Emerald Coast Magazine April 2013 – May 2013 Issue

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The Emer ald Coast Maga zine

ALYS BEACH Meet the couple that gets our “Vogt” for most stunning town design TIME TO WINE We pour on the tips for the best wine fest season yet OFF THE WALL(PAPER) How you can rock the designs on these rolls

Stellar Students

Who’s making the grade on the Emerald Coast?

Meet five amazing high school super stars who ace our test.

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com April–May 2013

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Before

After

It will change more than your body.

Services Offered 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

Permanent Lip Enhancements Thigh Lift Scar Revision Botox Juvederm Radiesse Skin Care Services (offered by our Medical Aesthetician)

Steven J Clark , MD Board Certified Plastic Surgeon Miramar Beach in the Sacred Heart Medical Office Building 850-267-4582 | bluewaterplasticsurger y.com

BEFORE

AFTER

Abdominoplasty/Tummy Tuck

YOU CANNOT BUY A REPUTATION! Dr. Clark feels that when sculpting the body with Liposuction and Abdominoplasty the training and experience of the surgeon is key to obtain a safe and superior result.

WHAT PEOPLE ARE SAYING

KRIST M., CRESTVIEW, FL “There aren’t words to express how grateful I am to each of you for making my experience so amazing!!! Your kindness and professionalism far exceeded my expectations. You all are truly the BEST!!!”

D.M., EGLIN AFB, FL “I would like to thank Dr. Clark (aka ‘The MiracleWorker’) and his entire staff for a phenomenal job! Due to the care, concern and compassion that they put forth this experience has been wonderful. I am only 16 days post-op and I am more than ecstatic about my results. Once my healing process is complete I will post pictures, because the change that this wonderful man has created for me is one that you have to see to believe! All of you will be in my hearts eternally for helping to change my life forever. Thanks again, Dr. Clark!”

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

CATHY, STAMFORD, CT “Just wanted to thank Dr. Clark and his staff for being terrific. Dr. Clark you have given me my self esteem. Rachael, thanks for being on top of everything and making my arrangements so easy.”

CHARLOTTE S., HURLBURT FIELD, FL “Dr. Clark’s staff is awesome. They are caring and patient. His staff has made so many post-op phone calls to check on me and make me feel special. I have been wanting this procedure for a long time. Even though I am only a few days post-op and it’s too soon to see the final result, I am sure I will be happy!!”

REBECCA, MIRAMAR BEACH, FL “Dr. Clark, I cannot thank you enough.

My results are fabulous. I cannot say enough about you or your amazing staff. The personal attention you and your staff gave me before and after my surgery was great. Thank you!”

Steven J. Clark M.D., D.M.D. FACS Bluewater Plastic Surgery and Cosmetic Center

4592 Hwy 20, Ste 3 in Bluewater Bay EmeraldCoastMagazine.com April–May 2013

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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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PHOTO Courtesy Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort / Allison Yii

The Emerald Coast Magazine April + May 2013

contents

FEATURES

58 BRIGHT FUTURES

eet the Emerald Coast’s rising student M super stars. By Zandra Wolfgram and

Laura Bradley

CELEBRATES 70 S40ANDESTIN YEARS A snapshot of the mega-resort’s colorful, storied past. By Zandra Wolfgram

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contents in the e.c.

19 Snapshot Green-minded Matthew Nicholas drives one “slick” ride.

20 Giving Back The Thompson’s really know how to “Throwdown” to raise dollars, awareness.

26 Chat Meet Michel Thibault. Matching a face to this wine expert’s name is a pleasurable pairing.

28 Personality We won’t “white wash” the tale of these talented town architects.

34 Editor’s Choice A warm and fuzzy story about comebacks we can actually “bear.”

38 Scene This is what we’ve seen and heard on the EC.

happenings 41 Spotlight Put on that “little black number” and give women’s health awareness a big boost.

42 Culture Ruskin Place is the he(art) of Seaside.

46 Calendar Spring into the season by attending local concerts, art exhibits, theater productions and festivals.

51 Social Studies Were you there? We were!

Look who was out and about on the EC.

the good life 87 Eudaimonia We have the word on Redbirdart.

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88 Going Places Make your way to Maine!

95 Gardening Make a “splash” at the garden club with these helpful hints.

97 Habitat Wallpaper design trends that will take your home from wallflower to wow.

106 F YI It’s Stroke Awareness Month … and every second counts.

108 F lavor Expert tips on how best to sip and swirl your way through spring wine festival season.

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

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

Special Sections 36 Gift Guide 77 Medical Profiles 100 Deal Estate

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122 Follow us @emeraldcoastmag

Like us at facebook.com/emeraldcoast

Photo By Scott Holstein (p. 28)

A word with You

PRESENTING

DEAL ESTATE A NEW ADVERTISING OPPORTUNITY FOR THE REAL ESTATE MARKET

The real estate market is returning, forclosures are down, 30A is on fire and investors are on the hunt again. On page 100 of this issue, EC Magazine launches a new editorial department called “Deal Estate,” dedicated solely to residential and commercial real estate in the Emerald Coast region. Packed with timely information that appeals to potential buyers and sellers — and readers who just like to keep up with the market — Deal Estate will appear in every issue of EC Magazine and be featured on the new emeraldcoastmagazine.com.

Strategically position your company and take advantage of this new advertising opportunity by calling us at 850-878-0554.

Vol. 14, No. 2 April–May 2013 The Emerald Coast Magazine

President/Publisher

Brian E. Rowland

EDITORIAL

Director of Editorial Services Linda Kleindienst Editor Zandra Wolfgram Staff Writer Jason Dehart Editorial Coordinator Laura Bradley Contributing Writers Elvin C. Bell, Laura Bradley, Jason Dehart, Wendy O. Dixon, Janice Dunlap, Jennifer Howard, Lis King, Tracy Louthain, Jack Macaleavy, Thomas J. Monigan, Kay Phelan, Audrey Post, Zandra Wolfgram Editorial Intern Chay Baxley Prepress Specialist Melinda Lanigan

CREATIVE

Creative Director Lawrence Davidson Assistant Creative Director Saige Roberts Senior Graphic Designer Jennifer Ekrut Graphic Designers Lizzie Moore, Laura Patrick, Shruti Shah Production Manager/Network Administrator Daniel Vitter Staff Photographer Scott Holstein Contributing Photographers Cathy Catanese, Michelle Castle Photography, Lawrence Davidson, Jack Gardner, HBB Photography, Erin Ledbetter Photography, Rhonda Lynn Murray, Kay Phelan, Kansas Pitts Photography, Leslie Siller Photography, Shelly Swanger, Melissa J. Thurber Photography, Fred Turnbow, Jacqueline Ward, Zandra Wolfgram, Allison Yii

SALES, MARKETING & EVENTS

Marketing and Sales Manager McKenzie Burleigh Director of New Business Daniel Parisi Traffic Coordinator Lisa Sostre Sales Executives Rhonda Lynn Murray, Darla Harrison, Tracy Mulligan, Chris St. John Special Projects And Events Manager Caroline Conway Special Projects And Events Coordinator Lynda Belcher

OPERATIONS

Administrative Services Manager Emily Bohnstengel Staff Accountant Mark Baldwell Accounting Specialist Tabby Hamilton Receptionists Mary Elizabeth Bosco, Kimber Fraley, Jazmeen Sule

WEB

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

SUBSCRIPTIONS

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

Editorial Office 1932 Miccosukee Road, Tallahassee, FL, 32308 Customer Service & Submissions EC Magazine and Rowland Publishing, Inc. are not responsible for unsolicited manuscripts, photography or artwork. Editorial contributions are welcomed and encouraged but will not be returned. EC Magazine reserves the right to publish any letters to the editor.

Copyright April 2013 Emerald Coast Magazine Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is prohibited.

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Proud member Florida Magazine Association

DAV AVII D YUR URMA UR MAN MA N KWIAT G URHAN DANIEL K M AR R CO B ICEGO O RO OBE ER RTO T COI OIN N ERI RICA CA C OURTNEY JEAN AN-F F RA R A NC NCOI OIS S A LBERT T KO O NS NSTA TA A NT N IN INO O O SCAR HEYMA MA AN PAUL MOR RE EL L LI L A LE E X S E PKUS HEATHER M OO O RE HEN ENR R I DAUSSI RI JU U DE FRANCES S PAME PA MELA LA FROMAN

2012

—— Finest Jeweelrry & Watches —— — 1339 13 33900 Hi H gh ghwaay 98 Wes e t, Destin, Florida 325 2550 5 r 88550.

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from the publisher A New “Deal” for You

One of my weekly Sunday afternoon routines is to browse through the various city magazines I receive as I sit watching golf, football or a mindless television show that doesn’t require 100 percent of my attention. In doing so, I see a lot of new publishing trends, promotional ideas, good (and bad) stories, all of which help me ensure that I am keeping my own titles current, quotable and well read.

One editorial trend I have seen in some of the city magazines that I consider to be ahead of the curve is a devotion of editorial space covering the real estate industry.

The focus is on well-balanced content that showcases several aspects of the industry and is designed to have high reader appeal.

Let’s face it. At the beginning of the last decade, everyone was a brilliant and shrewd real estate investor who had to stand under an umbrella to protect themselves from the profits falling out of the sky. But then the music stopped. The bubble burst and the inflated real estate values began to plummet. For many, the value of their home was far less than what they still owed on the mortgage — and we saw a complete collapse of the market.

Today, however, things are starting to turn around. Prices are normalizing and properties are starting to sell. There are fewer foreclosures and short sales. Bruised and battered real estate investors are starting to come out of their caves. And banks are beginning to lend money again, but now they’re being more selective, as well they should be since I feel they were a critical factor in the downfall of the market.

Most importantly, we now have a rebounding market that is forming a solid foundation for the revitalization of our local, state and national economies.

So, in this issue, I am proud to unveil what will be a new regular feature of our magazine, a featured called Deal Estate. In this feature, we will talk about particular neighborhoods, give you some historical perspective on the industry and then focus on the economic journey of one home and property — why it has or has not sold. We’ll also delve into the financial aspects of buying or selling a home.

Specifically, in this new department you will be reading: In The Neighborhood — This will provide a historical perspective of a particular neighborhood in our community. Here we will also trace the economic journey of one home and try to project its future.

Show Me The Money — An informational short about one of the financial aspects of buying or selling a property.

Just Listed — A profile on a specific home that has just come — or is about to come — onto the market.

Just Sold — A profile of a specific home and why it has just sold, or a property that has lingered on the market and why it is not selling.

That Second Home — From the coast to the mountains, from a farm to a lake home, we will showcase a property for sale and discuss investment potential and strategy.

It’s Just Business — Here we will deal with the commercial side of real estate, from the perspective of what is coming or what just sold. Watch here for some interesting facts about the commercial real estate world.

Please turn to page 100 and see what we have done. We do anticipate our topics will modify over time as the market continues to change. In the meantime, we welcome your critical feedback and recommendations as to what else we might look to cover as we develop this new section of our magazine. And, when you decide to make a real estate transaction of your own — to invest or divest — we would ask that you consider consulting one of our strategic partner advertisers.

on the cover

The bridge to our bright future is here. We were impressed and inspired by each of these exceptional high school superstars featured in our cover story (left to right) Kyle Saleeby, Alex Wagner, Christy Allen, Helena Whittaker and Brittany Brown. Thanks to Kansas Pitts Photography we were able to gather the busy seniors for a group portrait at the Beach Highland walkover in Santa Rosa Beach. We wish them all the best as they leave the Emerald Coast to pursue their passions at leading universities all across the nation.

VOL. 14 NO. 2

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ALYS BEACH Meet the couple that gets our “Vogt” for most stunning town design

THE EMER ALD COAST MAGA ZINE

TIME TO WINE We pour on the tips for the best wine fest season yet

STELLAR STUDENTS

OFF THE WALL(PAPER) How you can rock the designs on these rolls

— Brian Rowland browland@rowlandpublishing.com 13EC_AM_WhiteWilson.indd 1

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EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM APRIL-MAY 2013

Voted Best Medical Practice!

Stellar Students

Who’s making the grade on the Emerald Coast?

Meet five amazing high school super stars who ace our test.

2/22/13 4:30 PM

Photo by Scott Holstein

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editor’s note So there I was, walking through the aisles while snapping pictures of Emerald Coast’s most fabulous and fashionable in the salon industry. They are indulging me with beautiful smiles across freshly made up faces when I hear my name called over the microphone. In my head, I hear the sound of the needle screeching across a record. Rrrrrroooot.

Everything stopped. Including me. My camera dangled from my neck as I stood up in the middle of the audience and looked back at the stage, where two of my magazine colleagues stand at the podium, beaming at me.

What? They are calling my name and just a few minutes ago they were announcing an award. The award. The Lifetime Achievement Award. (It is supposed to go to someone in the salon industry who has made a difference. If you’ve seen my kid’s homemade haircuts, you know they made more than a big exception this year.) What the … ?

I’ll let you in on a secret. This was a first. Yes, of course, a first to receive a Lifetime Achievement award. (I did just have a birthday, but how old do you think I am?) But I was referring to another first.

A first time I’ve ever been … yes, I’m saying it: speechless. For a professional communicator, this is pretty much like being naked, only worse. Being naked gives McKenzie Burleigh and Rhonda Lynn Murray the audience something to respond to. presented the surprise Lifetime Achievement I should have been paying closer Award along with a smooch. attention. I mean, I am the editor of the magazine the event is named for: Emerald Coast Top Salon. I’m in a daze. I hear them summon me to the stage, where there is a huge spotlight and everyone is clapping.

What exactly did they just say? Who wrote that speech? I make my way to the podium and stutter and stammer something that I hope expressed my gratitude. Because honestly, I was so stunned I’m not even sure I said a simple “Thank you.”

So I would like to say it now. To everyone at Rowland Publishing Inc., and especially to publisher Brian Rowland and my sales and marketing colleagues McKenzie Burleigh and Rhonda Lynn Murray, who said such kind things about me. And to the gracious (and gorgeous) audience for enduring my deer-in-the-headlights moment: Thank You. Being given an Achievement award is something. Being given a Lifetime Achievement Award is quite something. I can only live this life. If my choices and efforts over the years have been interesting enough, creative enough, caring enough or courageous enough for you or anyone to take notice, then I am glad. I don’t think I deserve an award for it, but I do appreciate it.

I don’t feel quite old enough to deserve this honor, but if you subscribe to the notion “Life is short,” then this award couldn’t have come soon enough. In a sense aren’t we all living on borrowed time? I feel as though I’m just getting started, and certainly there is so much more I can and should do. I can only hope the rest of this journey is just as exciting and meaningful as the very special moment in the spotlight you gave me.

I don’t imagine I’ll ever receive a Lifetime Achievement Award again. But I am inspired to do my best to live up to this one. We all might not be recognized on a stage in a sparkling room full of people we admire, but we can do our best to live deliberately.

Do this, and you win every day.

—Z andra Wolfgram editor@emeraldcoastmagazine.com 12 April–May 2013

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com

editor’s picks A Monopoly on Fun Roll the dice and collect $200 as you “Go to the Beach” to “buy” your favorite South Walton beach properties. Featuring over 75 local businesses, 30A-opoly is produced by the parents of The Tree House Episcopal Montessori School at Christ the King Episcopal Church as a fundraiser, with proceeds from the wholesale of each game to benefit early education efforts in Santa Rosa Beach. Available at retailers along 30A, including Sundog Books in Seaside.

A Homerun It’s baseball season. Soon the Maritime Park stadium in Pensacola will be filled with Blue Wahoo fans. The first home game is April 4 at 7 p.m. against the Tennessee Smokies. You know what that means? That’s right. Time for stadium hot dogs and cold beer! And while you’re at it, pass the peanuts and Cracker Jack!

CLARIFICATION

In the February/March 2013 issue cover story we published photos of a lovely bridal couple that were captioned incorrectly. They are Megan and Bobby Allen, who were married at St. Rita’s on April 28, 2012, followed by a reception at Bentley’s on the Bay. The photos were taken by Kansas Pitts Photography. On page 13 you will find wedding photos of another lovely Emerald Coast couple, Leslie and Tim Horst, photographed by Michelle Castle Photography. We sincerely apologize for the error, but we are thrilled for the opportunity to include beautiful photos of one more breathtaking bride and her handsome groom.

Also, on page 39 Gary Mauer is pictured performing with Morgan James in Sinfonia’s Broadway Holiday.

Photo By Allison Yii (Wolfgram) ANd Courtesy www.30a-opoly.com (30A-opoly game)

An Award-Winning Life

Plush Pageantry

Leslie+Tim

June 30, 2012 — High-school sweethearts

Tim and Leslie Horst held their wedding ceremony on Carillon Beach, complete with a military sword arch and a special appearance by their beloved dog, Dexter. The couple was creative and incorporated several do-ityourself projects for their wedding, including placecards made out of luggage tags that had each guest’s name and “destination” on them.

The pair also hired an oyster shucker to split shells for their guests at the reception.

Leslie found Carillon Beach online through a photographer’s website, but as soon as she saw the beaches and Market Street, she knew it was “the one.”

“I couldn’t stop staring at the pictures and was tearing up at the thought of using the beach walkover and soft sand for my aisle,” she said. “When we got to the resort, the tears started flowing again, as it was more beautiful than the pictures even made it seem.

Everything is perfectly manicured; the houses are all bright, Florida colors; and the beaches are some of the most incredible I’ve ever seen … It’s one of the most important spots in the world to us.”

Wedding planner: Carillon Beach Weddings Cake: Cakes by Tanis Gown designer: Jordan Fashions Groom’s wardrobe: U.S. Marine Corps summer dress blues Hair: Indulgence Salon Makeup: Indulgence Salon Photographer: Michelle Castle Photography Wedding venue: Carillon Beach Reception venue: Carillon Beach Resort’s Pool Flowers: Fisher’s Flowers Invitations: I Do Bliss Décor: Fisher’s Flowers Officiant: Michael Young of Chapel at the Beach Entertainment: Gulf Talent Services and Emerald County Line EmeraldCoastMagazine.com April–May 2013

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

Hello Mr. Rowland, You do not know me but I felt compelled to write you a letter of gratitude. I read your “I Am So Glad It Is Over” (February/March 2013) letter this morning, and I want you to know that your words expressed my every thought regarding (the 2012) election, but could never find the right words to describe.

I find on a daily basis I am thinking about the political spectrum and what it has become. I am very active in the political circle, but unlike most I am open to new thoughts and ideas. I don’t argue, nor do I have my head buried in the sand. At some point, I would like to find myself running for a small office position within our community. I feel it’s my calling!

Your letter was very refreshing, wonderfully written and I just wanted to say thanks!

P.S. I love EC Magazine.

Mimi Ramirez Great job! Your magazine has a lot of useful information.

Elvin C. Bell Destin I wanted to congratulate you. You and your team are making EC Magazine a treasured read. Similar to those notable nationals like Southern Living and Coastal Living, EC is a publication you look forward to taking time to read.

Laurie Hobbs Miramar Beach

SIP THE FINEST MARGARITA Experience the modern side of Mexican cuisine Taste guacamole made fresh at your table Savor fresh seafood and steaks with authentic sauces

Thanks Thomas for your Well-Worded story “Ken Tucker’s ‘Last Roll Call’ Keeps WWII History Alive” (December/ January 2013). [EC magazine] did a great job, because they had a great reporter and photographer. My dad was very pleased and proud of the article. We are sending copies to several family members and friends.

Thank you,

Wanda Tucker Goodwin Panama City

Grand Boulevard

Sandestin 850.654.5649 cantinalaredo.com

CELEBRATE CINCO DE MAYO!

