Emerald Coast Magazine October-November 2012 Issue

The Emer ald Coast Maga zine

Beer!

It's Oktoberfest season, so we thought we’d fill our pages — and a stein or two — with a sampling of the pubs, brewers, beerladen events and recipes brimming along the Emerald Coast.

+

10 FOOD MYTHS A nutritionist helps us debunk the junk.

THE COUPON CRAZE How to clip and file your way to big savings.

CONGRATULATIONS ON WINNING THE BEST OF E your advertising, but there are a few guidelines to follow.

2012

» » No more than one logo use per ad. » Winning category may be incorporated into the design »

» » The 2012 logo will be retired on August 31, 2013 and may not be used in any advertising after that date.

However, in future advertising you are welcome to use

Please adhere to these guidelines in your advertising, as it is a courtesy to all current winners to have exclusive rights to the logo for their winning year. Ads that do not adhere to guidelines will be sent back for revision.

Again, congratulations on your award!

AND THE WINNERS ARE ...

Find out if your favorite restaurants, salons, hot spots, service providers and more were selected in your 2012 Best of the Emerald Coast Readers Choice Poll.

A HEALING HOME Fisher House is a haven for military families on the mend. $3.95

OCT-NOV 2012

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

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com October–November 2012

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EmeraldCoastMagazine.com October–November 2012

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Northwest Florida?

Yeah, we go way back.

Our world is changing. Again. Because we live in one of the nation’s fastest-growing regions, the need for a partner to guide you through this historical transformation has never been greater. With more than a century of combined experience, the law firm of Matthews Jones & Hawkins provides legal services across Florida’s Great Northwest. We are an integral part of our area’s economic development initiatives and offer representation in the fields of corporate and business law, capital restructuring, estate planning/probate, commercial litigation, real estate, land use, and personal injury. Matthews Jones & Hawkins: Remembering the past, seeing the future.

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EmeraldCoastMagazine.com October–November 2012

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Come Celebrate Your Winners!

The 2012 Best of the Emerald Coast Event

October 13th l 6–9pm Grand Boulevard at Sandestin® Brought to you by EC Magazine to benefit the Junior League of the Emerald Coast.

The 2012 winners will be on display at Grand Boulevard at Sandestin® The public is invited to an evening of food, fun, fashion and entertainment. Join us at our 12th annual event as we sample from the best restaurants, shopping and businesses on the Emerald Coast.

Tickets can be purchased at www.jlec.org $25 in advance ($35 day of event) A limited number of VIP tickets available online only for $40. For details, visit www.jlec.org.

6 October–November 2012

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contents

The Emerald Coast Magazine October + November 2012

F E ATUR Es

in the e.c.

60

The Best of the Emerald Coast Winners

17 Snapshot We say goodbye to the “mayor” of Eglin Air Force Base.

19 Chat Massage therapist Ann Rector has just the touch.

The votes are in and the invitations are out.

It’s time to toast the 124 winning reasons we

love the Emerald Coast. By Zandra Wolfgram

80

22 What’s Haute? Let’s go glamping!

25 Scene This is what we’ve seen and heard about your Emerald Coast colleagues, friends and neighbors.

Beer Here!

T he Emerald Coast is brimming with beer events, recipes and home brewers!

28 Personality Meet Pam Dana: community leader, charter boat owner and … cobia fishing world record holder!

By Thomas J. Monigan

31 Giving Back Fisher House is a healing haven for our military families.

Photos by Scott Holstein (p. 60); lawrence Davidson (p. 41) ANd Courtesy Harrah’s New Orleans (p. 95)

happenings 41 Spotlight Butterflies are free to fly … from Navarre.

43 Culture What your John Hancock says about you.

46 Calendar The concerts, theater, art exhibits, festivals that make fall eventful.

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

the good life 91 Eudaimonia We go bananas for this mom-and-pop retail shop.

92 Habitat How to cash in on the coupon craze.

95 Going Places We just bet you are going to love these three casino getaways.

101 F YI Pinterest! We pin down social media’s latest fad.

105 G ardening Climbing up the learning curve on planting trees.

106 F lavor The mystery is solved for these 10 food myths.

2012 Best Local Artist, Andy Saczynski

34

41

95

112 O n the Menu Just say cheese … biscuit!

118 A Taste For... Heaping on healing herbs and spices.

A word with You

TOP SALON

10 From the Publisher 12 Editor’s Note 14 Contributors 15 Feedback 122 The Last Word

Who is shear genius?

We reveal the top stylists on the Emerald Coast and the lucky model they will make over.

Follow us @emeraldcoastmag

111 D ining Let us guide you to savor the flavors of the Emerald Coast.

Like us at facebook.com/emeraldcoast

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com October–November 2012

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Vol. 13, No. 5 October–November 2012 The Emerald Coast Magazine

Publisher Brian E. Rowland Editor Zandra Wolfgram Designers Jennifer Ekrut, Laura Patrick, Saige Roberts, Shruti Shah STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER Scott Holstein Staff Writer Jason Dehart Contributing Writers Tony Bridges, Wendy O. Dixon, Jennifer Howard, Tracy Louthain, Lisa W. McKinney, Thomas J. Monigan, Lauren Morgan, Audrey Post, Liesel Schmidt, Janice Wade-Miller, Zandra Wolfgram Contributing Photographers Rhonda Chaloupka, Lawrence Davidson, Kim Jameson, Kurt Lischka, Bailey Miller, Kay Phelan, Modus Photography, Saige Roberts, Howard Robinson, Shelly Swanger, Zandra Wolfgram, Allison Yii, Gina Yra TRAFFIC Coordinator Lisa Sostre sales executives Rhonda Chaloupka, Tracy Mulligan, Frank Sandro, Chris St. John emeraldcoastmagazine.com facebook: emeraldcoast, twitter: emeraldcoastmag

President Brian E. Rowland Director of Publishing Operations Emily Bohnstengel Creative Director Lawrence Davidson Director of Editorial Services Linda Kleindienst Director of New Business Development Dan Parisi Production Manager | Network Administrator Daniel Vitter Marketing and Media Development Manager McKenzie Burleigh Administrator of Sales and Events Marjorie Stone Client Service Representative Caroline Conway Assistant Creative Director Saige Roberts Editorial Designer Jennifer Ekrut Graphic Designers Laura Patrick, Shruti Shah Production Specialist Melinda Lanigan Production Specialist Melinda Lanigan rowlandpublishing.com, facebook.com/RPIcreative Editorial Office 1932 Miccosukee Road, Tallahassee, FL, 32308 Customer Service & Submissions EC Magazine and Rowland Publishing, Inc. are not responsible for unsolicited manuscripts, photography or artwork. Editorial contributions are welcomed and encouraged but will not be returned. EC Magazine reserves the right to publish any letters to the editor.

Subscriptions & Availability $30 a year (six issues). To subscribe, call 850-878-0554 or visit emeraldcoastmagazine.com.

EC Magazine can be purchased at Barnes and Noble in Destin and Books-A-Million in Destin and at Sun Plaza in Mary Esther.

Copyright October 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

8 October–November 2012

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com

2012

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from the publisher Fun Can Make Your Team Stronger “Teamwork is the ability to work together toward a common vision. The ability to direct individual accomplishments toward organizational objectives. It is the fuel that allows common people to attain uncommon results.” — Andrew Carnegie Work at our company has picked up to where we’re going at a pretty serious pace again. There are a host of new projects to work on and a new member has joined the team — and both happenings are good news.

It’s easy to lose perspective when one is busy and moving fast, but the other day Emily, a new member of our management team, shared her excitement at being part of a dynamic team of publishing professionals who care so much about their job and the people they work with. It was one of those “wait a minute” moments where I realized how fortunate I am to work with people who have such a passion for what they do.

Let’s face it, life at the office often takes on the feeling of a Seinfeld episode as certain stressful times bring out a level of humor and commentary that makes you feel like an extra in a sitcom. It seems we deal with a neverending string of critical deadlines for our publications, and then there are the efforts the team puts forth to help our clients, a continual dance of dialogue, cajoling, reminding as we work to deliver a project that’s as good as it can be.

Humor is the salve that helps relieve the stress of our publishing world, and our team does it so well.

After working under some out-of-the-ordinary pressure the last few weeks, Caroline, a member of our team who has organized several social interactions for the crew, suggested we plan a kayak outing on the Wakulla River. Staff, significant others and families were invited to join up for a Sunday on the river.

With one team member nearly eight months pregnant and another not skilled in swimming, I towed my boat to the river, loaded with coolers of food and beverage, and we all set out by boat, canoe and kayak from T-n-T HideA-Way’s launch site for a journey through the “real” Florida. Along the way, we encountered a manatee family that was as curious about us as we were about them. For many, it was the first time having a personal encounter with this gentle giant of the river. There were plenty of turtles and at least one alligator sighting.

We made the two-hour journey up the river, lunched on sandwiches together and just spent some time talking about life, family and things totally unrelated to our work. I sat there looking at my co-workers, feeling a special energy and counting my blessings that I have great people to work with.

We spend so much time at work and with our co-workers that I believe making some special out-of-the-office time to enjoy some fun things builds a bond, a team and a “magic” that will help a company find success on so many levels.

Perhaps Rensis Likert, an American educator and organizational psychologist who helped found the Institute for Corporate Productivity, said it best: “The greater the loyalty of a group toward the group, the greater is the motivation among the members to achieve the goals of the group, and the greater the probability that the group will achieve its goals.”

— Brian Rowland browland@rowlandpublishing.com

on the cover

Crafty events, pubs and home brewers are pouring on America’s favorite frothy beverage — beer!

A Special Note: I am proud to share some very good news with you. At the recent Florida Magazine Association annual conference, Rowland Publishing brought home two awards in one of the most prestigious and difficult-to-win categories — Best Written Magazine (under 50,000 circulation).

We compete with most of the major Florida titles in this category. And for the fourth consecutive year, we have taken home an award in this group. 850 — The Business Magazine of Northwest Florida, which has won a medal in this category for four years running, took second place, and Tallahassee Magazine won third place. They were edged out by Sarasota’s Gulfshore Life. 850 also recently took first place honors for Best Trade/Special Interest Magazine in Florida in a contest run by the Society of Professional Journalists.

It is this recognition that separates our work from all others who try to emulate our publications. Congratulations to our editors, Linda Kleindienst from 850 and Rosanne Dunkelberger from Tallahassee Magazine, for riding on the high road where there is so little traffic!

10 October–November 2012

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com

THE EMER ALD COAST MAGA ZINE

Beer!

It's Oktoberfest season, so we thought we’d fill our pages — and a stein or two — with a sampling of the pubs, brewers, beerladen events and recipes brimming along the Emerald Coast.

CONGRATULATIONS ON WINNING THE BEST OF E your advertising, but there are a few guidelines to follow.

2012

» » No more than one logo use per ad. » Winning category may be incorporated into the design »

» » The 2012 logo will be retired on August 31, 2013 and may not be used in any advertising after that date.

However, in future advertising you are welcome to use

Please adhere to these guidelines in your advertising, as it is a courtesy to all current winners to have exclusive rights to the logo for their winning year. Ads that do not adhere to guidelines will be sent back for revision.

Again, congratulations on your award!

+

10 FOOD MYTHS A nutritionist helps us debunk the junk.

THE COUPON CRAZE How to clip and file your way to big savings.

A HEALING HOME Fisher House is a haven for military families on the mend.

Photo by Scott Holstein

AND THE WINNERS ARE...

Find out if your favorite restaurants, salons, hot spots, service providers and more were selected in your 2012 Best of the Emerald Coast Readers Choice Poll.

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com October–November 2012

11

editor’s note

Fall is the most fabulous time of year on the Emerald Coast. The lines at our favorite restaurants disappear, the water is crystal clear and temperatures cool off, tempting us outside to enjoy Mother Nature. Move over spring, fall is a great time for renewal and fresh starts, too. In this issue we take a look at several new places, faces, events and opportunities on the EC. October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and the 37th Annual Great American Smoke Out Day is Nov. 15. We take a moment to reflect on these important health issues with a story on Ann Rector, the owner of the REACH Institute offering healing through the most powerful medicine ever — human touch.

I offer some personal thoughts on my journey through breast cancer in The Last Word as well.

We toast Oktoberfest with a frothy feature story on beer — not only where to belly up to local bars but how to make your own batch, along with tasty recipes and a handy roster of upcoming local beer events.

Fall brings some of the most popular events on the coast: the Destin Fishing Rodeo and the Destin Seafood Festival.

We thought it a perfect time to catch up with Pam Dana, who graciously shared her secrets to success — in the boardroom, on the back of a charter boat and in life in general.

To mark Veteran’s Day, we honor the career of Col. Nodjomian, the “mayor” of Eglin Air Force Base, and the amazing military services of the Fisher House of the Emerald Coast.

In Going Places, we take you out of town to three regional casinos we “bet” you’ll love for weekend getaways. But you don’t have to go anywhere to have a great time.

The next couple of months are full of the “best” eventful happenings of the year. Join me Oct. 13 and Nov. 10 for the Best of the Emerald Coast and Emerald Coast Top Salon and get ready to party at the two coolest events in 2012.

Finally, if like me you find butterflies inspiring, be sure to check out our Spotlight on the Butterfly House Museum in Navarre. Their annual Monarch Madness event truly is special. Bring your family to learn about and help release hundreds of butterflies. Better yet, sign up as a volunteer. It will surely give your spirit wings.

— Zandra Wolfgram editor@emeraldcoastmagazine.com

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editor’s picks Here’s to Hope Here, here to OneHope Wine. The company donates 50 percent to partner charities benefitting a variety of causes.

Each wine is paired with a different cause.

Chardonnay benefits breast cancer; cabernet sauvignon supports autism; zinfandel helps our troops, etc. You can use this wine company to raise funds for your favorite charity as well. For more information, visit onehopewine.com.

Wheel in the Sky The sky’s the limit on Pensacola Beach these days. The 360 Pensacola Beach is the Gulf Coast’s first observation wheel and the world’s first 360-degree observation wheel to be situated on a barrier island. Riding 200 feet into the sky costs $15 for adults and $5 for children. A VIP gondola for four, featuring double flight time, leather bucket seats, a television, champagne bucket and a VIP souvenir T-shirt, is also available at $50 per person.

We like the way Pensacola wheeled this deal for sure.

A Fishy Business In honor of the Destin Fishing Rodeo this month, we wanted to give anglers a special note … notecard that is. We are hooked on Denise Creehan’s latest venture — inventive fishing-themed greeting cards. Each beautifully designed card includes a hand-tied fly lure and fishing-oriented sentiment that make the card itself a thoughtful gift. They come in a set of four different cards or you can purchase them individually. If you want to buy a card for the fisherman in your life or sell these novel cards, email denise@ hooklineandgreetings.com.

Photo By Allison Yii (Wolfgram) ANd Courtesy OneHopeWine.com

Falling For New Places, Faces, Events and Opportunities

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Gift certicates available on our website www.AsYouLikeItSalon.com | 850.664.2954 | 323 Page Bacon Rd., Mary Esther, FL 32569 EmeraldCoastMagazine.com October–November 2012

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Janice Wade-Miller W R I T E R

For eight years Janice has been a nutrition educator for the University of Florida/Pinellas County Extension in Largo, Fla., where she has assisted everyone from young children to senior citizens in learning about good nutrition, health and food safety. Janice is nutrition editor of GRANDS e-magazine and recently loaned her experience and voice to WTAL AM’s “Nutrition Matters” with Polly Spears.

▪ Janice debunks age-old food myths in Flavor.

Thomas J. Monigan W R I T E R

A career reporter and editor who has covered everything from Little League to big business in locales stretching from the Carolinas to California, Thomas’ “life changing experience” came when he first saw the Gulf of Mexico from the Navarre Bridge at age 26. He realized a longtime dream by returning to the Emerald Coast in early 2008.

▪ Thirsty? Thomas’ tasty feature on beer will make you foam at the mouth.

Liesel Schmidt W R I T E R

Liesel lives with her husband in Pensacola, where she spends her time writing and reading everything she can get her hands on. She currently serves as editor-in-chief of Bay Area Christian Family Monthly Magazine, is working on getting a novel sold and writes freelance for several local area publications.

▪ Liesel illuminates a valuable local military program with her Giving Back story on Fisher House.

P R E C I S I O N | R E F I N E M E N T | S TAT E O F T H E A RT | C U S TO M

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EmeraldCoastMagazine.com

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contributors

feedback

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

Here is a cell phone shot of my son, Carson Bryan Lester, reading the current issue of EC magazine with his photo on the cover. He was 8 days old in the cover photo and is now two weeks shy of 1 year old.

I wanted to share that he loves ripping through the pages of this magazine because of all the fun colors, and he must think it tastes really good (probably because of all the fun food photos in it.) He isn’t old enough to read it yet, so eating it will have to do for now, but my wife and Loyal EC reader (and eater) Carson I love flipping through and learning Bryan Lester admires his cover photo. about the beautiful Emerald Coast through your guys’ eyes. I am a postal supervisor for zips 32459, 32550 and 32541. I know we get, between those three zip codes, roughly 20,000 copies to deliver so I am thoroughly familiar with the magazine and so are my coworkers. Thanks for the support!

Bryan D. Lester Santa Rosa Beach I picked up a copy of EC magazine at the Seaside Post Office because of the cute picture of a little boy asleep on a baseball. This is the very first time our family has become aware of such a publication. We wanted to email you and tell you how much we appreciate such a quality magazine that showcases local goods, places and services. The photographs and the layout are so appealing!

Thanks again, Chris and Lori Suwak Santa Rosa Beach I just got a chance to read your Editor’s Note in the August/September 2012 issue of EC Magazine. Julie was such an incredible person. My Dad actually married her and Jim. I just wanted to let you know I appreciate you writing and sharing this — thank you!

You did an amazing job.

Lisa Comeau Santa Rosa Beach Awesome tribute to Julie Root ... you nailed it!

Manny Chavez Seagrove Beach

The August/September 2012 issue of EC Magazine is fabulous (as always). I just wanted to thank you for the opportunity to write The Last Word column about my great grandmother. It really turned out great, and she’s going to love it!

Also, Jennifer Howard did a great job on the piece about Bert Little (“More Than a Little Loyalty”). He’s such a wonderful person and we’re lucky to have him at the [Silver Sands Premium Outlet] center. The story turned out great, and I’m happy we were able to show our appreciation for one of the many employees that makes Silver Sands so successful.

Katie Johnson Destin

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16 October–November 2012

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com

in the e.c.

Peopl e + St y le + H y p e

Snapshot

Air Force Honoree Faces Next Challenge: Civilian Life

Air Force Col. Sal Nodjomian, commander of the 96th Air Base Wing at Eglin AFB, oversees more than 5,400 men and women on a site larger than the state of Rhode Island. The hard working officer credits his 2011 Department of Defense Installation of the Year award to those who serve under his command. “One of my favorite things to do is to get out and see the contribution my staff makes to our mission partners. They’re amazing people,” he says.

The accomplishments don’t stop there. The colonel and his wife, Carla, are recipients of the 2012 Air Force Material Command General and Mrs. Jerome F. O’Malley Award, an honor presented to a wing commander and spouse whose contributions to the nation, the Air Force and their local community best exemplifies the highest ideals and leadership of a military couple.

In July 2012, after nearly two decades of commitment to the United States Air Force, 14 relocations and two tours in Iraq, the colonel transitioned from military to civilian life. With the future in mind, the busy officer has been planting some Emerald Coast roots and looks forward to doing some basic things his family has put on hold for many years. “We’ve bought a house, and I can’t wait to unpack that one box that never gets unpacked. We’ve been hauling that box around the last 23 years,” he says. — Lisa W. McKinney

Snapshot

Air Force Honoree Faces Next Challenge: Civilian Life

Air Force Col. Sal Nodjomian, commander of the 96th Air Base Wing at Eglin AFB, oversees more than 5,400 men and women on a site larger than the state of Rhode Island. The hard working officer credits his 2011 Department of Defense Installation of the Year award to those who serve under his command.

“One of my favorite things to do is to get out and see the contribution my staff makes to our mission partners. They’re amazing people,” he says.

The accomplishments don’t stop there. The colonel and his wife, Carla, are recipients of the 2012 Air Force Material Command General and Mrs. Jerome F. O’Malley Award, an honor presented to a wing commander and spouse whose contributions to the nation, the Air Force and their local community best exemplifies the highest ideals and leadership of a military couple.

In July 2012, after nearly two decades of commitment to the United States Air Force, 14 relocations and two tours in Iraq, the colonel transitioned from military to civilian life. With the future in mind, the busy officer has been planting some Emerald Coast roots, and looks forward to doing some basic things his family has put on hold for many years. “We’ve bought a house and I can’t wait to unpack that one box that never gets unpacked. We’ve been hauling that box around the last 23 years,” he says. — Lisa W. McKinney

Photo by Scott Holstein

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com October–November 2012

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18 October–November 2012

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chat

She’s Got the Touch

Ann Rector is passionate about the healing power of massage therapy

By Zandra Wolfgram

A

nn Rector has the touch … healing touch, that is. In October, this engaging green-eyed brunette celebrates 10 years as a medical massage therapist. She is also celebrating the recent launch of a new facility on Mack Bayou Road in Santa Rosa Beach called the REACH Institute, which is an acronym for “respond, educate, attend, compassion and hope” — the mantra for her wellness business.

Though she holds a degree in physical education and kinesiology from The College of William and Mary, along with several medical massage therapy certifications, it was her thyroid cancer diagnosis in May 2011 that inspired Rector to custom design a treatment facility that takes a team approach to patient-focused wellness plans centered on healing through “compassionate touch” massage.

We sat down with Rector at REACH, which offers wellness consulting, acupuncture and five different types of massage therapy, including Rector’s specialty — pregnancy massage — to talk about her passion for taking a “hands-on” approach to healing.

Photo by Scott Holstein

EC: How did you get into massage therapy?

AR: When I became a single mom I knew I had to come up with a way to make my kids a priority, and so I needed to find something that would give me flexibility with my schedule.

Massage school was a great experience for me. It allowed me to focus my energy on a positive influence and other people.

EC: Being a caregiver, how did you react when you were diagnosed with cancer?

AR: I survived the Great Recession, the BP oil spill and the Mountain Drive road construction. I figured, if I could survive all that I could do anything!

EC: You went from caregiver to patient. Did it give you a different perspective?

AR: It changed my whole outlook on medical massage. As soon as I got back [from treatment at the Mayo Clinic] I became certified in oncology massage and trained my staff

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com October–November 2012

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chat members. It is such a blessing to be able to offer compassionate touch for someone going through cancer.

EC: How did your personal health experience influence the type of health center you ultimately opened?

AR: My experience with the Mayo Clinic really influenced my vision for the REACH Institute. They set up a team of doctors and created a plan that was patient-centric.

They listened and were compassionate and respectful. I thought there was a need for that here, so I modeled REACH after the type of care I received.

EC: What is the main difference between medical massage and a typical spa experience?

AR: Definitely the compassionate touch aspect. With oncology massage it is having a light touch and removing the aches and pains, but the most important difference is having the knowledge to know what to do and what not to do.

Many breast cancer awareness events offer free massages in chairs. That is one of the worst things you can do for a breast cancer patient is have them push their body against a chair, in a worst-case scenario it could cause lymphedema.

EC: What distinguishes the REACH Institute from other massage facilities?

AR: Education. Not only is our staff knowledgeable in soft tissue healing, but we educate our clients as well, and in that way they become a part of their own healing.

EC: How can locals best use the REACH Institute?

AR: We provide our clients a wellness regimen to incorporate into their other treatment plans, whether that is chemotherapy, radiation, Pilates, yoga or chiropractic care.

We work hand in hand with their physical therapists, chiropractors and personal trainers to create a plan that meets their goals.

EC: Where do you place massage within the healthcare spectrum?

AR: I say I want people to think about massage as a treatment not just a treat.

There have been so many advancements in modern medicine to diagnose our ailments, which is fantastic, but what is lost is the simple process of using our sense of human touch to heal.

EC: You spend your time healing others.

What do you do for you when you have free time?

AR: I run and pray at the same time … outload! So, I may look pretty funny, but that is my therapy. ec

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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

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what’s haute Let’s Go Glamping!

Get your glam on while camping this fall and enjoy Mother Nature without sacrificing any of the creature comforts of home sweet home. With these fabulous finds you can indulge your inner Girl Scout without fear. Who knows, maybe you’ll earn a badge for being fabulously resourceful!

Mix it Up

Toss that canteen and pour on the party with these new Harry & David drink mixes made with real fruit, natural flavorings and pure cane sugar. The recipe is right on the bottle, but you can also enjoy them in your sparkling water or over ice. Garnish with a sprig of mint, lemon twist or lime wedge. $9.95 at Harry & David, Silver Sands Premium Outlets

This elegant 14" x 20" platinum pillow embroidered with beads and crystals will have you resting easy. $180 at Lovelace Interiors in Destin

Nothing to Hide

Go wild in your tent with this stunning metallic silver zebra cowhide floor covering. $999 at Lovelace Interiors in Destin.

Spice Things Up

Just because you are roughing it doesn’t mean your taste buds have to. Perk up the flavor of your al fresco meal with a sprinkle of Paprika, Lemon & Lime seasoning from The Gourmet Collection. $3.99 at Marshall’s or dangoldinc.com.

Chef Tim Creehan’s Chef’s Grill Plus Instant Marinade allows you to grill like a gourmand on the go. Available in several flavors, including Original, Herb & Garlic, Lemon Pepper and Mesquite, 11 oz. $5.25 at Destin Seafood & Ice Market

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Trail & chair photo courtesy Orvis, Lantern photo courtesy Thermacell, Drink mix photo courtesy Harry & David, Mirror photo courtesy Sephora, Zebra cowhide, pillow, gourmet collection spice, Chef grill mates photos by Scott Holstein

Rise & Shine

Know When to Fold ’Em The Campaign Chair and Ottoman from the National Geographic Collection definitely gets our vote for must-have camp furnishings. This set, which conveniently folds up for easy portability and storage, has antiqued brass trim and comes in rich, bourbon-hued leather. Order the chair ($950) and ottoman ($450) at Orvis in Grand Boulevard at Sandestin (ships in eight weeks).

Pretty Pest Relief

You are used to multi-tasking on the go and so is the ThermaCell Patio Lantern. It is both a powerful insect repellent device and a stylish outdoor lantern, with both functions being usable separately or together. It is non-toxic, safe and odor free. The European-inspired lantern design is aesthetically pleasing with a wrought iron look for classic appeal. $29.99 at mosquitorepellent.com or Walmart.

