three amazing motherdaughter business partnerships for our feature “I Kin Relate.”

Maryann Makekau W R I TER

Author, inspirational speaker, researcher and advocate Maryann Makekau’s experience in the mental health field spans more than 20 years. Her writing combines her expertise and compassion to provide practical tools for families coping with cancer, deployments to war and other difficult journeys. ▪ As we honor Armed Forces Day, Memorial Day and Military Child Month, Maryann’s personal essay in The Last Word reminds us to be mindful of all patriots, no matter how little.

Jared Cramblet W R I TER

Currently the public relations and marketing coordinator at BOTE Paddleboards as well as a barkeep at The Funky Blues Shack in Destin, Jared is a recent graduate of the University of West Florida who has called Destin home since 2005. In his spare time, this freelance writer enjoys fishing, live music, disc golf and paddle boarding. ▪ Jared went into Donnie Sundal’s recording studio to dial into his music for our new column, Vibe.

Photo By Larry Davidson (Holstein) And courtesy Bradley McKinney (Lisa McKinney) and Contributors (Maryann Makekau and Jared Cramblet)

Holstein graduated from Gardner-Webb University in N.C. and began his career as assistant to famed National Geographic photographer Joe McNally, working in NYC and other high-profile locations. His portfolio at scottholsteinphoto.com includes work for nationally acclaimed publications such as the New York Times, National Geographic Adventure, Delta Sky and Golf World. An avid outdoorsman from Central Florida, Holstein enjoys getting to know Northwest Florida through his lens on assignments as staff photographer for EC, Tallahassee and 850 magazines. ▪ Scott comes to the rescue with his animated animal photos for our cover story “Going Wild.”

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feedback

Have a thought? Let us know what you think at editor@emeraldcoastmagazine.com, facebook.com/ emeraldcoast or through twitter @emeraldcoastmag.

We have received so much positive feed back from the “Dirty Handed” Culture article in the February/March 2012 issue of EC Magazine. The story highlighted many of the amazing art studios in our area. We are grateful to be a part of such an amazing art community and thankful to EC Magazine for taking notice of our local artists! Thank you,

Steven J. Clark, MD Board Certified Plastic Surgeon

Mercedes Rodgers Full Circle Gallery, fort walton beach

Dear Mr. Rowland, With regards to your article, [“(Not Quite) Up in the Air” October/November 2011], it saddens me to read something like this. If this was just one man’s sampling from one airport, then it even saddens me further to think that this is in every airport. I so hope that this is not the case. The very travelers you mention are able to travel as they do thanks to these brave men and women who themselves and their families sacrifice so much just for this very reason of being able to get on a plane and go wherever. On the other hand, our Constitution guarantees the Freedom of Speech. I guess that gives you the right not to speak as well. These men and women in uniform know we are a grateful nation for what they do. I wore a uniform for nine years as well. If just one kid looked up and saluted me, that one thing would make nine years worthwhile, and did happen many times in my travels. People need to see them and thank them and not think they have heard it before. As it is for all of us, we all count and make a difference. FRANK A. COPSON, JR. TALLAHASSEE Thank you, Frank, for your feedback. I am saddened and worried very much by the overall apathy of the average American. My job is to observe and comment with the hopes just one person will take note and appreciate what many take for granted. Best, BRIAN ROWLAND Publisher

Clarification

WHAT PEOPLE ARE SAYING: Tonia, Fort Walton Beach “Dr Clark and his staff are top notch. Dr Clark called me after my surgery, and his nurse Liz called me the next day. You never hear of this from doctors anymore. The staff at Sacred Heart are wonderful and I felt I was in great hands. I am a raving fan. I will continue to tell everybody how pleased I was.”

Miramar Beach — Bluewater Bay 850-267-4582 | bluewaterplasticsurgery.com

Visit our website

In the February/March 2012 issue, the lovely woman to the left of Pamela Goodwin pictured in Fiddly Bits & Tea (pages 5 and 43) is Toni Runfola Gregory. Our apologies for the oversight. EmeraldCoastMagazine.com April–May 2012

Take a

Left Brain Adventure Just a couple hours to the west is a vibrant, colorful and exciting arts community emerging from the entertainment district located in historic downtown Mobile. Add numerous historic districts with a dazzling array of architectural styles, ancient oak trees and vibrant azaleas, and funky neighborhood pubs and you’ll discover what so many have found – that Mobile is becoming “a hip Southern town with a storied past.”

Adventures, to name a few:

• Lower Dauphin Street Artwalk (LODA) the second Friday of each month • Locally-owned galleries

• Museums and public art centers

• The Saenger Theatre and other performing arts venues

• Independent movie theaters and outdoor film festivals • Eclectic live music scene and nightlife

• Outdoor festivals, events and concerts year-round • ArtsAlive! Annual Festival and other public art gatherings

Nearby Downtown Hotels • The Battle House Hotel (AAA Four Diamond)

• The Riverview Renaissance (AAA Four Diamond) • Hampton Inn

• Candlewood Suites • Holiday Inn

• Admiral Semmes • Adventure Inn

• Berney Fly Bed & Breakfast • Fort Condé Inn

WWW.MOBILEBAY.ORG 800-5-MOBILE

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in the e.c.

Peopl e + St y le + H y p e

Snapshot

A ‘Special’ Soldier

In an area full of heroes, Special Forces Maj. Angel Martinez is one of the newest and most dedicated. He is a member of the U.S. Army’s 7th Special Forces Group (SFG), an elite and highly skilled tactical unit of combat veterans that recently relocated from Fayetteville, N.C., to the Emerald Coast. When asked about his position with the Special Forces Group, 41-year-old Martinez says proudly, “My favorite part of the job is working alongside men of the highest caliber. They’re elite, carefully selected and skilled specialists in their field.” A new resident of the Emerald Coast, Martinez has embraced the transition from North Carolina to the white sandy beaches of Miramar Beach by immersing himself in the coastal lifestyle. “This is a very warm and welcoming community. They’ve accepted the entire 7th SFG family — all 2,700 of us. I love it here,” he says with a warm smile. In his off time, Martinez enjoys sampling local cuisine, playing softball, teaching children’s classes at a local church and entertaining his wife, Vernisse, with his musical talents on the guitar and piano. Martinez is currently deployed to Afghanistan on an eight-month tour. We wish him a safe return. — Lisa McKinney

Photo by Scott Holstein

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chat

Life Lessons

The Healing Journey of Author, Jewelry Designer and Fitness Fanatic Laurie Beck By Zandra Wolfgram

ometimes you have to invent your own miracle.” So says author, jewelry designer and fitness guru Laurie Beck. After being diagnosed with two forms of cancer (non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma and marginal cell leukemia) in 2006, in addition to seeing one of the best oncologists in the country, Beck immersed herself into the vigilant practice of several complementary therapies, from yoga, meditation and Reiki to wearing crystals and using the power of positive thinking. Five years later Beck’s cancer is indolent but could recur anytime. This possibility has strengthened her resolve to stay well mentally, physically and spiritually. To share her hard-won lessons through her cancer journey, Beck has published a meditative book, “Eight Little Lessons of Hope and Healing.” Her intent is to help others tap into the personal healing power she believes we all possess. Though Beck, who is married with three sons, has operated Pilates by the Sea fitness studio in Santa Rosa Beach for seven years, life wasn’t always a walk on the beach for this New York native. A series of hard knocks, a strained relationship with her mother and a proclivity to anxiety were shackles on Beck. It wasn’t until she was faced with an incurable disease that she found the drive to heal her heart and health from the inside out. Beck talked with EC Magazine about her personal path to peace and her future plans. EC: How did you get involved in Eastern therapies? LB: All I read for 25 years were “selfhelp” books. My mother and I had a strained relationship for most of my life. But when I got sick, it was such a shift in our relationship and brought us closer together. She said, “I want you to de-stress your body.” I tried acupuncture every two weeks for a year. I could feel things shifting in my body. Words could not explain it. EC: You practice Reiki. What is it and why do you espouse it? LB: Reiki is a form of energy healing. It calms the body and puts you in that really Zen safe place. I went to my mother’s Reiki master five years ago. I felt all of this energy moving around me. For a half an hour her hands never left the left side of my body, but she did not know my spleen was bulging there. When we were done I felt the heat. I felt so calm. I felt like I was on a drug. EC: You talk about listening being important. How so? LB: Listening is an art. I always moved my body, but I didn’t go deep to find the answers. That’s when I learned

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about being quiet and listening to myself. Now I work on all three things: mind, body and spirit. EC: Do you have a daily routine? LB: When I was sick, I had a serious daily routine of Reiki, acupuncture and drank some serious Chinese medicine. My priorities were reading to get educated and figuring out how to get well. EC: What is your routine now? LB: Now I wake up in the morning and assess my day. I gather my dog and we lie on my Biomat for 45 minutes and practice TM (Transcendental Meditation). I do some form of exercise. I call it T-walking. It’s a time I can be quiet in my head. I pace myself. EC: You have paired a different crystal with each chapter lesson in your book. What is your favorite crystal and why? LB: I love crystal quartz, because it eliminates negative energy. Amethyst is a very powerful, healing crystal. What attracted me to the crystals is the thought or message that you create in your own mind.

EC: Tell us about your memoir, an e-book due out in late spring. LB: It takes you back to my childhood and the time leading up to the progression of how I got sick. When I got my [cancer diagnosis] news. I had to look at everyone I loved and say, “You’ll have to let me do what I need to do.” I shifted my whole way of being. I have an incurable cancer. I’ve been told my cancer never goes away, but I live with peace every day. EC: How do you think you got sick? LB: I had a lot of major anxiety growing up. I never got a break. I never got to feel calm. Your cells react to stress in your body. It’s a matter of your strong cells being able to fight that out. So I learned a lot of tools when I got sick at 42, like Reiki, energy work and learning how to eliminate from the body any negativity. EC: Do you fear a recurrence of your disease? LB: It comes into my head once a day, maybe more, but I honor it and say anything’s possible. That’s when I go to those places and shift my thinking to something positive. EC: How has your health scare changed you? LB: I live with such peace and harmony now. Of course I still worry, but I worry way less. My life is just so much more vibrant. I’m not striving for things that are unnecessary anymore. I use the metaphor of the lotus flower. And I think of that flower that blooms in murky water, and I get to live my life and get to shine in any situation. EC: What is next for you? LB: My true passion is being an equestrian. I taught children to ride horses. I’ve always been geared to be a teacher. So, my next mission is to share my story to help others at a bigger level. ec

Photo by Scott Holstein

Laurie Beck in her 30A studio, Pilates by the Sea, where she says, “Our clients get to go on a calm journey to experience what they need for that moment. It’s all about breathing, moving and connecting.”

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what’s haute

A Toast to All Things Wine

A ‘Corky’ Cool-lution Whining about warm wine? Put a cork in it! The Corkcicle is the cool new wine accessory for wine lovers. Simply freeze the corked cooler and insert it into your bottle of wine and enjoy perfectly chilled vino. $22.99 at Chan’s Wine World.

The Ease of Serving Cheese

Your cheese tray will go from stale to stylish with these erasable ceramic CheeseTiles. Label cheese, dessert trays or the host’s favorite dish. Choose from Fleurdi-Lis, Shell or Vine design among others. Retails for $29.95 for a set of four. Available at the Golden Pear in Gulf Breeze or at placetile.com.

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Perfect Taste

Embellish your wine tasting ensemble with Perfect Pairing, a bold, beaded, one-of-a-kind shoulder bag by Mary Frances. $249, at BoDacious in Grand Boulevard at Sandestin.

An Etch Above the Rest

Rolf Glass is the only line of affordable cut and etched/engraved glass made in North America. The Rolf Glass line includes a wide range of designs, from coastal themes to botanical-inspired styles like Emerald Forest and Icy Pine to creatures such as the Heron group. $39.95 for a set of four wine glasses at Seaside Associated Stores.

Photos By Scott Holstein (Shoulder Bag and Corkcicle) and Courtesy Placetile.com (Ceramic Cheesetiles), Rolf Glass (Rolf Glassware) and Reidel USA (Mamba Decanter)

Riedel Strikes Again

The Mamba decanter, designed by Riedel CEO Maximillian J. Riedel himself, is modeled after the sleek and venomous mamba snake. This striking wine tool double-decants wine quickly, achieving what would take hours in a typical bowl-shaped carafe. $495 at Bed Bath & Beyond, Williams-Sonoma and online at riedelwebstore.com.

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com

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EC MAGAZINE’S

TOP SALON COMPETITION IS BACK FOR 2012

PRESENTING SPONSOR: BLUEWATER PLASTIC SURGERY

LOVE YOUR STYLIST? ADORE YOUR SALON? Nominate your salon to compete for the honor of being named Top Salon of the Emerald Coast! At the Top Salon celebration, 10 salons will be invited to provide a head-to-toe makeover, which will be revealed at the exciting event. The beautiful results will be judged in a runway show. The competition is sure to be fierce, but only one establishment will earn the title of “Top Salon”! Top Salon of the Emerald Coast wins an advertising campaign developed by Rowland Publishing and a year-long ad campaign in EC Magazine. Plus, a portion of the proceeds will benefit the winner’s favorite charity. Your favorite salon can’t win unless you nominate them. Nominations must be received between April 1–May 1. Visit TopSalonEC.com to nominate. For sponsor information, please contact Marjorie Stone at mstone@rowlandpublishing.com. 24 April–May 2012

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PRESENTING SPONSOR:

Fresh ideas, styles and personalized services can all be found on the Emerald Coast, just in time to celebrate mothers, fathers and graduates on their special days.

spring gift guide support american artists shop THE ZOO GALLERY

UGG — Comfort in a Fashionable Heel

Breezy, strappy and understatedly sexy, the Lauri brings island-girl style to a gladiator silhouette. Stunning with a runway-ready, 4 1/2-inch platform wedge, details like jute-braids and plush Poron® footbeds nod to laid-back luxury and the unique feel of UGG®.

Celebrating 34 years in business, The Zoo Gallery is the oldest locally owned business on the Emerald Coast. Since 1979 we have promoted American made products. Shop here for eclectic gifts, accessories, jewelry, art, handcrafted furniture, home décor and clothing. Visit the Miramar Beach, Grayton Beach or Destin outlet store to find works by more than 100 artists.

$140 Available at Sunset Shoes. Sunset Shoes The Marketshops at Sandestin, HarborWalk Village and Destin Commons (850) 837-5466

Soybean Wax Candle, $18 Ceramic Heart, $135 (Original Ceramic Art by Laurie Pollpeter Eskenazi, exclusive to The Zoo Gallery) Bird on Canvas, $28 The Zoo Gallery Grand Boulevard at Sandestin | (850) 837-9233 Grayton Beach | (850) 231-0777

SEASIDE RELIQUARIES

Plumeria Flower Beach Cover-up and Hair Clips

At Del Sol everything changes color in the sun. Our color changing hair clips and cover-ups will wow everyone at the beach. Create fun, joy, memories and smiles for everyone under the sun. Beach cover-ups, $28; Hair clips, $10 Del Sol HarborWalk Village | 34 Harbor Blvd., Suite 154, Destin (850) 650-3400 | delsoldestin.com

These original pieces are handcrafted by Dr. Meow and incorporate Destin’s sugar-white sand, sea glass, starfish, shells and dreams from the local emerald-blue waters. This unique design is available as an ornament or necklace in a variety of sizes. Wear your Seaside Reliquary© ($68–$400) to carry the beauty of the Emerald Coast with you always. Come to Bad Girls Art Gallery to see a beautiful variety of handmade art glass beads and fine art jewelry by Dr. Meow. Bad Girls Art Gallery 183 Eglin Parkway NE, Cinco Bayou | (850) 226-6463 badgirlsartgallery.com

spec ial adve rt isi ng sec t ion EmeraldCoastMagazine.com

April–May 2012 25

personality

Taking the Leap 30A’s Mike Ragsdale Lives to Take on a Challenge

ometimes you just have to take the leap, and build your wings on the way down.” — Kobi Yamada 30A entrepreneur Mike Ragsdale embraces change. The self-described “repeat offender” opportunist and creative promoter relishes a challenge. He has tested himself with geographic, professional and personal changes that would overwhelm the standard resume format. Ragsdale is not one to sit on the sidelines. The 40-something husband and father of four prides himself on acting when he recognizes or envisions a challenge. “It’s like jumping off the high dive,” he says. “The quicker you can make it up the ladder, the better. If your heart tells you to do something, do something to commit. Post it on Facebook. Quit your job. Act on it.” Known locally for successful projects such as Digital Graffitti in Alys Beach, 30A.com, SouthWalton.com and Town Wizard, Ragsdale, his wife Angela and two of his children recently took a significant leap into the unknown when the family packed up and set off for an eight-month trip around the globe. They left South Walton in September 2011, with the goal of experiencing life in other countries. The notion was to eschew

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the more typical tour of tourist hotspots to instead visit lesserknown places in Eastern Europe, the Middle East and Asia. Kids in school, several fledgling businesses and multiple personal commitments did not dissuade Ragsdale from taking on a months-long international jaunt. Two years ago, the family had done something of a test drive with a month-long journey through Cambodia, Myanmar and China. To make the commitment to action, the couple purchased airline tickets, giving themselves a year to figure out the logistics. EC caught up with them in the Czech Republic via Skype, a few days from spending Christmas in Prague and moving on to Turkey. The family’s travel strategy is to settle in for a period of weeks in a centrally located home-away-from-home, then make shorter trips from that base. They travel without being typical tourists, taking in what it is like to actually live day-to-day in a different geography. Schooling for Holly, 12, and Carlton, 15, while on the road was another challenge. “Home schooling was another jump off the high dive,” Ragsdale says. The Ohana Institute in Rosemary Beach was a huge help. All students are encouraged

Photos Courtesy Angela Ragsdale

By Jennifer Howard

OPPOSITE PAGE: Mike Ragsdale rests on a massive stone wall reminiscent of the Great Wall of China that encircles the mountain range around the Nahargarh Fort in Jaipur, India also known as “The Pink City.” LEFT: Ragsdale makes friends with 17th generation hoteliers who turned their family’s 15th century palace into the region’s only hotel in the remote village of Tordi, India. The family proudly toured Ragsdale around the town and region in their jeep, purchased at auction after the Afghan Civil War.

to work at their own pace. The Ragsdale kids use Skype and email to interact with their teachers regularly. “What they see and experience are incorporated into their learning process,” Mike Ragsdale explains. “For example, last week they visited Auschwitz, and it was a living classroom for them.” The round-the-world trip is certainly not Ragsdale’s first jump off the high dive. He spent most of his life in and around Birmingham, Ala., achieving entrepreneurial success in businesses as diverse as online consulting, fitness and the restaurant industry. “My wife and I were always dreaming about doing something radically different,” Ragsdale says. “The kids said, ‘Give it up. You talk but never do anything.’ We decided it was time to wake up, do something or quietly resolve to be happy there.” The Ragsdales drew a latitude line across the U.S. on a map, staying south of Birmingham because they did not want to shiver through life in a colder climate. They considered California, Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi, and quite liked Savannah, Ga. “About that time, a friend who knew we were looking to move told us about his home that was for sale in Santa Rosa Beach,” he says. “We came to look at it, fell in love and in about 60 days we’d moved.” It was September 2006, and the spirited couple absolutely knew they had found their forever home along 30A. “I think there is a certain type of person who is willing to ‘give it all up’ to just be near the water,” Ragsdale says. “My story is absolutely no different.” Ragsdale quickly became something of a local activist, promoting all things 30A. From Digital Graffitti, an unconventional computergenerated outdoor art festival in Alys Beach, among Ragsdale’s earliest 30A endeavors, through the successful development of 30A. com, Sowal.com and beyond, the entrepreneur’s mission has been to effectively communicate the 30A way of life.

Celebrating the unique and authentic sense of place found in South Walton is of paramount importance, he believes. The Internet and its tools are the media for his creative communication. “Much of the 30A audience is out of the area,” he says. “We are keeping people in touch with a place they love. It’s a privilege. I’m just in love with the 30A brand. I am in love with it as a place and with the opportunity that still exists for our area. I’m just excited to be at the table and to be able to help contribute. It’s just an honor.” Ragsdale’s most recent business venture is Town Wizard, a webbased guide that gives users street-level local knowledge and local color. “After 30A took off, people asked if I had thought about taking on other places,” he says. Partnering with Jeff Armstrong of Seagrove Beach, he used the tools developed for 30A to create a universal local guide business plan to provide that all-important authentic sense of place. The business quickly grew as he partnered with Darren Nelson in Destin, and Steve Salzinger and Bhavan Shah in New York. “Many people who visit a place want to know the local flavor, the local sense,” Ragsdale says. “So Town Wizard empowers a true local entrepreneur to help provide that authenticity. It’s almost like a business in a box.” First launched two summers ago, Town Wizard is now in more than 150 different markets around the world, although mostly in the U.S. At the time of our interview, they had just partnered with a large company in The Netherlands, and a Town Wizard rollout in Denmark was under way. Town Wizard goes where government or tax-funded “Twenty years from promotional organizations can’t, now you will be Ragsdale believes. “Yes, we have more disappointed great organizations to promote the by the things that area, but we [Town Wizard] have you didn’t do than great partnerships,” Ragsdale says. by the ones you “They have a job, but we can drill down deeper. They can’t promote did do. So throw an individual business. At the off the bowlines. publishing level, we can really get Sail away from the down and introduce you to those local safe harbor. Catch businesses. You need to have both the trade winds in [kinds of organizations]. I think it’s your sails. Explore. wonderful when we work together.” Dream. Discover.” Although the current worldwide journey feeds Ragsdale’s creative — Mark Twain energy — he thinks of starting a Town (30A.com, 1/1/2012) Wizard project in every spot he visits — the traveler still misses his 30A home. “I miss my boat, my YOLO board, the beach bars,” he says. “With Facebook and Skype, it’s almost shamefully easy to keep in touch with people back there. But I miss the place.” The inevitable question is, what’s next? Ragsdale still has an eye out for a challenge, somewhere in front of him. He remains ready to jump in, with no regrets for what is past, recognizing that the actions he takes today will be tomorrow’s great memories. ec

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well-worded

Celebrating the ‘Glory’ in Us All Patriotism, Compassion and Courage are Themes of Martha LaGuardia-Kotite’s Books, Life

or much of her teen years in Destin, Martha LaGuardia-Kotite was in survival mode. The World’s Luckiest Fishing Village was an idyllic place to grow up, but forging her journey toward the American dream after a devastating family tragedy would take this blonde, brown-eyed dynamo sheer guts and lots of determination. Luck didn’t have much to do with her story. Nor the many heroic and patriotic stories she’d grow to tell as a 46-year-old mother, wife, author and Commander in the United States Coast Guard Reserves. When her brother died her senior year in high school, it was a life-changing event for LaGuardia-Kotite. The lesson of the frailty of life made young LaGauardia-Kotite merciless in the pursuit of what became her single focus — “to make a difference in some way and, hopefully, save lives.” By the looks of her, LaGuardia-Kotite would more likely turn heads with her “girl-next-door” looks than save them. But after a lackluster year in Auburn University’s Navy ROTC program, the Coast Guard Academy called to LaGuardia-Kotite, who saw the opportunity for an appointment as the life preserver she was reaching for. She grabbed on, held tight and has been on quite a “boat ride” ever since. The feisty teen plunged headfirst into a life of change and challenge with zeal. “The Coast Guard Academy taught me to

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be a survivor. The fact that I was honored with an appointment to the academy made me determined to complete whatever I needed to do to get that commission despite how hard and challenging it was.” The national average of active duty women within all branches of military services currently numbers only 14.6 percent. The percentage of aspersions cast by LaGuardia-Kotite’s male peers and their spouses, however, was much higher. Despite the fact that she and her female colleagues were called “bad luck,” and made unwelcome at the Officer’s Wives’ Club, she let most of it roll off her back like the bad waves she learned to sail. For this sailor, being female never meant asking for any special treatment. “My focus was to do my job to the best of my ability and show that even though I am a woman, I can do this,” she says. Some of the brave on-the-job actions of her military brethren that she witnessed inspired LaGuardia-Kotite to write her first book in 2006, “So Others May Live, Coast Guard’s Rescue Swimmers: Saving Lives, Defying Death” (Lion Press). Each chapter chronicles a daring feat told through the eyes of the U.S. Coast Guard’s heroic rescue swimmers. Her first dive into publishing garnered many awards and accolades, including the 2010 Gold Winner for Military Writer’s Society of America, Book of the Year by the Foundation for Coast Guard History and the honor of being selected to the Com“My Name is Old mandant of the Coast Guard’s Glory” includes Professional Reading List. more than 200 The Weather Channel even flag photos including this featured it on the television one of astronaut show “How Weather Changed Buzz Aldrin History.” posing for a photograph While in Washington, D.C., beside the United as a guest speaker for her States flag during a mission first book, LaGuardia-Kotite on Apollo 11 to was biding her time by pagthe moon. ing through a memory book dedicated to military women who died in Afghanistan and Iraq. Before she closed the book, the ideas for her second book began to flow. “I felt there were many Americans who did not know who these women were, and I wanted to celebrate their service,” she says.