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SO O N CO M IN G

WE’RE ABOUT TO REDEFINE WHAT IT MEANS TO BE MOBILE

ON THE EMERALD COAST, MOBILE CAN MEAN ANYWHERE. On the he beach or on the water, you’re constantly on the go. No matter where ere er e your adventures take you, EC Magazine will be available at your fingertips. Our new website (launching soon) will feature more photos and stories about the people, places and events along the Emerald Coast. And it will be designed with a revolutionary interface that automatically adapts our pictures and stories to be easily viewable on any size mobile device — phone, tablet or laptop. So, say goodbye to pinching and zooming, and say hello to the new emeraldcoastmagazine.com

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The new EC Magazine website�…�your source for the best the Emerald Coast has to offer » A complete list of all current and past “Best Of the Emerald Coast” winners, as voted by our readers

» The area’s most comprehensive calendar of community events, gatherings and entertainment

» A new “Deal Estate” section, with property listings and information about buying and selling real estate

» A searchable archive of past EC Magazine issues

» Dynamic photo galleries showcasing our area’s premier events and fundraisers

» Our latest digital flipbook

» An all-new searchable and sortable guide to the top dining establishments along the Emerald Coast

» Plus, more stories, photos and exclusive behind-thescenes web content

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in the e.c.

Peopl e + St y le + H y p e

Snapshot

One Slick Ride

On Earth Day this spring, Matthew Nicholas will surely be cruising a truly “slick” ride, a 1981 Mercedes that runs on … vegetable oil.

Driving a “vegetarian” car is not a new concept for this 31-year-old “minimalist.” Two years ago he opened a cab company that operated its two-car fleet on vegetable oil donated from local restaurants.

Though the down economy got the best of his taxi service, Nicholas still rides around the Emerald Coast in a “veggie vehicle.”

Though he claims only to be a “tinkerer at best,” Nicholas has rigged three veggie cars himself. With “a little research and a lot of trial and error” he learned to convert a diesel engine into a two tank “green” car. The car begins operating on diesel fuel tank; once the engine is warmed up, Nicholas switches it to its vegetable oil tank.

Over time Nicholas has turned his well-oiled car into a small gold mine. He rides 1,000 miles for every paid gallon of gas. Working as a bartender at the Funky Blues Shack in The Village of Baytowne Wharf, Nicholas has scored gratis oil, saving even more.

For this Santa Rosa Beach resident, looking out for the environment is a natural. “I do what I can, live simply, ’cycle, the basic,” he says.

“I just wish I didn’t have to drive to the recycle place, you know?” Hmm … “green” waste management pickup trucks has a nice oily ring to it, don’t you think? — Zandra Wolfgram

Photo by HBB Photography

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giving back

The Most Valuable Backyard Barbeque in Town

By Kay Phelan

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hef Emeril Lagasse, actor Morgan Freeman and baseball player Rusty Staub are just a few of the folks you might spot at Michael and Valerie Thompson’s annual backyard barbecue.

Seven years ago, Mike Thompson, founder and chief operating officer of ITS Technical Services, an electronics manufacturing company in Alpharetta, Ga., and his wife, Valerie, began organizing and hosting parties for friends at their Sandestin home.

It didn’t take long for their annual barbecue, known as the Chi Chi Miguel Throwdown, to become one of the hottest events on the Emerald Coast. Thanks to connections made over the years, such as Mike’s service on the board of the Emeril Lagasse Foundation, the Thompsons have an enviable guest list that looks a little more like a celebrity A-list.

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Photo by Fred Turnbow

Actor Morgan Freeman is flanked by Dan Kosta (left) and Chi Chi Miguel Throwdown hosts Valerie and Mike Thompson. Last year, a private dinner with the Hollywood star was auctioned for $80,000, which benefitted local charities.

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The Chi Chi Miguel Throwdown transforms the Thompson’s Backyard into a big barbecue bash; The Herbert Brothers team led by celebrity chef Emeril Lagasse (left) captured the honors for best barbecue competition in 2012.

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In the last three years, the Thompsons have turned their party and personal connections into a fundraiser to benefit local charities, raising over a half million dollars in 2012 alone. The couple’s philanthropic efforts and extensive wine collections housed in custom wine cellars in their Florida and Colorado home, have been featured in Wine Spectator magazine. For this dynamic couple it’s passion well placed. “We have combined our love of wines and desire to give back,” Valerie Thompson says.

In what has now become a two-day, star-studded happening with celebrities and world-class wine vintners, the 7th Annual Throwdown will take place on April 6. The two days encompass a Sip ‘n’ Shop tour for the ladies at boutiques along Scenic Corridor 30-A in South Walton County and a golf tournament for the men.

The grand finale is an outdoor gathering at the Thompsons’ home for a barbeque competition and live auction.

This year’s celebrity line-up will feature Chef Emeril Lagasse; Jonathan Cain, musician, songwriter and longtime member of the rock band, Journey; Rich Aurilia, 15-year veteran baseball player formerly with the San Francisco Giants; and 23-year baseball veteran Rusty Staub.

Photos Courtesy Leslie Siller Photography and Melissa J. Thurber Photography

giving back

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‘‘

Valerie and Mike Thompson open their Sandestin home to 125 guests at the exclusive party each year; Singer/songwriter Geoff McBride and Academy Award-winning actor Morgan Freeman were A-list entertainers at last year’s shindig.

... The dollars raised have given our Child Advocacy Center the resources to help restore the often lost childhoods of children who have experienced abuse, abandonment or neglect. The children we serve thank God for people like them every day. They are truly angels.” — ECCAC Executive Director Julie Hurst

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In addition to a host of celebrated vintners being on hand, an integral part of the Throwdown evening at the Thompsons’ backyard barbeque is a prize bevy of unique lots being live auctioned by one of the country’s top auctioneers, Ursula Hermacinski. An example of the Throwdown’s highly sought after packages last year was a celebrity dinner with Academy award-winning actor Morgan Freeman that sold for $80,000. The celebrated actor has agreed to return again for his third year to host a dinner, which will be auctioned off during the live auction.

The exclusive guest list of 125 isn’t the only beneficiary of the festive event. Thanks to the generous guests of the Throwdown, local charities such as the Emerald Coast Children’s Advocacy Center (ECCAC), Alaqua Animal Refuge, Children’s Volunteer Health Network, Emeril Lagasse Foundation, George Rodrigue Foundation of the Arts and Camille’s Art for Autism have shared more than $750,000.

That generosity has not gone unnoticed.

“Valerie and Mike are such kind and giving people. Their generosity is humbling,” said ECCAC Executive Director Julie Hurst.

“The dollars raised have given our Child Advocacy Center the resources to help restore the often lost childhoods of children who have experienced abuse, abandonment or neglect. The children we serve thank God for people like them every day. They are truly angels.”

The event has struck a cord with the celebrity guest list, too. “Destin is an incredible community filled with generous people. The Thompsons are wonderful and generous hosts. As my third Throwdown, I’m so pleased with the results and excited to see the rewarding programs that these contributions will help create on the Gulf Coast,” Emeril Lagasse says. ec

Photo By Scott Holstein (Mike & Valerie Thompson) and Courtesy Proffitt PR (Freeman and McBride)

giving back

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chat

C’est le Vin!

French wine expert shares his passion for wine and cheese

By Wendy O. Dixon

G

rowing up in a family of hoteliers in Grenoble, France, surrounded by snow-capped mountains in the French Alps, Michel Thibault must have found the Florida Panhandle to be a bit unrefined. Mais, non! Turns out, he loves this folksy part of the USA. “The Alps are so beautiful,” he says.

“But my theory is that I like every place I go.

I enjoy people. This is another nice place, and I do like the feel of the community.

And I’ve gotten so used to Florida, I like wearing short sleeves.”

After coming to America at age 19, teaching snow skiing in Utah and earning a graduate degree in literature, Thibault landed a job at Ma Maison, the hottest, most fashionable restaurant in L.A., as well as La Bella Fontana inside the elegant Beverly Wilshire Hotel. Later he moved to Louisiana, where he met his wife, Delta, and worked at Lafitte’s Landing and Commander’s Palace. After relocating to Grayton Beach to manage Criolla’s restaurant, Thibault joined Chan Cox at Chan’s Wine World, where he now acts as vice president and director of sales for the wine shop’s nine locations in the Panhandle.

The co-owner and partner heads up Internet sales at onlinewine.net, with markets primarily in the U.S., Hong Kong, Belgium and the U.K. It all adds up to 45 years in a celebrated career in wine. Thibault was recently inducted into the 800-year-old wine society Jurade of Saint-Emilion in Bordeaux, France. “The ceremony was held in a church, under another church, in a cave,” he recalls. “All these guys and women were wearing robes and carrying torches.

It was really unbelievable.”

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Wine aficionado Michel Thibault eyes the color and body of his wine before giving it a sniff, swirl and sip at Chan’s Wine World in Destin.

EC: We know the French make superb wine. Enlighten us Americans on the French attitude about wine?

MT: In France, wine is definitely part of every meal. But people use it as a food, like bread. And the wines there are only five to eight bucks. However, there are now enormously hyped laws about drinking and driving. So French people are drinking less because of the laws.

EC: How do you find this area compared to your hometown?

MT: I like to have a rapport with the people here, many who are on vacation, so they’re very happy. I try to be a part of that experience.

EC: What fascinates you about wine?

MT: The best aspect of wine is that it’s an ever-changing product. With wines, because they are live products made by different people in different regions with different soils and weather, it’s extremely complex. And everyone tries to make the best wine they can to sell.

EC: OK, what will you drink today?

MT: Today I really like wine from

Argentina. There’s a huge effort there to make red blends with some malbec, which is quite nice. The Chakana, a dense concentrated wine that rates 93 on Robert Parker (a wine advocate rating system) is $20. When you get ratings that high for that price, it’s pretty insane.

EC: Do you have one favorite wine?

MT: I don’t. I have a different favorite every day.

EC: What cheese would you pair with that wine?

MT: Wine and cheese are almost like brother and sister, the Chakana paired with a BellaVitano raspberry cheese from Italy would really satisfy me.

EC: What’s the best part of your job?

MT: The job we do is to educate folks on the aspects of wine. If you are shopping for a new car, they will point out the features of the car, the soft leather or unique equipment. That’s what we do with wine. We guide you through it. None of us has the same palate. To match a person with a wine, that’s a pleasure. ec

Photo by Scott Holstein

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com April–May 2013

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personality

The Vogts Are In Meet the Town Architects of Amazing Alys Beach

By Tracy Louthain

28 April–May 2013

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com

Photo by Scott Holstein

Husband and wife architect team Erik and Marieanne Khoury-Vogt have designs on the Alys Beach lifestyle.

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personality

2012

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PHOTO BY JACK GARDNER

W

hen the husband-wife team of Erik Vogt and Marieanne Koury-Vogt started their own architecture firm in Miami in August 2001, they didn’t know what the future would bring. After several successful years in business, friend and colleague Andres Duany introduced them to the Stevens family of Birmingham to discuss plans for a town development founded in New Urbanism that would include codes for sustainability and fortified building.

The land for the development was on Highway 30A near Rosemary Beach and had been owned by the Stephens family for many years. The family hired Miami-based Duany PlaterZyberk (DPZ) to create a master plan for 158-acres, including a mixture of radiating streets, parks and parkways crisscrossed by pedestrian paths, sleepy lanes and a nature preserve.

“We traveled to Birmingham to meet Jason Comer and the Stephens family and learn more about the project,” says Marieanne. “Even though it required us to relocate, we thought it was a wonderful opportunity.”

Armed with their education and experience working on design projects around the world, they were ready to focus their talents on one singular project. Marieanne received her undergraduate degree in Paris and a double Masters in Architecture and Urban Planning from the University of Wisconsin, Milwaukee. Erik had a Bachelor of Architecture from the University of Miami and Master of Architecture from Yale University. He was back in Miami teaching when he met Marieanne, an outgoing, articulate architect with a passion for urban planning and traditional design.

They made the move to South Walton in March 2004 and immediately knew the project was a great fit for their talents.

Erik, a perpetual scholar and analytic, likes Mediterranean-style architecture — traditionally-based, stripped down, clean, simple, modern in character. He gravitates toward coastal communities such as those found in Morocco, Italy and Greece — towns with coherent architecture. Marieanne shares those sentiments. She is drawn to the architectural styles of Egypt, Spain and Portugal and likes the blend of outdoor with indoor living.

Many of these design elements became the foundation for the town, which was named Alys Beach after the matriarch of the Stephens family. As the town architects for Alys Beach, Erik

and Marieanne’s primary responsibility Alys Beach’s iconic walls is to safeguard the vision. In the early alabaster were inspired by days, they spent much of their time the coastal villages establishing the design codes — urban of Bermuda and Guatemala. design codes, sustainability codes, Antigua Not only is the fortified building codes and landscape design beautiful, codes, among others — to provide the but it has become a renown example of framework for development. sustainable living.

The town reflects a blend of tradition and romance, the union of English and Spanish, resulting in an architectural style that is simple and timeless. The all-white town is inspired by Bermuda and Antigua Guatemala with white stucco walls and white-ridged roofs. Design elements embrace the Venturi effect, which takes advantage of wind currents, capturing coastal breezes to keep the town cool. The signature courtyard homes seamlessly blend indoor and outdoor living. The thoughtfully designed town is focused on sustainability and limiting impacts on the environment.

Today, the Alys Beach team has grown tremendously, and Erik and Marieanne’s role continues to evolve. Their time is divided among departments, including construction, sales, marketing and town planning.

“We see all disciplines working together,” says Erik. “We enjoy every aspect, but I selfishly enjoy the design work the most.”

Both Erik and Marieanne agree that every day is unique and even more rewarding than they could have imagined when accepting the job eight years ago. On any given day, they work with a variety of individuals and departments, including new buyers who wish to build a custom home; the landscape team to identify native species that would best complement new town developments; the developer on design details such as hiding utilities or design concepts for new phases; the construction team for building that is currently underway; the marketing team on collateral and website updates; and the sales team meeting potential buyers who want to know more about the town and the building process.

“I love engaging design work, but it is exciting to work with an incredible team that all have something to contribute. We help each other, making the result even better. We continue to improve and learn lessons along the way,” Marieanne says.

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Like any plan, the master development plan continues to evolve over time, and changes have been made to address changes in the marketplace and needs that are identified over time.

“There have been changes to the town center and the Gulf-front home design.

We’ve broadened the architectural influences,” explains Erik. “Bermudan language can be limiting, so we’ve been able to enhance with Mediterranean, Spanish and Moroccan influences. The styles permeate the architecture here and make the town more exciting.”

One of the recent changes to the master plan was on the south side of Highway 30A. The team engaged the talents of Demetri Porphyrios, a Greek architect and author based in London, to create multi-family homes on some of the Gulf-front property.

The new design is three-story instead of two-story, and the intricate work is architecturally different than Alys Beach’s signature courtyard homes.

Changes to the town center from the original DPZ plans are underway as well to ensure the right mix of retail, commercial, apartment living and public space. Construction will begin later this year on the Town Center’s Market Café, which is slated to open late 2014. In the meantime, construction is underway on the Alys Shoppe, which will open early summer.

“We’ve had a great year in 2012, second only to 2005,” shares Erik. “We hope this year is just as good. More owners and more growth allows for more parks, greens and commercial spaces.”

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PHOTO BY JACK GARDNER (Fonville Press)

The chic Caliza Pool has become an Emerald Coast social hot spot, while the Fonville Press (right) provides a convenient cornerstone for the town’s center — both spaces have earned prestigious design accolades.

personality

‘‘

... We’ve broadened the architectural influences.

Bermudan language can be limiting, so we’ve been able to enhance with Mediterranean, Spanish and Moroccan influences. The styles permeate the architecture here and make the town more exciting.” — Erik Vogt

Erik and Marieanne’s work has not gone unnoticed. They have been recognized with three prestigious Palladio Awards for public spaces, including Fonville Press, Caliza Pool and Sea Garden Path, as well as awarded the Shutze Award by the Institute of Classical Architecture for Caliza Pool.

When asked if this is their dream job, sharp-witted Erik laughs, “I haven’t really given it any thought. I can say this, if I met the person with my job, I would be jealous.”

The Vogts have nestled into the job and their home in Alys Beach quite comfortably. While the lack of division between work and personal time may seem wearing to some, the Vogts find it most enjoyable.

“When you love a job so much, it is a seamless transition from personal to professional life,” says Erik.

The couple has become integrally involved in the local community. With two daughters (Eva, 12, in the seventh grade at Seaside Neighborhood School, and Maya, 8, in third grade at Bay Elementary) they can frequently be found at school fundraisers and sporting events.

Both Marieanne and Erik agree that the best part of the job is seeing their designs come to fruition.

“It is so rewarding,” says Marieanne. “It never gets old — having the opportunity to work together on this project and seeing our designs realized.”

Alys Beach defines itself as “A life of balance. A life of beauty. A life of simplicity. A life of grace. A life defined.”

Marieanne and Erik are ensuring these elements remain intact while living these principles within their own family.

Quite simply, it’s a life of many simple pleasures. ec

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editor’s choice

Good News Bears The Florida black bear makes a comeback

By Laura Bradley

T

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Florida black bears aren’t exactly particular when it comes to their environment, but they prefer heavily forested areas.

and helps keep our forests and swamps in a natural balance.

Florida black bears aren’t exactly particular when it comes to their environment, but they prefer heavily forested areas. More than 1,000 call the Ocala National Forest home, making that region the most heavily populated area. But there are seven other population centers: the Apalachicola National Forest and Eglin Air Force Base in Northwest Florida, as well as Big Cypress National Preserve, Osceola National Forest, the St. Johns River near St. Augustine, Chassahowitzka National Wildlife Refuge, and portions of Glades and Highlands counties.

These are places where the bears can traditionally be found, said Telesco, and their expansion in these areas is a natural result of conservation efforts.

“A lot of the efforts that were made before were to allow bears where they existed historically to expand in these areas — and allow that population growth,” he said.

Bears in Florida may not necessarily hibernate, but they do slow down their behavior and seek dens in the winter.

They take shelter in ground nests,

thickets and fallen branches. Pregnant females den from December to April and can emerge with two cubs. Other bears den as necessary, based on what food is available, and can go into a deep sleep from which they can be roused easily.

A black bear’s diet is 80 percent nuts, fruits, vegetables and saw palmetto berries.

They will also eat bugs for protein, and small mammals on occasion. As people steadily develop communities within their habitat though, the bears also have taken an opportunistic liking to pet food, birdseed and garbage. These are fast and easy food resources and what primarily leads to human-bear encounters.

“They can smell a mile away, literally, so they pick up the scent of food,” Telesco said. “Now, granted, we wouldn’t consider garbage food, but there’s plenty of calories in the garbage that we put out, and that gives off a scent. So, they’ll go and they’ll knock over the garbage can and rummage through there. The reality is, even if there’s good food in the forest, the bears can get a lot more calories with a lot less effort if they knock over a garbage can to get it.”

Florida black bears are generally not aggressive. They’re actually quite timid,

Photo COURTESY Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission

hey’re spotted as fleeting dark shadows along the roads, woods and beaches of the Forgotten Coast and live their lives despite the encroachment of people and development. In fact, the Florida black bear may actually be thriving in parts of Northwest Florida, thanks (or no thanks) to our garbage cans and birdfeeders.

Florida black bears have made a strong comeback since they were placed on the state threatened species list in 1974. There are currently more of these animals around than at any time in the past 100 years and, thanks to their population growth, there’s a good chance they’ll be taken off the list in June. That means people are going to be seeing more and more of them in the near future, and we will have to learn to live with them.

“This is a really interesting time for bears in Florida,” said David Telesco, bear management program coordinator for the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. “I think we’re moving into a situation where a lot of us, especially states in the Southeast, are having a lot of bears.”

Telesco said the population growth has changed the philosophy of conservationists.

“It used to be strictly ‘recover, recover,’ and now it’s, ‘How do we live with the bears we have, and try to reduce the conflicts that people have with them?’,” he said.