Keep Up Your Image

Take time to self reflect on your trip with this Tarina Tarantino Jewel Mirror compact encrusted in glass crystals. $25. Available in Pink Pucker (pictured), Emerald Pretty, Jewel Mist and Lilac Crush at Sephora in Destin Commons.

Tailored Trailer

The 12-foot Silver Tear Woodie Camper (made in the USA) combines adventurous spirit with extraordinarily fine craftsmanship and styling. The surprisingly roomy interior is designed for comfort and convenience, with a custom mattress that converts to a sofa. The rear galley features a curly-maple counter top, a stainlesssteel cooler and an array of cabinets for storage and many other extras.

Reserve yours for $29,995 at Orvis in Grand Boulevard at Sandestin.

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24 October–November 2012

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well worded scene

Jessica, Giselle, Sonny and Sara Brasseur model Allison Wickey’s new T-shirt designs.

Photo by Zandra Wolfgram (Grand Boulevard Montecito 10) And Courtesy South Walton TDC (Moliterno), Kim Henderson (Fisher House), Ocean Jewel’s Images (Allison Wickey t-shirt) And Erica Manthey (Operation SMile)

Here are a few things we’ve heard about on the EC scene …

NEW NEWS ▪ Destin Commons has opened the area’s first Express apparel store. The store is located between Victoria’s Secret and Williams-Sonoma.

▪ Dawn Moliterno, executive director of the South Walton Tourist Development Council, has been appointed to the board of directors Moliterno of Visit Florida, the state’s official tourism marketing corporation. Moliterno is one of three new members on the 31-member board, which serves as the organization’s private sector governing body.

▪ Howard Group has entered into a joint venture with Simon Property Group, the world’s leading retail real estate company, to oversee operation of Silver Sands Factory Stores. Howard Group, the center’s developer, will remain 50 percent owner of the upscale outlet center and continue its role as managing partner. As a result of this new joint venture, the shopping center will be rebranded as Silver Sands Premium Outlets. Silver Sands will be the only Premium Outlet Center in Northwest Florida.

▪ Award-winning artist Allison Wickey has created a series of new shirt designs showcasing iconic imagery from Florida’s Scenic Highway 30A. The designs will be featured exclusively in A.Wickey StudioGallery, in various official 30A retail locations and on the new 30Agear.com.

▪ Local business community leaders gathered to attend the groundbreaking ceremony for the Montecito 10 movie theater, scheduled to open in Grand Boulevard at Sandestin in time for spring break 2013.

Bill Leitner, principal, Merchant Retail Partners; David Passman, chief executive officer, Carmike Cinemas; Keith Howard, president and chief executive officer, Howard Group

CONGRATULATIONS AND KUDOS ▪ The Ring family of Gulf Breeze recently celebrated their 40th year in business. Oscar and Ann Ring, along with their children, Jeff and Cheryl, have operated several wholesale and retail businesses between Crestview and Gulf Breeze, but their longest lasting venture has been the Buccaneer Gift Shop in downtown Fort Walton Beach.

▪ Florida Travel + Life Magazine recently named the Vue on 30a restaurant as one of the three “Best Waterfront Dining” spots in the state of Florida.

▪ Seagar’s is the proud recipient of the 2012 Certificate of Excellence from TripAdvisor. The accolade, which honors hospitality excellence, is given only to establishments that consistently achieve outstanding traveler reviews on TripAdvisor worldwide.

▪ The Emerald Coast Chapter of the American Business Women’s Association (ABWA) has named Tammy McDaniel 20122013 Business Associate of the Year. McDaniel opened Tammy’s Journeys, a full service travel agency, in 2011.

▪ A gazebo dedicated to honor the service of Col. and Mrs. Bill Mann, Jr. (USAF Ret.), was donated to The Fisher House of the Emerald Coast by the Mann family children.

Tom Rice, Marge Mann and Bill Mann

▪ The team at Pure 7 Studios photographed 111 people and four bulldogs, raising a total of $3,813 to benefit Operation Smile.

Lindsey Bray and Ryan Manthey As part of its local “Celebration of Smiles,” the Destin-based photographers helped change the lives, and smiles, of more than a dozen children.

▪ With the help of more than 350 different volunteers, Habitat for Humanity of Walton County has completed and donated its 24th home to the Harrigan family in Walton County.

▪ The Okaloosa County Commission on the Status of Women (OCCSW) recognized Carolyn Chesser, Trecia Chedister, Fritz Creswell, Sandy Duh, Gloria K. Frazier, Lill Jennings, Hulda Mahlum, Gail Lynn Meyer, Katie Matthews White Moody, Tina Nelson, Patricia Payne, Helen Hunt Rigdon, Kathleen Patricia Fleming “Taty” Saunders, Katie Sharon, Edna Spivey

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Back Row: Carolyn Chesser (accepted by Mike Chesser), Trecia Chedister, Gail Lynn Meyer, Patricia Payne, Helen Hunt Rigdon, Gloria K. Frazier, Kathleen Patricia Fleming “Taty” Saunders (accepted by Tim Saunders), Katie Sharon, Edna Spivey Sherrow Front Row: Tina Nelson, Katie Matthews White Moody (accepted by Edna Tidwell-Reaves), Fritz Creswell, Sandy Duh, Lill Jennings, Hulda Mahlum, Stacy Travis

Sherrow and Stacy Travis as the 2012 Women’s Wall of Honor honorees in the Auditorium at the University of West Florida, Emerald Coast Campus. The honorees’ names are placed on a plaque located in the library at the Fort Walton Beach campus, with a nearby book containing a biographical page for each woman.

▪ Devynn Tendrich, a 2012 graduate of South Walton High School, was awarded the 2012 Seabreeze Jazz Festival Scholarship of $2,000.

26 October–November 2012

Johnny Earles, Paul Petrulis, Dan Vargo

NEW FACES ▪ Kateri “Kitty” Whitney has been appointed executive director of Sandestin Real Whitney Estate. Whitney joined Sandestin Real Estate after serving as president and chief operating officer of the Walton Area Chamber of Commerce.

▪ Tyndall Air Force Base announced that Lt. Col. Gary Smith will assume command of the 325th Air Control Squadron from Lt. Col. Robert Grazulis. Lt. Col. Brian Stumpy will assume command of the 325th Civil Engineer

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com

Squadron from Lt. Col. Douglas Gilpin; and Maj. Brady Poe will assume command of the 325th Maintenance Operations Squadron from Maj. Christopher Cullen.

▪ Seagar’s Prime Steaks and Seafood recently introduced three new culinary-industry professionals to its award-winning team — General Manager Paul Petrulis, executive chef Dan Vargo and renowned chef Johnny Earles. This new team has joined forces to inject a fresh, contemporary flair in the AAA Four-Diamond-rated steakhouse, which has set the standard for fine dining along the Northwest Florida Gulf Coast for more than 14 years. ec

PPhoto by Allison Yii (Whitney) And Gina Yra/de Lush Design (Seagar’s ) And Courtesy Joy Todd (Wall of Honor)

scene

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April–May 2012 27

personality

Reel Enthusiasm Passion, patience and persistence are the secret to Pamela Dana’s successes

By Jennifer Howard

W

hen Pamela Dana hangs a “Gone Fishin’” sign on her office door, it doesn’t mean she is playing hookey from work. Quite the opposite, in fact, for this senior strategic advisor for the high-powered Florida Institute for Human and Machine Cognition (IHMC), and owner/operator of Destin-based Sure Lure Fishing Charters and cobia fishing world-record holder.

A California native — and Floridian by choice — Dana’s doctorate from the University of Southern California, and her master’s degree from Harvard, share space with her USCG Merchant Marine Masters credentials, a.k.a. captain’s license.

Her impressive resumé includes a list of board memberships, trusteeships, businesses and projects that might swamp your average high-powered executive. Add in her positions on the corporate board of Mercantil Commercebank, N.A.; University of West Florida Board of Trustees; as trustee for the Florida Chamber of Commerce Foundation; and voting member on the Gulf of Mexico Fisheries Management Council. The list

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continues, a rising tide that might overwhelm your everyday overachiever’s calendar.

How can she maintain an organized schedule, much less a semblance of balance, among all the committees and councils and meetings and commitments?

Only take on projects or work that fire your enthusiasm, or it’s likely you will feel pulled in too many directions, she advocates. “I don’t let myself sink into things I’m not passionate about,” Dana says. “I only go into things I enjoy.” The trim and tanned Holiday Isle resident admits that it can be a challenge to stay afloat among her many interests, avocations, businesses and volunteer positions.

“I have such a unique blend of things I’m involved in that I must be able to shift gears on a dime and keep abreast of all the relevant issues for all of them,” she says.

Like most here on the Emerald Coast, Dana was first drawn to the area’s beaches and waterways. After receiving her Ph.D., a 10-month fellowship in California’s Trade and Commerce Agency led to Dana being offered the position of assistant

Photo by Scott Holstein

agency secretary. When an election brought in a new governor in 1999, Dana petitioned then-incoming Florida Governor Jeb Bush for a job. She served as executive director of the Governor’s Office of Tourism, Trade and Economic Development (OTTED) until 2007. At OTTED, she oversaw more than 80 programs and partnerships, and held the position of the state’s chief protocol officer.

Catching the excitement

While working in Tallahassee, Dana had the opportunity to spend some weekends in Northwest Florida. When a gubernatorial election again mandated a change in her life, she decided to make Destin her home. She learned the Sure Lure, a 40-foot Infinity Sportfisher, was for sale. “Growing up in Northern California, we had a fishing camp on a river,” she says. “My father had a sports equipment store and was a fishing guide. My uncle was a commercial fisherman, so the fishing business made a lot of sense to me.”

In addition to the so-called “six-pack” Sure Lure (meaning she can carry six fishermen plus crew), the California-girl-turnedcharter-boat captain built her business to include the Fish Dish, a 21-foot Sailfish, for inshore and bay fishing. Her fervor for fishing goes beyond her record-breaking catches. “I really enjoy introducing customers to fishing,” she says. “No matter what size fish they catch, they really catch the excitement.”

Asked to share a tip with other fishermen, Dana circles back to her belief that being passionate about what you do creates success.

“It takes patience, persistence and luck, and be there for the love of it,’” she says.

Tele-commuting from Destin and owning her own business make it possible for Dana to maintain balance between her entrepreneurial efforts and her boatload of responsibilities at the IHMC. Make no mistake: She is equally passionate about the Institute’s high tech work as she is about catching record-shattering fish. She enthuses about an ongoing IHMC project to perfect a robotic exoskeleton that enables wounded warriors to recover their ability to walk. “There are only three places in the world with this kind of expertise,” she says with a significant note of pride.

Looking to the future

Her zeal for fishing has lured her into the public sector as well as private enterprise.

Dana was recently named director of the Florida Sports Foundation Board, which promotes amateur sports events, including water sports and fishing in the state. She

had returned from Tampa and a meeting of the Gulf of Mexico Fisheries Management Council just days before this interview. With one foot in each world, does she occasionally find herself awkwardly torn?

“I enjoy both,” Dana says. “I see a delicate balance between a strong economy and protecting the environment. Both commercial and sports fishermen are some of the most natural environmentalists. We can’t deplete our resources. Look at the popularity of catch-and-release (programs). I’m clearly not an advocate of destroying the environment for profit. We have to weigh science and economic impact. Fisheries management is very complicated.”

Her robust background in tourism and economic development provide a big-picture viewpoint as she oversees the day-to-day operation of her charter fishing business.

Dana is focused on a wave of tourism growth on Northwest Florida’s horizon. “All over Northwest Florida — from Panama City to Pensacola — we’ve opened the door to a new demographic: visitors from the Midwest and West,” she says. “I definitely see this part of the state having an increase in tourism. We all need to be careful how we develop the infrastructure here so when folks return home, they can look back on a good experience.”

Although her fondness for the sun and sand attracted her to Destin, this businesswoman emphasizes that it’s not enough to be a great place to fish and go to the beach. “We have to look to the future, understand the new demographic and tap into products and services that appeal to them,” Dana says, underscoring her strategic approach to growth.

No magic formula exists for success in tourism any more than in fishing. Sounding every inch the Ph.D. in International Development and Economics, Dana says, “We need to understand our visitors’ demographics, offer appropriately priced products for visitors and have excellent marketing.” It’s no silver bullet, but a timetested strategy Dana relied on when she led strategic efforts to rebound Florida’s economy post-9/11 and the hyperactive 2004-5 hurricane season.

Is there a secret to her multi-faceted success? “I just seem to be put in a place where doors open,” she says. “Success is never final. There is plenty of room for my business to grow.” Somewhere on a dock or a boardroom agenda or maybe even in a government bureau, another door is quite likely opening. ec

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com October–November 2012

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Wed.

Create a Unique Experience Aboard SOLARIS, the Best Wedding Venue on the Emerald Coast WEDDINGS | RECEPTIONS | REHEARSAL DINNERS | WEDDING COORDINATORS PRIVATE BRIDAL DRESSING SUITE | BRIDAL LUNCHEONS | ANNIVERSARY PARTIES Located at the Baytowne Marina in Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort www.sunquestcruises.com | 850.650.2519 Thank you for voting us Best wedding venue again!

2012

30 October–November 2012

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giving back

A Haven of Hope Fisher House of the Emerald Coast

By Liesel Schmidt

W

hen the Gulf War began, it brought the needs of wounded soldiers to the immediate attention of Americans, reminding us all of the sacrifices they make every day in pursuit of securing safety around the world. As more and more soldiers came home in need of medical care, their families were among those most deeply impacted by the horrors of war. Quite fittingly, the Fisher House program was begun in 1990 in an attempt to provide the families of hospitalized United States soldiers with the comforts of home.

During the past 20 years, the Fisher House program has grown immensely in both attention and support, opening houses at each major military medical center across the nation. After visiting a facility at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base in Dayton, Ohio, base commander Col. Dean Clemens came back to Eglin Air Force Base with a plan to open a Fisher House for the families of soldiers and veterans being cared for at the USAF Medical Center on Eglin. A determined Clemens then handpicked Magnolia Grill owner Tom Rice to help him get the plan in motion. Rice, a native resident of Fort Walton Beach, is a retired 1st Sergeant in the Army. Personal military experience drives this project home for him, so his role as president of Fisher House has been a natural fit.

Since opening in September of 2010, the House has hosted more than 700 guests, offering an environment of comfort and support when it is needed most. The House, with 12 suites; a sizable dining room spacious enough for 25 to 30 people; a large formal living room; restaurant-sized kitchen; capacious and well-equipped laundry; and a family room opening onto a covered patio, can

Photo by Scott Holstein

Makenzie, Bailey, Cameron, Kelly, Aaron and Tyler Hale are able to heal as a family within the refuge of the Fisher House on Eglin Air Force Base.

accommodate several families at a time –– whether they stay for days or months. The House is also fully handicap accessible, with the intention of accommodating the needs of visiting service members who might be in the midst of physical rehab.

Though wounded warriors and their families are given priority at Fisher House, the facility’s rooms are provided free of charge to “anybody and their family that has served,” says executive director Kim Henderson. As a constant presence at the House, Henderson has become very familiar with these families and the circumstances that bring them to the facility. “I love what I do. I get to see these families on a daily basis, and they’re not all the tragic stories ...”

Some of them have been exceptionally inspirational. One such case is the Hale family, who now reside at the Fisher House while Aaron Hale is in the process

of recovery from injuries sustained in an IED (Improvised Explosive Device) blast. “The shrapnel hit him directly in the face ...[His] right eye was completely taken,” says Kelly Hale, Aaron’s wife.

A long surgery to repair his eye just enough so that he could distinguish night from day was unsuccessful. Nonetheless, Aaron perseveres. “He’s pretty amazing,” says Henderson. “He’s not letting it take control over him,” adds Kelly. “He’s come a long way, and he’s doing incredibly.”

And it’s not only her husband who has faced challenges. With four children ranging in age from 19 months to 16 years, the Hales have had to learn a new way of living. “There were moments that I would use the word ‘struggle,’” says Kelly. “There are moments that I’ve used other words.

Each day is a new adventure for us, each day is a new journey. We’re learning how to live with this new lifestyle.”

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giving back A big help has been the presence and support they have received from Fisher Houses across the country. “Being in Fisher House has been very comforting,” Kelly acknowledges. “I never felt alone. I always have that constant surrounding of the other families and the managers. They’re always there, and they’re always smiling at you, and they always want to make sure that you’re okay. It takes a certain, special person to run a Fisher House. Not just anybody can do it.”

This is high praise coming from someone whose family has undergone such trials over the past year. As Aaron continues to undergo his recovery and additional surgeries on his eyes, face, ears and skull, he will take on a new role as an instructor at the Naval EOD (Explosive Ordnance Disposal) school on Eglin.

Kelly, who grew up in Pace, is happy to be back in the area. The Hale family recently learned that they will be receiving a home from the joint efforts of Building Homes for Heroes and JP Morgan Chase. It will be especially equipped as a Smart House for Aaron’s needs. In addition, Aaron and his family were honored with the opportunity to dine with the Obamas at the White House on the Fourth of July.

As the needs of military service members gain greater attention, so too will the needs of their families. These Fisher Houses, in their mission to provide a “home away from home,” offer help during a time when proximity is healing to both patients and their family members. “It makes a huge difference being in a Fisher House,” Kelly emphasizes. “It’s not our home, but it’s a second home. It’s a pretty fantastic place to be. Not only because it’s comforting, but also because you have some amazing people. No matter what you’re going through, you’re going to have comfort. They really care.”

Each House represents the support of the community, a “thank you” for all the ways we have been served as a nation by our service members and the families that serve alongside them. ec

How You Can Help

There are several ways you can support the Fisher House of the Emerald Coast.

Donations are tax deductible and can be made online at fisherhouseemeraldcoast.org or mailed to: Fisher House of the Emerald Coast, P.O. Box 2007, Eglin AFB, Florida 32542.

Volunteers are also greatly needed.

Download an application online.

For more details on how you can help, call (850) 883-8072.

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A Living Museum of ... Wildlife, History, Education and Exploration

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the

“before”

PRESENTING SPONSOR: BLUEWATER PLASTIC SURGERY

NOVEMBER 10, 2012, 6pm at the Sandestin Golf and Beach resort

PRESENTING SPONSOR:

Presented by:

Thanks to your nominations, 10 of the best salons on the Emerald Coast have been chosen to compete for the title of Top Salon of the Emerald Coast! This spread features all salon finalists with their chosen model’s “before” shots. These salons will only have 24 hours to transform their models for this second annual Top Salon runway show on November 10th where a panel of judges and all attendees will cast their vote to determine the Top Salon of the Emerald Coast.

Tickets are $50 and include two drink coupons, heavy hors d’oeuvres and automatic entry to win a three-day/two-night getaway.

Visit TopSalonEC.com to purchase your tickets before they sell out.

The Top Salon of the Emerald Coast wins an advertising campaign developed by Rowland Publishing and a year-long ad campaign in EC Magazine. Plus, a portion of the proceeds will benefit the winning salon’s favorite charity.

Your favorite salon cannot win unless you attend the event and vote!

Photos by Katrice Howell

34 October–November 2012

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com

Presented by: bluewater plastic surgery PRESENTING SPONSOR: BLUEWATER PLASTIC SURGERY

Avantgarde Salon & Spa

C’est La Vie Salon

model: Annette Riley | charity: Emerald Coast Humanity Outreach

Model: Debbie Jackson | Charity: Taylor Haugen Foundation EmeraldCoastMagazine.com

October–November 2012 35

Presented by: bluewater plastic surgery PRESENTING SPONSOR: BLUEWATER PLASTIC SURGERY

model: Sarah A. Wiley | charity: Wounded Warrior Project

Photo courtesy Bliss Salon of Destin

The Cutting Room Salon & Spa

Bliss Salon of Destin 36 October–November 2012

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com

model: Danielle Rogers | charity: Children in Crisis Inc.

Pure & Co.uture Salon

JS Salon & Studio

model: Erika Scannell | charity: William Ryan Foundation

Model: Jordan Rode | Charity: Food for Thought EmeraldCoastMagazine.com

October–November 2012 37

Presented by: bluewater plastic surgery PRESENTING SPONSOR: BLUEWATER PLASTIC SURGERY

YaYa’s Salon

model: Heather Barrett | charity: Habitat for Humanity

Salon Twist

Model: Kristen Mitchell | Charity: The Shelter House

38 October–November 2012

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com

As You Like It Salon & Spa

The Grove Salon & Boutique

model: Lori Bennett | charity: Horizens of Okaloosa

model: Stephanie McMinn | charity: Sinfonia Gulf Coast EmeraldCoastMagazine.com

October–November 2012 39

WHAT IS A CONTEMPO SPA?

We offer luxurious spa services without the luxury price tag.

The Contempo Spa concept offers automated spa services and high-quality skin care therapies and products. Our state-of-the-art services range from light therapy facials, full body red light, liquid vitamin steam baths, detoxification, massage, oxygen therapy, teeth whitening and sunless color.

850.424.7400

40 October–November 2012

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Located between Barnes and Noble and Outback Steakhouse

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com

happenings Events + Culture + Causes

spotlight

Monarch Madness Festival

As Elton John’s song says, “Butterflies are free to fly.” Since 1997, the Panhandle Butterfly House — a non-profit organization founded in Navarre by Jack and Fonda Wetherell — is a conservation attraction that sees to just that. This interactive exhibit is housed in a pale cream butterfly bedazzled cottage on Highway 98 at the foot of the Navarre Bridge. It features educational displays, a butterfly garden for migrating butterflies and serves as a nursery for local butterfly species, such as Florida’s state butterfly, the Zebra Longwing.

Each October, museum volunteers — who teach classes in butterfly gardening, habitat conservation and ecosystem management — host an annual Monarch Madness migration celebration event. This year’s festival is Oct. 12–13 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and will feature educational exhibits, butterfly-related crafts, a kid’s photo contest and, of course, the highly-anticipated business of butterfly tagging and releasing inside the butterfly garden.

The event is open to the public and admission is free, but donations are appreciated. For more information about this special event or becoming a volunteer, visit panhandlebutterflyhouse.org or call (850) 623-3868.

Like the life cycle of a butterfly, this event will pass by all too quickly, so be sure to mark your calendars and be prepared to be completely delighted. — Zandra Wolfgram

Photo by Lawrence Davidson

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42 October–November 2012

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2012

culture

Your Signature:

Yes, Neatness Counts

By Tony Bridges

h

ave you ever considered how you sign your name, or the pen you use to do it?

If you’re like a lot of people, your signature is an illegible scrawl that you scratch out in a hurry when you finish a letter, fill out a document or write a check. You’ve written your name so many times in your life — hundreds, at least, probably thousands — that it’s just a rote process.

Does it really matter what it looks like?

Maybe. Maybe not. But there are people who believe signatures communicate a great deal about you, either positive or negative.

And, you have to admit, your name is just about the most personal thing you can ever put down on paper.

“I consider your signature a little bit like stagecraft,” said Susan Wirth, a nationally recognized pen expert who specializes in matching clients with the right pen. “In other words, it’s an opportunity to convey anything you want.”

So, if you’d like to start making a statement with your signature, there are three things you need to consider: the ink, the pen and the style with which you write.

Settling on the right color and consistency To begin with, forget about using ordinary ballpoint pens for important signatures. It’s bland and sticky and too easy to smudge.

Plus, the pressure you have to apply to put ballpoint ink on paper will make ugly indentations you might not want on business documents or correspondence.

For a bold, professional signature, you want to use a good quality gel or a liquid ink of the

type found in rollerballs and fountain pens. If you use a liquid ink, make sure to sign your name in a smooth, flowing hand, without hesitations, to avoid leaving blots in your signature.

For professional documents, go with black or blue ink. Black is the preferred color for many companies and government offices, especially on legal documents, and, in some cases, is actually required. However, you might want to consider using blue ink to sign original documents since it can be difficult to distinguish between an original signed in black ink and a photocopy.

If you’re concerned about the security or longevity of your signature, Uniball pens using Uni Super Ink — which comes in black, blue and red — are marketed as resistant to tampering, fading and running. For fountain pen users, Noodler’s Ink offers several “bulletproof” inks that are known for being all but impossible to remove from paper.

The color of ink you use for personal documents like letters or journals obviously matters far less. Actually, branding experts even recommend selecting a vibrant color as a way of establishing your own brand identity. Using a single color like green or purple for all of your personal correspondence is a simple way of distinguishing yourself.

The right professional accessory Use a pen with a medium or broad point for a strong, confident signature.

A fountain pen is an excellent choice for producing a professional signature that has a little extra panache, especially if you use a pen with an italic nib or one with a nice

flex nib like the Namiki Falcon. The general consensus seems to be that your signature almost immediately becomes more legible when using a fountain pen. And, you have a broad range of color choices, even within the black and blue ranges.

“An italic is like having a wonderful tailor, even if you don’t have a wonderful figure,” Wirth said. “They’re certainly more trouble than grabbing anything at hand … but they make such a difference. Any time I don’t have one, I end up regretting it.”

While high-end fountain pens with italic nibs can run $200 or more, the Sheaffer Calligraphy (less than $50) is often recommended for its quality italics and ease of use, particularly for first-time fountain pen users.

But, if an expensive fountain pen isn’t practical for the writing and signing that you do, then a good gel or rollerball with a broad point will do just fine. You might try a Pilot G2 Pro or a Uni-ball Signo 207 Premier, both of which cost only a few dollars and are available with 1.0 mm points. They both offer clean, rich lines and smooth writing for a flowing signature. Just be mindful that broad points lay down more ink, so they dry a little slower.

Whatever pen you choose to use, the brand and style is far less important now in

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culture the business world than it used to be, said Ron Sachs, statewide communications consultant and president of Ron Sachs Communications.

“The kind of pen … is only important to government executives using it in a ceremonial way,” he said.

Sachs said he tends to lose pens, so he carries around inexpensive Paper Mates or even a Sharpie for daily use and keeps something only slightly more upscale — for example, a Fisher Space Pen — on his desk for signing contracts.

Whipping out an expensive Mont Blanc to sign documents in a meeting is a practice more suited to the era of “Mad Men” than today, he said.

That means you are free to choose whatever kind of pen works best for you when selecting your signature tool.

What does your signature say?

For your signature to make any sort of statement, it needs to be written in a way that other people can actually read it.

Greg Fox at the DonorPower Blog wrote a piece examining the signatures on the fundraising letters he receives from various organizations. He did not have kind words for those who signed their letters illegibly, writing that potential donors might actually be turned off by that kind of sloppiness.

“Signatures like these say, ‘I’m an important person. I’m too busy to sign my name so you can read it,” he wrote. “That creates distance between the signer and the donor — and distance is the last thing you want.”