Photo by Scott Holstein (Martha LaGuardia-Kotite)

Photos Courtesy NASA (Moon) And Photo by Nick Tomecek courtesy Northwest Florida Daily News

By Zandra Wolfgram

Martha LaGuardiaKotite holding her first book at the Air Force Armament Museum.

She would not only celebrate, but document the lives and service of 17 military women in “Changing the Rules of Engagement, Inspiring Stories of Courage and Leadership from Women in the Military,” due out in May by Potomac Books, Inc. By recounting the lives of these female vanguards, LaGuardia-Kotite tells the untold stories of how these female soldiers, sailors, marines and airmen overcame obstacles from the 1970s to today.

The book spotlights dynamic veterans such as General Ann E. Dunwoody, the U.S. Army’s first female four-star; Lt. Col. Nicole Malachowski, the first female Thunderbird pilot; Pam Melry, one of only three female commanders of a space shuttle; and Maj. Tammy Duckworth, who became a triple amputee in Iraq while piloting a Black Hawk helicopter, but who today still stands tall fighting for veterans’ needs within the Department of Veteran Affairs.

An excerpt from “Changing the Rules of Engagement: Inspiring Stories of Courage and Leadership from Women in the Military” follows with permission from Potomac Books, Inc.: In June of 1991 Pam Melroy attended the Air Force Test Pilot School. “Being a test pilot is like doing experiments with airplanes,” said Melroy. “You think about all the things that might happen.” Edwards Air Force Base was very different from her previous assignments. There were not many women and the C17 contractor test pilots included many Vietnam veterans. Her Squadron Commander, Colonel George London, was African American and familiar with breaking barriers. She wanted to qualify as an air refueler, someone who can successfully hook up and conduct a fuel transfer from the tanker providing fuel to the C17 while in flight. “I didn’t really know that there were basically only three people certified to fly air refueling in the whole unit. Several pilots had tried to get certified and had been refused.” London took her up in a C17. As she pulled up behind the tanker she thought, I used to teach people how to do this, I’m all set. Seconds later, she called “Breakaway, Breakaway, Breakaway!” “Holy cow! On my very first approach I had to call a breakaway. I had probably had that happen three or four times in my entire career,” she said. “I could tell my approach was too hot. I was not in control.” The pressure was on. She was the test pilot in the unit and the woman. She reset her mind and went back in. Four times she practiced it successfully and thought they’ll probably be scared to death to have me do this without supervision. What she didn’t know was that she had done as well as anyone. She found the test pilot job wonderful for the flying but stressful because of the politics and scrutiny. However, it also prepared her for going to NASA in 1995 and becoming one of three women in the history of the Space Shuttle program to pilot the spacecraft.

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Some of the darker stories were not easy to hear, such as the first class (1976-1980) of women to go through a military service academy. “It’s saddening to hear the intensity of their experience, at the same time, it was something that could be celebrated, because despite the bad treatment they received, they were brave enough to become leaders,” LaGuardia-Kotite says. Her third book, “My Name is Old Glory: A Celebration of the Star-Spangled” (Globe Pequot Press), was timed to be published this spring in tandem with the bicentennial of the War of 1812 — during which Howard Schnauber wrote his celebrated poem about the American flag. When LaGuardia-Kotite heard the simple, proud poem read aloud at a military retirement ceremony, she was deeply moved. She thought fellow Americans would appreciate a book that honors the poem and the flag it heralds. Though it took two years to find a publisher for her patriotic piece, the three-time author believes there are readers out there who’ll have a heart for it. “It’s something that unifies all of us no matter what our past, present or future will be,” she says. LaGuardia-Kotite never planned to become an award-winning author, but like the many challenges she has faced, there is a greater purpose for her. “I’m just a storyteller. I do it to celebrate others, because I believe in them.” Selected for promotion to Captain in July, LaGuardia-Kotite is still writing and trying to decide between all of the ideas she has waving in her mind. “I’ve been given a life where I have more to do, and I hope I can continue to make an impact,” she says. And perhaps a new literary challenge: a fiction novel. ec All of the author’s books are sold at amazon.com, barnesandnoble.com and on shelves at The Hidden Lantern in Rosemary Beach, Bayou Book Company in Niceville and Barnes & Noble in Destin. Find her on Facebook at facebook.com/larguardiakotite.

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photo by D. Myles Cullen (United States Air Force) And Thomas E. Franklin (Used with permission. Photo copyright: 2001 The Record, Bergen County, New Jersey)

Pilots deployed to fight the war on terrorism take American flags on missions for family and friends. BELOW: American photographer Thomas E. Franklin’s famous photo depicts firefighters George Johnson, Daniel McWilliams and William Eisengrein raising the American flag at the World Trade Center after the Sept. 11, 2001 terrorist attacks on New York.

well worded scene Here are a few things we’ve heard about on the EC scene … NEW NEWS …

Photos By Allison Yii (Nancy Stanley AND Jon Ervin), Courtesy Northwest Florida State College (Dr. David Goetsch), Children in Crisis, Inc. (Master Sergeant David McKinney And Ken Hair), Coldwell Bankers, Realtors of the Emerald Coast (Debbie Gericke)

▪ Just in time for its 25th anniversary, Beach TV’s app, PCB, is now available in the Apple App Store. Happy Anniversary, Toni Davis and team.

▪ The Board of Trustees of Northwest Florida State College recently honored Dr. David L. Goetsch of Niceville, the college’s vice president for community relations and workforce Dr. Goetsch development, for his 36 years of service. During his distinguished career, Goetsch helped lead the institution in its transition from Okaloosa-Walton Junior College to a state college offering baccalaureate degrees. Since he began at the college in 1976, Goetsch has served as an instructor, professor, department chair, director, dean, provost, vice-president and as a member of the executive team of all three of the college’s presidents. ▪ Construction is underway on the new Heart & Vascular Center at Sacred Heart Hospital on the Emerald Coast. The center is expected to be completed in the spring of 2012 and will be named in honor of Judy and Steve Turner. ▪ The Seaside Neighborhood School (SNS) has kicked off its participation in a nationwide recycling program called the Dream Machine Recycle Rally. The program aims to raise awareness of the importance of recycling among students, grades K–12, and supports disabled U.S. veterans. To reach its goal of collecting 22 million pounds of recycled material by June 2012, the school is asking locals to bring in empty non-alcoholic plastic bottles and aluminum cans. For more information, contact Sally Bailey at (850) 687-9010 or email SNSPupblicRelations@gmail.com or visit Dreammachinerecyclerally.com. CONGRATULATIONS AND KUDOS … ▪ Here’s to the winners of the 25th annual Holiday on the Harbor Destin Boat Parade: Sand Dollar, captained by Josh Hale Lynne Marie, captained by Tommy Graves Swoop II, captained by Matt Wheeler Hannah Marie, captained by Jackie Branch Miami Merger, captained by Greg Buchanan Governor Stone, captained by Dick Gercak “C” Lady, captained by Norm and Carolyn Leonpacher

▪ Legendary Marine was awarded two prestigious boating industry honors during the Marine Dealer Conference & Exposition in Orlando. The accolades include: No.16 boat dealer ranking of all dealers throughout North America, and the “Best in Class” distinction for “Most Improved Dealer” of the Top 100 universe, awarded by Boating Industry magazine. ▪ The Destin Area Chamber of Commerce’s Military Affairs Committee (MAC) honored Ken Hair, executive director of Children In Crisis Inc., with the 2011 Destin Area Retired Military Person of the Year Award.

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Same Day Service! Master Sergeant David McKinney (left) presents the 2011 Retired Military Person of the Year Award to Ken Hair.

▪ The Master’s in Social Work (MSW) program at the University of West Florida (UWF) has earned national accreditation from the Council on Social Work Education. The new accreditation makes UWF one of only 200 universities with a nationally accredited master’s program in social work. ▪ The Emerald Coast Convention Center is among the winners of the 2011 class of Readers’ Choice Awards selected by ConventionSouth magazine. NEW FACES … ▪ Valeria Lento has been named director of communications for Visit Pensacola. ▪ Nancy Stanley joins Cottage Rental Agency Seaside, Florida as its director of public relations and marketing. ▪ The South Walton Tourist Development Council (TDC) welcomes Jon Ervin as director of marketing and communications. ▪ Coldwell Banker United, Realtors has promoted Debbie Gericke to director of operations for the Gulf Coast region. ec

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happenings Events + Culture + Causes

spotlight

A Glass Act

Unlike glass artist Mary Hong, the art form she works in is fragile and, according to her, people are afraid of it. Hong, who owns Wired Glass Studio in Destin, admits to dabbling in many art mediums. And though she creates everything from paintings, nightlights and jewelry all from glass, her current passion marries her fascination with glass with her intrigue of found objects on the Emerald Coast. The result is dynamic, glass-encrusted mosaics that turn surfboards and paddle boards into stunning art storyboards. Having lived in Hawaii for 14 years, the coastal theme is a natural for Hong, who moved to Destin in 2004. So is being an artist. “I have been an artist since I was two,” she says. “I’ve gotten to make art every day.” Hong credits her sense of color to her interior design degree and her ease of composition to her graphic design talent. A lifelong traveler, Hong says it was a trip to Athens, Greece, that fired up her passion for glass art. A serendipitous stroll into a bead shop captivated her imagination, and lessons from a master bead artist helped seal her fate. “I love glass. It’s shiny, sparkly and ever changing with the light,” she says. Art shows have given Hong welcome visibility. Her first show was the Destin Festival of the Arts, where she was honored with the People’s Choice Award in 2011. At press time, she was planning to apply to the 24th annual ArtsQuest, Fine Arts & Music Festival in Seaside slated for May 11–13. “You get to talk to the people who buy your art and get feedback,” she says. “The camaraderie with fellow artists is wonderful.” It’s crystal clear that Hong is one shining example of the thriving art scene on the Emerald Coast. — Zandra Wolfgram

Photo by Scott Holstein

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com April–May 2012

vibe

In the Studio with

Donnie Sundal The Destin-based singer, musician, producer and songwriter discusses his most recent projects By Jared Cramblet | Photo by Scott Holstein

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Donnie Sundal pictured in his latest venture — Neptone Recording Studio — a swank, full-service music studio giving voice to local, regional and national artists.

he career of Donnie Sundal is as eclectic as the countless songs he’s written, performed and produced. The affable piano and keyboard player opened his recording studio to EC Magazine to hit the high notes of his lasting and varied music career. Tall, with an angled face framed by straw-colored hair, Sundal began studying at the Berklee College of Music in Boston and has continued building his impressive portfolio ever since. After finishing his studies at Berklee, he and his wife, Jennifer, and their three daughters settled in Destin, their family’s home for nearly 18 years now. During that time, Sundal — who is as easy going as he is hard working — worked to refine his craft, making him a well-known musician, singer, producer and songwriter — and Emerald Coast music scene fixture. Throughout the 41-year-old musician’s career he has served as producer for multiple acts, toured the country, performed hundreds of shows and collaborated

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com April–May 2012

vibe 2011

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with several musicians. With influences such as Genesis, Jeff Buckley, Bob Marley, Radiohead and Bjork, it’s easy to see how his career path mirrors his diverse taste in music. Although his musical interests and tastes cover a wide spectrum, this gregarious musical virtuoso has recently been concentrating most of his efforts on his band, Boukou Groove, and his new business venture, Neptone Recording Studio. Boukou (pronounced boo-coo) Groove began in late 2010 when Sundal and New Orleans-based musician Derwin “Big D” Perkins decided to team up after playing together at random times throughout their careers. “Big D is from New Orleans and after Katrina hit, he relocated to Chicago,” says Sundal. “Upon returning to the South, we got together and decided to create a fulltime project.” As Boukou Groove, the duo began playing their musical gumbo of jazz, funk and blues throughout the Southeast several times a week. They also began writing, recording and producing a record. “Between the studio and this kind of chemistry we had, we decided to make a record together,” says Sundal. “Not only are we working together producing the Boukou Groove record, but we also decided that it would be fun to start producing music for others as well. It will be nice to show people the Boukou record as an example of both.” At press time, a spring 2012 release date was planned. “We’re excited about the number of guests we have joining us on the record,” says Sundal. “A lot of the musicians we’ve had the opportunity to work with at Neptone will be making an appearance on the record.” In addition to Boukou Groove, the Neptone studio is another huge recipient of Sundal’s time, effort and musical expertise. For years, Sundal maintained a home recording studio where he produced several projects. During a recording session there, Sundal realized he needed some equipment upgrades. Rather than investing more resources into a home studio, Sundal and his wife teamed up with friends Mike and Gail Kent to begin a new venture now known as Neptone Recording Studio. “We needed some new mics, and rather than using our money for that, we chose to open a studio,” says Jennifer Sundal. In 2006, Neptone — a high-end, spacious studio outfitted with the latest technology — began to function as a full-service studio where artists could record, overdub, mix and produce their music. While recording and producing for several local acts was the

new studio’s initial function, Sundal and his partners knew they had more to offer. Not only could they provide local artists with a state-of the-art recording studio, but they could also utilize the appeal and beauty of the Emerald Coast to attract artists from throughout the region. “The whole point was to turn Neptone into a destination studio,” says Sundal. “A lot of artists in Nashville know about Destin and love to come visit. Here, the artists can work and have a relaxing vacation at the same time.” Neptone’s reach goes far beyond offering just a recording studio on the beach. Networking within the community, they offer artists several other services such as beach homes, fishing trips, water sports and dining. “A lot of time, artists want to get out of Nashville and make this part of their vacation,” says Sundal. “We want people to call and utilize our studio because they know in their off-time they can be out fishing or enjoying a nice meal at Stinky’s The Top 5 Favorite Songs (Fish Camp).” Over the Produced by past six years Donnie Sundal Neptone has continued to Dread Clampitt — grow, receiving “Cold White Dixie Day” endorsements Zach Deputy — from major “My Lovely” m u s i c a l Junior Marvin and equipment Boukou Groove — manufacturers “Travelin’ Like a Gypsy” and recording Alaqua — “Let Me and producing Come Home” for acts that Duke Bardwell — include Dread “It’s Real” Clampitt, Junior Marvin of The Wailers, and Heritage- and Grammy-winning artist Sam Bush. Most recently, Steve Fishell and his Music Producers Institute (MPI) found out about the work that Sundal and his crew at Neptone had been accomplishing and held a workshop at the studio. MPI teamed up with Neptone and Sam Bush and offered seats to prospective MPI students. The workshop allowed 10 guests the opportunity to sit in on a three-day studio session. The MPI event was a huge success with every seat filled. Plans for another MPI event at Neptone are already in the works. With the forthcoming Boukou Groove album, several acts scheduled to record at Neptone and a full-time tour schedule, the future appears to be just as active, engaging and promising for Sundal as the career path that led him to the present. ec

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thecalendar april + may

+ events

Central Records Celebrates National Record Day April 21 Founded in 2007, Record Store Day is the one day that all of the independently owned record stores come together with artists to celebrate the art of music. Special vinyl and CD releases and various promotional products are made exclusively for the day, and hundreds of artists in the United States and in various countries across the globe make special appearances and performances. FREE. 89 Central Square, Seaside, day-long festivities begin at 9 a.m. (850) 231-5669, centralsquarerecords.com.

Due to popular demand, Central Records has recently been remodeled to better accommodate live performances such as this one by the Jerad Reynolds Band.

+ events

An Evening at the Movies with Sinfonia at Alys Beach

May 27 Gather at Alys Beach Amphitheater with your family to enjoy your favorite patriotic melodies, movie soundtracks, light classics and the music of Elvis in a free community performance featuring Sinfonia Gulf Coast, our region’s only fully professional symphony orchestra. The concert begins at 7:30 p.m. and promises a big finish with a spectacular fireworks finale over Alys Beach. For more information, call (850) 269-7129 or visit sinfoniagulfcoast.org.

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Central Records and Alys Beach photo by Shelly Swanger Photography

Compiled by Zandra Wolfgram For more events in the EC, visit emeraldcoastmagazine.com.

Tuesdays through May 29

+ events

USTA Tallahassee Tennis Challenger Through April 7 Watch the likes of tennis greats Joe Wilfred Tsonga, Marty Fish and John Isner battle it out on the court at the 13th annual USTA Tallahassee Tennis Challenger at the Forest Meadow’s Tennis Complex from March 31 through April 7. Tickets to individual events throughout the week are $5 to $20, and a weeklong pass is $50. Children under the age of 10 can attend for free. Proceeds from the event benefit a variety of charities including the Sharon Ewing Breast Cancer Wing at Tallahassee Memorial Hospital, and the Maria Yeadhall Challenger Tennis Fund, named in honor of the tournament’s retired chairwoman, which works with the Tallahassee Friends of Our Parks Foundation to improve the city’s tennis facilities. For more information, visit tallahasseechallenger.com.

Through April 14

Masque: A Recycle Show Masques often hide surprises; the hidden treat of this show is that all the art masques are made from recycled materials. FREE. Art Center, 17 First St., S.E., Fort Walton Beach. Gallery hours: Tues–Fri, noon–4 p.m.; Sat, 1–4 p.m. (850) 244-1271, artsdesignsociety.org

Mondays–Fridays through April 30

Art by Sharon Clark View portraits in charcoal and pastel, landscapes in pastel and oils, and a series of doors and windows of the world in oils. FREE. Coastal Branch Library, 437 Greenway Trail, Santa Rosa Beach. Mon, 9 a.m.–8 p.m.; Tues– Fri, 9 a.m.–8 p.m. (850) 267-2809, artsbyclark.com

Tuesdays through May 29

Bands on the Beach Attend this popular summer evening concert series with local musical favorites playing at Gulfside Pavilion. FREE. Casino Beach on Pensacola Beach. 5:30 p.m. (850) 932-2257, visitpensacolabeach.com.

Nike Run Club Forget jogging as usual. Hit the pavement with Nike Run Club and get ready to rock your run. From first-timers to first-placers, hook up with fellow fanatics and push your running edge. Enjoy access to weekly meet-and-runs, in-store product demos and trials, post-run socials and coaching clinics. FREE. Gather at Nike Factory Stores at Silver Sands Factory Stores, 10562 Emerald Coast Pkwy., Destin. 6–7 p.m. (850) 654-9771, silversandsoutlet.com

Wednesdays through May 30

Wednesday Night Concert Series Tantalize your musical taste buds with musicians entertaining Sandestin homeowners, as well as locals and resort guests. FREE. Village Green, The Village of Baytowne Wharf at Sandestin, 9300 Emerald Coast Pkwy. West, Miramar Beach. 7–9 p.m. (850) 267-8117, baytownewharf.com

Thursdays through Aug. 9

Seaside REP presents ‘River Rat and Cat’ From the day fastidious River Rat hauled a drowning sodden Cat from a sinking basket (thinking Cat was some unique collectible), all of the river creatures have been dismayed by the camaraderie of this unlikely duo. This Keystone Kop-style comedy invites all kids and their kin. FREE. Alys Beach Amphitheater. 6:30 p.m.

Fridays through May 25

The Downtown Art Walk Make a date on the third Friday of the month to stroll Fort Walton Beach’s historic district and visit with merchants from participating shops and restaurants while enjoying art demonstrations, live music, complimentary beverages and hors d’oeuvres at many locations as well as special discounts. FREE. Downtown Fort Walton Beach. 5:30–8:30 p.m. For more information, call Tara Wesley at (850) 226-7763.

