Emerald Coast Magazine December 2012 – January 2013 Issue

+

The Emer ald Coast Maga zine

Lift Your Spirit $3.95

DEC 2012-JAN 2013

www.emeraldcoastmagazine.com A product of Rowland Publishing, Inc.

Your holiday shopping is a wrap with our Holiday Gift Guide

From recharging your fitness routine and rebooting your career to adopting fine art and championing children's causes, we fill this issue with inspired stories to help you reinvent your best you!

THE ART OF THE DEAL How to adopt free art and snag amazing deals

HOPE HEALS A spotlight on five local children’s charities

WIGGING OUT IS IN! The easiest way to transform your look, life

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com December 2012–January 2013

3

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com December 2012–January 2013

3

Be Who You Are

HAIR EXTENSIONS • SPECIAL OCCASION HAIR BRAZILIAN BLOWOUT • COLOR CORRECTION • AIRBRUSH MAKEUP XTREME LASHES • FACIALS Toni&Guy trained Stylists • Specialized Wilma Schumann facials & products Harbor Boulevard, Suite 9 • www.blissindestin.com • (850) 424-5444 2012 Top Salon http://www.facebook.com/DestinBlissSalon Located immediately next door to the Donut Hole in Destin

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com December 2012–January 2013

3

We would like to Thank Rowland Publishing for their continued support of our League. Without their support we would not have such a great impact on our community through our signature projects and programs.

Thank you for being our partner in building a better community!

Our fundraising efforts go to support our signature projects and various programs throughout our community, which include: Child Clothing Project — We have been clothing children on the Emerald Coast through this signature project for 34 years! This is our longest running event where we partner with several community organizations to provide clothing and a day of fun to underprivIleged children of our community.

Back to the Books Bash — A Backpack and school supply drive to assist the Emerald Coast Children’s Advocacy Center Done in a Day Projects — Partnering with organizations such as Habitat for Humanity, Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation, Horizons, Boys and Girls Club of the Emerald Coast Kids in the Kitchen — A program to help fight childhood obesity by providing classes at local Boys and Girls Clubs

12 SE Miracle Strip Pkwy, Fort Walton Beach, FL 32548 850-862-2665 • jlec.org

Junior League of the Emerald Coast

4 December 2012–January 2013

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com

contents

The Emerald Coast Magazine December 2012 + January 2013

in the e.c.

Ann and George Hartley gave up the fast-paced corporate world of Dallas to become first-time restauranteurs and the very first tenants in the Town Center of Alys Beach. They are pictured here in George’s at Alys Beach, one of three Emerald Coast restaurants they own and operate.

15 Snapshot Bodacious Bo Casey has designs on the EC. 16 Chat These two personal chefs dish about healthy lifestyle choices.

20 Well-Worded We remember Pearl Harbor Day with a look at a memoir by B17 Bombardier Kenneth Tucker.

22 Personality Cosmetologist Cheyenne Isenhour tells us why “wigging out” is always in!

happenings 29 Spotlight O Christmas Tree …

Festival!

Photos by KANSAS PITTS (p. 42), SCOTT HOLSTEIN (p. 16) AND JACQUELINE WARD (P. 56)

30 Culture Local artists outline exactly how to snag great deals on original art.

32 Calendar Celebrate the season by attending local concerts, art exhibits, theater productions and festivals.

35 Social Studies Look who was out and about in the EC.

the good life 55 Eudaimonia How you, too, can lead a “jet set” life on the EC. 56 Habitat Local designers tip us off to the Top 12 Holiday Trends for 2012.

59 Gardening Give the gift that keeps on growing.

F E ATUR Es

42

60 In Motion Give your fitness routine a lift with the latest craze — aerial yoga!

Reinventing Lives

ow faith, love and tragedy compelled these H locals to rewrite their life stories

63 Flavor EC Magazine readers share their favorite holiday brunch recipes, traditions and tips.

By Danielle Buenrostro

48

The Season for Giving Hope

66 On the Menu This Fried Green Tomato sandwich is pure Southern envy.

Our Emerald Coast children deserve our best

By Anne Schultz

16

67 Dining Let us guide you to savor the flavors of the Emerald Coast.

56

A word with You 8 From the Publisher 10 Editor’s Note 13 Contributors 74 The Last Word

2012 Holiday Gift Guide || page 26 Follow us @emeraldcoastmag

Like us at facebook.com/emeraldcoast

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com December 2012–January 2013

5

Vol. 13, No. 6 December 2012–January 2013 The Emerald Coast Magazine

President/Publisher

Brian E. Rowland

EDITORIAL

Director of Editorial Services Linda Kleindienst Editor Zandra Wolfgram

Steven J. Clark, MD Board Certified Plastic Surgeon

Staff Writer Jason Dehart Contributing Writers Stacey May Brady, Danielle Buenrostro, Pam Forrester, Lis King, Mary Leslie, Andi Mahoney, Thomas J. Monigan, Audrey Post, Anne Schultz, Zandra Wolfgram, Otmar Yakaboski Proofreader Melinda Lanigan

CREATIVE

Creative Director Lawrence Davidson Assistant Creative Director Saige Roberts Graphic Designers Jennifer Ekrut, Lizzie Moore, Laura Patrick, Shruti Shah

OUR HOLIDAY GIFT TO YOU $50 Off a Botox or Filler Treatment Botox Group Discount — Call Office for Details Gift Certificates Available Skin Care Treatments Jane Iredale Cosmetics Environ Skin Care HURRY! SPECIAL ENDS 12/31/12

Staff Photographer Scott Holstein Contributing Photographers Rhonda Chaloupka, Kay Phelan, Kansas Pitts, Howard Robinson, Shelly Swanger, Jacqueline Ward, Steve Wells, Terry Voyles Photography, Allison Yii

SALES, MARKETING & EVENTS

Director of New Business Development Daniel Parisi Marketing and Media Development Manager McKenzie Burleigh Traffic Coordinator Lisa Sostre Sales Executives Rhonda Chaloupka, Darla Harrison, Tracy Mulligan, Chris St. John

OPERATIONS

Director of Operations Emily Bohnstengel Production Manager/Network Administrator Daniel Vitter Client Service Representative/Media Sponsorships Caroline Conway Staff Accountant Genevia Trombley Receptionists Kimber Fraley, Phyllis Kennedy, Jazmeen Sule

WEB

Emerald Coast Magazine emeraldcoastmagazine.com facebook.com/emeraldcoast Rowland Publishing rowlandpublishing.com

SUBSCRIPTIONS

One Year (6 issues) is $30 Call (850) 878-0554 or go online to emeraldcoastmagazine.com Single copies are $3.95 Purchased at Barnes and Noble in Destin and Books-A-Million in Destin and at Sun Plaza in Mary Esther.

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

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.

Copyright December 2012 Emerald Coast Magazine Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is prohibited.

Proud member of the Florida Magazine Association

6 December 2012–January 2013

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com

FOR ALL YOUR FLOORING NEEDS!

296 South Holiday Rd. Miramar Beach, Fl 32550 (telephone) 850.650.1039 (Fax) 850.650.0938 infinityfloors.com

HOLIDAY DRESSES Starting at $29.00

Destin Commons t 4313 Legendary Dr. t 850.654.2752 t www.ShopPrivateGallery.com EmeraldCoastMagazine.com December 2012–January 2013

7

from the publisher The ‘Best’ Time of the Year

Everyone has a time of year that they like best. For me, it’s fall. And it’s been a great one.

That’s a time when the tourists have gone home and the locals reclaim the roads where for months past they sat for an hour while trying to get from Grand Boulevard to Destin Commons. (And, on a rainy day, the wait was even longer.)

I think few would argue that during this season the beaches of Northwest Florida are also at their best. One can sit out for hours at a time, enjoying the feel of the Gulf breezes while looking out at the true emerald green waters — without feeling the searing heat of months past.

It’s a time also when the fishing tends to be the best, when grouper, snapper, cobia and other great-eating species are abundant. Each day, the sun shines on us for fewer hours. When it’s darker in the morning, staying in bed is easier and getting up each day is a little more difficult.

And when the time changes, especially here in the Central Time Zone, the darkness of evening comes sooner each day until by December it’s often dark before 5 p.m.

The excitement of college football permeates the air and the excitement builds among fans of Alabama, Auburn, Florida and Florida State whose cars pass by with their alma mater’s flags snapping in the breeze. People proudly wear their school shirts. On Mondays you see them elated or deflated, depending on how their school performed on the field during the weekend. (Although, I must say, some grown adults take a win or a loss a bit too seriously.)

When the first cool breezes from the North arrive, does that feel good or what? Especially after five long months of 90 degree-plus temperatures accompanied by high humidity. Our animals are more frisky, runners and bikers extend their workouts and most everyone has a little more zip in their step.

Festivals abound in the community and the region, children take on new personalities for Halloween, families travel and get together for Thanksgiving and the anticipation of the holiday season begins to build — especially when the first holiday decorations begin showing up in stores as early as September, which I must say is just unnecessary.

Another reason I feel fall is the best season is because we put on our annual party to celebrate our Best of the Emerald Coast event, which this year saw record crowds turn out at Grand Boulevard to mingle, listen to music and meet with our Best of award winners while sharing food and libations.

I want to express my sincere appreciation to the Junior League of the Emerald Coast, which has embraced our Best of event and helped turn it into one of their signature fundraising events of the year. Their passion for excellence and attention to organization and detail has created an event with an unparalleled spirit of magic and class. We are proud that this event has helped raise hundreds of thousands of dollars for the non-profit community over the years.

I would be remiss if I didn’t say a few words about the two copycat events that have sprung up over the past couple of years. It is said that imitation is the greatest form of flattery, but in this case, all I can say is … really? Is this the best you an do?

For those of you who have supported EC Magazine’s Best of event over the years, we thank you and hope to host you for many more.

Wishing you and your family all the best this holiday season and during 2013!

on the cover

Aerialist, artist and nearly ageless Diane Page of Santa Rosa Beach gives her fitness routine a boost with dynamic aerial yoga moves performed at Destin Pilates Center on hammocks and silks. Photography by Scott Holstein

VOL. 13 NO. 6

— Brian Rowland browland@rowlandpublishing.com

+

THE EMER ALD COAST MAGA ZINE

LIFT YOUR SPIRIT

oys ter perpe tual subma riner date

oyster perpetual and submariner are trademarks.

13Hilton_McCaskill&Co.indd 1

8 December 2012–January 2013

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM DECEMBER 2012-JANUARY 2013

rolex

Lift Your Spirit

Your holiday shopping is a wrap with our Holiday Gift Guide

From recharging your fitness routine and rebooting your career to adopting fine art and championing children's causes, we fill this issue with inspired stories to help you reinvent your best you!

THE ART OF THE DEAL How to adopt free art and snag amazing deals

HOPE HEALS A spotlight on five local children’s charities

WIGGING OUT IS IN! The easiest way to transform your look, life

10/29/12 10:38 AM

Photo by Scott Holstein

“Addictive”

“ ”

“Irresistible”

PEOPLE

US�WEEKLY

VOGUE

THIS SEASON, THEY HAVE EVERYTHING TO LOSE.

SUN JAN 6

pbs.org/downton

Funding for MASTERPIECE is provided by

8PM A Carnival/Masterpiece Co-Production

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com December 2012–January 2013

9

editor’s note I love the beginning of a brand new year. Every 12 months we all get a new lease on life, don’t we? I know I eagerly await the chance to turn the page on the calendar to gain a fresh start. In addition to cleaning out closets, it’s the perfect time of year to take stock of some personal inventory. Time to toss out old, bad habits and embrace all things new and optimistic.

In a sense, it’s a great excuse to “reboot.” In this edition of EC magazine, we have packed it full of stories that celebrate doing just that. In one of our feature stories, for example, we meet several local Emerald Coasters who didn’t wait for the New Year to ring out for them to reinvent their lives.

With each dramatic career change, they created a new beginning for their families and put their lives on a brand new, albeit scary, path. These brave and inspiring trailblazers tell us how and why they changed their life course.

Speaking of impacting lives, the Emerald Coast is fortunate to be filled with many incredible charities dedicated to improving and supporting the lives of children. These important organizations are there when the chips are down, giving our most vulnerable and innocent second chances every day. This compelling feature story spotlights several deserving organizations and tells you exactly how you can take action and get involved this holiday season (and all year round) to help those too young to fight and fend for themselves.

Having a good lease on life means making healthy choices. In our Chat column, you’ll meet two talented and knowledgeable local chefs dedicated to dishing up delicious and healthy choices for their lucky clients each day. And for mental and physical balance we get off the floor and soar to new heights with In Motion to look at an exciting new fitness trend on the rise — aerial yoga!

Sometimes we need to make things a little easy on ourselves. So we corralled local interior design experts to give you a handy list of Top 12 holiday trends for 2012. And we get the inside scoop from cosmetologist and shop owner Cheyenne Isenhour, who tells us why it’s OK, and even fashionable, to “wig out” from time to time.

We hope your time is spent living and loving well. Here’s to celebrating the season … and living your best life.

— Zandra Wolfgram editor@emeraldcoastmagazine.com

Special Note: Thank you to all of you who offered such heartfelt kind words and support in response to my story (The Last Word, October/November 2012). I must have been experiencing a touch of “chemo brain” while writing it, because I failed to acknowledge integral caregivers on my medical team: the Emerald Coast Cancer Center. Their intelligence, experience, compassion and doses of good humor are surely why I lived to tell my story at all. Special thanks to Dr. Henry Hsiang, Stephanie, Angie, Linda and especially Olivia. If anyone can make cancer “liveable” it’s you!

10 December 2012–January 2013

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com

editor’s picks A Good Read and Deed Life is Good is one of my favorite brands.

How can you not love a company whose mission is to be optimistic? We have enjoyed their signature hardcover book “Life is Good: Simple Words from Jake and Rocket,” which pairs words of wit and wisdom with the company’s iconic stick figure graphics ($20 at Destin Commons).

All proceeds from the book purchase go to the Life is Good Kids Foundation, established to help children facing unfair challenges.

For more info on this worthy cause and cool company, visit lifeisgood.com.

Bubbling Over With Excitement Here’s to December! We toast this festive month because it means the annual Champagne Walkabout at Chan’s Wine World in Destin is here. This year’s event is Sunday, Dec. 9, from 1 to 4 p.m. (see the EC calendar for full details).

Loco Over Shopping Local This holiday season why not make a commitment to shop local? Many Emerald Coast area shops make it inviting (and even more affordable) by extending discounts and specials to locals. They know we are here to support them long after the tourist season is over. Enjoy excellent service and up to 20 percent off at some of my favorite shops: The Zoo Gallery (save even more at the Zoo Gallery Outlet on Airport Road in Destin), Today’s Boutique in Destin and Ivey Ladies Boutique in Fort Walton Beach.

A Wink Gets the Nod Little black dress (check). Red lipstick (check). Lush lashes (check and check)! This holiday season the eyes have it with glamorous eyelash options.

Avantgarde Salon does a beautiful job of applying Xtreme Lashes Eyelash Extensions, which look completely natural.

If you really want to be eye catching, why not take yours over the top? We love the added drama from self-adhesive mink lashes with Swarovski crystals by Goddess Lashes (goddesslashes.com). Who says being girly has to be natural? Wink, wink!

Photos By Allison Yii (Wolfgram) ANd Scott Holstein (“Life is Good: Simple Words from Jake and Rocket”)

’Tis the Season to Embrace the New

BEST WOMEN’S CLOTHING

850.837.5565

Introducing Joeseph Ribkoff

Located Across From The Destin Commons, Next to Publix

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com December 2012–January 2013

11

At Bluewater Bay Dental, we believe in relationships that are based upon trust, in creating a safe & comfortable environment where our patients feel like family and are happy to come see us.

Call us to experience the difference.

850.897.4488

Tra n s f o r m i n g

L ive s

D a i l y.

MADE TO TRAVEL FOR 25 YEARS WE HAVE CELEBRATED THE ADVENTURER. 7KH WKRXJKWIXO GHVLJQ WKDW FUHDWHG WKH ILUVW WHFKQLFDO WUDYHO VKLUW KDV HYROYHG LQWR D FRPSOHWH OLQH RI IXQFWLRQDO DQG LQQRYDWLYH FORWKLQJ :H VHW WKH VWDQGDUG IRU FRPIRUWDEOH SHUIRUPDQFH DQG WKH OHJDF\ FRQWLQXHV

12 December 2012–January 2013

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com

AVAILABLE AT:

625 Grand Boulevard Ste. #101 Sandestin, FL 32550 850-650-2174

contributors

for making our 2012 Best of the Emerald Coast Event a huge success!

Danielle Buenrostro W R I T E R

benefitting the Junior League of the Emerald Coast

A military spouse who lives in Miramar Beach, Danielle enjoys scuba diving, a nice glass of Malbec and the coastal lifestyle. She was previously editor of Cary Magazine in North Carolina for eight years and currently teaches coupon classes and volunteers with Coups for Troops.

▪ Danielle introduces us to several Emerald Coasters who have made dramatic choices to reboot their careers and lives.

Photos Courtesy Jonathan Fredin (Danielle Buenrostro), Mike Ewen (Mary Leslie) And Anne Schultz

Mary Leslie W R I T E R

A native Floridian, award-winning writer, former newspaper reporter, world traveler, salsa dancer and food lover and, perhaps masochistically, is pursuing dual master’s degrees from the University of West Florida. Some of her other food-focused profiles have included the Florida governor’s personal chef and Florida’s culinary ambassador.

▪ This edition of Chat shows us there can never be too many chefs in the kitchen when it comes to making healthy meals.

Anne Schultz W R I T E R

Anne Schultz and family moved to the Emerald Coast from Kansas City 16 years ago to be surrounded by nature. From the seclusion of her bayside home she writes on a variety of subjects.

That includes her favorites — spirituality and nature — along with eco-travel around the world.

▪ Anne puts a spotlight on the local organizations who help us care for our most precious Emerald Coast resource — our children.

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com December 2012–January 2013

13

Le[\i k_\ N\Xk_\i6 :KLWH :LOVRQ¡V ,PPHGLDWH &DUH &OLQLFV KDYH \RX FRYHUHG WKLV à X VHDVRQ With locations in

)RUW :DOWRQ %HDFK 'HVWLQ DQG 1LFHYLOOH ZH¡UH KHUH when you need to see a doctor right away.