He’s got a point. A scrawled signature does have a certain impatience about it that some recipients, either business or personal, could take for arrogance or indifference toward them.

If you’re a person who scrawls, you’ll have to practice to improve the legibility of your signature (and maybe improve your handwriting in general). You’ll also have to remember to slow down when you sign your name, at least until you get used to doing it neatly.

Obviously, your signature should be in cursive, following the basic styles you learned in school, but you also can give it certain flourishes to add your own personality. You can loop the tail of the last letter back to underline your name, or make the first letters of your first and last name bigger than all the other letters, whatever you want.

Just don’t go overboard.

Self-described handwriting analyst Elaine Ness writes on her website that, “A highly embellished signature, especially if larger than the body of writing, can indicate underlying feelings of inadequacy. Showy writing reveals a need to be noticed … As you might guess, it is common to see public figures sign their names just that way.”

Ness and others in the handwriting field also caution that signatures written in an undersized, left-leaning hand might subconsciously communicate to readers that you lack confidence.

“That can suggest you are almost painfully inhibited,” Wirth said.

Your best bet is to find one stylish, neat signature that feels comfortable to your hand and stick with it.

“It’s your territory,” Wirth said. “You want it to be authoritative and dramatic, but legible.” ec

If you’d like to start making a statement with your signature, there are three things you need to consider: the ink, the pen and the style with which you write.

2012

#MM10776

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O U R D E D I C AT I O N T O D E TA I L S E T S U S A P A R T

2012 Thank you again for naming Dixon Kazek Morrison the Best Builder/Contractor for two years in a row. We appreciate your business and continued support.

BEST BUILDER/CONTRACTOR

12273 Emerald Coast Pkwy., Suite 108 Miramar Beach, FL • 850.650.7539 • DixonKazekConstruction.com EmeraldCoastMagazine.com October–November 2012

45

thecalendar october + november

+Event

Taste of The Beach Nov. 2-4 This year’s exciting schedule of events includes: Al Fresco Reserve Tasting at Ruskin Place, Seeing Red Wine Festival at Seaside, Taste of The Beach After Dark at Finz and the Taste of The Beach & Charity Auction. A collaboration between the Walton Area Chamber of Commerce and Destin Charity Wine Auction Foundation (DCWAF), Taste of The Beach combines new and established food, wine and artistic events featuring prized vintners and celebrity chefs.

Tickets range from $35 to $165 per person. For a detailed event schedule and to purchase tickets, visit tasteofthebeachfl.com.

The Taste of The Beach toasts the good life — great wine, food and musical talent, such as the melodic tunes of Dannica Lowery on stage at the Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa.

+Save the date

Best of the Emerald Coast 2012 Oct. 13 Experience the best the Emerald Coast has to offer at one of the most highly anticipated events of the year.

Mix and mingle with friends and family at lovely Grand Boulevard at Sandestin while sampling the best food, beverages and personal services in town.

Avant Garde Best Salon in 2011

46 October–November 2012

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com

The event is from 6 to 9 p.m. Proceeds benefit the Junior League of the Emerald Coast. Tickets are $25 in advance and $35 the day of the event. Call (850) 862-2665 or visit jlec.org to purchase tickets and facebook.com/ BestoftheEmeraldCoast for a list of ticket locations.

2012

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

+Save the date

2012 Emerald Coast Top Salon Nov. 10 The top 10 finalist salons from across the Emerald Coast take the stage to reveal the secrets to their made-over models. Attendees along with a panel of judges will choose the Emerald Coast’s Top Salon for 2012. Mix and mingle with representatives from Bluewater Plastic Surgery, the presenting sponsor, and the elite of the salon industry at Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort.

Tickets are $50. A portion of proceeds are donated to a charity of the winning salon’s choice. 6 p.m. Tickets are limited, purchase tickets at topsaltonec.com.

Photo courtesy Modus Photography (Taste of The Beach), Kay phelan (Best of EC), Kim Jameson (Rosemary Beach) and PATRICK ENGMAN (top salon)

+Event

Rosemary Beach Uncorked

Saturdays through Nov. 24

Oct. 20 Stroll the quaint cobblestone streets and explore the diverse culinary styles of nine Rosemary Beach restaurants. Each location will offer its signature dishes paired with boutique wines for an extra­-special taste of the beachside town. End the experience with Amavida’s chocolate and coffee pairing … mmm.

Oct. 1–31

Tickets are $75 per person. Purchase tickets online at rosemarybeachuncorked.com. Cheers!

Weekdays through Nov. 19

Thanksgiving Food Drive Shelter House is collecting food for Thanksgiving meal baskets. Donate gift cards, frozen hams/turkeys (accepted on Nov. 19 only), boxed mashed potatoes, gravy, stuffing mix, cream soups for casseroles, crispy fried onions, cranberries, rolls, condensed milk, pumpkin puree and pie crusts.

Drop off your donation at the Shelter House office, 102 Buck Dr., Fort Walton Beach. Weekdays 8 a.m.–5 p.m. through Nov. 19. (850) 243-1201, shelterhousenwfl.org

Wednesdays through Nov. 28

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

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.

Seaside Farmers Market Get your pick of fresh produce, baked goods, dairy products, native plants and other unique offerings during our Market on Saturday mornings. Held behind Raw & Juicy. (850) 231-6107, seasidefl.com Destin Fishing Rodeo Wrangle in those catches to put on the leader board in front of AJ’s throughout the entire month of October and vie for more than $100,000 in cash and prizes. Every child will receive a fishing pole for participating. Open to private and charter boats, with more than 30,000 competitors of every age. FREE to all anglers who fish aboard a registered boat in the rodeo. $25 for pier anglers. 103 Stahlman Ave., Destin. Daily weigh-ins from 10 a.m.– 7 p.m. (850) 837-6734, destinfishingrodeo.org

Oct. 1–31

Window Display Exhibit The art of Penny MacPherson, sculptor and painter in oils, will be on display in the studio windows of the Art Center. FREE. Art Center, 17 First St., S.E., Fort Walton Beach. (850) 244-1271, artsdesignsociety.org

Oct. 2

First Tuesday Series Crestview News Bulletin arts and entertainment editor Brian Hughes presents “Noirmoutier: Crestview’s Sister City.” FREE. 1445 Commerce Dr., Crestview, 10:30 a.m. (850) 682-4432

Oct. 2–27

Night Vision Show Reception: Friday, Oct. 5. Works of local artists, in any medium, will explore a nocturnal theme. FREE. Art Center, 17 First St., S.E., Fort Walton Beach. Tue–Fri noon–4 p.m., Sat 1–4 p.m. Artist reception Friday, Oct. 5, 6–8 p.m. (850) 244-1271, artsdesignsociety.org

Oct. 3

Then and Now Speaker Series Local author Nancy Kenaston will give a talk on

Brenda Tuncer models her new look thanks to As You Like It, the 2011 Emerald Coast Top Salon.

her popular book “From Cabin to Campus: History of the Okaloosa County School District.” FREE. Indian Temple Mound Museum, 139 Miracle Strip Pkwy., Fort Walton Beach.

6 p.m. (850) 833-9595, fwb.org

Oct. 3–7

2012 Emerald Coast Volleyball Fall Classic Men, women and seniors will gather together once again for head-to-head volleyball games, great food and great entertainment throughout this five day extravaganza on the beach. $70 and up. 20001A Emerald Coast Pkwy., Destin. All day. (850) 243-2555, emeraldcoastvolleyball.com

Oct. 4

A New Orleans Cabaret Featuring Jeremy Davenport Sinfonia kicks off its seventh season with one of the hottest jazz musicians on the scene

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thecalendar today paired with the culinary artistry of Chef Johnny Earles. Trumpeter and vocalist Jeremy Davenport and his band will provide an evening of incredible and energetic music. $150. Seagar’s Prime Steaks & Seafood, Miramar Beach. 5:30 p.m. (850) 729-7129, sinfoniagulfcoast.org

Oct. 5

Friends of the Crestview Library Book Sale Add to your collection at a great price. Fri $2 admission for non-friends 9 a.m.–4 p.m., Sat–Sun FREE. 1445 Commerce Dr., Crestview.

(850) 682-4432, friendsofcrestviewlibrary@yahoo.com

Oct. 5–7

rbor

...on the ha

ing uneiqnuues Featurh nig tly m

Franklin County Oyster Festival The three-day Franklin County Oyster Festival highlights the county’s proud seafood heritage. Enjoy educational displays, demonstrations, a shucking tournament, 5K race, fishing tournament and children’s games.

FREE. Eastpoint and St. George Island, 11:30 a.m.–3 p.m. (850) 927-7744

Oct. 5–7

Destin Seafood Festival The 34th Annual Destin Seafood Festival celebrates the town’s cultural heritage. Enjoy fresh local seafood, live music, art exhibits and more. $2 donation. Proceeds benefit the Destin History & Fishing Museum.

Destin Harbor. Fri 4–10 p.m., Sat 10 a.m.–10 p.m., Sun 11 a.m.–4 p.m.

(850) 218-0232, (850) 218-8232, destinseafoodfestival.org

2012

Oct. 5–8

BEST SEAFOOD 2010-2012

Full Bar • Outdoor S ea

Lunch menu available 11AM-3PM

ting

Open at 11AM • Closing hours vary by season 202 Harbor Blvd., Destin • 837-7525

Silver Sands Premium Outlets Columbus Day Sale Find added savings above and beyond the center’s everyday savings of 25 percent to 65 percent. To save even more, sign up for the VIP Shopper Club online offers. FREE. Silver Sands Premium Outlets, 10562 Emerald Coast Pkwy., Destin. Thu–Sat, 10 a.m.–9 p.m.; Sun 10 a.m.–6 p.m., Mon, 10 a.m.–9 p.m. (850) 654-9771, premiumoutlets.com

Oct. 5 & Nov. 2

First Friday ArtWalk Enjoy live music and view beautiful works of art and artist demos at the galleries and shops. FREE. Throughout Ruskin Place and Seaside.

5–8 p.m. (850) 231-6107, seasidefl.com

Oct. 6

ts bo • Sandwiches • Steamed Seafoo d • Fried Seafood Baske Gum

...overlooking Crab Island

Seaside Community Yard Sale The Merchants of Seaside host this semi-annual yard sale that features more than 100 vendors from across the country with a variety of unique offerings. Entertainment will be provided by 30A Radio. FREE. Seaside Amphitheater. 8 a.m.–2 p.m. (850) 231-6107, seasidefl.com

Oct. 6

Walk to End Alzheimer’s After the walk enjoy food, specialty beverages and purchase a commemorative T-shirt. All proceeds benefit the Alzheimer’s Association. Superior Residencies of Niceville, 2300 North Partin Drive, Niceville. Call for price.

Registration is at 8 a.m. (850) 897-2244, superioralf.com/Niceville.php

Oct. 6

Jingle Bell Craft Fair Mary Esther United Methodist Church hosts its annual craft fair. FREE. 703 Miracle Strip Pkwy., Mary Esther. 9 a.m.–3 p.m. (850) 243-7595, meumc.org

Oct. 8–13

Open 7 days a week • 11AM -‘Til 9 Calhoun Ave., Destin • 837-7575 BOATERS WELCOME!

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29th Northwest Florida Tri-County Fair Fine Arts Show In this annual art show, sponsored by the Arts and Design Society and the Northwest Florida Fair Board, artworks in every medium will be on display; high school and middle school art will be a special feature. FREE. C.H. Bull Rigdon Fairgrounds and Recreation Complex, 1958 Lewis Turner Blvd., Fort Walton Beach. Mon–Fri 5–10 p.m., Sat Noon–6 p.m. Artist reception Sunday, Oct. 7, 2–4 p.m. (850) 582-1329, artsdesignsociety.org

Oct. 10

Arts Guild Luncheon Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation presents Wendy Rodrigue of Rodrigue Galley and the George Rodrigue Foundation of the Arts as guest speaker.

$30 members, $40 non-members. Le Ciel at Sandestin. 11:30 a.m.

(850) 650-2226, mattiekellyartsfoundation.org

Oct. 11

Ladies Night Out Downtown Have a night out on the town, downtown with after hours shopping, drinks, treats and tons of fun. FREE. Props Craft Brewery and Grill, 255 Miracle Strip Pkwy. S.E., Fort Walton Beach. 6–9 p.m. (850) 586-7117, downtownfwb.com

Oct. 13

YOLO Sprint Series Join or simply watch this exciting stand up paddleboard race around the Destin Harbor. Call for times and entry fees. 10 Harbor Blvd., Destin.

(850) 424-0600, emeraldgrande.com

Oct. 13

Destin Beer Festival Enjoy a fall afternoon of specialty and craft brews, eclectic cuisine and live entertainment. Benefiting The Children’s Neighborhood of Children in Crisis Inc. $25 in advance and $35 the day of. VIP tickets are $50. Tickets can be purchased at any Wine World location or online at chanswineworld.com. Chan’s Wine World, 4424 Commons Drive, Destin. 1–5 p.m.

(850) 269-2909 or (850) 337-8700, destinbeerfestival.com

Oct. 14

Sugar Beach Sertoma Club A wine tasting and silent auction to benefit Fish House on the Emerald Coast. $10. Magnolia Grill, 157 Brooks St., Fort Walton Beach. 2–4 p.m.

(850) 729-1738

Oct. 19–20

The 5th Annual Baytowne Wharf Beer Festival Known as the “Best Beer Fest on the Emerald Coast,” the popular festival features 40 on-site craft brewers, more than 100 domestic and international beers, seminars, samplings and live music. Beer novices to beer lovers will be able to sample domestic and international options, including specialty, seasonal and not-yet-released beers. $25/$30 day of.

The Village of Baytowne Wharf, 9300 Emerald Coast Pkwy. West, Miramar Beach. 2–6 p.m. (850) 267-8117, baytownewharf.com

Oct. 19–21

Treasures of South Walton Adventure Run An entire weekend of fun beginning with a masquerade ball Friday evening, a one-mile fun run (kids 14 and under) on Saturday, and a piratethemed 5K adventure run on Sunday. Proceeds benefit Food for Thought, which provides backpacks filled with easy-to-make meals, allowing children in need to focus on their development and education. Ball tickets are $55, fun run is $25, 5K is $55. Topsail Resort. The ball is at 7 p.m.; fun run is 10 a.m and the 5K is 8 a.m. (850) 737-0906, active.com

Oct. 19 & 21

‘Sweeney Todd’ Sondheim’s chilling, suspenseful, heart-pounding masterpiece of murderous barber-ism and culinary crime. It tells the infamous tale of the unjustly exiled barber who returns to 19th century London seeking revenge against the lecherous judge who framed him and ravaged his young wife. $30–$110. Saenger Theatre, 118 South Palafox Place, Pensacola. Fri at 7:30 p.m. and Sun at 2 p.m. (850) 595-3880, pensacolasaenger.com

Oct. 19–21

Boggy Bayou Mullet Festival Named one of the Top Food Festivals in the USA by Parade magazine, this hometown festival celebrates the mullet fish. Enjoy food concessions, arts and crafts, exhibits, carnival rides, clowns and national headline country music acts. $10–$15. Mullet Festival Grounds, State Road 85. N. and College Blvd., Niceville. Fri 11 a.m., Sat 9 a.m., Sun 10 a.m.

Through Oct. 20

‘Den of Thieves’ Maggie is a shoplifter looking to change her life. Paul is her sponsor in a 12-step program. Flaco is her charismatic, but jealous drug-dealing exboyfriend. Boochie, Flaco’s girlfriend, is a topless dancer. When this unlikely

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 ” ®

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thecalendar CELEBRATING 10 YEARS SERVING THE GULF COAST OVER 150 YEARS TOTAL LOCKSMITH EXPERIENCE

squad bans together to steal $750,000 in unprotected drug money, they become prisoners in a mob boss’ basement. $25. Seaside Repertory Theatre, 216 Quincy Circle, Seaside. 7:30 p.m. (850) 231-0733, seasiderep.org

Oct. 20

Shalimar Holly Fair More than 80 regional exhibitors display their exclusively handmade items at Shalimar United Methodist Church. Morning scones and coffee will be available in the Coffee Shoppe, gourmet lunch in the Holly Berry Tea Room and hamburgers and brats from the grill outside.

All proceeds benefit church missions and local charities. FREE. Eglin Parkway and Old Ferry Road, Shalimar. 8:30 a.m.–3 p.m. (850) 651-0721, shalimar-unc.org.

Oct. 20

We’ve Moved to Our New 2,600 SF Showroom!

8am–5pm MON–FRI | 9am–5pm SAT

We offer 24 Hour Emergency Mobile Locksmith Service WE SELL & INSTALL KABA ORACODE 660K (KEYLESS LOCKS) FOR VACATION RENTAL PROPERTIES

(850) 654-9910

13346 Hwy 98 W | Miramar Beach www.destinlocksmithing.com

Dog Daze Promenade your pooch and enjoy a packed schedule of fun events for your furry friend. $3/dog. Liza Jackson Park, 318 Miracle Strip Parkway, Fort Walton Beach Landing, 10 a.m.–4 p.m. (850) 244-8191, fwbchamber.com/dogdaze.

Oct. 20

Zombie Walk Downtown FWB Merchants and Caring and Sharing bring you a Zombie Walk. Dress in Your scariest zombie costume, and walk the streets downtown collecting stamps for prizes and giveaways. Bring a canned food to be admitted. Downtown Fort Walton Beach. 4 p.m. (850) 244-6666, downtownfwb.com

Oct. 24

Shop for a Job Visit the Information Center/Shopper Services to complete a profile sheet to apply for open positions. A profile sheet, a list of job opportunities and benefit information will be distributed. Applicants are invited to provide profile sheets to individual stores and speak to a store representative regarding available positions. FREE. Silver Sands Premium Outlets, 10562 Emerald Coast Pkwy., Destin. 10 a.m.–9 p.m.

(850) 654-9771, premiumoutlets.com

Oct. 24

Arts and Design Society Luncheon Brenda Stokes, potter and owner with her husband and son of Holley Hill Pottery and Art, is a featured speaker. Holley Hill Pottery features a wood-fired kiln; Brenda is also active with the Gulf Coast Kiln Walk Society, which promotes wood-fired kilns. $12. Art Center, 17 First St., S.E., Fort Walton Beach. 11:30 a.m. (850) 244-1271, artsdesignsociety.org

Oct. 26–27

5th Annual Haunted History Tours The City of Fort Walton Beach Heritage Park & Cultural Center presents guided twilight walking tours of historic sites by costumed actors. $10 adults, $7 children. Pre-sale tickets sold at the Indian Temple Mound Museum. Purchase tickets on tour nights at 6 p.m. at the museum entrance where tours will begin. Cash only. 139 Miracle Strip Pkwy., Fort Walton Beach. Tours are at 6:30 p.m., 7:15 p.m., 8 p.m. and 8:45 p.m.

(850) 833-9595, fwb.org

Oct. 27

Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Put on a pink bra and raise funds and awareness for breast cancer at this spirited 5K run/walk throughout Destin. Proceeds benefit the American Cancer Society. Donations appreciated. Teams that raise $100 receive an official T-shirt. Village Baptist Church, 101 Matthew Blvd., Destin. 8 a.m. registration; 9 a.m. race. (850) 244-3813, msabcemeraldcoast.com

Oct. 27

Annual Harvest Festival Chautauqua Vineyards & Winery invites you to come out and celebrate another wonderful year of harvesting. The entire family will enjoy live entertainment, arts and crafts, a cruise-in car show, good food and free wine tastings. FREE. Chautauqua Vineyards & Winery, 364 Hugh Adams Road, DeFuniak Springs. 9 a.m.–until, (850) 892-5887, chautauquawinery.com 50 October–November 2012

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com

socialstudies Emerald Coast Blue Marlin Classic at Sandestin June 22–23, 2012. Done Deal, a 56-foot Viking captained by Jason Buck from Fairhope, Ala., tipped the scales with a big blue marlin weighing 783.6 pounds to win the tournament and set a new record at the 10th anniversary celebration of the biggest tournament in Northwest Florida.

Photos by Zandra Wolfgram and Jason Buck

Sara, Will, Taylor and Scott Strohmeyer

Travis Dorland

ArtsQuest Fine Arts & Music Festival May 11–13, 2012. Families flocked to Seaside to browse 130 artists’ booths, hear live music, see live art demos and get their hands dirty with kids’ art projects at this 24th annual celebration of art hosted by the Cultural Arts Alliance.

Photos by Kurt Lischka, Bailey Miller, Shelly Swanger, Zandra Wolfgram

John and Jill White

Evangeline Brown

Jennifer Steele and Shelly Swanger

Justin Lyons and Paul Caddell EmeraldCoastMagazine.com October–November 2012

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socialstudies Marquis Are Forever June 30, 2012. Legendary Marine partnered with McCaskill & Company, Porsche of Destin and Chef Tim Creehan to host a James Bond-themed launch party for the Marquis 630 Sport Yacht at the Legendary Yacht Club featuring a daring appearance by 007 himself.

Photos by Zandra Wolfgram

Neil Courtney (aka 007)

David Kirk and Molly Scarbrough

Patrick “PJ” and Adrianne Brackett

Heavenly and Bill Dawson

Good to Grow Party April 14, 2012. Life is Good, known for its products sporting inspiring messages featuring the stick figure “Jake” and nonprofit efforts to help kids in need, opened a new retail store in Destin Commons.

Photos by Zandra Wolfgram

Daphne Sowell and Valerie Wright

Rachel Hood 52 October–November 2012

Caroline Cabral and Amber Grimmell with Maddie and Jax EmeraldCoastMagazine.com

Michael, Vivian and Crosby Ellison

thecalendar

+Event

Savor the Season Nov. 8 Socialize with friends at a wine tasting under the stars in one of the most beautiful venues on 30A — the Caliza Pool at Alys Beach — for a great cause, The Taylor Haugen Foundation. Check off your list early with lovely gifts purchased from a silent and live auction and savor delicious cuisine prepared by talented local celebrity chefs.

The event is from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Tickets are $50 per person and can be purchased at taylorhaugen.org.

Oct. 27

Pumpkinpalooza Think innovation because the winning stakes for the most creative costume are high with HarborWalk Village as your destination for costume contests for both the little goblins and grown-up ghouls. Enjoy food, drink, live entertainment, pumpkin decorating, crafts, face painting and trick-or-treating all day. FREE. 10 Harbor Blvd. Destin. Noon–Until.

(850) 424-0600, emeraldgrande.com

Oct. 27

Monster Paddle at Harry T’s Come out to see the only costumed stand up paddle poker run in the United States. FREE. 10 Harbor Blvd. Destin. 2–10 p.m. (850) 424-0600, emeraldgrande.com

Oct. 27

Destin Commons Halloween Haunt Free arts and crafts, face painting, spooky train rides, costume contest followed by Main Street trick-or-treating. FREE. Destin Commons, 4300 Legendary Drive, Destin. 4–5 p.m. with parade at 6 p.m. (850) 337-8700, destincommons.com

Oct. 27–28

17th Annual Destin Festival of the Arts Come to the beach to view the fine work of 100 premier artists from around the United States. The festival features live music, a bistro-style food court, children’s art station. Free parking with motor coach shuttle service from the Emerald Coast Shopping Centre. $3 (kids under 12 FREE). Henderson Beach State Park, 17000 Emerald Coast Pkwy, Destin. Sat 9 a.m.–5 p.m., Sun 10 a.m.–5 p.m. (850) 650-2226, mattiekellyartsfoundation.org

Oct. 29

American Indian Hunting Camp Relive the past with Blue Heron (Wah-ka-chobee), a Seminole/Creek Indian. Farris Powell presents a unique historical impression of the Seminole warrior at the turn of the 19th century. Bring a blanket or chair to sit on. FREE. 1445 Commerce Dr., Crestview. 6–8 p.m. (850) 682-4432, friendsofcrestviewlibrary@yahoo.com

Oct. 30–Nov. 9

LIFE’S A BEACH Cover Competition Show Local artists celebrate life on the Emerald Coast in this competition show.

Winning art will be displayed on the cover of Life’s A Beach guide, and the artist will be featured in that issue. FREE. Art Center, 17 First St., S.E., Fort Walton Beach. Tue–Fri noon–4 p.m., Sat 1–4 p.m. Artist reception Friday, Nov. 7, 6–8 p.m. (850) 244-1271, artsdesignsociety.org EmeraldCoastMagazine.com October–November 2012

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thecalendar Oct. 31

Trick or Treat in Seaside It’s time for ghosts, goblins and princesses to go door-to-door collecting candy from the Seaside merchants to feed their sugary appetites. Hop on the haunted hayride and hear spooky stories and do the monster mash. FREE. Seaside. 4–6 p.m.

(850) 231-6107, seasidefl.com

Oct. 31

Trick or Treat Street at Baytowne Trick or treat through the Village streets and visit merchants as they provide you with some

of your favorite Halloween treats. FREE. The Village of Baytowne Wharf, 9300 Emerald Coast Pkwy. West, Miramar Beach. 6–8 p.m. (850) 267-8117, baytownewharf.com

take home. Proceeds benefit local children’s charities. Tickets range from $40–$165. Seaside.

For a detailed schedule and ticket information, visit seeingredwinefestival.com.

Nov. 1–4

Nov. 1–30

22nd Annual Seeing Red Wine Festival Taste, dine and donate at this festival featuring an extensive array of tasting tents with wines from around the world at America’s classic beach town. A retail wine tent will also be available for you to purchase your favorite wines to

Window Display Exhibit The art of mixed media artist Violet Nicklen, who brings a fresh approach to her work will be on display in the studio windows of the Art Center.

FREE. Art Center, 17 First St., S.E., Fort Walton Beach. (850) 244-1271, artsdesignsociety.org

Nov. 2–3

Florida Seafood Festival The Florida Seafood Festival is a two-day event drawing thousands of visitors to the historic town of Apalachicola in scenic Franklin County.

The festival features a 5K road race, arts and crafts exhibits, seafood related events and contests, musical entertainment and, of course, plenty of seafood. FREE. Battery Park, Apalachicola. Fri 10 a.m.–10 p.m., Sat 7 a.m.–11 p.m.