+ events

Annika and Friends at Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort May 12-13 Hall of Fame golfer Annika Sorenstam, along with her celebrity friends and famous athletes, will join in an eventful weekend filled with golf, social events and fine dining. The event opens with a cocktail reception on Saturday at 6 p.m. featuring ANNIKA wines followed by a celebrity-studded dinner. A Mother’s Day breakfast is set for Sunday at 9 a.m. followed by a golf clinic and celebrity pro-am tournament at the Raven Golf Club. The event closes with a charity concert by country music performer Darius Rucker, formerly of Hootie and the Blowfish, on Sunday at 7 p.m. on the North Park lawn at the beautiful Grand Boulevard at Sandestin. Concert tickets are $54.76 and available for purchase at annikaandfriends. com. Access to weekend events other than the concert is available with a sponsorship donation. Packages begin at $1,000. Proceeds benefit the ANNIKA Foundation to fund the implementation of SPARK — a physical education program targeted to elementary schools. For a complete schedule of events and event sponsorship information, call Monark Events at (850) 728-9476, email info@monarkevents.com or visit annikafoundation.org. EmeraldCoastMagazine.com April–May 2012

thecalendar April 1

Northwest Florida Ballet’s ‘Romeo & Juliet’ The touching story of Shakespeare’s starcrossed lovers will draw you in with its intimate moments of lyrical beauty and the actionpacked encounters of the feuding Montagues and Capulets. Beautifully staged with rich period costumes and sets, choreography by Todd Eric Allen and the powerful sounds of Prokofiev’s famous music, “Romeo and Juliet” is an experience you won’t want to miss. Adults $25, children 12 and under $12.50. Mattie Kelly Arts Center at Northwest Florida State College, 100 College Blvd., Niceville. Sat 7:30 p.m. Sun 2:30 p.m. (850) 664-7787, nfballet.org

April 3

Couponing Class “Start Saving Now” with Kari Cassidy of Get Coupons USA. The presentation is part of the library’s First Tuesday Lectures series, which covers various topics of interest to locals. FREE. Robert L. F. Sikes Public Library, 1445 Commerce Drive, Crestview. 10 a.m. reception with program to follow at 10:30 a.m. (850) 682-4432, friendsofcrestviewlibrary@ yahoo.com

April 3

Sinfonia Gala Event with Big Band Pink Martini Back by popular demand, iconic big band Pink Martini returns to the Sinfonia stage for an encore performance. Their half-Gershwin, half-Ellington-meets-Ricky Ricardo will have you dancing in your seats. Accompanied by Sinfonia’s full orchestra, this is a must-seeand-hear event. Gala table seating is available. $42.50–$125. Emerald Coast Conference Center, Okaloosa Island. 7:30 p.m. (850) 269-7129, sinfoniagulfcoast.org

April 7

Family Pottery Bring your family and make pottery together. Work on the wheel or hand build a pot. Each person gets to create one piece of pottery. Join another class to glaze your piece, or for a firing fee, they will glaze your piece for you. $20 each for two or more people. Full Circle Gallery, 29B Eglin Pkwy., Fort Walton Beach, 10:30 a.m.–5:30 p.m. (850) 362-8041, fullcirclegalleryfwb.com

April 7

Easter Explosion Skip, hop or jump your way to The Village of Baytowne Wharf for an explosion of fun and enjoy visits with the Easter Bunny, kid’s crafts, an inflatable fun zone, a stilt walker making balloon animals and face painting. FREE. The Village of Baytowne Wharf at Sandestin, 9300 Emerald Coast Pkwy. West, Miramar Beach. Noon–3 p.m. (850) 267-8117, sandestin.com/events

April 8

Visit with Easter Bunny Hop down to HarborWalk Village for free face painting and crafts, and pictures with the Easter Bunny on the Village Stage courtesy of HD Action Photography. FREE admission. Minimal fee for photos and some activities. HarborWalk Village, 10 Harbor Blvd., Destin. 2–4 p.m. (850) 424-0600, emeraldgrande.com 40 April–May 2012

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com

April 12

Collecting Art The Pensacola Museum of Art presents a PMA Lecture Series, taught by local and regional art historians and guest lecturers. This month, a panel of local, regional and national fine art collectors will discuss their personal perspectives on collecting. FREE. Museum Assembly Room, 407 S. Jefferson St., Pensacola. 6–7 p.m. RSVP to (850) 432.6247, pensacolamuseumofart.org

April 13-15

Friends of the Crestview Library Book Sale Purchase gently used books and line the library coffers. FREE for library friends; $2 for those who aren’t friends yet. Robert L. F. Sikes Public Library, 1445 Commerce Drive, Crestview. Fri 5–8 p.m., Sat–Sun 9 a.m.–4p.m. (850) 6824432, friendsofcrestviewlibrary@yahoo.com

April 14–15

Reggae Festival Enjoy a weekend of live reggae music at Seville Quarter. $10. 130 East Government Street, downtown Pensacola. Call for event times. (850) 434-6211, sevillequarter.com

April 14–16

Pensacola JazzFest Pensacola’s historic Seville Square hosts an event filled with great jazz performed by local and national talents. FREE. Seville Square in downtown Pensacola. All day. (850) 433-8382, jazzpensacola.com

April 14–16

Crawfish Festival on Portofino Boardwalk Spend the weekend on the boardwalk with live music and spicy crawfish. FREE. 400 Quietwater Beach Road, Pensacola Beach. Call for times. (850) 932-1500, pensacolabeachchamber.com

April 15

Madrigals and Belle Voci Spring Concerts Immerse yourself in the refreshing sounds of classic vocals in a concert which features a repertoire ranging from the Renaissance madrigal to contemporary gospel spiritual and vocal jazz. FREE (donations welcome). Mattie Kelly Arts Center at Northwest Florida State College, Tyler Recital Hall, 100 College Blvd., Niceville. 3 p.m. (850) 729-5382

April 17–May 11

April 19

Silver Sands Charity Fashion Show Discover the hottest spring fashion trends while supporting local charities at this fashionable event at Saks Fifth Avenue OFF 5TH. Be treated like a celebrity and enjoy front row VIP seating for a donation of $20 to the charity of your choice. Shoppers can also present receipts from purchases made between April 19–22 to Shopper Services and Silver Sands will donate a percentage of sales to the participating charities. FREE. Silver Sands Factory Stores, 10562 Emerald Coast Pkwy., Destin. 5:30– 7 p.m., (850) 654-9771, silversandsoutlet.com

April 19–21

White Sands Music Festival Enjoy food, arts and crafts and nonstop jam sessions in the Farmers’ Opry House. Threeday pass $50, single-day pass $20. 8897 Byrom Campbell Road, Pace. 1 p.m. (850) 994-6000, farmersopry.com

April 20

Fine Arts Honors Recital A showcase of the best Northwest Florida State College student performances of the semester. FREE. Mattie Kelly Arts Center, Tyler Recital Hall, Mattie Kelly Arts Center, 100 College Blvd., Niceville. 3 p.m. (850) 729-5382, mattiekellyartscenter.org

April 20–21

Dance Facets 2012 The stellar dance students at Northwest Florida State College present their annual dance concert featuring the students’ original works and choreography, from classical ballet to contemporary and modern. $15 for adults, $10 for ages 18 and younger. FREE for enrolled students with ID. Mattie Kelly Arts Center, 100 College Blvd., Niceville. 7:30 p.m. (850) 729-6000, mattiekellyartscenter.org

April 20–22

Musical Echoes A Native American flute, art and cultural event honoring Northwest Florida’s rich heritage. Now in its 12th year, the festival has earned a reputation as the premier Native American flute festival in the country. This year’s theme celebrates the American Bison. FREE. The Landing, 139 Brooks St., Fort Walton Beach. Opening ceremony is Fri at noon., Sat 10 a.m.–8:30 p.m., Sun 10 a.m.–4 p.m. (850) 243-4405, musicalechoes.org

Flower Power Art Show As a spring theme, all art on display showcases flowers in various forms and media. FREE. Art Center, 17 First St., S.E., Fort Walton Beach. Opening reception, Friday, Apr. 20, 5–7 p.m. Gallery hours: Tues–Fri, noon–4 p.m.; Sat, 1–4 p.m. (850) 244-1271, artsdesignsociety.org

April 21

April 18–22

April 21

Seabreeze Jazz Festival Extraordinary artists such as George Benson are participating in a weekend-long entertainment event filled with jazz and soothing music. $80. Pier Park South Pier Park Drive. Gates open Thur and Fri at 5:15 p.m. and Sat and Sun at 11 a.m. (850) 267-3279, seabreezejazzfestival.net

Mullet Man Triathlon Push yourself to the limit on this scenic and exhilarating course. Individual $55, team (2–3 athletes.) $130. 17401 Perdido Key Drive, Perdido Key. 6 a.m. (850) 429-0611, florabama.com Sacred Heart Hospital on the Emerald Coast’s Second Annual Children’s Health Fair Area families are invited to take advantage of free pediatric health screenings, such as hearing, vision and BMI. Kids will enjoy face painting and the AirHeart Regional Air Ambulance, while parents will have

socialstudies

Andi and Ryan Mahoney and Susan Shaw

Denim & Diamonds Ball January 27, 2012. For the 13th year, locals put on their blue jeans and headed to the Emerald Coast Convention Center to enjoy an evening of dinner and dancing in support of United Way and its 39 partner agencies. Photos by Tracy Mulligan

Janna and Steve Morrison

Rick and Sam Seevers

Lisa and Bernard Johnson

Saundra and Chris Daggs

Yvonne Freeman and Jessica Jarosz

Jessa Mathis and Maureen Meehan

Terri Baker, Vicki Story and Anna Garland

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com Aprilâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;May 2012

thecalendar an opportunity to talk to the hospital’s healthcare providers and representatives for community agencies. FREE. North Park lawn in Grand Boulevard at Sandestin, Miramar Beach. 10 a.m.–1 p.m. (850) 654-5929

painting, kite making, sidewalk murals, inflatables, jewelry making, demonstrations from local artisans, kids’ karaoke contest and more! FREE. HarborWalk Village, 10 Harbor Blvd., Destin. Noon. (850) 424-0600, emeraldgrande.com

April 21

April 23

Fire and Earth 2012 Coastal Pottery Expo Award-winning potters and ceramic artists will display, sell and share their work to the public on the museum grounds throughout the day. FREE. Heritage Park and Cultural Center, Fort Walton Beach. 10 a.m.–4 p.m. on the grounds of the Heritage Park and Cultural Center. 139 Miracle Strip Pkwy. S.E. Fort Walton Beach. (850) 833-9595

April 21

Sgraffito Workshop Learn the ancient etching style of sgraffito where clay slips are layered onto forms and intricate designs carved, resulting in pieces of amazing artwork with contrasting colors. Fee includes a piece of pottery, already thrown and ready for your personal touch. $85 per person. Full Circle Gallery, 29B Eglin Pkwy., Fort Walton Beach. 10:30 a.m.–5:30 p.m. (850) 362-8041, fullcirclegalleryfwb.com

April 21–22

Kid’s Fest at HarborWalk Village The Destin Harbor’s largest outdoor festival just for kids! Hands-on activities, face painting, fish

11th Annual Sacred Heart Charity Golf Classic If you’ve been trying to find a way to assist your community, then tee up! Support the new Sacred Heart Cancer Center and future cancer services expansions on the Emerald Coast. This year, local golf pros will compete against one another while also playing with the registered foursomes. Entry fees are $1,250 per person or $5,000 for a foursome. Burnt Pine Golf Club at Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort. 10 a.m. (850) 278-3700, sacredheartemerald.org

April 24

Friends of the Library Open Mic Poetry Reading Hear poetry recitations with friends and family. FREE. Robert L. F. Sikes Public Library, 1445 Commerce Drive, Crestview. 6-8 p.m. (850) 682-4432, friendsofcrestviewlibrary@yahoo.com

April 25 and May 23

JobsPlus Mobile One-Stop at Silver Sands Need assistance with your resume or job search? Visit the JobsPlus Mobile One-Stop at Silver Sands Factory Stores. JobsPlus team

members will be available to critique resumes, provide tips concerning dress and appearance and conduct comprehensive job searches for potential employment opportunities. FREE. Silver Sands Factory Stores, 10562 Emerald Coast Pkwy., Destin. 10 a.m.–2 p.m. (850) 654-9771, silversandsoutlet.com

April 25

Shop for a Job at Silver Sands Come “Shop for a Job” at Silver Sands Shopper Services and speak to store representatives regarding available positions. Complete a profile sheet that is accepted by all tenants with open positions. Complimentary copies of the profile sheet, a list of job opportunities and benefit information will be distributed. FREE. Silver Sands Factory Stores, 10562 Emerald Coast Pkwy., Destin. 10 a.m.–2 p.m. (850) 654-9771, silversandsoutlet.com

April 26

Write the Ultimate Business Plan The Small Business Development Center will teach you how to gather data, write a business plan and understand financing requirements. Each attendee will receive a copy of Ultimate Business Planner Software. $99. Northwest Florida State College–University of West Florida Campus, 1170 Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., Room 156, Fort Walton Beach. 1–4 p.m. (850) 833-9400, sbdc.uwf.edu

BOW WOW MEOW PET COMPANY caters to the dog and cat aﬁcionados. We provide a selection of healthy and organic food as well as pet gear for both dogs and cats. In addition to our product line, we have two private self-washing rooms for your loving dog.

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42 April–May 2012

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com

• 850-534-0009

socialstudies

Kay Phelan and John Russell

Suzy Spence, Wanda Duke, Ron Green and Mary Frances Proctor

Steve Barber, Lauren Gall and Tammy Barber

Cattle Barons’ Branding Party January 19, 2012. Generous sponsors gathered at Seagar’s Prime Steaks and Seafood to proclaim a stampede on cancer at this fundraising event for the American Cancer Society. Photos by Rhonda Chaloupka

Pat and Laura Roesch, Therese VanGogh and Woofy Ramone

Meagan O’Halloran and Erica Rakow

Erica and Ryan Manthey and Avis Glenister

Celebration Hall Open House January 12, 2012. Tim and Alice Pauls graciously unveiled their new event facility in Santa Rosa Beach and introduced their new management team at a regal reception catered by Townsend Catering. Photos by Rhonda Chaloupka

Pamala Watkins, Cecilia Jones and Diana Ferrell

Mark Pauls, Jeffrey Brewer and Carol Pauls

Ainsley Rogers and Jessica Proffitt EmeraldCoastMagazine.com April–May 2012

thecalendar April 26–29

Sandestin Wine Festival Calling all wine lovers to the 26th annual Sandestin Wine Festival’s white tents, flowing wine, gourmet food and live music. Tickets are $70 per person and $130 for a two-day pass. The Village of Baytowne Wharf at Sandestin, 9300 Emerald Coast Pkwy. West, Miramar Beach. Sat: Retail Wine Tent 10 a.m.–6 p.m. and Grand Wine Tasting 1–5 p.m; Sun: Retail Wine Tent 10 a.m.–6 p.m. and Grand Wine Tasting 1–5 p.m. (866) 91-BEACH, sandestinwinefestival.com

April 27–29

28th Annual Interstate Mullet Toss Perdido Key’s Flora-Bama Lounge hosts this wacky annual tournament that has participants compete in tossing an actual mullet across state lines. $15. 17401 Perdido Key Drive, Perdido Key. 9 a.m. (850) 492-0611, florabama.com

April 27–29

7th Annual Destin Charity Wine Auction Weekend A weekend of wine events to benefit local children’s charities. Friday attend Patron Dinners

Southern

Get ready for a sweet

hosted by nationally recognized chefs paired with world-class celebrity vintners held at local restaurants and private homes. Saturday, the Reserve Tasting and Auction showcases distinctive wines from internationally acclaimed vintners paired with fine cuisine. Enjoy live music and a silent auction that culminates with a high-energy live auction of rare and distinctive wines, destination trips, art and one-of-a-kind items. Patron packages from $2,500. Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort Linkside Center, 9300 Emerald Coast Pkwy West, Miramar Beach. Sat auction event begins at 1 p.m. Call for patron dinner schedule. (850) 650-2985, dcwaf.org

April 27

experience.

Jazz Festival — Middle and High School Bands Northwest Florida State College presents a Middle School/High School Jazz Clinic featuring several student jazz bands as well as the Northwest Florida State College Jazz Ensemble. FREE. Staged in the outdoor Amphitheater of the Mattie Kelly Arts Center, 100 College Blvd., Niceville. 5 p.m. (850) 729-5382

April 28

Southern

Pensacola Museum of Art Children’s Spring Art Workshops Saturday workshops for children ages 5 to 13 inspire creativity by exploring the elements of art and the principles of design. Art supplies included. $10 per session for members; $15 per session for non-members. 407 S. Jefferson St., Pensacola. Patterns and Textures is from 12:30– 2:30 p.m.; Printmaking is 3–5 p.m. To register for workshops and classes, contact Raven McBride at (850) 432-6247. pensacolamuseumofart.org

April 28

‘Haydn Goes Hawaiian’ Put away your “concert attire” and put on your most colorful tropical shirt to help officially kick off the summer. It’s Hawaiian shirt night as the Northwest Florida Symphony Orchestra (NFSO) spotlights the Father of the Symphony — Franz Josef Haydn and two of his most famous pupils, Mozart and Beethoven. Tickets are $22.50 each for adults, $16 for active duty military (fourticket military discount limit), $16 for youth ages 18 and younger. NWFSC students may receive one free ticket per student ID. Mattie Kelly Arts Center, 100 College Blvd., Niceville. (850) 729-6000, mattiekellyartscenter.org

April 28–29 VACATION RENTALS . REAL ESTATE SALES RESIDENTIAL LEASING . ASSOCIATION MANAGEMENT

6th Annual Goombay Gulf Coast Feel the rhythm of some of the best regional and international reggae, calypso, steel drum bands and Caribbean music around, plus stiltwalkers, African dance and drum presentations and other activities. FREE. Historic Belmo -Devilliers Neighborhood, Pensacola. 10 a.m. (850) 380-6109, goombaygulfcoast.com

April 29

Ready. Set.... GoSouthern.com 44 April–May 2012

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com

Northwest Florida Symphony Youth Orchestra Concert Enjoy a concert by a full orchestra comprised of more than 50 talented musicians in grades 4 to 12 from Okaloosa, Walton and Santa Rosa counties. The group is conducted by Liz Aylor. Donations appreciated. Mattie Kelly Arts Center, 100 College Blvd., Niceville. 3 p.m. (850) 729-5382

April 30

Jazz Ensemble Spring Concert The concert will include a great lineup of jazz favorites performed by Northwest Florida State College students. FREE. Mattie Kelly Arts Center, 100 College Blvd., Niceville. 7:30 p.m. (850) 729-5382

Daily through May 31

ADSO Window Art Display The artwork of artist Larry Griffin will be on display in the studio windows of the Art Center, fronting First Street in Fort Walton Beach. Drive by and stop to see these works. FREE. Art Center, 17 First St., S.E., Fort Walton Beach. (850) 244-1271, artsdesignsociety.org

Thursdays through May 31

16th Annual Concerts in the Park Join Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation for its popular nine-week outdoor concert series featuring jazz, country, R&B, Motown, beach and your favorite dance music every Thursday evening in May. Opening night will feature a Neil Diamond Tribute Show. Bring your favorite picnic and beverage or purchase dinner onsite. Children’s playground onsite. $8 per person or $15 per couple, MKAF members and kids under 12 FREE. 4323 Commons Drive West, Destin (behind Grace Lutheran Church & Destin YMCA). 7–9 p.m. (850) 650-2226

Every Saturday May 5–26

Palafox Market and Gallery Night Fresh produce, live plants, baked goods and artwork are just a few of the items offered by vendors at Palafox Market. FREE. Palafox Market, Downtown Pensacola, between Chase and Wright Streets. The market is open every Saturday, rain or shine, from 8 a.m.–2 p.m. Gallery open house follows beginning May 18 at 5 p.m. (850) 434-5371, palafoxmarket.com

May 1

Soundsations Show Choir — Season Finale Concert Northwest Florida State College’s talented group of fine and performing arts scholarship students performs a lively variety show of song and dance. $15 adults, $10 ages 18 and younger. NWFSC students may obtain one free admission per ID. Mattie Kelly Arts Center, 100 College Blvd, Niceville. 7:30 p.m. (850) 729-6000, mattiekellyartscenter.org

May 1–25

Art by Janis Hannon An exhibition of oil and acrylic canvases, soft pastels, painted glass and porcelain, and jewelry by Janis Hannon of Freeport. FREE. Coastal Branch Library, 437 Greenway Trail, Santa Rosa Beach. In the South Walton Government-Education Complex off Hwy 331. Gallery hours: Mon 9 a.m.–8 p.m., Tues–Fri 9 a.m.–8 p.m. (850) 267-2809. Email artist at janhannon@hotmail.com for commission or pricing information.

May 4–6

28th Annual Pensacola Crawfish Festival Head downtown and treat yourself to spicy crawfish and authentic bayou country entertainment along the waterfront at one of the largest crawfish boils in Florida. $5 adults, children under 12 free. Seville Square, downtown Pensacola. All day. (850) 433-6512, fiestaoffiveflags.org

May 5

Cinco de Mayo Celebration Cantina Laredo Gourmet Mexican Food restaurant presents its annual May 5 festivities at a family-friendly event at Grand Park in Grand Boulevard, adjacent to Cantina Laredo’s restaurant. Enjoy authentic live Latin music, dancing and contests. Kids will enjoy special appearances by Dora the Explorer, face painting and more. FREE. Grand Park and Cantina Laredo in Grand Boulevard at Sandestin, Miramar Beach. 2–11 p.m. (850) 654-5929, grandboulevard.com

May 5

Cinco de Mayo Spring Fest A vibrant celebration of Latin music, food, dance and more! Kids will enjoy free activities and crafts. FREE. HarborWalk Village, 10 Harbor Blvd., Destin. 2 p.m. (850) 424-0600, emeraldgrande.com

May 6–June 8

20th Annual Southeast Regional Juried Fine Arts Exhibition The Arts and Design Society of Fort Walton Beach, Inc., presents this competitive regional show that attracts top artists throughout the Southeastern United States. In addition to Best of Show, the juror chooses first, second and third place winners and several honorable mentions. FREE. Mattie Kelly Arts Center Galleries, 100 College Blvd. Niceville. Gallery hours: Mon–Fri 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Opening reception and awards ceremony is May 6, 2–4 p.m. (850) 729-5382

May 10

‘Young Frankenstein’ A national touring company performs Mel Brooks’ monster comedy about the bright young Dr. Frankenstein as he attempts to complete his grandfather’s masterwork and bring a corpse to life. $45. Mattie Kelly Arts Center, 100 College Blvd., Niceville. 7:30 p.m. (850) 729-6000, mattiekellyartscenter.org

May 10–13

ArtsQuest Fine Arts Festival Meet more than 100 artists from around the country and ask them about their paintings, poster art, sculpture, pottery, mixed media, jewelry, paper and fabric art and more. Enjoy great food, live entertainment, fun children’s activities and student art exhibits — all in picturesque Seaside. FREE. Downtown Seaside. Preview: Thur, 6–9 p.m. Hibiscus Café, Tasting: Fri, 5–7 p.m. Ruskin Place, Festival: Fri 4–7 p.m.; Sat 11 a.m.–7 p.m.; Sun 11 a.m.–5 p.m. (850) 622-5970, culturalartsassocation.org

May 11

HarborWalk Marina 16th Annual Destin Cobia Tournament Awards Ceremony Winning boat captains will receive their awards for the Destin Cobia Tournament. Enjoy cocktails and dinner at Harry T’s for the celebration. FREE admission. Menu pricing. HarborWalk Village, 10 Harbor Blvd., Destin. 6:30 p.m. (850) 424-0600, emeraldgrande.com

May 11–12

Relay For Life of South Walton Gather your team of five to 10 people for an overnight event designed to celebrate cancer survivors, remember those who have lost their battle and raise funds to fight this horrible disease. $100 per team. North Park in Grand Boulevard at Sandestin, Miramar Beach. Opening ceremonies begin at 6 p.m. Closing ceremonies

+ events

Little Black Dress Party May 19 The White-Wilson Center for Women’s Imaging is hosting a party celebrating this fashion classic to raise awareness on the importance of preventive healthcare for women. There will be music and dancing, a live auction, fashion show and yummy food. Prior to the event White-Wilson will be giving away 10 total women’s health packages. Women can register to win free health screenings, a gym membership, little black dress and other goodies at fwblittleblackdressparty.com. The give-away is running through April 15. The winners will be announced at the event on May 19 at the Emerald Coast Convention Center at 6 p.m. Tickets are $60 and proceeds benefit local charities. Call (850) 863-8204 or visit fwblittleblackdressparty.com for details.