SAME-DAY APPOINTMENTS AND WALK-INS WELCOME!

Voted Best Medical Practice!

Destin

Fort Walton Beach

FULL SERVICE IN-HOUSE LAB & IMAGING

MOST MAJOR INSURANCES ACCEPTED

14 December 2012–January 2013

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com

Niceville

in the e.c.

Peopl e + St y le + H y p e

Snapshot

Bodacious Belle

Bo Casey is bodacious. So, it is apt that this effervescent interior decorator, who describes her style as “over the top,” would name her business just that.

Since May 2012 this Greenville, Ala., native — who ditched law school in order to pursue decorating — has held court at her consignment shop/interior design studio on Emerald Coast Parkway (next to Ethan Allen) in Miramar Beach. The eye-catching showroom painted royal purple has enabled the 25 year veteran decorator to expand her services to include custom drapery and upholstery on her long list of turn-key services.

This Southern beauty queen says her pageant experience easily parlays into her work. “I am all about presentation and my signature is recognizable — you could say flamboyant,” she says with a laugh.

Her packed schedule and roster of celebrity clients, from former Alabama Gov. Jim Folsom to high profile attorney Fred Levin of Pensacola, suggests that many along the Emerald Coast love being bodacious too.

Casey is happy to offer design tips to anyone who shares her passion for home design. “I hate to sound so country, but I like to tell people to follow their heart,” she says. — Zandra Wolfgram

Photo by Kansas Pitts

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com December 2012–January 2013

15

chat For the price of eating out, personal chefs Mary Churillo (left) and Patti Horton grocery shop, cook a homemade meal and clean-up for the Hostilo family and their friends in Fort Walton Beach.

(Below) Horton’s pretty, flavorful Vegetable Pasta Primavera, prepared with fresh ingredients, packs a nutritional punch.

A Portable Pair

Personal chefs craft healthful, soulful fare in clients’ kitchens

By Mary Leslie

T

he delightful aroma of a stew, just beginning to simmer, permeates a steamy Emerald Coast kitchen as business partners Mary Churillo and Patti Horton of Chef on the Go gracefully scurry back and forth, twirling spoons, lifting lids and thumbing through spice cabinets. Churillo adds a pinch of red pepper flakes to the turkey sausage, white beans and collard greens already bathing in a warm broth on the stove as Horton dices a medley of multicolored veggies for her ratatouille.

Comfort foods are often equated with being calorie laden. However, they can be healthy, explains Churillo — whose aqua-colored eyes, framed by delicate blonde locks, pair well with her denim apron. At the opposite end of the kitchen, Horton, wearing a black chef’s jacket, has tucked her dark brown hair under a chef’s hat decorated with chili peppers. Horton uses

16 December 2012–January 2013

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com

spices, fresh herbs and substitute ingredients in place of fats and sugars to create equally delicious recipes, as evidenced by a few of her own award-winning creations.

As a registered nurse and former home-care nurse, Churillo brings a wealth of medical knowledge to the company, which serves clients with a variety of special needs, including diabetes, heart problems, wheat allergies and even one who is undergoing chemotherapy. Horton’s practical knowledge comes from years spent in restaurant kitchens. The pair keep clients’ special dietary needs and food preferences updated and organized on note cards, although their regulars’ likes and dislikes are often memorized.

Churillo and Horton of Niceville and Fort Walton Beach, respectively, shop each day at area grocery stores and farmers’ markets and do their best to stay up to date on food trends. The two

Photos by Scott Holstein

PRESENTING SPONSOR: BLUEWATER PLASTIC SURGERY

Thank you for nominating us to participate in Top Salon 2012

Before

?

Affteerr Aft

Help your loved ones start the New Year off right. Give the gift of relaxation with a gift certicate from As You Like It. Gift certicates available on our website www.AsYouLikeItSalon.com | 850.664.2954 | 323 Page Bacon Rd., Mary Esther, FL 32569

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com December 2012–January 2013

17

chat

self-taught chefs have a knack for creating heart-healthy, lowsodium and vegetarian comfort foods for their wide-ranging clientele. Both locals and tourists hire Chef on the Go to come to their homes or vacation rentals to cook healthful homemade meals. For roughly the same cost of eating at a restaurant, says Churillo, Chef on the Go will grocery shop, drive to the site, cook and clean up, allowing families more time to spend together and solving the dilemma of long waits at restaurants for large groups of vacationers.

Tina Bennet smiles as her son, Oliver, gets a closer look at Horton’s handiwork. Being served dinner by a personal chef makes dinnertime an exciting experience for kids and a timesaving convenience for mom and dad.

EC: What type of work did you do prior to joining Chef on the Go? PH: I actually went to art school to study commercial art and fashion illustration and moved to this area to work the summer when I was 21. I had fun and never left.

EC: Did art school teach you anything that you have been able to apply to your food presentation?

PH: Oh, yeah — 100 percent — like edible arrangements.

I’ve been doing that with vegetables for years.

EC: There are millions of combinations of foods. How do you decide what to make for your clients?

MC: We have some clients who are very specific, which is lovely because that makes our job a little bit easier. I have a person [who] gets an organic produce box every week, so it’s kind of fun because I never know what’s going to be in the box until I get it.

EC: What would be your buying tips for going to the grocery store?

PH: Shop the perimeter. You will eat healthier if you just walk that perimeter.

EC: Do you go out to restaurants often?

MC: We do go out to eat, but we are particular about where we go. I like to go places where I can get things that I don’t make at home. I love chicken wings, but I don’t make them that much. Buffalo’s Reef, to me, has the best chicken wings.

And they have the best blue cheese dressing. I can’t duplicate it — I’ve tried. ec 18 December 2012–January 2013

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com

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

2012

IN INDIVIDUAL NDI D VI VIDU DUAL AL S SOLUTIONS OLUTTIONS OL NS

Mix & Mat Ma Match ch h Sep Separates e ara arates tes e es Top Tops ps A AA A-G|B Bottoms ottoms ott oms ms 4 - 220 0 | Ju Junio Juniors nio i rss XS X -D DD D | Pl PPlus uss Siz Sizes e 16W es 6W W - 32W 2W W M sy 4 - 20 | Plu Mis Missy PPluss Size SSizes ize zees tto o 32W 32W W | LLong ongg To on Torso rso s & Bra Bra-si Bra-sized -si s zed e Mastectomy Ma tec Mas e tom tomy omy | Gi G Girls rlss & Pre Pre-Teen e-Te Teeen en Shoppes at Paradise Key (West of Destin Commons/Next to Publix)

(850) 837-6763 | www.sportylady.com

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com December 2012–January 2013

19

well-worded

Ken Tucker’s ‘Last Roll Call’ Keeps WWII History Alive B-17 tailgunner recalls: ‘I came to fly ... and fly I did.’

By Thomas J. Monigan

20 December 2012–January 2013

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com

them, ‘I came in here to fly,’ and I volunteered for gunnery school. Fly I did.”

Wendy Woodrick calls Ken Tucker “a living, walking, breathing hero.” And her belief in him is represented by her helping to publish Tucker’s memoirs of his role as a tailgunner on the big bomber dubbed “Kwiturbitchin”

“As I gaze at the old photos of my crew, it’s sad for me to acknowledge that they’re all gone now, except for me (standing, far left). I’m the last one, the only one left to tell our story.

Sadly, I know that it’s just a matter of time before I stand before my crew and make my last roll call.” — Kenneth S. Tucker

The following is published with the author’s permission: “After one particularly long and tough mission, it was almost dark before interrogation was over.

I was so weary I could hardly hold my head up.

As I trudged back to the tent with my head down and my thumbs resting in the strap of my shoulder holster, I sensed two people approaching on the path. I didn’t look up, but as I approached, they separated, stepped aside and let me pass. I glanced up and realized that one was the group commander, a bird colonel, and the other was a visiting general.

Neither of them said a word — they knew where I had been.”

Photo by Scott Holstein (Kenneth Tucker)

Photos Courtesy Ken Tucker

K

enneth S. Tucker is among the few who can still recall growing up in the Great Depression, and how America rallied during its darkest days of the 20th century.

Tucker was a teenager when the stunning attack on Pearl Harbor catapulted this country into World War II. Good-bye, relatives and friends in East Point. Goodbye to the folks at the Acme Ice Plant in Appalachicola, a key supplier for A.L. Tucker Seafood, the family business.

Upon graduation from Carrabelle High School in 1943, Tucker enlisted in the Air Force. And he wound up flying 35 missions as part of a B-17 bomber crew attached to the 15th Air Force based in Italy.

Today he says he always believed he would come back, despite anti-aircraft flak, enemy fighters and the harrowing vagaries of aerial combat. “I just refused to believe it,” he said about facing death on a regular basis. “I just went in with a positive attitude. When they took me out of training for the pilot program because they had too many ... they gave us a choice of going to any tech school. And I told

rench The

Laundry A Dry Cleaner and More

BEST DRY CLEANER 2011–2012

We use Eco-Friendly Green Products Pr rod du uc cts t Tucker in 2009 with a B-17, which he says faithfully served as his “office.”

through Priority Publishing in Southport, Fla. “But Ken is so self-sacrificing, he would never “I just went in with call himself a hero.”

Entitled “Last Roll Call,” a positive attitude. this paperback labor of love first When they took me appeared in 2009 and is about out of training for to enter its fourth edition. The author can be found at Sundog the pilot program Books in Seaside on Tuesdays because they had too in the afternoon and evening, many ... they gave and his work is also available at Downtown Books in us a choice of going Apalachicola, as well as through to any tech school.

Amazon.com.

And I told them, ‘I Tucker’s 88th birthday arrives next May, and he lives came in here to fly,’ with some of the issues that and I volunteered for age can bring. His hearing was damaged during the missions gunnery school. Fly I he flew, but the cane made did.” – Kenneth Tucker entirely from 50-caliber bullets that he sometimes displays is “strictly a conversation piece,” according to his only child, Wanda Tucker Goodwin.

A teacher for 36 years, Goodwin’s retirement has been enlivened by her involvement with her father’s book. It was begun as a tribute to Tucker’s crew by the last survivor, but it blossomed into something larger during the 18 months it took to compose.

“It was a difficult time for her,” Tucker recalled recently, “because I told the stories and she typed them. We had to go over them, and I had a lot of explaining to do, because she didn’t understand a lot of the G.I. terms.”

And that wasn’t the only issue.

“Every once in a while, he’d say to me, ‘That’s not how it happened,’ because I was just trying to spice it up a little,” Goodwin said with just a little smile. “And I would say, ‘But Dad, who’s going to know?’

“And he would answer, ‘I will.’ ” ec

Same Day Service! if in before 9 AM

Free Pickup i k and d Delivery li Check Buttons Minor Repairs Alterations Shoe Repair Draperies Wedding Dresses Wash/Dry/Fold Service Bed Linens Rug Cleaning Leather Cleaning

Grand Blvd.

8:00 AM-5:30 PM Monday-Friday 8:00 AM-1:00 PM Saturday 850.269.0006

393 @ Shannon Ln. 7:00 AM-5:30 PM Monday-Friday 8:00 AM-1:00 PM Saturday 850.622.0432

email: thefrenchlaundry@yahoo.com www.thefrenchlaundrydrycleaners.com EmeraldCoastMagazine.com December 2012–January 2013

21

personality Whether you wear them for health problems, religious reasons or just for fun …

Wigging Out is Back In

By Zandra Wolfgram

S

ex symbol Raquel Welch forced mainstream America to shift their gaze from her bustline to her hairline when she debuted her line of fashion forward wigs in the 1980s. Today, younger starlets such as Beyonce, Katie Perry and reality TV’s Kim Zolciak have made wearing fake tresses a fashion do.

Bombshell Jessica Simpson has made celebrity looks affordable and accessible for every day women with her line of clip-on hair extensions that allow you to channel your inner Brigette Bardot in a snap. Though Brittney Spears tried to embrace her bad girl bald moment, she too, got her head back in the hair game and was soon swinging long locks and trying to climb back on top of the music charts.

Like so many celebrities, Cheyenne Isenhour “wigs out” too — so to speak. As to be expected, the soft-spoken, petite cosmetologist, who owns and operates Wigs by Cheyenne (near Office Depot in the Emerald Coast Shopping Centre in Destin), is always beautifully coiffed thanks to her own personal collection of a half dozen differently styled wigs — all baby blonde.

Isenhour is a bit of an anomaly. She was born in Miami, but her lingering accent is a dead giveaway that she was raised in New York. She returned to the Sunshine State when she was 12 and, other than selling Mary Kay cosmetics on the side for six years, she started “doing hair” in the 1960s — the heyday for big hair and wigs — and worked exclusively in the salon industry, cutting and styling hair and wigs in South Florida and the Bahamas. She even managed a busy salon located inside a stationary cruise ship, The Italia, but she shakes her head, wrinkles her nose and nearly shudders at the thought of being called “a career person.”

At the urging of her only son, this scissor hand moved to the Destin area in 1997. When she decided to open her own business, her

22 December 2012–January 2013

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com

Cheyenne Isenhour has owned and operates the only full-service wig shop in Northwest Florida for 15 years. From left to right: Desley Parker, Brenda Winfree, Whitney Holland and Dee Smith are among the “converted” and eager to reveal for EC readers their wig-transforming looks.

Before

“Wigging Out”

Photos by Scott Holstein

2012

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com December 2012–January 2013

23

NICEVILLE

HIGH SCHOOL

personality Before

“Wigging Out”

Before

Home of the Eagles

Class of 2012 earned $10,227,789.00 in scholarships Advanced Studies students earn up to 60 college credits Leading-edge Information Technology Institute Award-winning Performing Arts Programs Winning Athletic Programs recognized statewide Zoning waivers currently available at www.nicevillehighschool.org

www.nicevillehighschool.org Visit our website and follow us on Facebook and Twitter.

800 East John Sims Parkway Niceville, FL 32578 850.833.4114 Marcus Chambers, Principal

24 December 2012–January 2013

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com

husband, Bill, much to her chagrin, insisted the shop carry her unique name. Over the next 15 years, Cheyenne worked to build a loyal clientele for Wigs by Cheyenne, which features 1,400 wigs in the latest styles (many available at this shop six months before they hit the market). Prices range from $29 (the sale wall) to $799 for human hair wigs. Isenhour admits that many of her patrons have been loyal customers for more than 20 years (when she first started “doing wigs” in South Florida.)

Still, wearing the hat of “a service person” is much more comfortable for this career cosmetologist whose work is the means to an end for her family. “I don’t like when people think they are too important,” she says, emphasizing the word important in a hushed tone. “I’m just here to do a service. I don’t want to say, ‘Look at me, I’m so great.’”

Still, a base of 6,500 loyal customers suggests she is great at what she does. Though it could be argued that a wig is a superficial and unnatural beauty accessory, like a mask to the face that emboldens the wearer by instilling the confidence of a new identity, a wig can also be revealing and healing as Isenhour would learn all too well.

Having grown up with a cousin who had alopecia — permanent hair loss — she early on became aware of health issues that impacted hair loss. She watched as her aunt experimented with hats, hairpieces, even applying white iodine on her cousin’s scalp. But it was her mother’s second battle with breast cancer in the 1980s that ignited her interest into a true passion. “I saw her discomfort. She had a really sensitive head, so I would trim and thin her wigs and add something to make it soft at the nape of her neck for her,” she says.

Isenhour’s quiet joy in fitting Emerald Coasters with wigs is her way to help people look and feel good about themselves. A self-described “spiritual person,” the role of caretaker (whether for her mother, husband, clients or cat) is a natural for Isenhour — although she spends little time recreating on her few days off each week. That’s the time when she pours herself into processing paperwork, reordering wigs and tracking sales and taxes from home.

Like her wigs, there is much beneath the delicate surface of this private, modest woman. In her case, a daily wig wearer does not a diva make. In fact, she is quite the opposite. The only way her brisk wig business appears to disappoint is in the stereotyping. “Half of my customers come in for hair loss from chemotherapy, alopecia or trichaphobia — an aversion to hair that causes those afflicted to continually pull out their hair — and they feel so upset, they feel like they’re going to look like Dolly Parton,” she says.

But after Isenhour (and her trained staff) match a stylish wig to a customer’s coloring and fit it properly to frame their face, both customer and cosmetologist are happy with the transformation. “It’s satisfying when they say, ‘This wasn’t so bad,’” Isenhour says with a smile. Then she adds in a whisper, “And a lot of them become wig wearers even after their hair comes in. They say it’s so much easier.”

Brenda Winfree who used to have long brown hair down to her waist, is now a wig woman. Her mother came to Cheyenne’s when she lost her hair during cancer treatment in 2007. Three years later, when Winfree was diagnosed with breast cancer, she knew where to turn, not only

“Wigging Out”

Before

for wigs but to reclaim some of what she lost.

“I wanted to walk into the world with a little normality. I picked a wig that looked like my old hair and hardly anyone knew it was a wig; friends just thought I got my hair cut,” she says. Winfree says her hair has grown back a little unruly, but she doesn’t worry about it knowing she can pull on one of her six wigs — even a platinum blonde number when she’s up for a cat call or two, because according to her “blondes really do have more fun.”

Winfree is in good company. Half of Isenhour’s clientele are what she calls “recreational” wig wearers choosing their faux locks for a fresh new look or to turn around a bad hair day. “I think half of Destin wears wigs.

I have a trained eye, and when I am out I can spot them,” Isenhour says with an impish grin.

But wigs are not just for nights out on the town. Cheyenne’s index card file is bursting with busy professionals looking for a quick hair fix. “We have attorneys, realtors, insurance people, nurses and even doctors who want to grab their hair style and go,” she says. And if they are too busy to style a wig or want to refresh it, the shop provides that service to about 15 percent of its clients.

“We cut, trim and clean wigs. If they want it curly or straight, they can drop it off and we’ll do it in about a week.”

Though she doesn’t like to boast, once she begins naming all of her products she is reminded just how many things are stocked in her shop. She recently started to carry baby ponytails to attach to babies who have not yet sprouted their own. “We got wigs for babies up to snowbirds,” she says.