(888) 653-8011, floridaseafoodfestival.com

Nov. 3

2nd Annual Race for the Arts Participate in a 5K walk/run and 1-mile kids fun run through Destin to support the Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation. $20 early registration, $25 after Oct. 1. Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation, 4323 Commons Drive W., Destin (behind Grace Lutheran Church). 8:30 a.m. (850) 650-2226, mattiekellyartsfoundation.org

Nov. 4

Taste of The Beach Charity Auction The Taste of The Beach grand finale celebration. This walkabout, on the pool deck overlooking the shores of the Gulf of Mexico, includes a high-end auction, featuring rare and large-format wines, jewelry, art and more to raise funds for the Destin Charity Wine Auction Foundation. $35. Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa, 4000 Sandestin Blvd. South, Miramar Beach. 2–5 p.m. (850) 267-0683, tasteofthebeachfl.com

Nov. 6

First Tuesday Series Lt. Col Kirby Locklear, a member of the Lumbee Indian Tribe, presents “Native Americans and the U.S. Military: Past & Present.” Colonel Locklear is a direct descendant of the “Lost Roanoke Colony” whose ancestral people intermarried with the surviving colonists. FREE. 1445 Commerce Dr., Crestview. 10:30 a.m. (850) 682-4432, friendsofcrestviewlibrary@yahoo.com

Nov. 8

Ladies Night Downtown Have a night out on the town, downtown with after hours shopping, drinks, treats and tons of fun! FREE. Carolina Cigars on the Coast, 180 Miracle Strip Pkwy. S.E., Fort Walton Beach.

5–8 p.m. (850) 315-1010, downtownfwb.com

Nov. 9

Then and Now Speaker Series James E. Moore will bring Gen. Andrew Jackson to life and discuss settling the Florida territory, Masons and how Florida became a 54 October–November 2012

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socialstudies

Ashley Watkins, Peggy Horton, Marcia Hull, Aimee Shaffer

Dressed to Give Charity Fashion Show April 19, 2012. Fashionistas all along the Emerald Coast strutted to Saks Fifth Avenue OFF 5TH at Silver Sands Factory Stores for a festive fashion show event that raised more than $7,000 for local charities.

Photos by Kay Phelan

Marcia Hull and Lori Smith

Carson and Payton Troy and Drake Hunter

Aimee Shaffer and Kay Phelan

Justin Cook

YOLO Board Mileage Builder Series May 26, June 22 & July 27, 2012. Locals compete in four heats throughout the summer, building excitement for this popular paddle board race series.

Photos by Modus Photography and Shelly Swanger

Jessica D’Aleo

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thecalendar state. FREE. Indian Temple Mound Museum, 139 Miracle Strip Pkwy., Fort Walton Beach. 6 p.m. (850) 833-9595, fwb.org

Nov. 10

Pioneer Day See demonstrations of pioneer skills such as spinning, weaving, quilting, basket-making, corn grinding, butter churning and shingle making.

Listen to tales of pioneer life in the Panhandle, including discussions on turpentining and lumbering by a local expert. FREE. Bayou State Park, Niceville. 10 a.m.–3 p.m. (850) 833-9144

Nov. 10–11

Flutterby Arts Festival Named to celebrate the annual migration of the Monarch butterfly through the area, this festival features a student art show, storytelling, puppet shows, crafts, face painting, games, music, food and the making of butterfly wing masterpieces for the butterfly costume parade. FREE admission. Some activities require $1 tickets. South Barrett Square, Main Street and Western Green, Rosemary Beach. 10 a.m.–4 p.m., culturalartsassociation.com

Nov. 10–16

Art Week The Arts and Design Society’s annual celebration of the visual arts includes art classes, an art competition and an art party which includes demos, games and refreshments. First class, $25; all classes thereafter $20, with all supplies provided. Art Center, 17 First St., S.E., Fort Walton Beach. Visit website for class times. Art Party is Nov. 17 6–8 p.m. (850) 244-1271, artsdesignsociety.org

Nov. 12

Blues, Brews & BBQ Local restaurants fire up their grills for a good time and a good cause at HarborWalk Village. The Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association’s (FRLA) Northwest Florida chapter will host a craft beer tasting and creative barbecue competition. All proceeds benefit the FRLA Educational Foundation, supporting the next generation of hospitality professionals.

10 Harbor Blvd. Destin. Noon–4 p.m. (850) 424-0600, emeraldgrande.com

Nov. 14

Arts and Design Society Luncheon Doretha Jones, a.k.a. Dr. Meow, owner of Bad Girls’ Gallery, is a featured speaker. Her areas of special interest are glass, jewelry and fiber arts, which she exhibits and sells in art shows around the country. $12. Art Center, 17 First St., S.E., Fort Walton Beach. 11:30 a.m. (850) 244-1271, artsdesignsociety.org

Nov. 15

Artfully French Connection, A Duboeuf Nouveau A celebration of the first harvest of Beaujolais. featuring George Duboeuf wines paired with the Emerald Coast’s top chefs and artists. $45 per person. Tickets sold at Wine World locations. Grand Boulevard at Sandestin, 600 Grand Boulevard, Miramar Beach. (850) 650-2226, mattiekellyartsfoundation.org

Nov. 17

Crop Drop Join in a food drive coordinated by Thrivent Financial that reaches more than 5,000 families in need from Santa Rosa County to Bay county. Over 56,000 pounds of produce will be picked up throughout the day for local churches and charities to distribute to those in need for the Thanksgiving season. 10 Harbor Blvd. Destin. 9–5 p.m. To volunteer, contact Ruth Gramzow of Thrivent Financial at Ruth.gramzow@thrivent.com.

Nov. 17

Battle of the Bands Hear nearly a dozen local bands perform various types of music all day.

FREE. Vince J. Whibbs, Sr. Community Maritime Park Amphitheater, 1–10 p.m. (850) 436-5670

Nov. 17

Champagne Walkabout The Sandestin Wine Festival presents a champagne and food tasting at select 56 October–November 2012

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retailers and restaurants within Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort. $40. 9300 Emerald Coast Pkwy., Miramar Beach. 4–7 p.m. sandestinwinefestival.com

November 17–18

‘The Nutcracker’ Northwest Florida Ballet presents its 32nd annual production of the holiday classic, “The Nutcracker.” It is the holiday show to see with gorgeous costumes, magical special effects, beautiful music, and exceptional dancing by local and international stars. $25 adults, $12.50 children (12 and under). Mattie Kelly Performing Arts Center. 100 College Blvd., Niceville. Sat 7:30 p.m., Sun 2:30 p.m. (850) 664-7787, nfballet.org

Nov. 18

Silver Sands Premium Outlets Eighth Annual Evening of Giving Get a jumpstart on your holiday shopping while helping local charities and organizations raise money. Tickets may be purchased at Silver Sands Premium Outlets Information Center/ Shopper Services. Ticket holders receive exclusive discounts listed on the back of the ticket as well as enjoying live entertainment, refreshments and much more. $5 per ticket.

Silver Sands Premium Outlets, 10562 Emerald Coast Pkwy., Destin. 3–8 p.m. (850) 654-9771, premiumoutlets.com

Nov. 18–Jan. 1

Silver Sands Premium Outlets Holiday Lights in Concert This spectacular Christmas production of lights and music features an amazing display of colorful lights synchronized to your favorite holiday songs and will run nightly through the season. FREE. Silver Sands Premium Outlets, 10562 Emerald Coast Pkwy., Destin. Nightly.

5–9 p.m. (850) 654-9771, premiumoutlets.com

Nov. 19

‘Shrek The Musical’ Based on the Oscar-winning DreamWorks film that started it all, “Shrek the Musical” brings the hilarious story of everyone’s favorite ogre to life on stage. $45, Mattie Kelly Arts Center, 100 College Blvd., Niceville. 7:30 p.m.

(850) 729-6000, mattiekellyartscenter.org

Nov. 19–Dec. 17

Arts and Design Society Christmas Art Market Sale of art by Arts and Design Society members, suitable for unique gifts, featuring an assortment of special creations, including jewelry, paintings, clay works, photographs, note cards and even plants and food specialties, all produced by the members. FREE admission. Gifts range in prices, with all under $200 and many at considerably less. Art Center, 17 First St., S.E., Fort Walton Beach. Gallery hours: Tue–Fri noon–4 p.m., Sat 1–4 p.m.

(850) 244-1271, artsdesignsociety.org

Nov. 22

Thanksgiving Buffet Dinner Enjoy a festive feast with all the trimmings.

Children will enjoy their own kid’s buffet. Call for pricing and reservations. Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa, 4000 Sandestin Blvd. South, Miramar Beach. 11 a.m.–6p.m. (850) 267-9500, ext. 44, sandestinbeachhilton.com/events

Nov. 22

Sensational Sandestin Thanksgiving Brunch Gather your family for a Thanksgiving celebration in beautiful Sandestin. Call for accommodations, pricing and reservations.

Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort, Magnolia Ballroom, 9300 Emerald Coast Pkwy. West, Miramar Beach. (866) 912-3224, sandestin.com

Nov. 23

Santa’s Arrival to HarborWalk Village and Tree Lighting Santa makes his grand entrance to the Destin Harbor at this Christmas season kickoff.

Pictures will be available for purchase with HD Action Photography. FREE. 10 Harbor Blvd.

Destin. Noon–4 p.m. with tree lighting after dark. (850) 424-0600, emeraldgrande.com

Nov. 23

Central Square Cinema — Holiday Movie Night Enjoy the start of the holiday weekend with a holiday movie under the stars. FREE. Seaside Amphitheater. 7 p.m. (850) 231-6107, seasidefl.com

Nov. 23–24

Holiday Celebration Weekend Come kickoff the holiday season with a family movie under the stars, a Christmas parade, tree lighting and, of course, a visit with Santa Claus. Enjoy a choreographed light show, 12 Nights of Lights and watch as fireworks light up the sky over the lagoon. FREE. The Village of Baytowne Wharf at Sandestin, 9300 Emerald Coast Pkwy. West, Miramar Beach. Friday festivities begin at 6 p.m. with movie at 7 p.m.

Saturday festivities continue from 11 a.m.– 9 p.m. (850) 267-8117, baytownewharf.com

Nov. 23-25

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

Now on iPad and iPhone

Midnight Madness The biggest sale event of the year kicks off at midnight as Thanksgiving ends and runs through Sunday with a wide range of extraordinary savings, early-bird offers and more. FREE. Silver Sands Premium Outlets, 10562 Emerald Coast Pkwy., Destin. Fri Midnight–10 p.m., Sat 8 a.m.–10 p.m., Sun 9 a.m.–8 p.m., (850) 654-9771, premiumoutlets.com

Nov. 24

Visit with Santa at HarborWalk Village It’s time for the children to bring their wish list and visit with Santa Claus. Pictures are available through HD Action Photography. All of Santa’s guests receive a special treat. FREE. 10 Harbor Blvd. Destin. Noon–4 p.m. (850) 424-0600, emeraldgrande.com

Save the Date!

Nov. 24

Turn on the Town Combine the small-town atmosphere of a beach community parade, throw in a dash of Santa Claus and mix with the official lighting of a remarkable town and you have the perfect makings to kickoff the holiday. FREE. Seaside. The parade begins at 4 p.m. in Seagrove Beach with festivities to follow. (850) 231-6107, seasidefl.com ec

Check out our digital flipbook. issuu.com/rowlandpublishing

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com October–November 2012

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Steven J. Clark M.D., D.M.D. FACS

Bluewater Plastic Surgery and Cosmetic Center ASK DR. CLARK

WHAT IS YOUR PHILOSOPHY WHEN IT COMES TO PATIENTS? I think of myself as both a dedicated doctor and a skilled plastic surgeon.

I am always considering the patient as a whole before I focus on their cosmetic goals.

WHAT DO YOU THINK MAKES A PROCEDURE SUCCESSFUL? Well, I always strive to achieve results that enhance each person’s natural beauty while preserving individuality and uniqueness. I aim for a sense of personal harmony, culminating in patients who still look themselves — only better!

WHAT STEPS DO YOU TAKE TO DELIVER SECOND-TO-NONE CARE? We measure each aspect of patient care against a mission statement I crafted with my staff more than a decade ago to achieve unsurpassed patient care, radiant beauty and surgical excellence.

YOU CANNOT BUY A REPUTATION!

Over the last 15 years on the Emerald Coast I have built a reputation amongst my patients and those who see me in action every day — operating room nurses and surgeons at Sacred Heart Hospital. This does not come easy! I give 100% to each patient I treat assuring safety, good clinical judgment and meticulous care. If you are considering plastic surgery, I recommend to, “Do your homework, ask an operating room nurse for their recommendations!”

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BEFORE

AFTER

This is a demonstration of how a small procedure can change facial contours.

Liposuction of the neck

WITH MORE THAN 25 YEARS SURGICAL EXPERIENCE AND TRAINING AT SEVERAL OF THE TOP UNIVERSITY PROGRAMS IN THE UNITED STATES, INCLUDING A POST GRADUATE COSMETIC FELLOWSHIP, DR. CLARK FEELS HE BRINGS THE EXPERIENCE AND JUDGEMENT TO SELECT THE BEST SURGICAL PLAN TO REACH YOUR PERSONAL GOAL. HE IS A DIPLOMATE OF THE AMERICAN BOARD OF PLASTIC SURGERY AND AS A MEMBER OF THE AMERICAN SOCIETY OF AESTHETIC PLASTIC SURGERY (ASAPS), DR. CLARK IS AMONG A SELECT GROUP OF BOARD CERTIFIED PLASTIC SURGEONS WHO HAVE ATTAINED THE HIGHEST LEVEL OF ACHIEVEMENT IN COSMETIC SURGICAL TRAINING, CONTINUING EDUCATION AND CLINICAL EXPERIENCE. THESE MEMBERS EARN THE RIGHT TO DISPLAY THE DISTINCTIVE ASAPS LOGO, DEPICTING THE EGYPTIAN QUEEN NEFERTITI, SYMBOLIZING AGELESS BEAUTY. TODAY, THIS LOGO REPRESENTS THE HIGHEST ACHIEVEMENT IN COSMETIC SURGERY.

MEET THE EXPERT

Steven J. Clark M.D., D.M.D.

Services Offered

American Board of Plastic Surgery American Society of Plastic Surgeons American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons ABOUT DR. CLARK

WHAT DO YOU LIKE MOST ABOUT YOUR JOB? I feel fortunate to possess the ability to make a profound impact on a patient’s life. Enhancing their appearance, in turn, improves their confidence and self image. It is rewarding to see a patient’s transformation both inside and out. At the end of the day, I know I have changed someone’s life for the better.

WHAT IS UNIQUE ABOUT YOUR TREATMENT STYLE? I consider each patient the embodiment of my practice and, as such, treat each individual as if she

PLASTIC SURGERY TRAINING University of Chicago

or he were the only patient in my practice. I set the bar high for myself and whoever works with me. Only by satisfying my own high standards can I ensure that each patient’s needs are met and expectations surpassed.

WHAT IS ONE THING YOU ARE NEVER WITHOUT? Perspective. My patients have placed the ultimate trust in me, and I, in turn, willingly take on the responsibility of caring for them and their needs.

Ultimately, their well-being and safety are of prime importance, and I never forget that.

LOCATION Miramar Beach Medical Office Building at Sacred Heart on the Emerald Coast

CONTACT 850.267.4582

Breast Augmentation Mastopexy/Breast Lift Breast Reduction Liposuction Tummy Tuck Facelift Malar Lift/Mid-Face Lift Endoscopic Brow Lift/Forehead Lift Blepharoplasty/Eyelid Surgery Laser Skin Resurfacing Dermabrasion Rhinoplasty Otoplasty/Ear Reshaping Gynecomastia/Male Breast Reduction Post-Gastric Body Contouring Brachioplasty/Arm Lift Lower Body Lift Thigh Lift Scar Revision Botox Juvederm Radiesse Skin Care Services (offered by our Medical Aesthetician)

To learn more about our practice visit BluewaterPlasticSurgery.com

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emerald coast’s

Best

2012

By Zandra Wolfgram

We give you 124 of the best reasons why you love to live, work and play on the Emerald Coast. In this annual Best of the Emerald Coast issue, we celebrate your favorite picks to shop, dine, relax and take care of business.

After a decade, The Best of the Emerald Coast Awards is still one of the most popular charity events of the season. In fact, our award is such a coveted honor and our event such a fun affair that other publications in the area appear to be trying to imitate them.

To that we say, thank you, we are flattered to be the Best and are glad we could provide creative inspiration for yours.

Join us at the party of the season on Saturday, Oct. 13, from 6 to 9 p.m. at the lovely Grand Boulevard at Sandestin. The event, which is open to the public, promises an evening of food, fun, fashion and entertainment. Enjoy complimentary food and beverages and sample products and services from many of the winners.

Tickets are $25 in advance or $35 at the door; proceeds benefit the Junior League of the Emerald Coast. To purchase tickets, visit jlec.org for a list of ticket locations.

We thank all of our loyal readers for taking the time to cast their votes in this annual reader poll, we thank our contest auditors for verifying the results and we thank our event sponsors and charity partners in advance for what we know will be the “best” evening ever. And now, gentle readers, we present The 2012 Best of the Emerald Coast winners …

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FOOD AND BEVERAGE Best Appetizer

Bonefish Grill

Again this year, Bonefish tops the list of favorite appetizers with its famous Bang Bang Shrimp tossed in a creamy spicy sauce.

Also, try the Wagyu Beef and Ginger Dumplings, handmade with American-style Kobe and pan-seared with crispy shallots, Thai peppers and soy sauce.

Destin and Pensacola

Best Bagel Shop

Not Just Bagels

With two dozen flavors of fresh gourmet bagels, breads and pastries, as well as a variety of cream cheeses, Not Just Bagels will have you in comfort-food heaven. All toppings and fillings are also made fresh every day.

And as the name implies, Not Just Bagels serves sandwiches too. Try the delicious chicken salad on a savory Swiss bagel. Destin

Best Bakery

Sugar Mill Sweets

Do you have a sweet tooth? This tasty family-owned business serves up delicious homemade pies, cheesecakes, cakes and breads. Whether you are on the go, looking for a great spot for lunch or need dessert catered, Sugar Mill Sweets is just confection. Fort Walton Beach

Best Barbecue

Jim ’n Nick’s Bar-B-Q

It’s official. Jim ’N Nick’s is the boss of the sauce. The restaurant refuses to cut corners, instead smoking meats for 14 hours in hickory. The result? Dishes such as slow-smoked baby back and spareribs, hand-pulled pork and sliced Angus beef brisket are definitely vote getters. Destin

Photo by Lawrence Davidson

Best Beer Selection

Miller’s Ale House

Here’s to the Ale House Restaurant! Its full-service bar features wine, liquor and more than 75 varieties of beer. Pair that ale with any number of delicious steaks, seafood, salad and pasta dishes, all served within the casual atmosphere of a neighborhood family restaurant.

Cheers! Destin

Best Breakfast

Another Broken Egg Café

Earning Best Breakfast for an entire decade, Another Broken Egg Café boasts the most coveted breakfast in town. The café offers more than 130 delicious, home-cooked breakfast, brunch and lunch foods in a warm and inviting atmosphere. Destin, Miramar Beach and Grayton Beach

Best Brunch

Mama Clemenza’s EUROPEAN BREAKFAST

Mama Clemenza’s European Breakfast at Clemenza’s Uptown restaurant is a true celebration.

Homemade Italian Breakfast Panini with prosciutto, fresh eggs and Gruyere cheese, Lemon Curd Ricotta Pancakes and Flourless Espresso Biscuits are all made from old family recipes.

Come hungry and taste the love in every bite. Fort Walton Beach

Best Buffalo Wings

Buffalo’s Reef FAMOUS WINGS

They don’t start cooking until you order, so relax and have a beer.

Savor something sweet with the honey barbecue sauce or

something zesty with the garlic Parmesan wings. Like it spicy?

The hot ‘n’ spicy wings are for you. But if you order them super hot, you’d better be prepared.

Fort Walton Beach

Best Cajun

Louisiana Lagniappe

As the name suggests, this New Orleans dining experience serves up “a little something extra.”

Louisiana Lagniappe features authentic Creole cuisine such as lobster tail, shrimp étouffée and Cajun seafood gumbo, as well as steak entrees. Enjoying a beautiful sunset while you dine makes for a memorable occasion every time. Destin

Best Onsite Catering

Eventful Planner

The Eventful Planner, owned and operated by Tammy D’Agostino, is dedicated to providing outstanding culinary excellence to its clients and their guests.

Whether you are hosting a small intimate dinner party or a wedding for 300, their freshly cooked food is served in innovative, clever ways that impress every guest. Destin

Best Chef

Dan Pettis

Best Restaurant/ Walton County

The Red Bar Locals will tell you The Red Bar is one of the area’s most popular indoor destinations.

The come-as-you-are restaurant serves up a simple, but delicious, menu and great live jazz music in a casual atmosphere with a funky vibe. Don’t be surprised if you spot a celebrity here; after this many years as the go-to restaurant of Emerald Coasters, the word has gotten out to just about everyone. Grayton Beach

Best Bloody Mary

The Red Bar A favorite among locals, visitors and celebrities, The Red Bar is a must-visit when in Grayton Beach. Come for lunch or dinner (or a little later) to kick back on the funky furniture and listen to live music while enjoying great food and cocktails — especially the award-winning Bloody Mary. Grayton Beach

Chef Dan Pettis draws his inspiration from “daily life, what EmeraldCoastMagazine.com

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is fresh and what is local.” The Florida native describes his style as a mix of “South Florida, Pacific Rim and Southern roots.” Chef Pettis is passionate about keeping his food local. A testament to this is his farmer’s market adjacent to his restaurant, One 20 A Modern Bistro. Niceville

Best Chinese

P.F. Chang’s

China Bistro

From its famous Ginger Chicken Stir-fry Romaine Wraps to the Shanghai Noodles with Grilled Rib Eye and Broccoli, P.F. Chang’s strives to create great craveable foods you can’t get anywhere else. Each dish on this restaurant’s extensive menu is prepared to order using only the freshest and highest-quality ingredients. Miramar Beach

Best Coffee

Starbucks Coffee

Starbucks figures that putting people before products makes good sense. Its relationship with farmers yields the highest quality coffees, and the connections it makes in communities creates a loyal following. Serving the finest coffees in the world with friendly service, Starbucks Coffee is a local favorite. Destin, Grayton Beach, Miramar Beach and Fort Walton Beach

Best Dessert

Tommy Bahama’s Restaurant & Bar

Their signature dessert, the Piña Colada cake, is what a beach vacation should taste like. The Butterscotch Pudding, Key Lime Pie and Pineapple Crème Brulee whisks you away to “destination relaxation,” too. Though usually enjoyed at the end of the meal, dessert is just the beginning of enjoying the island lifestyle at this coastal-inspired restaurant.

Miramar Beach

Best Fine Dining

Seagar’s Prime Steaks & Seafood

A five-star dining restaurant specializing in the finest prime beef and freshest seafood available, Seagar’s offers the most elegant table on the Emerald Coast. With private dining facilities and a wine list featuring

more than 800 labels, Seagar’s continues to be extolled by critics as one of the best restaurants around. Miramar Beach

Best French Restaurant

Bistro Bijoux

Located in The Village of Baytowne Wharf at Sandestin, this romantic French bistro serves perfectly seasoned dishes made from the freshest ingredients and presented like a work of art. Try the pan-seared diver scallops nestled in a saffron cream with crispy rice cakes and curried peanuts. Miramar Beach

Best Frozen Treat (icecream, yogurt gelato, snow cones)

Twirl frozen yogurt

Twirl infuses its frozen yogurt in-house with ingredients such as fresh berries, real espresso, red velvet cake and homemade Nutella for a more intense flavor experience. At Twirl, though you can load it up with more than a dozen delicious fruit, candy and nut toppings, you never pay for the cup — only the goodness inside! Destin

Best Gourmet/ Food Shop

Sarah K’s Gourmet

Sarah K’s Gourmet earned recognition as one of the Top Five Destinations for Crab Cakes in Taste of Home magazine. Sarah’s gourmet shrimp dip was featured in Woman’s World magazine.

And her chef-crafted ready-toheat cuisine has earned her the Best of the Emerald Coast award seven years running. Destin.

Best Gumbo

High Tide

Located east of Brooks Bridge, High Tide is a local’s favorite haunt. In addition to their savory gumbo and their fresh seafood, the come-as-you-are atmosphere and friendly service keep visitors and locals coming back year after year. Fort Walton Beach

Best Hamburger

McGuire’s Irish Pub

An award-winning steakhouse with traditional Irish food and in-house brewery, McGuire’s offers 25 different trimmings for its giant, custom-ground steak

burgers. Try the Big Daddy burger with bacon, cheddar and jalapeño or the Terrible Garbage Burger, which piles on some of everything. Destin and Pensacola

Best Happy Hour

Cuvee Bistro

Cuvee Bistro is the place on the Emerald Coast to meet up with friends and business colleagues for Happy Hour. The upscale restaurant has a full bar with an extensive wine and martini menu. Come for Happy Hour, Monday through Saturday from 5 to 9 p.m., and enjoy select martinis, specially priced beer, wine and cocktails, as well as the half-price bar menu that features their popular Crispy Flatbread Pizza. Destin

Best Hibachi

Osaka Japanese Hibachi Steakhouse and Sushi Bar

For a memorable and entertaining dining experience where the freshest available ingredients are assembled into artfully prepared dishes at your table, Osaka is the place. The Japanese steak house offers an amazing show as your meal is prepared right in front of you.

Destin and Miramar Beach

Best Italian Restaurant

Fat Clemenza’s Brick-Oven Pizzeria

Fat Clemenza’s is a wonderfully authentic Italian dining experience. The checkered tablecloths and old family photos on the wall create an atmosphere of a throwback to an Italian neighborhood restaurant in any big city.

Award-winning chefs prepare old family recipes for pasta, fish, chicken and veal with the freshest available ingredients.

Miramar Beach and Fort Walton Beach

Best Locally Owned Restaurant

Callahan’s Restaurant and Deli

A multi-year Best of award winner, Callahan’s aims to please with its custom-cut meats and generous portions of delicious

food. In addition to the fresh sandwiches, pastas and salads, the restaurant offers nightly dinner specials. Try the New York Strip — and save room for a slice of homemade cake or cheesecake for dessert. Destin

Best Margarita

Cantina Laredo

This authentic Mexican restaurant’s margaritas are made from freshly squeezed lime juice, as well as an impressive line of tequilas that include tripledistilled and aged brands that, once again, make the margaritas fabuloso. Miramar Beach

Best Martini

Tuscany Italian Bistro

Cheers to Tuscany’s fabulous martini menu. Try the Down & Dirty Martini, Disaronno Cosmo, De Stress Martini as well as the Torta Chocolate, or raise a glass to Frank Sinatra with a sip of Old Blue Eyes. For those daring individuals, why not try the Sicilian Kiss? You can sample your favorite for just $5 during Happy Hour every evening from 5 to 7 p.m. along with a half-price menu. Destin

Best Mexican/Latin American Restaurant

Pepito’s Mexican Restaurant

This authentic Mexican restaurant once again earns a spot on our “Best of” list because the restaurant’s delicious Mexican dishes are made with only the freshest ingredients. Olé!