May 3

Starting a Business Hear the experts at the Small Business Development Center on how to successfully launch a new business. $35. Northwest Florida State College-University of West Florida Campus, 1170 Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., Room 126, Fort Walton Beach. 1–4 p.m. (850) 833-9400, sbdc.uwf.edu EmeraldCoastMagazine.com April–May 2012

thecalendar at 10 a.m. Saturday morning. (850) 654-5929, relayforlife.org/southwaltonfl

May 12

Junior Orchestra Spring Concert The Junior Orchestra of Northwest Florida State College is an ensemble of young string students in grades 4 to 8 who play violin, viola, cello or string bass. Donations welcome. Mattie Kelly Arts Center, Tyler Recital Hall, 100 College Blvd., Niceville. 11 a.m. (850) 729-5382

May 12

Mother’s Day Concert Celebration Take Mom out to enjoy live entertainment, shopping and a day on the scenic Destin Harbor. FREE. HarborWalk Village, 10 Harbor Blvd., Destin. 7 p.m. (850) 424-0600

May 12

5th Annual Family Fun Arts Fest Okaloosa Arts Alliance partners with Friends of the Emerald Coast State Parks to present a day of family fun including performances by local arts groups, activities, arts and crafts, vendor booths, a silent auction and more. FREE. Henderson Beach State Park, 17000 Emerald Coast Pkwy, Destin; 10 a.m.–5 p.m. (850) 499-8335, okaloosaarts.org

May 12

Princess & Pirate Ball The Princess and Pirate Ball is a family-friendly

gala event to benefit Shelter House. Your entire family is invited to wear their best princess and pirate costumes for an evening of dinner, dancing, treasure hunts and character pictures. A children’s costume contest will be held with the grand prize of a ride in the Billy Bowlegs parade in June. $99 per family of four; $40 per adult; $20 per child. There will be an additional $10 charge for tickets purchased at the door. 5–8 p.m. at Linkside Sandestin, 9300 Emerald Coast Pkwy; Destin. (850) 243-1201, shelterhousenwfl.org

May 13

Darius Rucker in Concert A charity concert by country music performer Darius Rucker, formerly of Hootie and the Blowfish. Tickets from $54.76. North Park lawn Grand Boulevard at Sandestin. 7 p.m. Purchase tickets at annikaandfriends.com. Proceeds benefit the ANNIKA Foundation and SPARK — a physical education program targeted to elementary schools. annikaandfriends.com

May 15 and 22

Make a Sushi Tray Set During this class you will make a two-to fourpiece sushi tray set. Using basic slab-building and texture techniques you will create a set to enjoy for years to come. $55 per person. Full Circle Gallery, 29B Eglin Pkwy, Fort Walton Beach.10:30 a.m.–5:30 p.m. (850) 362-8041, fullcirclegalleryfwb.com

May 15–June 8

Let the Music Play Arts and Design Society presents a show in which all artwork will have music as its theme; the interpretations in various media should be ... harmonious. FREE. Art Center, 17 First St., S.E., Fort Walton Beach. Opening reception, Friday, May 17, 5 p.m.–7 p.m. Gallery hours: Tues–Fri, noon–4 p.m.; Sat, 1–4 p.m. (850) 244-1271, artsdesignsociety.org

May 18

Downtown Pensacola Gallery Night An evening of art and entertainment in Downtown Pensacola showcases the work and talents of between 30 to 50 local artists in a number of downtown venues. FREE. Downtown Pensacola. 5 p.m. (850) 434-5371, downtownpensacola.com

May 18–20

Sandestin Beach Bicycle Tour Cyclists of all levels are welcome to this scenic bike ride through the Emerald Coast including a rest stop in charming Seaside. The event includes post-ride activities and mechanical support. $50 per person. Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort, 9300 Highway 98 West, Miramar Beach. Fri: Registration 4–7 p.m. at Robin’s Bikes and Fitness; Sat: 30- and 60-mile rides start at 8 a.m. (pretour instructions at 7:30 a.m., post-ride activities 10 a.m.–3 p.m.); Sun: 15 mile ride start at 8 a.m. (pre-tour instructions at 7:30 a.m.). (850) 267-6168, sandestinbicycletour.com

THE ART OF SWIMWEAR

Finding the perfect swimsuit is easy once you ﬁnd the perfect store. You receive personalized service to solve all of your ﬁgure problems. We carry over 10,000 swimsuits representing over 50 of the most famous brands. Come to Sporty Lady for the FIT, return for the service. INDIVIDUAL SOLUTIONS Mix & Match Separates Tops AA - G | Bottoms 4 - 20 Juniors XS - DD | Plus Sizes 16W - 32W Missy 4 - 20 | Plus Sizes to 32W Long Torso & Bra-sized | Mastectomy Girls & Pre-Teen 2011

2011

BEST BEACHWEAR RETAILER

BEST LOCALLY OWNED RETAILER

SPORTY LADY

Shoppes at Paradise Key (West of Destin Commons/Next to Publix) (850) 837-6763 | www.sportylady.com 46 April–May 2012

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May 19

Pensacola Museum of Art Children’s Saturday Art Workshop Inspiring Saturday workshops for children ages 5 to 13 explore the elements of art and the principles of design. Art supplies included. $10 per session for members, $15 for non-members. 407 S. Jefferson St., Pensacola. American Seascapes is from 12:30 p.m.–2:30 p.m.; Dip, Drip, Splatter is 3–5 p.m. To register, call Raven McBride at (850) 432-6247. pensacolamuseumofart.org

2011

May 21–Aug. 13

Seaside REP presents ‘Beanie and the Bamboozling Book Machine’ Beanie Boren, a science wiz who is not keen on reading, has designed a book reading machine for the science fair. Unfortunately, the machine is neither user friendly nor bug free. FREE. Seaside Amphitheater. 6:30 p.m.

May 25–July 8

Event Thirteen: A Solo Exhibition by Allen Moore A reflective collection of brand new junkyard art by Alan Moore. FREE. Full Circle Gallery, 29B Eglin Pkwy., Fort Walton Beach. 10:30 a.m.– 5:30 p.m. Opening reception May 25, 6–9 p.m. (850) 362-8041, fullcirclegalleryfwb.com

May 26–28, 2012

Memorial Day Weekend Festivities Kick off your summer at Sandestin for Memorial Day weekend with live music, children’s activities and festive fireworks. On Monday, the Village will host a Memorial Day program right before sunset, presented by Sandestin veterans, including a special brass band performance by the Northwest Florida Symphony Orchestra. FREE. Nightly bands on the Events Plaza stage 7–9 p.m., Sun: Children’s activities will be featured in the Events Plaza 6–9 p.m., Fireworks finale at 9:15 p.m. The Village of Baytowne Wharf at Sandestin, 9300 Emerald Coast Pkwy. West, Miramar Beach. (850) 267-8117, sandestin.com/events

May 28

Gate to Gate Run/Walk Eglin Air Force Base’s 4.4-mile Gate to Gate Run/Walk draws participants from around the country. A 1-mile kids’ fun run, door prizes, refreshments and post-race party with live entertainment are all included in the event. $20–$25 advance. Eglin Air Force Base West Gate. 7:30 a.m. start for the run/walk, 9:30 a.m. start for kids’ fun run. Park at Oak Hill Elementary School. (850) 882-8561, active.com

May 29–Aug. 10

Seaside REP presents ‘The Emperor’s New Clothes’ A tale by Hans Christian Andersen about two weavers who promise an Emperor a new suit of clothes that is invisible to those unfit for their positions, stupid or incompetent. FREE. Rosemary Beach Amphitheater. 6:30 p.m.

Save the Date May 31

Billy Bowlegs Torchlight Parade Calling all pirates to the 57th annual Billy Bowlegs Festival Torchlight Parade down Eglin Parkway in Fort Walton Beach. Join the town folk and Capt. Billy Bowlegs LVII and his krewe as they vie for the crowd’s attention with floats, beads, trinkets and plenty of shenanigans. The parade will be followed by live entertainment at the waterfront Landing Park, and the festival will continue through Friday and Saturday, June 1 and 2. FREE. Eglin Parkway, Fort Walton Beach. 7 p.m. (850) 244-8191, billbowlegspiratefestival.com ec EmeraldCoastMagazine.com April–May 2012

socialstudies

Christina Clauson, Donna Shephard, Mikkeline Hicks, Jessica Proffitt and Erin O’Leary

The Mikkeline Maria Pearl Couture Trunk Show February 11, 2012. This Danish jewelry designer descended on Today’s Boutique in Destin and made the timeless romance of pearls look absolutely effortless for everyone who attended. Photo by Patti Burcham Lauren Reinlie and April Poklemba

Kyle Ogle, Erin Shoults, Kevin Ogle, Jean Melvin and Hannah Shoults

Destin History & Fishing Museum Gumbo Contest January 21, 2012. Area restaurants and local individuals gather at the Destin Community Center to compete for the coveted title of Best Gumbo on the Panhandle. Photos by Rhonda Chaloupka

Tasting of Champions

Marie McKenna and Pam Affholder

January 27, 2012. The Destin Charity Wine Auction welcomed guests to Sandestin’s Magnolia Ballroom to sip more than 600 wines and savor culinary creations to raise funds and awareness for local children’s charities. Photos by Tracy Mulligan Erin O’Leary, Jamie Cooper, Frank Sandro, Jessica Proffitt and Lauren Magli

David Burrough, Lauren Magli and Dane McFarlin

Catherine Michas and Amy Vest

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Judy Sutherland and Linda Leiwig

Marvin Kerly, Hannah Hunsicker and Brooke Gontarek

Franklin County Events CROOKED RIVER LIGHTHOUSE FULL MOON CLIMB April 6

Crooked River Lighthouse, Carrabelle Beach Climb the historic lighthouse during the full moon, enjoy activities and Movies at the Park.

CAPE ST. GEORGE LIGHTHOUSE FULL MOON CLIMB April 6

Cape St. George Lighthouse, St. George Island Watch the sun set and the full moon rise from the top of the Cape St. George Lighthouse.

NASHVILLE DIXIELAND JAZZ April 22

Lafayette Park, Apalachicola, Bring a chair and enjoy a popular concert performed outdoors in Lafayette Park. Part of the Ilse Newell Concert Series.

SECOND SATURDAYS April 14

Downtown Apalachicola Merchants open late, exhibits, activities

APALACHICOLA ANTIQUE & CLASSIC BOAT SHOW April 20–21

Downtown Apalachicola Boat displays, demonstrations and featuring the 1877 Governor Stone

FLORIDA PANHANDLE LIGHTHOUSE CHALLENGE April 21–22

Alligator Point, Carrabelle & Dog Island, St. George Island Visit historic lighthouses along the coast from St. Marks west to Pensacola.

CARRABELLE RIVERFRONT FESTIVAL April 28–29

Carrabelle Enjoy arts and crafts, family-friendly attractions and local culinary treats.

FORGOTTEN COAST PLEIN AIR INVITATIONAL May 3–13

Franklin and Gulf Counties Acclaimed artists gather to capture the Forgotten Coast on canvas.

HISTORIC APALACHICOLA HOME & GARDEN TOUR May 4–5

Featuring century-old homes in historic Apalachicola

CROOKED RIVER LIGHTHOUSE FULL MOON CLIMB May 5

Crooked River Lighthouse, Carrabelle Beach Climb the historic lighthouse during the full moon, enjoy activities and Movies at the Park.

CAPE ST. GEORGE LIGHTHOUSE FULL MOON CLIMB May 6

Cape St. George Lighthouse, St. George Island Watch the sun set and the full moon rise from the top of the Cape St. George Lighthouse. For complete calendar of events, visit saltyflorida.com.

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The Blue Giraffe Debbie Taylor and Christi Sheffield Ava’s Attic Courtney Hood and Susan Henry 3 Dogs and a Chick and Cupcakes by the Beach Nicole & Vanessa Poch

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kin

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relate These mother-daughter duos grew into business success stories

By Lisa McKinney | Photography By Scott Holstein

There is no family dynamic more complex than the one that exists between a mother and her daughter — an emotional blend of equal parts rebelliousness and devotion, respect and regret. Now imagine going into business together. Does the idea sound like a nightmare — or the chance of a lifetime? Can mothers and daughters really work well together? Placing two family members in business together might seem like one way to set the stage for explosive results. But in fact, when today’s new generation of moms and daughters join entrepreneurial forces, both have the chance to win and make a good living. Historically, bringing the kids into a family business usually meant grooming a son to take over, but the steady rise of women in the work force has progressively changed things. Mothers and daughters are jumping on the small business train and reaping personal, as well as financial, rewards. In an unsteady and often unpredictable economy, it’s wonderful to watch a small company succeed but more so when it’s kept all in the family. These three mother-daughter teams attest to how feminine ambition and tenacity can be a profitable partnership.

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Both inside and outside of the their cheery shop, Christi Sheffield (left) and Debbie Taylor (right) live their motto: “No drama, be happy.”

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Funky Meets Classy Set on the picturesque 30A, The Blue Giraffe is a charming boutique run by a mother-daughter pair that possesses a combination of feminine wisdom and Southern class. This unique shop offers a good example of exactly how a successful business should run. Christi Sheffield, 41, and her mother, Debbie Taylor, 58, agree that the store is a success because their personalities and work habits are complementary. Born out of a mutual love of books and art, the two women bought an existing art boutique in 2010 and expanded it to include books by local authors, a wide variety of jewelry and textural art, including paintings, home décor and inspirational curios. A particular strength of their small business is their ability to respond quickly to changing economic conditions. Taylor believes that part of their success is due to knowing their customers personally, as well as their ability to meet local and tourist desires for funky decor. “We fell in love with this shop and wanted to keep the heart and soul of the business when we bought it,” Taylor says. “We surround ourselves with ‘beachy’ art that is happy, feel-good and colorful,” Sheffield adds. “It’s a very happy place to work.” When asked about how they maintain a professional relationship

in a swirl of personal family dynamics, Taylor says, “We never argue. We had a great relationship before, but now it’s even better. We even schedule time to talk business.” Clearly the division of labor is part of the key to this harmonious relationship and upbeat attitude. “Christi deals with the day-today business, the artists and the bookkeeping. She also handles the inventory aspect. I handle the budgeting, marketing and financial end,” Taylor explains. Both agree there is no way they could or would want to keep separate their personal and professional roles. This twosome believes that their greatest asset is the fact that they are best friends. The Blue Giraffe currently shows the work of approximately 38 artists and designers utilizing a unique mixture of mediums. With an eye for growth, the pair hopes to break into the wedding market, offer art classes, incorporate an artist-of-theweek feature and utilize the on-line potential by offering art through their website. “We have so much to offer, and we’ve only just started,” Sheffield says. “Business is up 12 percent from last year, and I think we can do more retail magic,” Taylor adds. This business is an endeavor of the heart mixed with old-fashioned common business sense and class.

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April–May 2012 53

Old Treasures with a New Twist Working together for this effervescent mother-daughter partnership is “second nature.” Susan Henry, 54, and Courtney Hood, 27, opened the doors to Ava’s Attic, a consignment shop, in 2009. They grew steadily from 1,400 square feet of space into a 12,000 square-foot section of a strip mall where the business currently resides. They haven’t had time to let the dust settle, and they’re already planning to keep growing. This pair has the experience to run a successful business since the Henry family has owned and operated one business or another for more than 35 years. What better way to learn the ropes than in the security of your own family? Now Hood and Henry are the next family members to forge ahead on their own in the business world. This cheerful team turned a few storage units of extra furniture into a successful and thriving consignment shop. The store is literally packed with thousands of highend, name brand items from furniture to shoes and everything in between. “I didn’t want to do it, but mom made me write a business plan,” Hood jokes. “I just wanted to start selling stuff.” “Like every good mother-daughter relationship, I tell her what to do and she does what she wants. That’s why we’re successful,” Henry says with a laugh. She believes a huge part of their relationship is that they have opposite personalities and at the same time share

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traits that make working together a treat. Hood agrees. “Courtney is the fashionista and works on the clothing and accessories side. I’m more of a jeans-and-T-shirt kind of girl so I stick to the furniture side. We get to work together but have our own sides of the business to run,” Henry explains. “Courtney is very organized and task oriented. She does the books and paperwork. I’m the chatty one so I get to do the fun stuff. I can talk to anyone,” Henry adds. They both agree they have discovered a very nice balance in their relationship that equates to a large profitable business. “December was a record month,” Hood says with a smile. “Usually, that’s a slow month for us.” This is truly a family affair. Brother Brett Henry and dad, Tommy Henry, do lots of the heavy lifting and moving for the ambitious women who rule the consignment shop. It’s not even uncommon to see a few dogs and a grandchild roaming in and out of the rows of endless items. With understanding that the economy is precarious, Ava’s Attic donates unsold inventory to Caring and Sharing, which donates to families in need. This thriving business plans to go beyond consignments and clothing. They intend to start their own line of furniture, clothing and accessories in an effort to keep Ava’s Attic growing strong. All the hard work this extremely friendly pair has put in is definitely paying off.

After 17 years as small business owners, the only thing Susan Henry (left) and Courtney Hood (right) do not “haggle” over is who loves running a family business together more.

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Whether baking bones for dogs at 3 Dogs and a Chick or cupcakes for kids at Cupcakes by the Beach, Nicole Poch (left) and Vanessa Poch (right) have figured out the secret ingredients to a successful mother-daughter business.

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Treats and Sweets Local business owners Nicole and Vanessa Poch have their own ideas about what defines a family business. While this mother-daughter twosome doesn’t share a business, Cupcakes by the Beach and 3 Dogs and a Chick operate next door to each other, offering tasty treats for both humans and their four-legged canine friends. In 2004, Nicole Poch, 32, began baking doggie treats in her home and selling them in local farmer’s markets while working as a second grade teacher. When customers were “begging” for more dog treats, she collared her courage and started her business. “I have a passion for both dogs and baking, so this was the perfect marriage of my interests,” Poch says. Through hard work and the support of her family, the teacher-turned-baker expanded from a work area in her home to a 5,000 square foot space. Even though her responsibilities have changed from teaching children to pampering pets, she still finds the time to make all the dog cookies by hand. Nicole’s mom, Vanessa Poch, has always been sweet on the idea of running her own business. In 2010, she made the jump to small business owner when she opened Cupcakes by the Beach. She came up with the idea after noticing that Fort Walton Beach didn’t offer the latest culinary craze — a cupcakery. “Baking has always been something I enjoyed, but the cupcake design and creations we produce are what

I really enjoy most,” the cupcake baker said. Her specialties include cupcake concoctions such as Pink Champagne, Milk and Cookies and Chocolate Overload. Becoming the girl-business next door made perfect sense. “People bring their dogs to the park for a walk along the water, then come into our shop for doggie treats and pop next door for a cupcake. Dogs are welcome to shop in our store at all times and are welcome to sit in mom’s courtyard while their humans enjoy their cupcakes. It’s just a fantastic arrangement,” says Nicole. These two women may not share the responsibilities of one business, but they often find themselves helping each other out or sharing employees. It’s not unusual to find Nicole frosting cupcakes or Vanessa helping out in the dog bakery. Mom and daughter share daily struggles and triumphs and love working together to come up with creative ideas on treats for both shops. Family businesses have their fair share of conflict and drama, but the biggest advantage they have is implicit trust that each is working to do their best for continued success. Open and honest communication, a good sense of humor and unending love seem to be the cornerstones for these successful teams. For these entrepreneurial mothers and daughters, finding the perfect business partner meant looking close to home and identifying the talents and passions each possessed. Here’s to cashing in on girl power. ec

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April–May 2012 57

Going

Wild is O n l y N atu r a l

Rescue organizations work around the clock to nurture Northwest Florida’s nature

By Zandra Wolfgram | photos by Scott Holstein

orthwest Florida is the sixth most bio-diverse area in the United States. And because nearly 40 percent of the Emerald Coast is natural green space, preserved state parks and wetlands, wildlife is abundant. Finding teeming sea life, including loggerhead sea turtles and bottlenose dolphin, in the warm waters of the expansive Gulf of Mexico goes without saying. But also calling Northwest Florida home are the land-loving bobcat, black bear and gray fox as well as high-flying American eagles and red-tailed hawks. This area of Florida wouldn’t be known as paradise without them. In this issue, we are spotlighting three of the region’s non-profit organizations whose dedicated staff and tireless volunteers answer to the call of the wild and come to the rescue of our injured animal friends 24-hours a day, seven days a week. Their mission is to promote peaceful coexistence. Their instinct to care for animals comes, well … naturally.

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Vuk, a red fox, was found orphaned and raised by untrained individuals and was severely imprinted. They turned him over to Emerald Coast Wildlife Rescue after he became too large to live in their home. He is not releasable back into the wild, so now serves as one of the ECWR's Animal Ambassadors.

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Emerald Coast Wildlife Rescue

The only organization in Northwest Florida that rescues, rehabilitates and then releases indigenous animals, including dolphin and sea turtles, is the Emerald Coast Wildlife Rescue (ECWR), which was founded by Destin resident George Gray in 1994. Over the last 18 years, the rescue has grown exponentially. While under the leadership of Director Amanda Wilkerson the past 12 years, ECWR relocated into a larger facility and became more accessible to the public while enhancing the quality of care. In 2012, ECWR hopes to move yet again to an even larger space to better care for the 3,000 animals it rescues each year. “You name it and I do it,” says Wilkerson. But the operations, education, marketing and public relations will have to wait. Today, her priority clients are a hawk, opossum, tortoise and duck. Not to mention a declawed bobcat named Sampson, who has free reign of the offices. The sad thing is, most animals end up here as a direct result of human negligence. “Seventy percent of all animals admitted to us (because of) direct human impact due to a car, fishing line, human contact,” Wilkerson explains. “That is the value of rehabilitation. It’s so important for us as humans to be able to put back some of the animals taken out of the environment due to our own negligence.” Because not all of us are smart as the red and gray foxes the rescue cares for, its mission includes an extensive education outreach program. Headed by Susan Leville, a certified teacher, a variety of classroom programs are offered to Okaloosa and Walton county students as well as businesses and community groups. Often an owl, raptor or fox give a whole new meaning to “teacher’s pet,” acting as animal ambassadors to provide hands-on learning experiences. Perhaps the life lessons being taught are taking hold. Though the BP Oil Spill in 2010 injured scores of local seabirds and sea life, Wilkerson is surprisingly upbeat about the uptick in animal rescues. “I think it’s due to either folks being more of aware of us due to the exposure we got as an official first responder during the spill, or because people are more aware of the animals and are taking more notice of them,” she says. “I always want to look for a bright side when we’re getting more animals in. It’s never a good day to be busy here.” Because the ECWR deals with wildlife, Wilkerson, a zoologist, said people think it contracts with the city, county or state government to perform these services. It doesn’t. Instead, as a nonprofit, it depends on grants, donations and fundraisers to operate. Over the years, Wilkerson has streamlined and improved the overall operation. “When I first started, we did the best we could,” she says. “Today, we are a full-scale wildlife hospital and every one of our patients is top tier. Whether it needs x-rays, surgery or medicine, it gets the very best care. That is one of the things I’m so proud of.” Another point of pride for Wilkerson is making one particular school on the Emerald Coast a “real zoo.” Wilkerson and Leville have teamed to launch the Emerald Coast Wildlife Refuge Academy of Zoological Sciences, an Okaloosa County charter school for sixth and seventh grade slated to open in the fall of 2012. “As far as we know, this school is first of its kind in Florida and perhaps the East Coast to incorporate core ciriculum with a zoological focus, wildlife

Clockwise From Top: In Florida, the gopher tortoise is listed as threatened. Both the tortoise and its burrow are protected under state law. Gopher tortoises must be relocated before any land clearing or development takes place, and property owners must obtain permits from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission before capturing and relocating them. The gopher pictured was rescued after being hit by a car and is recovering from an injury to its shell; This great horned owl was rescued after being hit by car. He recovered from neurological damage and was released; These raccoons were all received as babies either due to being orphaned or habitat destruction. They are pictured here one week before their release. The most important sense for the raccoon is its sense of touch. They are able to identify objects before touching them with vibrissae, or whiskers located above their sharp, non-retractable claws.