Wigs have helped Isenhour to do better than “survive” all of these years. They’ve allowed this cosmetologist to make a living — and a difference — with a sense of style. Like any beauty shop, Isenhour has seen and heard it all. She has quietly stood been behind her customers through changes in hair styles and life’s challenges, and endured a few herself. And wearing a perfect wig isn’t a bad way to head into stormy weather. But no matter what life has in store, Cheyenne Isenhour says she can count on one thing: “Wigs are back, and they are here to stay!” ec

“Wigging Out”

Cheyenne Wants You to Know For health reasons, many quality wig shops do not allow you to return a wig, so take advantage of the expert staff and try before you buy.

Quality wigs can be adjusted larger or smaller, so be sure yours is properly fitted to your head and professionally trimmed and styled to your liking (provided free with your purchase) The average lifespan of a wig is about one year, but if you do not care for it and handle it too much, it will not last that long. Do not use a blow dryer, curling or flat iron on a wig and do not wear it to the beach or when using the oven.

Caring for your new wig means using the right products. When washing a wig use wig shampoo and conditioner. Wash it gently and allow it to air dry (never blow dry a wig). Once dry, gently shake it into place and use a wig comb or pick sparingly to style it.

Depending on how it is constructed, some wigs can be restyled into different looks, straightened or curled. To make the most of your wig, be sure to ask what it can do.

850.269.0086

4421 Commons Dr. E., Ste. B-104 Destin, FL 32541

850.892.3011

1030 US Highway 331 S., Walton Plaza Ste. D, Defuniak, FL 32435

“The Plac e fo r the Beautiful Face ” ®

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.

2012

THANK YOU FOR VOTING US BEST PET CARE/SHOP ON THE EMERALD COAST 2 YEARS IN A ROW

4935 E. CO. HWY. 30-A, SUITE 3 • SEAGROVE BEACH, FL 32459 WWW.BOWWOWMEOWPETCOMPANY.COM

850-534-0009

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com December 2012–January 2013

25

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

G i f t Gu i de ’Tis the season for giving. Get into the spirit by checking off your holiday shopping list with gifts found right here on the Emerald Coast. Let our specially-selected ideas in our Holiday Gift Guide inspire you with fabulous gifts for everyone on your “nice” list. So, what are you waiting for? Wrap it up!

Home Automation by ELAN g!

Have remote access to your home to control music, TV, security, climate or lighting. Make your world simple with the touch of your wireless device. Voted Best Audio Visual Provider on the Emerald Coast.

Audio Video by Stan (850) 529-4743 | audiovideobystan.com

26 December 2012–January 2013

Apricot Lane Boutique

Bay Breeze Patio

3Strands Bracelet Give a gift that gives back! These beautiful woven bracelets are handmade by young women saved from human trafficking. They are available in various styles and colors and packaged in a brightly colored palm leaf box. $18 each

The Big Green Egg is the ultimate in outdoor cooking.

It’s a grill, a smoker, oven and … the best holiday gift you will ever give! Available in five sizes from $379 to $1,099. Voted Best Outdoor Furniture Retailer on the Emerald Coast.

Apricot Lane Boutique Destin Commons, 4339 Legendary Dr. Destin | (850) 424-3915 ApricotLaneDestin.com | 3StrandsGlobal.com

Bay Breeze Patio 32 Forest Shore Dr., Destin | (850) 269-4666

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Beautiful Lights

Beautiful Lights, voted Best Lighting Store in 2012, offers lighting options, from decorative to task lighting including custom lighting design services.

This holiday season bring some cheer and decorate with the “A Christmas Story” Leg Lamp in your window! $175.

Beautiful Lights — The Shops of Destiny (between Avantgarde and Kiki Risa) 36236 Emerald Coast Parkway Destin | (850) 650-9417

Quality Brands at Destin Threads

Holiday Gifts at GG Bloom

Spoil him with a vibrant silk tie and shirt from vineyard vines, Southern Tide, Southern Point or Robert Graham.

The store voted Best Men’s Apparel also carries stylish brands for women.

Destin Threads — The Shops of Destiny 36236 Emerald Coast Parkway Destin | (850) 837-8750

Deck your halls with our festive holiday flower arrangements, ornaments and custom gift baskets filled with holiday cheer. Faa Laa Laa Laa Laa Laa! GG Bloom — The Shops of Destiny 36236 Emerald Coast Parkway Destin | (850) 460-2078

Gift Card

Hilton sandestin Beach GOLF RESORT AND SPA

Glass Art by Mary Hong

Indulge this holiday season with a gift card to Seagar’s Prime Steaks & Seafood or Serenity by the sea Spa at Hilton Sandestin Beach.

Lovelace Interiors features unique gift ideas for the holidays including these one-of-a-kind tempered glass Christmas trees designed by local artist Mary Hong. $295.

Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort and Spa 4000 S. Sandestin Blvd., Miramar Beach (850) 267-9500 | hiltonsandestinbeach.com

Lovelace Interiors 12870 Highway 98 W. | Miramar Beach (850) 837-5563 | lovelaceinteriors.com

Tiffany’s Formal Boutique

Tiffany’s has the latest trends in everyday clothes as well as formal wear and accessories. Great jewelry lines, Lenny & Eva, Van Galz, Island Cowgirl and much more.

Tiffany’s Formal Boutique 4518 E. Hwy 20, Niceville | (850) 897-1722

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com December 2012–January 2013

27

28 December 2012–January 2013

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com

happenings Events + Culture + Causes

spotlight

Let the Fir Fly

Grand Boulevard Hosts Third Annual Festival of Trees Trimming the tree takes on a whole new meaning at Grand Boulevard’s third annual Festival of Trees event at Grand Park.

This holiday season you’ll surely get into the spirit when you hear your favorite Christmas carols while strolling through a forest of a dozen uniquely themed and finely decorated holiday fir trees standing under twinkling white lights.

Volunteers from non-profit organizations will creatively deck the boughs of their holiday tree in hopes of winning Best of Show and/or People’s Choice, as well as $5,000 in cash prizes.

The public is invited and encouraged to vote for a favorite tree once a day (ballots are available at the information kiosk).

The tree with the most votes will win the People’s Choice award. The awards will be announced by St. Nick himself on Saturday, Dec. 22, at 2 p.m. in Grand Park. The trees will be on display through the New Year. — Zandra Wolfgram

Photo by Teri Voyles Photography

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com December 2012–January 2013

29

culture

You, Too, Can Be the Proud Owner of Fine Art Adoption Network Finds Loving Homes for Art ... for Free! By Pam Forrester

30 December 2012–January 2013

invest a little time before it hangs in your living room. Here’s how it works: Art collectors are invited to the website, fineartadoption. net, to review the works. If you find a piece you like — be it a painting, a drawing or sculpture — the adoption process begins. The first step is to write the artist, introduce yourself and explain why you want a specific piece.

Cuddy explains how her home became the proud owner of original artworks: “My son, Peyton, was supposed to be studying for exams when I heard a scream. He called me to his computer to show me the website.

I was sure it was a scam, so I opened up every link and looked at all the artists’ works. I immediately wrote Adam Simon explaining the entire story.” Cuddy quickly received a response from Simon, who replied, “You had me at ‘my 17-year-old son.’” Simon also has a teenage son, so the two began what would become a months long friendship. Cuddy loved Simon’s contemporary works blending colors and words on canvas. “I love the written word in art, so I chose two 6-by-8-inch paintings that have the words ‘Steal This Art’ boldly stenciled across the canvas. Art and literature are my passions and I (was) intrigued by your

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com

mention of Abbie Hoffman, so I looked up the reference,” explains Cuddy.

For some, like Cuddy, the initial letter is also a first step in forming a new friendship.

Months after adopting, Cuddy and her son traveled to a gallery opening in New York City to see more of Simon’s works. “We live in a society where there are so many massproduced wall hangings and decorations, you don’t really get to see an original piece of artwork except in museums.”

While Cuddy is introducing the next generation to art and artists, Robin Dunlap lets the elderly appreciate her works. Her adopted works hung for years in her office at Home Health Care Services. One of her favorites was a painting named “Writing Tablet and Grass” by Massachusetts artist Brece Honeycutt, a perfect symbol for her elderly clients. “In geriatrics care, we speak a lot about the past. A writing tablet is a reminder of a simple lifestyle and the grass of a simple life on the prairie,” she says. When Dunlap first reached out to adopt, she selected artists from various mediums; a photograph, a painting, a drawing and an art installation. Over the course of a year, Dunlap

Photos by PAM FORRESTER (adam Simons art) and scott Holstein (Mary Hong art)

i

f you think owning original art work is limited to the mega-wealthy or Hollywood superstars, you haven’t met Adam Simon. The 59-year old artist from New York City launched the Fine Art Adoption Network, nicknamed “FAAN,” so anyone can enjoy a piece of art in his home.

In this age of Internet scams, when an offer sounds too good to be true, it usually means it is a hoax. But FAAN is no scam. There are plenty of happy art owners to attest to FAAN’s authenticity — 567 to be exact.

Forty-eight-year-old Robin Dunlap of Clearwater adopted four works of art in 2006. “It is such a wonderful concept. Art can so enrich people’s lives.” Tricia Cuddy from Pennsylvania adopted two pieces last year. “Owning a piece of artwork demystifies art,” she said. “You learn your own likes and dislikes by living with it.”

This brainchild of Simon’s was born of necessity. When his father, Morris, passed away in 2005, Simon’s elderly mother decided to move from the family home in Boston to be closer to her children in New York. Many of Simon’s early pieces hanging on her walls needed to be moved. But what do you do with huge canvases when you are downsizing to an apartment? Simon quickly realized he was not the only artist with many more works than he could sell or hang in his home. FAAN, the Internet site to link artists with appreciative collectors, was created.

The artwork is free, although you have to

wrote about each piece in the company newsletter in an effort to expose clients to her passion for art. Like Cuddy, she too has followed her artists through the years at Art Basel in Miami, a gallery show in Washington, D.C., and continuing correspondence with Honeycutt.

The artists don’t have to accept every solicitor, so there will be adopters disappointed to lose their first choice.

But with close to 340 artists and hundreds of pieces to choose from, adopters are encouraged to try again with another artist. Some artists even make several copies of a specific scene so multiple adopters are successful with the same work.

There is no obligation or expectation of future purchases. But as Simon explains, “You don’t know what good deed might happen. Generosity begets generosity.”

A doctor in New York City was so pleased with his adoption, he contacted the artist and offered him free medical services for a year.

Simon lives in New York City, but the artists and collectors live all over the United States and overseas. Maya Choi has put several pieces up for adoption from her native Ecuador. After Italian Vogue did an article about the Adoption Network, a 17-year-old boy contacted Simon asking to adopt a piece. Simon quizzed the young Italian and found, though he is just 17, he had been a collector of art for some time and already had several classical masters. And the teen is not the network’s youngest adopter.

A 12-year-old boy thoughtfully convinced Fawn Krieger to let him adopt her work titled “Trophy.”

“This is exactly what I want. I love to see the demographics expanded of who is getting artwork,” says Simon. On the other end of the age spectrum was a 95-yearold New Hampshire man who lived in a cabin. Gordon Berryman enjoyed a huge painting of Simon’s “Triad” for two years before he passed away. Other works hang in libraries and municipal buildings. It doesn’t matter where the piece ends up — everyone is eligible to adopt. “My dream is FAAN is a global forum,” says Simon, “for the artists, but also to get the message out about art.”

Once you come to the artist studio to pick it up or have it shipped to your home, then the painting is yours. You can frame it, hang it, admire and enjoy it. This adoption is final. ec

Artist Adam Simon’s original art (opposite page) channels the Yippie zeitgeist of activist Abbie Hoffman’s revolution how-to manual “Steal This Book.” He created “Shrug” (this page), a large acrylic-onaluminum painting, in 2009.

Award-winning artist and art advocate Susan Lucas in her studio in Santa Rosa Beach. Her natureinspired acrylic paintings earned her recognition as the Emerald Coast Artist of the Year in 2004.

The Art of the Deal

Whether you are giving the gift of art to someone near to you or to yourself this holiday season, in this economy it pays to be creative with your budget. Local glass artist Mary Hong and collage painter Beeb Benson offer several suggestions to EC magazine readers on how art lovers along the Emerald Coast can be masterful in saving on the purchase of their next masterpiece. — Zandra Wolfgram Attend local art shows. You can buy direct from the artist for less than you can at an art gallery, where artists only make 50 percent on what they sell.

Scour consignment showrooms such as Lovelace Interiors and Bodacious Designs.

Ante up at local charity auctions, and you’ll often snag great deals.

Don’t miss the Seaside Community Yard Sale and hit local garage sales for great buys on original art and frames.

Church bazaars, community centers, craft shows and fairs often include art booths.

Get to know local artists who clear out their studios and galleries once or twice a year in fall and spring to make way for new work.

Shop designer booths in vintage stores and antique shops such as Smith’s Antiques for fabulous finds.

Repurpose art by buying a painting, taking it apart, repainting it and making it your own work of art.

Be creative with extra materials from a home project.

Wallpaper, floor tile and paint are raw materials just waiting to be made into something wonderful.

Trade your services with local artists in need of them. For example, you might trade lawn care, cooking, cleaning, home repair or website design with an artist for a piece of art you love.

Cash is king. So don’t be shy to ask for a discount for your dollars.

A cash transaction saves the artist the credit card processing fee.

Payment plans are an option with some artists willing to spread your total over a few months.

Frequent customers command great prices. If you plan to collect a series, you can negotiate a better per piece price.

Freebies are often available when you buy multiple pieces.

If you buy two or more pieces, you might be able to snag a small, unframed print.

Just ask. Most artists will be willing to discount up to 20 percent if asked for a price break.

No kidding around. Hong and Benson both say they have a soft spot for creative kids. If a child really loves a piece of art, they will often gift it to them right on the spot.

Shop online for great deals.

Many local artists showcase their work on Pinterest and Etsy.com.

Get involved in local art organizations. The Cultural Arts Association in Walton County, the Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation in Destin and the Arts and Design Society in Fort Walton Beach know who the up-and-coming artists are.

Their work is often less expensive than more established artists.

Lend a hand. If you offer to help an artist set up or break down their art show booth, they may be happy to reward you with a piece of art.

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com December 2012–January 2013

31

thecalendar

+music

A Broadway Holiday!

Tenor Gary Mauer comes to the Emerald Coast as a Sinfonia guest artist to perform favorite Broadway tunes, including songs from “The Phantom of the Opera,” which he has performed in for the last 15 years.

32 December 2012–January 2013

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com

Dec. 14 ‘Tis the season for Broadway! Join Sinfonia Gulf Coast for all of your holiday favorites presented in orchestral style at 7:30 p.m. at the Destiny Worship Center in Miramar Beach. Tony Awardnominees Gary Mauer, who currently plays the role of the Phantom in “The Phantom of the Opera” on Broadway, and Morgan James, who appeared in “GodSpell” and “The Addam’s Family,” perform all of the cherished holiday classics in addition to standard Broadway tunes. From Leroy Anderson’s famous “Sleigh Ride” to selections from “The Nutcracker,” this will be the perfect concert for the entire family, capped with a special appearance from St. Nick himself.

Tickets are $42.50 for preferred seating and $29.50 for choice seating.

To purchase tickets, call (850) 269-7129 or purchase online at sinfoniagulfcoast.org.

Photos by Steve wells (30A Songwriters Festival) and Kay Phelan (Phantom)

december + january

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

Through Dec. 15

Panhandle Fresh Market Shop this healthy online farmer’s market filled with local produce and other regional items.

On Saturdays, food is delivered to stops in Mary Esther, Navarre, Gulf Breeze, Pensacola and Pace. Seasonal memberships are $25. panhandlefresh.com. Contact Megan at (850) 623-0174 or megan@panhandlefresh.com.

Through Dec. 17

Grammy Award-winning singersongwriter Rodney Crowell croons his country tunes during the 30A Songwriters Festival.

Christmas Art Market Arts and Design Society will celebrate the Christmas season with original artwork from all their artist members. The works will include paintings, sculptures, ceramics and cards at great prices.

FREE. Arts and Design Society Art Center Gallery, 17 First St. S.E., Fort Walton Beach. Gallery hours are Tues–Fri noon–4 p.m., Sat 1–4 p.m. (850) 244-1271, artsdesignsociety.org

Saturdays through Dec. 22

Photos with Santa at Grand Boulevard Come capture your child’s keepsake holiday photo with celebrity guest, Santa Claus. FREE. Grand Park in Grand Boulevard at Sandestin, 600 Grand Blvd., Miramar Beach. 2–4 p.m.

(850) 654-5929, grandboulevard.com

Wednesdays through Dec. 26

Wednesday Night Concert Series Enjoy this outdoor music concert series featuring live performers, bands and musicians.

FREE. Events Plaza, The Village of Baytowne Wharf at Sandestin, 9300 Emerald Coast Pkwy. West, Miramar Beach. 7–9 p.m. (850) 267-8117, baytownewharf.com

Wednesday, Friday and Saturday Nights through Dec. 29

12 Nights of Lights Throughout December, enjoy a festive light show in the Events Plaza set to your favorite holiday music. This sparkling event will be featured during the holiday editions of the Wednesday Night Concert Series. FREE. The Village of Baytowne Wharf, 9100 Baytowne Blvd., Miramar Beach. Show times are 6 p.m. and 7 p.m. (850) 267-8186, baytownewharf.com

Through Jan. 1

Festival of Trees in Grand Boulevard Behold more than a dozen beautifully decorated Christmas trees on public display as area nonprofit organizations vie to win cash prizes for Best of Show and People’s Choice awards. Vote for your favorite tree. On Saturday, Dec. 22, at 2 p.m., the contest winners will be announced in Grand Park. There will be Christmas entertainment while hot chocolate and cookies are served. FREE. Grand Park in Grand Boulevard at Sandestin, 600 Grand Blvd., Miramar Beach. Daily 10 a.m.–9 p.m.

Through Jan. 1

Holiday Lights in Concert This visually spectacular presentation features an amazing nightly display of colorful lights synchronized to your favorite holiday songs.