The newest location, Crab Island Cantina, is located in HarborWalk Village. Destin, Miramar Beach and Niceville

Best Outdoor Bar

AJ’s Seafood & Oyster Bar

Come here with the entire family, your special someone or a group of friends to sip a cocktail and drink in the stunning harbor view before dinner or after … or both! This lively outdoor bar is situated on an oversized deck with a sweeping

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Best Mediterranean

Aegean Restaurant The Aegean Restaurant is a family owned and operated neighborhood Greek restaurant with fresh, authentic Greek and American dishes. Come and experience the food and hospitality of The Aegean Restaurant and let yourself be transported to the sunny lands of Greece. Miramar Beach and Shalimar

Best Outdoor Dining

Harry T’s

The circus memorabilia on display at Harry T’s adds to the fun atmosphere at the restaurant, but the boathouse is a favorite place for feasting on fresh seafood, burgers and steaks while enjoying fantastic views and a coastal breeze as well. Destin

Best Oysters

AJ’s Seafood & Oyster Bar

With a huge outdoor deck offering sweeping views of the Destin Harbor, great entertainment and friendly servers, AJ’s Seafood & Oyster Bar is the perfect place to down a dozen. Enjoy them raw, steamed or try Oysters AJ — a dozen oysters grilled and topped with jalapeño peppers, Monterey Jack cheese and bacon. Destin

Best Restaurant/ Okaloosa County

Magnolia Grill

The Magnolia Grill, which sits on historic Brooks Street in downtown Fort Walton Beach, is equal parts museum and dining establishment. The delicious steak, prime rib and seafood fare here is just the start of this 64 October–November 2012

historic gem owned by Tom and Peggy Rice. The walls of this 1910 catalog house showcase pieces of local history, including photos of people and places that now only exist in the memories of those who grew up or lived here “back in the day.” Fort Walton Beach

Lenny’s signature pepper relish, as well as fresh baked bread. Destin, Mary Esther, Fort Walton Beach, Niceville and Crestview

Best Pizza

Destin Ice Seafood Market & Deli offers the freshest selection of what the Gulf has to offer. Pick up some ready-to-eat or cook-athome fish, Buckhead meats, decadent desserts and a bottle of wine. Destin

Helen Back

Helen Back has friendly servers, ice cold beer and a casual, welcoming atmosphere, but it has expanded to five locations all along the Emerald Coast because it bakes the freshest possible ingredients into its homemade hand-tossed pizza. Destin, Crestview, Fort Walton Beach, Navarre and Valparaiso

Best Romantic Restaurant

Seagar’s Prime Steaks and Seafood

The exquisite cuisine designed by Chef Johnny Earles, the elegant atmosphere and attentive fivestar service makes this an intimate dining experience. Isn’t it romantic? Miramar Beach

Best Sandwich Shop

Lenny’s Sub Shop

At Lenny’s you really get it your way as you build your hot or cold deli sandwich or salad. The menu features fresh deli meats and cheeses, garden toppings and

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com

Best Seafood Market

Destin Ice Seafood Market & Deli

Best Seafood Restaurant

Dewey Destin Seafood

Situated in an old beach house overlooking the romantic Destin Harbor, Dewey’s is a great place for family dining or a romantic date. At the original location, you can enjoy fresh seafood as you sit at rustic tables along a dock overlooking the bay. Taste more than 100 years of Destin history as you bite into a delicious grouper sandwich or dig into the famous smoked tuna dip. Destin

Best Service (Food and Beverage)

Marlin Grill

Quality fine dining begins and ends with great service. Marlin Grill has a loyal following as a popular steak and seafood restaurant, because the quality cuisine, elegant atmosphere and

knowledgeable staff combine to make it a memorable dining experience that brings delighted patrons back again and again.

Miramar Beach

Best Sports Bar

Johnny O’Quigley’s Ale House

There’s not a bad seat in the house at neighborhood-style Johnny O’Quigley’s. The 48-inch big screen televisions lining the walls offer some of the best sports viewing in town, along with plenty of good food, wine and beer. Touchdown! Destin

Best Steakhouse

Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar Sandestin’s neighborhood steakhouse comes to life with a celebration of great food, wine and memorable times. Fleming’s serves the finest in USDA Prime beef — corn-fed, aged up to four weeks for flavor and texture, then hand-cut daily and broiled at 1600 degrees to seal in all the juices and flavor. Miramar Beach

Best Sushi

Harbor Docks

Though Harbor Docks is a seafood restaurant, the eatery features a large sushi and sashimi selection made fresh daily by master sushi chefs.

Inspired by Asian influences,

Photo by Scott Holstein

view of the Destin harbor. Come here to enjoy live music and daily Happy Hour specials from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Destin

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Best Golf Course

Regatta Bay Golf & Country Club

Best Thai

Royal Orchid

Sink into silk pillows around a traditional sunken Thai table or dine American style at a table or booth as you feast on delicious dishes like crispy duck, pad-thai, moo-yang and all sorts of curries. The familyoperated business offers exceptional service and a justright touch of Asian ambiance.

Miramar Beach

Best Wine List

Vin’tij Wine Boutique

Its remarkable list of some of the finest wines from the most respected vineyards in the world made Vin’tij Wine Boutique the top choice of the Emerald Coast’s wine lovers. The vibrant restaurant, filled with local art, also serves lunch and dinner with impeccable wine pairings from its extensive collection. Miramar Beach

ENTERTAINMENT Best Art Gallery

A.Wickey Studio-Gallery

World Six is an art-boutique located in Rosemary Beach featuring the work of 30A artists Allison Wickey (2011 Walton County Artist of the Year), Shantell Martin, Francisco Adaro, Steve Wagner and Andy Saczynski (voted Best Local Artist this year), with jewelry by Wendy Mignot and Adorn by Samouce and clothing by Nicole Paloma. Rosemary Beach

Best DJ

DJ Vladi

DJ VLADI is known as much for his excellent customer service, professionalism and passion as he is for getting people on the dance floor. For the past 10 years, his DJ skills have pumped up the entertainment value at private parties, weddings and corporate events.

66 October–November 2012

Best place for Kid’s Birthday Party

Abrakadoodle

With hundreds of lessons and talented teachers, Abrakadoodle art education programs are always new and exciting. But beyond its award-winning art programs, Abrakadoodle is also a perfect place for creative children to party! They provide a teacher, fun activities, art materials and a masterpiece for each child to take home. Choose a theme, or they can create a custom activity for you. Destin

Best Local Artist

Andy Saczynski

Andy Saczynski is known for saying he likes to turn “junk into funk.” Classified as an outside folk artist, he primarily works with acrylic, wood, metal, copper and recycled musical instruments. An award-winning artist born and raised on the Emerald Coast, Andy finds his artistic inspiration through music and in Florida’s architecture, landscape and wildlife. You can visit and purchase his work at the Andy Saczynski Studio-Gallery. Grayton Beach

Best Place To Be Seen

HarborWalk Village

The heart of Destin is found in one place: HarborWalk Village. This vibrant waterfront village filled with dozens of quaint boutique shops, lively restaurants and family-friendly entertainment, is the perfect gathering place for family and friends ready to begin or end their day. Destin

Best Place To Watch a Sunset

HarborWalk Village

Though there are plenty of gorgeous spots along the Emerald Coast, nothing beats HarborWalk Village at sunset. Overlooking Destin Harbor, it’s the perfect place to celebrate life in paradise. Destin

Best Local Attraction

Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park

The state’s oldest marine park is making a splash with exciting new programs, updated facilities and even a new name. In addition to ever popular dolphin and sea lion shows, you can splash with dolphin, feed penguins, snorkel with stingrays, play with sea otters, step in the shoes of an animal trainer to name a few.

Fort Walton Beach.

Best Local Event

Digital Graffiti at Alys Beach

Each June Alys Beach stages one

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of the most innovative art events in the country. During the weekend extravaganza, the coastal community opens its doors, courtyards and pedestrian paths to groundbreaking global digital artists who transform the town’s iconic white walls into vivid works of art. Alys Beach

Heritage broke into the pop/ reggae scene in 2009 with their debut album, Natural High. Now the group is gaining ground throughout the U.S.

Best musician/ vocalist/band

Owner John Wehner created this hot spot to offer the same eclectic and electric style as his other nightspot, the Famous Door on New Orleans’ Bourbon Street. The Village Door is Destin’s hottest live-music dance club. Linger at the lively bar, grab a table to watch the

Heritage

It all started in 2007 with three guys in a backyard playing a ukulele and a set of bongos just for fun. Rising from the backyards of Okaloosa County,

Best Place To Go Dancing

John Wehner’s Village Door

Photo Courtesy legendary/emerald grande

Harbor Docks also serves fresh seafood fried, sautéed or boiled. Destin

Positioned among nature preserves along Choctawhatchee Bay, this par72 course is a true escape into a golfer’s paradise. Designed by Robert C. Walker, Regatta Bay was selected as one of Golf Digest’s “Top Places to Play in North America.” Destin

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husband and father of two who works to make his community a better place for everyone, earning loyal fans year after year. Fort Walton Beach

Best Resort crowd or hit the dance floor to party the night away.

Miramar Beach

Best Place To Take the Kids

Big Kahuna’s Water Park

Thrills, chills and spills await you and your family at the destination for family fun. With more than 40 water attractions and an adventure park, Big Kahuna’s offers something fun for everyone.

Featuring dozens of slides and the biggest manmade waterfall in the world, your family is sure to have a blast. Destin

Best Radio Personality

Woofy, 99 Rock

He’s been a fixture on Emerald Coast radio since the early ’90s.

And Woofy’s listeners have seen him grow from a single man into a

Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort

The 2,400-acre resort, featuring 30 charming village neighborhoods with stunning beach and bay property, offers a complete resort experience for the entire family. With championship golf, world-class tennis, a vibrant village, a fullservice marina, water sports and children’s programs, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

Miramar Beach

Best Tennis Facility

Bluewater Bay tennis center

With more than 15 USTA and local men’s and women’s teams, over 60 active junior players, 12 annual tournaments and numerous member socials, Bluewater Bay Tennis Center certainly has a tennis game for every age and

2012

Thank you to our valued clients for voting us “Best Accounting Firm”

WE LIVE HERE. WE WORK HERE. Locally Owned and Operated • Personal connection with each client FULL SERVICE ACCOUNTING FIRM Au dit | Ta x | B o o k ke e p i ng | Pay roll | Estate / Re tire me nt P la nning | A N D M O R E DESTIN 1150 Airport Rd. Unit 172 850.654.9235 68 October–November 2012

www.coastalaccounting.net

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NICEVILLE 902A Palm Blvd. S. 850.729.1129

every level. This newly renovated tennis center features 12 beautifully maintained clay courts, a fully equipped clubhouse and a topshelf teaching staff. Niceville

Plastic Surgery’s Anti-Aging Clinic a pleasant one. Destin

SERVICE PROVIDERS

Since its founding in 1981 by two individual architects, Charles W. Clary, III, and Samuel Blimling, DAG Architects has consistently provided architectural services throughout Northwest Florida and the Southeast from its original base in Destin. Destin, Pensacola and Tallahassee

Best heating and air service

Gulf Shore Air Conditioning & Heating

Serving the Emerald Coast since 1995, Gulf Shore strives to exceed the highest standards for service and training. The company specializes in custom system design, ensuring you’ll be keeping cool in the summer and warm in the winter. Niceville

Best Accounting Firm

Coastal Accounting

Coastal Accounting provides outstanding service to its clients because of its core principals of professionalism, responsiveness and quality. Offering personal financial planning, estate planning, elder care, accounting and tax preparation services for both individuals and businesses, the firm’s primary goal as a trusted advisor is to be available to provide insightful advice so clients can make informed financial decisions. Destin and Niceville

Best Acupuncture Clinic

Tortoise Clinic

Every patient at Tortoise Clinic receives not only their specific acupuncture but also dietary advice based on 3,500-year-old Chinese dietetics, as well as hot and cold therapy. The clinic also makes its own pain relief liniment based on a 600-year-old formula. Miramar Beach

Best Aesthetician

Melissa St. John

Melissa St. John has been a licensed esthetician since 2005.

She has a true passion in the skincare industry, helping her clients achieve optimal results through clinical grade procedures and products. She is also a certified Xtreme Lash Extension stylist, offering lash extensions and fills. Melissa’s sweet and bubbly personality will surely make your experience at Destin

Best Architect

DAG architects, inc.

Dj Vladi GULF COAST PREMIER DJ FOR OVER 10 YEARS » LOCAL NIGHT CLUBS » WEDDINGS » PRIVATE PARTIES

Best Audio/visual provider

Audio Video by Stan

Audio Video by Stan was founded

by Stan Zawisza in 2009. His dedication to customer service and vast knowledge of new technology has made AV by Stan the best in the business. From design to installation, AV by Stan can customize your home theater system and integrate home automation down to the touch of a button.

2012

Best Automobile Dealership

Sam Taylor BuickCadillac

One of the largest volume Buick and Cadillac dealers along the Gulf Coast, Sam Taylor Buick Cadillac is dedicated to its customers. It must be working.

The staff’s attention to customer service has earned the dealership a return spot on our Best of list for the fifth year in a row.

Fort Walton Beach

(850) 217-4339 djvladi123@gmail.com djvladi.com

Thank you for voting us Best Charter Boat/Watersports 2011-2012

2012

Best Automobile Repair

Sam Taylor BuickCadillac

Staffed with qualified, professional technicians ready to answer your questions and address your needs, Sam Taylor delivers exceptional automotive service. Fort Walton Beach

Best Bank

Regions

Regions Financial Corporation, with $127 billion in assets, is a member of the S&P 500 Index and one of the nation’s largest full-service providers of consumer and commercial banking, wealth management, mortgage and insurance products and services. Regions is a community-minded bank

850-650-2628 Boat Rentals Jet Ski Rentals Charter Boats Watersports destinvacationboatrentals.com EmeraldCoastMagazine.com

October–November 2012 69

2012

Thank you for voting us “Best Plumbing Fixtures/ Service”

70 October–November 2012

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committed to helping all of its customers enjoy banking with ease. Locations throughout the Emerald Coast

Best Boat Sales and Service

Legendary Marine

One of the top boat dealers in the country, Legendary Marine caters to the needs of the discriminating buyer and offers an array of services, from new and pre-owned boat sales to a parts and service department and boat service. The dealership’s commitment to quality and customer satisfaction has made it a local favorite.

Destin and Fort Walton Beach

Best Builder/Contractor

Dixon Kazek Morrison Custom Homes

Having won first place in the Parade of Homes seven times, as well as the Emerald Coast Association of Realtors (ECAR) Realtors Choice Award and the Building Industry Association Builder of the Year award, Dixon Kazek Construction proves that quality construction is the heart of the company’s philosophy.

Miramar Beach

Best Charter Boat/ Watersports

Destin Vacation Boat Rentals

To enjoy all that Destin has to offer, Destin Vacation Boat Rentals can make it happen. Providing fishing, pontoon or powerboat rentals (including fishing and snorkeling gear) and jet skis, they allow you to have fun in the sun and make the most out of life on the Emerald Coast. Destin

Best Chiropractic Practice

Payne Chiropractic Wellness Center

Dr. Alan Payne and his team at Payne Chiropractic Wellness Center can help get your body back into proper alignment and strive to give people of all ages optimal health through natural chiropractic care. The state-ofthe-art healing facility’s services include massage, clinical nutrition with the BioMeridian assessment tool and Aqua Chi hydro-therapy device. Destin

Best Customer Service

Sam Taylor BuickCadillac

Since 1974, carrying on the family tradition means ensuring that 100 percent of Sam Taylor customers are satisfied 100 percent of the time. The dealership’s total customer satisfaction approach is the guiding principal that distinguishes it from other dealers in the area. Fort Walton Beach

Best Dental Practice

The Center for Cosmetic and Family Dentistry

Led by Dr. Dennis Lichorwic, who was just elected president of the Florida Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, and Dr. Fred Tepedino the Center offers family dentistry and cosmetic dentistry, as well as the Zoom Advanced Power laser teeth whitening system, and Invisalign and Invisalign Teen invisible aligners, earning the practice its ninth Best of the Emerald Coast award. Destin and Panama City Beach

Best Dermatology Practice/Skin Care

Coastal Skin Surgery & Dermatology

Providing a wide array of surgical, cosmetic and medical dermatology services, including Fraxel laser skin resurfacing and Mohs Micrographic Surgery, Coastal Skin Surgery Center is dedicated to providing the finest dermatologic care on the Emerald Coast to maximize your skin’s health. Fort Walton Beach and Miramar Beach

Best Dry Cleaner

French Laundry

Having recently spent $100,000 on an environmentally friendly dry clean machine, French Laundry avoids harsh chemicals. They also clean wedding gowns, provide wash-dry-fold services, minor repairs and even clean military and band uniforms at a discounted price. No wonder they were voted the best. Miramar Beach and Santa Rosa Beach EmeraldCoastMagazine.com

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SHALIMAR

1259 EGLIN PARKWAY (850) 613-6120

MIRAMAR BEACH 11225 US HWY 98 (850) 460-2728

“LIVE LONGER, EAT LIKE THE GREEKS”

BREAKFAST LUNCH DINNER FULL BAR DRINK SPECIALS GREEK FOOD DAILY SPECIALS AEGEANFL.COM

Best Pet Care/Shop

Bow Wow Meow Pet Company

Bow Wow Meow offers a healthy selection of foods for dogs and cats. When owners John and Natalie Scanlan’s dog, Buddy, experienced digestive problems, they found natural and organic dog and cat food made in the United States and made it available at their shop. A bonus: the self-wash rooms allow pet owners to rinse sand-covered paws. Paws up on that. Seagrove Beach

Best Event Planner

Monark Events

MEDITERRANEAN

Voted Best Lighting Store for the past 3 years

Founded in 2007, Monark Events is a full-service event management company that specializes in planning and staging corporate, non-profit and private functions nationwide.

Founded on the principals of trust, service, creativity and exceeding expectations, Monark Events’ name is more than appropriate — (MON) “One” (A-R-K) “Act of Random Kindness.” Destin

Best eye doctor practice

Dr. Kevin Wells, O.D.

Beautiful Lights

2012

BEST LIGHTING STORE

Lighting & Design Consultation | Residential & Commercial Lighting Lighting to meet any budget

Shops of Destiny

36236 Emerald Coast Pkwy, Suite C2 | Destin, FL | (850) 650-9417 72 October–November 2012

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com

In practice for more than 14 years, Dr. Kevin Wells is committed to attaining exceptional results for his patients. A leader in the optical industry, Wells Vision and Laser Eye Center offers comprehensive exams, designer eyewear and the most advanced laser correction.

Destin and Seacrest

best flooring (carpet/tile)

Infinity Flooring

Once again, Infinity Flooring proves it values its work and its customers. The flooring company offers quality hardwood flooring, tiles, vinyl and carpet products at reasonable prices while

schedules are kept and customer concerns are promptly taken care of. Miramar Beach

Best Florist

GG Bloom

Like an Old English garden filled with wonderful and unique aged pottery, beautiful flowers and home and garden accents, GG Bloom has a unique flair for creating amazing flower arrangements and gift baskets.

And if you prefer silk flowers that fool anyone, GG Bloom designs arrangements that will stand the test of time. Destin

best gym/health club/ fitness center

Destin Health and Fitness Club

The Emerald Coast’s first-ever upscale health and fitness center offers the ultimate workout experience in its state-of-the-art facilities. With a wide range of classes, including the new TRX class (a body weight suspension class), as well as new equipment coming in constantly, no wonder it ranked No. 1 with our readers.

Destin and Miramar Beach

Best Insurance agency

Harris Insurance

Harris Insurance Services is a licensed insurance brokerage firm authorized to serve throughout

2012

Smith’s Antiques & Interiors Market

decorating nirvana • 850.654.1484 the State of Florida. A full-service insurance provider since 1965, Harris represents more than 150 insurance companies in order to bring the most reputable, A-rated insurance companies under one roof to provide comprehensive solutions for your insurance needs. Fort Walton Beach

Best Hair Salon

Avantgarde Salon & Spa

Avantgarde Salon Spa is a fullservice AVEDA salon and spa offering hair, body and skin services and treatments in two locations (Emerald Coast Parkway and Destin Commons). An Emerald Coast Top Salon finalist in 2011 and 2012, Avantgarde has been named a Top 200 Salon in the United States by Salon Today for 10 consecutive years. Destin

Photo by Scott Holstein

Best Landscaping/ Lawn Service

Barefoot Lawn Care & Landscape

Barefoot has serviced the 30A area and Destin since 1997, providing professional irrigation services, sodding, seeding and mulching, and even fountains and water features. Trying to sell your home? Barefoot can improve your home’s curb appeal and value. Santa Rosa Beach

Best Interior Design Firm

Design Avenue

A full-service interior design center, Design Avenue is also a unique destination for fun gifts.

Led by Best Interior Designer Ashley Harkins, Design Avenue provides help with every stage of the design process. Destin

Located on Highway 98 at Holiday Road (midway between Destin Commons and Sandestin) Monday–Saturday 10 am–6 pm, Sunday 12 pm–5 pm www.smithsantiquesmall.com

Thanks for voting us “Best Antique Store” for 13 Consecutive Years!

Best Law Firm

Matthews, Jones & Hawkins LLP

By recently expanding services to Niceville and DeFuniak Springs, and with the addition of Michael Jones to the firm formerly known as Matthews & Hawkins, MJ&H proves client service is key. More than a traditional provider of legal services, the firm strives to find innovative and practical solutions to client problems. Destin, Niceville and DeFuniak Springs

Best Lighting Store

Beautiful Lights

Fitting every need, every whim and every budget, Beautiful Lights has provided impeccable service, from selection (or a custom design) to installation, for four years. The shop works with residential and commercial clients to customize perfectly beautiful lighting for all. Destin EmeraldCoastMagazine.com

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health and maternity care.

Miramar Beach

Best Medical Practice

White-Wilson Medical Center Best car/limo/ shuttle Service

654 LIMO

Since 2003, 654 Limo has been the premier luxury ground transportation on the Emerald Coast. Arrive in style in one of Florida’s premier limousine rental vehicles. Or enjoy a luxurious chauffeured ride in a stretch Hummer, Navigator or Escalade and see why the company is tops in limo service. Destin

Best Martial Arts/ karate

Resolute Martial Arts

Resolute Martial Arts provides excellent character-building martial arts classes and fitness instruction in a professional, family friendly and fun environment. Each program is designed to promote mental and physical growth for the whole family. All of the instructors are CPR, first aid and AED certified. Destin

Best Massage Therapist

Neal Senn, Avantgarde Salon & Spa

Neal Senn has the magic touch.

The five-time Best of the Emerald Coast winner offers a variety of massages, including Swedish, stone, deep tissue, elemental nature, pregnancy and couples massage. And he’s the only massage therapist in the area to offer scar tissue removal for patients recovering from surgery.

We feel better already. Destin

Best Medical Center/ Hospital

Sacred Heart Hospital on the Emerald Coast This state-of-the-art medical center continues to accomplish its mission to improve the health of the community with a wide range of medical and surgical services, including intensive care, general and orthopedic surgery, cardiology, cancer care, comprehensive radiology and laboratory services, rehabilitation, 24-hour emergency care, women’s 74 October–November 2012

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White-Wilson Medical Center is one of the largest multi-specialty physician groups on Florida’s Emerald Coast. With more than 70 providers, 20 different specialties and multiple locations throughout Fort Walton Beach, Destin and Niceville, White-Wilson provides a range of healthcare services.

White-Wilson employs state-ofthe-art technology, coupled with skilled and experienced providers, friendly and caring staff, and the convenience of “one-stop” shopping. Fort Walton Beach, Niceville and Destin

Best Nail Salon

4 Seasons Nail & Spa

Nail down a date soon for some “me” time at Destin’s favorite place to be pampered — 4 Seasons Nail & Spa. A staff of four certified technicians will spoil you with your choice of pedicures, manicures, artificial nails, eyebrow waxing, eyelash tinting and more. Located next to Marshall’s, 4 Seasons is ready to spoil you year round. Destin

Best Photographer

Pure 7 Studios

Take one look at their photos and you immediately see how the photography team at Pure 7 Studios captures the humanity and emotion of their subjects. The images capture the wonderful moments in life with a passion only true artists can attain. Destin

Best Plumbing Fixtures/ Service

Fixture Exchange

For more than 20 years, the Fixture Exchange has been committed to fitting the Emerald Coast with quality plumbing fixtures. With access to more than 400 manufacturers, if you can dream it, they can supply it. Destin

Best Pool Building Service Company

Cox Pools

A family-owned business that has been serving Northwest Florida for more than 50 years, Cox Pools provides personal pool design assistance, as well as a full line of

pool maintenance accessories.

The Pool Wish List on the company’s website lets you design your pool online. What fun! Destin

Best Printing Services

Copy Systems, inc.

Copy Systems is a one-stop shop for all your personal and professional printing needs. This customer service-oriented business offers a wide variety of signs, printing and promotional items that will help your business grow. Copy Systems uses the latest technology to create your products and offer innovative design solutions. Santa Rosa Beach and Destin

Best Real Estate Group

John Paul Somers & Company

With more than 20 years experience, John Paul Somers & Company is the go-to company for Emerald Coast real estate.

Selling both residential and commercial real estate and undeveloped lots and land, John Paul Somers is passionate about using his knowledge of the market to help his clients accomplish their personal real estate goals. Destin

Best Rug Retailer

Rug Décor

More rugs, more help, more service — that’s what the friendly and knowledgeable design staff offer as they assist in selecting just the right rug from the industry’s best names in traditional, modern and contemporary area and accent rugs, all shipped at no cost to you. Destin

Best Spa Services

Serenity by the sea Spa Serenity is the place on the Emerald Coast to be pampered.

Serenity is a full-service spa, salon and fitness center located at Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa. Whether you select one treatment or make a day of it, you’ll treat your mind, body and soul to total bliss.

Miramar Beach

Best surgical practice

Destin Plastic Surgery Dr. William Burden and Dr. Lawrence Scott Ennis are innovative leaders in the field of

plastic surgery. Destin Plastic Surgery delivers first-class services for its patients in a safe, comfortable and welcoming environment. Their skilled and friendly support team works seamlessly to present all of your plastic surgery options and achieve your desired goals. Destin

Simply the Best

Best Vacation Rental company/service

ResortQuest

With superior accommodations, unmatched customer service and exceptional value, ResortQuest earns top ratings from customers.