Rescue 101 • Place the animal in a secure cardboard box with small holes placed in the side or lid. Line it with paper towels or a soft cloth The box should be just big enough for the animal to stand and turn around to prevent the animal from thrashing around and hurting itself. • Keep the box in a warm, quiet, dark place, away from family pets and children. • If the animal is injured or cold, put a heating pad on low setting and place under half of the box. • Try to get an animal help as soon as possible. Some birds need to eat every half hour. If you cannot get an animal help within two hours, call your local rescue organization or your vet, who will contact the proper organization for you. • Don’t handle the animal. The more you look at or handle it, the more you stress the animal and reduce its chance of survival. • Don’t give any animal anything to eat or drink, especially cow’s milk. Baby birds can’t digest milk or milk products. Many baby mammals are lactose intolerant and may develop fatal diarrhea. • Don’t handle raccoons, skunks, fox or bats without protection. If you get bitten or scratched (possibly exposed to rabies), you may need to get rabies shots. In addition, the animal will be euthanized in order to be tested for rabies. Source: Emerald Coast Wildlife Rescue

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How Can You Help? Do not litter/ Recycle instead Make a donation Participate in a fundraiser Provide food or supplies Become a member Volunteer your time Attend an education program Adopt an animal ambassador

Emerald Coast Wildlife Rescue 100 Santa Rosa Beach Blvd., Fort Walton Beach Call ECWR at (850) 650-1880 to rescue a wild animal.

Wildlife Sanctuary of Northwest Florida 105 North “S” St., Pensacola Before you drop off an animal, call the Sanctuary at (850) 433-9453. The Wildlife Sanctuary is open for viewing noon– 3:30 p.m., Wed–Sat.

Florida’s Gulfarium 1010 Miracle Strip Pkwy., Fort Walton Beach Call the park at (850) 243-9046 if you find a marine animal in need of rescue.

Other organizations you should know: Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, myfwc.com South Walton Turtle Watch, southwaltonturtlewatch.org Coastal Conservation Association, joincaa.org The Nature Conservancy, nature.org

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rehabilitation program and wild animals,” she says. The school will take 25 students in each grade level and expand one grade each year until it offers classes through 12th grade. Wilkerson, who majored in both political and animal science, is in her element at ECWR. “I love the Wildlife Refuge. It is who I am. I’m so thankful every day when I’m able to release an animal. Whether it is a simple gray squirrel or a cool Masked Booby, there is nothing like that feeling of being able to give back … and let them live their natural life,” she says. Well, maybe all but Sampson.

The Wildlife Sanctuary of Northwest Florida

There are exceptions to rules, which is great news for a girl named Pilgrim. After some bad luck, severe injuries landed the American bald eagle in the hospital at the Wildlife Sanctuary of Northwest Florida. As federal and state permits dictate, she had six months to either be released back into the wild, put down or transferred to another facility. But thanks to a permit extension, she flew the coop after 11 months. And, unlike most visits with relatives, her surrogate family at Wildlife Sanctuary was happy to see her go. “She was tired of us. She never ever got docile. She was fighting us tooth and nail. And it was so nice to let her go and be wild again,” recalls Dorothy Kaufman, director of the Wildlife Sanctuary. That was 2004 and Pilgrim’s flight to freedom was just another good day at the office for Kaufman, who has worked at the Wildlife Sanctuary for 17 years. Before and since, Kaufman along with a handful of staff and nearly 50 volunteers have worked around the clock to care for injured or orphaned indigenous wildlife. As in Pilgrim’s case, release is the ultimate success story. In fact, the Wildlife Sanctuary is only one of nine Florida facilities permitted to do eagle rehabilitation. But when a full recovery isn’t possible, the Wildlife Sanctuary, which celebrates its 30th anniversary in 2012, becomes a happy home for animals that cannot be released. Currently there are more than 100 deer and fox, as well as a variety of birds, including eagles, owls and hawks, with nests and dens in this Pensacola wildlife haven. And the cool thing is, from noon until 3:30 p.m. Wednesdays through Saturdays, humans are welcome to visit! If you have at least 15 animal lovers grouped together you can enjoy a guided tour for just $3 each. Housing 100 wild animals may seem like a lot, but for an organization that rescues upwards of 4,000 animals a year, it’s quite low. This is due to the fact that the Sanctuary’s release rate is high. Of all taken into the Sanctuary, 68 percent are released back into

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com

Clockwise from top: Winnie and Apollo are two of several American bald eagles who hold court at the Wildlife Sanctuary of Northwest Florida in Pensacola; Flying squirrels are not capable of powered flight like birds or bats. Instead, they glide between trees up to 295 feet; Social and gregarious, brown pelicans weigh only 8 to 10 pounds but can have a wingspan up to 7 1/2 feet. They have extremely keen eyesight. As they fly over the ocean, sometimes at heights of 60 to 70 feet, they can spot a school of small fish or even a single fish.

the wild. The meticulous care and long hours required is just a walk in the (preserved) park for Kaufman, who can’t imagine doing anything else. “It’s really fun. A doorbell rings and you don’t know if it’s a pelagic bird from the Galapagos, a baby armadillo or little creature the size of a quarter,” Kaufman says. “You just have to be prepared. We’re expecting a bobcat tomorrow, so we have to get our ducks in a row, so to speak.” At the Wildlife Sanctuary all creatures count when it comes to care. “If someone takes the time to bring in a frog that got hit with a weed eater. Why in the world would you tell them you’re too busy to do it? The fact is it’s showing nurturing and caring of animals,” Kaufman says, pausing only to add, “I mean, how hard is it to put Neosporin on the back of a frog?” Kaufman is the first to say weed eaters have their place — in the garage. Along with all of the other temptations humans unknowingly lure

Florida fauna with. Unless you want to become the next Matt Damon–Scarlett Johansson zoo duo, Kaufman suggests you roll up the welcome mat with some backyard basics. “Their main goal is food, shelter and water. If you’ve taken a tree down, you’ve taken their shelter; if you’re leaving dog food, then all the animals are habituated to know it’s there. The same with a catfish pond; you just put a big bowl in front of them,” she says. “(It’s) like putting a big container of chocolate on my desk. If you don’t want me to eat it, don’t put it there,” she advises. Though it’s easy to develop attachments and play favorites with the endearing animals, Kaufman cautions, less is more. In fact, if a bond is formed it can be life threatening to a wild animal. Though nearly 20 years on the job, Kaufman admits there is still a lot to learn. “When you get to release a red-tailed hawk or a yellow-billed cuckoo that you’ve been really working hard with and weren’t sure they were going to make it, it’s definitely the payment for all of the hard work.” In addition to animal care for numerous species and breeds, she has learned that giving care also means letting go. To do that, she has formed an informal network with other rehabilitation facilities throughout the state. “You always want similar species together, so they can bond with each other and not with you. If I get a single bobcat baby, I need to give it up to another facility that has one. You work out a system. I’ll take the otters this year, and they’ll take them the next. Otherwise it’s being very selfish,” she explains. For Kaufman, getting a little wild is only natural. “No matter what kind of a day I’ve had, it’s still a good day. Working with animals and making a difference … it’s a privilege and it’s really fun. It’s the best thing I’ve ever done. Life is too short to do something you don’t get enjoyment from,” she counsels. EmeraldCoastMagazine.com April–May 2012

Florida’s Gulfarium

Things are going swimmingly at Florida’s Gulfarium in Fort Walton Beach. New leadership, a renovated facility and a refreshed brand image are just the beginning of the changes in store for one of the oldest marine parks in the world. Nearly the only thing that is not being flipped around is the attraction’s core mission: marine life conservation. Patrick Berry, the new general manager, is quick to credit Gulfarium founder Brandy Siebenaler for the park’s altruistic environmental vision. Siebenaler, an unassuming marine research scientist educated at the University of North Carolina, was a pioneer in his field, discovering new life forms in the Gulf of Mexico and remaining on the cutting-edge of marine mammal science. After conducting several research studies off of the Okaloosa Island Pier in the early 1950s, he conceptualized a dream project that opened in 1955: Florida’s Gulfarium. “Conservation has always been and will always be a part of our mission,” Berry says.

Clockwise From Top: Florida's Gulfarium General Manager Patrick Berry with Zac, a 17 year-old bottlenose dolphin, a breed he has trained, researched and written about for two decades; The Gulfarium's Stranded Turtle Coordinator Rachel Cain releases Talulla, a 75-pound Kemp's ridley sea turtle on Oct. 21, 2011, at John Beasley Park on Okaloosa Island. Talulla was found four months earlier flipped over onto her carapace, or back, just out of the surf; This endangered gray wolf lives at the Seacrest Wolf Preserve in Chipley, Fla., which offers the rarest opportunity in the lower 48, Alaska or Canada to experience wolves up close and personal in their natural habitat. 64 April–May 2012

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Venture out of doors to explore and observe the Emerald Coast’s beautiful bounty. Each of these locations offers either a unique vantage point or hands-on experience unlike any other. Seacrest Wolf Preserve 3449 Bonnet Pond Rd, Chipley (850) 773-2897 A rare opportunity to “run with the wolves.” Gulf Islands National Seashore Okaloosa Island/Pensacola/ Perdido Key This stunning expanse of preserved national beachfront spans 160 miles from Cat Island, Mississippi, to Okaloosa Island in Fort Walton Beach. Come here to swim, hike, bike, fish, bird watch, boat or camp. In the Florida district, informative visitor centers are located at Naval Live Oaks, Fort Pickens and Fort Barrancas. Trails are located at Naval Live Oaks, including the historic two-mile Andrew Jackson trail.

Photo by Derek DiDonato courtesy Florida's Gulfarium (turtle RElease)

Adventures Unlimited Canopy Zipline 8974 Tomahawk Landing Rd., Milton (850) 623-6197 Get a fresh perspective while soaring above sugar white sandbars, flowing streams and verdant forests on a milelong ecological zipline adventure tour. Sea turtles, in particular, are a focus of their conservation efforts. Though there are no formal records of how many green, Kemp’s ridley or loggerhead sea turtles have been rescued over the past 57 years, the Gulfarium’s staff took in 18 and released 15 back into the Gulf in 2011 alone. Three of the rescued turtles that move a little slower these days now call one of the Gulfarium’s observation tanks home. Floater, one of the staff’s favorites, was injured when a boat hit him and put a hole in his shell. When his shell healed, air was trapped underneath it, restricting his ability to sink and survive in the wild. Floater’s sinking story is all too common. Though some rescues are a direct result of annual cold spells that stun the turtles and get them off track, most sustain their injuries from boats and entanglements in line, rope and fishing hooks. “It’s too often human impact. We urge everyone to recycle and make sure trash gets to where it belongs and do our part for the environment,” Berry says. If Berry’s strategic planning efforts are realized, that’s just one message visitors will learn even more in 2012. The marine attraction veteran plans to bring “best practice” efforts from his successful experiences at world-class marine attractions in Orlando to enhance the Gulfarium’s guest experience. First up on his short list is to add more interactive programs that give guests a hands-on experience. “We want to offer a dolphin interaction program that gets you into the water with dolphin, snorkeling with rays; and experiences with penguin, harbor seals and sea lions,” he says. “If we do our job right, our guests walk away with an empathy for the animals and are inspired to help conserve them.” ec

E.O. Wilson Biophilia Center 4956 Highway 20, Freeport (850) 835-1824 Visit the center nestled in the Longleaf Pine ecosystem — the sixth most bio-diverse area in the continental U.S. — and walk trails, see displays and videos and hear presentations from knowledgeable docents and staff on the center’s many conservation projects. Emerald Coast Utilities Authority Bayou Marcus Nature Boardwalk 3050 Fayal Drive, Perdido Key (850) 458-1658 The award-winning nature boardwalk is a section of the Great Florida Birding and Wildlife Nature Trail, a 2,000-mile self-guided highway track connecting nearly 500 birding sites throughout the state. The boardwalk perches above the Bayou Marcus Wetlands, where visitors can observe as many as 17 known species that are endangered, threatened or of special concern.

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com April–May 2012

TO OUR ELDERLY AND VETERANS ASSISTANCE PROGRAM

“You are the only people who visit me.” “It means a lot to us who can’t afford little things like these.” “God provides and thankfully, He often provides through you.” “You’re the only family I have.”

(850) 319-1755 sponsorsofhope@yahoo.com

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MEDICAL PROFILES

Quality health care is about choice. Emerald Coast Surgery Center is affiliated with some of the most experienced and respected physicians on the Emerald Coast. Working together since 1993, we focus on the best care for patients â&#x20AC;&#x201D; one reason why more and more patients choose our facility to meet their surgical needs each year.

Emerald Coast Surgery Center

save patients and insurers money. The ASC Association reports Medicare and its beneficiaries pay an average of 48 percent less for a procedure performed in an ASC than for the same procedure performed in a hospital outpatient department.

What is your business philosophy?

photo by Scott Holstein

Why should patients consider an Ambulatory Surgery Center (ASC) such as the Emerald Coast Surgery Center?

Patient satisfaction is the hallmark of the Ambulatory Surgery Center industry. We offer safe, high-quality professional care, convenience and cost-effective services. ASCs must meet Medicare standards and be approved by the federal government and be licensed by the state. Additionally, ECSC has achieved accreditation by the Accreditation Association for Ambulatory Healthcare.

Tell us something about Ambulatory Surgery Centers we may not know.

People who choose to have surgery in an ASC arrive on the day of their procedure, have their procedure in a fully equipped operating room and recover under the care of highly skilled nurses. Patients and families benefit from the comfortable, safe, low-infection risk environment ASCs offer.

How are ASCs cost effective? In addition to providing high-quality health care and excellent service, ASCs

We live our values every day: clinical quality, integrity, service excellence, teamwork, accountability and continuous improvement.

What makes the Emerald Coast Surgery Center a successful Ambulatory Surgery Center?

The wonderful people that we have working here make our center the place to be. We have professionals who are committed to excellent customer service and clinical quality.

CONTACT

995 Mar Walt Drive, Fort Walton Beach (850) 863-7887 Email: Karen.payne@scasurgery.com EmeraldCoastMagazine.com Aprilâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;May 2012

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“

”

At Cook Family Dentistry our team wishes to create an environment of comfort and friendliness for the community of South Walton to enjoy.

Cassidy T. Cook, DMD Cook Family Dentistry Who are your clients?

We like to call ourselves a “Dental Haven for All Ages.” We serve patients looking for a refreshing and comfortable dental experience.

Why did you get into this profession?

My father was a dentist. Early in high school I began to develop a strong interest in pursuing the dental profession. 68 April–May 2012

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Why did you choose to locate your business on the Emerald Coast?

I was raised in Marianna, Fla. My wife and I both grew up vacationing on the Emerald Coast. We love it here and always knew we wanted to end up here.

What is your professional background?

I received a Bachelor of Science degree in

biology from Samford University; a Doctor of Dental Medicine degree from the University of Florida and have an Advanced Education in General Dentistry certificate.

What is your business philosophy?

Our team’s goal is to build trusted, candid doctor-patient relationships. We work to educate our patients and provide the best comprehensive dentistry possible.

Tell us about your recent expansion.

When we bought the practice in 2010, the treatment options were limited. We now offer full comprehensive dentistry, and we added a treatment room to better serve our patients.

CONTACT

2441 Highway 98 West, Suite 107 Santa Rosa Beach (850) 622-2226

photos by kansas pitts (Jennifer Esses) and Scott Holstein (Grand boulevard ANd Cassidy Cook)

MEDICAL PROFILES

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MEDICAL PROFILES

E. Jennifer Esses, M.D. OB/GYN Women and Children First How long have you been practicing? I have been practicing in obstetrics and gynecology for 15 years, 11 of which have been in private practice on the Emerald Coast.

What is your business and educational background? Boston University, six-year medical program; OB/GYN residency at Wright Patterson Air Force Base/Wright State University in Dayton, Ohio; four years of active-duty service as the OB flight commander on Eglin Air Force Base.

Why did you get into this specialty? I can relate to my patients on a personal level, as well as professionally. That connection allows me to care for them not just physically, but emotionally and spiritually also.

Where do you practice? I deliver at the Family Birth Place and at Sacred Heart Hospital Emerald Coast, and am accepting new patients.

Contact 31 E. Mack Bayou Rd. Santa Rosa Beach Miramar Beach: (850) 267-2292

Grand Boulevard Health and Rehabilitation Center What services do you provide? 24-hour skilled nursing care, respite services, rehabilitation therapy, longterm care and hospice care. We have onsite psychosocial, dental, optometry and podiatry services.

What is your business philosophy?

We work to provide a compassionate community of caring for our residents, families and associates.

Tell us about your recent changes.

We now provide one-on-one rehabilitation services including physical, occupational and speech therapy.

What is the “secret” of your success?

“

Our vision is to be the best long-term care organization in the nation.

”

Building relationships within our community and providing excellent customer service is what makes us a successful health care center.

CONTACT

138 Sandestin Lane, Miramar Beach (850) 267-2887 EmeraldCoastMagazine.com April–May 2012

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MEDICAL PROFILES

Thomas L. Hills, DMD

Emerald Coast Dentistry Tell us about your dental practice.

We have been in business for 37 years and serving the Emerald Coast for 30 years. We offer cosmetic, restorative and prosthetic dentistry, as well as root canal therapy.

Why did you choose to work on the Emerald Coast?

I’m a United States Air Force “brat.” My father was stationed at Eglin Air Force Base and then Hurlburt Field. I fell in love with the area and returned here after completing my degree in dental medicine at the University of Florida.

What is your business philosophy?

We strive to provide the finest quality dental care to our patients that is both painless and stress free.

What is the “secret” to your success? We employ highly trained, gifted and caring professionals.

CONTACT

931 Mar Walt Drive, Fort Walton Beach (850) 863-1722

Erin B. Sutton, DMD

Emerald Coast Dentistry What services do you provide?

For more than 14 years now we have served the Emerald Coast with an emphasis on all phases of pediatric dentistry, IV sedation, crowns and cosmetic restorative procedures.

Why did you choose to base your practice on the Emerald Coast?

I love the sun, surf and sand, but it’s the charming people that keep me here.

What is your background?

I have a bachelor’s degree in biology from the University of West Florida and earned my degree in dental medicine at the University of Florida — College of Dentistry. I have training and certification in pediatric sedation from UF as well.

What is your business strategy?

We treat all of our patients with dignity. Listen to what they want, and guide them to healthy choices.

What is the “secret” to your success?

Surround yourself with terrific people and always try to do what is right and just.

CONTACT

931 Mar Walt Drive, Fort Walton Beach (850) 863-1722 I Email: emeraldcoastdentistry@gmail.com 70 April–May 2012

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MEDICAL PROFILES

Kevin W. Wells, OD, FAAO, Diplomate, American Board of Optometry Wells Vision and Laser Eye Center What services does your practice provide?

We offer eye exams, onsite LASIK (laser eye surgery), glasses, contact lenses, treatment of eye diseases and injuries. We also have a full sunglass shop with prescription sunglasses available from all of the top designers. Our in-house lab enables us to produce most prescriptions same day, including progressives, anti-reflective and photochromic treatments.

How long have you been in business?

We have been in business for 14 years. We opened our optometry office in Destin in the fall of 2011.

Tell us about your background.

Tell us about some of the newer technology and services you offer.

We provide high-definition eye exams utilizing MARCO OPD Scan III technology and TRS 5100 refracting system to measure the clearest, sharpest vision possible. We also have the latest in refractive surgery (LASIK) technology, the AMO S4 Excimer Laser with Iris Registration.

Tell us what you like to do when you are not in the office.

I love to spend time with my lovely wife, Amy, and our daughters Gabrielle

and Alexandra. In my free time I enjoy working out, golfing and traveling with my family.

CONTACT

4012 Commons Dr. West, Suite 110, Destin (850) 424-6677 I Email: info@wellsvisioncenter.com

Photo courtesy Stylepix Photography (Wells vision and laser eye center)

I received a Doctor of Optometry degree from Northestern State University College of Optometry. I have earned the status of Diplomate, American

Board of Optometry, (about 1 percent of optometrists in the United States have achieved this level), and Fellow, American Academy of Optometry (about 10 percent of optometrists). In 2006, I was named Oklahoma Young Optometrist of the Year.

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com Aprilâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;May 2012

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MEDICAL PROFILES

Dr. Olivier Broutin Bluewater Bay Dental Would you call your relationship with your dentist dynamic? It should be. Your dentist can do much more than fill a cavity or place a crown — the right dentist can change your life. Meet Dr. Olivier Broutin. Not only is he a gifted dentist but also an artist and a philosopher. He doesn’t simply go to work, he reflects on the why and how of his approach and considers every mouth he touches worthy of his full attention and energy. Dr. Broutin is dedicated to his field: “I have a passion for dentistry, but I’ve also come to realize that what I truly love is helping people. Dentists have a rare gift — we can make people feel better, relieve pain, increase self-esteem and boost confidence. We have the ability to transform lives in a unique way. I 72 April–May 2012

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feel blessed to have this gift, and I want to be able to help anyone coming to see me.” Helping people find comfort and relief that makes them feel and look great is one of the primary reasons Dr. Broutin chose dentistry as his profession. He is especially interested in complex restorative dentistry, including dental implants, and he makes dental care easy by offering sedation dentistry. Of course, he offers a full menu of general and cosmetic treatments as well, including TMJ and facial pain therapy, smile makeovers, Invisalign, advanced periodontal maintenance, porcelain veneers, bridges and crowns, and many other services. He also provides Juvederm, Botox and Zoom! teeth whitening to complete the transformation.

”

To create a total experience for his patients, Dr. Broutin has focused on making the office environment as soothing and peaceful as possible. “I want people to come to my office and say, ‘Hey! This is what I always wanted in a dentist!’ Patients should know they become the center of our attention the moment they walk in the door. I want to build relationships and understand patient needs so they can actually enjoy their dentistry and leave with a spring in their steps and smiles on their faces,” he says. Dr. Broutin has been a resident of the Emerald Coast for the past 12 years. When not studying dentistry, he spends his free time with his wife, Amber, and their four children. He also enjoys running and Florida’s beautiful beaches.

CONTACT

4400 Hwy. 20 East, Suite 101, Niceville (850) 897-4488 www.bluewaterbaydentist.com

photos by scott holstein

“

My work is about helping people smile again.

Your Choice for Comprehensive Cancer Care Warren R. Amos, M.D.

James H. Stevens, M.D.

David Mann, M.D.

Robert Long, M.D.

Basil Fossum, M.D.

Thomas Zachos, M.D.