FREE. Silver Sands Premium Outlets, 10562 Emerald Coast Pkwy., Destin. 5–9 p.m. (850) 654-9771, premiumoutlets.com/silversands

Through Jan. 27

Baytowne on Ice For those visitors who miss the cold and ice, this ice skating rink is the perfect opportunity to get into the winter spirit. $10 per hour plus $2 skate rental. The first hour of each day is reserved for “kids skate,” for youths 12 and under. The Village of Baytowne Wharf, 9100 Baytowne Blvd., Miramar Beach. 4–10 p.m.

(850) 267-8184, baytownewharf.com

Fridays throughout the year

Downtown Art Walk Stroll Fort Walton Beach’s historic district and visit with merchants from participating shops and restaurants while enjoying art demonstrations, live music, complimentary refreshments and special discounts.

FREE. Downtown Fort Walton Beach. 5:30–8:30 p.m. For more information, contact Tara Wesley at (850) 226-7763.

+festival

30A Songwriters Festival Jan. 18–20 Songwriters from around the country will gather in South Walton for a three-day festival featuring more than 125 musicians and more than 300 performances in venues ranging from intimate listening rooms to spacious outdoor amphitheaters along Scenic Hwy 30A. This year’s festival welcomes the talents of award-winning singer/ songwriters such as Lucinda Williams, Nanci Griffith, Suzanne Vega, Jeffrey Steele and Tift Merritt among many others. Proceeds benefit the Cultural Arts Alliance of Walton County. $110. Headquarters: WaterColor Inn & Resort, 34 Goldenrod Circle, Santa Rosa Beach. (850) 622-5970, 30Asongwritersfestival.com

+tasting

23rd Annual Wine World Champagne Walkabout Dec. 9 If you like wines of the bubbly sort, you’ll love this annual tasting event. Mix and mingle with friends and family from 1 to 4 p.m. at Chan’s Wine World while sampling Champagne and sparkling wines from all over the world along with savory artisan cheeses and gourmet treats from Chan’s pantry. $20 advance, $25 day of. Ticket prices include a $5 rebate on in-store wines. Chan’s Wine World, 4424 Commons Drive, Destin. (850) 269-2909, chanswineworld.com EmeraldCoastMagazine.com December 2012–January 2013

33

thecalendar Dec. 1–12

Silver Angel Tree Help a child have a brighter holiday by visiting the Families First Angel Tree located at Charity Gift Wrap at Silver Sands Premium Outlets.

Choose a child to help and return a wrapped gift to the Angel Tree, no later than Wednesday, Dec. 12. FREE. Silver Sands Premium Outlets, 10562 Emerald Coast Pkwy., Destin. Mon–Sat 9 a.m–9 p.m., Sun 10 a.m.–7 p.m. (850) 654-9771, premiumoutlets.com/silversands

Dec. 1, 14, 21

Winterfest Trolley Tours Trolleys act as theaters, taking passengers to a series of interactive performances along a twomile route in Historic Downtown Pensacola. $12 children; $18 adults. 6 p.m., 400 S. Palafox Place.

(850) 435-0914, pensacolawinterfest.org

Dec. 1–31

Arts and Design Society Window Display Drive by to see the stained-glass art of Tappy Henson on display in the studio windows of the Art Center, fronting First Street. FREE. Art Center, 17 First St., S.E., Fort Walton Beach. (850) 244-1271, artsdesignsociety.org

Dec. 1–31

ADSO Art Display in Fort Walton Beach Library The works of Arts and Design Society members will be on display in the foyer of the Fort Walton Beach Public Library for the month of December. FREE. Fort Walton Beach Public Library, 185 Miracle Strip Pkwy. S.E., Fort Walton Beach. 9 a.m.–5 p.m. (most days) (850) 244-1271

Dec. 1–31

Coastal Branch Library Art Exhibit Bette Appel and Didon Comer are two local artists who paint in oil, acrylics and pastels. FREE. Coastal Branch Library, 437 Greenway Trail, Santa Rosa Beach. Mon 9 a.m.–8p.m., Tues–Fri, 9 a.m.–5 p.m.

(850) 267-2809

Dec. 2

A Gospel Brunch featuring D’Vine The sophisticated vocals and rich harmonies of international Gospel trio D’Vine have inspired audiences around the world. The culinary team of Legendary’s Emerald Grande provide an excellent pre-concert brunch. $60. Grand Ballroom at the Emerald Grande in Destin. 11:30 a.m. (850) 269-7129, sinfoniagulfcoast.org

Dec. 1

Silver Sands Santa’s Arrival Don your holiday costume and the colors of the season and welcome Santa upon his arrival at Silver Sands Premium Outlets.Children are invited to join Santa for a fun parade to the courtyard forrefreshments and complimentary photos.

FREE. Silver Sands Premium Outlets, 10562 Emerald Coast Pkwy., Destin. Noon. (850) 654-9771, premiumoutlets.com/silversands

Dec. 3

‘Fiddler on the Roof’ Join in the tears of laughter, joy and sadness as Tevya, a poor milkman, tries to keep his family’s beloved traditions and faith strong in spite of a changing world. $45. Mattie Kelly Arts 34 December 2012–January 2013

Center, 100 College Blvd., Niceville. 7:30 p.m.

(850) 729-6000, mattiekellyartscenter.org

Dec. 4

for the fine and performing arts. Village Baptist Church, 101 Matthew Blvd., Destin. 7 p.m.

(850) 650-2226, mattiekellyartsfoundation.org

Holiday Delights The Northwest Florida State College Madrigals, a select 18-voice mixed ensemble of scholarship vocalists directed by Allison Everitt, and Belle Voci, a select women’s ensemble under the direction of Lois Van Dam, will perform a variety of holiday music. Reception to follow. $15. Tyler Recital Hall, Mattie Kelly Arts Center, 100 College Blvd., Niceville. 7:30 p.m. (850) 729-6000, mattiekellyartscenter.org

Dec. 7

Dec. 6

Tee Off for Toys Donate new, unwrapped toys or gift cards with a value of $15 or more and in exchange guests can play Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort’s championship golf courses for just the green and golf car fee ($20). All donations will be given to Harvest House’s “Hope for Holidays” and Children in Crisis programs. $20. Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort, 9300 Emerald Coast Pkwy. West, Miramar Beach. For tee times call (850) 267-8155.

‘Music of the Movies’ Crestview News Bulletin arts and entertainment editor Brian Hughes speaks as part of the First Tuesday Lecture Series. FREE. Crestview Public Library, 1445 Commerce Dr. (behind the Post Office) in north Crestview. 10:30 a.m. (850) 682-4432, cityofcrestview.org/library.php

Dec. 6

American Advertising Federation (AAF) Emerald Coast Monthly Luncheon Cliff Courtney, chief strategy officer of Fort Lauderdale-based Zimmerman Advertising and founder of The Red Light Project, will give a presentation on trends, consumer behavior and brand development. $15 for members, $20 for non-members. Emerald Grande, 3rd floor, 10 Harbor Blvd., Destin. 11:30 a.m.–1 p.m. To reserve a spot, email rsvp@aafemeraldcoast.com.

Dec. 6–29

‘Every Christmas Story Ever Told’ From classics to new tales of the Christmas season, all wrapped up into a fun filled evening with laughter and music. $25 adults, $12.50 children.

The Seaside Rep Theatre, 216 Quincy Circle, Seaside. 7:30 p.m. (850) 231-0733, seasiderep.org

Dec. 7

Holiday Party & Art Auction Celebrate the season with area artists at a Christmas party. Enjoy an auction of unusual wreaths and holiday ornaments, as well as original artwork and baked goods. FREE. Arts and Design Society Art Center Gallery, 17 First St. S.E., Fort Walton Beach. 6–8 p.m. (850) 244-1271, artsdesignsociety.org

Dec. 7

Lighted Boat Parade This exhibit of illuminating boats on the Pensacola Bay water begins at Pensacola Beach Marina and ends at the pier behind the boardwalk and Quietwater Amphitheatre. Captains can compete for prizes as the beautiful nautical parade officially delivers Santa Claus to the island. FREE. Beach Marina to the Boardwalk, 400 Quietwater Beach Road, Pensacola. 7 p.m.

(850) 932-1500, visitpensacolabeach.com

Dec. 7

Sounds of the Season Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation celebrates the Christmas season with an annual holiday concert that’s a musical collaboration of several Destin churches accompanied by a community choir. Admission is an unwrapped child’s toy or book. A love offering will benefit youth development in art education outreach programs

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com

‘Holiday Pops’ The Northwest Florida Symphony Orchestra and Chorale and guest soloists perform a holiday celebration of the season’s most beloved music. $22.50 adults, $16 military/youth under 18. Mattie Kelly Arts Center, 100 College Blvd., Niceville. 7:30 p.m. (850) 729-6000, mattiekellyartscenter.org

Dec. 7–8

Dec. 7–9

‘Christmas Traditions’ The Fort Walton Beach Community Chorus presents its annual holiday show featuring singing, dancing, acting and musical accompaniment. Adults $12, seniors $10, children $8.

Fort Walton Beach Municipal Auditorium, 107 Miracle Strip Pkwy., Fort Walton Beach. Fri and Sat at 7:30 p.m. with matinees on Sat and Sun at 3 p.m. (850) 543-5298, fwbcc.org

Dec. 7, 14, 21, 28

Holiday Wednesday Night Concert Series Enjoy a special holiday edition of the Wednesday Night Concert Series through the month of December with entertainers who will tantalize your musical taste buds. FREE. The Village of Baytowne Wharf, 9100 Baytowne Blvd., Miramar Beach. 6–8 p.m. (850) 267-8186, baytownewharf.com

Dec. 8

Holiday Evening in Olde Seville Square Bring your blankets and hot chocolate to Seville Square to enjoy a concert outdoors under the oaks. FREE. Alcaniz and Jefferson streets, Pensacola. 6:30 p.m. (850) 438-6505, historicpensacola.org

Dec. 8

Luminara Run More than 2,000 luminaras will light the path for the 5K and 9K runners as community partners light the way to a safer place for victims of domestic violence in Okaloosa and Walton counties. Place a luminary along the course in honor of a loved one for a $10 donation to Shelter House. Advance registration for the 5K is $25 for adults and $10 for children; $35/$15 the day of the event. The 9K is $40/$15 in advance or $50/$20 on race day. Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort, 9300 Emerald Coast Pkwy West, Miramar Beach.

5 p.m. Register at imathlete.com. (850) 243-1201, sandestin.com

Dec. 8–24

Silver Sands Annual Charity Gift Wrap Sinfonia Gulf Coast volunteers will wrap your

socialstudies

SunVenture I at Baytowne Marina

Capt. Rick

SunVenture 1 Preview Event June 27, 2012. Water lovers helped christen the SunVenture I, a 45 sporty catamaran, at a launch party at the Baytowne Marina at Sandestin. Photos by Kay Phelan

SunVenture I at Crab Island Laurie Pitre, Caroline Hann

Rosemary Beach Uncorked Oct. 20, 2012. Wine and food lovers meandered through lovely Rosemary Beach sipping and sampling the town’s best.

Photos by McKenzie Burleigh

Ben Livingston, Cindy and Johnny Walker

Bill and Dixie Partington EmeraldCoastMagazine.com December 2012–January 2013

35

thecalendar holiday gifts while you wait or you can drop them off and pick them up at your convenience. $2–$15. The giftwrap station is located between Juicy Couture and DKNY and directly across from the Shopper Services kiosk.

Dec. 8–16 and Sundays noon–6 p.m.; Dec. 17– 23, noon–9 p.m.; Dec. 24, 10 a.m.–6 p.m. (850) 654-9771, premiumoutlets.com/silversands

Dec. 9

Rosemary Beach Unleashed Gather at this community festival to benefit Alaqua Animal Rescue and Rosemary Beach Foundation charitable endeavors. FREE. St. Augustine Green, Rosemary Beach. 1–4 p.m.

(850) 231-7382, rosemarybeachfoundation.org

Dec. 9

Surfing Santa Parade Holiday floats wind their way down Santa Rosa Island’s main street. Santa rides atop his red fire engine and visits with children. FREE. Via De Luna to Casino Beach, Pensacola Beach. 2 p.m.

(850) 932-1500, visitpensacolabeach.com

Dec. 9

Destin Harbor Holiday Boat Parade The Destin Harbor will be dancing with holiday lights and festive music during the 26th Annual Destin Holiday Boat Parade. The entire family will enjoy live music and children’s arts and crafts, along with hot chocolate with Santa Claus before the Boat Parade and fireworks afterward. Judging entry fee is $25. HarborWalk Marina, Destin. 6 p.m. (850) 837-6611, destinhistoryandfishingmuseum.org

Dec. 9

Southern Fare Dinner Executive chef Wayne Alcaide and chef de cuisine Lawrence Klang present a traditional offering of a Wild Game sourced regionally with fresh local sides to complement this healthy offering. $65/++ per person. Reservations required. Fish Out of Water, 53 Golden Rod Circle, Santa Rosa Beach. 7 p.m. (850) 534-5000

Dec. 10

Downtown Christmas Parade This family-friendly holiday parade showcases local area bands, the famous Blue Angels flight team and other various groups from Pensacola, New Orleans and even Houston. FREE. Downtown Pensacola. 5:15 p.m., coxchristmasparade.org

Dec. 12

‘Cirque Chinois’ Direct from Beijing, the National Circus of the People’s Republic of China presents a sensational evening of acrobatics, contortion, flying trapeze acts and more. $35. Mattie Kelly Performing Arts Center, 100 College Blvd., Niceville. 7:30 p.m. (850) 729-6000, mattiekellyartscenter.org

Dec. 14–16

‘The Nutcracker’ Ballet Pensacola presents an enthralling annual classic. Audiences will be treated to the music of Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky that accompanies the story of Clara and her dream of the Nutcracker Prince. $20–$32, Saenger Theatre, 118 S. Palafox Place, Pensacola. Fri–Sat, 7 p.m., Sun 1:30 p.m. For tickets, call (800) 745-3000, ticketmaster.com 36 December 2012–January 2013

Dec. 15

Abrakadoodle Saturday Art Class We welcome kids ages 2 to 12 to join us in our art studio to create a fun project the entire family will enjoy. $15. Destin Commons, 4300 Legendary Dr., Destin. 9:30–10:15 a.m. (850) 424-5058

night away and enjoy live bands and breathtaking fireworks as they light up the sky over the lagoon at midnight. FREE. The Village of Baytowne Wharf at Sandestin, 9300 Emerald Coast Pkwy. West, Miramar Beach. 7 p.m.

(866) 912-3224, sandestin.com

Dec. 15

Dec. 31

Paper Lantern Parade To celebrate the season, The Village of Baytowne Wharf and Abrakadoodle present a holiday-themed paper lantern parade. This community event will feature commissioned paper lanterns in the shapes of iconic symbols of the holiday season. FREE. The Village of Baytowne Wharf at Sandestin. 6 p.m. (850) 267-8186, baytownewharf.com

Dec. 28

‘Every Christmas Story Ever Told’ by the Seaside Repertory Theatre Bring low back chairs or blankets to enjoy this rollicking tour de farce! The story of the stingy and sour Ebenezer Scrooge is there too, but it seems the actors have overlooked “It’s a Wonderful Life,” so Scrooge morphs into Jimmy Stewart combining two of the greatest Christmas stories ever told. FREE. Fonville Press at Alys Beach, 147 La Garza Lane, Alys Beach.

2 p.m. (850) 213-5500, alysbeach.com/events

Dec. 28

Parents’ Night Out with Abrakadoodle Enjoy dinner out with the grown-ups! Bring the kids (ages 4 and up) and a sack dinner to Parents’ Night Out where they will enjoy art, games and a movie. $25 per child. Alys Beach Community Center, 60 McGee Drive. Alys Beach 7–10 p.m. (850) 424-5058 to register. Alysbeach.com

Dec. 31

Countdown Seaside!

Join your friends and neighbors in Seaside to celebrate the New Year in grand fashion. Beginning at 7 p.m., enjoy street performers, live music, face painting and art projects presented by Abrakadoodle. The event culminates with a spectacular fireworks display over the Gulf of Mexico. FREE. Seaside, from 7 a.m. facebook.com/seasideflorida

Dec. 31

Salute 2012 Join us for cocktails, a variety of gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches, white chicken chili and live music by Kyle LaMonica at Fonville Press. FREE. Fonville Press at Alys Beach, 147 La Garza Lane, Alys Beach. 11 a.m.–1 p.m. (850) 213-5500, alysbeach.com/events

Dec. 31

6th Annual Pelican Drop Families can enjoy a street-party atmosphere downtown with live music, a children’s area where kids can participate in the ever-popular bubble stomp at 8 p.m. and fireworks. The highlight of the festivities is a 10-foot, half-ton illuminated pelican that will be dropped 100 feet at midnight. Free.

Palafox Place, Pensacola. All day until 1 a.m. (850) 435-1603, pensacolapelicandrop.com

Dec. 31

Baytowne Countdown Ring in the New Year at The Village of Baytowne Wharf’s end-of-year party! Come dance the

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com

HarborWalk New Year’s Eve Celebration Dine, drink and dance in the New Year at the restaurants and bars throughout HarborWalk Village. Enjoy live music all evening on the Village Stage and a free headline concert. Celebrate as they launch the fifth annual ball drop descending over the Destin Harbor and say goodbye to 2012 with a festive fireworks display over the Destin Harbor. FREE. HarborWalk Village. 7 p.m.

(850) 424-0600, emeraldgrande.com.

Dec. 31

New Year’s Eve Cruise with Sunquest Cruises, SOLARIS Sail in to 2013 with family and friends with a gourmet dinner cruise aboard the 125-foot luxury yacht SOLARIS. The event features a four-course gourmet dinner, live entertainment, party favors and champagne toast capped with a festive fireworks display. $105 per person. Baytowne Marina at Sandestin, 9300 Emerald Coast Pkwy.