Bears have a far-reaching, positive impact on the environment. They’re an “umbrella” species with an important role in the local ecosystem. Their presence supports many other species

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com April–May 2013

35

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editor’s choice and will run away from humans. However, the increased frequency of encounters is beginning to change bears’ behavior. Like alligators, bears lose their natural fear of humans when people feed them and allow them easy access to food. This decreased fear makes the animal more daring, and as a result they put themselves in harm’s way. Although the biggest threat is loss of habitat, the majority of deaths are caused by vehicle collisions.

How humans react to the bears they encounter is crucial in defining spaces for them and keeping both sides safe.

Telesco said that people should be firm with bears that come around looking for snacks.

“If it’s your yard, what you want to do is let the bear know that it’s your yard, and they’re not welcome,” he said. “So if you’re in your house, on your porch or next to your car, you yell at Why can’t a problem them, you beat your horn, bear simply be you bang pots and pans and relocated back to the let them know that they’re wilderness? not welcome. For a wild According to the FWC, once bear, that’s pretty scary.” bears lose their fear of people, On the other hand, they can’t go back to being humans become the intruder wild again. Habituated and when they venture into the food-conditioned bears are bears’ wilderness. So if you often killed, either by vehicle collisions, illegal shooting are out hiking in the woods or by wildlife officers to keep and come across a black bear, the community safe. It’s respect the animal’s space getting harder to find tracts and back out quietly. of wilderness remote enough “If you’re in the woods, to ensure that human-bear that’s their backyard,” contact won’t happen. Besides, Telesco said. “So you back a relocated bear doesn’t know off, you back away, you he’s not supposed to leave have your arms in the air the new area. He may like his and you just talk softly and old neighborhood enough to return to it, or leave an area make sure the bear knows already occupied by other they have an easy way out bears. Unfortunately, if a bear and you’re not threatening isn’t familiar with a new area to them.” he may wind up crossing The Florida black bear a busy road, endangering is a state-protected species, himself and motorists. Even if and it’s a third-degree a bear stays in the relocation felony to kill one. The area, more than likely he’ll penalty is up to five years exhibit the same behavior in jail and/or a $5,000 fine, that got him relocated to begin with. As a result, relocation and the perpetrator will is not an effective solution to have it on his or her record bear conflicts. for life. Also, it’s illegal to feed bears, whether intentionally or not. This can include such seemingly harmless acts as always leaving garbage unsecured.

“The best thing you can do, if you can do it, is to keep that garbage can secure either in the garage or in a sturdy shed until the morning of pickup,” said Telesco. And, if you have pet feeders or bird feeders outside, make sure they aren’t left out overnight, and in some cases, they should be put up during the day.

Bear-proof garbage containers are available in many counties with high bear populations. If you don’t have a public waste management provider, bear-proof containers can be purchased online or through hardware supply stores such as Home Depot and Lowe’s. ec

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

NEW NEWS …

▪ Seagar’s Prime Steaks and Seafood greets spring with an extensive renovation of its dining room, lounge and private dining area.

▪ Restaurant trade publication Nation’s Restaurant News has named Jim ‘N Nick’s Bar-B-Q one of the industry’s “Breakout Brands” of the year.

Homeowners of Seaside have formed the Homeowner’s Collection, a new vacation rental agency with a portfolio of 30 upscale beach homes, cottages and townhomes. The new company also will oversee venue rentals of the Seaside Chapel.

▪ Dustin Cutler, ARAMARK general manager at the Emerald Coast Convention Center, was named General Manager of the Year at the most recent ARAMARK National Conference held in Las Vegas.

Cutler was selected from more than 200 general managers within the ARAMARK Sports and Entertainment Division.

▪ Elephant Walk will return to Sandestin’s enviable Gulf front location under management of seasoned restaurateurs Tom Rice and Wayne Lewis.

Helen Rigdon of Congressman Jeff Miller’s office delivers a letter from Miller in recognition of Oder’s achievements.

CONGRATULATIONS AND KUDOS …

▪ Travel + Leisure magazine readers voted Seaside the “Best Beach for Families” in a 2013 online survey.

▪ Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa received the 2013 WeddingWire Bride’s Choice Award for best ceremony and reception venue in Northwest Florida.

The award was determined by recent reviews and extensive surveys from more than 750,000 WeddingWire newlyweds.

Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa

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▪ To honor a local veteran active in the Destin community, the Destin Area Chamber of Commerce’s Military Affairs Committee created the Destin Area Retired Military Person of the Year Award. During a luncheon, Retired Brigadier Gen. Joe Oder, former president of the Fisher House of the Emerald Coast board of directors, was named the 2012 winner.

▪ EC magazine’s very own Darla Harrison is now royalty. Her husband, Kenny, was named the 2013 Kelly Plantation Chili Cook-off king.

▪ Legendary Marine was named “Dealer of the Year” by Boating Industry Magazine as part of its annual TOP 100 awards program held in Orlando. The Dealer of the Year award is the most prestigious and most highly coveted recognition in North America for marine retailers and is presented annually to only one dealer at an exclusive gathering of the Fred Pace, Managing Partner marine industry elite.

▪ Destin Area Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Shane A. Moody, CCE, may now add FCCP to his signature.

FCCP, given by the Florida Association of Chamber Professionals, stands for Florida Certified Chamber Professional.

NEW FACES …

▪ Conerly, Bowman & Dykes welcomes Monica M. Albarello, Esq. to its team as an associate.

▪ My Vacation Haven has formed a new partnership with NBI Residential Properties, Inc. lead by veteran real estate broker, Joe Bracciale, to expand its services to include real estate sales and longterm vacation rentals.

Albarello

Bracciale

▪ Roger Conner has joined the Blue Marlin Realty Group team.

▪ 723 Whiskey Bravo on 30A welcomes George Barnes as director of operations. ec

Conner

Photos by Shelly Swanger (Seaside Chapel) And Lawrence Davidson (Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & spa) And courtesy Destin Area Chamber of Commerce (Rigdon and Oder), Legendary Marine (Pace), Conerly, Bowman & Dykes (Albarello), Joe Bracciale (self) And Blue Marlin Realty Group (Conner)

▪ The Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries, the only globally recognized organization providing standards for identifying legitimate animal sanctuaries, awarded Verified status to Alaqua Animal Refuge. Verification means that Alaqua meets the criteria of a true equine sanctuary/rescue and is providing humane and responsible care of the animals.

Seaside Chapel

2003-2013

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happenings Events + Culture + Causes

spotlight

The Little Black Party is Big Awareness Builder

Don your pearls, fedoras and Charleston right into that little black number for White Wilson’s roaring ’20s-themed Little Black Dress Party on May 18 at 6 p.m. at the Emerald Coast Convention Center in Fort Walton Beach.

What has become one of the “haute-est” social events of the season was designed to rally the community around an important issue: women’s health. Sadly, there has been a 30 percent decline in preventive health screenings nationwide as a result of the current economy. Studies show early detection is the most effective way to save lives and fight back against breast cancer, osteoporosis and heart disease.

White-Wilson Medical Center has partnered with several local organizations to put on this chic party, featuring fine food, entertainment and a festive live auction, in an effort to increase awareness among Emerald Coast women regarding the importance of preventive health care and early detection.

Tickets to the party are $65 per person. For more information, call (850) 863-8111 or visit fwblittleblackdressparty.com. — Zandra Wolfgram

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com April–May

41

culture

The Art of Living in Ruskin Place

Seaside neighborhood is a blended canvas

By Jennifer Howard

42 April–May 2013

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com

events, bring in live music and raise the retail profile of the district, driven by the widely accepted belief that Ruskin shops capture about 20 percent of the shoppers that visit Seaside’s downtown and beachside stores.

Homeowners who rent their upper two stories to vacationers also weigh in. “It’s an interesting mix of combinations,” says Bailey.

Ruskin Place was intended to be the town’s “hardest working” neighborhood by design.

Founder Robert Davis recalled, “The original idea for Ruskin Place was for a workshop district with artisans living above ground floor workspace dedicated to woodworking, potting, metalwork, etc. The central space would be used to hawk the crafts to Sunday

morning churchgoers. The Chapel, located beyond Ruskin Place was designed to be a beacon, clearly visible from Central Square and drawing people back into Ruskin Place.”

Ruskin Place is geographically in the center of Seaside. According to Glenn Seawell — a Ruskin Place owner and full-time resident, and the self-proclaimed mayor of the new urban town — the neighborhood is a midpoint of the town, with about 40 acres on either side of it. A line from the Seaside Post Office flagpole to the town Chapel, which sits to the north, goes directly down the center of Ruskin Place, dividing the town into equal east and west areas.

From its inception, Ruskin Place was

Photos by scott Holstein and courtesy libby edmonds (musician)

u

nique places often fill the roles of characters in literature and films. Think New Orleans in “A Streetcar Named Desire” or New York City in “Sex and the City.” Ruskin Place, Seaside’s artist colony, played the part of a business district in the 1998 satirical comedy “The Truman Show,” filmed in the new urban town.

In real life, Ruskin Place’s credits include a variety of starring roles: business district, residential neighborhood, vacation destination and event venue. With frequently divergent goals, this combination does not often profitably coexist outside of densely urban places, or shopping districts with traditions that have managed to survive from days gone by. In Seaside, the multiple shades of neighborhood use blend to create a vibrantly colored canvas that attracts residents, artists, businesses and visitors.

“It sets up a pretty interesting dynamic,” said David Bailey, Seaside town manager.

Residents like the quiet aura of the neighborhood, the sense that it’s a shady spot away from the hustle and bustle of beach visitors, as well as the automobile traffic they generate. Gallery owners and artists like to host

envisioned to be a little looser, a bit more creative than the town’s other neighborhoods. Twenty reinforced concrete townhouses, each three stories and some with rooftop terraces, were built one by one, each with its own character. The lots first went on sale in 1991, priced at $50,000 for end sites and $40,000 for interior ones. Parking is in the rear, accessed by alleys on either side of the neighborhood. Roof decks offer a view of the rooftops of Seaside, with the Gulf of Mexico in the distance. “My roof terrace was featured in the New York Times’ Homes Beautiful section in 1996,” Seawell said.

The three-level townhouses that comprise the Seaside neighborhood share an

This stunning English Renaissance-style building designed by Vic Bowman is an anchor in “hardworking” Ruskin Place; The Lawn in Ruskin Place (top) is an inviting pubic green space under rows of shady trees dotted with tables and chairs; Live music and art demonstrations attract visitors to First Friday ArtWalk, now a year round event.

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architectural design known as live/work.

The ground floor was envisioned as a shop of some kind, and the two floors above are residential. The plan is based on the notion that shop owners could live above their workplace or studio. The ground floor entrance is level with the grade of the land, without steps, to encourage walk-in traffic, Seawall said.

For 22 years, he has leased the first-floor shop in his home to Annette Trujillo, owner of Newbill Collection by the Sea gallery.

The entrance to the residence is tucked off to one side, with steps or an elevator to the top levels. “It’s very private,” he said. “I can come and go as needed.”

The center of Ruskin Place is filled with a landscaped park, an event stage and the sculpture-filled Fairy Park, where many a youngster has run among the twisted scrub oaks in pursuit of imaginary creatures, friends or siblings.

The park and stage were created with money “The Truman Show” producers paid for use of the district as a setting. “Much of ‘The Truman Show’ was filmed in Ruskin Place,” said Lori Leath Smith, Seaside’s director of public relations and marketing.

“The homeowners have worked hard to beautify the district. With the living space on the upper floors, they have tried to landscape so that trees are what you see when you look out of the windows.”

A stage sits where star Jim Carrey’s office was located during the filming of the movie.

With what Seawall described as “surroundsound for blankets,” the event plaza cum park has an unusual broadcast system mixed for optimal sound for those seated on blankets on the ground.

Part of Seawell’s portfolio as “mayor” and 44 April–May 2013

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self-described “town character,” is to provide the Saturday music in Fairy Park. He opens his home’s second level doors to the balcony and broadcasts Chris Botti recordings from his sound system. If he forgets or is running a bit late, he is reminded by folks tossing pine cones at his window.

It was the neighborliness of Ruskin Place that first drew in gallery owners Michael and Laura Granberry some eight years ago.

“We lived in Seagrove and used to ride our bikes through Ruskin Place,” Michael said. “The people there were always sitting outside, having parties. They invited us to stop and join them a few times. We became friends, learning the oral history of it. When the opportunity arose, we opened our art gallery there.”

With tongue firmly in cheek, he added, “We like to call it ‘The Shady Side of Seaside.’”

Michael said most of the galleries expanded their offerings a bit during the recent economic downturn, adding in more gift items. The Granberrys were no exception.

The shops came to depend more on events such as the monthly First Friday Art Walks and live music to encourage people to wind their way back to the neighborhood. “We even had a margarita stand to raise money for the Artist Guild,” he said, referring to the organization formed to promote the artists.

The increase in retail activity spurred the artistic entrepreneurs to expand to Seaside’s Downtown district, opening a shop called Art Is Simple that offers creative gifts and fun antiques. Meanwhile, their Ruskin Place shop, Simple Designs, will return to its earlier concept, operating along the lines of a more traditional art gallery. The Granberrys plan to rotate exhibits of regional artisans and

artists on a four- to six-week schedule, showcasing a broad definition of art with everything from sculpture to chocolate and leather.

“Hizzoner” Glenn Seawell said that Seaside homeowners who were recently surveyed cited Ruskin Place Park as their favorite spot in the holiday town. “The future of Ruskin Place park? Leave it alone,” Seawell said. “Just let it age gracefully.”

A bit of pentimento from Ruskin Place’s film star past still fades through into its present day neighborhood canvas. Savvy visitors to the artist colony can spot a sign on one of the homes that reads, “Rubeo Architects.”

No such architectural group exists. The sign is a prop left over from the neighborhood’s more youthful days on the big screen. ec

Photos by scott Holstein and courtesy libby edmonds (Park)

Reminiscent of the French Quarter in New Orleans, there are 20 three-story townhouses originally designed to attract artists who would live on the upper floors and work in studios below — as Laura and Michael Granbury, owners of The Art of Simple, have done.

The sculptures in the growing Fairy Garden, so dubbed by Ruskin Place residents, is just one of the spontaneous creative collaborations that happen here.

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thecalendar +wine & food

april + may

Sandestin Wine Festival April 18–21, 2013 Meet Paula Deen, the “Queen of Southern Cuisine,” at this four-day wine and food celebration that will feature more than 700 domestic and imported wines at The Village of Baytowne Wharf at Sandestin.

The event kicks off on Thursday with wine dinners at various restaurants in The Village. But the most anticipated day is surely Saturday, which features several appearances by Paula Deen, including a Southern-themed wine paired lunch at the Marlin Grill at 11 a.m., a book signing at 1 p.m. and two cooking demos featuring Deen at 2:15 p.m. and 3:45 p.m.

This year the Grand Tasting will be held Friday evening from 5 to 8 p.m. and Saturday from 1 to 5 p.m. And a new champagne brunch is offered on Sunday beginning at 10 a.m. The retail wine tent for purchasing your top wine discoveries will be open throughout the weekend.

Tickets for events are from $38–$195. A portion of proceeds from the Sandestin Wine Festival will go to the Fisher House of the Emerald Coast. To purchase tickets and view a schedule of events, visit sandestinwinefestival.com.

+tournament

April 27–May 4 Tallahassee Tennis Challenger The 14th USTA Tallahassee Tennis Challenger takes place in Tallahassee’s beautiful Forestmeadows Tennis Complex. The tournament will include several former top-50 players and some of the top doubles players in the world, and will benefit the D. Mark Vogter, M.D., Memorial Endowment for Neuro-Intensive Care, the Sharon Ewing Walker Breast Health Center at Tallahassee Memorial HealthCare and the Yealdhall Challenger Tennis Fund at Friends of Our Parks. Passes can be purchased beginning April 8 at the Tallahassee Memorial HealthCare Foundation or The Grey Fox. For more information, a schedule of events and ticket information, visit tallahasseechallenger.com.

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

+festival

Italian Family Festa April 13–14 The third annual Italian family festival is a cultural celebration of all things Italian. The entire family will enjoy authentic food, live entertainment, arts and crafts, children’s activities, a bocce ball tournament and silent auction. Work off some of that yummy pasta and sign up for the Tomato Trot 5K Run/Walk on Saturday at 11 a.m. Enter the raffle to win a six-day Venice vacation valued at $5,700!

Entrance tickets are $5 (children 12 and under are FREE). Proceeds from the event benefit the Florida State University Florence Program. This year’s event takes place at the Tallahassee Auto Museum, 6800 Mahan Dr. in Tallahassee. Free shuttle service is available from Staybridge Suites. The event will take place rain or shine on Saturday from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Sunday from noon to 5 p.m. Bring a lawn chair to watch the fireworks on Saturday night. For more information visit Italianfesta.org.

Photos courtesy Sandestin® Golf and Beach Resort (Wine festival), Copeland Productions (Italian family festa)

Stefanie Warrick, April Margagliano and Michelle Fleming savor the “seeand-be-seen” scene and wine samples at the Sandestin Wine Festival — the “Kentucky Derby” of wine tasting events on the Emerald Coast.

Thursdays through June

18th Annual Concerts in the Park Join the Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation for its outdoor concert series featuring a variety of music from Motown, Modern Country, Broadway and Reggae along with tribute bands for The Eagles and The Doobie Brothers. Bring your favorite chair and picnic or purchase dinner prepared fresh onsite from featured restaurants. Picnic Supper Club available on a limited basis for reserved tables and seating. Admission

is $8 per adult, children under 12 FREE. The Village Green, Mattie Kelly Cultural Arts Village, 4323 Commons Dr. West, Destin. 7 p.m. (850) 650-2226, mattiekellyartsfoundation.org

Fridays through May 24

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

Saturdays through the year

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

Through April 26

ADSO Black & White Show The Arts & Design Society presents a dramatic exhibit in black and white; no other colors allowed! FREE. Art Center, 17 First St. S.E., Fort Walton Beach. Tues–Fri noon–4 p.m., Sat 1–4 p.m. (850) 244-1271, artsdesignsociety.org

April 1–30

ADSO Window Display, Jim Thoreen The drawings and oil painting works of Jim Thoreen will be on display in the studio windows of the Arts & Design Society Art Center, fronting First Street in Fort Walton Beach. Drive by and stop to see these works. FREE. Art Center, 17 First St. S.E., Fort Walton Beach. (850) 244-1271, artsdesignsociety.org

April 1–30

Friends of the Coastal Branch Library Art Exhibit Come view Jamie Conley’s fine art images of the landscape settings of the beaches, coastal dune lakes, nature and beach towns along Scenic Hwy 30A. FREE. The Coastal Branch Library, 437 Greenway EmeraldCoastMagazine.com April–May

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thecalendar Trail, Santa Rosa Beach. Mon 9 a.m.–8 p.m., Tues–Fri, 9 a.m.–5 p.m.

(850) 267-2809, focbl.com

April 1 & 8

Seaside Children’s Theatre Join the Seaside Repertory Theatre for a magical children’s performance. FREE. Seaside Amphitheater. 6:30 pm. Seasiderep.org

April 1–12

Stories by the Sea Join the Seaside Repertory Theatre for a one-of-a-kind storytelling experience that might include you on stage! FREE. Seaside Repertory Theatre, Seaside, Mon–Fri 3:30 p.m., seasiderep.org

April 1–May 25

Sandestin Tennis Clinics Enjoy a high-energy workout as you learn the fundamentals of tennis.

Tennis Stroke Clinic is $25 per person. Sandestin Tennis Center, 9300 Emerald Coast Pkwy. West, Miramar Beach. 9–10 a.m.