Radiation Oncology

Urology

Radiation Oncology

Urology

Medical Oncology

Urology

Leading-Edge Technology for a Better Tomorrow Urology Urology Radiation & Medical Oncology Urology Radiation Oncology Radiation Oncology 909 Mar-Walt Drive 914B Mar-Walt Drive 131 Redstone Ave Suite 102 601 Redstone Ave., West 1026 Mar-Walt Drive 6879 Hwy. 98 West Fort Walton Beach, FL 32547 Fort Walton Beach, FL 32547 Crestview, FL 32539 Ft. Walton Beach, FL 32547 Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32549 Crestview, FL 32536

(850) 863-5294

(850) 622-3308

(850) 863-3377

(850) 226-6572

(850) 682-6333

For more information, visit our website: www.21stCenturyOncology.com EmeraldCoastMagazine.com Aprilâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;May 2012

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the good life Food + Travel + Hea lth + Home

eudaimonia*

The Arts Thrive Down by the Bayou

During the turn of the century Hogtown Bayou — nestled on the northern end of County Road 393 in Santa Rosa Beach — was home to a general store, sugar cane syrup factory, cannery, turpentine mills, hotels and other merchants. Today, the stunning three-acre plot of historic land nestled on the bayou is the new home of the Bayou Arts Center, a public art space, meeting venue and home office to the Cultural Arts Alliance (CAA) led by executive director Jennifer Steele. In addition to giving grants and scholarships and hosting art classes and workshops, the CAA showcases the talents of local and national artists in its rotating gallery exhibits in the Center. The St. Francis Chapel, which is also on the site, features a panoramic folk-life mural. The CAA might be best known for the art events it stages throughout the community each year, including the upcoming ArtsQuest Fine Arts Festival May 10–13. “We are excited to welcome the community to our new home and spread awareness of our ongoing programs and classes,” says Steele. The Bayou Arts Center is free and open to the public Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. — Zandra Wolfgram

*happiness is ...

Photo by Scott Holstein

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com April–May 2012

going places

China Luxe First-Class Tour Makes Your Visit More Enlightening — and Enjoyable

By Jack Macalevy

The towering Park Hyatt Hotel offers a spectacular perspective on the tiered top of the Jin Mao Building and a panoramic look at Shanghai.

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Photo courtesy Hyatt Hotels

ere’s how I define “a trip of a lifetime”: Successful planning and then a journey to a unique destination where you can experience the culture, the food and the people with a minimal amount of stress and difficulty. And, while there, having the opportunity to see the major sites and cities from a “backstage” perspective — having knowledgeable guides and handlers who will see to your safety and comfort so you can experience everything from as local a perspective as possible. China — one of the world’s most mysterious and exotic destinations — reopened its doors to international travel in 1974. Even the most seasoned travelers find it very difficult to travel to and within the borders of China because of: the distance — a 13-hour flight and

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full-day’s time change; the sheer size of the country and the pure challenge of getting around; the extreme difference in language and ability to read and decipher signage. There’s really only one viable option — group travel. Over the past decade, international tour operators have set up and operated pricey cruise-like tours to the country. Folks are herded in large groups, packed on buses and taken to the doors of many notable sites. It can be nightmarish: hard work for the traveler and a “cattle call” experience that is oftentimes disappointing. There is an alternative to the traditional mass experience that, without question, is an enjoyable, once-in-a-lifetime trip. Beijing-based Imperial Tours has polished

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and perfected a two-week guided experience of China that from all perspectives is an intimate, in-depth, five-star, first-class, stressless experience. The company was developed and is owned by Guy Rubin and Nancy Kim, who have been called The Power Couple of Beijing by ChinaDaily. They have assembled a team of travel specialists who — from your first call of inquiry about the trip, to escorting you personally to the departure gate on the day of your return home — will handle every logistical detail and all your personal needs. Their small group trips are limited to no more than 12 to 14 people to ensure every aspect of your experience is taken care of. Imperial Tours has been written up in prestigious titles such as Travel + Leisure, Conde Nast Traveler and Saveur. When you deplane from your arriving flight, dazed and confused, an escort meets you at the gate and personally shepherds you to immigration and customs and then through baggage claim. For an additional fee, one can receive diplomatic status and be whisked through a private area of customs with no waiting. Our 20-day trip would include 36 flights — 30 of them within China alone — and the tour company’s attention to the smallest details that would make the experience easy and enjoyable.

On flights within China, you are met by a limo driver at the bottom of the plane’s stairs and driven over the tarmac to your next flight rather than boarding a passenger bus and being taken to the terminal. In addition, your bags are taken from your hotel room to the airport — and delivered to your room at the next hotel. You never have to wait in line for boarding passes; they’re processed in advance and given to you at the airport where you’re escorted through VIP security lines. Upon arriving at several destinations within China, Imperial Tours secures fullsized 50-plus-seat buses for the entourage of 14 guests and three or four handlers, so everyone can just spread out after the flight. One can also pay an additional fee to be upgraded to first class seating on flights within the country. In addition, Imperial caters special food for your flight so you can avoid airline food. An invaluable part of the tour is the personal guide who travels with the group for the entire trip. He or she learns your individual preferences and proactively accommodates them. In addition, at whatever city you visit, a local expert guide greets the group at the airport and brings each destination alive with intimate knowledge of the area’s history and culture.

Photos Courtesy Amanresorts

going places

For example, there are two ways to see the Great Wall — you can drive an hour out of Beijing and see it with 5,000 others in a small area filled with souvenir peddlers who constantly surround you. With Imperial, you drive in a luxury bus for two and a half hours and enter the Great Wall in a remote area where you are almost alone as you walk along the wall and gaze out at vistas stretching for 20 miles. Inside one of the ancient guard towers you’ll find a white-tablecloth luncheon set up for your group with a chef awaiting. The floor and table are sprinkled with rose petals. The food is five-star quality, and the local guide brings the history of the wall alive as you dine and relax in the centuries-old fortress. Should you decide to make the trip to the other side of the world, might I recommend to go a week early and have Imperial set up an individual itinerary for you. It allowed us to decompress from the trip, relax and adjust to the new time zone and place. We first chose to go to Hangzhou, called “by far the most glorious city in the world” by perhaps history’s most famous tourist, Marco Polo. We stayed at the Aman Fayun, a peaceful hillside retreat surrounded by tea fields. One of the region’s oldest Buddhist temples was just a 10-minute walk away. We also

Left: Images of Hangenjoyed a drive zhou’s West Lake and through the tea interior look at the plantations and restful Aman Fayun retreat. The wonders were guests in and around Bejing of honor at include (clockwise a private tea from top) the Great Wall of China, the ceremony and Forbidden City and the tea tasting. Our nearby tea fields. “take-it-easy” time included a boat tour of the romantic West Lake, featuring pagodas, causeways and landscaped islands. After three nights in Hangzhou, we flew to the historic city of Lijiang, which 500 years ago was a trading spot on the tea and horse caravan route. The small town center is situated on the dry soils of the lower Tibetan plateau and stream water has ingeniously been channeled through its ancient, paved streets. After our restful idyll, we flew to Bejing to begin our tour in earnest. Our first day’s itinerary included a visit to one of ancient China’s most sacred sites, the Temple of Heaven, used by the Emperor to mediate affairs between God and man. But a special Imperial Tour treat was a visit to one of China’s largest outdoor antique markets where you could pick up an antique for only a few dollars. EmeraldCoastMagazine.com April–May 2012

We visited the must-see sights — Tian’anmen Square, the Summer Palace of Empress Dowager Cixi, the Great Wall and the antique Forbidden City. As its name implied, in years past, visitors were not allowed in the Forbidden City, but the tour gave us special access to the emperor’s personal residence, which is normally closed to the general public. If you want to shop for pearls, your guide can take you on an after-hours visit to a showroom where you’ll see images of their customers — Nancy Reagan, Hillary Clinton, Tony Blair, George H.W. Bush and a long list of Hollywood and international celebrities. They guarantee a 20 percent discount — and coach you through the process of getting it up to 50 percent. After three days in Beijing, we flew to Xi’an, home to the famous Terracotta Warriors. This underground army guarding the vast mausoleum complex of Emperor Qinshihuang is incredible and usually viewed at a distance from above. Our group was taken down to the excavation site, and I was able to stand 80 April–May 2012

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next to one of the “soldiers” and speak to an archaeologist — just one of so many incredible experiences during the tour. We then flew to Guilin, where we enjoyed a ride on traditional bamboo rafts along the Li River and had the opportunity to see traditional village life of rural China. We spent time with the local guide’s parents and watched them make tofu, visited a school during recess and had a private chat with the “mayor” to ask any political or leadership questions. From there, we finished up our tour in Shanghai, which was like traveling from the past to the future. Our “in the clouds” accommodations were at the spectacular Park Hyatt Hotel. In a city of skyscrapers, we were above it all, with commanding, unforgettable views of the Pearl Tower and the rest of the city. We slept on the 90th floor, visited the spa and swimming pool on the 96th floor, dined on the 99th floor and finished up with a nightclub on the 101st floor. While much of the city is thoroughly modern, we toured Shanghai’s colonial architecture, including the French

Photo of children courtesy Imperial Tours

going places

2011

Lunch: Mon-Fri 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Dinner: Mon-Wed 5 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., Thurs-Sat 5 p.m. to 10 p.m.

12273 Emerald Coast Pkwy. Holiday Plaza, Ste. 101, Miramar Beach, FL 32550 (850) 650-5980 | www.fatclemenzas.com

2011: Best Pizza, Best Italian & Best Chef 2010: Best Chef & Best Pizza 2009: Best Pizza 2008: Best Italian

Counter Clockwise from Top Left: A visit to Guilin included a bamboo raft ride on the Li River was well as glimpses of rural life including children and rice terraces. Xi’an is home to the Terracotta Warriors.

Concession, whose sycamore-lined boulevards add a distinctive French panache to this “Paris of the Orient.” We learned about Chinese art at the Shanghai Museum and visited the Yu Gardens. One highlight of my visit was meeting with an 80-year-old Chinese doctor who assessed what was ailing me. He took my pulse and told me I had lower back issues and a chronic overactive acid output problem with my stomach — both of which were right on the mark. He sent me home with a selection of custommade herbs. Yes, it is more expensive — a 12-night tour plus airfare to China will cost about $10,000 per person (about 20 to 30 percent more than the usual) — but if this truly is a once-in-a-lifetime visit, your days will be filled with deep, enriching experiences you’ll always remember. ec

Exceptional Quality of Care

Proudly Serving All Rehab Needs of the Emerald Coast | Offering Physical, Occupational and Speech Therapy | Long Term Care and Assisted Living Services

138 Sandestin Lane | Miramar Beach, FL 32550 Adjacent to Sacred Heart Hospital of the Emerald Coast

850-267-2887 | www.gulfcoasthealthcare.com EmeraldCoastMagazine.com April–May 2012

in motion

Constant Learning Golfing Great Annika Sorenstam Tips Us Off

n May, Annika Sorenstam will be hosting several major events on the Emerald Coast, the collective scope of which is billed as “ANNIKA & Friends at Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort.” The two main components are a celebrity pro-am tournament at the Raven Golf Club and a special concert starring Darius Rucker (former lead singer for Hootie and the Blowfish) at Grand Boulevard in Sandestin. Proceeds from the two days of events will go to the ANNIKA Foundation, something Sorenstam helped to create to teach youngsters the benefits of fitness and nutrition. Also receiving proceeds will be SPARK, which stands for Sports, Play and Active Recreation for Kids. With this money SPARK will be seeking to establish some of its programs in selected elementary schools throughout Northwest Florida. Growing up in Sweden, Sorenstam was an athlete of multiple dimensions, a star tennis player and skier who could also play soccer. But at age 12, she decided to concentrate on golf. And this determined young woman became so famous that her brand involves simply her first name.

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Photos courtesy Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort and Annika Foundation

By Thomas J. Monigan

In 15 years as a professional, she won 89 tournaments around the world, including 72 on the LPGA (Ladies Professional Golf Association) tour. She is the first and only female to earn more than $20 million in a career. Despite a jam-packed schedule during her January visit, Annika Sorenstam talked with EC Magazine about what we thought our readers wanted to know most: Golf tips!

EC: Do you have any specific tips for youngsters (12 through teens) to improve their game? ANNIKA: My best tip for juniors is to develop the same routine for every shot — whether it is a drive, iron, chip or putt. My routine took 25 seconds — from the time I put my glove on, until the time that I hit the shot. This will develop consistency in both thinking about the shot, then executing the shot. Everyone’s routine is a little different, but find the one that works for you, then stick with it on every shot. EC: How about tips for women? ANNIKA: If you’re just beginning to play golf, try to find a friend to play and practice with at your same level — that will make learning a difficult sport more fun. Be sure to balance practice time with play on the course because they are very different activities. To improve, you’ll need a good instructor to assist and follow my tip about developing a consistent routine for every shot.

Don’t Forget Mother’s Day!

850-226-4111

Manner Plaza | 230 Eglin Pkwy NE Fort Walton Beach, FL 32547 www.ediblearrangements.com

EC: But can you get better without actually playing a round on a regular basis? ANNIKA: Absolutely. Putt at home. Swing at home. You need any type of practice. I mean, some people are limited by weather, but just to maintain whatever you have is good. People say, ‘I can’t play, it’s raining.’ So I say, ‘Why don’t you go and get a putter out and putt towards a cup in your living room or swing in your garage?’ Anything would help you. Also, stay fit in the gym. I’m not talking about going out and running 10 miles or anything like that. Obviously, strength has to do with flexibility, and it has to do with muscle control. The golf game is not an easy motion and I think if you have flexibility and a good range of motion it’s going to help you swing better. EC: How long did it take you to learn the game? ANNIKA: Well, you never learn 100 percent. It’s constant learning, which I think is what makes it so much fun. ec

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com April–May 2012

habitat The Jenrich family in Destin's Regatta Bay community swear by the talents of Barefoot Lawn Care, Inc. to keep their lawn looking lush year round.

Green With Envy

A How You, Too, Can be King of the Grass By Lis King

84 April–May 2012

re you yard-obsessed, jogging jealously past your neighbors’ lush gardens? Then you’re not alone. Floridians love their yards, even more so than the rest of the country, according to the National Gardening Association, and that’s saying a lot now that gardening has become America’s No. 1 hobby. “It’s because of our nice weather, of course,” says Denelle Polk, owner of Pizazz-Scape in Fort Walton Beach. “We love spending time outside, so our gardens are very important to us.” This is a good thing, right? Well, not always. Realtors complain that some homeowners — especially those who moved here from cold regions — are so enamored by their pleasant new climate that they overwhelm their yards. Polk agrees. “Balance in the landscaping is important,” she says. “Some people put in so many shrubs, so many flowers, that the yard becomes cluttered and looks smaller. Also, the maintenance of such a garden could well scare off a buyer.” Planning Matters “Get help planning a garden that you’ll love and that makes sense,” urges Polk. “Sometimes that means scrapping what you’ve got and starting anew. I actually love making over horrible yards, and it has become a specialty of mine.”

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com

Photo by Scott Holstein

Pam Johnson of Barefoot Lawncare, which operates out of Santa Rosa Beach, also loves helping homeowners plan their yards. “People need to think intelligently about their gardens,” she says. Johnson suggests homeowners ask themselves some key questions. How will they use it? Do they entertain out there? Do they need a lawn for the kids to play on? What kind of plants do they like? How much maintenance are they willing to put up with? Local lawn experts all agree there are many mistakes that can be made, but they seem to agree on one prickly point: Homeowners buy plants without knowing their growth habits. “They should pick plants that grow only to the size they want them. If they need a five-foot-high screening between their yard and the neighbor’s, they shouldn’t put in something that grows 10 feet high. It’ll have to be chopped back all the time. It’s a waste of water plus extra work,” Johnson explains. “I like to take my clients to nurseries and explain the plants to them. And on the way, I might stop to look at a purple flower they’d admired in a neighbor’s yard.” Polk and Johnson list other considerations, such as planting a shade tree in the right place, the view of the garden from the house, the right mixture of color and texture, and, of course, curb appeal. Beyond the greenery there are special features, from fencing to water features, to fit into the landscape plan. “There are always new challenges in this business, which is what I love about it,” says Polk. “When I’m not working — meaning planting and tending gardens — I read up on what’s happening in the field, such as pest control, invasive plants and watersaving landscapes.” Brave New Lawn The lawn is the most changed area in today’s yard. For some years now, homeowners have been re-thinking that perfect lawn we know from putting greens and English manor houses. Tired of high water bills, mowing every week and a schedule of fertilizing and weed control applications, they’re taking a good, hard look at new garden strategies. Xeriscaping, a term based on the Greek word for ‘dry,’ is one of those strategies, according to Johnson and Polk. It emerged first in the West, where water resources are thin, and has been spreading to other regions among conservation-minded homeowners who want to grow beautiful gardens. “Many xeric principles are simply common sense,” explains Johnson. “For example, it includes using native plant materials rather than exotic imports. Mulching to minimize evaporation as well as keep weeds at bay is another xeric strategy. Anybody who has ever

traveled to Southern France or Tuscany has seen xeriscaping at work. There, heat-tolerant and water-efficient perennials, herbs and vines create lovely, fragrant landscapes.” But many gardeners are still attached to their green lawn. And when people move from one region to another, they often bring along deeply-rooted notions of what a garden should look like. Though some gardeners exclusively associate green plants with good health, garden gurus say otherwise. “Xeriscape can be fabulous. Color and texture make them special. And there are many types of grasses, some of them drought-resistant, so you needn’t forego a lawn, even if you decide to xeriscape,” Polk advises. Bermuda grass, which comes in many varieties, is ranked as one of the best in the world. It thrives in tropical and sub-tropical climates with heavy rainfall, but it can also endure long periods without precipitation. It flourishes in well-drained soil that receives plenty of sunlight. Zoysia is another grass that can withstand droughts, and it also boasts many varieties. The Right Landscaper There are a lot of landscaping services out there, but if you’ve decided you want someone who doesn’t just arrive with a machine and spends 15 minutes charging around your lawn, you need to do some homework. Instead of just opening the phone book and signing a contract with the first company listed, you should interview a few companies. Remember, not every lawn care service offers the same services, certifications and professionalism. Polk, who started her landscaping business 12 years ago after a career in property management, suggests that you get references from each company you’re interviewing, and then go look at the gardens they’re taking care of. She says you might also walk around your neighborhood, single out yards you admire and then get the name of the landscaping companies from those homeowners.

How much “green” to get the grass green? A typical estimate for lawn service will include prices for weekly lawn cut, weeding beds, trimming hedges, a chemical program, etc. These items may be priced individually or lumped together as a monthly maintenance price. Usually, companies discount prices if you sign up for several services. ➺ A weekly lawn cut for half an acre averages $30 to $50. ➺ Expect to pay $25 to $50 per month for weeding beds.

Johnson, whose firm has been voted one of “The Best of the Emerald Coast” by EC Magazine readers, jumps right into the fray and suggests you ask this question: “Do you have a pesticide license?” She says the answer will tell you a lot more than whether the person you’re interviewing is legally allowed to treat your lawn. It will also reveal if he has had some training beyond mowing his parents’ backyard. Also make sure the service has business, liability and workers’ comp insurance, and ask whether they provide work beyond lawn care. Finally, ask to see the company’s portfolio. Study the pictures for their overall effects, as well as clean edging and healthy plants. Make sure the firm gives proper notice before spraying chemicals, as you’ll want kids and pets out of the way. What is included in each visit? Will the landscaper just mow and blow, or will he also prune, fertilize, etc.? Get it all in writing. ec

Landscaping Myths Taking care of a yard is mired in myths that can lead to common landscaping mistakes. ➺ It isn’t true that you should water your lawn in the evening to conserve water. Doing so is harmful. The water ends up sitting on top of the grass, allowing lawn fungus and disease to fester. ➺ If I mow my grass shorter, I won’t have to do it as often. Not so. You’ll rob your lawn of its ability to produce sugar from photosynthesis, exposing sensitive root systems to excessive sunlight and giving weeds a leg up. EmeraldCoastMagazine.com April–May 2012

gardening

In Search of the Perfect Home-Grown Tomato Ms. Grow-It-All

By Audrey Post

Q: What’s the secret to growing good tomatoes? There’s no single secret to growing tomatoes successfully in the Florida Panhandle. Rather, it’s multiple factors that combine to create beautiful, tasty fruit — yes, fruit — in your own yard. Notice I didn’t say “backyard.” No need to hide your crop behind the house. The best place for it might well be beside the front door, especially if your backyard is shady and the sun casts its warm glow out front for most of the day. Before you decide where to plant your tomatoes, you must decide what tomatoes you’re going to plant. Hybrids such as Better Boy, Homestead and Celebrity have proven their worth in our high heat and humidity. Heirloom varieties such as Brandywine and Arkansas Traveler are proven successes here. Both the heirloom cherry and grape tomato varieties, such as Fox Cherry 86 April–May 2012

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com

and Egg Yolk, and the hybrid smaller tomatoes, such as Juliet and Tami G., continue to bear even when high heat holds the larger tomato plants in check. Your local nurseries can direct you to heat- and humiditytolerant varieties suitable for this climate. Tomatoes need full sun, which generally means eight hours of sun a day. Our sunlight is so strong that six hours of direct sun is sufficient to grow tomatoes, as is eight to 10 hours of high, filtered shade — the sort of shade you find under tall pines with few low branches. If you don’t have a spot in your yard that gets the required amount of sunlight, watch how the sun moves through your yard during the day. You might be able to plant your tomatoes in large pots or buckets and move them around the yard. You scoff? If so, you obviously have enough sunlight somewhere in your yard to grow tomatoes. I know someone who placed potted tomatoes, and other vegetables in pots, on casters in his driveway and chased the sun from morning to midday to afternoon. That, my friends, is commitment. Tomatoes also need ample and consistent water. One of the most common problems with tomatoes is blossom-end rot, that soft, dark spot on the bottom of tomatoes that spreads and renders the fruit inedible. It is caused by a calcium deficiency and aggravated by inconsistent watering. Letting plants dry out between watering guarantees you’ll lose the fruit, so make sure you have a system, whether automatic or manual,

that delivers sufficient water regularly. And make sure your soil contains enough calcium. Crushed eggshells mixed into the soil will boost the calcium level. Tomatoes are voracious feeders and need regular fertilizing, and they need some sort of support. Mix generous amounts of composted manure with the soil when you plant the tomatoes, and apply a watersoluble all-purpose fertilizer every week or two throughout the growing season. Use a trellis, cage or stake to support your tomato plants, pinching off suckers — side shoots — that veer outside the support structure. It also helps if tomatoes are planted at the right time, but there is a little wiggle room on that. Ideally for our area, summer tomatoes are planted in late February. Yes, you might have to cover them a night or two if frost threatens, but the early planting gives them a chance to get established before the weather warms and pests and diseases have a chance to attack. However, most of us don’t plant tomatoes until March and sometimes not even until April, either because we waited until we thought the last frost was behind us or because we simply didn’t get around to it. (You know which group you’re in.) But you can still get a fine tomato crop if you plant now. Every yard is different. Keep notes about your tomato crop — varieties planted, planting location, fertilizer use and watering patterns. You learn as you go and subsequent crops will be better based on what you’ve learned.

Q: What’s the best way to add summer color to my yard? To answer your question, I first must ask one: What do mean by “best?” Do you mean the quickest way to provide a splash of color? If so, the answer would probably be to incorporate summer-blooming annuals. Salvias, angelonias, zinnias and marigolds do well in full sun. For shade to part-shade areas, the blossoms of begonias and impatiens provide a burst of color. The foliage of caladiums will brighten dark corners of your yard. If your definition of “best” means the most economical, you probably want to use flowering shrubs and perennials. Bulbine, firespike, bush daisies, agapanthus, day lilies and irises will provide flowers during summer and foliage the rest of the year. Duranta, a flowering shrub commonly known as golden dewdrop, has purple flowers in summer and yellow fruit in fall. And that standby of Southern gardens, the crape myrtle, creates a colorful display ranging from white to lilac to pink to red, depending on the cultivar. Check with your local garden center for recommendations for your yard. ec © 2012 Postscript Publishing, all rights reserved. Audrey Post is a certified Advanced Master Gardener volunteer with the University of Florida IFAS Extension in Leon County. Email her at Questions@MsGrowItAll.com or visit her website at msgrowitall.com. Ms. Grow-It-All® is a registered trademark of Postscript Publishing.