West, Miramar Beach. 8 p.m. (850) 650-2519, sunquestcruises.com

Dec. 31

New Year’s Eve at Seagar’s Celebrate the new beginnings of 2013 at an exclusive New Year’s Eve event at Seagar’s Restaurant. Enjoy live piano entertainment throughout your dining experience followed by a lively jazz trio band that will have you up dancing into the new year. Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa. Reservations available from 5–10:30 p.m. (850) 622-1500

Dec. 31

New Year’s Eve Fireworks End the year with a bang at the one-of-a-kind fireworks display over the Gulf of Mexico.

FREE. Palafox Place, Pensacola. Midnight.

(850) 932-1500, pensacolabeachchamber.com

Jan. 1

Polar Bear Dip The Flora-Bama Lounge hosts this popular, annual splash-around in the Gulf of Mexico.

FREE. 17401 Perdidio Key Drive, Perdido Key, Fla. Noon. (850) 492-0611, florabama.com

Jan. 1

Polar Bear Plunge Wade, swim and scurry in Santa Rosa Sound at Paradise Bar & Grill to the finish line where blackeyed peas await. $10–$15. Paradise Inn Bar & Grill, 23 Via De Luna Drive, Pensacola Beach. 2 p.m. (850) 932-1500, pensacolabeachchamber. com

Jan. 5

First Christmas in La Florida Celebrate Florida’s 500th anniversary and come see the arrival of Juan Ponce de Leon to Florida’s east coast during a special reenactment event to depict Tallahassee in the early 16th century, 1539-40, as “Grand Anhaica,” the capital village of Apalachee Province and site of de Soto’s winter

socialstudies A Decade of Academic & Artistic Excellence Sept. 26, 2012. Esteemed community leaders gathered at the Northwest Florida Ballet studios in Fort Walton Beach for food, wine and an evening of ballet performances to celebrate the NFB Academie’s 10-year anniversary. Photos by Rhonda Chaloupka

Don Gaetz, Alexis Tibbetts and Todd Eric Allen

Oanh Nguyen, Dawn Danjean

Dave and Carol Rauschkolb

Kevin and Deinse Greene

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com December 2012–January 2013

37

thecalendar encampment. FREE. Mission San Luis, 2100 W. Tennessee St., Tallahassee.

10 a.m.–4 p.m. (850) 245-6406, missionsanluis.org

Jan. 1–31 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

Quality Heart Care Since 1991

Coastal Branch Library Art Exhibit View the work of Lori Drew, an acrylic painter who specializes in abstracts.

FREE. Coastal Branch Library, 437 Greenway Trail, Santa Rosa Beach. Mon 9 a.m.–8p.m., Tues–Fri, 9 a.m.–5 p.m. (850) 267-2809, clayroadstudio.com

Jan. 7–31

Arts and Design Society Window Display Come drive by to see the folk art of Charlotte Ponto on display in the studio windows of the Art Center, fronting First Street in Fort Walton Beach. FREE. Art Center, 17 First St., S.E., Fort Walton Beach. (850) 244-1271, artsdesignsociety.org

Jan. 8–26

Arts and Design Society Annual Members Show and Open House Members of ADSO will exhibit works of their choice in the gallery throughout the month. At the Open House (Jan. 11–12), members will demonstrate their techniques in various media. Refreshments will be served. ADSO takes this opportunity to introduce the community to what it does and to increase awareness of its available classes and activities. FREE. Art Center, 17 First St., S.E., Fort Walton Beach. Gallery hours: Tues–Fri noon–4 p.m., Sat. 1–4 p.m. Open House: Jan 11 6–8 p.m. Jan. 12, 1–4 p.m., (850) 244-1271, artsdesignsociety.org

Jan. 12

‘The New York Tenors’ Enjoy an evening of Broadway, opera and American classics with three of New York’s greatest talents: Daniel Rodriguez, Andy Cooney and Michael Amante — the New York tenors. $35. Mattie Kelly Performing Arts Center, 100 College Blvd., Niceville. 7:30 p.m. (850) 729-6000, mattiekellyartscenter.org

Jan. 19

Pensacola Beach Run Compete in your choice of a 5K, 10K or half-marathon race that takes you along the waterfront on beautiful Pensacola Beach. Be sure to stick around the finish line after you complete your run for the post-race party. $30.

Casino Beach, Pensacola Beach. 8 a.m., pensacolarunners.com

Jan. 21–27

Sandestin Regional Bridge Tournament Come join in this fun marathon of card game playing all in the name of charity. $12 entry fee. Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort, Linkside Center, 9300 Emerald Coast Pkwy., Miramar Beach. For a tournament schedule, contact Audree Newman at newman@cox.net. (850) 729-0924. For room reservations, call (800) 320-8115.

Jan. 23

Arts and Design Society Luncheon Shelly Langshaw will present a program on combining artistic landscaping and edible gardening, using plants native to the region. Reservations required by Jan. 21. $12. Art Center, 17 First St., S.E., Fort Walton Beach. 11:30 a.m. (850) 244-1271, artsdesignsociety.org

Jan. 25

Sinfonia, Sibelius and the 7th (of Beethoven) Grammy Award-nominee Caroline Goulding returns to the Sinfonia stage to perform Sibelius’ epic violin concerto. The concert concludes with Beethoven’s rhythmically whimsical and inspiring Symphony No. 7. $29.50–$42.50. Destiny Worship Center, 122 Poinciana Blvd., Miramar Beach. 7:30 p.m. (850) 269-7129, sinfoniagulfcoast.org

Jan. 30

‘Hair’ This exuberant Tony-award winning production is at once a joyous celebration of youth and a poignant journey through a tumultuous 1960s America. $45. Mattie Kelly Performing Arts Center, 100 College Blvd., Niceville. 7:30 p.m. (850) 729-6000, mattiekellyartscenter.org

SAVE THE DATE!

March 16, 2013

Emerald Coast Cattle Barons’ Ball Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort, Linkside Corrall & Saloon, (850) 376-1551 ec 38 December 2012–January 2013

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com

socialstudies Emerald Coast Cattle Barons’ Branding Party Oct. 25, 2012. Cancer gets the boot from generous Emerald Coasters who gathered at Seagar’s Restaurant to raise funds and awareness for the American Cancer Society.

Photos by Rhonda Chaloupka and Kay Phelan

Jim and Cathy Lawrence, Don and Betty Hefner

Mary Kathryn Wells and Allen Sansom

Tommy and Lovelyn Silva with Rusty Sanders

Sally and Bob Theide

Amber Wiebe and Olivier Brouton

Jack and Candis Wilson

Diane Maldonado, Kelly Davis and Kay Phelan EmeraldCoastMagazine.com December 2012–January 2013

39

Dr. Bawa & Associates

About Dr. Bawa

BIO-IDENTICAL HORMONES

WHAT ARE BIO-IDENTICAL HORMONES? Bio-identical hormones are the hormones that are identical to what our human body makes.

These are more natural than Premarin, which is made from horse urine or other hormones that are synthetic and different from what the human body makes.

There are studies from Europe that show that these bio-identical hormones are safer than horse hormones and synthetic hormones.

We have seen that when people are switched from Premarin to bio-identical hormones, there is a marked improvement in blood pressure, sleep and general well-being.

WHY ARE SO MANY CELEBRITIES LIKE OPRAH AND SUSANNE SOMERS PROPONENTS OF BIO-IDENTICAL HORMONES? Bio-identical hormones are generic; they cannot be patented so there is no company marketing them and, therefore, many physicians do not understand how to prescribe them. Patients who have tried these bio-identical hormones feel so much better, and they generally rave about them as Oprah and Susanne Somers have. Not many physicians understand how to prescribe bio-identical hormones, so we have patients who drive long distances and fly in to get their hormones adjusted.

WEIGHT LOSS

WHAT IS UNIQUE ABOUT YOUR WEIGHT LOSS PROGRAM? We look at patients holistically to figure out what is keeping them from losing weight. Often, adjusting hormones with bio-identical hormones makes it easier to lose weight. We use numerous things for weight loss including HCG, lipotropic injections, Phentermine and natural supplements. We do not like Very Low Calorie Diets (VLCD), instead we use a healthy diet and exercise regimen while avoiding preservatives, gluten and other harmful substances.

WHAT IS METABOLIC TESTING? It is now possible to measure one’s metabolic rate to see if it is slow or not. We have a machine that calculates how much oxygen you consume (VO2) when you breathe and can calculate how many calories you burn at rest. There are several things that can be done to boost one’s metabolic rate if need be. We are the only practice in this area that provides this service, and insurance covers this test.

DESTIN 155 Crystal Beach Dr., Suite 121 Destin, FL 32541 850.424.7320 40 December 2012–January 2013

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com

Dr. Bawa is a Board Certified, Internal Medicine physician who has been practicing in the area for over eight years. Dr. Bawa has extensive experience in General Medicine, Bio-identical Hormones, Weight Loss and taking care of skin conditions through use of lasers. He is a member of the American Society of Laser Medicine and Surgery.

WHAT HIS PATIENTS SAY

“I feel so much better since I became a patient of Dr. Bawa. I am 59 years old and feel like I am 30. My hormones are finally in order and I have lost weight. I had a thermage treatment which has shaved a few years off of my face, without surgery.”

“Dr. Bawa rocks! He is one of the best doctors in the area and his staff is first class.

They are professional yet understanding and very responsive to your requests. I strongly recommend Dr. Bawa for your weight loss and medical needs.”

“All the staff at Dr. Bawa’s office are friendly and helpful. I feel so much better since getting on the bio-identical hormones. I highly recommend Dr. Bawa and his staff.”

“The doctors and all the people involved with my health are very careful and interested to see my health improve and get better! Thank you.”

“I have always been happy with Dr. Bawa. He has helped me a lot, and his prices are in line with everyone else. When I’m with Dr. Bawa, he spends time with me and actually listens to me.

Thank you!”

SANTA ROSA BEACH 45 Sugar Sand Lane, Suite A Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459 850.534.4170 www.drbawa.com

PANAMA CITY BEACH 1702 Ohio Avenue Lynn Haven, FL 32444 850.534.4170

“Optimize your health, your weight and your looks.”

A FULL SERVICE LASER CENTER BEFORE

AFTER LASER PROCEDURES

DESCRIBE WHAT YOUR NEW LASER PROCEDURES CAN DO.

REMOVE SUN SPOTS WITH LIMELIGHT 2 weeks after 1 treatment BEFORE

AFTER

• Our Limelight machine can reduce or eliminate sun spots and reduce redness and blood vessels on skin. Sun spots are a big problem in Florida, and Limelight can remove these without causing any peeling skin or down time. Limelight is a newer, more sophisticated version of Intense Pulsed Light (IPL), which is very popular in California.

• Pearl Fractional is a laser that has been shown to tighten skin and reduce wrinkles and loose skin. Though this treatment does cause peeling skin and some downtime, it has been shown to make people look 10 years younger with just one treatment.

• Pearl is a laser peel that kills off the outer layer of skin so better skin comes to the surface. It is much better than chemical peels because there are no harmful chemicals involved.

• The Coolglide laser removes veins on legs, face or anywhere else where there are visible vessels. Many people have spider veins on their legs, and our Coolglide laser can eliminate or reduce these with minimal discomfort.

LOOK 10 YRS YOUNGER WITH 1 TREATMENT 6 weeks after 1 treatment

Keri Matheus, ARNP

Jill Smith, PA-C

Dr. Nitin Bawa

Dr. Bawa and his staff practice general medicine but have a special interest in bio-identical hormones, weight loss, holistic medicine and lasers. They are the only providers in the area that accept insurance for these different treatments.

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com December 2012–January 2013

41

reinvented

lives How faith, love and tragedy compelled these locals to rewrite their life stories

By Danielle Buenrostro

l

ife’s about the journey and not the destination. Most of us have heard these wise words and perhaps have even repeated them a time or two. Although we know it’s sometimes best to take the path less traveled, it’s much easier said than done.

Motivated by personal tragedy, desire for a better life or a second career after retirement, there are inspiring people in the Emerald Coast who have lived those wise words by dramatically redefining their lives. Here are their stories.

Taking any leap of faith is a scary step into the unknown. Giving up a job, uprooting a family and wondering how to pay the bills are real fears to consider when making a drastic change in career.

No couple knows that better than Chris and Heather Thomas, owners of Destin Vacation Boat Rentals.

Chris and Heather have always been drawn to water. Growing up in Destin, both savor fond memories of childhood spent playing in emerald waters. Chris remembers working on his dad’s charter boat as a teenager and cleaning the catch of the day. Heather reminisces about crabbing with her grandmother on Okaloosa Island. Despite Destin’s lure, the couple decided to move to Jacksonville, Fla., to pursue a life of their own. With an eye for detail and the patience of a fisherman, Chris pursued a career as a network operations manager at AT&T Corporation for 13 years. Heather, who has the ability to put people at ease with her warm smile, saved lives as a cardiac nurse for seven years until she stayed home to raise their family. When AT&T bought BellSouth Corporation in 2006, Chris knew it was time to make an exit strategy.

“Things went down [in the company] fast,” said the 39 year old.

Chris’ dad’s health was also going downhill fast. At the age of 61, Larry Thomas, a charter boat captain who had fished Destin’s waters for years, was diagnosed with cancer and died six months later.

“I realized how precious life is,” Chris said.

42 December 2012–January 2013

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com

Water lovers, Heather and Chris Thomas, chucked their “day jobs” and dove head first into their vacation boat rental business. They are photographed with their 19' Cobia center console, the first ever rental boat to be entered into the Destin Fishing Rodeo in its 64-year history. Surely the first of many for these innovative entrepreneurs.

Photo by Scott Holstein

Build a Legacy

How to Quit Your Day Job

When professional life coach Desley Parker helps people through a career transition, it’s not only the fear of failure that holds them back, but also the fear of success.

“Fear stands for false expectations appearing real,” the certified trainer said.

“Eighty-six percent of what we fear never happens, and it’s a debilitating and draining emotion that helps us go nowhere. A little bit of anxiety is OK, but if it stops us from moving forward, we need to challenge it.”

If you’re not learning, growing or having fun, Parker said it’s time to make a change.

As a coach for 11 years, she has taken clients through a process to find their purpose in life and find a new job. The first step is identifying their values, priorities and skills/ talents. It’s also important to analyze salary requirements and geographical preferences.

“Paint as vivid of a picture as you possibly can of what the job is,” she said.

Once a client identifies his ideal job, she recommends he fill in the blanks with research into the skills needed for the job and if relocation is necessary. Parker added that telling your network of friends and family will increase your chances of landing the perfect job.

“When you know exactly what you want, the job pops up,” she said. “There’s probably someone out there that knows someone who can help you with the job.”

This process can take up to six months, but Parker tells clients to plan in advance for a transition, especially military retirement and entering the civilian job market.

“Think about retiring three to five years before you actually retire,” she said. “Plan your transition/change in as much detail as you would plan a vacation.”

As a retired Navy commander married to a retired Navy captain, Parker understands how veterans can feel like fish out of water. She encourages all clients to not let a down economy discourage their desires to quit their day job and pursue a new path.

“Even in a tough economy, it can be done and it is being done,” she said.

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com

December 2012–January 2013 43

44 December 2012–January 2013

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com

East Pass Marina at the Destin Harborwalk — where Chris worked with his dad on his charters. Coming back to his fishing roots proved to be a successful leap of faith for Chris, a self-proclaimed thrill seeker, and Heather, who found her new calling caring for families looking for fun in the sun. Together, they are an unstoppable duo earning well-deserved recognition from their customers as EC Magazine’s Best Charter Boat/Watersports category for the past two years.

“Small businesses don’t typically make it past the second year, so this was a huge accomplishment,” Chris said.

The Thomases are grateful to be in the “World’s Luckiest Fishing Village” again, raising their sons Drew, 11, Ian, 9, and Zach, 6, as the next generation of fishermen. The couple plans to take their business to the next step by expanding their offerings.

“We hope the good luck continues to follow us,” Chris said. “No matter what, we will continue serving customers the way they want to be served.”

Photos by Kansas Pitts

Losing his dad was the last push the Thomases needed to leave the corporate world, move back to Destin and start over.

Always the planner, Heather was skeptical and saw the move as a huge risk.

“Fear is paralyzing,” said the 35 year old. “If it was up to me, we wouldn’t have done it. But there was something Chris said to me: ‘You can’t steal second base if you still have your foot on first.’”

Within three weeks, an office on the water became available.

“We had faith those doors opened for a reason,” Chris said.

With three sons in tow, the Thomases moved to Destin and officially launched their full service boat and watersport equipment business in 2009. Whether vacationing families want to have fun tubing or wake boarding or on a high performance pontoon, a fish charter or a sunset cruise, Destin Vacation Boat Rentals delivers.

Within two seasons, the business doubled and outgrew its first location. Now life has come full circle as the business is located at the

Seize the Moment, Seize the Day

True partners in love and work, Ann and George Hartley's friendly restaurant, George's at Alys Beach, is filled with romantic metaphors, including menus branded with princely frogs who can choose to Behave or Misbehave.

When a fiery redheaded fashionista from Panama City links up with a tall, charming Texan, the chemistry is unmistakable — even after 29 years of marriage. George and Ann Hartley’s love story is one for the books, literally. It has been published by a local artist as an inspiring fairytale of how two frogs, Princess Ann and Prince George, found courage and strength to endure life’s hurdles and to count them all as blessings.

For years, the Hartleys would leave their home in Dallas, Texas, to vacation every summer at the Emerald Coast with a dream of one day retiring on the beach. Both were successful in the corporate world. George had been a banker, in the oil business and insurance.

Ann was the top salesperson for Xerox, owned a fashion line and managed a retail store. They were raising three kids in a very competitive, fast-paced environment in the big city.

In 1996, their world changed when both George and Ann’s dads died. They rented a house that summer for a month in Grayton Beach for a much needed break. During a discussion with the best friend of Ann’s dad, they realized life was too short to continue the rat race in Dallas.

“He told us if we have a dream to live it now, because there may not be a tomorrow,” Ann said. “I didn’t want to be in the corporate world anymore. We decided to get off that wheel for a simpler environment.”

So they called their realtor in Dallas to put their house on the market, and within two weeks it was leased. That’s when everything started to fall into place. With no real plan, the family planted roots at the beach while George commuted to Dallas one week a month for two years until he was able to work from home. Ann was also able to sell her business.