Email tennis@sandestin.com to reserve your spot. (850) 267-7060, sandestin.com/tennis

Apr. 1–May 29

Sandestin Junior Tennis Quick Start Participate in junior tennis camps that range from USTA QuickStart Tennis (beginners ages 5 to 10), to high school tournament players as well as future collegiate athletes. Tues and Thu are for children ages 5–8. Mon and Wed for ages 8–10. $15 for resort guests; $10 for locals/ members. Sandestin Tennis Center, 9300 Emerald Coast Pkwy. West, Miramar Beach. Mon–Thu 4–5 p.m. Email your child’s name, age and desired clinic dates to juniortennis@sandestin.com. (850) 267-7060, sandestin.com.

April 2, 4, 9, 11

Sand Sculpting with Sand Odyssey Seaside offers free sand sculpting lessons by sand master Mark Flynn from Sand Odyssey. Learn exciting techniques on how to construct a sculpture that will wow your friends and family. Pick up your wristband from Seaside Beach before the event, as space is limited.

FREE. Seaside Beach, 1 p.m., seasidefl.com

April 5­–7

Bay Breeze Patio Anniversary Celebration Customer appreciation and anniversary event features demonstrations, design experts, discounts, door prizes, entertainment, delectable fare by expert grill masters and a competitive cooking contest. Fun for all who enjoy outdoor living and entertaining.

FREE. Bay Breeze Patio, 32 Forest Dr., Miramar Beach. (1 mile west of Silver Sands Premium Outlets) 10 a.m.–5 p.m. (850) 269-4666, baybreezepatio.com

April 5 & 12

Central Square Cinema Grab your blankets and enjoy a family classic movie under the stars.

Enjoy a great variety of films during this yearlong series. FREE. Seaside Amphitheater, 7:30 p.m., seasidefl.com

April 5 & May 3

If you’re not a fan of our

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48 April–May 2013

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First Friday ArtWalk at Seaside Stroll the galleries and shops of beautiful Ruskin Place while enjoying live music and art demonstrations. FREE. 5–8 p.m. Ruskin Place at Seaside, seasidefl.com

April 6–7

SpringFest at HarborWalk Village Join On the Coast magazine at HarborWalk Village for Destin’s largest outdoor festival just for kids. Hands-on activities such as kite and jewelry making, fish painting and sidewalk murals as well as face painting, eco-friendly activities, and entertainment karaoke contests

and more. FREE. HarborWalk Village, 10 Harbor Blvd., Destin.

Noon–6 p.m. (850) 424-0600, emeraldgrande.com

Sympli the Best

April 6–May 26 (except May 4–5)

Sandestin Mixed Doubles Round Robins Round robin tennis tournaments for all levels include balls, drinks, prizes and court time. Public rate $30, resort guest $25. Sandestin Tennis Center, 9300 Emerald Coast Pkwy. West, Miramar Beach.

Sat at 10 a.m., Sun at 9 a.m. Email tennis@sandestin.com to reserve a spot. (850) 267-7060, sandestin.com/tennis

April 11–14

‘Dirty Rotten Scoundrels’ In this musical Lawrence and Freddie are con men; big-time and small time respectively. They unsuccessfully attempt to work together only to find that this town (on the French Mediterranean coast) ain’t big enough for the two of them. This production is rated PG-13 for mature content. $10 tickets are sold at the school office and at the theater before the show. Fort Walton Beach High School Theater, 400 Hollywood Blvd., Fort Walton Beach. Thu–Sat at 7 p.m. and Sun at 2 p.m. (850) 833-3300

April 12

Then and Now Lecture Series: Judy Debolt, ‘Titanic: 100 Years Later’ Come and hear the stories of those who lost their lives and those who survived. Will the Titanic still be around in another 100 years? These and other stories will be presented in a lively discussion of what actually happened on that dark night long ago. FREE. Indian Temple Mound Museum, 139 Miracle Strip Pkwy. SE, Fort Walton Beach. 6 p.m.

(850) 833-9595

April 13

Exclusive Wine Dinner Benefitting the Taylor Haugen Socialize with friends at a wine tasting dinner at a hot new location — Clemenza’s Uptown Station — for a great cause, The Taylor Haugen Foundation. Tickets are $150 per person. Clemenza’s Uptown Station, 75 Eglin Pkwy., Fort Walton Beach. 6 p.m. (850) 243-0707, taylorhaugen.org

April 13–14

VIP Shopper Club Event Members of the VIP Shopper Club will enjoy exclusive discounts at participating stores and can enter to win a $250 Simon/Premium Outlets Gift Card. The Premium Outlets VIP Shopper Club is free and easy to join — new shoppers can register online at premiumoutlets. com/vip. Existing members can log onto The VIP Lounge to download the VIP Event Saving Sheet and Entry Form. FREE. Silver Sands Premium Outlets, 1052 Emerald Coast Pkwy., Destin.

Mon–Sat 10 a.m.–9 p.m., Sun 10 a.m.–6 p.m. (850) 654-9771, premiumoutlets.com/silversands

BEST WOMEN’S CLOTHING

Simpli Exclusive at Today’s Boutique

April 17–21

Seabreeze Jazz Festival A full lineup of award-winning artists take the stage for a jazzy, all-star weekend featuring the smooth sounds of contemporary jazz. The event attracts more than 20,000 fans from all over the world and offers three days of continuous jazz, a themed dinner cruise and much more. Prices vary by event. Pier Park, 500 West Park Dr., Panama City Beach. A full schedule is online at seabreezejazzfestival.com.

April 19-21

Musical Echoes A Native American flute, art and cultural event honoring Northwest Florida’s rich heritage. Now in its 13th year, the festival has earned a reputation as the premier Native American flute festival in the country. This year’s theme celebrates the wolf. FREE. The Landing, 139 Brooks St., Fort Walton Beach. Opening ceremony is Fri at noon., Sat 10 a.m.–8:30 p.m., Sun 10 a.m.–4 p.m. (850) 243-4405, musicalechoes.org

850.837.5565

Located Across From The Destin Commons, Next to Publix EmeraldCoastMagazine.com April–May

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thecalendar April 20

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

April 20

Pottery Expo Youth Art Competition This art event is designed to enhance pottery and clay art appreciation and is an opportunity for all artists enrolled in a secondary educational institution in Okaloosa and Santa Rosa counties to compete and show their work. Call for entry rules and event time.

Indian Temple Mound Museum, 139 Miracle Strip Pkwy. S.E, Fort Walton Beach. (850) 833-9595

April 24

ADSO Luncheon Featured guest speaker is Destin artist Toni Dineen, a watercolorist specializing in whimsical sea creatures and our local wading birds.

The deadline for reservations is Monday, April 22. $12. Art Center, 17 First St. S.E, Fort Walton Beach. 11:30 a.m. (850) 244-1271, artsdesignsociety.org

FOR ALL OF LIFE’S OCCASIONS FINE ART • EVENTS • COMMERICAL

April 25–28

South Walton Beaches Wine & Food Festival Hosted along South Walton’s picturesque beaches, this new four-day charity wine festival will feature more than 800 wines for tasting, a culinary village filled with wine celebrities from around the world and more. Event admission ranges from $30–$150. Proceeds benefit the Destin Charity Wine Auction Foundation. Grand Boulevard at Sandestin, 600 Grand Blvd., Miramar Beach. Check website for event times. (850) 837-3099 ext. 3, sowalwine.com

Santa Rosa Beach, FL • 850.502.9124 • shellyswangerphotography.com

MEET YOUR MATCH April 27–May 4, 2013 at Forestmeadows Tennis Center in Tallahassee, FL

April 26

JIM THOMAS

Then and Now Lecture Series: Scott Brown, ‘Baseball in Pensacola’ Hear about the exciting history of Pensacola’s favorite pastime.

FREE. Indian Temple Mound Museum, 139 Miracle Strip Pkwy. S.E, Fort Walton Beach. 6 p.m. (850) 833-9595

Brian Baker Winner of the 2012 French Open Wild Card

Attend the final tournament of the Har-Tru USTA Pro Circuit Wild Card Challenge and see the greatest tennis stars face off for a chance to earn a Main Draw Wild Card into the French Open. Bring your family and watch the action on our new stadium Hydro-Court.

For more information about tickets, sponsorships or volunteer opportunities, visit our website or call the TMH Foundation at 431-5389.

TALLAHASSEECHALLENGER.COM

April 26–27

Destin Charity Wine Auction & Patron Dinners The special wine weekend benefits more than a dozen charities helping children in need in Northwest Florida. On Friday, Patron Dinners pair acclaimed chefs with vintners in private homes along the coast. On Saturday, the Reserve Tasting and Auction will feature distinctive wines from internationally acclaimed vintners, poured and paired with food from the area’s top restaurants and local chefs.

The afternoon will culminate in a high-energy and entertaining live auction that will include rare and distinctive wines, spectacular trips and other incredible one-of-a-kind items. $2,000 per couple. Times vary by event. (850) 650-3732, dcwaf.org

April 30–May 31

Inspired by Monet ADSO Art Show All art in this exhibit will reflect the influence and style of Monet. FREE. Art Center, 17 First St. S.E., Fort Walton Beach. Opening reception May 3, 6–8 p.m. Gallery hours: Tues–Fri 12–4 p.m., Sat 1–4 p.m.

(850) 244-1271, artsdesignsociety.org

May 1–31

ADSO Window Display, Loretta Menendian The works of Loretta Menendian, local prize-winning acrylics artist, known for bold strokes and rich colors, will be on display in the studio windows of the Art Center fronting First Street in Fort Walton Beach.

50 April–May 2013

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socialstudies 30A Songwriters Festival January 18–20. 2013 Music was in the air everywhere along 30A as 125 talented singers and songwriters belted out 200 top-notch performances at venues and stages all along the Emerald Coast’s Scenic Highway.

Photos by Rhonda Lynn Murray

Ben Thomas, Sandi Sansom and Mindy Norris

Greg and Robin Crouch

Karen Holland, Rod and Joyce Wilson, and Glen Eisenberg

Shelly Swanger

Wesley Wren and George Nations

Jessica Proffitt and Levin Bracken

Jennifer Steele and Russell Carter

Drew and Yoshi Smith EmeraldCoastMagazine.com April–May

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thecalendar

+walk

Relay for Life April 19, 26 & May 10, 17–18 The journey to end cancer starts with a single step. The American Cancer Society invites you to take that step by joining the global Relay For Life movement. When you walk to end cancer at a Relay event, it’s your opportunity to not only honor cancer survivors and remember loved ones lost, but also to raise awareness about what we can do to stay well from cancer and raise money to help fuel the world’s largest walk to end cancer. Join your friends, neighbors and cancer survivors in a celebration of hope and participate in one of the local relay walks. There are several events across the Emerald Coast. April 19 (Navarre High School); April 26 (Choctawhatchee High School in Fort Walton Beach). Overnight events are May 10–11 (Washington High School, Pensacola) and May 17–18 (Grand Boulevard at Sandestin).

For more information, call Michelle Wright at (850) 244-3813, ext. 3554. Visit relayforlife.org to find details and kick off times for the event nearest you.

Drive by and stop to see these works. FREE. Art Center, 17 First St. S.E., Fort Walton Beach. (850) 244-1271, artsdesignsociety.org

May 1–31

Friends of the Coastal Branch Library Art Exhibit Come view children’s art from various schools in Walton County. More than 1,300 students from 14 Walton County schools are listening to and visually interpreting works by French composer, Camille Saint-Saens. FREE. The Coastal Branch Library, 437 Greenway Trail, Santa Rosa Beach. Mon 9 a.m.–8 p.m., Tues–Fri, 9 a.m.–5 p.m.

(850) 267-2809, focbl.com

2012

Military Appreciation Month Military members and their families are invited to show their I.D. cards at the Information Center to receive a free VIP Coupon Book and exclusive discount flyer listing special store offers. FREE. Silver Sands Premium Outlets, 10562 Emerald Coast Pkwy, Destin. Mon–Sat 10 a.m.–9p.m., Sun 10 a.m.–6 p.m. (850) 654-9771, premiumoutlets. com/silversands

May 3

‘The Ugly Duckling and The Tortoise and the Hare’ Northwest Florida Ballet presents a new production created by America’s Got Talent finalist Light Wire Theater. Fresh on the heels of

#MM10776

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Photo courtesy Kay Phelan

May 1–31

socialstudies 10th Annual Mardi Gras Dog Parade February 10, 2013. The one annual event everyone is itching to attend each year has got to be the annual Mardi Gras Dog Parade in The Village of Baytowne Wharf at Sandestin. This year nearly 50 hopefuls promenaded their preened pooches in costumes celebrating their favorite sports teams. The judges had a “ruff” time, but finally chose three winners. Photos by Zandra Wolfgram

Bruce Varner and friend win Best Walkers

Kellie Momenzade and her LSU Krewe win Best Group

Gary Bowman and Valerie Terschluse

Seagar’s Grand Reopening Cocktail Party February 19, 2013. Party goers to this soiree at Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa for Seagar’s Prime Steaks and Seafood were treated to cocktails, live music and a tasty sneak peek sampling of a brand new restaurant menu featuring the talents of Chef Dan Vargo. Photos by Kay Phelan

Stacey and Mike Brady

Robert and Carolyn Kamm, Brenda and Frank Flautt

Gary Brielmayer and Dawn Moliterno

Tom Becnel, Kitty Whitney and Brian Rowland EmeraldCoastMagazine.com April–May

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thecalendar their break-out success, the creators of “Corbian the Dinosaur” bring their use of cutting-edge technology, electroluminescent puppetry and dance to another unforgettable theatrical experience. $28 for adults, $14 for children. Mattie Kelly Arts Center, 100 College Blvd., Niceville. 7:30 p.m. (850) 729-6000, mattiekellyartscenter.org

May 3–5

Sandestin 7.5 Ladies Combo & 4.5 Ladies Tennis Challenge This three-night weekend tennis package includes accommodations, welcoming gifts, luncheon, team matches throughout the weekend, discounts in Sandestin’s Tennis Shop, team photos and awards to finalists. Call for package prices and event times. Sandestin Tennis Center, 9300 Emerald Coast Pkwy. West, Miramar Beach.

Email tennis@sandestin.com to reserve your spot. (850) 267-7114, sandestin.com/tennis

May 4

Cinco de Mayo Festival Cantina Laredo Gourmet Mexican Food presents its annual familyfriendly Cinco de Mayo celebration. Enjoy live entertainment, dancing, face-painting, crafts, door prizes, food, drinks and displays.

FREE. Grand Park in Grand Boulevard at Sandestin, 600 Grand Blvd., Miramar Beach. 2–11 p.m. (850) 654-5649, grandboulevard.com

May 4, 11, 18

Jazz on the Lawn Each weekend join your friends and neighbors as we present an eclectic group of jazz artists ready to delight you with each and every musical note. There’s no better way to spend a Saturday afternoon!

FREE. Seaside Amphitheater, 5 p.m., seasidefl.com

May 5 BEST BEACHWEAR RETAILER & LOCALLY OWNED RETAILER

The Art of Swimwear Finding the perfect swimsuit is easy once you find the perfect store. You receive personalized service to solve all of your figure problems. We carry over 10,000 swimsuits representing over 50 of the most famous brands. Come to Sporty Lady for the FIT, return for the service.

SPORTY LADY

Shoppes at Paradise Key (West of Destin Commons/Next to Publix) (850) 837-6763 www.sportylady.com

INDIVIDUAL SOLUTIONS (Mix & Match Separates) Tops AA - G Bottoms 4 - 20 Juniors XS - DD Plus Sizes 16W - 32W 54 April–May 2013

Missy 4 - 20 Plus Sizes to 32W Long Torso & Bra-sized Mastectomy Girls & Pre-Teen

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com

Cinco de Mayo Spring Fest A vibrant celebration of Latin music, food, dance and more. Kids will enjoy activities and crafts. FREE. HarborWalk Village, 10 Harbor Blvd., Destin. 4 p.m. (850) 424-0600, emeraldgrande.com

May 6, 13, 20, 27

Seaside Children’s Theatre Join the Seaside Repertory Theatre for a magical children’s performance. FREE. Seaside Amphitheater. 6:30 pm., seasiderep.org

May 10

The Premiere Golf Tournament Join Children’s Volunteer Health Network for a fun golf tournament followed by a Low Country Shrimp Boil at the Burnt Pine Club House. $1,500 per team until April 10; $1,800 per team April 11–May 10.

Burnt Pine Golf Club at Sandestin, 9300 Emerald Coast Pkwy. West, Miramar Beach. 8 a.m. registration and breakfast, 9 a.m. tee off.

(850) 622-3200, cvhngolf.com

May 10–12

25th Annual ArtsQuest Fine Arts & Music Festival Meet more than 100 artists from across the country and ask them about their paintings, poster art, sculpture, pottery, mixed media, jewelry, paper and fabric art and more. Enjoy great food, live music, art demos and fun children’s activities — all in picturesque Seaside.

For a detailed schedule of the weekend’s art events, contact the Cultural Arts Association. FREE. The Town of WaterColor on 30A. Fri 4 p.m.–7 p.m.; Sat 11 a.m.–7 p.m.; Sun 11a.m.–5 p.m. (850) 622-5970, CuturalArtsAssociation.com

May 12

Mother’s Day Brunch Treat mom to a delicious buffet brunch with decadent desserts.

Little ones can enjoy their own kids’ buffet. Reservations recommended. Call for prices. Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa, 4000 Sandestin Blvd. South, Miramar Beach. 11:30 a.m.–3 p.m.

(850) 267-9500 ext. 44, sandestinbeachhilton.com/events

socialstudies

Dina Moriarty and Betty Sandage

Destin Desserts March 1, 2013. Girl Scouts of the Florida Panhandle invited local chefs and bakers to reinvent America’s favorite dessert — the Girl Scout cookie! The competition resulted in a number of tasty confection creations (including the winning treat concocted by Dewey Destin’s Chef Jim Shirah) sampled at a party at the Emerald Grande in HaborWalk Village. Photos by Kay Phelan

William Beem, Mark Erickson and Dwight Allen

Michelle Kyser and Nicole Scott Renee Lozano, Gretchen Erickson and Lisa Schomburg

Marie Gilison and Carol Frank

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thecalendar May 12

EUROPEAN BREAKFAST

Saturday 8am to noon | Sunday 8am to 1pm Reservations Encouraged 850.243.0707

UPTOWN STATION | 75 EGLIN PARKWAY | FORT WALTON BEACH

ANTHONY’S SCREEN Professional Installation Service

Solaris Mother’s Day Lunch Cruise Give Mom a special and memorable Mother’s Day gift to share with the entire family: a relaxing lunch cruise aboard SunQuest Cruise’s luxury Solaris yacht. Cruise along the picturesque Choctawhatchee Bay and enjoy fresh, chef-prepared cuisine and entertainment. Adults $55, children $35, infants free. Baytowne Marina at Sandestin, 9300 Emerald Coast Pkwy. West, Miramar Beach. 1–3 p.m. (850) 650-2519, sunquestcruises.com

May 17–19

Sandestin Beach Bicycle Tour Cyclists of all levels are welcome to this scenic bike ride through the Emerald Coast that includes a rest stop in charming Seaside. $40 until Apr. 15, then $50 per person. Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort, 9300 Highway 98 West, Miramar Beach. Registration Fri 4–7 p.m. at Robin’s Bikes and Fitness, pre-tour instructions Sat at 7:30 a.m. with 30- and 60-mile rides at 8 a.m., post-ride activities 10 a.m.–3 p.m.; 15-mile ride pre-tour instructions at 7:30 a.m. Sun, ride starts at 8 a.m. (850) 267-6168, sandestinbicycletour.com

May 18–19

850.678.2865 Screws

for a FREE Estimate

MATERIAL & LABOR 10YR WARRANTY

6th Annual Okaloosa Arts Alliance Family Fun Arts Fest The 6th annual Family Fun Arts Fest will be hosted by HarborWalk Village this year to benefit the Okaloosa Arts Alliance (OAA). Enjoy live entertainment, original arts and crafts from numerous vendors, free kids’ activities, food, drink and excitement for all ages. FREE. HarborWalk Village, 10 Harbor Blvd., Destin. 10 a.m.–5 p.m.