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EmeraldCoastMagazine.com April–May 2012

test drive

Sculpt a ‘Cool’ New You Is there really a painless, effective way to lose fat? We give a new non-invasive fat-loss procedure a test drive By Wendy O. Dixon

After

* CoolSculpting is offered at the Panama City, Tallahassee and Jacksonville locations.

88 April–May 2012

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com

Photo By www.LuftCreative.com (After Shot of Wendy Dixon) ANd Aqua Medical Spa (Before Shots of Wendy Dixon)

t’s the most common and exercise,” he says. “This complaint I hear from is not a weight-loss solution, my over-40-year-old nor does it achieve the results female friends: “I work one could expect from largeBefore out, watch what I eat and still I volume liposuction, but it is can’t get rid of this muffin top.” the best solution for permanent That “muffin top” — also known fat reduction.” The medical spa as the pooch, spare tire or love offers a free consultation for handles — is the extra stomach, prospective clients. hip and back fat around the belly Being an ideal candidate, I gave Before button that hangs over the top of it a try. The procedure begins the waistband. Many women are by placing an applicator cup to obsessed with getting rid of this The Upside: the area of fat, then using gentle stubborn and unwelcome layer It’s non-invasive, requiring vacuum pressure to draw the no surgery of blubber. bulge up between two cooling specific areas of Surgery is an option, but for Itthetargets panels. When Aqua Medical body that don’t respond those who want a less invasive to diet and exercise Spa’s Harmony Church, P.A., solution, Aqua Medical Spa There is no recovery time first applies the applicator, I at Gulf Coast Dermatology, There is little pain or discomfort feel an uncomfortable pulling headquartered in Panama City There is no neighboring sensation. It nearly takes my with new medical spas in Niceville, tissue damage breath away, but the medical Santa Rosa Beach, Tallahassee, The Downside: spa’s Ginger Francis tells me to Dothan and Jacksonville, offers a There may be some soreness, relax and breathe, and soon the redness or bruising in the area “cool” alternative*. feeling goes away as my lower for a few days CoolSculpting, or Cryolipolysis, abdomen becomes numb from Cost: made by Zeltiq, is a non-invasive The the cold. $600–$1,200, depending procedure targeting fat in specific on the area of the body being Francis starts the timer on Usually one treatment areas of the body — mostly the treated. the device, counting down from is sufficient, thought additional upper or lower abdomen, the back procedures may be done if a one hour. In my private room wants to have further and love handles — using a special patient with the lights dimmed, I read fat reduction. cooling technique, that doesn’t a book, flip channels on the TV damage neighboring tissues. Gradually, the fat and watch that timer count down to zero cells are naturally flushed out of the body over a minutes (which seems to take forever when two to four month period. There is no surgery I’ve got a vacuum on me). The staff at the or anesthesia, and no needles or cuts. There is spa makes sure I’m as comfortable as possible, no down time, you can even go back to work or so the procedure is quite tolerable. After exercise the same day as the procedure. There’s the hour is up, Francis removes the suction, no need for pain medication afterward. revealing my red, swollen belly. She smoothes Dr. Jon Ward, medical director for Aqua the lump on my abdomen that resembles a Medical Spa, says CoolSculpting is a fat-loss cold stick of butter, then I am able to leave. procedure that results in an average of 25 I feel tenderness and a numbing sensation in percent reduction of fat. The ideal candidates the area for several days afterward. By week are those who are in good physical shape, five, I notice a flatter belly (even after a night but just can’t get rid of unwanted fat. “(This of pizza — thrilling!). By week eight, I’m procedure) is for someone within 20 pounds ecstatic with the results — a stomach pooch of their ideal body weight with loose, pinchI’d worked for years to take off but never able pockets of fat that don’t respond to diet could, is now flat. ec

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com Aprilâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;May 2012

flavor

Beautiful bouquets bloom with the right stems By Tracy Louthain

90 Aprilâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;May 2012

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com

he Emerald Coast has enjoyed a long love affair with wine. Locals and visitors alike are spoiled with the abundance of unbeatable restaurants that carry award-winning wine libraries often recognized by Wine Spectator magazine. Wine events and tastings are held regularly throughout the region, and local vineyards, such as the Chautauqua Winery, produce varietals with names like Sugar Sands White and Sunset Red. With wine at the centerpiece for so many Emerald Coast celebrations, the wine glass is earning an important seat at the table.

Photos Courtesy Riedel USA

The Riedel Difference

Georg Riedel, a 10th generation wine glassmaker, was born in 1949 in Innsbruck, Austria. Fittingly, it was a wonderful vintage year for Bordeaux. The personal and professional philosophies of Riedel's chief executive are one and the same: “I am a person who lives in the here and now, rather than looking back.”

from Bohemia. For centuries, the company produced a wide range of glass goods, ranging from windowpanes and chandelier parts to colored glass beads and wine glasses. In 1958, ninth generation glassmaker, Claus Riedel, laid the groundwork for the Riedel legacy: varietal specific glasses. “It was a series of lucky discoveries,” Georg Reidel, president of Riedel Crystal, said of his father’s finding. “Before this discovery, glasses were flared. From the 1920s through the 1940s, consumer taste dictated ornate cuts and engraved glasses, showing the owner’s wealth. But there was a disadvantage; the glass did not relate to the wine.” Through the discovery process, Claus Riedel found that an egg-shaped glass captured aromas. This finding led to the development of the Burgundy Grand Cru, which he showcased at the 1958 World Exhibition in Brussels, winning a gold medal. Over the next decade, Riedel continued experimenting and eventually introduced the Sommeliers collection, the company’s first varietal specific line of stemware. From there, Georg Riedel began developing mouth-blown glass configurations to enhance the flavor of a wide variety of wines. Today, the wine glass company features nearly 150 stemware designs for specific grape varietals. “Glass design by trial and error means fine tuning the shape for wine’s specific qualities,” said Georg Riedel. “The glass becomes the wine’s ‘loudspeaker’ to transmit the message of the beverage to the human senses.” Decades later, Riedel stemware has become the gold standard. With Georg Riedel at the helm, the company continues to serve “wine lovers” and the wine industry by providing the tools to unlock the most elusive characteristics of a wine.

The Riedel Difference

The Riedel Discovery

Hundreds of wine seminar participants have had the pleasure of experiencing the “aha” moment at one or both of the local Riedel wine seminars, presented by the Destin Charity Wine Auction Foundation (DCWAF). In February 2011, Maximillian Riedel, 11th generation glassmaker, featured varietal specific glasses for white wines. In October, the legendary 10th generation glassmaker Georg Riedel (Max’s father) presented Riedel’s signature stemware for reds. The Riedels have been engaged in the art of glassmaking for more than 250 years. The family dynasty began in the late 17th century with Johann Christoph Riedel, a glassmaker

Georg Riedel’s visit to the area last fall afforded those along the coast a special moment with the native Austrian, renowned in the wine world as an engineer, designer and businessman. Armed with a charming demeanor and accented English, he greeted more than 100 wine enthusiasts in the Azalea Ballroom at Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort as part of the Destin Charity Wine Auction seminar series. Riedel took the stage in a dark business suit and engaged the group effortlessly with his quick-witted knowledge, humble manner and warm blue eyes. Riedel began the seminar with one bold statement: “I am here to complicate your wine-enjoying life.” And with that, he opened the audience to the complex sensations of smell and taste that could be experienced by simply rotating liquids in various glasses.

Selecting the Proper Stem While each wine is best experienced in a varietal specific glass, there are some generalizations that may be made. Flavor contributors are associated to the fermentation. Here’s a general guide: Two flavor contributors: floral white wines Recommended: Riesling Grand Cru Stem Three flavor contributors: oak-aged white wines Recommended: Montrachet/ Chardonnay Stem Four flavor contributors: oak-aged red wines Recommended: Cabernet Stem

How much to invest? Riedel advises that you should plan to invest in one glass as much as you spend on average for a bottle of wine.

Where to buy? Chan's Wine World 4424 Commons Dr., Destin (850) 269-2909 Williams-Sonoma Destin Commons (850) 654-1632 Belk Destin Commons (850) 650-4091

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com April–May 2012

flavor

Know your lingo

“We are the toolmakers,” said Riedel. “We are at the service of the wine industry, creating the tools for wines to perform beautifully.” Riedel went on to explain that the tip of the tongue is highly sensuous while the back of the tongue is dormant, and other areas of the tongue reflect sour, sweet, salty and bitter tastes. Each glass is designed to complement the wine’s unique “DNA” and character profile. With each trial, the audience learned that when a vessel meets its perfect mate, it romances her by opening a full bouquet, her layers beautifully exposed, creating a complex and vivid smell-taste picture. “Get intimate with the wine, allow the wine to unveil all of its secrets,” urged Riedel.

Cheers to Local Celebrations

BOWL Stemware consists of three parts: bowl, stem and base. The bowl consists of three variables: shape, size and rim diameter. Four sensations in wine: Bouquet (aroma)

STEM

Texture

(feel: watery, creamy, silky, velvety)

Flavor

(taste: fruity, minerality, acidity)

Finish

(lingering effects: short or long, balanced or harmonious).

BASE

92 April–May 2012

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Here along the coast, there are many opportunities to celebrate a love of wine. This spring, Destin Charity Wine Auction Foundation (DCWAF), which connects wine enthusiasts to help children in need, hosts Wine Party 2012–Campaign for Kids, April 27–28. The event features 13 nationally-recognized chefs and more than 20 world-class vintners, including honorary vintners Spottswoode, Duckhorn and Joseph Phelps. On April 27, 12 patron dinners pair chefs with celebrity vintners in exquisite homes along the Emerald Coast. The dinners will be followed the next day by the Reserve Tasting and Auction, with all participating vintners pouring wines and the area’s top restaurants showcasing their culinary talents. During the same weekend, Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort hosts the 26th Annual Sandestin Wine Festival, April 26–29. The indulgent weekend of all things wine includes four days of wine tastings, seminars and dinners. Featuring more than 600 wines and 80 vineyards within the picturesque Village of Baytowne Wharf, the Grand Tasting includes a culinary pavilion with mouth-watering delicacies to complement the weekend of pouring, swirling and sipping. “We are honored to partner with so many different groups to bring world-class wine and culinary events to the Emerald Coast," said DCWAF former president Todd Vucovich. “Last year, our auction weekend raised more than $1 million for local children’s charities. Those dollars contributed to healthcare, housing, food and counseling for more than 3,000 local children.” In addition to coordinating the Sandestin Wine Festival, Chan’s Wine World keeps the celebration of wine going year-round with regular wine tastings and special events. On Fridays from 5 to 7 p.m., there is a wine tasting at one or more of the three locations. The tasting series features a variety of themes such as “A Taste of Gold,” which featured 10 gold medal winners from the Sandestin Wine Festival. “An informed customer is the best customer,” said John Morris, wine educator with Chan’s Wine World. “We spend a lot of time on education with customers and staff.” Morris offers a five-part wine education series through Northwest Florida State College with an entire class dedicated to proper stemware. The Riedel family pioneered varietal specific stemware, but Georg Riedel cautioned, “If you don’t have the right company, nothing tastes good.” ec

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EmeraldCoastMagazine.com April–May 2012

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94 Aprilâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;May 2012

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dining The Key

The restaurants that appear in this guide are included as a service to readers and not as recommendations of the EC Magazine editorial department, except where noted. ★ B L d

Best of the Emerald Coast 2011 Winner Breakfast Lunch Dinner Outdoor Dining Live Music

$ Inexpensive $$ Moderately Expensive $$$ Expensive

Alys Beach George’s at Alys Beach American. Seafood, burgers and sandwiches at the perfect beachy-casual spot. Open daily 11 a.m.–3 p.m. and 5–9 p.m. 30 Castle Harbour Dr., 850-641-0017. $$ L d

Blue Mountain Beach Grecian Gardens Restaurant Mediterranean. Traditional Greek cuisine served in an open-air atmosphere perfect for special occasions or parties. Open daily 11 a.m.–9 p.m. 3375 W. Hwy. 30A, 850-267-3011. $$ L d

Destin AJ’s Seafood & Oyster Bar ★ Seafood. Choose from fresh local seafood, sandwiches, pasta, chicken or specialty dishes like the oysters Eugene or Rockefeller. Open daily 11 a.m. 116 E. Hwy. 98, 850-837-1913. $$ L d Another Broken Egg café ★ Breakfast. Breakfast all day, plus sandwiches, patty melts, specials, soups, salads and desserts. Open daily 7 a.m.–2 p.m. Closed Mondays. (Open Memorial and Labor days.) 979 E. Hwy. 98, Suite F, 850-650-0499. $ B Bonefish Grill ★ Seafood. Daily seafood specials cooked on an oak-burning wood grill. Bang-Bang Shrimp is a crowd-pleasing appetizer. Mon–Thu 4–10:30 p.m. Fri–Sat 4–11:30 p.m. Daily happy hour 4–7 p.m. 4447 E. Commons Dr., 850-650-3161. $$ d Cabana Café American. This eatery, boasting specialty coffee and ice cream, was voted Best New Business in 2008. Open daily 11 a.m.–2 a.m. 112 Seascape Blvd., 850-424-3574. $B L d Callahan’s Restaurant & Deli ★ American. Voted Best Locally Owned Restaurant of 2008, Callahan’s serves up great sandwiches, seafood specials and prime rib. Mon–Sat 10 a.m.–10 p.m. 791 Harbor Blvd., 850-837-6328. $ L d Capt. Dave’s on the Gulf Seafood. Enjoy delicious fresh seafood dishes. Open daily 4:30 p.m. 3796 Hwy. 98, 850-837-2627. $ d Ciao Bella Pizza Da Guglielmo Italian. Authentic Italian pizza, pasta, salads and more. Open daily 11 a.m. 29 E. Hwy. 98, Silver Sands, 850-654-3040. $$ L d The Crab Trap Seafood. Offering fresh seafood, steaks, salads and soups beachside. Mon–Thu 11 a.m.–9 p.m. Fri–Sat 11 a.m.– 10 p.m. 3500 E. Hwy. 98, 850-654-2722. $$ L d Dave’s Dogs American. When only a hot dog will do, Dave’s serves

it up right, grilling the bun on each side. Open Mon–Thu 10 a.m.–9 p.m. Fri 10 a.m.–10 p.m. Sun 11 a.m.–7 p.m. Located in HarborWalk Village, 10 Harbor Blvd., 850-240-3353. $ L d Dewey Destin’s HarborSide ★ Seafood. One of Destin’s most popular restaurants serves up charm and award-winning seafood in a quaint house overlooking the scenic Destin Harbor. Open daily 11 a.m.–8 p.m. 202 Harbor Blvd., 850-837-7525. $$ L d Dewey Destin Seafood Restaurant & Market Seafood. True local charm in an outdoor setting and some of the freshest seafood around. Open 11 a.m.– 8 p.m. 9 Calhoun Ave., 850-837-7575. $$$ B L d Donut Hole Bakery Cafe American. Head to the Donut Hole for an out-of-thisworld breakfast or savory lunch — don’t forget the cinnamon raisin bread. Open 24 hours. 635 E. Hwy. 98, 850-837-8824. $ B L Emerald Grande Resort Grande Vista bar and grill Seafood. Fresh seafood, steak, pasta, salads, sandwiches and more. Indoor and outdoor dining available. Full bar. Open daily 7 a.m.–10 p.m. Located in HarborWalk Village. 10 Harbor Blvd., next to the Marler Bridge, 850-337-8100. $$$ B L d Fishbar American. Wide array of seafood, steak and chicken dishes. Daily 11 a.m.–10 p.m. Sunday Brunch 10:30 a.m.– 2 p.m. 414 Harbor Blvd., 850-424-5566. $$ L d Fudpucker’s American. Burgers, sandwiches and specialties like the Fried Fudpucker (triggerfish). Open 11 a.m.–10 p.m. 20001 Emerald Coast Pkwy., 850-654-4200. $$ d Graffiti Italian. Traditional Italian favorites and house specialties like seafood pizza. Sun–Thu 5–9 p.m. Fri–Sat 5–10 p.m. 707 E. Hwy. 98, 850-654-2764. $$ d Gugliemo's Ciao Bella Pizza and Pasta Italian. Authentic Italian pizza, pasta, salads and more. Lunch 11 a.m.–2 p.m. Dinner begins at 4:30 p.m. 529 Highway 98. 850-654-9880. $$ L d Harbor Docks ★ American. This surf-and-turf restaurant offers breakfast, lunch and dinner. Open daily 5 a.m.–11 p.m. 538 E. Hwy. 98, 850-837-2506. $$ B L d Hard Rock Café American. Rock ’n’ roll, great drinks and mouthwatering menu. Open daily 11 a.m. 4260 Legendary Dr., Destin Commons, 850-654-3310. $

L d

HARRY T’S ★ Seafood. Lounge on the beautiful patio and watch the passing boats as you enjoy an endless variety of delicious dishes. Mon–Thu 11 a.m.–10 p.m. Fri–Sat 11 a.m.–11 p.m. Sun 10 a.m.–10 p.m. 46 Harbor Blvd., 850-654-4800. $$ B L d Jim ’N Nick’s Bar-B-Q ★ Barbecue. Southern smokehouse barbecue. Beer and wine. Open daily 11 a.m. 14073 Emerald Coast Pkwy., 850-351-1991. $ L d Johnny O’Quigley’s ★ American. Award-winning steak, seafood and barbecue in one of Destin’s favorite sports bars. Mon– Thu 11 a.m.–midnight. Fri–Sun 11 a.m.–1 a.m. Double Happy Hour Mon–Fri 3–6 p.m. and 10 p.m.–close. 34940 Emerald Coast Pkwy., 850-837-1015. $ L d Louisiana Lagniappe ★ Cajun and Seafood. View the Old Pass Lagoon while dining on steaks and a wide variety of fresh seafood. Open daily 5–10 p.m. 775 Gulf Shores Dr., 850-837-0881. $$ d Marina Café American. Gourmet pizzas, Creole and American cuisine. Open daily 5–10 p.m. 404 E. Hwy. 98, 850-837-7960. $$ d McGuire’s Irish Pub ★ Irish American. Drinks, steaks, burgers and fries and Irish fare. Open daily 11 a.m. 33 E. Hwy. 98, 850-654-0567. $$ L d

a taste for ... A Healthy Understanding. Emerald Coast consumers are making healthier food choices and, in short, eating defensively. This is evident by the relationships many are developing with their local farmers and markets. Shana Wolf of Off The Vine in Fort Walton Beach has seen this movement take shape and currently sponsors a series of “raw foodism” classes at Kitchenique in Destin. It is a lifestyle that promotes the consumption of unprocessed, uncooked organic food. These days, the words organic, natural, whole and clean are everywhere, but what do they really mean? Organic labeling requires that products bearing the label be made without the use of toxic pesticides and synthetic nitrogen fertilizers, antibiotics, synthetic hormones, genetic engineering or irradiation. They are closely monitored by the U.S. government and have strict guidelines. Food labeled “natural” contains no artificial ingredients, coloring or chemical preservatives and is minimally processed. Whole foods, however, are unprocessed and unrefined prior to consumption. Clean eating is similar, but represents a diet program, where you eat nothing processed, more whole grains and lean proteins. You don’t count calories. Knowledge is power, but remember to always read the label for more information. — Susan Benton EmeraldCoastMagazine.com April–May 2012

dining NOT JUST BAGELS ★ American. Bagels, breads, pastries, salads, soups and sandwiches. Mon–Fri 6 a.m.–3 p.m. Sat–Sun 7 a.m.–3 p.m. 4447 E. Commons Dr., Suite 112, 850-650-0465. $ B L Osaka ★ Japanese. Known for its sushi, but serves a variety of dishes including chicken, steak and seafood. Lunch 11 a.m.–2:30 p.m. Dinner 5–10:30 p.m. 34845 Emerald Coast Pkwy., 850-650-4688 or 850-650-4689. $$ L d Panera Bread ★ American. Fresh-baked breads and pastries, sandwiches and salads. Destin Commons and Sandestin. Mon–Thu 7 a.m.–9 p.m. Fri–Sat 7 a.m.–10 p.m. Sun 7 a.m.–8 p.m. 850-837-2486. $$ B L d Pepito’s ★ Mexican. Voted Best Mexican on the Emerald Coast, locals love Pepito’s for its authentic Mexican cuisine and mouthwatering margaritas. Happy Hour specials all day Mondays, including small rocks margaritas and all beer and well drinks for $1.99. Open daily 11 a.m.– 10 p.m. 757 E. Hwy. 98, 850-650-7734. $$ L d Poppy’s Crazy Lobster ★ Seafood. Relax with us on the beautiful Destin Harbor and enjoy the best seafood in town. Toast the setting sun with a Crazy Lobster Cooler or any number of fun cocktails. Open daily at 11 a.m. HarborWalk Village, Destin. 850-424-6744. L d Regatta Bay Golf and Country Club ★ American. Located inside Regatta Bay Golf & Country Club. Open to the public 11 a.m.–2 p.m. Variety of salads and sandwiches. Full bar. Specializing in on- and off-site catering including weddings, receptions and special events. 465 Regatta Bay Blvd., 850-337-8888. $B L d

Mark J. Katzenstein, M.D. FACC, FSCAI

Michael L. Yandel, M.D. FACC, FSCAI

Joseph A. Pedone, M.D. FACC, FACP, FSCAI

Juan Carlos Zarate, M.D. FACC, FSCAI

Marcello A. Borzatta, M.D. FACS

129 E. Redstone Ave., Suite A Crestview, FL 32539 850-682-7212 1032 Mar-Walt Dr., #110 Ft. Walton Beach, FL 32547 850-862-1753 552 Twin Cities Blvd., Suite A Niceville, FL 32578 850-279-4426

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Ruth’s Chris Steak House Steak and Seafood. New Orleans-inspired appetizers, desserts and award-winning wines. Mon–Sat 5:30–10 p.m. Sun 5:30–9 p.m. Silver Shells Resort. 1500 Emerald Coast Pkwy., 850-337-5108. $$$ d Sarah k’s gourmet ★ Gourmet Take-out. Chef-crafted, ready-to-heat cuisine. Jumbo lump crab cakes and fresh chicken salad are the house specialties. Open at 11 a.m. 34940 Hwy. 98, 850-269-0044. $ L d THE SHED BARBEQUE & BLUES JOINT Barbecue. Award-winning pecan wood-smoked barbecue in a no fuss, casual atmosphere overlooking the Destin Harbor. Open Sun–Thurs 11 a.m.–9 p.m., Fri–Sat 11 a.m.–11 p.m. 100 Harbor Blvd., 850-460-2271, catering/events 251-786-0696. $$ L d ZoËs Kitchen American. Healthy sandwiches and salads. Mon–Sat 11 a.m.–9 p.m. Sun 11 a.m.–7 p.m. Destin Commons, 850-650-6525. $ L d