The Hartleys made a point to slow down, live in the moment and relish every life experience, including traveling around the world with their kids for six months.

One day, George went to get a drink at a restaurant in Seagrove known for serving the area’s best shrimp po’ boy. He overheard the owners talk about how they wanted to sell the restaurant. Without much thought, George asked them how much and bought the restaurant on the spot.

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com

December 2012–January 2013 45

He went home and told Ann the news. Ann was shocked, saying he had no clue about running a restaurant, but George vowed to learn from the ground up.

Now they operate that restaurant as Seagrove Village Market. Its reputation for serving deep fried love has been featured in the pages of national magazines like Coastal Living and Travel + Leisure. The couple have since opened two additional restaurants on Highway 30A: La Cocina, serving Mexican style fare, and George’s at Alys Beach, serving healthy organic meals.

“Customer service is all the same, whether you’re selling tires, clothes or a sandwich,” George said. “It’s all about the love, and it’s all about the customer. We think like the customer, and the rest takes care of itself.”

Ann said when they started their restaurants, their attitude was that failure would never be an option.

“Everything we’ve done is because we love it,” Ann said.

“If people did what they truly love, this [world] would be a happier place.”

One step into George’s at Alys Beach and it’s evident that the Hartleys and their staff treat customers with the same hospitality they would if they were in their living room.

“Part of loving on them is genuinely caring for them and forming relationships with our customers,” Ann said. “We want to give back to the world and lift people up.”

George and Ann are glad they took a chance and didn’t wait until retirement to live life on the beach.

“We’re still trying to figure out what we want to do when we grow up,” Ann said. “We’re having a ball.”

Pursue a Passion

After building boats for 35 years, John White of Valparaiso now forges metal for a different purpose, as a master bladesmith with an international following that has him booked up with orders through October 2014.

What started out as a hobby to pursue during retirement has quickly become a full-time job. The spry 69-year-old works in his home studio, which gets as hot as 115 degrees, melting and manipulating metal into works of art with the fervor of a youngster. White’s steady hands magically turn mundane metals into

Photos by Scott Holstein

Award-wining master bladesmith John White jumped ship from his career of boat building and into the fire to forge Damascus and carbon steel knives in his studio on the banks of Boggy Bayou in Valparaiso.

46 December 2012–January 2013

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com

intricate patterns and wave-like designs with ornate embellishments. Despite their beauty, these blades are also high-performance tools sharp enough to fillet fish but sturdy enough to cut down a small tree. Ask him a question about his new passion, and he’ll give you an earful. He appreciates the history of knife making and strives to preserve the tradition.

Over the past 10 years, White has made 314 knives, which he calls “jewelry for men.” It takes him about a month to make one “jewel.” Depending on the materials, the knives can cost between $1,200 and $5,000.

“I wanted to make something useful and beautiful with my hands,” he said. “It’s an urge most humans have. There never was a time in history we can find when humans weren’t making something pretty.”

Growing up the son of a building contractor in Austin, Texas, White has been working with his hands since age 12. By age 15, he was earning a full wage putting himself through college by building houses. After completing an anthropology degree, White said he decided to do what the “rest of the hippies in the ’60s were doing” — build a boat and sail away.

And that’s exactly what White and his wife, Jill, did for two years. They sailed up and down the Florida coast until White found work building boats in Clearwater Bay Marina.

The couple moved for Jill to pursue graduate school and work as a vice president of instruction at colleges in Pensacola and Seattle. Meanwhile, John continued to build countless small yachts and watercraft, even the 36-foot boat they lived in for four years in Seattle.

“Not many people can live on a boat together,” White said.

“Some people live on a boat and feel free with no responsibilities. Other people feel confined.”

After their sailing adventures, the couple finally settled in the Emerald Coast, where Jill worked and retired after 13 years at Northwest Florida State College, and John looked for a new hobby.

A friend who collected knives invited him to an Atlanta blade show featuring more than 600 knife makers.

“How many knives does a person need?” White remembers asking himself. “I thought it was absurd.”

Intrigued, White looked into the American Bladesmith Society and completed its two-week bladesmith course in 2003.

Within the first year, he had an exhibit at the show in Atlanta, sold four knives and had six additional orders.

By 2004, White proved his proficiency in his new craft by passing the guild’s high standards of knife making, going from an apprentice to journeyman. He also was recognized by his peers at the show with the Best New Knifemaker Award and the highly coveted George Peck Award for the Best Journeyman Knife. In 2007, he became a mastersmith, reaching the pinnacle of his craft.

“I inadvertently changed my life twice with no regrets. I didn’t intend to make changes, I was just following something I was interested in,” White said.

He continues to refine his craft at his home studio, where he forges metals like Damascus steel in 2,300-degree gas forges and pairs them with handles made out of mammoth tusk, walrus ivory and exotic hardwoods for knife collectors overseas. As a perfectionist, White will continue to challenge just how far he can take his craft with new designs and elements until his hands can do no more.

“I’m fortunate to be able now at the end of my work life to be making things that are very decorative. I create a reality in my work,” White said. “If you’re going to do something, do it well and do it right.” ec EmeraldCoastMagazine.com

December 2012–January 2013 47

Hope The Season for giving

Emerald Coast Children Deserve Our Best

Children’s eyes light up at the festive celebrations and magical traditions of the holiday season. Yet that sparkle is all but extinguished in children whose painful realities contrast sharply to everyone else’s joy. In America, one of the world’s wealthiest countries, where one-in-five children faces hunger throughout the year. That’s hard to believe on the Emerald Coast, where many people live out their dreams in upscale communities filled with palatial second homes along the Gulf. But just a few streets away in some of our communities an entirely different world does exist. Right here on the Emerald Coast some of our children live in poverty, suffering in silence and isolation while addiction, domestic violence and sexual abuse can rob them of their innocence and joy.

But there is hope … and help for our most vulnerable neighbors. Along the Emerald Coast, there is an abundance of local charities ready to reach out a helping hand, not just at Christmas, but year round. Here is a look at a few of the Emerald Coast charities focused on children’s needs and the services they provide. Additional initiatives are listed where you can help. The gift of hope that lights up the eyes of a child may be the best present you give this season — and one that lasts a lifetime.

48 December 2012–January 2013

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com

PhotoS by Howard Robinson

By Anne Schultz

e

Hattie Grace volunteers her time to help Emerald Coast kids forge a healthy, hope-filled path. (Below) Pathways Program Director Connie Bookman reaches out to the community to understand exactly what the kids in her youth program need most.

Pathways to Change

This private charity lives up to its name. By providing rehabilitation services and preventive programs for low-income families, it offers a way out of destructive patterns into changed healthy lifestyles.

“On the first day, I knew we would succeed when a little boy had so much fun he begged to stay all night,” says volunteer Hattie Grace in reference to the summer classes the organization started.

“Transportation can be a major problem for low-income families, so we went to the community center between two Pensacola low-income housing projects and asked them what they needed,” explains Connie Bookman, program director.

This resulted in summer classes that provide a safe, fun and supportive summer environment for kids aged 4 to 11 where they learn social and character-building skills along with creative projects and field trips. A retired schoolteacher taught them writing skills. “They wrote the most beautiful poems about their mothers,” exclaims Grace with pride. A professional singer put the lyrics of songs they wrote to her music compositions. Each day they talked about “character building words” like self-reliance, kindness and self-care. This valuable work continues throughout the year, with an after school-tutoring program held in a new community center the charity built a few blocks from the housing projects. They hope to add computer courses to keep students on the cutting edge of technology.

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com December 2012–January 2013

49

“They leave their worries behind when they walk through that door knowing they are safe and protected.”

Julie Hurst, Director Emerald Coast Children’s Advocacy Center

Marines Toys for Tots

Donate only new and unwrapped toys for age newborn to 16 through December. For drop-off locations visit emeraldcoasttoysfortots@gmail.com.

United Way Coats for Kids

Donate new and lightly worn coats through Dec. 24. For drop-off locations call Carolyn Folley (850) 243-0315 or unitedway.org.

Angel Tree at Silver Sands Premium Outlets

Visit “Families First Angel Tree” at Charity Gift Wrap Silver Sands to select a child’s name and gift suggestions, and return wrapped gifts to same location no later than Dec. 12.

For more information, call (850) 654-9771 or visit PremiumOutlets.com.

50 December 2012–January 2013

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com

Emerald Coast Children’s Advocacy Center

Glass-paned doors lead off a spacious front porch into the homey atmosphere of the Emerald Coast Children’s Advocacy Center where children and families who have experienced sexual or physical abuse can receive help as they begin to heal and recover.

Being able to offer a triage of support services gives families added comfort.

“They leave their worries behind when they walk through that door knowing they are safe and protected,” says director Julie Hurst. “It used to be children were shuttled from agency to agency, having to tell their stories each time.

Now we have medical, prosecution, law enforcement, protective investigators and mental health disciplines all under the same roof.”

They recently opened a satellite branch in Walton County with long-range plans for expanding it into one with full services. “We would like to start preventive programs in the schools. People don’t realize how many neglected and abused children are walking around them. More than 5,000 children have visited the center since October of 2000. Seven hundred cases were reported last year in Walton and Okaloosa alone,” says Hurst. She talks about how rewarding it is when she sees the children recover and come into her office laughing and happy. “It’s so much about restoring the childhood they have lost,” she shares. So does one little girl who wrote this in a letter to Hurst, “There are special people in this world who care about children and are willing to help the center, so it makes them angels.”

Children’s Volunteer Health Network, Inc.

Like many, Trisha and Mark Northcutt planned to take it easy when they moved from Memphis eight years ago. After raising a blended family, Trisha planned to reinvent herself as a painter and writer. But after living here only a few months, she met a little boy who changed the entire direction of her life.

PhotoS by Scott Holstein

Ways You Can Help Right Now

Before joining the Emerald Coast Child Advocacy Center (CAC) 12 years ago Julie Hurst (opposite) worked for the State Attorney’s Office and saw how inadequately child abuse cases were dealt with before the CAC existed. (Right) Dentist Stephanie Cook is part of a network of volunteer healthcare providers who help to brighten smiles and lives of Emerald Coast kids. (Below, from left) Caitlin Page, Shaye Smith, Stephanie Cook, Executive Director Zach Billingsley and Kimmy Matish are members of the Children's Volunteer Health Network Inc. team.

“I love kids so I volunteered at a church outreach, where I met this adorable child who tugged at my heartstrings even though he had a defensive attitude and a mouthful of crowded protruding teeth. I couldn’t shake the idea I needed to help that little guy. So I presented a plan to some like-minded folks, and Children’s Volunteer Health Network Inc. was born,” Northcutt explains.

This faith-based organization has helped more than 7,000 children in Walton and Okaloosa counties since opening in 2005. A volunteer network of more than 90 doctors, dentists, optometrists and mental health counselors deliver free comprehensive health services to schoolchildren without insurance. This includes a large population as 22 percent of the children in Walton County and 13 percent in Okaloosa have no health insurance. Sixty percent of Walton County’s families have no dental insurance. A mobile dental clinic named “Just for Grins” travels to elementary schools and performs preventive dentistry. In April of 2012, the charity built a three-chair permanent dental clinic for restorative procedures.

“It’s gratifying to see how all the charities work together helping each other out. I love knowing a seed grew into a tree, spreading branches of life,” Northcutt says.

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com December 2012–January 2013

51

The game room at the Fort Walton Beach Boys and Girls Club is a nurturing safe haven for local school-aged kids.

Studies reveal that only 30 percent of U.S. kids graduate high school compare that to a 90 percent graduation rate for Club kids.

Shelter House (850) 863-4777, emergency hotline (850) 243-1201, general information shelterhousenwfl.org Children’s Volunteer Health Network, Inc. (850) 622-3200 | cvhnkids.org Emerald Coast Children’s Advocacy Center (850) 833-9237 | eccac.org Boys & Girls Clubs of the Emerald Coast (850) 862-1616 | bgcec.com Pathways for Change (850) 202-0028 | pathwaysforchange.org Children in Crisis (850) 864-4242 | childrenincrisisfl.org Destin Charity Wine Auction Foundation (850) 650-3732 | dcwaf.org Food for Thought: info@foodforthoughtfl.org

Boys and Girls Clubs of the Emerald Coast

“It gives me goose bumps to see children progress, like when a child makes A’s now instead of F’s,” resource development specialist Erin Igram says of the after-school tutoring program at the Boys and Girls Club. Forty-five years ago, business leaders founded these clubs to empower CEO Jessica Jarosz local youth to achieve their full potential through programs that emphasize academics, healthy lifestyles, character and good citizenship. “The clubs are open to ages 5 to 18, and all classes and incomes are combined. This interaction teaches children it doesn’t make a difference where they live or their skin color. It’s their club, and they all belong,” says Igram.

The eight separate clubs in Pensacola, DeFuniak Springs, Fort Walton Beach, South Walton and Destin furnish a variety of facilities for after-school and summer programs. A new clubhouse plans to open in South Walton early 2013. Programs like art, dance, computer and education are held in separate rooms along with sports.

“Parents benefit too as children come home refreshed from playing outdoors and with their homework completed. Now they have quality time together as a family.

I can appreciate that as an only child with both parents in the military. I left a lucrative job to come here. I felt something calling me to do more and give more.

I made the decision with my heart, and I don’t regret it for a minute,” says Igram.

Shelter House

One in four women is touched by domestic violence each year. Think how many children’s lives are affected by that same violence. When homes are no longer shelters from the storm and become the very places where storms of violence rage, Shelter House provides a safe haven.

52 December 2012–January 2013

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com

PhotoS by Scott Holstein

Reach Out to Learn More and Get Involved

“A child’s world extends to the four walls of home, that’s all they know. Domestic violence affects their relationships throughout an entire lifetime.”

Michelle Sperzel, Executive Director Shelter House In 1988, a coalition of national women’s organizations formed the non-profit to stop the continuous violence against women and children in their communities. In 2010–11 alone, Shelter House helped 5,749 people. “We make it as comfortable and as much like home as possible, where everyone stays together,” Executive Director Michelle Sperzel says. Thanks to Purple Paws, the first ever on-site kennel in Northwest Florida, this includes the family’s four-legged members, too.

In Sperzel’s experience, the No. 1 reason abusers act out with violence is to gain power and control. Shelter House strives to give women what was taken away: freedom of choice. “We foster an atmosphere of acceptance and empowerment giving women the dignity to make their own decisions about what’s best for them and their children,” Sperzel says.

Providing a safe haven for a family can be a lifesaving legacy. “A child’s world extends to the four walls of home, that’s all they know.

Domestic violence affects their relationships throughout an entire lifetime. They are not able to form open loving relationships unless they receive help. Men who witnessed abusive parents are twice as likely to abuse compared to ones raised in non-violent homes.

These unhealthy patterns can pass down through generations,” explains Sperzel.

For that reason an advocate evaluates the needs of a child who comes to the home and offers services of counseling, youth support groups, interactive educational activities and youth economic empowerment workshops. Shelter House teaches preventive classes to local high schools and through after-school programs to educate children in having healthy relationships. Still, more public awareness is needed. We need to challenge old stereotypes and confront violent behavior. Parents need to dialogue with children about violence seen on movies and television. Think of all the children whose lives can be changed. ec

Pouring on a Generous Spirit

A spirit of generosity is uncorked at the annual Destin Charity Wine Auction where wine-enthusiasts open their hearts and wallets to support local children. Items such as Italian vacations and rare wines are auctioned off to the highest bidder; 100 percent of the total is donated to local children’s charities. The foundation raised a whopping $1.2 million dollars last year. Its overall $4.7 milliondollar contribution has impacted the lives of more than 34,000 children. It’s an offshoot of the Sandestin Wine Festival started 26 years ago by Chan Cox and Keith Howard. They started the foundation in 2005 to connect wine-loving philanthropists with local charities and held their first auction in 2006. As new foundation president John Russell puts it, “Most wine lovers are very generous people, and the founders saw an opportunity to connect this love of wine and generous spirit to benefit children in need on the Emerald Coast.”

Russell, who spent 32 years in the hotel business and is former president of Sandestin Investments LLC, stepped in when Todd Vucovich retired. “The foundation is getting national attention, and we want to capitalize on its success. We’ve been in phase one and are now moving into phase two with opportunities to expand. It’s inspiring to tour facilities and then see the impact the charities we support have on children. I’m amazed at the lovely residential homes Children in Crisis provide for children needing foster care. And impressed with Food for Thought started by a concerned school mom who realized lunches were funded by government programs but wondered what happened on weekends to children from lowincome families. She started in her own kitchen, loading six backpacks with food staples, and now they pack for 145 children in two elementary schools. It’s gratifying to see children succeed because they had a nutritious meal or their teeth fixed,” he shares.

The foundation applauds the determination of small groups to solve problems.

Having flexibility allows them to fund startups like Food for Thought without the barriers of more traditional funding sources. Russell suggests the best way for people to get involved is to attend public events like Taste of The Beach, the Tasting of Champions or the newest event — South Walton Beaches Wine and Food Festival.

With the community’s outpouring of generosity, and the foundation’s passion for helping children, chances are the foundation will reach its goal to be a top fund-raiser in the nation.

John Russell is president of the Destin Charity Wine Auction Foundation.

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com December 2012–January 2013

53

54 December 2012–January 2013

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com

the good life Food + Travel + Hea lth + Home

The Dassault Falcon 2000EX/2000 can seat up to 10 on transcontinental flights.

eudaimonia*

Photo courtesy NetJets Inc.

The Jet Set Life “I’m leaving on a jet plane … don’t know when I’ll be back again.”

Remember that old tune?

Everyone is singing the praises of the Emerald Coast’s elite air service at the Destin Airport. This destination now has several options for first-class air service to get you to where you want to go … in style.

NetJets is a gold-level company offering private service out of the Destin Airport. Individuals or businesses can enjoy the luxury of freedom and control of their travel needs.

Brian Hodges, senior vice president of sales in the Southeast, says NetJets’ value goes beyond any flight plan. “One thing money can’t buy is time. NetJets allows you to put more time back in your life to spend with family,” he says.