(850) 424-0600, emeraldgrande.com

May 25

Northwest Florida Ballet Student Concert Northwest Florida Ballet students perform a spring production. $12 adults, $6 children 12 and under. Mattie Kelly Arts Center, 100 College Blvd., Niceville. 2 p.m. (850) 664-7787

May 25–26

Memorial Day Concert Celebration Kick off the summer with free concerts and fun on the Destin Harbor.

Enjoy a vibrant fireworks display over the Destin Harbor after Sunday night’s concert. FREE. HarborWalk Village, 10 Harbor Blvd., Destin.

7–9 p.m. (850) 424-0600, emeraldgrande.com

May 25–27

Memorial Day Celebration The Village of Baytowne Wharf Childrens activities beginning at 6 p.m. followed by live bands on the Events Plaza stage from 7–9 p.m. each night. On Sunday watch the sky above the lagoon light up with a patriotic fireworks show at 9:15 p.m. On Monday, the Village will host a Memorial Day program right before sunset, presented by Sandestin veterans, including a special brass band performance. FREE. The Village of Baytowne Wharf at Sandestin, 9300 Emerald Coast Pkwy. West, Miramar Beach.

(866) 912-3224, sandestin.com/events

May 29

ADSO Luncheon Hanna Joensuu, a photographer with a passion for printmaking, will present a brief introduction to various printmaking techniques in a slide show featuring such famous artists as Picasso and Matisse. $12. Art Center, 17 First St. S.E., Fort Walton Beach. 11:30 a.m.

(850) 244-1271, artsdesignsociety.org

May 30

Red, White and Blue Hero Reunion Celebration The Red, White and Blue Celebration weekly honors a local hero. This week’s celebration is a special reunion of heroes honored over the past years. Enjoy live entertainment, free kids’ crafts and face painting, a WWII replica flyover and fireworks display over the Destin Harbor. FREE. HarborWalk Village, 10 Harbor Blvd., Destin. 6 p.m.

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2013

THE COMPETITION IS

BACK!

LOVE YOUR STYLIST? ADORE YOUR SALON? Nominate your salon to compete for the honor of being named Top Salon of the Emerald Coast.

At the Top Salon celebration, the region’s best salons will be invited to provide a head-to-toe makeover, which will be revealed at this exciting event. The stunning results will be judged in a runway show. The competition will be fierce, but only one establishment will earn the title.

The winning salon will receive a yearlong ad campaign developed by Rowland Publishing in EC Magazine. Additionally, a portion of the event proceeds will benefit the winner’s charity of choice.

Nominations must be received between May 1 and June 15 at emeraldcoastmagazine.com EmeraldCoastMagazine.com April–May

57

Bright Futures

Meet the Emerald Coast’s rising student super stars

In a matter of days, hundreds of thousands of Florida kids will be able to sing out loud and proud the lyrics to Alice Cooper’s 1972 hit “School’s Out.” The rocker sings, “School’s out for summer … school’s out forever.” Not so fast, Cooper. According to a report filed by the Florida Department of Education in November, the four-year high school graduation rate for the class of 2012 is 74.5 percent, which reflects a 3.9 percentage point jump — the highest in nearly a decade. Kids are staying in school and nearly 70 percent of them continue on to college.

US News & World Report recently reviewed 21,776 U.S. public high schools and selected 127 Florida schools as the best in the nation. Several schools in Okaloosa County — which ranks 6th in the state — made the list, and still more received honorable mentions.

Many Emerald Coast students are not only making headlines and making the grade, but they are making a difference by volunteering, leading clubs and setting the example. With each exam, each win, each day they decide to exceed their efforts from the day before — they are becoming our future leaders.

Whether their “thing” is acting, scoring, leading, inventing or serving, these students are clearly super stars on the rise. EC Magazine caught up with five stellar students throughout Okaloosa County and chatted with them in bagel shops, backstage at theaters and even the principal’s office to find out what makes them shine so bright.

Get some paper … you just might want to take some notes!

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Photo By Kansas Pitts Photography

By Zandra Wolfgram and Laura Bradley

ß

Alex Wagner

Kyle Saleeby

Brittany Brown

Christy Allen

Helena Whittaker

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The Science of Success ß

Kyle Saleeby

Not many high school students have left the country — and even fewer have left the country to participate in a science conference with about 800 of the world’s top scientific minds. But that is precisely what Kyle Saleeby did in his sophomore year at Niceville High School.

A presentation he gave as a student representative of the Natural Geography In-Shore Area (NaGISA) team got the attention of the Census of Marine Life in London, which led to a trip to England.

“It was a really awesome experience for me,” Saleeby recalls. “The program is amazing. It teaches so much about science and research, and your research is actually used in real life.”

NaGISA is an international marine biodiversity study of the world’s coastline — one of 14 current field projects of the Census of Marine Life (CoML). Niceville High School boasts the first-ever team to be run with high school student researchers. The program started as an experimental effort to determine whether or not a high school could amass the resources and cultivate the expertise needed to contribute to the international science community. The school and students like Saleeby have provided a clear answer, and now NaGISA programs have opened in two other schools on North Florida’s coast.

Saleeby also enjoys competing in science fairs and has participated every year since sixth grade. His projects took him to the Intel International Science and Engineering Fair, the largest international science fair held in the U.S., as well as ISWEEEP, the International Sustainable World Energy Engineering Environment Project Olympiad.

His NaGISA project, which is a three-year study he continues to this day, is a clean electrical hydropower source — a water wheel type device that can out-produce any other source of clean electrical energy by the same amount of space used.

This year, he created a hydrolysis apparatus designed to produce hydrogen and chlorine gas. By wiring it to his water wheel he effectively is using one renewable energy source to produce another — one that could be used to power cars. Since last year this science wiz kid has also been working on a device that can stop a car as it slides out of control on ice and other slick surfaces in under five seconds.

Saleeby won first place in chemistry, along with a few special awards, at the regional science fair this year, and was selected to attend the international science fair in Phoenix in May. With such accomplishments, it comes as no surprise that Saleeby was voted Most Likely to Succeed this year by his peers. Given his recent acceptance to Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) and selection for one of the Coca-Cola scholarships, it appears that his classmates are right on the money.

Yearbook stats: NaGISA, science fair, scuba diving

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Photo By Kansas Pitts Photography

Niceville High School senior — 3.9 GPA

We know super students don’t have too many failures, but can you remember one?

Whenever you’re working with electronics, make sure they’re unplugged.

Best advice from a teacher: If anyone ever says you can’t do something, do it just because they said you can’t.

Study tip: You have to enjoy what you’re doing.

You don’t have to like it, but you have to find a way to enjoy it.

Useless talent: Some people can blow smoke rings … I can blow air bubble rings under water while scuba diving.

Kyle is photographed at Stallworth Preserve near the coastline he's studied so well.

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Favorite quote: Love the art in yourself, not yourself in the art.

Study tip: Don’t cram.

Study for a reasonable amount of time at a time.

I wish someone told me sooner to … Question things. Don’t always assume that everything is at face value, always search a little deeper — and that goes for school and relationships.

Favorite word: Luminosity Best song for my life songtrack: “We Are the Champions” by Queen

We find Helena where she shines best, center stage at Fort Walton Beach High School's theater.

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A Dramatic Exit ß

Helena Whittaker

As a sixth grader, Helena Whittaker didn’t have many friends, her grades were average and nothing much motivated her. Her mom, Christa Whittaker — the head of the theater program at Fort Walton Beach High School — suggested she try out the Oz Theater Company (for kids). And the rest is Fort Walton Beach High School theater history.

Once the theater bug bit this aspiring dramatic actress, everything changed. She made deep connections with friends, who are as “weird and crazy” as she is, her grades shot up and she discovered a role she was born to play — herself.

Now a senior with a lead in the school’s spring musical, (“Dirty Rotten Scoundrels”), the 17-year-old Fort Walton Beach resident is co-writer/director for “Shakespeare 2.0,” a comedy that earned a Critic’s Choice Award at the Florida Thespian competition this year. Though still a work in progress, the play is a hit that other high schools are clamoring to stage.

At this year's Florida Theater Conference, Whittaker was named Best Actress and given a spot in the All Star Cast for her performance in "Kosher Lutherans," which also won an award for Best One Act Play — another first not only for the talented teen, but for her high school as well. In March, she and seven and other seniors took the show on the road, Photo By Scott Holstein

Fort Walton Beach High School Senior — 3.69 GPA

performing it on an even bigger stage, so to speak, at the Southeastern Theater Conference.

Though she could be a stand-in for actress Jennifer Lawrence, this performer doesn’t reserve her talents exclusively for the stage. She also is a member of the Voices of Valhalla, the advanced school choir, and the National Honor Society.

“This is best year of high school I’ve ever had,” she spouts as she pulls over a chair and sets it front of a wardrobe rack filled with colorful costumes backstage at the high school’s theater.

Though not her motivation, the awards and notoriety are a welcome reward for this Broadway-bound hopeful who has clearly become a theater devotee. “When someone says, ‘Hey, you were really good in that show,’ it feels really good to be recognized for something you’ve worked hard at. It’s more than just memorizing lines. It’s becoming another person, being on stage and then showing that to other people.

And what teenage girl doesn’t like to be complimented on something?” she asks as her delicate, white hand pulls a paint-splattered red fleece snugly over her shoulder.

The countless hours Whittaker spent perfecting her three-minute audition paid off, landing her a spot in the Bachelor of Fine Arts program at University of Central Florida, where she hopes to eagerly delve into plumb roles and lifelong friendships. “Something about having a shared passion with people who are like-minded brings you together. And I think that is hard to find in high school,” Whittaker says in a clear, articulate voice — one, unmistakably, her own.

Yearbook stats: Voices of Valhalla (choir), National Honor Society, Broadway Cares Equity Fights AIDS organizer, Florida State Thespians District representative

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Favorite quote: Isaiah 40:31 – “ … but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.”

Who should give your commencement address?

I really respect someone like Tim Tebow who puts such belief, strength and determination into everything he does (on and off the field) and would love to meet him one day. I’d definitely be inspired by his words at my graduation.

Best advice from a teacher: Never give up.

Words of wisdom you wish you’d known sooner: Attitude is everything.

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Christy's dreams will soon take flight as swiftly as this F-35 Lightning II pictured here inside a hangar at the 33d Fighter Wing.

The Ace ß

Christy Allen

When most people imagine a masterful multitasking student, they often picture a bogged-down teen with a full course load and a couple of clubs … maybe a sports team, too. If that is a master, Christy Allen is a guru. With two sports and a whole host of clubs under her belt, it was a wonder Allen had time to speak to us at all — and even more remarkable how energetic and cheerful she was, despite her crazy workload.

“There is no procrastination,” she says with a laugh. “I have this planner I keep, and I write down every single thing in it. I put stuff in my phone to remind me when things are.

It’s like in tennis. Keep your eye on the ball.”

Easier said than done, most would think, but Allen’s ambition drives her to constantly do what most would deem too difficult. She founded a club called Girls Outdoors at Rocky Bayou, serving as its president for a while. The club was for girls to meet up and socialize while doing outdoor activities (such as spelunking and canoeing). “I got to get to know all the girls, and watch them gain more self-confidence as they overcame situations. It was really cool,” Allen remembers.

If a club wasn’t enough, Allen also founded her school’s tennis team over the course of a year, which brought home a second place district finish — with her as its No. 1 player.

Allen’s goals are coming to fruition. She was accepted to the United States Air Force Academy in Colorado, where she hopes to play on the tennis team. Both of Allen’s parents went to the Academy, and her mother was also on the tennis team. Her father’s job as a pilot led Allen’s family around the world, until they settled in Niceville, where Allen has attended Rocky Bayou Christian School since second grade. An outgoing girl by nature, she thrived when they moved and enjoyed making new friends. But she also treasured getting to attend a small school where she has made such great friends and gotten to know the faculty so well as they teach both academics and the biblical perspective. To Allen, Rocky Bayou is like a second family.

Photo By Kansas Pitts Photography

Rocky Bayou Christian School Senior — GPA 4.0

Yearbook stats: Tennis, volleyball, National Beta Club Honor Society, Mu Alpha Theta, Thespian Society, student government, Bible Quiz Team, Spanish Club, Shakespeare Club, Academic Team, Engineering Team

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The Queen of the Courts

Brittany Brown

The Choctaw Indians were up by one point in the first overtime and Brittany Brown, a.k.a.

“Rookie,” called a time out. The first free throw went in to tie the game, but the second one didn’t and the game began to separate the women from the girls in a second overtime. There was a tussle that landed Brown on the ground, grabbing for the ball. She called a timeout before realizing it was their last, a “rookie mistake,” she says while shaking her head. The pretty, dark-eyed point guard was devastated, and her emotions were winning over when a teammate came up to her and said, “This is where great players are determined.” It was all Brown needed to hear.

She headed back onto the court to block a three-pointer, the buzzer sounded and the Indians chopped down Pine Forest High School — their toughest rival.

Pine Forest High fell again to Choctaw this year in an even more dramatic fashion to become the Indians 29th victory of the season. Local sports writer, Brandon Walker, called it “a come-from-behind 61–60 nailbiter.” Walker had one word for Brown’s performance: “incredible.” In his coverage of the game, he wrote: “In 10 years … it’s the best game I’ve ever seen. Unbelievable.”

“I don’t like to lose,” Brown says quietly, shifting in her chair in the conference room next to the principal’s office at Choctawhatchee High School Senior — 3.6 GPA

Yearbook stats: LINKS (leadership club), track, Homecoming Court — Queen

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Choctawhatchee High School. For nearly the entire 2012-13 season, the only thing this senior was in danger of losing was her nickname. Thanks to leadership training, solid coaching/parenting (both of her parents coach at her school) and Brown’s natural athletic talent, this undefeated high school girl’s team made it to the state championships, and Brown was named Northwest Florida Daily News New Player of the Year for the second season in a row. She was also named a 2013 McDonald's All-American finalist, a prestigious honor reserved for a select few players across the country.

The basketball court isn’t the only place where Brown’s talent and charisma reign supreme. She is active in a student leadership club called LINKS, runs track and was crowned Homecoming Queen.

“She’s a student that fits in with every group,” says Choctaw Principal Cindy Gates. The senior is held in such high regard with her peers that one of the finalists, who was also Miss CHS, gave Brown her vote — and a “big, poofy white gown” she insisted Brown wear to the celebration. “I think a lot of kids voted for me just to see me in a dress!” Brown now says, laughing.

That wasn’t the last time Brown was in the spotlight or filled up a gym. In November, friends, family, fellow students — and even local media — came to watch her “sign” with Florida State University in an emotional ceremony filled with cards, gifts, balloons, flowers and a big cake. “It was emotional. I was crying. People in the stands were crying. It was really good,” she remembers.

Photo By Kansas Pitts Photography

ß

Brittany’s winning spirit will always give her the “home court advantage” in life.

Life philosophy: Try not to worry about what other people think, and be what you want to be.

Who’s your favorite athlete? Lebron James has the same situation I have. He was worried about impressing everyone when he was getting hype. When he stopped worrying about it, he ended up winning the championship, and that’s what I hope for.

Fitness tip: Work out like it’s your last every time.

Before every game I always … pray.

Words of wisdom I wish I had learned sooner: Manage your time wisely.

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Favorite political figure: This is easy. George Washington.

He was the whole package. I think I should model myself after him, because he really wanted to find the truth. He was all about service and giving back. And he was so humble. He was young, and he challenged himself constantly.

Study tip: Read ahead and cover the material before you come to class.

Biggest blunder: Forgetting to show up at a meeting I scheduled.

Three things you would have on a deserted island: The Rosary, a water purifier and a Frisbee named something other than Wilson.

Your yearbook will list you as Most Likely To … fall for a prank!

Fav quote: “Ask not what your country can do for you; ask what you can do for your country.”

— John F. Kennedy

We salute Alex for his sense of duty, which will take him far beyond the halls of the Collegiate High School at Northwest Florida State College.

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A Sense of Service ß

Alex Wagner

What do George Washington, John F. Kennedy and Alex Wagner have in common?

They all have demonstrated an extraordinary sense of service. But Wagner is one up on the two political figures he most admires — they probably didn’t crush a game of Ultimate Frisbee in between college classes as a high school senior.

Wagner is reminiscent of Richie Cunningham from “Happy Days.” He’s clean-cut, polite, well spoken with an easy smile. Immediately you know he’s an earnest good guy. This is his senior year at the Collegiate High School at Northwest Florida State College, a public charter school that consistently ranks among the top high schools in Florida. It enables 10th, 11th and 12th grade students to simultaneously earn both a standard high school diploma and a two-year college degree or transferable college credits.

The Niceville teen says he’s “not one for titles,” which is good, because as a vice commander of JROTC (Junior Reserve Officers’ Training Corps), president of student government and member of the varsity tennis team, there are nearly too many to list here. And that is just what this business major does Photo By Scott Holstein

Collegiate High School at Northwest Florida State College Senior — 3.82 GPA

that is related to school. After the bell rings, his community service begins, and that list is just as long and just as impressive.

In fact, since he started high school he has logged 950 volunteer hours stocking inventory at local hospitals, coaching tennis and playing bass guitar in the church youth band.

“I’m really grateful for the opportunity to challenge myself in such a unique way,” Wagner says of his volunteer roles. “You can change someone’s life with an organization.

I think that concept is aligned with changing your stars.”

Having the courage to welcome change is a theme throughout Wagner’s high school career that clearly defines him. “I don’t consider myself a stellar student. I just decided to take opportunities that were given to me and run with them. I think everyone has that option. The difference is what you do with it,” he says.

Wagner unselfishly credits his school, the faculty, his parents and his church for his success. But his deep sense of duty is undeniable. The business major says he would like to manage a hospital one day, but his first goal is to go into the U.S. Air Force.

“I’ve always felt a calling to serve and do something more than myself. I think it’s a testament to who you are as a person to give everything to a nation. There is something about serving … about doing something greater than yourself that I’m really attracted to,” he says. ec

Yearbook stats: JROTC, Student Government Association (SGA), tennis, track, racquetball, Ultimate Frisbee, bass guitar, drums

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Photos Courtesy of Sandestin Golf and beach resort

The Links Course, designed by Tom Jackson, was the first of four championship golf clubs to open in Sandestin. The first foursome played on Thanksgiving Day in 1973.

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Sandestin is

40!

A snapshot of the res ort’s co lo

rful, storied past

To start at the beginning, we could venture back to the 17th century, when Spanish explorers discovered what is now the Destin Pass, or the 18th century when — as legend has it — pirates ran amuck.

Or, we could start in middle of the 19th century, when Capt. Leonard Destin landed his ship on the Emerald Coast shores to found what is now known as The World’s Luckiest Fishing Village. We could also start in the 1930s, when the attorney general of Massachusetts purchased some land in the middle of nowhere along the Gulf of Mexico.

But we have another beginning in mind: 1973.

After 40 (official) years, it’s no surprise that the largest resort (2,400 acres) to be situated on Florida’s Gulf Coast, and the only resort to lay claim to waterfront access to both the beach and bay, has one of the most interesting pasts.

In celebration of Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort’s anniversary, we take a look back at some of the highlights and happenings during its four-decade history.

During that time, Sandestin solidified its place as one of the premier resorts in the Southeast — and we cannot wait to see what the next 40 years will bring.

By Zandra Wolfgram

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The Land of Plenty ▪ Robert Tyng Bushnell, the Republican Attorney General of Massachusetts, purchased land that is now Sandestin in 1930 for the purpose of raising crops and livestock.

▪ During World War II, the U.S. government used the land to test captured German U-2 Buzz bombs. Sandestin’s beach area, adjacent to FourMile Village, is where the very first military rocket testing in the nation took place. You can still find intact cement bunkers and launch sites on or near the beach.