The firm has the largest selection of condos and vacation homes to fit your lifestyle and budget.

Destin, Fort Walton Beach and Santa Rosa Beach

Best Veterinarian

Barry Veterinary hospital

Barry Veterinary Hospital Inc. is a full-service companion animal hospital. Their experienced, professional staff and quality facilities demonstrates their commitment to providing quality veterinary care throughout your pet’s life. Destin

BEST WOMEN’S CLOTHING

Best Wedding Planner

Shelby Peaden Events

She studied interior design and fine arts, but Shelby Peaden loves designing events and, in particular, weddings. With attention to the smallest details and a personal one-on-one approach, Shelby Peaden Events helps brides and grooms create a magical memory of their special day. Destin

Best Wedding/ Reception Venue

Solaris, SunQuest Cruises

A wedding ceremony is special, a wedding aboard Solaris, Sunquest Cruises sailing off into the sunset is a modern day fairytale. This elegant yacht features a full-service bridal consulting team specializing in romantic weddings on the water.

Miramar Beach

Best Weight Loss facility

Dr. Bawa & Associates

Dr. Nitin Bawa is passionate about helping patients feel better

THANK YOU FOR VOTING US THE BEST FOR 12 YEARS

850.837.5565 Located Across From The Destin Commons, Next to Publix

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2012

MEN’S APPAREL

by getting to a healthier weight.

He uses medications, hormone adjustments and lasers to help with weight loss and is continually researching which trends and options have scientific merit.

Santa Rosa Beach

SHOPPING Best Antique Shop

Smith’s Antiques Mall & Interiors Market

Receiving rave reviews since it opened its doors in 1993, Smith’s Antiques’ 25,000-square-foot showroom is full of antiques and interior wares from 90 different dealers located throughout the country, and continues to be an antique lover’s favorite spot.

Miramar Beach

Best Children’s Clothing retailer

Hugs and Hissyfits

A nine-time Best of winner and brainchild of owner Lisa McKee, Hugs and Hissyfits offers the best in children’s boutique clothing by designers that include Little 76 October–November 2012

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com

Mass, Miss Me, Mimi and Maggie and Bailey Boys, among others.

Hugs’ motto is, “If we don’t love it, we don’t buy it.” Destin and Fort Walton Beach

Best Consignment Shop

Ava’s Attic

The second time’s a charm at Ava’s Attic. This cheery boutique is two shops in one. One side features an extensive selection of designer fashions, shoes and accessories for women and children, while the other side features beautiful furniture, home décor and bedding — all at great prices. Miramar Beach

Best Eyewear Store

The Eye Gallery

The Eye Gallery offers the latest in sunglass and prescription eyewear. Its distinctive collection of eyewear ranges from preserving the timeless to inspiring the creative and flattering the beautiful. The Eye Gallery strives to offer the utmost in customer service and has a proven track record of loyal customers since 1991. Destin

Best Locally Owned Retailer

Sporty Lady of Destin

Women all over the Emerald Coast are sporting swimwear and sportswear from this family owned retailer. The shop strives to give its customers a vast selection of styles and a wide variety of sizes in its 4,800-square-foot store at the Shoppes at Paradise Key. Destin

2012

Best Beachwear Retailer

Sporty Lady of Destin

A beach-lover’s dream, Sporty Lady of Destin offers expert sizing advice, as well as the perfect suit (or two or three) for all sizes and shapes among its 10,000 swimsuits in inventory, and has been winning customers over for more than 30 years. Destin

Best Furniture retailer

Sugar Beach Interiors Referred to as “A Design and Art Gallery,” Sugar Beach Interiors has grown into a team of professional licensed designers.

Their steadfast success is attributed to their reputation for business integrity and their commitment to interior design excellence, which begins with their customer service and extends through every department of the firm. Destin

Best Gift Shop

Photo by Scott Holstein

P.S. Gifts

Need help finding the perfect gift for any occasion? The staff at P.S. Gifts helps customers find that special something that’s just right — and also offers free gift-wrapping — and will deliver your gift with a smile. Fort Walton Beach

Best Jewelry Store

McCaskill & Company

Owners Bill and Elizabeth Campbell and their staff offer expert guidance, suggestions and advice as they strive to make each

BEST SANDWICH SHOP

THANKS for VOTING US BEST SANDWICH SHOP 3 YEARS IN A ROW! Beal Pkwy. FWB 863-2015 Panama City 215-1118 Mary Esther 664-9000

Bluewater 897-0282 Navarre Coming Soon Crestview 689-0202

lennys.com

visit to McCaskill & Company a special occasion. Some of the world’s most exclusive jewelry and watch designers, including David Yurman, Tag Heuer and Paul Morelli, mean you get the best fine jewelry selection in the Emerald Coast. Miramar Beach

Best Men’s apparel

Destin Threads

Retailer Marsha Chouinard has been dressing the Emerald Coast for more than 20 years. Her boutique shop, located in The Shops of Destiny, carries quality men’s apparel brands like Vineyard Vines, Southern Tides, Robert Graham and more.

Ladies, don’t worry. Destin Threads carries a nice selection of women’s apparel, too! Destin

Best Outdoor Furniture retailer

Bay Breeze Patio

Celebrating eight years on the Emerald Coast, Bay Breeze Patio owners Wayne Paul and Susan Kiley are passionate about outdoor living. From grills and fire pits to furniture and EmeraldCoastMagazine.com

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Your World Made Simple.

Home Automation I Surround Sound Systems I Multi-room Audio I Universal Remote Controls Motorized Shades I Lighting Systems I Marine Audio

2012

78 October–November 2012

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com

Imagine all your music, movies, sports and TV, at your command via touch screen, touch pad, iPhone or iPad. Imagine your security, climate and lighting, all under your control, wherever you are, by wireless device.

That’s what an ELAN g! Entertainment and Control System can bring you.

accessories, the store features everything that goes into creating the mostcomfortable outdoor living spaces.Miramar Beach

Best Sporting Goods retailer

Bass Pro Shops For the outdoors man, woman or child who loves fishing, hunting, camping and boating, the 50,000-square-foot sports center features an exhaustive selection of gear and gadgets to suit every outdoor lover. Destin

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.

Best Toy Store

Learning Express For the best selection of unique, educational and age-appropriate toys, Learning Express offers it all. The self-proclaimed “neighborhood toy store” is a hub of activity, a meeting spot for kids and families and a one-stop destination for toys that help raise smart, healthy kids. Miramar Beach

Best Wedding Shop

Simply Elegant Bridal Celebrating every bride’s special day, Simply Elegant wins again for offering the largest selection of bridal and bridesmaid gowns. This wedding boutique also offers the best selection of tuxedoes for the groom and his groomsmen.

Fort Walton Beach

2012 MON-SAT 10A.M.-7P.M. • SUN 11A.M.-3P.M. 4935 E. CO. HWY. 30-A, SUITE 3 • SEAGROVE BEACH, FL 32459 4 WWW.BOWWOWMEOWPETCOMPANY.COM

• 850-534-0009

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

Best Women’s Accessories

Private Gallery The friendly staff makes each guest feel as if they are in their own private gallery, hence the name.

Serving a niche market with an eclectic mix of jewelry, handbags, shoes and clothing, the boutique features top names, as well as up-andcoming designers. Destin

Best Women’s Apparel

Today’s Boutique Celebrating 31 years in business and its 12th Best of win, Today’s offers exceptional service and a large selection of the latest trends in the Shoppes of Paradise Key. Check out the store’s website for the latest trend report, or just stop in for expert advice from the staff. Destin

Best Women’s Shoes

Sunset Shoes Inspired by the beautiful beaches and relaxed atmosphere of Northwest Florida, comfort and easygoing style are the hallmark of Sunset Shoes’ footwear collections. With four locations between Destin and Panama City Beach, Sunset Shoes has become the Euro-comfort headquarters on the Emerald Coast. Destin, Miramar Beach and Panama City Beach ec EmeraldCoastMagazine.com

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McGuire's Irish Pub brews five regular fine ales, porters and stout beers and a rotating seasonal option.

Not sure which to choose?

Sample them all.

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r e e B re! e H

By Thomas J. Monigan Photos by Scott Holstein

A new generation of craft beer is brewing up on the Emerald Coast

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No doubt about it, craft beer has become big business on the national and regional levels in recent years.

Whether you prefer to tap into domestic, imported, local labels or your very own brewed “basement” batch, you are not alone in your love of suds here on the Emerald Coast. Since it is Oktoberfest season, we thought we’d fill our pages — and a stein or two — with a sampling of the pubs, brewers, beer-laden events and recipes we have found along the Emerald Coast. To all of them we say, “Prost!”

definition:

zymurgy (zī'mûr'jē) n.

The branch of chemistry that deals with fermentation processes, as in brewing.

McGuire's Irish Pub

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You can easily belly up to the bar at the Luke Girman home in Destin where he happily home brews his favorite flavors in 5-gallon batches.

Raising the (Underground) Bar

It really wasn’t that long ago when the term “homebrew” might have involved images of moonshiners distilling “white lightning” in remote rural areas while remaining ever wary of federal government agents known as “revenuers.”

But for at least the past 30 years, there have been some bold homebrew innovators proudly involved in what they will tell you is “zymurgy,” which Mike Nelson of Fort Walton Beach is quick to mention is the last word in the dictionary, defined as “the branch of chemistry concerned with fermentation processes in brewing.”

Nelson is president of Homebrewers Underground Emerald Coast Florida, which deliberately shares its HBU acronym with the term “Hop Bittering Units.”

This club has been around since the early 1980s, according to Nelson. Sometimes referred to as “a drinking club with a brewing problem,” it has about 30 dues-paying members who live anywhere from Navarre to Ponce de Leon, and meetings are held on the second Saturday of each month.

“Everything in the craft has gotten better,” Nelson said, “mainly because of the availability of ingredients. Any brewer can go Internet shopping for supplies at 3 a.m., and we do it. Anything you can want your beer to taste like, you can make it happen.”

Anything? “Quite a few of us have tried garlic beer,” Nelson replied with a chuckle. “It sounds like a good idea, but some things just don’t work.”

But while some homebrewers enjoy bonding and sharing, others find a certain appeal in doing things on their own, without joining a club. Someone like Luke Girman is an example of this generation on the rise.

Girman recently moved from Crestview to Destin because of his position as assistant manager and beer expert with Kelley’s Beach Liquors. Introduced to homebrewing by a fraternity brother at Bowling Green State University, Girman has been making his own beer for nearly three years.

In that time he’s produced more than two dozen 5-gallon batches, ranging from ambers to stouts to an Irish red and a

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vanilla porter. “But no India Pale Ales or pale ales — that’s not my style,” he said.

A 5-gallon batch can cost anywhere from $20 to $60 to produce and the process can take from four weeks to two-and-a-half months, according to Girman. Basic ingredients are available in kits and involve grain (barley, rice, wheat or rye), yeast and hops.

First comes making the “wort,” which is what becomes beer. The grain is boiled at a temperature of about 150 degrees and then left to sit for about an hour.

This helps pull the natural sugars from the (Top and bottom) McGuire's grain. Then the wort is brought to a full boil, masterbrewer Tom Anderson and the hops are added at three different offers tours of the brewery by request. Homebrewers can times. First comes the bittering hop (the most take home McGuire's yeast to pungent) at the point of boiling. With about try in their next recipe. (Far 15 minutes left in the boil is the flavor hop. right) Hofbräu Beer Garden in The Village of Baytowne Wharf When the boil is topped comes the aroma serves up old-world beer hop. Then the wort is left to cool to about 70 garden charm beginning with degrees, and this is when the yeast is added. costume-clad mädchens.

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This begins the fermentation process that turns the wort into the finished product of beer.

“You can do different things to get the alcohol content up, but in doing so, you sacrifice flavor,” Girman said. “You can use more sugar and the stronger yeast, or you can even add table sugar or honey.”

Just before and during fermentation, a hydrometer (a calibrated flotation device) measures the amount of sugar and the density of fluid. Sugar is dense, alcohol is lighter. Then comes a second stage or fermentation, in which the liquid is transferred to another vessel. This helps to clarify the beer and get rid of the sediment. Once that process is complete, the brewer has to decide whether the beer will go into kegs or bottles.

“I bottle all my beer,” Girman said. “A 5-gallon batch yields about 48 12-ounce bottles. The good majority I give out to people. That way I can get feedback on what they like or dislike. It also helps to get people interested in brewing themselves. I had a couple batches where I was not overly thrilled,” he recalled, “but the unwritten law is, ‘You brew it, you drink it.’ So you’re not being wasteful.”

But success apparently makes up for any failure while learning. “Vanilla Porter is by far my favorite,” Girman said. “It had just the right amount of sweetness and the right amount of bitterness. It went down very, very easy.”

Where to Belly Up to the (Micro Brew) Bar

If you don’t have your very own brew in a barrel in your basement, don’t worry, there are plenty of other options to fill your mug. While one local restaurant has patiently produced its own brew for almost 25 years, several other operations have recently tapped the Emerald Coast market.

“When we started out, craft beer was 1 percent of the overall beer market,” said Tom Anderson, the brewmaster at McGuire’s Irish Pub, which has locations in Pensacola and Destin. “Now we’re at 11 percent and still growing.”

McGuire’s offers six of its own beers on tap at all times, and annual rotation can mean it offers as many as 10 selections. So strong is their local identity that Anderson says of regional craft brewers such as Terrapin, SweetWater or Sierra Nevada: “We’re not chasing them, they’re chasing us.”

Mainstays for McGuire’s are beers such as Millennium Ale and Scotch Ale, and six-packs of its Irish Red can be found in many local retail stores.

Anderson is particularly proud of his Imperial Stout, the ingredients of which include cherry wood smoke malt, ancho chilies, Hershey’s extra dark cocoa and 84 pounds of extra cherries.

Heads Up!

Tired of the bar scene?

Head to these festive fall beer events happening all across the Emerald Coast.

Escambia Bay Homebrewers Emerald Coast Beer Festival, Sept. 8 Seville Quarter, downtown Pensacola

Pensacola Beer Festival, Sept. 15–16 Pensacola Interstate Fairgrounds

First Annual German Oktoberfest, Oct. 5 New World Landing, downtown Pensacola

Panama City Oktoberfest, Oct. 13 Downtown Panama City

Inaugural Destin Beer Festival, Oct. 13

Chan's Wine World in Destin

Beer From Around Here Festival, Oct. 20

Marlin Grill, The Village of Baytowne Wharf

Sixth Annual Baytowne Wharf Beer Fest, Oct. 20–21 The Village of Baytowne Wharf, Sandestin

Taste of the Beer Charity Auction, Nov. 4

Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa

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(Right) Jamey Price hopes “It’s the port wine of beer,” he said. to go “beyond the pale “It’s 9.5 percent alcohol by volume, (ale)” with the construction and it has such a depth of character.” of Grayton Beach's first brewery; (below and top And, of course, Oktoberfest is right) Airman-themed always a seasonal favorite. “It’s a little beers are on tap in Fort different every year, but we’ve got it Walton Beach at Props Craft Brewery; Founders Elliott pretty well dialed in,” Anderson said.

Eckland and Mark Robertson “When you’ve got that Munich and "mug" for the camera in Pensacola Bay Brewery.

Vienna malt and German hops, you can’t go wrong.”

Located just off Seville Square near downtown Pensacola, is the Pensacola Bay Brewery, which belongs to Elliott Eckland and Mark Robertson. It is not a restaurant or a pub, but you can get chips and a cheese platter if you visit the tasting room.

“Once you get used to drinking a good craft beer, it’s very hard to go back,” Eckland said. “It’s like drinking fine wine and then going back to MD 20-20.”

Pensacola Bay Brewery’s products are traveling as far as Tampa and Clearwater, and demand creates expansion.

“We’re brewing four batches a week, sometimes more,” Eckland said. “We’ve got five tanks and three 30-barrel fermenters. (A barrel is 31 U.S. gallons). We plan on brewing two batches five or six days a week.”

Raspberry Berliner Weiss was a big summertime hit, and a special Oktoberfest is being produced for an inaugural Oktoberfest event to be held at New World Landing in downtown Pensacola.

As far as competition is concerned, Eckland stated: “There are no secrets in the brew business. We all help each other ... there’s plenty of room for everybody.”

It took five months for Dane Randall to produce the first product at Props Craft Brewery — a Fort Walton Beach pub owned by Air Force pilots Nathan Vannatter and Michael Kee, which opened near the Brooks Bridge in late 2011. But the debut of Four Kings (an American brown ale) and Flying Coffin (an IPA) has been successful.

“We’ve got about 160 gallons in two tanks,” Randall reported earlier this year. “We spend one day brewing, seven days of fermenting and the last three days carbonating each batch. It wasn’t as easy as we thought to produce, but

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Photo by Shelly Swanger (Grayton Beer) and Howard Robinson (Pensacola Bay Brewery)

it’s been very well received. It has its own niche market.

Like steak or like seafood, it has its own following.”

Jamey Price is two years into his dream project and reports that construction of Grayton Beer’s first brewery has begun in the South Walton Commerce Park. Making its debut in 2011, Grayton Beer’s Pale Ale and India Pale Ale are being produced under contract by a third-party brewer. “The response has been extremely positive,” Price reflected. “You will always have naysayers. We don’t have to make beers that everybody likes, but at least one they will love.”

The footprint of the brewery calls for 15,000 square feet located on almost two acres, with options around it that would allow for expansion. “We’ve doubled our projections so far,” Price said. “The key to our success has been owners, managers, bartenders and servers, along with retail outlets, being able to relate who we are to the consumer.”

Once the brewing becomes local, plans call for American-style Kolsch called “Land Cruiser,” which would be 4.2 percent alcohol by volume. “We’ve been working on that beer for about two years,” Price said. “The key to us is consistency. It needs to be real clean and crisp. We are at the beach trying to get a beer that people can consume more than a couple of.” ec

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Cooking withit yoBureer favorite

Why lim mug? Here ee b r to a frosty d savory t an are a few swee cal chefs recipes from lo our on to p that allow you eers!

Ch r. vo the fla

Smoked Chicken & Andouille Sausage Gumbo 5 lbs. pulled smoked chicken meat 4 lbs. Andouille sausage, cut into quarter-size medallions 4 ½ cups canola oil 4 cups all-purpose flour 2 pounds diced yellow onions 2 pounds diced green bell peppers 1 gallon beef broth/stock 72 ounces beer, Bud Light (or similar) ⅔ cup Cajun seasoning (unsalted) ½ cup garlic powder ⅓ cup celery salt 1 teaspoon round black pepper 1 teaspoon ground white pepper Dash of cayenne pepper Pour oil into a stock pot and set on high/medium high heat. Once the oil becomes hot, and before the smoking point, add the all-purpose flour. Using a whisk, stir until the flour and oil are completely combined and smooth. Turn heat to medium/ medium high and continue stirring with the whisk until the roux becomes a peanut butter color and begins to have the aroma of toasted peanuts (approximately 45 minutes). Add the diced green bell peppers and diced yellow onions to the brown roux.

Continue using the whisk and stir until vegetables are coated evenly with the roux. Cook vegetables until they become soft and roux becomes darker, about the color of chocolate (approximately 15 minutes). Add the beef stock, beer and seasonings.

Stir well until the soup is smooth and there are no lumps. Raise heat to high and bring to a boil. Add the smoked pulled chicken meat and the andouille sausage. Lower heat to low-medium and allow gumbo to simmer for 25 minutes.Remove from heat and serve immediately or cool immediately. Serve with rice. Yields 3 ₁⁄₂ gallons.

Recipe courtesy of Chef John Sallman of Salty’s Seafood Rolls & Gumbo

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Smoked Chicken & Andouille Sausage Gumbo

Blueberry Beer BBQ Chicken

Blueberry Beer BBQ Chicken Serves eight

Warm Guinness Spice Cake With Lemon Custard Ice Cream 1 cup Guinness stout 1 cup molasses ½ teaspoon baking soda 2 cups all-purpose flour 1½ teaspoons baking powder 2 tablespoons ground ginger 1 teaspoon cinnamon ¼ teaspoon allspice ¼ teaspoon nutmeg 1 pinch cardomon 3 whole eggs 1 cup brown sugar 1 cup granulated sugar ¾ cup vegetable oil Pre-heat oven to 350°, then butter and flour your bundt cake pan. In a saucepot, bring the stout and molasses to a boil, turn off and whisk in the baking soda. Then cool to room temperature. Mix the flour, baking powder and spices in a large mixing bowl.

Whisk together the eggs and sugars, then whisk in the oil. Then whisk in the molasses to the egg mixture and mix well. Add

1 whole chicken cut into eight pieces 6 12-ounce bottles Wild Blue beer ½ cup brown sugar ½ cup ketchup ¼ cup Worcestershire sauce 1 pint blueberries 1 teaspoon garlic, chopped Salt and pepper to taste

the wet mix to the flour mix and mix just enough to incorporate, but don’t over mix it. Pour the batter into the bundt cake pan and rap the pan on the counter to release any air bubbles in the batter. Bake cake until a pick comes out smooth, about 50 minutes.

Lemon Custard Ice Cream 1 quart heavy cream 1 cup sugar ½ cup lemon juice 3 tablespoons lemon zest 2 teaspoons vanilla extract 7 egg yolks In a non-reactive saucepot combine the first five ingredients and bring to a light simmer.

Whisk in the egg yolks and continue to whip until the eggs thicken the sauce slightly. Strain the ice cream through a fine mesh. Cool the ice cream in the cooler and freeze according to the ice cream makers instruction.

Recipe courtesy of Chef John Jacob of Vintij Wine Boutique

In a sauce pot simmer the beer until it has reduced by 75 percent. Add the brown sugar, ketchup, Worcestershire, blueberries and garlic. Simmer for 10 minutes or until the blueberries pop and cook down. Season with the salt and pepper. Preheat a grill to medium high heat, place the chicken on the grill skin side down. Cook until ¾ done, then turn the pieces over. Once chicken is almost done baste the barbecue sauce mixture over the chicken pieces. Repeat frequently.

Note: If this is done too early, the sauce will burn and have an undesirable flavor.

Serve with the remaining barbecue sauce for dipping.

Recipe courtesy Chef Dan Pettis, One 20 A Modern Bistro

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the good life Food + Travel + Hea lth + Home

eudaimonia*

The Little Shop with Big Charm

The first vacation house in Destin, built in the 1930s, is now home to Banana Bart’s, a tiny beatnik shop with an eclectic mix of funky jewelry, souvenir keepsakes and artisan wares — many collected during the global travels of the couple that owns the business.

Overlooking the Destin Harbor, this curious little shop has been owned and operated by Bart and Anne Coleman in this location since 1993, but the idea for the store dates back to 1985. The couple, who met while students at the University of Alabama, opened Banana Bart’s because there were few retail stores around in the 1980s when they began. “Highway 98 was a two-lane road with parallel parking back then,” says Bart.

After 27 years in operation as a true independent “mom-and-pop” shop, the Colemans say their dream of living at the beach is still a daily pleasure. “We like what we do, and we love dealing with happy people who are in a good mood because they are on vacation,” Anne says.

Delightfully eccentric — the original claw tub remains atop the black and white checkered bath tile and serves as a “den” for dozens of plush animals, while an old metal ice box displays magnets — the shop also is affordable, offering a price range to suit anyone’s budget. The trick is deciding what to buy. According to Anne, there are quite possibly “a gazillion” items to choose from. — Zandra Wolfgram

*happiness is ...

Photo by Scott Holstein

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habitat

Cashing in on the

Coupon Craze

a

Coupon experts share their secrets to saving big bucks

by Wendy O. Dixon

s she holds her beloved twoinch binder, hundreds of dollars worth of coupons neatly tucked within, Dana Manis boasts that her monthly grocery bill for her family of five is only $250.

Manis, a schoolteacher and expert couponer, shares her wisdom with shoppers eager to save more than a buck at the market.

She’s one of many instructors for Got Coupons? USA, an organization that teaches consumers how to save 50 to 90 percent on their grocery bills with coupons. The second purpose is to encourage educated couponers to support food shelters to help feed hungry people all over the United States.

“We’re not teaching people to hoard,” says Danielle Buenrostro, also a Got Coupons?

USA class instructor. “You may acquire extra things you don’t use but others do. So we give people a list of those organizations, whether it’s pet shelters or homeless shelters, that take donations. Don’t hoard (the products). Give them away, that’s what Got Coupons? USA’s motto is.”

Coupons have been around for more than 100 years, and while most consumers admit to using coupons at one time or another, that number is growing thanks to the everso-slow economic recovery.

According to the Annual Topline U.S. Consumer Packaged Goods Coupon Fact

Report for 2011, shoppers saved $4.6 billion with coupons in 2011 — $500 million more than previous years, a 12.2-percent increase.

The last three years represent the highest annual volumes of coupons distributed since the pre-recession period.

With more people having to cut way back on spending, many are going to extremes by spending up to 20 hours per week clipping coupons to help the family budget. There is a reason TLC’s “Extreme Couponing” resonates. With online and mobile coupons gaining popularity, people of all ages and in all income brackets are taking advantage of the savings. There are dozens of websites devoted to tips on clipping and saving. Locally, the Got Coupons? USA classes teach frugal consumers how to save big.

Some common excuses for not using coupons: • I don’t have time to clip coupons and don’t want to spend hours in the grocery store.

• It’s embarrassing to endure the sales clerk rolling his eyes while scanning dozens of coupons, not to mention my fellow shoppers in line behind me.

• I don’t have the storage space and would rather my home not look like a grocery store.

• I’ll end up buying stuff I wouldn’t purchase if I didn’t have the coupon, then never use it.

Coupon Lingo Stackable Coupons — when a manufacturer’s coupon can be used in tandem with a store coupon.

Blinkie — manufacturer coupons dispensed by coupon machines found in the grocery aisles next to products.

OYNO — On Your Next Order

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Source: thekrazycouponlady.com

Catalina — a coupon machine located at the register that dispenses receipt-like coupons for a future purchase.

MIR — Mail-in Rebate BOGO — Buy One Get One

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“I’ve heard them all,” Buenrostro says.

“There are coupons for just about anything, even gluten free and organic foods.

You can save 50 percent minimum using some strategies.”

All it takes to save hundreds of dollars a month is some research and a lot of organization, coupon experts say. So what’s the first step? Organize in one of three ways — with a binder, a file system or a combination of the two. Within the binder or the file, make categories based on the type of coupons you will use, with labels like “Health and Beauty,” “Dairy” and “Toiletries.”

“And organize it based on what works for you,” Manis explains, showing her binder with over a dozen categories and coupons tucked inside baseball card slots. “I tried doing it the way a coupon blogger suggested, but it didn’t work for me, so I found my method works with the way I shop.”