NetJets, which formed in 1986, pioneered the concept of fractional aircraft ownership. The owner enjoys the joys of access to jet service for a fraction of the price. (It’s basically like leasing

a car.) There are three programs: fractional ownership (largely purchased by businesses), fractional leasing (the least cash outlay) and the Marquis Jet Card. The fractional ownership is available in shares starting at a 1/16 increment or the equivalent of 50 hours of flying time per year. The Marquis program asks you to purchase packages of hours (25 hours at a time) and gives you access to travel worldwide.

Once you are an “owner” you can have access to a travel team 24-hours a day. There are 13 jet types to choose from. I had a chance to tour three: the Hawker 400XP, seating seven, the Cessna Citation Sovereign, seating eight, and the Dassault Falcon 2000EX/2000, the largest, seating 10. They were all luxurious and comfortable and manned by friendly, experienced pilots. The only question I was left with was, “When can we take off?”

Ah, the jet set life on the Emerald Coast! — Zandra Wolfgram

*happiness is ...

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com December 2012–January 2013

55

habitat

The EC’s Top

Holiday Trends for 2012

Local designers share their tips and tricks By Lis King

1

recreated in blown glass and all sorts of sea life glitters with gold and silver. “It’s lovely,” says Henderson, “and so right for our area.”

2

Back to Nature. Wreaths of seashells created by local artists are favorites of Pam Johnson of Barefoot Lawn Care, Santa Rosa Beach. She also likes to hang sand dollars, starfish and driftwood balls on trees and garlands, indoors or out. Woodlands are another favorite nature theme. This look includes pinecones, berries and twigs.

Glitz & Glam. “Ornaments extravagantly embellished with glitz are everywhere this year,” tells Kelly Porter of Porter House Designs, Destin. “It takes just a few to add an edge to more staid finery from previous years, so this is good for tight budgets.”

Theme’s the Thing. Crazy about TV cooking shows? Or fashion? “Then you’ll love the new cupcake, shoe and purse ornaments,” says Dorothy Creamer, editor of Selling Christmas Decorations, a publication for holiday retailers. “Look for other decorations that’ll tie in with favorite films, shows and interests. You’re sure to find them.”

6

“Green” Trees. Is an artificial tree, which can be used year after year, more “green” than a real one? That’s the current debate. Johnson says that real trees are “green,” too, when they’re composted. To make artificial greenery look more real she adds magnolia leaves. “Their sheen is festive and they are long-lasting,” she explains.

7

Take a Bough. Romair’s big find at the holiday markets is “arms” that clip to the Christmas tree. “They look somewhat like paddles, so they have a flat surface where you can display candles and other decorations,” she tells.

3

Man Trees. Now he has his own holiday tree. “You can decorate it with a broad choice of ornaments, from cowboy hats and boots to golf clubs and sixpacks,” says Mary Romair of GG Bloom, Destin. “Bows? How about camouflage ribbons?”

4

Going Coastal. The entire nation has gone coastal, and Shellie Henderson loves it. A designer with Destin’s Lovelace Interiors, she tells that decorations with sea and shore connections are especially plentiful this year. Crisp white starfish tie to the tree with turquoise velvet ribbons, Swarovski crystals add glitz to nautilus shells, jellyfish are 56 December 2012–January 2013

5

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com

Photos by Jacqueline Ward (tree and christmas arM) And Scott Holstein (glass art paintings

by Mary Hong) and Courtesy www.kurtadler.com (Shoe and purse ornaments)

Even Christmas, that most traditional of holidays, is subject to trends. New colors arrive from fashion runways, environmental issues come into play and pop culture inspires holiday styles. Here, Emerald Coast designers share ideas brought home from this year’s Christmas fairs, and naturally they’ve paid special attention to the decorations that’ll recall treasured moments along the shore.

9

Twinkle, Twinkle. While white lights remain favorites, aqua bulbs are coming on strong. “It’s such a good color here by the coast,” says Romair, “and it looks even better when the tree is trimmed with copper ornaments.” Johnson notes strong interest in animated lights.

“Think Santa’s helicopter landing on the lawn or dolphins leaping across the yard,” she says.

10

Personal Touches. What grandma can resist the toothless smile of a new grandbaby on a tree ornament? “People love personalized items,” notes Harkins. “And who can blame them? They’re a way to stand out in a massproduced world. At our shop, we create ornaments depicting kids, cats, dogs and sometimes just somebody’s name or monogram.”

11

Nesting for the Holidays.

Our feathered friends, from swans and mallards to cardinals and bluejays, land decoratively on holiday trees. Birdhouse ornaments are also indicative of bird watching’s high ranking on America’s hobby meter.

12

For Art’s Sake. There are lofty solutions for those who want statement ornaments.

Creamer tells of bone china creations plated in 24-carat gold or platinum. There are even ornaments that capture the artistry of the famous Fabergé eggs collected by the Russian czars. Expect to pay as much as $150 for such wonders.

8

Fashion Hues. Christmas colors have segued beyond red and green.

Fresh from the runways come turquoise, celadon and coral, all great hues for beachy homes. At the opposite end of the spectrum, you’ll see more dramatic combinations, such as the white tree with red ornaments created by Ashley Harkins of Design Avenue, Destin. An easy, elegant way to trim a tree is with decorative mesh, she says. The fabric comes in many colors, including stripes and metallics, for wonderfully graphic effects.

With stores bulging with holiday ideas, most of us are likely to add to our collections, but Harkins has a word of warning. “If you also have a lot of things from previous years, could be time to edit,” she says. “Don’t use everything you have. It could become a jumble. Instead, create vignettes — on tabletops and the mantel, for example — so you can really appreciate the finery.” ec (Opposite) Over-the-top touches such as these embellished heels and handbag ornaments give trees a little glitz; while elegant vintage family photos are charming personal touches (Left) These sparkling, coastal-inspired glass art paintings by Mary Hong at Lovelace Interiors are one-of-a-kind ways to add an unconventional nature theme into your holiday home decor. (Above) this stunning fir tree designed by Mary Romair of GG Bloom is resplendent in turquoise, one of the fashion hues on trend for the season.

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com December 2012–January 2013

57

0$'( 72 $'9(1785(

MADE TO TRAVEL 25 YEARS AGO ADVENTURE APPAREL CHANGED FOREVER. 'HVLJQHG WR EH DV GXUDEOH DQG IXQFWLRQDO DV SRVVLEOH RXU DSSDUHO LV GHVLJQHG WR KHOS \RX RYHUFRPH WKH FRQGLWLRQV :H VHW WKH VWDQGDUG IRU FORWKLQJ WKDW SHUIRUPV DV JHDU DQG WKH OHJDF\ FRQWLQXHV

58 December 2012–January 2013

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com

AVAILABLE AT:

625 Grand Boulevard Ste. #101 Sandestin, FL 32550 850-650-2174

gardening

Gifting Gardeners

®

Ms. Grow-It-All

By Audrey Post Ms. Grow-It-All

®

Choices Abound When You’re Searching for the Perfect Present for Plant Lovers

w

hen it comes to gift giving, gardeners are really easy to please. Whether you’re saying “thank you” to your holiday gathering host/hostess or playing Santa to loved ones who love to toil in the soil, you have plenty of options in a variety of price ranges.

I can say with near certainty that gift certificates from nurseries are always appreciated, and they’re available in most any amount you want to give. But if you still hear your grandmother’s cry of dismay at even the thought of a gift certificate — “It’s so impersonal, honey; it’s almost as tacky as giving money” — then take heart. You can select a gift that would make Grandma proud and definitely make the recipient happy.

You can’t go wrong with books about gardening. Local garden shops stock a nice selection of how-to books that are specific to our

region, USDA Zone 8b. Aspiring and seasoned vegetable gardeners alike will enjoy the updated second edition of “Down to Earth Vegetable Gardening Down South” by Lacy F. Bullard and the late Art Cheek. Bullard, a former garden writer for the Tallahassee Democrat, collaborated with Cheek on the first edition back in 1974, when he hosted a gardening show on WFSU-TV. Copies were so hard to come by that friends prevailed upon Bullard to re-release it, with updates, several years ago.

Local naturalist, writer and field botanist Gil Nelson has written more than a dozen gardening books and botanical field guides.

One of my favorites is “Best Native Plants for Southern Gardens,” published in 2010 by the University Press of Florida. “Daffodils in Florida: A Field Guide to the Coastal South” was the culmination of years of research by John Van Beck. His widow, Linda Van Beck, and daughter Sara took the data and compiled the authoritative work on daffodils for North Florida and South Georgia.

“Gardening for Florida’s Butterflies” by Pamela F. Traas identifies our butterflies as well as the larval and nectar plants they need for a complete life cycle. It breaks the information down by region — North, Central or South Florida — to create a handy primer for creating and maintaining a butterfly garden.

Many locally owned nurseries have gift shops brimming with garden-related items and artwork this time of year. Check out the

amazing collection of watering cans at Clay, formerly Eastern Lake Nursery on County Road 30A in Santa Rosa Beach. Niceville Garden Center offers a variety of garden art, tools and other items for gift baskets, as well as a selection of baskets. You might find a fun and funky remnant from Gaia’s Garden at Bad Girls Art Gallery in Fort Walton Beach, or a birdbath you want for yourself at Mike’s Garden Center in Gulf Breeze. While you’re there, pick up a copy of proprietor Mike Robertson’s book, “The Gulf Coast Landscape.”

A gift basket containing a few packets of seeds, a pair of garden gloves and a hand trowel is a project ready to be launched. On the relatively inexpensive end of the spectrum, you’ll find hand-held pruners, garden clogs and garden- or nature-themed jewelry. On the higher end, you’ll find elaborate raised-bed kits, rain barrels and garden sculpture. Rain gauges and thermometers that give the current temperature, as well as the high and low, can be both functional and decorative.

Does your current economic situation preclude spending much, if any, money for gifts?

Time and talent will carry you where treasure can’t. You can divide perennials such as daylilies and agapanthus and make gifts of the extras, weave a wreath from sturdy vines, or dig up and pot the crepe myrtles that have sprouted up a couple of feet from the mother tree. These truly are gifts from the heart.

Wishing you a garden of peace and joy this holiday season. 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.

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com December 2012–January 2013

59

in motion

An Aerial Artform on the Rise A fitness trend that is as individual as you are

w

ith the New Authement Dunnam. “There Year come new is a lengthening in my lumbar life experiences, spine every time, and it’s fun resolutions and getting off the floor.” a plethora of new trends. And one While aerial yoga strengthens trend that is literally on the rise in the legs and provides more of a the exercise arena is aerial fitness. full body workout, aerial silks Viewed as more of an art form require tremendous upper body than a traditional workout, this and core strength. The silks Cirque du Soleil inspired genre, involve two fabrics hanging which includes aerial yoga, aerial from the ceiling that aerialists silks and aerial hoops, is gaining climb to perform acrobatic traction nationwide and bringing tricks and poses. To learn this new highs to fitness and yoga art, aerialists start by climbing enthusiasts on the Emerald Coast. the silks with their arms, and Destin Pilates Center is the then learn to wrap and hook first to bring it to the Emerald their feet, waist and wrists in Coast, offering a level one the silks in order to spiral, swing A yoga devotee, Diane Page became interested in the teacher/training program that is and suspend from the air. art of aerial exercise after mastering the flying trapeze three years ago. Here she performs the splits on silks. attracting aerialists from across “When I do the silks, I feel the country. Aerial yoga has been like I am performing, and I get available on the Emerald Coast since October 2011, and aerial an adrenaline rush,” said fitness and dance guru Diane Page of silks and hoops made their debut in March 2012.

Santa Rosa Beach. “It’s the most incredible feeling when I climb Aerial yoga is a great option for beginners looking for a up there and find a beautiful pose.” gentle transition into aerial fitness. Performed on a soft fabric Another form of aerial fitness is the aerial hoop, also known hammock suspended from the ceiling, aerial yoga practices as the lyra. This steel hula-hoop type apparatus suspends from traditional yoga poses and allows for a deeper stretch since the ceiling and often has wrist holds allowing aerialists to use gravity is no longer in the equation. the hoop to perform acrobatics.

“Aerial yoga completely changed my awareness of yoga “You can crawl into the lyra like a girl in the moon,” said postures because you approach each pose with added support Page. “It’s difficult but also fun, because you are trying to and stability from the hammock,” said Lesley Vaughan, an balance your spine on a big hula-hoop. I’ve wanted to try silks aerialist from Los Angeles and instructor at Destin Pilates and the lyra for a long time, but until recently there has not Center. “This allows you to sink into the movements and forces been a commercial outlet unless you ran away with the circus.” you to use your core more, pulling everything up and in. Plus Whether you prefer the hammock, silks or hoop, aerial you can go upside down, which is awesome.” fitness is expected to be a huge craze and, according to Page, Imagine inverted sit-ups, standing poses with an extra lift it’s here to stay. or inversions without the need for a wall. Inverting in the “Aerial is all about individuality and is very much a new hammock lengthens and stretches the body, decompresses the art form that is personal, creative and individualized,” said spine and has been said to help cleanse the lymph nodes.

Vaughan. “You can tap into creativity that you never really get “Every time I go upside down, I feel like my back is to use as an adult, and aerial provides a whole new expression an inch longer,” said Destin Pilates Center owner Susan of who you are.” ec

60 December 2012–January 2013

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com

PhotoS by Scott Holstein

By Andi Mahoney

Page performs the Cobbler's Pose in a aerial yoga hammock.

For this pose, you start upside down and then revolve into this position. She is photographed at Destin Pilates Center, where she has studied aerial feats for a year.

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com December 2012–January 2013

61

62 December 2012–January 2013

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com

flavor

Delicious Holiday Brunch Dishes EC readers share favorite recipes guaranteed to warm up any gathering

By Stacey May Brady

T

hink of your three favorite things about the holidays, and chances are that enjoying your favorite holiday food is on the list. In every home there are holiday food traditions everyone eagerly anticipates. These are the dishes that elicit “oohs” and “aahs” every time they are brought out to the table and served on Christmas Day or during Hanukkah. For some families it’s about carrying on established traditions, and for others it’s about starting your own traditions.

Adrianne’s Breakfast Casserole Serves 6

Photos by Jacqueline Ward

½ cup Bisquick 1 pound shredded cheddar cheese 1 pound regular pork sausage 8 ounces sour cream 1 cup milk 2 eggs well beaten Brown sausage and drain. Mix sausage, eggs, cheese, Bisquick, milk, sour cream. Bake at 350˚ about 30 minutes until golden brown.

It simply would not be a proper holiday without Mom’s breakfast casserole or Aunt Libby’s noodle kugel or Grandma’s bread pudding with the special Amaretto cream sauce. Here is a selection of traditional holiday brunch recipes from some of the Emerald’s Coast’s loving mothers: Business owner Adrianne Brackett learned to make her sausage breakfast casserole from her mother, Linda Long, who learned to make it from her sister who kept the recipe a secret until she sold her catering business. Linda made the dish every Christmas morning and for brunch gatherings.

“I can remember having it when I was eight years old, and I always looked forward to it,” says Brackett, co-owner of Pure & Couture salon in Destin.

Her favorite memory associated with the breakfast casserole was making it for her best friend, for whom she served as maid of honor at her wedding.

“I made it for her special occasion, and that began my own tradition five years ago,” says Brackett, who adds that her young son, Easton, makes special requests for the breakfast casserole.

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com December 2012–January 2013

63

flavor Brenda’s Bread Pudding Preheat oven to 350˚

Pudding 1 16-ounce sweet bread round, with crust removed (optional) cut into one-inch cubes 8 large eggs 1 1/2 cup whipping cream 1 1/2 cup whole milk 1 cup sugar Mix together all pudding ingredients except cubed bread. Place cubed bread in lightly greased 13x9 pan or divide in half for two equal baking dishes. Pour pudding mixture over cubes and let sit for 30 minutes. Bake at 350˚ for 45 minutes or until pudding is firm when touched.

For Brenda Salvage, the origin of her family’s favorite holiday dessert came as she was trying to locate her grandmother’s recipe for bread pudding, only to discover it was never written down.

“As a kid it was such a treat. I remembered she used whatever bread she had around the house, including leftover bread. When I realized there was no written recipe I decided to make my own — just like she did,” says Salvage, who resides in Panama City and works in Miramar Beach as a property accountant for a large retail center.

In what Salvage calls her “experimental phase,” she began trying different variations of bread pudding recipes in an attempt to recreate her grandmother’s. Not every attempt was

Serves 8–10

1 package of wide noodles 1/2 stick unsalted butter at room temperature 1 1-pound container cottage cheese (small curd) 2 cups sour cream 1/2 cup sugar 6 eggs 1 teaspoon cinnamon 1 teaspoon vanilla 1/2 cup raisins Preheat oven to 375˚.

Boil noodles in salted water for about 4 minutes and drain. Transfer to large bowl and mix in butter until noodles are well coated. In separate bowl mix all other ingredients to blend with eggs, then pour and mix everything with noodles. Pour into greased 9x13 baking dish or two smaller baking dishes or muffin tin for individual servings. Place baking dishes on baking sheet with lip and add hot water bath to ensure even baking. Place on center rack and bake until custard is set and top is golden brown (about 30–45 minutes).

64 December 2012–January 2013

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com

Cook cream, milk and sugar over medium heat until boiling. In separate bowl, whisk cornstarch into liqueur and stir into boiling milk mixture. Reduce heat to low and stir constantly for two minutes or until thickened.

Spoon pudding into bowl and drizzle sauce over. Best when served warm.

successful, such as when she tried sour dough bread and it resulted in the eggs curdling. (“We ate it anyway!”) Finally, she used Hawaiian bread and the results were spectacular, making a memorable pudding with a rich custard texture and an addictive Amaretto cream sauce.

Jewish holidays offer a rich history of traditional foods. Noodle kugel is a staple in many Jewish families during the various holidays.

Destin resident Sherry Londe says it’s a dish that is passed from generation to generation and often prepared to feed a large group.

Photos by Jacqueline Ward

Sherry’s Noodle Kugel

Sauce 1/2 cup whipping cream 1/2 cup whole milk 3 tablespoons of sugar 1/4 cup Amaretto liquor 2 teaspoons of corn starch

“Like most cultures, when you include noodles you can stretch it to a lot of people,” says Londe.