▪ Around 1960, Walt Disney reportedly looked at the area as a possible site for a theme park before eventually deciding on Orlando for his project called Disney World.

▪ During the 1970s owners of the Indianapolis Speedway offer to purchase parcels of the land for a “seaside racetrack.” The deal got all the way to the closing table before Mrs. Coffeen refused to sell.

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Photos Courtesy of Sandestin Golf and beach resort

▪ The Coffeen family sold the land to Winthrop Rockefeller of Little Rock, Ark., in the 1950s. He envisioned a hightoned beach community between the bay and the Gulf to be named Forest by the Sea. After being elected governor of Arkansas in 1966, he changed his plans, but his vision was realized under a new name less than a decade later.

Sandestin

is 40!

In 40 years, one thing has remained the same at Sandestin … the appeal of the resort community's sugar-white sand beaches.

1970s » A ground-breaking ceremony and the first master plan is unveiled » The first foursome plays The Links Course on Thanksgiving Day » Sandestin Beach Resort (no golf in the name just yet) opens in May 1976 under the management of Chase Manhattan Trust » The first homeowners (Walter “Bud” and Carol Lohman and Betty and John Main) live in a bayside neighborhood called Augusta Village

» Baytowne Golf Club, the Bayside Inn, Baytowne Marina, Elephant Walk restaurant, The Market and Beachside II are completed » The Elephant Walk Triathlon (now Sandestin Triathlon) is held for the first time in 1987

1980s » P eter Bos, under the name Sandestin Corp., acquires nearly all land parcels from Lakeland BV » The resort builds a water tower » Negotiations are completed for the sale of Hilton Hotel » Sandestin stages The Beach Boys in a “beach party” concert attended by 12,000

1990s » Sandestin becomes a wholly-owned subsidiary of Sime Darby Berhad, a Southeast Asia conglomerate headquartered in Malaysia » Burnt Pine Golf Club, designed by Rees Jones, opens » Intrawest Corporation, the leading developer and operator of mountain resorts, acquires Sandestin

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Sandestin

is 40!

2000s

2010s

» The Raven Golf Club, The Village of Baytowne Wharf, The Baytowne Conference Center, The Grand Sandestin open

» Local developer Tom Becnel acquires Sandestin and forms Sandestin Investments, LLC

» The Elephant Walk becomes Finz restaurant

In recent years Sandestin has filled an area called the Adventure Zone with a number of kid-friendly attractions and activities such as the Baytowne Zipline (pictured) making it one of the most popular resort destinations on the Emerald Coast for both local and visiting families.

» BP (Deepwater Horizon) Oil Spill in the Gulf of Mexico occurs April 20, 2010 » In 2012, Done Deal breaks record at 8th annual Emerald Coast Blue Marlin Classic with a blue marlin weighing 783.6 lbs

» Grand Boulevard at Sandestin opens in 2003 » Intrawest Corporation is purchased by Fortress Investment Group in 2006

» Guinness Book of World Records confirms the largest fishing lure is hung at Baytowne Marina » The Bayside Inn is renovated into LeCiel at Sandestin

» Luau, a mid-rise condo, opens on the beachside in 2006 » The Emerald Coast Blue Marlin Classic fishing tournament offers $371,250 in cash awards (today, the purse is more than $1,500,000)

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» A free resort-wide shuttle service between Sandestin, Grand Boulevard and the Hilton is launched » Elephant Walk returns to its stomping ground on the beach under the management of Tom Rice and Wayne Lewis, who operate the Marlin Grill

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com

Photos by Scott Holstein (Largest Lure and Adventure Lane) and Courtesy of Sandestin Golf and beach resort

» Residence Inn Sandestin

by Marriott and Courtyard Sandestin

by Marriott open in partnership with the Howard Group

» Sandestin celebrates the 25th annual Sandestin Wine Festival

What’s in a Name?

Sandestin (1970s) Sandestin Beach Resort (1980s) Sandestin Beach and Golf Resort (1990s) Sandestin Resort (1993–96) The Resort at Sandestin (1996–99) Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort (1999–present)

Marketing Campaign Taglines

1970s “The First Resort” Early 1980s “Nothing Comes Close But the Gulf” Late 1980s “Jewel of the Emerald Coast” Early 1990s “No matter how long you stay, it’s never enough” Mid-1990s “Destination of a Lifetime” Late 1990s “Come Outside and Play” 1999 “Same Time, Next Year” 2000s “In Our World”

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2012

Best Dermatology Practice B on the Emerald Coast

Meet Our Providers David C. Adams MD, FAAD, FACMS

Brittain F. Kulow MD, FAAD

Katherine James PA-C

Nicholas G. Papajohn MD, FAAD

Danielle Horton PA-C

Elizabeth Clark MD, FAAD

Larry Weidell PA-C

We are proud to announce that Dr. Elizabeth A. Clark (known previously as Dr. Liz Milum) will be joining Coastal Skin Surgery & Dermatology at our new office in Niceville/Bluewater Bay! She welcomes ALL past and new patients to her practice starting April 8th!

COME SEE US AND EXPERIENCE WHY WE WERE VOTED BEST! IT’S YOUR SKIN … IT’S YOUR CHOICE … MAKE IT COUNT! Specializing in all aspects of Surgical, Medical and Cosmetic Dermatology to include Fellowship-Trained Mohs Micrographic Surgery for the treatment of skin cancers

NOW THREE CONVENIENT LOCATIONS DESTIN/MIRAMAR BEACH 12469 Emerald Coast Parkway—Suite 101 Miramar Beach, FL 32550 • 850.654.3376

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FT. WALTON BEACH 930 Mar Walt Drive—Suite C Fort Walton Beach, FL 32547 • 850.314.7546

www.CoastalSkinSurgery.com

NICEVILLE/BLUEWATER BAY 4400 Highway 20 E—Suite 410 Niceville, FL 32578 • 850.654.3376

spec ia l a dve rt isi ng sec t ion

What is the most important thing in the world to you and your family?

If you say good health, you are not alone.

As the Baby Boomer generation ages and lives longer, wellness has become even more of a top priority to families all across our nation. EC magazine wants to play a part in taking care of you, too. We created this special section to spotlight many of the Emerald Coast's leading healthcare providers.

From the latest trends in dentistry to rehabilitative long-term care, these compassionate medical professionals are here for you. We offer up profiles that give you insight into their specialized skills, new technologies — even their personal business philosophies. Who says you have to go it alone?

These attentive local healthcare experts are ready to take good care of you.

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April–May 2013 77

Jacqueline Ward Images

MEDICAL PROFILES

spec ia l a dve rt isi ng sec t ion

Stubbs Orthodontics

Casi B. Stubbs, D.M.D., P.A. Why did you choose the Emerald Coast as a place to work?

What is the “secret” of your practice?

I am actually from this area, so coming back after 11 years of education was a must. I could not be happier to be back, raising my family and building my practice here.

We make an effort to get to know our patients and their families.

Beyond providing a beautiful and healthy smile, we also work hard to meet and exceed our patients’ expectations by going the extra mile in whatever we do.

What is your educational background?

You are an author. Tell us more.

I attended Florida State University and received a doctorate in dental medicine from the University of Florida. I also completed a craniofacial/orthopedic/orthodontic fellowship with Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital and received orthodontic certification from Nova Southeastern University.

Why did you enter this profession?

Becoming an orthodontist has always been a dream of mine. To be able to improve someone’s self-esteem, one smile at a time, is so fulfilling. Seeing patients love their new smile often for the first time, it is a true time of celebration.

Tell us about your expansion.

We have built a state-of-the-art building in Niceville (Bluewater Bay area), which doubles our size enabling us to better serve our patients. We also are thrilled to be able to provide care in our Regatta Bay facility in Destin.

CONTACT:

I recently published a children’s book called “This Will Be and You Will See” (Liberty Press). It talks about life’s challenges and rewards. It’s meant to encourage readers to believe in themselves, trust in others and never give up. It is dedicated to my daughters, Elle and Brycelyn, and I hope is inspirational to others. www.drstubbsbooks.com

awards, honors And Recognitions

In addition to expanding her practice and publishing her first children’s book, Dr. Stubbs has recently been nominated and inducted as an Honorary Squadron Commander for the 96th Test Wing at Eglin Air Force Base. “I work closely with many families for their orthodontic needs, and I am very excited to have the opportunity to see and better appreciate the sacrifices that they make daily,” says Dr. Stubbs.

4633 Highway 20, Niceville | 4484 Legendary Drive, Suite B, Destin | (850) 678-8338 | Stubbsortho.com | Email: Info@stubbsortho.com

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MEDICAL PROFILES

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White-Wilson Medical Center Who are we?

White-Wilson Medical Center is home to more than 50 of the nation’s top physicians and offers more than 20 different specialties of medicine, ranging from immediate care to neurosurgery and pediatrics to orthopaedics. White-Wilson also provides in-house laboratory and imaging services, and our patients appreciate one location for most of their healthcare needs.

We are here when you need us

In order to meet the growing needs of the community, White-Wilson has expanded its Immediate Care Clinic hours in Fort Walton Beach and Niceville. Clinic hours at both locations are Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Saturday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. We also have Immediate Care in Destin Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Our team of Board Certified physicians can treat a variety of acute conditions, saving patients an expensive visit to the emergency room. Our Immediate Care Clinics welcome walk-ins and same day appointments.

Our History

What started as the community’s first doctor’s office in 1946 is now one of the largest multi-specialty physician groups in the region. White-Wilson has proudly served this community for over 60 years!

Convenient and Coordinated Care

White-Wilson Medical Center offers patients coordinated care with more than 50 physicians integrated by one electronic medical record. Our team of specialists collaborate to provide the most comprehensive healthcare available. Our patients are our number one priority, and the convenience we offer is unmatched.

Whether you need back surgery, X-rays or someone to deliver your baby, we hope that you will choose White-Wilson Medical Center.

For more information or to sign up for our newsletter, visit whitewilson.com.

Contact

1005 Mar-Walt Drive Fort Walton Beach (850) 863-8100 990 Airport Road Destin (850) 269-6400 2001 East Highway 20 Niceville (850) 897-4400

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PHOTO by cathy catanese

MEDICAL PROFILES

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Bluewater Bay Dental Olivier Broutin, DMD

How did you come to be a dentist?

I have known I wanted to be a dentist since I was 5 years old, growing up in France surrounded by family members in the field. At the age of 18, I moved to Pensacola with a suitcase and a dream to become a dentist. Dentistry allows me to offer people better health and, for many, a renewed feeling of confidence and joy.

Tell us about Bluewater Bay Dental.

We are fortunate to begin our 14th year in Bluewater Bay. Our specialties are dental implants and cosmetic dentistry. We also provide general and restorative dentistry, sedation therapy, laser surgery, comprehensive dentistry and innovative dentistry with the utmost precision and care.

What is your background?

I received my college and dental degrees from the University of Florida, then graduated from the prestigious Misch International Implant Institute, the Albert Einstein School of Medicine Sedation Residency program in New York. I am also a visiting faculty member for the Comprehensive Dentistry program at the University of Florida College of Dentistry, and an Alumnus of the Las Vegas Institute for Advanced Dental Studies.

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What can patients expect at your practice?

We believe our clients shouldn’t wait. We want to respect your time, so we do everything we can to get our work done on time and with the utmost care.

What is the secret to your success?

We believe in relationships based on trust, therefore we care for every client as though they’re family. Our patients make educated informed decisions and feel great about their treatments.

Any future plans?

Yes, we are happy to announce that we will soon be opening a secondary office location for our Destin area clients.

CONTACT

4400 Highway 20 East, Suite 101 Niceville (850) 897-4488 BluewaterBayDentist.com Email: Bluewaterbaydental@gmail.com

MEDICAL PROFILES

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Santa Rosa Beach Dental Dr. Amber Wiebe

What kind of services do you offer at Santa Rosa Beach Dental?

We offer general dentistry for children and adults, cosmetic dentistry, facial aesthetics including Botox®, Juvederm and Restylane®, Veneers, crowns and both Zoom! 2 and KöR teeth whitening. We use 3D Panorex technology, which significantly reduces radiation compared to standard X-rays, and are one of just a handful of offices in NW Florida to have this technology.

Tell us about some of the newer techniques you are particularly excited about.

KöR Whitening has revolutionized whitening with permanent results and low to no sensitivity. I also use the Cannula technique for facial fillers. This technique, developed in France, offers practically no pain or bruising and is a non-surgical procedure with better accuracy. I also teach nationally in both fillers and Botox®. I have a unique eye for facial aesthetics as a woman and artist.

What is the philosophy of Santa Rosa Beach Dental?

At our office, our patients come first. We take tremendous pride in providing personalized care to our patients utilizing the newest technology to deliver the highest quality. As a woman and a mother, I can relate with the needs and desires of my patients and can guarantee a pleasant and satisfactory result.

You are engaged in the Emerald Coast community. Tell us about that.

I contribute to American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry through Give Back a Smile program, which rebuilds the lives and dignity of survivors of domestic violence through complimentary cosmetic dental services. I also support the American Cancer Society Cattle Barons Ball and am a proud supporter of Sinfonia Gulf Coast.

Why did you settle on the Emerald Coast?

I have been in practice for 13 years with 12 of those years right here on the Emerald Coast. I am here because of the friendly people, beautiful beaches and it’s a great place to raise my four children.

You seem to have a real passion for your field.

I love dentistry and helping people look and feel better! My father, father-in-law and husband are dentists. I really do love my job.

CONTACT

4942 Highway 98 West, Suite 19 Santa Rosa Beach (850) 267-0777 Santarosabeachdental.com Call us for free a consultation or second opinion.

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The Spine Institute on the Emerald Coast

Kornelis Poelstra, MD, PHD and Lori Poelstra, MD MEDICAL PROFILES

What services do you provide?

Our team of experienced medical professionals provides care for virtually all spinal disorders. Our services include simple as well as complex Operative, Interventional, and Non-Operative spine care.

How has your business expanded?

This past December we officially became an independent medical spine practice and moved to our new locations. We have a new name, but still provide the same exceptional care.

What is your business philosophy?

The mission of The Spine Institute is to deliver uncompromising excellence in spine care. We begin by understanding and diagnosing the spinal problem, and then providing the appropriate treatment options within a comprehensive treatment plan.

What do you credit for your success?

Scott holstein

From our physicians and staff to our patients, we all work together to achieve a common goal: successful treatment outcomes for our patients. Here we measure success the same as in life, in terms of the people we have helped to become healthier and happier members of our community.

CONTACT

155 Crystal Beach Drive, Destin | (850) 460-2350 1042 Mar Walt Dr., Fort Walton Beach | Facebook.com/spine institute

Grand Boulevard Health & Rehabilitation Center How would you describe your business or practice philosophy or strategy?

Offering an experienced team of licensed professionals, provide caring services to our community. If you are seeking short-term rehabilitation services or looking for long-term services or Hospice Care, administrator MaryAnn Loiselle and her dedicated staff, will be honored to serve you.

What do you do or what services do you provide?

Our facility provides 24-hour skilled nursing care, rehabilitation therapy, respite, short-term and longterm health care. We also provide psychosocial, onsite dental, podiatry and optometry services.

Scott holstein

What is the “secret” of your business or professional success?

Every day, caring and compassionate staff members, who share an unwavering commitment to our residents and community, provide our attentive care.

What kind of technical support is used at Grand Boulevard Health & Rehabilitation Center?

We have state-of-the art technology and provide wireless capabilities for facility residents and visitors.

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CONTACT

138 Sandestin Lane, Miramar Beach (850) 267-2887 | Email: maloiselle@gchc.com | www.gchc.com

Scott Holstein

MEDICAL PROFILES

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Wright Parkway Dental Center Susan M. Welch, DDS

Tell us about your practice and why you landed on the Emerald Coast.

I have been in dentistry for 17 years and have worked on the Emerald Coast for 14 years. Originally, the United States Air Force Dental Corps brought me here in 1999. My spouse is a retired helicopter pilot, and we met in the Air Force. I bought my dental practice in 2004, and it has grown into the premier dental office in the area for helping those who suffer from TMJ and obstructive sleep apnea. Now, our three children and the welcoming Emerald Coast community keep us here.

What is the secret to your professional success?

To listen first, ask questions and treat clients with respect. We work hard and are constantly learning and advancing our care.

In her words:

Our oral healthcare practice recognizes the whole person, and our goal is to teach our clients and their families, so that they can live longer healthier lives — one smile at a time.

What are your areas of expertise?

What are your hobbies and outside interests?

TMJ disorders, headaches, snoring and obstructive sleep apnea are our areas of expertise.

Balancing family, my relationship with our Lord, continuing education, hunting and exercising with my spouse of eight years.

Have you added any new services lately?

Contact

Yes, we are now offering adult and adolescent orthodontics and interceptive treatment for children. We use aligner technology called Clear Correct.

106 Wright Parkway, SW Fort Walton Beach (850) 243-1534 wrightparkwaydentalcenter.com smwelchdds@gmail.com

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We are here to make you smile!

Miramar Beach Dental & Orthodontics Jason E. Baker, DDS

What is your educational background?

What is your business philosophy?

How did you get into the dental profession?

What is your winning strategy?

What services does your practice provide?

When you have free time how do you fill it?

Do you have any upcoming plans to share?

CONTACT

I received my bachelor of science degree from Louisiana State University. I earned my dental credentials from the University of Texas Health and Science Center in San Antonio, which was ranked the No.1 dental school in the nation at the time.

I had always wanted to be in the medical profession and had an artistic talent. These traits blended perfectly for the practice of dentistry. I have been practicing dentistry for 15 years. My family and I moved to the Emerald Coast 6 years ago to take advantage of being closer to family and to live the coastal lifestyle.

We offer cosmetic and general dentistry as well as orthodontics.

We have a wide range of services such as surgery, implants, root canals, and the treatment of myofacial pain and TMJ disorders using Botox. We are a comprehensive Dental Practice.

Along with recently adding Botox to our line of treatment, we have a new Associate Dentist who recently joined the practice.

We are planning an office expansion to accommodate the growth of the practice. We have added digital impressions, sedation and sleep dentistry, as well as sleep apnea and snoring treatments.

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We aim to provide the highest quality dental and orthodontic care utilizing the latest technology. We strive to create an environment that is warm and welcoming for our patients and work to maintain a happy, motivated dental team.

There is always laughter in our office! I value relationships developed with my patients and the dental team. I also value open communication and transparency, so our patients know exactly what to expect before starting treatment.

I spend my time with my wife, Heather, and our three girls. I also enjoy playing tennis, running marathons, hunting, fishing and serving in my church.

10221 Emerald Coast Parkway, Unit 10 - Palm Plaza (850) 650-2070 miramarbeachdental.com miramarbeachdental@gmail.com

Jason E. Baker, DDS

spec ia l a dve rt isi ng sec t ion

E. Jennifer Esses, M.D. OB/GYN Women and Children First How long have you been practicing?

MEDICAL PROFILES

I have been practicing in obstetrics and gynecology for 16 years, 12 of which have been in private practice on the Emerald Coast.

What is your business and educational background?

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

Why did you get into this specialty?

I can relate to my patients on a personal level, as well as professionally. That connection allows me to care for them not just physically but emotionally and spiritually also.

Where do you practice?

Kansas Pitts Photography

I deliver at the Family Birth Place and at Sacred Heart Hospital Emerald Coast and am accepting new patients.

Contact

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

TOTAL ACCESS. TOTAL CONFIDENCE.

TOTAL CARE FOR YOUR SKIN.

MEDICAL | SURGICAL | COSMETIC

At Gulf Coast Dermatology, we believe these are the three most valuable things we have to offer the communities we care for.

What does this mean for you?

U Access to the region’s widest range of advanced skin cancer treatments, including painless Superficial Radiation Therapy and Mohs micrographic surgery U Same-week appointments U Our physician-supervised spa, offering proven treatments for total skin revitalization and rejuvenation To make an appointment or schedule a complimentary cosmetic consultation, please call 1-877-231-DERM (3376).