A binder with clear sleeves or pockets is great for those who want to quickly scan their coupons, Buenrostro explains. But a filing system with an accordion file could also work. “An accordion file lets you remove the Sunday flyer from the newspaper, date it and file it away, so you’re not clipping. You can then go to coupon bloggers as free resources to tell you when to go into that accordion file.”

Next, hunt for coupons. “The Sunday paper is your number one source for coupons,” Manis says. “You may want to get one subscription for each member of your family, and get it in even numbers because of the buy-one-get-one offers. I have a family of five, so I get six subscriptions. “It’s worth it just for the coupons.”

Great sources are also abundant online.

Websites including Coupons.com, TheKrazyCouponLady.com and BabySavers.com offer hundreds of coupons and tips. And check the websites of your favorite stores like Target, CVS, Walmart and Publix for store coupons as well.

Judy Lipham, who has been using cou-

Photo by Scott holstein

pons for years, enjoys shopping at Target for the savings. “I saved $70 with coupons,” she says of a recent shopping trip. “Plus I got a $5 gift card to use for a future purchase.”

Lipham also goes to Publix, which will accept Walmart and Target coupons. But that doesn’t necessarily apply for every Publix branch, Manis warns. “You should learn each store’s policy on coupons, because they vary from store to store.”

Once you’ve gotten a handful (or binderful) of coupons, learn when to use them from coupon blog websites, whose bloggers do a lot of the work for you by finding out when items are going on sale so you can match the coupon with them to maximize savings.

“They use software that does price analysis for us, and they provide information on every store you can imagine,” Buenrostro says, “even the commissary.”

Buenrostro recommends shopping based on what’s on sale in a specific week and learning to anticipate what you’ll need rather than making a hurried trip and spending too much money because of poor planning.

“There’s a sales cycle. Knowing when an item is in the cycle is the best time to stack coupons (use a store coupon along with a manufacturer’s coupon) so you’re getting it for even greater savings.

“The sales cycle for most items is every two to three months, so buy enough for what your family needs,” she adds. “The bloggers help me know when that time is. So I’m going to buy not one box of cereal but four boxes and store those boxes.”

Buenrostro has found the couponing strategy can be a means to an end to earn money (called an overage) when the value of the coupon exceeds value of the merchandise. “I may earn $2 for every purchase of things I don’t need and then donate them,” she says.

And don’t feel the need to use a coupon just because it’s about to expire, especially if you’re not going to use the product. Buenrostro, a military spouse, is especially fond of the Coups for Troops program, (CoupsForTroops.com). “We collect expired coupons and instead of tossing them we send them to military families overseas who are allowed to use expired coupons for up to six months past their expiration dates.”

And don’t trash the catalinas you typically get at the cash register. A catalina is a coupon machine at the register that dispenses coupons based on your buying habits. “They are typically high dollar coupons,” says Buenrostro. “Winn Dixie will have a catalina for $5 off a $55 purchase, which you can use toward produce. And take advantage of store loyalty cards. Some even have a fuel perks program where you can save on gas.”

Coupons can go beyond the grocery store, too.

Sites like ChaChingQueen.com and RetailMeNot.com offer coupons on a variety of brick and mortar and online stores including Kohl’s, Vera Bradley and jcp, as well as restaurants like Papa John’s.

But remember to make the coupon work for you, rather than becoming a slave to the coupon. “We teach you to use coupons the smart way,” Manis explains. “It’s only a deal if you need it, you’ll use it, you know someone who needs it or you know someone who will use it.” ec

Coupon Tip Resources ChaChingQueen.com RetailMeNot.com TheCouponGoddess.com CouponGeek.net TheFrugalGirls.com MoneySavingMom.com BabySavers.com TheKrazyCouponLady.com

Mobile Apps Coupons.com Couponmom.com Afullcup.com

Danielle Buenrostro, Got Coupons?

USA class instructor

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going places

gaming on get your

The Best Bets, Perks and Celebrity Dish of Three Drive-to Casinos

w

By Tracy Louthain

hile it’s impossible to predict the winning hand, this is an attempt to improve the odds of hitting the jackpot when it comes to a casino getaway. The Emerald Coast offers easy access to gaming in Alabama, Mississippi and Louisiana; however, deciding which casino to visit can be a daunting task. Location, amenities, experiences and types of games are considerations in the search for a winning weekend.

Wind Creek Casino (Entertaining Escape)

A short two-hour drive from Destin puts relaxation seekers in Atmore, Ala., where the 17-story Wind Creek Casino and Hotel rises from the ground like a monument. Opened in January 2009 on the Poarch Creek Indian reservation, Wind Creek Casino & Hotel is an oasis of relaxation, healthy living and entertainment. The 57,000 square-foot casino features 1,600 electronic games.

The large gaming floor allows smoking, and there is a small non-smoking room of electronic games near the elevators. Friendly waitresses come around to take drink orders while guests spin with the hopes of winning the next jackpot.

Hedge your bet with the Wind Creek “Escape” packages. Escape at Wind Creek is a worldclass facility boasting a spa, fitness center and culinary studio. The weekend “Escape” inspires a healthy lifestyle along with serenity, relaxation and wellness. A variety of packages and programs allow guests to mix and match services, ranging from spa treatments and yoga classes to hands-on cooking classes and private chef dining.

Wind Creek Casino

Wind Creek Casino Atmore, Alabama 1-866-WIND360 windcreekcasino.com

The Perk: Getting away from it all Best Bet: Culinary Classes Lodging rates starting at $109

Margaritaville Casino

Photos COURTESY Wind Creek Casino & Hotel

Biloxi, Mississippi 1-228-267-7777 margaritavillebiloxi.com/

The Perk: A chance encounter with Jimmy Buffet Best Bet: Live music each weekend at the Marina No lodging available

Harrah’s New Orleans New Orleans, Louisiana 1-504-533-6000 1-800-847-5299 harrahsneworleans.com

Culinary Studio

The Perk: Located in the heart of New Orleans near attractions, dining and nightlife Best Bet: Complimentary parking with 30 minutes of play Lodging rates starting at $129 weekday/$199 weekends

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The AAA Four Diamond hotel features 236 wellappointed rooms with ultra plush beds and fine linens. The 15th floor has been upgraded specifically for the Escape package and features spa-like decor, flooring and scents.

Beautiful earthen, stone tiles frame amenities within the spa, including a sauna, steam room and Jacuzzi.

The floating meditation deck outside serves as the serene location for wellness classes, including yoga and Pilates. The culinary studio, located adjacent to the spa, features six individual cooking stations with state-ofthe-art Wolf appliances. Each class features a highlyskilled chef instructor, custom menu and friendly mix of participants. Students pair up at each mini-kitchen for a hands-on lesson that teaches a variety of techniques.

“My goal is for you to learn something while you’re here,” said Master Chef Louis Chatham, who helped open the school. “I want the class to know why we do it one way. There are 100 ways to do something, and you can use the recipe as a roadmap to select your own path.”

The result is an evening of hands-on education, camaraderie, a three-course meal and libations. Themed classes range from Asian to Mediterranean to Middle Eastern to Turkish cuisine. Menus continuously change to feature new dishes and techniques. The property also features multiple restaurants, including Fire Steakhouse, Taste Buffet and the Grill, which are ready to satisfy any craving.

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Since its opening, Wind Creek has hosted live performances from a broad spectrum of musical talents.

Reba McEntire, Trace Adkins, Travis Tritt, Kool & the Gang, Huey Lewis & the News, ZZ Top, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Boyz II Men, Blake Shelton and the Commodores are among a long list who boast performances at the outdoor amphitheater.

Tribal traditions and hand-crafted items are subtly located throughout the resort. Near the elevators, a hand-made canoe by tribal member William “Bubba” Bailey showcases the tribe’s traditional mode of transportation. In the gift shop, tribal member Carolyn Parker Peterson’s hand-crafted woven baskets and jewelry are beautifully displayed next to a framed summary of her story and techniques.

Margaritaville Casino & Restaurant (Where Jimmy Buffet Rocks)

Calling all Parrot Heads! Jimmy Buffet’s Margaritaville Casino & Restaurant has brought the island vibe to gaming. The smallest casino in Mississippi, Margaritaville is not short on fun. Unlike most casinos, Margaritaville features floor-to-ceiling windows, welcoming natural light and scenic views of Biloxi’s Back Bay. The casino has table games and 820 slot machines.

Margaritaville appeals to slot players and boasts a $1,000 jackpot every 30 minutes. Coastal-themed games such as Big Fish Record, Goldfish, Mermaid’s

Photos COURTESY MArgaritaville Casino and Restaurant

going places

Margaritaville Casino

Gold and Turtle Treasure complement the tropical decor while cocktail waitresses happily serve boat drinks and signature margaritas. Three restaurants, including the Margaritaville Restaurant (similar to one at Pier Park), Feeding Frenzy Buffet and Landshark Landing keep gamers hydrated, nourished and entertained. Throughout the day volcano eruptions are followed by an attractive female staff member who slides into a giant margarita.

The 5 O’clock Somewhere bar offers bar-side electronic games, and the entertainment venue accommodates up to 900 guests for concerts and events.

When it’s time to cash in the chips, guests head outside to the marina for live music by a variety of local, regional and national acts every Thursday through Sunday. The expansive multi-level dining decks and marina make it an ideal place to come by boat, and complimentary boat parking is an added perk.

“One of the exciting parts of coming here is a chance sighting of Jimmy Buffet,” said Margaritaville Greeter Cody Wilson. “He has been known to come in unannounced and start playing slots in the corner or give an impromptu concert.”

Since Margaritaville does not include accommodations, there are ample nearby casinos to choose from for an overnight stay. The Grand Casino is close, as is The Beau Rivage Resort & Casino and Hard Rock Casino.

A 20-minute scenic drive along the coast to the Island View Casino Resort in Gulfport offers a comfortable and entertaining spot to rest up for round two.

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going places

Harrah's New Orleans

2012

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Photos COURTESY Harrah’s New Orleans

Harrah’s New Orleans (Big Easy, Big Fun)

For those who love gaming as much as they love the Big Easy, the place to be is Harrah’s New Orleans. Opened in 1999, Harrah’s New Orleans Casino features more than 2,100 of the hottest slots and more than 100 fast-paced table games, including blackjack, roulette, baccarat and more. Beyond the tables, Harrah’s features John Besh, an award-winning steakhouse that has received the James Beard Foundation award for Best Chef. The centerpiece of the casino is Masquerade, a hip club at night and quiet bar by day. The impressive 42-foot media tower is complemented by an Ice Bar at the base. A variety of musical entertainment is featured from DJs to jazz bands. The Theater at Harrah’s is a multi-million dollar venue hosting casino shows, including musical acts, comedy performances and special events.

“Harrah’s New Orleans is unique because it keeps the New Orleans theme alive,” said Harrah’s greeter Reuben Washington. “You have a chance to catch the mini-Mardi Gras parade with a jazz band playing the trumpet, tuba, drums; you feel the city.”

Opened in 2006, Harrah’s Hotel is located across Poydras Street from the casino and keeps gaming enthusiasts close to the action.

An underground walkway allows guests to avoid inclement weather.

The hotel features 450 generously sized rooms and infuses Mardi Gras colors into the upscale decor. Rooms include 24-hour inroom dining, refrigerator and coffee maker as welcome amenities, especially after a night on the town. Butler service is available for all suites. Harrah’s concierge team is full service with no request too big or small, from tickets and transportation to area attractions to replacing a bridesmaid dress.

Harrah’s is centrally located and within five blocks of many activities, restaurants and attractions. Nearby Iberville Street is loaded with dining options; Julia Street offers ghost tours; Royal Street is renowned for antiques. For breakfast, head one block north on Poydras to Mother’s, which opened in 1938 and boasts the “world’s best baked ham.” Harrah’s is also within walking distance of Bourbon Street, giving guests access to bars, live music and local restaurants such as Arnaud’s, which dates back to 1918 and is rich with ghost stories, celebrity sightings, culinary excellence and live jazz.

Across the street from Harrah’s, a street car stop ferries passengers up and down the rails from the Farmer’s Market to the north to the Audubon Zoo in the south. The Audubon Aquarium of the Americas is located directly across Canal Street from the casino and immerses visitors in an underwater world. Sharks, tarpon and rays are impressive in the 400,000 gallon Gulf of Mexico Exhibit, and interactive exhibits such as the sting ray touch tank and parakeet feeding area are fun for all ages.

A Harrah’s New Orleans Casino offers an active, exciting gaming getaway. Laissez les bon temps rouler! ec

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f.y.i

Fad or Fabulous?

The Ladies are Flocking to Create and Share Virtual Scrapbooks By Lauren Morgan

p

Pinterest 101 A glossary of terms and activities that will have you pinning in no time. » Pin: Any piece of media added

to Pinterest via upload or the “pin it” button. A good pin links back to its original source and has a description for a personal touch.

interest is social media’s newest sweetheart. The social network has skyrocketed onto center stage and has artfully attracted celebrities like the buttery Paula Deen, Yoko Ono, Martha Stewart, Ellen DeGeneres and Michael Kors. Oh, and there are more than 12 million users, the bulk of whom are active monthly.

Pinterested? This social network is designed like a social bulletin board. Users grab inspiring bits of media from the web and pin it to their page — creating a stunning virtual mosaic of everything you love.

Pinterest is a unique social network because it aims to connect the world through loves and likes. At Pinterest, the idea is that “a favorite book, toy or recipe can reveal a common link between two people.” The startup has come up from zero to hero, “with millions of new pins added every week.” According to ComScore, the Pinterest site reached 10 million unique visitors the quickest — beating out Facebook, Twitter and Google.

The high demand of Pinterest’s stellar visual experience has spawned an app, FriendSheet, which transforms your Facebook Timeline into a Pinterest Pinboard.

Pinterest has been used to plan weddings and parties, design houses and inspire wardrobes, but that’s all classic Pinterest; every day, users — and especially brands — are quickly coming up with interesting and engaging ways to use Pinterest.

Pinterest also is integrating with Vimeo and Netflix, so users will be seeing more Pinterest pages centered around video. Dollar General has a Pinterest devoted to easy meal videos hosted by the quirky, and virtually unknown, Chef Clay.

To pin or not to pin, that is the question ...

With Pinterest basking in the ultraviolet social media spotlight, a lot of people want to know whether it is worth their time or if it’s nothing more than a “phase.”

» Like a Pin: You can “Like”

things on Pinterest, and these are compiled in the “Likes” section of your profile.

» Repin: You can repin images

from Pinterest and incorporate them into your boards. These function a lot like retweets, reblogs and shares.

» Board: A collection of topical

pins that serves to organize and separate your pins via your specific interests.

» Following: You can follow all pins of a user or just follow the boards that interest you.

» Activity: A chronological feed

of your latest pins, repins, new boards and who you are following.

» Let People You Follow Add to Your Boards:

(1) Go to a board (2) click Edit at the top-right (3) choose from the settings “Just Me” and “Me + Contributors” (4) add the names of people you would like to contribute.

Photo by Saige Roberts (mixed drink)

» Show Your Pins on Facebook Timeline:

(1) Click your user name at the top-right (2) click Edit Profile (3) via the slider you can choose whether to add/remove Pinterest to your Facebook Timeline (4) don’t forget to Save Profile before you leave the page.

» Let People Know About a Pin: When pinning or Fans of Pinterest take time to snap and post pics of the people, places and things they find inspiring, creating a virtual scrapbook.

commenting you can add the @ symbol followed by the username (example: @LaurenM) to a user that you are following.

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Some social media “gurus” may be a little hasty in shooting down Pinterest as a fad because they are overlooking Pinterest’s secret weapon: women.

Women make up the majority of Pinterest’s user base — a whopping 90 percent. Women also make up the majority (55 percent) of Facebook’s users and, according to a Nielsen Social Media Report, females are the most active users on the Web, engaging in both social networks and blogs. Speaking of blogs, mommy bloggers rule the Internet, and they have brands in the palms of their hands. In other words, the ladies are essential to social media success.

There are social networks ruled by men. Maybe you’ve heard of Google’s social network Google+, which arrived on a silver platter, dolled-up in an evangelical hype as if it were the second coming of Facebook. But since its launch about a year ago, Google+ has declined steadily from a social network to a social wasteland, with a few good men carrying on.

Pinterest, on the other hand, is driving more referral traffic than Google+, LinkedIn and YouTube ... combined.

Girl power isn’t the only thing driving Pinterest past the fad marker.

In order to start “pinning” you have to create an account that integrates with Facebook or Twitter. So, rather than competing with these unstoppable social media hogs, Pinterest is simply riding in the sidecar to success.

Speaking of success, Ashley Harkins, owner of Design Avenue, has plans to “pin” her company on the Destin design map with Pinterest parties. Customers who attend can choose a preselected craft project taken from Pinterest. Harkins will provide all of the supplies, serve refreshments made from Pinterest recipes and hand out Design Avenue-branded giveaways. “Pinterest is definitely popular right now and has huge buzz,” Harkins says. “The type of women on it are my demographics for the store, so it’s a chance for me to get some exposure and get people into the store.”

The biggest challenge for Pinterest will be coercing a bunch of dudes into an overwhelming atmosphere of color palettes, table settings, kids’ craft projects and doors. Although the male user base is small, it is growing. If women aren’t enough to get boys moving, there are brands to follow as well. Guys are flocking to the pins of their favorite brands like Home Depot, The MLB (their best-known Pinterest is devoted to Majestic Mustaches) and Time magazine.

So, are you pinning yet? ec

PhotoS by Rhonda Chaloupka

Design Avenue in Destin hosted a Pinterest party in August. Guests gathered together to socialize over snacks while creating Chevron paintings — both the project and recipes chosen for the party were plucked from Pinterest.

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gardening

What Can A Tree Do For You? Properly Chosen and Sited, Trees Add Pleasure and Value to Your Home Q: What are the best trees to plant in the home landscape?

We recently bought a newly constructed house on a large lot in an upscale subdivision, but it’s pretty wide open with just a couple of pine trees. Also, are there any tips on how to plant a tree?

Good for you! Trees enhance property both aesthetically and financially, so they’re a smart addition to your yard.

Proper planning and planting will give you years to enjoy your trees and help you avoid problems that can cost additional time, labor and money. They can also help reduce your energy bill. In the South, trees planted on the west and northwest sides of houses have the most impact on your energy consumption.

First, you need to check to make sure there aren’t any restrictive covenants on your property or in your neighborhood that would limit your choices. Those should have been spelled out when you closed on your home purchase, but check your paperwork.

The next step is to figure out why you want trees. Seriously. Most people have a function in mind when they want to add trees to their yard, and the best trees for them are the ones that fulfill that function. Do you want shade for the house? Would you like a privacy screen from the neighbors’ view? Do you want to provide a haven for wildlife? Do you envision trees that bear fruit as well as provide visual interest? Once you know why you want trees, and you’re not limited to just one answer, you’re better prepared to select and site your trees.

If you want a screen, you’ll probably want evergreen trees. While some people like the look of a double row of the same kind of tree, you’re better off planting a variety of trees within your screen. If a tree is hit with a disease and you have all the same kind of trees grouped together, the likelihood of that disease spreading is high. If you mix things up, you’ll get a mix of disease resistance and that will help contain any problems. Plus, a mixed screen is visually interesting.

Do you want to shade your family room in summer but let in the light and warmth in winter? Then you want a deciduous tree, or one that sheds its leaves. But you need to make sure you plant that tree far enough from the house and nearby power lines that it has room to reach its full height and width. Otherwise, you’ll be sawing off limbs to keep the tree in its place, ruining the look of the tree and your serenity. The “right plant, right place” axiom of gardening applies especially to trees. If you plant a tree in the wrong place, it likely won’t thrive and could eventually have to be removed. Place trees well away from paved areas such as driveways, sidewalks and patios. Tree roots will extend well past the tree canopy, so make sure those roots have enough room to support the tree.

When you plant your tree, make sure you don’t plant it too deeply.

Dig the hole twice as wide as the root-ball and almost as deep. Set

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the tree in the planting hole so that it’s just a bit higher than the surrounding soil. It will settle. Create a basin around it to hold water so it can soak directly into the root zone. You’re going to have to water it regularly to get it established. That means every day for at least two or three months, maybe longer, and two or three times a week for the rest of the first year. Also, you need to make sure that the soil around the root ball is loose and crumbly, so oxygen can get to the roots through the tiny air pockets in the soil.

“Water and oxygen are the two major limiting factors,” said Stan Rosenthal, Leon County forester. “You have to water that root-ball regularly so it can do enough photosynthesis to feed itself. And for the tree’s root system to use the energy produced by photosynthesis, it has to be able to carry on respiration, which requires oxygen.”

I recommend starting with native trees, because they’re proven to succeed in our climate if properly sited and planted. Some of the most popular small trees that are either native or have acclimated to North Florida are redbud (Cercis canadensis), Southern wax myrtle (Myrica cerifera) and Yaupon holly (Ilex vomitoria). Dogwood (Cornus Florida) does well as an understory tree, meaning it should be planted in the shade of a larger tree. There are new varieties of dogwood that have been developed by the University of Florida that can tolerate our extremes of heat and humidity.

For large trees, take a look at American holly (Ilex opaca), Bald cypress (Taxodium distichum), live oak (Quercus virginiana), Shumard oak (Quercus shumardii), river birch (Betula nigra), red maple (Acer rubrum), tulip tree, also known as yellow poplar (Liriodendron tulipifera) and Southern magnolia (Magnolia grandiflora). ec

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flavor

debunk the junk 10 Food and Nutrition Myths Demystified

By Janice Wade-Miller

Consumers are bombarded by claims about food during the course of our lives — but nutrition misinformation confuses and frustrates all of us in our pursuit of a healthier lifestyle.

Some myths will be disproved and discarded along the way, but others remain as persistent as a nasty bill collector. Still more myths will surface over time, spreading faster and farther through smart phones, social networks and mass advertising. They affect what food we buy, how we cook and even when we eat. So now is a good time to debunk some of the junk.

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Which of these 10 food myths have caught your attention?

“Calories eaten at night are more fattening.”

Whether calories are consumed during “Good Morning America” or “The Letterman Show” doesn’t matter because no connection exists between caloric intake and the clock. It’s the quantity of calories and the level of physical activity during a 24-hour period that determines whether weight is gained, lost or maintained. A late-night snack is fine as long as healthy foods are chosen and a healthy weight is maintained.

The bottom line is, if more calories are eaten than our bodies need for fuel each day, those extra calories will be stored as fat.

ILLUSTRATIONS BY LAURA PATRICK

“All fats are bad.”

The fact is fats are an essential nutrient, just like carbohydrates and protein. Fats help our body absorb vitamins and minerals, assist with nerve transmission and maintain cell membrane strength. But when fats are consumed in excessive amounts, they contribute to weight gain, heart disease and certain types of cancers.

Fats are not created equal. Some are beneficial and others can cause longterm health problems. The goal is to reduce the consumption of saturated fat found in animal sources like red meat, poultry and full-fat dairy products, and increase monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats like those found in vegetable oils such as olive, corn and peanut oil. A rule of thumb to follow: Saturated bad fats are usually solid, and the unsaturated good fats are liquid at room temperature.

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flavor “Low-fat means low in calories.”

This myth can be a bit tricky. Low-fat foods, especially those marketed as fat-free, may have the same number of calories as the regular version of that same product. Fat adds flavor. When a food manufacturer removes fat from a product, it often adds sugar (and salt) to make it taste better. The extra sugar increases calories, sometimes offsetting the calories removed from fat.

Whenever the word “low” appears on the package, it’s a clue to look more closely at the Nutrition Facts label. The bottom line is that lowfat or fat-free foods don’t give us license to eat all we want, because the extra sugar can add up to more calories than we might expect.

“Sugar causes diabetes.”

It is true that diabetes is related to high blood sugar levels, but eating sweets or high-sugar foods does not cause diabetes.

This is an important distinction.

Sugar and carbohydrates are closely linked in the body.

Carbohydrates get broken down to their simple form, glucose, by stomach acid.

Think of it this way: Glucose acts like gasoline in a car engine. To get the energy we need to survive, our body converts some of the food we eat into sugars, also known as glucose. As blood sugar (glucose) levels rise, our pancreas creates a hormone called insulin. Insulin acts like a key, opening the “gas cap” in every cell wall to allow the cell to absorb that glucose and use it for fuel. But people with diabetes don’t produce enough insulin, or the body has become resistant to it. As a result, the cell gas cap stays locked and the glucose remains in the blood. Too much glucose in the blood damages organs and starves cells of their fuel.

Diabetes develops as a result of overweight, a combination of genes with diabetic tendencies, inactivity and a diet too high in calories. So, while sugar does not cause diabetes, blood sugar levels do need to be

managed carefully as part of a well thought out meal plan when diabetes does appear. In truth, a meal plan for a diabetic is not much different from the meal plan that non-diabetics should be eating to remain healthy. The important difference for a diabetic meal plan is to take care not to eat too many carbohydrates at one sitting. This prevents blood sugar levels from rising to an organ-damaging level.

“Using honey is healthier than refined sugar.”

Actually, our bodies can’t tell the difference whether we squirt from the honey bottle or scoop from a sugar bowl.

Honey, refined sugar and even high fructose corn syrup get broken down into glucose and fructose in our stomachs.

Honey is a little sweeter than refined sugar so people may use less of it and, as a result, consume fewer calories. This may be where the myth got started. Raw sugar, brown sugar, cane sugar, beet sugar, corn syrup, dextrose, invert sugar, turbinado sugar, etc., are basically the same.

“Brown eggs are more nutritious than white eggs.”

Eggshell color can vary from white to cream to brown, but the color has nothing to do with the quality, flavor, nutritive value or cooking characteristics of an egg. The color depends only on the breed of the hen. According to the Egg Nutrition Council, “White-shelled eggs are produced by hens with white feathers and white ear lobes and brown-shelled eggs are produced by hens with red feathers and red ear lobes. There is no difference in taste or nutritional content between white- and brown-colored eggs.”

“Eating eggs raises your cholesterol.”

This myth got started because an egg yolk has the most concentrated amount of cholesterol of any food. New research from the U.S. Department of Agriculture shows that

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eggs contain a lot less cholesterol than they did a decade ago. Today’s egg has about 185 milligrams (mg) cholesterol, down from 213 mg.

Numerous other studies have proven that eggs are one of the most nutrient-dense foods available.

Overall, the average American consumes about 317 mg of cholesterol per day from all food sources, a bit higher than the American Heart Association’s daily recommendation of fewer than 300 mg. The goal is to monitor the overall intake of cholesterol, not to eliminate eggs from your diet if you enjoy eating them.