Fort Walton Beach Aegean Restaurant Greek. Savor the flavors of the Mediterranean at this authentic Greek restaurant. Mon-Sat 10:30 a.m.–8:30 p.m. 1259 Eglin Pkwy., Shalimar 850-613-6120. $$ L d Bay Café French. Traditional French bistro café with seating overlooking the water. Lunch daily 11 a.m.–3 p.m., dinner Mon–Sat, 5 p.m.–10 p.m. 233 Alconese Ave. SE. 850-244-3550. $$ L d

and salads in a casually cool modern space. Tue–Sun 11 a.m.–9 p.m. 171 Brooks St. 850-226-4708. $$ L d The Black Pearl Steak and Seafood. Dig into some coconut shrimp and a juicy steak while enjoying a lovely view of the Gulf. Located in The Boardwalk on Okaloosa Island. Open daily 4 p.m. 1450 Miracle Strip Pkwy., 850-833-3016. $$ d Buffalo’s Reef Famous Wings ★ American. This restaurant is famous for hot wings and cold beer. Ask about the daily specials. Tue–Sat open at 10:30 a.m., Sun open at noon. 116 Eglin Pkwy. 850243-9463. $ L d Fat Clemenza’s ★ Italian. Feel like part of the family as you enjoy homemade classical Italian cuisine. Lunch Mon–Fri 11 a.m.–2 p.m. Dinner Mon–Wed 5–9:30 p.m., Thu–Sat 5–10 p.m. 99 Eglin Pkwy. 850-243-0707. L d Fudpucker’s American. Burgers, sandwiches and specialties like the Fried Fudpucker (triggerfish). Open daily 11 a.m. 108 Santa Rosa Blvd., Okaloosa Island, 850-243-3800. $$ L d Magnolia Grill Steak, Seafood and Italian. Steak, seafood, pasta, soups, salads and desserts. Lunch Mon–Fri 11 a.m.– 2 p.m. Dinner Mon–Sat, open at 5 p.m. Closed Sun. 157 SE Brooks St., 850-302-0266. $$ L d Old Bay Steamer Seafood. Fresh, steamed and grilled seafood served in a lively atmosphere. Dinner served daily from 4 p.m. No reservations. 102 Santa Rosa Blvd., 850-664-2795. $$$ d

Benjarong Thai Cuisine & BBQ Thai and Barbecue. Barbecue, chicken, ribs, steak and spicy Thai food. Lunch and dinner Mon–Sat 11 a.m.– 9 p.m. 251 Mary Esther Blvd., 850-362-0290. $$ L d

Pandora’s Steak and Seafood. Early evening specials weekdays 5–6 p.m. Happy Hour weekdays 5–7 p.m. Weekdays 5–10 p.m. Weekends 5–11 p.m. 1226 Santa Rosa Blvd., 850-244-8669. $$$ d

Ali's Bistro American. Seafood, steak, pasta, chicken, veal, sandwiches

Pranzo Italian Ristorante Italian. The Montalto family has been serving classic

and contemporary Italian cuisine in Fort Walton Beach for nearly 30 years. Dinner Mon–Sat, 5 p.m. 1222 Santa Rosa Blvd. 850-244-9955. $ d

Marsala, fresh fish, seafood and grilled steaks. Open Sun 11 a.m.–10 p.m. Mon–Thu 4–10:30 p.m. Fri–Sat 4–11:30 p.m. 10562 W. Hwy. 98, 850-837-1140. $$ d

Sealand Steak and Seafood. Serving American cuisine as well as Thai offerings in a homey atmosphere. Lunch Sun 11 a.m. until. Dinner Tues–Sat from 4:30 p.m. 47 SE Miracle Strip Pkwy., 850-244-0044. $$$ B d

Fajitas Grill Mexican. The freshest ingredients and best-tasting Mexican food in Northwest Florida. Try one of our many flavored margaritas. Open Sun–Thu 11 a.m.–9:30 p.m. Fri–Sat 11 a.m.–10:30 p.m. 12889 Hwy. 98., 850-269-7788. $ L d

Staff’s Steak, Seafood and Pasta. In operation for more than 100 years, Staff’s is the oldest family-operated Florida restaurant and a local favorite serving homemade American cuisine in a casual, rustic atmosphere. Open daily for dinner from 5 p.m. 24 Miracle Strip Pkwy., 850-243-3482. $$ d

Grayton Beach Another Broken Egg café ★ Breakfast. Breakfast all day, plus sandwiches, patty melts, specials, soups, salads and desserts. Open 7:30 a.m.–2 p.m. Closed Mondays. (Open Memorial and Labor days.) 51 Grayton Uptown Cir., 850-231-7835. $ B Pandora’s Steak and Seafood. Warm, traditional steakhouse with early evening specials. Weekdays 5–10 p.m. Weekends 5–11 p.m. 63 DeFuniak St., 850-231-4102. $$ d

Fat Clemenza’s ★ Italian. Feel like part of the family as you enjoy homemade classical Italian cuisine. Lunch Mon–Fri 11 a.m.–2 p.m. Dinner Mon–Wed 5–9:30 p.m., Thu–Sat 5–10 p.m. Holiday Plaza/Hwy. 98, 850-650-5980. $$ L d Finz Beachside Grille American. Wide range of seafood and American dishes. Catering available. Open seasonally. Call for hours. Beachside at Sandestin, 850-267-4800. $$ L Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar ★ Steak and More. This award-winning restaurant offers prime steaks, chops, chicken, seafood, fresh salads and a

variety of unique sides and desserts served in a comfortable but elegant atmosphere. Featuring 100 wines by the glass. Open Mon–Thu 5–10 p.m. Fri–Sat 5–11 p.m. Sun 4–9 p.m. 600 Grand Blvd., 850-269-0830. $$ d Lillie’s On Pigs Alley Barbecue. For lip-smacking good barbecue, try Lillie’s sandwiches, ribs, beef or chicken. The restaurant won the Barbecue World Championship in Memphis in 2007. Open Tue–Sat 11 a.m.–7 p.m. 9848 W. Hwy. 98, 850654-3911. $ L d Lin’s Asian Cuisine Asian. Chef Qun Lin whips up steaming portions of your favorite Chinese and Southeast Asian dishes. Open Mon–Thu 10:30 a.m.–9 p.m. Fri–Sat 10:30 a.m.– 9:30 p.m. Sun noon–9 p.m. 130 Scenic Gulf Dr., Suite 5B, 850-424-5888. $ L d Marina Bar and Grill American. Seafood, po-boys, burgers, salads overlooking the Baytowne Marina and Choctawhatchee Bay. You catch 'em we cook 'em service. Open daily 11

on the menu

Picolo’s restaurant Seafood. Dine on delicious fresh seafood while listening to live music. Open daily 11 a.m.–3 p.m. and 5–10 p.m. 70 Hotz Ave., 850-231-1008. $$ L d Red Bar ★ American. A favorite among locals, visitors and celebrities and a must-visit when in Grayton Beach. Kick back on the funky furniture and listen to live music while enjoying great food and cocktails — especially the award-winning Bloody Mary. Breakfast 7–10:30 a.m. Lunch 11 a.m.–3 p.m. Dinner 5–10 p.m. Bar open 11 a.m.–11 p.m., Fri–Sat 11 a.m.– midnight. Cash or check only, no credit cards. 70 Hotz Ave., 850-231-1008. $$ B L d Trattoria Borago Italian. Enjoy a balsamic-laced pork tenderloin or panseared grouper from the open kitchen. Open 6 p.m. daily. 80 E. Hwy. 30A, Grayton Beach, 850-231-9167. $$ d

Miramar Beach Aegean Restaurant Greek. Sip an ouzo at the beautiful stone bar before savoring the flavors of the Mediterranean at this authentic Greek restaurant. Breakfast 8–11 a.m. Lunch 11 a.m.–4 p.m. Dinner 4–9 p.m. 11225 Emerald Coast Pkwy., 850-460-2728. $$ B L d Another Broken Egg café – On the Bay ★ Breakfast. Breakfast all day, plus sandwiches, patty melts, specials, soups, salads and desserts. Open daily from 7 a.m.–3 p.m. The Village of Baytowne Wharf, 850-622-2050. $ B Beef ‘O’ Brady’s Family Sports Pub American. Wings, sandwiches, salads, burgers. 24 TVs, plus a kids’ game room. Open Mon–Sat 11 a.m.–11 p.m. Sun noon–10 p.m. Happy hour Mon–Fri 3–7 p.m. 9375 E. Hwy. 98 (The Market Shops at Sandestin), 850-837-9710. $$$

Photo by Scott Holstein

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Bistro Bijoux ★ Steak and Seafood. Coastal cuisine with a New Orleans flair. Fresh seafood daily. Featuring our signature dish — “Black Skillet” filet mignon topped with a tempura-fried lobster tail. Open daily 5–10 p.m. Village of Baytowne Wharf, 850-622-0760. $$$ d Cantina Laredo ★ Mexican. Boasting a contemporary décor and fiery flavor, the new addition to Grand Boulevard offers gourmet twists on Mexican favorites. Save room for dessert, and check out the Sunday brunch. Sun–Thu 11 a.m.–10 p.m. Fri–Sat 11 a.m.–11 p.m. 585 Grand Blvd., 850-654-5649. $$ B L d Carrabba’s italian grill Italian. Flavorful dishes, including calamari, chicken

hen you are not sure what to order when dining out next, try these menu items from all along the Emerald Coast that we have tasted and enjoyed recently.

Appetizer

98 Bar-B-Que, Santa Rosa Beach

We have a tasty nugget for you. The Deep Fried Creamed Corn Nuggets at 98 Bar-

B-Que deserve a score of 100 on a scale of 1 to 10. We’re not sure how creamed corn becomes deep fried, nor do we care. All we do care about is that it is never taken off the menu. $4.99

Lunch

Racetrack Café, Fort Walton Beach

We want to race back to the Racetrack Café for another bowl of Thai Chicken & Lemon Grass Soup. This Thai dish includes chicken, mushrooms, lemon leaves, lemongrass, celery and green onions and is served with a side of steamed white rice. The red curry

spices and zesty lemon grass definitely put a kick in our step. $7.50

Dinner

Tradewinds Restaurant, Niceville

We did not want to trade dinner when we ordered the Mediterraneo, a large ceramic bowl brimming with fresh Gulf shrimp, sea scallops, calamari, mussels, fish in a tasty orange (half marinara and half wine) white sauce served over linguini. The dinner also included a fresh green salad and crusty bread (great for soaking up the sauce). Delicioso! $19.95

Dessert

P.F. Chang’s, Miramar Beach

One dessert that is definitely disarming is the Great Wall of Chocolate at P.F. Chang’s in Grand Boulevard at Sandestin. Even a Chinese emperor might flinch when faced with six layers of frosted chocolate cake, topped with semisweet chocolate chips, served with fresh berries and raspberry sauce. The Chocolate Dynasty has a quite a ring to it, don’t you think? $7.95 EmeraldCoastMagazine.com April–May 2012

dining a.m.–7 p.m. Breakfast Sat–Sun 8–11 a.m. Kitchen closed Mon–Tue. Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort, 9300 Emerald Coast Pkwy. West. 850-267-7778. $ B L d Marlin Grill Steak and Seafood. Fresh seafood, steaks, salads and appetizers served inside or outside. Open nightly at 5 p.m. Village of Baytowne Wharf, 850-351-1990. $$$ L d The Melting Pot Fondue. Dip into something different and enjoy an interactive, hands-on, four-course dining experience with a cheese fondue, salad, entrée and chocolate fondue dessert. Open Sun–Thu 5–10 p.m. Fri–Sat 5–11 p.m. 11394 Hwy. 98., 850-269-2227. $$$ d

Mitchell’s Fish Market ★ Seafood. Chef-driven dishes such as Cedar Roasted Atlantic Salmon or Hoisin-Glazed Yellow Fin Tuna. Lunch Mon–Sat 11 a.m.–4 p.m. Sun 11 a.m.–3 p.m. Dinner Mon–Thu 4–10 p.m. Fri–Sat 4–11 p.m. Sun 3–9 p.m. Grand Boulevard Sandestin, 850-650-2484. $$ L d P.F. Chang’s China Bistro ★ Asian. Sample crunchy lettuce wraps or Chinese favorites like Kung Pao Chicken in a chic atmosphere. Open Sun–Thu 11 a.m.–10 p.m. Fri–Sat 11 a.m.–11 p.m. 10640 Grand Blvd., 850-269-1806. $$ L d Poppy’s Seafood Factory Seafood. Enjoy fresh seafood, steak and poultry dishes with a view of the bay. Open 11 a.m.–9 p.m. daily. Village of Baytowne Wharf, 850-351-1996. $$$ L d

Royal Orchid ★ Thai. Escape to Thailand at this authentic Thai restaurant. Sink into a traditional sunken table surrounded by pillows or dine American style at a table or booth. Thu–Tue 11 a.m.–9:30 p.m. Closed Wed. 11275 Emerald Coast Pkwy., 850-650-2555. $$ L d Rum Runners American. Caribbean/coastal/Mediterranean menu with sandwiches, seafood, steaks, chicken and pasta. Open daily for lunch and dinner. Village of Baytowne Wharf, 850-267-8117. $$ L d Seagar’s Prime Steaks and Seafood ★ Steak and Seafood. Premium steak, fresh seafood and caviar. Open 6 p.m. daily. Hilton Sandestin. 4000 S. Sandestin Blvd., 850-622-1500. $$$ d Tommy Bahama’s Restaurant & Bar ★ Caribbean. Get a taste of the islands with jerk spices, fresh fish and the best desserts on the coast, as voted by readers of Emerald Coast Magazine. Open Sun–Thu 11 a.m.–11 p.m. Fri–Sat 11 a.m.–midnight. 525 Grand Blvd., 850-654-1743. $$ L d Vin’Tij Wine Boutique & Bistro ★ American. Traditional favorites and unique house dishes. Open daily 11 a.m.–midnight. 10859 W. Emerald Coast Pkwy., Suite 103, 850-650-9820. $ L d

Niceville/Valparaiso Beef ‘O’ Brady’s Family Sports Pub American. Wings, sandwiches, salads, burgers. Open Mon–Sat 11 a.m.–11 p.m. Sun noon–10 p.m. Happy hour Mon–Fri 3–7 p.m. 4540 E. Hwy. 20, 850-897-3964. $ L d

Compass Rose Restaurant and Bar Caribbean. Waterfront dining overlooking Tom's Bayou. The cuisine is coastal with a Caribbean West Indies flair. Enjoy Happy Hour, daily specials and Sunday brunch. Tue–Thur 11 a.m.–9 p.m., Fri 11 a.m.–10 p.m., Sat 4–10 p.m., Sun 10 a.m.–3 p.m. 303 Glen Ave. 850-389-2125. $$ L d One 20 A Modern Bistro American. Modern American Cuisine specializing in seafood, steaks, and local fresh produce.Lunch: Tue– Fri 11 a.m.–3 p.m. Dinner: Tue–Sat 5–9 p.m., Brunch: Sun 11 a.m.–3 p.m. Closed Monday. 120 Partin Drive North, Niceville. 850-729-2120. $$, B L d Pepitos ★ Mexican. Locals love the authentic Mexican cuisine, margaritas and allday Monday Happy Hour special. Open daily 11 a.m.–10 p.m. 4585 E Hwy 20, Suite 100, Niceville. 850-279-4949. $$ L d TradeWinds Italian. A cozy favorite among locals serving heaping portions from old family recipes. Enjoy a number of pasta variations as well as seafood, chicken, veal, steak and thin crust pizza. Expansive wine and beer list. Reservations required. Open Tue–Sat 5 p.m. 205 Government St., 850-678-8299. $$ d

Santa Rosa Beach

98 Bar-B-Que Barbecue. Four generations have perfected Southern barbecue served with your favorite sides. Lunch and dinner, 11 a.m.–8 p.m. Mon–Sat. 5008 W. Hwy. 98. 850-622-0679. $ L d Amore Pizzeria Italian/American. Serving gourmet pizzas, wings, salads and panini sandwiches in a family-friendly atmosphere. Mon–Thur 11 a.m.–9 p.m., Fri–Sat 11 a.m.– 10 p.m., Sun noon–9 p.m. 95 Laura Hamilton Blvd. in Gulfplace (CR 393 and 30A), 850-267-2202. $ L d Basmati’s Asian Cuisine & Sushi Asian. Asian dishes and full sushi bar. Open 4 p.m. daily. 3295 W. Hwy. 30A, 850-267-3028. $$ d Café Tango American. Seafood, poultry and pasta served with

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specialty sauces. Homemade desserts. Open Tue–Sun 5–10 p.m. 14 Vicki St., 850-267-0054. $$$ d Fire American. With New Orleans natives in the kitchen, it’s no surprise that this casual fine-dining restaurant is hot. Lunch Thu–Fri 11:30 a.m.–2:30 p.m. Dinner Mon– Thu 6–9 p.m., Fri–Sat 6–10 p.m. Brunch Sun 11 a.m. 7 Town Canter Loop, 850-267-9020. $$ L d Fish Out of Water Restaurant Continental. Southern coastal cuisine with an Asian flair: tuna, crab cakes, shrimp and scallops. 5:30–10 p.m. daily. Located in the WaterColor Inn, 850-534-5050. $$$ d Louis Louis American. The only thing that isn’t over the top at Louis Louis is the menu pricing. The Moulin Rouge-inspired interior décor is outrageously wonderful. Dine outside or in. The menu has six tasty items, from crab cakes, panned chicken, blackened fish and a few pastas. Mon– Sun 5–10 p.m. 35 Mussett Bayou Rd., 850-267-1500. $ d Vue on 30a American. Seafood, beef, poultry, lamb, veal, pastas, soups and bisques. Open Tues–Fri 11 a.m.–2:30 p.m., Wed–Sat 5–9 p.m. 4801 W. Hwy. 30A, 850-267-2305. $$ L d

Seaside & Seagrove Beach Angelina’s Pizza & Pasta Italian. Authentic homemade pizza pie and Italian dishes in a casual atmosphere. Lunch and dinner daily: 11 a.m.–9:30 p.m. 4005 E. Hwy. 30A. 850-231-2500. $ L

Dedicated to bringing you a delicious experience! Italian cuisine with a family-friendly atmosphere — we offer wings, salads, panini, and gourmet pizzas topped with the freshest ingredients. We happily host or cater any event or private party. Join us on our covered balcony (across from Ed Walline Park in Gulf Place) for an array of delicious daily specials. d

Bud & Alley’s Restaurant American. Serving fresh seafood, steak and vegetarian options. Open 11:30 a.m. Mon–Fri. Roof bar open 11:30 p.m.–2 a.m. in summer. 2236 E. Hwy. 30A, 850-231-5900. $$$ L d

Located at Gulfplace Intersection of CR 393 and Hwy 30A Santa Rosa Beach, FL • (850) 267-2202 • amore-pizzeria.com

Café Thirty-A Seafood. Seafood, lamb, duck, filet mignon and pizza. Open daily 5 p.m. 3899 E. Hwy. 30A, 850-231-2166. $$ d Crush American. Crush features an extensive wine menu, sushi and small plates. Open daily for lunch and dinner, noon–10 p.m. 25 Central Sq., 850-468-0703. $$ L d Great SOuthern Café Southern. Jim Shirley serves up Southern comfort food with a twist. Open daily for breakfast 8–11 a.m., lunch 11 a.m.–4 p.m., dinner 4–11:30 p.m. 83 Central Sq., 850-231-7327. $$ B L d La Botana Tapas. Small plates of Latin-inspired cuisine served in a casual but elegant atmosphere. Wine bar. Lunch and dinner Mon–Fri 4–11 p.m., Sat–Sun 11 a.m.–11 p.m. 4281 E. Hwy. 30A, 850-231-0716. $$ L d La Cocina Mexican Grill & Bar Mexican. Traditional Tex-Mex with a coastal twist. Open daily 11 a.m.–3 p.m. and 5–9 p.m. Bar open until 10 p.m. 10343 E. Hwy. 30A, 850-231-4021. $$ L d Old Florida Fish House and Bar Seafood. Rustic seafood restaurant featuring a new take on old seafood favorites. Full bar. Dinner daily 5 p.m. 5235 Hwy. 30A. 850-534-3045. $$ d V Seagrove Restaurant Seafood. Chef David Cunningham serves up fresh seafood and produce that is locally sourced in a resort casual atmosphere. Open Tue–Sat at 6 p.m. Closed Sundays. 2743 E. County Highway 30A, Seagrove. 850-468-0973. $$$ d Seagrove Village Market Café Steak and Seafood. Enjoy surf-and-turf and a glass of wine, then shop for gifts and souvenirs in the adjacent gift shop. Open 10:30 a.m.–8:30 p.m. daily. 3004 S. County Rd. 395, 850-231-5736. $$ L d ec EmeraldCoastMagazine.com April–May 2012

the last word

The U.S. Department of Defense estimates that approximately 15 million Americans are former or current military "brats."

Remembering Our Little Patriots

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every PCS, or permanent change of station. With each move, something is lost yet something is also gained. For military children, there’s little hope of living in the same neighborhood while growing up. But there’s great hope of exploring the world. For military families, “home” isn’t a point on a map; it’s a place inside your heart. On average, military children attend six to nine different schools. With repeated deployments, navigating good-byes and reunions is a continual challenge, as are missed milestones like birthdays, games, recitals and more. Sometimes, deployment results in a brat-related PCS — requiring children to change homes and schools until their deployed parent returns. According to the American Forces Press Service, more than 900,000 children have had one or both parents deploy. Those numbers are made up of “active duty brats” and “suddenly brats.” In record numbers, reservists have deployed to war, leaving behind their suddenly military families. Nearby or apart from military installations, support is essential for a hopeful journey. The Month of the Military Child is a perfect opportunity to lend support for our Little Patriots during deployment and beyond. Look at life through a child’s eyes, and put yourself in their shoes. Challenge your community to make a greater difference for our military families. Our Little Patriots deserve the spotlight for their adaptability, worldliness and patriotism — honor our nation’s youngest heroes today! ec

Photo By Jessica James Photography courtesy Destin Commons

ere on the Emerald Coast, we’re blessed with a tremendous military presence. The arrival of the Army’s 7th Special Forces has brought even greater awareness of our troops’ continual sacrifices. From restaurants to retail shops to events, our community shines a spotlight on supporting the troops. The month of April is a time to shine the spotlight on the youngest members of the military family. In 1986, then-Secretary of Defense Casper Weinberger designated April as the Month of the Military Child. As we celebrate the 26th anniversary of this event, it should spark communities across the nation to recognize our youngest heroes — our Little Patriots. The designation of the Month of the Military Child in 1986 also marked my second brat’s birth at Wright Patterson Air Force Base. Brat is an affectionate term that’s sometimes mistaken as derogatory by civilians. Yet, for military families it’s an admirable term — symbolic of adaptability, worldliness and patriotism. From birth onward, brats absorb military structure, jargon and pride into their fiber. Given my military service, my husband’s military career and our children’s frequent transitions, we assigned an acronym for BRAT to symbolize hopeful outcomes: BRAT (Be Relocated And Transformed)! While some brats dig in their heels and detest an impending move, others spread their wings and embrace opportunity for change. My brats were polar opposites with

By Maryann Makekau

Be Who You Are

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