Michael Stickler, MD | George vonHilsheimer, MD Board-Certified Dermatologists Kristi Wells, PA-C | Heather Preisser, PA-C Katie Showalter, PA-C | Anna Justi, PA-C Certified Physician Assistants

gulfcoastderm.com

NICEVILLE | FT. WALTON BEACH | SANTA ROSA BEACH | CRESTVIEW

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Your BEST Choice For Ambulatory Surgery Choose Emerald Coast Surgery Center 99% Patient Satisfaction 995 Mar Walt Drive, Fort Walton Beach, FL 32547 T (850) 863-7887 F (850) 863-4955 www.emeraldcoastsurgerycenter.com

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the good life Food + Travel + Hea lth + Home

eudaimonia*

What’s the word, Redbird?

When Robin Cannon was growing up in Atlanta, she wanted to be a paramedic, drive an ambulance and “save people.” Today, the free-spirited bohemian owner of Redbirdart resuscitates discarded wood, metal and other found objects into lively, animated mosaic-style paintings and folksy art pieces, many featuring whimsical birds, that are flying off Emerald Coast gallery shelves.

As a teenager, the petite, blue-eyed blonde was nicknamed Bird by her boyfriend’s father. Both the boyfriend (now husband, Shane) and nickname stuck, and when friends encouraged her to come up with a name for her art, Redbirdart was hatched. Cannon’s colorful art can be found at Artesano’s in Fort Walton Beach and Flutterby Antique’s in Destin, as well as at local art shows, art walks and festivals.

With musicians on one side of her family and artisans on the other, it’s not a surprise this artist’s talent sprouted wings. “My dad made toys and furniture, so I grew up in a workshop filled with metal and wood lathes.”

Like the birds she creates, Cannon’s spontaneous style appears to flit easily from one medium to another. “I can go from mosaics to painting birthday cakes. I love to paint, but then I love puzzles so I love to work with recycled things,” she confesses.

In her Destin home, a rotating bicycle wheel perched atop a wooded spindle displays dangling art from its spokes. The repurposed piece is just one example of how this antique-lover has breathed life into the various materials and objects stockpiled on the side of her house. Thanks to the artful resourcefulness of Robin Cannon, Redbirdart is flying to the rescue … one recycled piece of art at a time. — Zandra Wolfgram

*happiness is ...

Photo by Scott Holstein

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going places

Summer on the Coast of Maine When It’s Hot in the South, Consider a Sojurn to a Place Where the Mountains Meet the Sea By Jack Macaleavy

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Photo courtesy Guildive Cruises (sailboat)

w

hen the weather warms up, the hamlets and villages of coastal Maine come alive, and a summertime visit here should be on everyone’s bucket list. I’ve discovered the perfect home base to enjoy all of the “Mid-coast” pleasures to be found in and around the beautiful Penobscot Bay. Point Lookout, located in the small town of Northport, started out in the mid-’90s as a mountain top corporate retreat and training facility for the credit card company MBNA. Today, it operates as a resort and conference center, and includes some amenities one might not expect to find — like an eight-lane bowling alley — in a woodland retreat.

Guests are housed in 106 one-, two-, and threebedroom cabins, spaced around the resort’s 397 acres to afford quiet, privacy and a great opportunity to stretch out on an Adirondack chair and enjoy starry nights unimpeded by light pollution.

While the cabins look rustic, all have modern amenities including kitchen facilities, screened porches, air conditioning and Wi-Fi — for very reasonable rates, starting at $125 per night.

(Opposite page) Officially, Maine has nearly 230 miles of coastline. But because of all of its bays, inlets and islands, the tidal coastline measures 3,500 miles.

One of the best ways to explore is on a shipboard tour; Lighthouses are part of Maine’s charm and its seafaring history. This is the Rockland Breakwater Lighthouse, at the end of a nearly milelong jetty.

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There are six miles of scenic trails available for taking a walk in the woods that so enchanted Henry David Thoreau. You might see some deer or wild turkey, or perhaps you’ll be looking at life-sized and amazingly lifelike bronze sculptures of moose and bear by Forest Hart. There’s also a sandy beach, a rarity along Maine’s rocky coast. But be forewarned: Even in the warmest months, the Atlantic water here still has temperatures in the 60s. If you can scare up a team, the resort also includes soccer and softball fields.

Some of Point Lookout’s most impressive amenities are its world-class athletic facilities. Within a 36,000-squarefoot luxury sports and fitness complex are full-sized basketball, squash, racquetball and tennis courts, a walking track, a virtual golf and Wii room, an aerobic and spinning studio, a stretching room, a comprehensive weight training and cardiovascular conditioning center and more.

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Point Lookout’s mountaintop facility, The Summit (this page, top) offers meeting facilities and a commanding view of Penobscot Bay. Lobster (below) are a must-eat during your visit to Maine.

A spectacular entertainment and office facility called The Summit is perched atop the mountain with a breathtaking view of the bay and surrounding countryside.

The historic towns of Belfast and Camden are about six miles away in either direction. Both offer a fine selection of diverse restaurants. Of course, fresh lobster is the main staple of most, and having the opportunity to feast on a crustacean that may have been caught the previous day (the fresh lobster does have a distinct texture and flavor) is as special as eating fresh oysters in Apalachicola. Family owned and operated, Anglers Seafood Restaurant in Searsport is where you’ll find locals eating the catch of the day.

There’s an abundance of shopping, including several stores with a particular connection to the region, such as BlueJacket Shipcrafters, also in Searsport, which features more than 100 models of ships as well as model kits, tools and books.

You’ll find handcrafted furniture at Windsor Chairmakers, the work of 25 local artisans in one stop at Mainely Pottery and Maine’s version of our New Leaf Market at the Belfast Co-op Store.

Rockland is home to the Maine Lighthouse Museum, showcasing 150 years of history including a close-up look at the huge Fresnel lenses that shine brightly through the night and fog. Maine is home to more than 60 lighthouses which function today much like they did in the past, guiding ships along the 230 miles of Maine’s coastline. One of several in the area, the Rockland Breakwater Lighthouse in Port Clyde is at the end of a nearly mile-long breakwater built in the late 1800s to protect the harbor from Nor’easters.

The only way to the lighthouse is to take this hike atop the flat granite block walkway, which is undergoing restoration to

Photo courtesy MICHELLE STAPLETON (Point Lookout)

going places

ARM CANDY INDULGE YOUR SWEET TOOTH

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The finest resort lifestyle anywhere on the Emerald Coast 9300 Emerald Coast Pkwy Miramar Beach, FL

‡

www.SandestinRealEstate.com info@sandestinrealestate.com facebook.com/SandestinRealEstate

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Fort Knox was built between 1844 and 1869 to fend off British attacks, but it never saw battle. The granite structure is now a Maine historic site and listed as a National Historic Landmark.

10343 Hwy. 30-A Seacrest Beach 4012 Commons Drive, Suite 110 Destin, Florida

Complete care for all your ocular needs.

Locally Owned and Operated

Kevin W. Wells OD, FAAO Diplomate, American Board of Optometry

BOARD CERTIFIED OPTOMETRIC PHYSICIAN

(850) 424-6677 wellsvisioncenter.com

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return it to its 1950s state when it was manned by the lighthouse keeper. The 100-year-old building is in remarkable condition and is just waiting for some more fresh paint and period furniture to be returned to its heyday condition.

For a more complete history of the seafaring region, visit the Penobscot Marine Museum in Searsport. There are 13 buildings, eight on the National Register of Historic places, including a restored home of a sea captain and the city’s first town hall. You will also see a fleet of antique boats, a library of maritime history, marine art and a trove of souvenirs and household goods brought here from around the globe.

Fort Knox (named after Major General Henry Knox, the same guy as the more famous fort in Kentucky) was built to protect the Penobscot River Valley after British attacks during the American Revolution and War of 1812. Built out of granite mined just a few miles upriver, it never did see combat, but is beautifully preserved. Nearby is the Penobscot Narrows Observatory, where one can take an elevator ride up a 420-foot-tall obelisk and be treated to a 360-degree view of the river, bay and Maine countryside.

In most of the coastal towns, for a modest fee, one can board a three-masted schooner and motor out to Penobscot Bay. Raise the sails and experience this primitive form of transportation in its purest form. Gliding among the many islands with nothing more than the sound of wind and water will surround you with a sense of calmness and tranquility. The ship’s captain and mate provide many historical perspectives of the sailing and the rich history of northern Maine people and folklore. ec

Photo courtesy Cheryl Pierce

For More Information Point Lookout Resort and Conference Center (800) 515-3611 visitpointlookout.com

Rockland Breakwater Lighthouse (207) 542-7574 rocklandlighthouse.com

Camden-RockportLincolnville Chamber of Commerce (800) 223-5459 visitcamden.com

Penobscot Marine Musuem (207) 548-2529 pmm-maine.org

Anglers Seafood Restaurant anglersseafoodrestaurant.com BlueJacket Shopcrafters (800) 448-5567 bluejacketinc.com

Fort Knox State Historic Site (207) 469-7719 state.me.us/doc/parks Penobscot Narrows Bridge & Observatory (207) 469-7719 fortknox.maineguide.com/history

Maine Lighthouse Museum (207) 594-3301 mainelighthousemuseum.com EmeraldCoastMagazine.com April–May 2013

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Free Evaluation!

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Ms. Post, ey r d Au

gardening

The Lawn Whisperer Pay Attention, and Your Grass Will Tell You When it Needs Watering and Fertilizer

®

Ms. Grow-It-All

By Audrey Post

Ms. Grow-It-All

®

Q: What’s the best way to water my lawn? I want to be responsible in my use of water but I also want to make sure I water adequately.

Good for you. We all need to think more about how much we water, where we water and how we apply the water to our lawns and our planting beds. Fortunately, we had a decent amount of rainfall in summer of 2012 so watering wasn’t really needed. Fall was a bit dry, though, and we really don’t know what to expect this summer. Having a watering plan will help make sure your lawn gets what it needs without wasteful over-watering.

When we talk about watering, we also need to talk about fertilizing and mowing. Many people apply far too much fertilizer and water to their grass, because they want that lush, green “golf course” look to their yard. But overwatering can damage your grass and cause problems on property other than your own. The excess fertilizer washes away, causing pollution in our lakes, springs and streams and damaging the ecological balance downstream. Most people fertilize their lawns too early in the year, too. When the soil and roots are still cool, the plant can’t absorb all the nutrients so you’re wasting your money and your effort. Centipede grass, in particular, will turn yellow if you fertilize too early.

It’s tempting during those warm March days to get out the bag of “weed and feed,” but find another outdoor chore to do instead. The soil doesn’t warm as quickly as the air. Wait until early April, when your lawn has started to “green up” on its own, to apply fertilizer.

An established lawn in North Florida and the Panhandle needs one-half to three-quarters of an inch of water per week, depending on the type of soil you have. Clay and loam soils retain moisture more than sandy soils, so half an inch is probably enough; use the higher measure for sandy soil.

Get a rain gauge, so you’ll know how much water Mother Nature is providing. If you’re getting at least half an inch of rain a week, you don’t need to water. Overwatering will

© 2013 PostScript Publishing, all rights reserved. Audrey Post is a certified Advanced Master Gardener volunteer with the University of Florida/IFAS Extension in Leon County.

E-mail her at Questions@MsGrowItAll.com or visit her website at www.msgrowitall.com. Ms. Grow-It-All® is a registered trademark of PostScript Publishing.

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ESIGNAVENUE

Furniture & Accessories Remodel or New Construction Window Treatments Condo Packages 34940 Emerald Coast Parkway, Suite 114 Destin next door to Ulta & Michaels

www.Design-Avenue.com phone 850.424.5155

Bring home a little bit of Earth 4808 East Scenic Hwy 30A, Seagrove Beach, FL, 32459 w w w. C l a y 3 0 A . c o m

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cause shallow root systems to develop, which makes the grass less drought-tolerant than it would be with a deeper root structure. It also encourages the development of thatch, a matted layer of dead plant tissue at the base of grass blades that prevents water, sunlight and nutrients from reaching the roots.

Overwatering also makes your lawn more susceptible to disease, pests and weeds.

In tandem with proper fertilizing and watering is proper mowing. St. Augustine cultivars should be 4 inches high; centipede should be 3 inches. Contrary to popular myth, the clippings don’t contribute to thatch buildup, so leave them where they fall to feed the lawn. Cutting grass too short limits its droughttolerance, and cutting too much at one time stresses the plant. Never cut more than a third of the height at one time.

Lawn-watering systems use overhead sprinklers.

Many come with automatic timers, but if you want to be responsible about your water usage, set it to manual control. We’ve all seen it: It’s pouring rain and someone’s lawn sprinkler is on. Don’t be that guy. Go look at your grass and see if it’s asking for water. If it is, turn on your sprinkler system.

You can check your system to see how much water it is dispensing, how fast and where it’s landing by placing empty cans — short ones such as tuna cans or cat-food cans work great — around your yard. Mark the inside of the cans with a waterproof marker at quarter-inch intervals, set them out and then see how much was collected in 10-minute intervals. Then you can figure out how long to leave the sprinklers on to get the right amount of water where it needs to be.

You’ll also be able to see whether you have any dry spots in your lawn that the sprinkler isn’t covering.

Water your lawn early in the morning to reduce water loss from evaporation as well as reduce the chance of lawn disease.

Your lawn will tell you when it’s time to water it.

The leaf blades will fold and curl in an attempt to retain moisture. The color will also change from green to a blue-gray. Perhaps the most visible sign a lawn needs watering is footprints that remain long after they were made. If you don’t see at least one of these signs, don’t water. ec

habitat

Rolls That Rock Wallpaper is making a spectacular comeback, earning designer kudos for great glamour

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Photo Courtesy FLAVORPAPER.COM (SUPER HERO DIGITAL WALL PRINT); PHILIP JEFFRIES LTD. (NATURAL WEAVE, ROCK WALL COVERING)

By Lis King

allpaper is back, so chic and elegant that it’s banishing those fauxpainted walls that have been the rage for years. Nobody is more surprised than interior designers, who had gotten used to dissing wallpaper as a boring, ugly product.

Wallcovering manufacturers admit that this criticism wasn’t unfounded and took it as a wake-up call. The industry spent those years of the painted-wall frenzy reinventing itself. The result is stunning. The new wallpapers have it all: artistry, innovation, fun and eco-savvy.

Best of all, the new wallpapers exude outrageous glamour, say Karen Kerns and Lindsay Miller, designers with Susan Lovelace Interiors in Destin. Ranging from luscious silk and Natural Weave opulent metallics to breezy linens and natural weaves, many wallcoverings feature such adornments as Swarovski crystals, glass beads, exotic wood, embroidery and mirrored tiles.

Wallcoverings from Philip Jeffries Ltd. are among the two designers’ favorites. Typical of this company’s designs are hand-painted or hand-decorated textures, and these are especially well-loved by Emerald Coast homeowners. Good examples of Philip Jeffries’ artistry are panels of authentic bamboo tambour and gold, silver and copper leaf designs hand crafted Rock Wall according to centuries-old Japanese traditions.

Updated Traditionals Area designers say that their clients prefer a contemporary take on wallcoverings, and often that means new twists on such classics as florals, stripes, damasks, toiles and geometrics.

“Wallpaper companies have gotten gutsier and more experimental,” explains Karen Waterfield, designer and owner of Sugar Beach Interiors, Destin. “They now use a lot of layering — metallics and all sorts of textures — to make the product really different from paint. Designs have also become large-scale and more graphic, and colors are brighter.”

Toiles, one of the most traditional of designs, illustrate her point. They used to come in blue on a cream background, but now they appear in numerous color combinations. And themes are no longer limited to shepherdesses frolicking in meadows. For example, new toiles from Studio Printworks feature such themes as cowboys, oil rigs and garbage trucks, and from Europe comes the infamous Glasgow design, a toile that depicts naughty boys and girls in the park.

A super hero-styled fractal graphic, like this geometric pop culture-inspired design from Liam Brazier's collection on Flavorpaper.com, is unexpected, and yet still sophisticated enough for a "grown up" room.

Digitally Speaking Another amazing aspect of the new wallpaper scene is that you can now create your own one-of-a-kind design. Thanks to Planet Profil, you can let your imagination roam and custom order a wallpaper or mural. For instance, you might want to change the scale of a pattern, personalize a design, blow up a family photo to cover an entire wall, and take any image — or part of it — and turn it into a special scene for a soaring entry hall, family room or home theater.

Companies like DreamScape, Great Wall, Planetprofil and Pottery Barn can create such images on all sorts of finishes, from whisper-thin fabric faces reminiscent of silks and linen to suede or artist’s canvas.

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habitat

‘‘

Rooms can seem cold and noisy without softening elements, and many of the new wallcoverings, such as linens, suedes, leathers and other textures, play that role beautifully.”

“Say you have a wonderful photo you took on the beach, you can have it reproduced so it appears to be a hand-painted wall-to-wall or floorto-ceiling watercolor or oil painting,” explains Roy Ritchie of DreamScape.

“Or you photographed your kid making a great play on the soccer field.

Wouldn’t he love that shot as a feature wall in his room?”

Artistry is the key word for Planet Profil which produces panels up to 16 feet wide. Its unusual images include a giant rhododendron leaf making a graphic statement on a ceiling, a single stem of an orchid blooming floor-toceiling on a wall and a segment of some very recognizable museum art blown up to huge proportions.

— Karen Waterfield

Fun and Fantasy How about a scratch-and-sniff wallpaper? It’s available. A company called Flavor Papers handprints vintage, traditional and contemporary patterns that emit bursts of aroma. Think bananas, cherries and spices. The company says the buyers are rock stars, restaurants and homeowners requiring olfactory satisfaction.

If you like your shabby chic with a glamorous and contemporary twist, Valhallan Papers may be for you. The firm custom-paints papers in mottled patterns, including metallics, and some are crumpled and torn to produce the illusion of antique surfaces.

Do-it-yourselfers with artistic sense might check out MIO Culture’s three-dimensional wallpaper tiles, including a weave pattern especially designed to produce sound control. The tiles can be installed temporarily with double-stick tape or permanently with wallpaper adhesive.

Designers Re-discover Wallpaper While wallpaper is making a strong comeback, wallpaper stores are not. All those mom-and-pop stores are gone. One of the few area stores reminiscent of traditional wallpaper outlets is Color Center in

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Fort Walton Beach, but interior design showrooms have become the primary places to look at high-end, glamorous wallcoverings.

“We carry mid-market products by manufacturers like York and Seabrook,” tells Nancy Leon, a Color Center manager. “Our customers favor contemporary geometric designs, metallics and urban, funky looks. And to our surprise, flocked designs are coming back.”

High-end wallcoverings are definitely the ticket at design studios like Sugar Beach Interiors and Susan Lovelace Interiors.

“We like these products,” says Karen Waterfield. “They can add warmth, luxury and personality to interiors. Rooms can seem cold and noisy without softening elements, and many of the new wallcoverings, such as linens, suedes, leathers and other textures, play that role beautifully.”

Kerns, Miller and Waterfield all say that their clients are big fans of grasscloths. “Their textures and warm, natural looks seem to strike just the right beachy note,” says Kerns. “Plus, this classic product now comes in so many forms, incorporating metallics or embroidery, handpainting, etc. Grasscloths can also be printed with traditional designs, such as damasks or stripes.”

Miller adds that homeowners have discovered that wallcoverings last longer than paint. “A wallpaper will look nice for years, while a painted wall can look dingy in no time,” she says. “Considering that the new products can be costly that’s an important point. However, homeowners should know that they may have to wait a while for their wallcoverings.”

So how pricey are today’s wallpapers? While low to mid-market products run from $60 to $200 a roll, the elaborate and hand-crafted designs hover around $1,000 a roll.