“Multigrain breads are whole grain breads.”

No, the terms are not synomymous — even though some food manufacturers might like you to believe otherwise.

All grains start out as whole grains. If, after milling, they still contain all three parts of the original grain — the starchy endosperm, the fiber-rich bran and the germ — in their original proportions, they still qualify as whole grains. The food industry’s term “made with whole grain” can actually mean it contains very little. In fact, a multi-grain bread may have as little as 5 percent whole grains by weight, with the rest being refined grain.

The only way to know for sure if you are eating whole grain is when the word “whole” leads the ingredient list in front of every grain mentioned.

If bread, rolls or pasta say “multigrain, made with whole grains” or even “7-grain” in big letters on the front, do not assume the food contains only whole grain flour.

“The browner the food, the more whole grains it contains.”

Actually, brown dyes and additives can give foods the deceiving appearance of whole grain. Common color additives, such as molasses or caramel, can make a product appear healthier to the shopper! Some whole-grain foods are actually light in color. Cheerios is a good example.

“Fresh vegetables are more nutritious than frozen.”

To be perfectly honest, just-picked vegetables and fruits do provide more vitamins and minerals — if you are lucky enough to get just-picked produce. The problem is that fresh produce starts losing its nutrients within hours of picking. It is not unusual for produce to take a full week or longer to arrive on a store’s shelves. The beauty of frozen vegetables and fruits is that they are flash frozen immediately after picking in order to preserve the nutrients. With bagged frozen fruits and vegetables you can easily remove just the amount you need and store the remainder in the freezer for another meal.

Have you found that what you thought you knew about food and nutrition might need some tweaking? If so, join the crowd. Misperceptions abound in the field of nutrition.

As a nutrition educator, I have to continually update my own knowledge about what is true and what is not.

Look a little deeper and do some research when learning a new fact about food or nutrition, and you’ll be well on your way to becoming a more informed consumer.

Janice Wade-Miller has a master’s degree in food and nutrition from Florida State University. In her role as a health educator, she has worked with all age groups, from young children to senior citizens. She can be reached at jan3mail@aol.com.

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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

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dining The Key

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

Best of the Emerald Coast 2012 Winner Breakfast Lunch Dinner Outdoor Dining Live Music

$ Inexpensive $$ Moderately Expensive $$$ Expensive

Cabana Café American. This eatery, boasting specialty coffee and ice cream, was voted Best New Business in 2008.

Open daily 11 a.m.–2 a.m. 112 Seascape Blvd., 850-424-3574. $ B l d Callahan’s Restaurant & Deli ★ American. Voted Best Locally Owned Restaurant 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

Alys Beach

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

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

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

Blue Mountain Beach

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

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

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

Harbor Docks ★ American. This surf-and-turf restaurant offers breakfast, lunch and dinner. Open daily 5 a.m.– 11 p.m. 538 E. Hwy. 98, 850-837-2506. $$ B l d Hard Rock Café American. Rock ’n’ roll, great drinks and mouthwatering menu. Open daily 11 a.m. 4260 Legendary Dr., Destin Commons, 850-654-3310. $ l d HARRY T’S ★ Seafood. Lounge on the beautiful patio and watch the passing boats as you enjoy an endless variety of delicious dishes. Mon–Thu 11 a.m.–10 p.m. Fri–Sat 11 a.m.–11 p.m. Sun 10 a.m.–10 p.m. 46 Harbor Blvd., 850-654-4800. $$ B l d Jim ’N Nick’s Bar-B-Q ★ Barbecue. Southern smokehouse barbecue. Beer and wine. Open daily 11 a.m. 14073 Emerald Coast Pkwy., 850-351-1991. $ l d Johnny O’Quigley’s ★ American. Award-winning steak, seafood and barbecue in one of Destin’s favorite sports bars. Mon– Thu 11 a.m.–midnight. Fri–Sun 11 a.m.–1 a.m. Double Happy Hour Mon–Fri 3–6 p.m. and 10 p.m.–close.

34940 Emerald Coast Pkwy., 850-837-1015. $ l d Louisiana Lagniappe ★ Cajun and Seafood. View the Old Pass Lagoon while dining on steaks and a wide variety of fresh seafood. Open daily 5–10 p.m. 775 Gulf Shores Dr., 850-837-0881. $$ d Marina Café American. Gourmet pizzas, Creole and American cuisine. Open daily 5–10 p.m. 404 E. Hwy. 98, 850-837-7960. $$ d 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

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

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

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. $$ d Graffiti Italian. Traditional Italian favorites and house specialties like seafood pizza. Sun–Thu 5–9 p.m. Fri– Sat 5–10 p.m. 707 E. Hwy. 98, 850-654-2764. $$ d

Pepito’s ★ Mexican. Voted Best Mexican on the Emerald Coast, locals love Pepito’s for its authentic Mexican cuisine and mouthwatering margaritas. Happy Hour specials all day Mondays, including small rocks margaritas and all beer and well drinks for $1.99. Open daily 11 a.m.–10 p.m. 757 E. Hwy. 98, 850-650-7734. $$ l d Poppy’s Crazy Lobster Seafood. Relax with us on the beautiful Destin Harbor and enjoy the best seafood in town. Toast the setting sun with a Crazy Lobster Cooler or any number of fun cocktails. Open daily at 11 a.m. HarborWalk Village, 850-424-6744. l d

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on the menu

Cheese Biscuits

A

utumn is the best time of the year for dining out in Northwest Florida. With cooler weather, no waiting and many restaurants offering locals specials, you’ll fall in love all over again with the Emerald Coast culinary scene.

Breakfast

Harbor Docks, Destin

Go bohemian or go home! Breakfast at Harbor Docks will make any day feel like it has endless possibilities. We love The Hippie, a breakfast sandwich of scrambled eggs, tomato, avocado and alfalfa sprouts on wheat toast. Caution: This aptly named sandwich, combined with the mesmerizing view of the Destin Harbor, may make you feel laid back and lazy for the rest of the day. $7

Snack

Jim ‘N’ Nick’s, Destin

There are more than a handful of reasons to dine at Jim ‘N’ Nick’s, but our favorites come served in a basket with a side of creamy butter ... complimentary no less. Yes, this restaurant has garnered the Best Barbecue crown fromp EC Magazine readers for many years running, but could it be that the cheese biscuits are really boss to the sauce?

To be sure, we’ll continue to eat heaps. And if, like us, you can’t eat just one, take home a sack of the pre-mixed stash and make them yourself.

Please pass the butter!

2012

Lunch

Fresh Greece, Niceville

Dinner

Marie’s Bistro, Blue Mountain Beach

Though Marie’s original theme song is a tasty tune, it can’t compete with most everything on the eclectic, made-to-order menu. We had the shrimp and crawfish bowtie pasta special served in a buttery white wine cream sauce which was as melt-in-your-mouth delicious as the scenic view on 30A. Be prepared to linger to enjoy the laid-back atmosphere, live music (on weekends) and friendly staff, because they certainly are in no hurry to rush you out. (To sample the catchy theme song, go to mariesbistro.com.) $15 112 October–November 2012

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Photo Courtesy Gina Yra

Greece’s economy may be headed south, but if you head north to the North Light Marine you can savor the best gyro sandwich we’ve tasted in a while at Fresh Greece. This little eatery stuffs a fresh pita with gyro meat, yogurt dressing, lettuce, onion and tomato and a side of fries. It’s a hot mess, just like the economy, but it tastes delicious and you don’t need euros or drachmas to buy it! $5.79

dining Regatta Bay Golf and Country Club American. Located inside Regatta Bay Golf & Country Club. Open to the public 11 a.m.–2 p.m. Variety of salads and sandwiches. Full bar. Specializing in on- and off-site catering including weddings, receptions and special events.

465 Regatta Bay Blvd., 850-337-8888. $ B l d Ruth’s Chris Steak House Steak and Seafood. New Orleans-inspired appetizers, desserts and awardwinning 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. 850-243-0707. $$ B l d Fudpucker’s American. Burgers, sandwiches and specialties like the Fried Fudpucker (triggerfish). Open daily 11 a.m. 108 Santa Rosa Blvd., Okaloosa Island, 850-243-3800. $$ l d 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 EmeraldCoastMagazine.com October–November 2012

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

Grayton Beach

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

Weekdays 5–10 p.m. Weekends 5–11 p.m. 63 DeFuniak St., 850-231-4102. $$ d Picolo’s restaurant Seafood. Dine on delicious fresh seafood while listening to live music. Open daily 11 a.m.–3 p.m. and 5–10 p.m. 70 Hotz Ave., 850-231-1008. $$ 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

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 114 October–November 2012

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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 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. $$ d Lillie’s On Pigs Alley Barbecue. For lip-smacking good barbecue, try Lillie’s sandwiches, ribs, beef or chicken. The restaurant won the Barbecue World Championship in Memphis in 2007. Open Tue–Sat 11 a.m.–7 p.m. 9848 W. Hwy. 98, 850-654-3911. $ l d Lin’s Asian Cuisine Asian. Chef Qun Lin whips up steaming portions of your favorite Chinese and Southeast Asian dishes. Open Mon–Thu 10:30 a.m.–9 p.m. Fri–Sat 10:30 a.m.– 9:30 p.m. Sun noon–9 p.m. 130 Scenic Gulf Dr., Suite 5B, 850-424-5888. $ l d Marina Bar and Grill American. Seafood, po-boys, burgers, salads overlooking the Baytowne Marina and Choctawhatchee Bay. You catch 'em we cook 'em service. Open daily 11 a.m.– 7 p.m. Breakfast Sat–Sun 8–11 a.m. Kitchen closed Mon–Tue. Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort, 9300 Emerald Coast Pkwy. West., 850-267-7778. $ B l d Marlin Grill ★ Steak and Seafood. Fresh seafood, steaks, salads and appetizers served inside or outside. Open nightly at 5 p.m. Village of Baytowne Wharf, 850-351-1990. $$$ l d The Melting Pot Fondue. Dip into something different and enjoy an interactive, hands-on, fourcourse 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. $$$ d Mitchell’s Fish Market Seafood. Chef-driven dishes such as Cedar Roasted Atlantic Salmon or HoisinGlazed Yellow Fin Tuna. Lunch Mon–Sat 11 a.m.–4 p.m. Sun 11 a.m.–3 p.m. Dinner Mon–Thu 4–10 p.m. Fri–Sat 4–11 p.m. Sun 3–9 p.m. Grand Boulevard Sandestin, 850-650-2484. $$ l d P.F. Chang’s China Bistro ★ Asian. Sample crunchy lettuce wraps or Chinese favorites like Kung Pao Chicken in a chic atmosphere. Open Sun–Thu 11 a.m.–10 p.m. Fri–Sat 11 a.m.–11 p.m. 10640 Grand Blvd., 850-269-1806. $$ l d Poppy’s Seafood Factory Seafood. Enjoy fresh seafood, steak and poultry dishes with a view of the bay.

Open 11 a.m.–9 p.m. daily. Village of Baytowne Wharf, 850-351-1996. $$$ l d Royal Orchid ★ Thai. Escape to Thailand at this authentic Thai restaurant. Sink into a traditional sunken table surrounded by pillows or dine American style at a table or booth.

Thu–Tue 11 a.m.–9:30 p.m. Closed Wed. 11275 Emerald Coast Pkwy., 850-650-2555. $$ l d Rum Runners American. Caribbean/coastal/Mediterranean menu with sandwiches, seafood, steaks, chicken and pasta. Open daily for lunch and dinner.

Village of Baytowne Wharf, 850-267-8117. $$ l d Seagar’s Prime Steaks and Seafood ★ Steak and Seafood. Premium steak, fresh seafood and caviar. Open 6 p.m. daily. Hilton Sandestin. 4000 S. Sandestin Blvd., 850-622-1500. $$$ d Tommy Bahama’s Restaurant & Bar ★ Caribbean. Get a taste of the islands with jerk spices, fresh fish and the best desserts EmeraldCoastMagazine.com October–November 2012

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Coastal Cuisine with a New Orleans flair

2012

The Village of Baytowne Wharf™ AWARD OF EXCELLENCE Wine Spectator BEST OF THE EMERALD COAST Emerald Coast Magazine RESTAURANT OF THE YEAR NWFL Daily News

850-622-0760

| bistrobijouxdestin.com

2012

BEST HIBACHI

18 Hibachi Tables Sushi Bar • Private Dining Sushi Take Out Authentic Japanese Cuisine 850.351.1006 Located in the Village of Baytowne Wharf ™ 116 October–November 2012

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JAPANESE STEAKHOUSE & SUSHI BAR

850.650.4688 or 850.650.4689 34745 Emerald Coast Parkway / Destin

dining 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 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. $ld 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 EmeraldCoastMagazine.com October–November 2012

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a taste for ...

Dedicated to bringing you a delicious experience!

Italian cuisine with a family-friendly atmosphere - we offer wings, salads, panini, and gourmet pizzas topped with the freshest ingredients. We happily host or cater any event or private party. Join us on our covered balcony (across from Ed Walline Park in Gulf Place) for our happy hour Mon-Fri 4-7 and FOOTBALL SPECIALS on weekends!

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

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

118 October–November 2012

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Healing Herbs & Spices Chef Rebecca Katz, author of “The Cancer Fighting Kitchen: Nourishing, Big Flavor Recipes for Cancer Treatment and Recovery,” says that nothing increases the “yum factor of food” better than herbs and spices.

Everyone knows that herbs and spices kick up flavor in any dish, but you may not realize that some of them also have powerful healing properties. Inflammation — the body’s natural ability to fight an injury — is thought to play a role in many diseases, including cancer.

Studies show that turmeric, basil, rosemary, cloves, ginger and fennel help to regulate cellular inflammation. Other tasty spices work hard for your body, too. Cinnamon not only improves memory but also helps to stabilize blood sugar levels.

Cumin is good for stimulating an appetite and the herb cilantro relieves nausea and anxiety.

To maximize the “healing powers” of dried herbs, take a tip from Katz and add them to your recipe at the beginning. The heat combined with fat, like olive oil, helps to release the herb’s oils that deliver not only flavor but also healing benefits. Fresh herbs, on the other hand, should be sprinkled in at the end of the recipe to yield the most health benefits.

Stock up on these 20 ingredients, and your spice rack will surely pack a healthy punch: allspice, anise, basil, cayenne, cilantro, chives, coriander, cinnamon, cloves, cumin, garlic, mint, nutmeg, oregano, parsley, saffron, sage, black pepper, sea salt and turmeric. — Zandra Wolfgram

dining

2012

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. $$ l d Vue on 30a American. Seafood, beef, poultry, lamb, veal, pastas, soups and bisques. Open Tues–Fri 11 a.m.– 2:30 p.m., Wed–Sat 5–9 p.m. 4801 W. Hwy. 30A, 850-267-2305. $$ 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. $$ l d Angelina’s Pizza & Pasta Italian. Authentic homemade pizza pie and Italian dishes in a casual atmosphere. Lunch and dinner daily: 11 a.m.–9:30 p.m. 4005 E. Hwy. 30A, 850-231-2500. $ld Bud & Alley’s Restaurant American. Serving fresh seafood, steak and vegetarian options. Open 11:30 a.m. Mon–Fri. Roof bar open 11:30 p.m.–2 a.m. in summer. 2236 E. Hwy. 30A, 850-231-5900. $$$ 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 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 October–November 2012

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Your Choice for Comprehensive Cancer Care

Warren R. Amos, M.D. Radiation Oncology

James H. Stevens, M.D. Radiation Oncology

David Mann, M.D. Medical Oncology

Robert Long, M.D. Urology

Basil Fossum, M.D. Urology

Thomas Zachos, M.D. Urology

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

(850) 863-5294

(850) 622-3308

(850) 622-3308

(850) 863-3377

(850) 226-6572

(850) 682-6333

For more information, visit our website: www.21stCenturyOncology.com

Join WSRE for the ultimate fan experience! The evening will feature gourmet delights from your favorite local chefs, top wines and — new for this year — craft spirits and craft beers. Don’t wait until the bottom of the 9th to get your tickets!

Sunday, October 21, 2012 — 5 p.m.

Pensacola Civic Center Reserve Your Tickets Now! — $40 per person More info at wsre.org/GrandSlam

Viewer Supported, PBS for the Gulf Coast All proceeds benefit the mission of WSRE, PBS for the Gulf Coast.

Sponsored by

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EmeraldCoastMagazine.com

Continued from Page 122

Beauty is Only Skin Deep Thank goodness our inner beauty is deeper than our derma. Despite trying every cream and ointment suggested, radiation was tougher on my skin than I expected it to be. Don’t be afraid to request pain medication and a sleep aid if you need it. I listened to music on headphones during treatment and tried to visualize a positive result. Like a butterfly, think about being completely transformed once you’re in your brand new skin.

Hold the Lettuce If you are kind enough to provide a meal for a breast cancer patient, be mindful of the foods they may not be able to eat while in chemotherapy treatment and experiencing a compromised immune system.

Fresh fruits that cannot be peeled and salad lettuce are healthy but not a good idea, since these foods cannot be thoroughly washed. A high-calorie casserole may sound comforting, but may not be a great option for a patient already battling unwanted weight gain. Sugary treats are also a no-no, as certain breast cancers feed on sugar. Dishes high in protein and low in fat are always a good, healthy choice (baked fish or chicken and steamed broccoli for example). A cancer patient in chemotherapy needs 50 to 70 percent more protein each day than they usually do. So, ask for special orders before you deliver. If nothing else, you can’t go wrong with homemade chicken soup. Thanks Olivia!

Hope Heals Words can be healing, but they also can cause undue hurt. Patients aren’t seeking pity or wanting to review their medical history, they want to move forward. When talking to a cancer patient, choose your words wisely. Don’t ask invasive personal questions unless they initiate it. One question that shows you care is: How can I help you?

Friends old and new and complete strangers gave me inspiration and encouragement. That gave me hope. People say that it takes courage to face cancer, and you have to be strong. I didn’t need to find strength.

HOW YOU CAN I had that. I needed to give myself HELP CURE CANCER permission to be weak. I felt vulnerOnly 30 percent of people able, and that was a humbling experidiagnosed with breast cancer ence. Cancer is a lesson in humility. have a known risk. Dr. Susan Some people wonder “why me?”

Love Research Foundation when something challenging haphas launched The Health of Women, the first online pens. I say “why not me?” If I am breast cancer study aimed strong enough to endure this, statisto gain insight into what tically speaking that means someone increases breast cancer risks. else will not have to. Sure, getting Women and men with or without breast cancer can cancer can be seen as being handed confidentially report their a raw deal. But in life, you can only health information, creating play the hand you’re dealt. And mine what the foundation hopes is still feels like a winner. Here’s hoping the largest pool of data ever collected. To participate, visit the deck of life is stacked in your fahealthofwomenstudy.com. vor. Poker anyone? I’m feeling lucky!

Having cancer is personal, but it’s certainly not an individual experience.

I received exceptional care at Sacred Heart Hospital on the Emerald Coast, Angel Williamson and 21st Century Oncology. And beyond my circle of friends and family, I received amazing support from the Rowland Publishing Inc. staff, the EC sales team in particular and many longtime EC magazine advertisers. Most of our freelance writers and photographers were not aware of my health issue, and that was intentional on my part. To all of you who lent your time and talents to the past few issues, a heartfelt thank you for helping me meet my personal goal of not missing a beat (or a deadline!).

You all continue to make me look much better than I am. And to our loyal readers, thank you for giving us all a creative purpose. ec EmeraldCoastMagazine.com October–November 2012

121

How to Play Along When Dealt the Cancer Card

By Zandra Wolfgram

l

ife is full of irony. As a writer, you get to live through the experiences of others. When I met Billie Chapell to share her breast cancer journey in last year’s October/November issue of EC magazine, I couldn’t have known that she would prepare me for the cards of fate I would be dealt just days later.

Though I hadn’t had an illness of any kind in my 45 years, I was suspicious something wasn’t quite right. An ultrasound confirmed what a routine mammogram suggested — there were a few suspicious areas on my left breast. After a biopsy, MRI and PET/CT, I was officially diagnosed with breast cancer.

I am not a doctor; and I am not pretending to offer medical counsel. But with October being Breast Cancer Awareness Month, I’m simply sharing some of my personal experience with this disease. If you consider my advice before your doctor’s, you have bigger things to worry about than surviving breast cancer. But if sharing my thoughts gives the slightest comfort to anyone touched by it, then I am glad for it.

First Things First: YOU! I brought a notebook with me to my doctor visits, asked a million questions, took notes and, in the end, followed the treatment plan as prescribed. Though it wasn’t easy to subject my body to a battery of tests, surgery, six rounds of three types of lethal intravenous chemicals, tattoo markers, 33 sessions of radiation followed by still more pharmaceuticals, it was what I chose to do. Your body, diagnosis and treatment plan is unique to you. Though you have to be your own advocate and educate yourself on your disease, avoid advice from the Internet, shut out everyone else’s suggestions and do what feels right for you.

Finally, a chance to be totally selfish without any judgment, guilt or cash register receipts! It is difficult for most women, mothers in particular, to make themselves a priority and let others care for them. Try to suck up your pride, check your nurturing nature and let others do things for you. It gives them an occupation that allows them to participate in your healing process, so in that way, you are helping them.

Don’t Bat an Eye It’s easy to get ahead of yourself emotionally. I thought having a mastectomy would be the most devastating part of having breast cancer. It wasn’t. I said goodbye to my left boob by shaking my stuff one last time at a disco party with some gal pals. After my surgery in November, I was so happy the cancer was removed I was all smiles from ear to ear. I realized I needed to try not to worry or anticipate how I would feel and instead just try to be in the moment with each experience as it happened and honor my true emotions whatever they may be.

So then I thought losing my golden mane of wavy hair as a side effect to chemotherapy would be the most devastating part of having breast cancer. It wasn’t. Like clockwork, 21 days after starting chemotherapy my hair started to fall out and my scalp was super sore (like having 100 ponytails in your hair for a week). Though my hairstylist was on standby to come to my house and to cut my hair when I gave the signal (thanks Genevieve!), I begged my husband to cut my hair off with an electric razor. He was shaken up, but my head felt a hundred times better. How ironic that it was Dec. 21, the shortest day of the year.

I was the envy of the chemo room to have full eyebrows and long lush eyelashes going into my sixth and final chemo treatment on my husband’s birthday in March. Three weeks later, when I thought I was in the clear, my face began to disappear. As my brows grew fainter, I felt my identity fading a little each day. I counted my lashes daily and winced as they dwindled to eight, then six and four, until just a single brave lash winked back at me. I looked in the mirror and wondered: ‘Who is this person staring back at me?’ And, I thought: ‘This is it. This is the hardest part. Losing these tiny hairs that frame up your face … and feeling invisible.’

I have come to realize that the image we portray to the world is a complex arrangement that we don’t typically see deconstructed. Cancer “calls” you out on your sense of identity, which I found personally revealing, but also disarming.

Continued on page 121

122 October–November 2012

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com

Photos courtesy Zandra Wolfgram

the last word

How to Play Along When Dealt the Cancer Card

By Zandra Wolfgram

l

ife is full of irony. As a writer, you get to live through the experiences of others. When I met Billie Chapell to share her breast cancer journey in last year’s October/November issue of EC magazine, I couldn’t have known that she would prepare me for the cards of fate I would be dealt just days later.

Though I hadn’t had an illness of any kind in my 45 years, I was suspicious something wasn’t quite right. An ultrasound confirmed what a routine mammogram suggested — there were a few suspicious areas on my left breast. After a biopsy, MRI and PET/CT, I was officially diagnosed with breast cancer.

I am not a doctor; and I am not pretending to offer medical counsel. But with October being Breast Cancer Awareness Month, I’m simply sharing some of my personal experience with this disease. If you consider my advice before your doctor’s, you have bigger things to worry about than surviving breast cancer. But if sharing my thoughts gives the slightest comfort to anyone touched by it, then I am glad for it.

First Things First: YOU! I brought a notebook with me to my doctor visits, asked a million questions, took notes and, in the end, followed the treatment plan as prescribed. Though it wasn’t easy to subject my body to a battery of tests, surgery, six rounds of three types of lethal intravenous chemicals, tattoo markers, 33 sessions of radiation followed by still more pharmaceuticals, it was what I chose to do. Your body, diagnosis and treatment plan is unique to you. Though you have to be your own advocate and educate yourself on your disease, avoid advice from the Internet, shut out everyone else’s suggestions and do what feels right for you.

Finally, a chance to be totally selfish without any judgment, guilt or cash register receipts! It is difficult for most women, mothers in particular, to make themselves a priority and let others care for them. Try to suck up your pride, check your nurturing nature and let others do things for you. It gives them an occupation that allows them to participate in your healing process, so in that way, you are helping them.

Don’t Bat an Eye It’s easy to get ahead of yourself emotionally. I thought having a mastectomy would be the most devastating part of having breast cancer. It wasn’t. I said goodbye to my left boob by shaking my stuff one last time at a disco party with some gal pals. After my surgery in November, I was so happy the cancer was removed I was all smiles from ear to ear. I realized I needed to try not to worry or anticipate how I would feel and instead just try to be in the moment with each experience as it happened and honor my true emotions whatever they may be.

So then I thought losing my golden mane of wavy hair as a side effect to chemotherapy would be the most devastating part of having breast cancer. It wasn’t. Like clockwork, 21 days after starting chemotherapy my hair started to fall out and my scalp was super sore (like having 100 ponytails in your hair for a week). Though my hairstylist was on standby to come to my house and to cut my hair when I gave the signal (thanks Genevieve!), I begged my husband to cut my hair off with an electric razor. He was shaken up, but my head felt a hundred times better. How ironic that it was Dec. 21, the shortest day of the year.

I was the envy of the chemo room to have full eyebrows and long lush eyelashes going into my sixth and final chemo treatment on my husband’s birthday in March. Three weeks later, when I thought I was in the clear, my face began to disappear. As my brows grew fainter, I felt my identity fading a little each day. I counted my lashes daily and winced as they dwindled to eight, then six and four, until just a single brave lash winked back at me. I looked in the mirror and wondered: ‘Who is this person staring back at me?’ And, I thought: ‘This is it. This is the hardest part. Losing these tiny hairs that frame up your face … and feeling invisible.’

I have come to realize that the image we portray to the world is a complex arrangement that we don’t typically see deconstructed. Cancer “calls” you out on your sense of identity, which I found personally revealing, but also disarming.

Continued on page 121

122 October–November 2012

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Photos courtesy Zandra Wolfgram

the last word

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com October–November 2012

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