The beauty of noodle kugel is that it is so versatile. It can be made sweet or savory; either as a main dish or side dish. Londe says she remembers eating it when she was four or five years old when her aunts on her father’s side prepared it every Thanksgiving.

With her own daughters now grown and living in New York and Los Angeles, Londe says her girls celebrate certain holidays with their friends, and inevitably someone will make a noodle kugel of some kind, though they say it is “not as good as grandma makes it!” Londe’s own mother still makes the dish.

Noodle kugel can be made in a lasagna pan and custard dishes or as cupcakes.

A freshly made cocktail is a nice addition to any holiday brunch.

A colorful drink with an assortment of condiments from which to choose adds a lovely festivity to the occasion. ec

Stacey’s Perfect Bloody Mary Serves two

1 11.5-ounce can of V8 vegetable juice 3 ounces chilled vodka 3 shakes Worcestershire sauce

2 shakes Tabasco sauce 1 shake celery salt ½ teaspoon horseradish (optional) Squeeze of one lime

Mix all ingredients well (shaking them is best) and pour over two ice-filled glasses. Garnish with choice of lime, lemon, celery, pickled okra or pickled green beans.

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com December 2012–January 2013

65

on the menu give generously g

gC CELEBRATE DELICIOUSLY

Fried Green BLT with homemade potato chips

A

re you in the holiday spirit? While out and about enjoying the hustle and bustle of the season, add in time to savor the flavor of these tasty items on menus along the Emerald Coast.

Breakfast

Candymaker, Miramar Beach

With Cantina Laredo gift cards you can treat friends & family to gourmet Mexican cuisine. Right now,

get a $10 GUEST CARD* for you when you purchase $50 in gift cards.

Let us make the holiday gathering perfect. Reserve our

PRIVATE DINING ROOM or let us CATER the celebración.

OK, when you can get a homemade caramel apple and a mimosa in the same location, that’s a sweet deal. Tom Ehlke, fondly known as the grouchy candymaker, has opened a new Candymaker Candy Store on Scenic Highway 98 near The Back Porch. We were pleasantly surprised to find our favorite meal on the menu — breakfast! We tried The Special — two eggs, biscuits and gravy, hashbrowns, grits and bacon (or your choice of ham or sausage). We topped off our “candystore” breakfast with a mimosa for $5. All we have to say is, “Cheers to the Candymaker!” $10

Lunch

The Dog House Deli, Pensacola Beach

The 1970s brought us psychedelic designs, bell bottom jeans, disco and lucky for Pensacola … wieners! In recent years, Pensacola Beach has gotten hip, too. Namely, for The Dog House Deli, a small cheery joint with counter service. We tried the Usual Dawg — a hot dog (available in four sizes) topped with chili, cheese and onions. They really hit it out of the park. Groovy! $3.50

Dinner

585 Grand Boulevard Sandestin 850.654.5649 cantinalaredo.com *While supplies last. Guest card valid Jan. 1, 2013 - Feb. 28, 2013.

No cash value. Limit 2 guest cards per person, per day.

Not available with on-line purchase.

66 December 2012–January 2013

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com

It’s easy to feast at the Cabana Café, because everything is good.

Located poolside at Aeriel Dunes condominium in Seascape Resort, it’s a tasty, hidden gem we were happy to discover. Cabana Café owner Wayne Anderson says they are known for their pizza, but we are partial to the Fried Green BLT. This sandwich features fried green tomatoes, crispy bacon, fresh lettuce, Creole mayo served on Texas toast. We paired ours with homemade potato chips (yes, we said homemade) served with homemade cilantro chip dip ($6.49). There was a movie called “Fried Green Tomatoes,” and we think this sandwich deserves top billing! $8.99

Photo by Scott Holstein

Grand Boulevard

Cabana Café, Destin

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 2012 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 Marie's Bistro & Bar Mediterranean. Enjoy made-to-order seafood, steak, pasta as well as sushi in a casual atmosphere. Dine in, carry out, drive through and catering. Full bar. Serving lunch 11 a.m.–2 p.m.

Tues–Fri and dinner at 5 p.m. Tues–Sun. 2260 W. County Highway 30A. 850-278-6856. $$ l d Johnny McTighe's Irish Pub Irish. A true neighborhood Irish Pub serving authentic Irish Fare and the best pizza anywhere.

Happy Hour Mon–Fri 4:30–6:30 p.m. Open daily 11 a.m.–2 a.m. 2298 W. County Highway 30A. 850-267-0101. $ B l d Blue Mountain Beach Creamery Ice Cream. Homemade ice cream, sorbet and frozen yogurt treats. Open daily 10 a.m.–10 p.m. Cash only.

2129 S. County Highway 83. 850-278-6849. $$

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

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

Callahan’s Restaurant & Deli ★ American. Voted Best Locally Owned Restaurant 2008–2012, 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 CRAB ISLAND CANTINA Mexican. Latin inspired Mexican cuisine in a casual waterfront dining atmosphere offering the best views of Destin Harbor. Mon–Thu 11 a.m.–10 p.m. Fri–Sat 11 a.m.–11 p.m. Sun 11 a.m.–9 p.m. 2 Harbor Blvd.

850-424-7417. $$ l d The Crab Trap Seafood. Offering fresh seafood, steaks, salads and soups beachside. Mon–Thu 11 a.m.–9 p.m. Fri–Sat 11 a.m.–10 p.m. 3500 E. Hwy. 98, 850-654-2722. $$ l d Cuvee Bistro ★ Fusion. Classic French, Asian and Mediterranean cuisine in a casually elegant atmosphere. Mon–Sat 5:30 p.m.–10 p.m. 36120 Emerald Coast Pkwy.

850-650-8900. $$$ d Destin Ice Seafood Market & Deli ★ Gourmet Take Out. Everything you need for a fresh and delicious meal. Choose from fresh fish and seafood items, pastas, salads and side dishes, Buckhead meats, decadent deserts, and an assortment of wines, cheeses, spices and more. Open daily 8 a.m.– 7 p.m.

663 Emerald Coast Pkwy. 850-837-8333. $$ 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 outof-this-world 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

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 Miller’s Ale House ★ American. Quality food at a great value price in a casual neighborhood tavern atmosphere. Mon–Sat 11 a.m.–2 a.m., Sun 11 a.m.–12 a.m. 34906 Emerald Coast Pkwy. 850-837-0694. $ l 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. $$ l d NOT JUST BAGELS ★ American. Bagels, breads, pastries, salads, soups and sandwiches. Mon–Fri 6 a.m.–3 p.m. Sat–Sun 7 a.m.–3 p.m. 4447 E. Commons Dr., Suite 112, 850-650-0465. $ B l Osaka ★ Japanese. Known for its sushi but serves a variety of dishes including chicken, steak and seafood. Lunch 11 a.m.–2:30 p.m. Dinner 5–10:30 p.m. 34845 Emerald Coast Pkwy., 850-650-4688 or 850-650-4689. $$ l d

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

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

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

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, 850-424-6744. l 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

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.

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com December 2012–January 2013

67

dining Specializing in on- and off-site catering including weddings, receptions and special events.

465 Regatta Bay Blvd., 850-337-8888. $ B l d 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 Tuscany Italian Bistro ★ Italian. Chef and owner, Guglielmo Ianni, prepares authentic Northern Italian cuisine using the freshest of ingredients, choice meats, fresh seafood, and garden vegetables. Hours TBD. 36178 Emerald Coast Pkwy. 850-650-2451. $$ 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

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. $$ l d Ali's Bistro American. Seafood, steak, pasta, chicken, veal, sandwiches and salads in a casually cool modern space. Tue–Sun 11 a.m.–9 p.m. 171 Brooks St., 850-226-4708. $$ 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., 850-243-9463. $ l d Clemenza’s Uptown ★ Italian. This family owned restaurant features authentic Italian cuisine, a full bar and Mama Clemenza’s famous European Breakfast. Breakfast: Sat 8 a.m.–noon, Sun 8 a.m.–1 p.m. Lunch: Mon– Fri 11 a.m.–2 p.m. Dinner: Mon–Fri 5­–9 p.m., Sat 5–9:30 p.m. Closed Sun. 75 Eglin Pkwy. 850-2430707. $$ B l d Helen Back ★ Pizza. The world’s finest hand-tossed pizza and cold beer in a sports bar atmosphere. Locations in Pensacola, Navarre, Crestview and Valparaiso. Open daily 11 a.m.–4 a.m. 114 Amberjack Dr. 850-796-1451. $l d

High Tide ★ Seafood. Delicious seafood dishes, award-winning gumbo and fresh Apalachicola oysters served for lunch and dinner. Mon–Sat 11 a.m. to 9:30 p.m.

1203 Miracle Strip Pkwy. 850-244-2624. $ 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 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 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 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 Staff’s Steak, Seafood and Pasta. In operation for more than 100 years, Staff’s is the oldest familyoperated Florida restaurant and a local favorite

2012

BEST HIBACHI

18 Hibachi Tables Sushi Bar • Private Dining Happy Hour Specials 4–7 Sushi Take Out Authentic Japanese Cuisine JAPANESE STEAKHOUSE & SUSHI BAR

850.351.1006 Located in the Village of Baytowne Wharf ™ 68 December 2012–January 2013

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com

850.650.4688 or 850.650.4689 34745 Emerald Coast Parkway / Destin

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. $$ d Picolo’s restaurant Seafood. Dine on delicious fresh seafood while listening to live music. Open daily 11 a.m.–3 p.m. and 5–10 p.m. 70 Hotz Ave., 850-231-1008. $$ 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. $$ B l d Trattoria Borago Italian. Enjoy a balsamic-laced pork tenderloin or pan-seared grouper from the open kitchen. Open 6 p.m. daily. 80 E. Hwy. 30A, Grayton Beach, 850-231-9167. $$ 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

RICHARD THOMPSON

Grayton Beach

TALLAHASSEE’S

PREMIERE

PERFORMING WED 1/23

7:30 PM RUBY DIAMOND CONCERT HALL

ARTS FESTIVAL

sevendaysfestival.org

for tickets 850.644.6500 HILARY HAHN

Sugar Mill Sweets ★ Bakery. Homemade baked goods and deli style sandwiches served in a casual atmosphere. Bakery hours: Mon­–Fri 8 a.m.–3 p.m. Lunch: 10:45 a.m.–1:45 p.m.

913 Beal Pkwy N.W. 850-862-9431. $ l

/SEVENDAYSOFOPENINGNIGHTS /7DAYSFESTIVAL /SEVENDAYSTALLAHASSEE

THU 2/7

7:30 PM RUBY DIAMOND CONCERT HALL

BERNADETTE PETERS

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

FRI 2/15

7:30 PM RUBY DIAMOND CONCERT HALL

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 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 Cabana Café.

American. A casual poolside restaurant serving made-to-order salads, savory soups and chowders, deli-style sandwiches (with homemade bread!), savory build-your-own burgers and quesadillas, stone-fired pizza, pasta and more. Sunday brunch. Full bar. Open 11 a.m.–2 a.m. Mon–Sat and Sundays from 9 a.m.–2 a.m. Happy Hour 11 a.m.–7 p.m. Karaoke and live entertainment. Located on the ground floor of Ariel Dunes in Seacape Resort, 112 Seascape Drive. Ask about the locals discount. 850-424-3574. $$ l d Cantina Laredo ★ Mexican. Boasting a contemporary décor and fiery flavor, the new addition to Grand Boulevard offers gourmet twists on Mexican favorites. Save room for dessert, and check out the Sunday brunch. Sun–Thu 11 a.m.–10 p.m. Fri–Sat 11 a.m.–11 p.m. 585 Grand Blvd., 850-654-5649. $$ B l d Carrabba’s italian grill Italian. Flavorful dishes, including calamari, chicken 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. $$ d Fat Clemenza’s ★ Italian. Feel like part of the family as you enjoy homemade classical Italian cuisine. Lunch Mon–Fri 11 a.m.–2 p.m. Dinner Mon–Wed 5–9:30 p.m., Thu–Sat 5–10 p.m. Holiday Plaza/Hwy. 98, 850-650-5980. $$ l d Finz Beachside Grille American. Wide range of seafood and American dishes. Catering available.

Open seasonally. Lunch daily 11 a.m.–4 p.m. Beachside at Sandestin, 850-267-4800. $$ l EmeraldCoastMagazine.com December 2012–January 2013

69

dining 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, 850-654-3911. $ 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 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, 850351-1990. $$$ l d The Melting Pot Fondue. Dip into something different and enjoy an interactive, hands-on, four-course dining experience with a cheese fondue, salad, entrée and chocolate fondue dessert. Open Sun–Thu 5–10 p.m. Fri–Sat 5–11 p.m. 11394 Hwy. 98., 850-269-2227. $$$ 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 Pepito’s ★ Mexican. Voted Best Mexican on the Emerald Coast.

Authentic Mexican cuisine, delicious margaritas and weekly specials. Open daily 11 a.m.—10 p.m. 11225 Hwy 98. 850-269-7788 $$ l d Poppy’s Seafood Factory Seafood. Enjoy fresh seafood, steak and poultry dishes with a view of the bay. Open 11 a.m.–9 p.m. daily. Village of Baytowne Wharf, 850-351-1996. $$$ l d

850-226-4111

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

70 December 2012–January 2013

Make life a little SWEETER.™

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com

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

SoWal So Good WHERE TO EAT IN SANTA ROSA BEACH

VKI Japanese

“If you think all Japanese Steakhouses are the same, you’ll think differently after dining with us.

Unlike some other places, we use only the highest quality ingredients so that you come not just for the intriguing knives and whirling shakers, but also for the hot and freshly prepared nutritional and wholesome food.”

Steakhouse & Sushi Bar

4552 US Hwy 98 W. Across from Louis-Louis 850.267.2555 vkisteakhouse.com

2012 Thank you for voting us “Best Restaurant in Okaloosa County!”

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com December 2012–January 2013

71

dining 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 all-day Monday Happy Hour special. Open daily 11 a.m.–10 p.m. 4585 E Hwy 20, Suite 100, Niceville, 850-279-4949. $$ l d

for all of life’s occasions

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–Fri 11 a.m.–3 p.m. for lunch and 5–9 p.m. for dinner, Sat 11 a.m.–9 p.m., Sun noon–9 p.m. Closed Tue. 95 Laura Hamilton Blvd. in Gulfplace (CR 393 and 30A), 850-267-2202. $ l d

fine art • events • commerical

people, places, things Santa Rosa Beach, FL • 850.502.9124 • shellyswangerphotography.com 72 December 2012–January 2013

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com

Basmati’s Asian Cuisine & Sushi Asian. Asian dishes and full sushi bar. Open 4 p.m. daily. 3295 W. Hwy. 30A, 850-267-3028. $$ d Café Tango American. Seafood, poultry and pasta served with specialty sauces. Homemade desserts. Open Tue–Sun 5–10 p.m. 14 Vicki St., 850-267-0054. $$$ 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 VKI Japanese Steak House & Sushi Bar Asian. Using the freshest ingredients this Japanese gem serves up tasty Habachi-style stir-fry meals of steak, seafood and chicken prepared at your table as well as artfully prepared sashimi and sushi rolls. Open daily. Lunch 11 a.m.–3 p.m. Dinner 4:30–9:30 p.m. 4552 Highway 98, Santa Rosa Beach, 850-267-2555. $$ l 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, 850267-2305. $$ l d

Seaside & Seagrove Beach 723 Whiskey Bravo American. Steak, seafood and casual “beachy” bites. Relax on the rooftop bar with Gulf view. Open daily from 11 a.m. Brunch on Sundays. 3031 Scenic Highway 30A. 850-213-0015. $$ l d 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 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 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

2012

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 December 2012–January 2013

73

the last word

Life is Like a Layer Cake

By Otmar Yakaboski

i

never feared if my children were to ask: “Where do babies come from?” After all, I actually know the answer to that question and as I get older, the answer can be richly threaded in modesty to the point where my children will nod with acknowledgement and have absolutely no comprehension of what they just heard. That’s what’s nice about being a well-read adult; you can recast a child’s awkward question without suspicion and then get back to thinking about adventure, life’s conquests and unintended consequences — oops, now we’re back to babies again.

The trepidation I have is answering those questions that are best answered with child-like wonder and child-like understanding. In other words, by becoming a child again. And, so come the questions of Santa Claus.

This summer we had the common ritual of an older cousin from out of town visiting a much younger cousin at home. The visit intersected lives that have shared common traditions, but few common personal experiences. That leads to the situation we all dread: a misunderstanding of traditional practice and those sticky beliefs that fuse what we practice and what we can imagine.

My daughter, now 11, is always at a tender age of reasoning and this summer was no different.

Her cousin shared no tenderness in her quite deliberate aim to prove she was an adolescent on her way to adulthood and knew exactly what Christmas was really about and why her presents looked to be repackaged from last week’s trip with mom to Wal-Mart. Her Christmas joys were tempered by the size of the shopping cart, mom’s checkbook balance and empty holiday cards. She made sure my daughter understood those facts of life and the fiction she drew in my daughter’s mind of the jolly saints of the season.

A terrible debacle? I thought so at first. Soon I began navigating a line of reasoning that would ease the sense of betrayal my daughter felt. It rapidly became clear to me that I had forgotten so much about being a child. A child’s fragile existence occupies an incomprehensible world where they may be best served in life by holding on to a few strong beliefs. As I explained to my daughter and son, their walk through life is like a cake. The truth is found in life’s layers: what we sense, what we hear or read, and what we choose to believe. How we portion our piece shapes our individual reality. I reminded my children and offered to my niece that we can make a choice to live our dream or live someone else’s. I assured them that although our dreams may be recast by circumstances from time to time, our beliefs never have to change.

Then, I asked them to grant me a holiday wish: That they think of their dreams in light of the belief of Christmas, not in spite of it. ec

74 December 2012–January 2013

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com

Young Natalie Wood and Edmund Green in the holiday film "A Miracle on 34th Street" reaffirms our courage to believe.

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com December 2012–January 2013

3

oys ter perpe tual subma riner date

rolex

oyster perpetual and submariner are trademarks.

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com December 2012–January 2013

3