At such prices, it’s hardly surprising that the most fashion-forward products mostly show up as feature walls, for example as backdrop for a luxuriously appointed bed or in a front hall. Powder rooms that are usually fairly small are considered perfect foils for four luxurious walls. Kitchens and baths are often wallpapered, too, offering tactile relief from rows of cabinetry, appliances and fixtures. But living rooms still have to catch on to the great wallpaper comeback.

Area designers speculate that living rooms lag behind in wall fashions because the cost would be prohibitive in today’s oversized spaces.

To that, the wallcoverng industry argues that even using an expensive wall design will provide more glamour at less cost than furniture. ec

Photo Courtesy FLAVORPAPER.COM (B-A-N-A-N-A-S!), PLANET PROFIL (FLOWER WALL)

Scratch-and-sniff "B-A-N-A-N-A-S!" paper (left) available at Michael Angelo's Wonderland Beauty Parlor based in New York adds wonderful whimsy; Impact graphics like this eco-friendly floral pattern from Planet Profil Custom Wall & Ceiling Coverings (Planetprofil.com) make a big statement in any room.

JOSEPH ROGERS & DEKE LEE Owners, Avantgarde Salon & Spa, Destin EC Magazine advertisers since 2000

EC MAGAZINE

works for us “Our loyal client list is proof positive that long-term relationships built on trust always yield the best results in the end.”

Joseph and Deke have been using EC Magazine to build and reinforce their brand for more than a dozen years — almost as long as the 16 years they’ve been in business on the Emerald Coast. And it’s working. The readers of EC Magazine have voted their Avantgarde Salon & Spa the Best Of the Emerald Coast for the past eight years.

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P R O U D LY P U B L I S H I N G E C M A G A Z I N E S I N C E 2 0 0 0 | ( 8 5 0 ) 8 7 8 - 0 5 5 4 | r o w l a n d p u b l i s h i n g . c o m EmeraldCoastMagazine.com April–May 2013

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in the neighborhood

Living the Good Life

Sandestin offers coastal lifestyle homes that suit nearly any budget, style

By Zandra wolfgram

W

ith nearly 72 distinct neighborhoods along with quaint shops, charming eateries and family-friendly recreational amenities galore — all within its scenic 2,400 acres — some say Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort is like its own little world. The diverse range of properties on the market means there is likely something in Sandestin to suit your budget, taste and lifestyle, allowing you to live the dream of homeownership in one of the premier resorts in the Southeast. Imagine it. Owning a home in Sandestin is like being on vacation every day.

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Go to emeraldcoastmagazine.com for REAL ESTATE listings

Choose Your View From the shores of the beach to the tip of the peninsula on the bay, the resort is a little less than four miles long. It’s large enough for a 26-mile bike ride along lushly landscaped bike paths, but not so large that you don’t have a close-knit sense of belonging in the community.

Sandestin Real Estate, which is the exclusive realtor for this community, groups homes into four different areas: Beachfront and Beachside, both on the south side of the Sandestin; Bayside (east and west); the Village on the Choctawhatchee Bay, near the resort’s center; and Burnt Pine on the north side. Each area has its own personality, architectural style and a wide range of price points. In fact, the highest home is not on the beach as you might expect, it is in the prestigious neighborhood of Burnt Pine. It’s important to review all the options when considering a home purchase here, so you do not overlook a hidden gem.

If you are looking to put your toes in the sugar-white sands of the Gulf, consider the mid-rise towers directly within the Beachfront area. Beachside I and II and Westwinds

offer two and three-bedroom condos, while Southwinds II and III feature four-bedroom condos. The area is also home to Sandestin Beach Villas, unique five-level townhomes boasting four bedrooms.

Beachside is just a stroll from the beach and features spacious two-, three- and four-bedroom townhomes with sweeping golf course views, as well as low-rise and mid-rise condos and even serene lakefront homes that are within steps of the beach.

Both Beachfront and Beachside are near waterfront dining, Baytowne Golf Club and a green area that includes a fun miniature golf course called the Dunes.

The Bayside area offers pretty views of Choctawhatchee Bay, Horseshoe Bayou and the Baytowne Marina. Here you find single-family homes, cottages and villas on quiet streets lined with palmetto and cypress pine as well as homes nestled along the Links Golf Course. The Player’s Club affords panoramic views of the bay with the convenience of condo living. In addition to the Links Course, the Bayside area is near the Sandestin Salon & Spa, a golf shop, family-friendly dining, the Baytowne Marina offering even cont. on pg. 104

Photo Courtesy Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort/Photographer Allison Yii

DEAL Estate

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DEAL Estate

just listed

Go to emeraldcoastmagazine.com for REAL ESTATE listings

Elegance in Indian Bayou Spacious, newly renovated and … on the water! By Laura Bradley

B

Dedicated to Luxury Real Estate Kelly Plantation John Cook

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850.582.0874

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Coldwell Banker United, Realtors

www.JohnCookDestin.com

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com

•

•

4458 Legendary Drive

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Suite 100

•

Destin, FL 32541

John.Cook@cbunited.com

Photos By Scott Holstein (Just Listed) And Courtesy Hilary Farnum (Just Sold)

uilt in 1993 and now newly renovated, this “as is” property is full of exquisite, upscale touches. Thick crown molding, wood floors, a custom built fireplace, a wet bar and bookshelves in the reading room, and travertine in the master bathroom will have you living in the lap of luxury—and also, did we mention it’s waterfront 4041 Indian Bayou N. on Indian Bayou?

A 38-foot dock with boat slip and covered boat lift offer easy Quick Look access to the bayou, the second List Price: $739,000 closest protected, deep-water ($250.33/sqft) inlet from the Gulf. Four bedYear Built: 1993 rooms and 3.5 bathrooms proSquare Feet: 2,592 vide enough space for everyone, Bedrooms: 4 Bathrooms: 3.5 and if not, the upstairs office can easily be converted to a fifth bedroom with the addition of doors to the closet area. Improvements (including the replacement of the roof in 2005, a 2010 replacement of the air conditioner blower and a 2011 replacement of the air conditioner unit) provide peace of mind. Buyers be advised, the property is to be sold “as is,” and a broker/salesperson has ownership interest in the property.

Enjoy the best of Florida living and stay cool as you lounge under the live roof deck in the backyard, relax in the Jacuzzi or even take a dip in the ground pool. Sun yourself on the large paved deck, enjoying the sounds of the waterfall in the private backyard with mature landscaping. ec

DEAL Estate

just sold

69 W. Yacht Pond Lane, WaterSound

WaterSound Wonder

Custom design detail sold this move-in ready home in 122 days By Laura Bradley

T

he finishing touches and luxurious details can often be the difference between mere interest and a purchase.

Such was the case with this palatial WaterSound beach home, built just last year and listed in September 2012 for $2,699,000.

This custom built home was fully furnished and movein ready, with lots of little designer touches to accompany its high-profile design team. The house was designed by architect Tom Christ, built by renowned Velvet Sun Home Builder and finished by Suddes Designs. Set in the beautiful WaterSound scenery, this home exemplifies “lap of luxury.” The considerable attention to detail and craftsmanship come through in features like designer-sourced and custom-made light fixtures, custom upholstered furnishings, designer-only rugs, custom-made sofas, chairs, linens, draperies, bookcases, reclaimed wood beams and sliding barn doors.

In addition to its high quality design and execution, the home also offers plenty of room for extended family retreats, with six bedrooms (all featuring en suite baths with imported marbles and tiles and one-of-a-kind vanities), including an Quick Look accessible guest wing with living area, List Price: $2,699,000 convenient mini kitchen and “swing($518.75/sqft) ing” bunks for the kids. Of the home’s Year Built: 2012 six bedrooms, two are large master Square Feet: 4,000 suites, one with private sitting/bunk Bedrooms: 6 room complete with its own mornBathrooms: 6.5 ing kitchenette and bathroom. The main floor’s gathering areas surround a state-of-the-art kitchen, equipped with every conceivable accoutrement. The spacious living room’s reclaimed brick fireplace, coupled with the brick accents in the intimate bar room, are just another touch that made the house as a whole irresistible.

The home’s uppermost floor is the pinnacle of beach life, with breathtaking views of the Gulf from a large tower balcony with its own built-in bar area. The main level also features a screened porch with a private, relaxing atmosphere. The private plunge pool and outdoor patio with summer kitchen provide more opportunities for outdoor fun. The surrounding area features pedestrian bridges and boardwalks leading to the white sand beaches within minutes, making it no wonder that this house sold in just 122 days for $2,325,000. ec

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in the neighborhood

Go to emeraldcoastmagazine.com for REAL ESTATE listings

cont. from pg. 100

center, an exclusive golf club with fine dining and some of the most stunning homes and estates on the Northwest Florida coast.

The Village more dining, a five-acre nature park and arguably one of the best sunset views on the Emerald Coast.

The Village puts you in the heart of it all. This quaint waterfront hub located along the peaceful Choctawhatchee Bay, is reminiscent of an old-world village, but with modern day charm. Dozens of quaint shops, charming eateries, lively nightspots, festive family attractions and a pet-friendly Events Plaza makes for a vibrant happening scene all year long. The Village architecture was inspired by great cities such as New Orleans and Charleston. Here you find charming one-, two- and three-bedroom condos with welcoming shell-lined walkways connecting eight distinct properties, many with spacious verandas and lush courtyard gardens.

If the Village lets you be in the center of it all, then Burnt Pine allows you to get away from it all … and in grand fashion. Nestled along the Choctawhatchee Bay on a championship course designed

by Rees Jones, Burnt Pine is a private, gated community on the northern side of the resort which features large land lots, a state-of-the-art fitness

Built in 1999, this distinctive Old Florida-style home is located in a private, gated community within Sandestin called Burnt Pine. A beautiful, custom single-story design with an open floor plan featuring sweeping views the golf course and lake views that make it ideal for entertaining.

With 5,153 square-feet, this spacious home features four bedrooms, four full baths and an additional half bath. This lovely home sat on the market in 2012 for $1.35 million for 190 days without a single bite. The frustrated homeowners shifted their sales strategy and re-listed it at $1.32 million with Sandestin Real Estate. The strategy paid off, and in just two weeks it sold for $1,112,500.

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Something for Everyone If you thought Sandestin was out of reach for any reason, give it another look. According to Kitty Whitney, executive director of Sandestin Real Estate, now is the time to buy. “The market has settled in. Though demand to live here is high and inventory is lower than it has been in six years, there are still 278 residential listings and 60 land lots available throughout the resort community.”

Sandestin’s long list of real estate options makes it attractive to a broad range of buyers. “Whether you are a young family starting out looking for a first home, a retiree who has emptied her nest looking for a second home or from a long line of Sandestin lovers who have vacationed here for many generations looking for just the right investment property, the joy of living at the beach with the many conveniences of a resort lifestyle is definitely within your reach at Sandestin,” Whitney says.

With studio condos priced from $90,000, $300,000 lakeside villas, three-bedroom, two-story homes at $600,000, luxury second homes at $1.5 million on up to $5 million sprawling bayfront estates, there is surely something for nearly everyone’s budget in Sandestin. Add to that the endless list of amenities, conveniences and homeowner privileges, and Whitney will tell you the price per square foot for a Sandestin home is “priceless.”

For this real estate executive it’s hard to put a value on where we choose to live. “Living in Sandestin is all about lifestyle,” Whitney says. To that we say, here’s to buying into the good life. ec

SHOW ME THE $ We’re running the numbers with real estate industry facts and stats:

In Okaloosa county, January new pending sales rose 37.8% over last year’s numbers.

Nationally, 31% of all homes sold in December were on the market for less than a month.

In Dec. 2012, the sale price of a single-family home in Florida was up 14.1% and on the market 12 fewer days than a year ago.

This January saw 58.6% fewer short sales in Okaloosa county.

On average, homes in Walton county sold for 92.0% of their original list price this January.

The median sale price in Walton county was $363,750 this January — 45.0% higher than last January.

3290 Burnt Pine Lane

Source: Emerald Coast Association of Realtors, Florida Realtors and National Association of Realtors

Photo Courtesy Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort (The Village) and Sandestin Real Estate (3290 Burnt Pine Lane)

DEAL Estate

DEAL Estate

that second home

Whitefish, Montana Enjoy a cozy getaway home, right on the slopes — with plenty of room for friends

By Laura Bradley

Looking for a real change of pace from life in Florida’s Panhandle? Consider investing in a nest up north. Fun, unique family memories are just a plane ride away in this fully furnished ski-in ski-out home in Whitefish, Mont. This rustic gem is just steps away from the Home Again Ski Trail & Chair 6, and for $625,000 is a spacious, affordable buy that can sleep 10 easily in 4 bedrooms with 5.5 bathrooms and an additional downstairs den with bunk beds.

Overlooking Whitefish Lake and Glacier National Park, this home’s spectacular views and proximity to the inviting Montana Quick Look slopes are sure to impress and relax List Price: $625,000 you and your guests with each return ($189.40/sq ft) trip. The large kitchen is perfect for Year Built: 2000 entertaining, and the gas fireplace is Square feet: 3,300 sure to keep everyone cozy and toasty Bedrooms: 4 after a long day on the slopes (as will Bathrooms: 5.5 the heated slate tiles). The cherry on Contact person top? A hot tub overlooking the house’s (listing agent): extraordinary mountain view.

Denise Robinson, Outside, there is a lot more to do (406) 250-4152, than just skiing: There is dogsledDenise.Robinson@ ding, snowshoeing, hot-air ballooning Nationalparksrealty.com and riding snowmobiles. In summer, enjoy hiking, mountain biking, fly fishing, white-water rafting, trout fishing, picking huckleberries, horse-back riding, championship golf, the Mountain Zip Line and a “Walk in the Tree Tops.” Throughout the year, experience amazing blue skies, pristine lakes and rivers, clear, crisp air and wildlife, while shopping and award-winning restaurants are within walking distance.

If you are interested in owning a rental property, in addition to a second home for skiing, this could be just the ticket. The house is currently rented out for 70 percent of the available nights during the ski season, and for 40 percent during the summer. When closing on the property, buyers can elect to continue or end the rental agreement.

The home is one side of a duplex, with wonderful, respectful neighbors on the other side who will make you feel welcome as you take some time off the work grind. This can become your family’s new ski resort dream home, sure to reduce stress every time. ec EmeraldCoastMagazine.com

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f.y.i.

How to Recognize a Stroke, Because Every Second Counts …

By Janice Dunlap, ARNP

t

he fact is strokes are a common occurrence in everyday life and the fourth leading cause of death in the United States. Although they are common among the elderly, strokes can happen to anyone. Recognizing when a stroke occurs and acting quickly is key to lessening the disability from a stroke.

Now, consider that 80 percent of the time a stroke can be prevented by controlling common risk factors. Taking medications prescribed for things like high blood pressure, diabetes and cholesterol, can help reduce your chance of having a stroke. Smoking, on the other hand, is a lifestyle choice that can increase your risk of a stroke.

Although we can control some of the risk factors to help reduce the chance of a stroke, it is difficult to know when one will occur and who will be affected. I had a patient who was in his 40s that had a sudden onset of numbness and tingling in his right hand as well as difficulty speaking. His only risk factor was high blood pressure, and even that was not significant. He had no family history of stroke and there were no other risk factors present … yet he suffered from a stroke.

The patient called 911 immediately and even though he could not speak, emergency services were dispatched to his home. He was at the hospital 45 minutes after the onset of symptoms and had a 99 percent recovery. His life is back to the way it was before, and that is because he acted quickly.

Many times symptoms occur on one side of the body.

Remember the signs of a stroke with the acronym FAST: Face: check for a new facial droop.

Arms: raise both arms and check for a new drift or weakness.

Speech: repeat a simple sentence and listen for new slurring or inability to say the words.

Time: if any of the above are present, call 911 immediately for medical attention.

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Unfortunately, the typical stroke victim will start to experience some numbness or tingling on one side of the body and dismiss the symptoms. Often times the person having a stroke will lay down to get some rest, and wake up to worsening symptoms. In these instances, they may have missed the window to receive the clot-busting drug called TPA. Intravenous TPA is available for patients that qualify, but it has to be administered within four and a half hours of a stroke. Not everyone is eligible for the drug, but it is the only intravenous treatment method that can help reverse the affects of a stroke.

It is crucial that you get to the hospital as soon as possible after a stroke. Early medical treatment is key to minimizing the disabilities caused by a stroke. If you experience any signs or symptoms of a stroke call 911 or go to the hospital immediately. It is important to understand that you should not try to schedule an appointment with the doctor, but instead go directly to the emergency room.

When a stroke victim arrives at the emergency room they can expect to receive prompt intervention with a CAT scan of the head, lab work and an evaluation from a physician. If a stroke has occurred, the patient can expect to remain in the hospital for three to five days, or longer, if the stroke is severe.

Symptoms of a stroke include: • Numbness or weakness of the face, arms or leg (usually on one side of the body) • Confusion or trouble understanding • Trouble seeing • Dizziness, trouble walking or loss of balance and coordination • Severe headache These symptoms will appear suddenly, so it is important to act fast if you or someone you know has experienced any of them. When it comes to recovering from a stroke, every second counts. ec Janice Dunlap is an advanced practice registered nurse with White-Wilson NeuroScience Center.

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flavor

How Best to Wine Fest Local wine experts tip us off on how to best sip and savor all of those samples

By Thomas J. Monigan

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s

Photos courtesy Erin Ledbetter Photography

pringtime on the Emerald Coast signals the start of our annual opportunity to enjoy all sorts of festivals, and you just might be surprised to learn how many of these events are based on tasting wine.

April features the South Walton Beaches Wine & Food Festival, the Destin Charity Wine Auction, the Sandestin Wine Festival and the Pensacola Wine Festival.

In May there is the Perdido Key Wine and Art Festival.

And there’s more later on in the calendar.

September brings the Rosemary Beach Uncorked Festival, with the Mexico Beach Art & Wine Festival in October and Seaside’s Seeing Red Wine Festival in November.

The sheer size of these events might prove just a bit intimidating. Hundreds and hundreds of different labels represent multiple varieties and styles of wine, both domestic and imported.

With this in mind, EC magazine reached out to four local wine experts for some tips on how to create the best experience at a wine festival. Each has spent decades building his credentials as someone who truly knows the veritas when it comes to vino.

Our quartet, listed alphabetically, consists of: Chan Cox, owner and operator of nine Chan’s Wine World locations between Pensacola and Panama City; Kevin Moran, managing partner at Crush 30-A Wine Bar; Jake Purvis, Destin store director for Kelley’s Beach Liquors and Wine Merchants; Todd Reber, managing partner of Vintij Wine Bar. So we asked them, with so many wines to taste, where do you start?

“It depends on how serious you are about the event and about the wine,” Cox said. “A lot of people go to wine festivals not because they’re serious wine connoisseurs, but because it’s an event, it’s a fun place to be. It’s like going to the Kentucky Derby, it’s not about the horse race. It’s about being in a setting that’s fun and different and energetic.

Wine events are bubbling up all along the Emerald Coast. Rosemary Beach Uncorked stages its event throughout the town, which gives festival goers a chance to sample wines paired with tastes that showcase the town’s restaurants.

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flavor Wine World in Grand Boulevard explores the love affair of marrying wine and chocolate at a tasting event held near Valentine’s Day.

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At just under $20, this 2010 LOLA Pinot Noir from Russian River is a great bang for your buck; Pedro Marchevsky owns BenMarco winery in Mendoza, Argentina. It currently makes two wines, the V.M.S., which is short for Vineyard Master Selection and Malbec (below) which he says “is in the soul of all true Argentines.”

zandra wolfgram (Wine & Chocolate at Chan's in Grand Boulevard); Photos courtesy Erin Ledbetter Photography

WHEN BEST TO fEST March 22–23 Perdido Key Wine and Art Festival April 19 Pensacola Wine Festival 25–28 South Walton Beaches Wine & Food Festival 26–28 Destin Charity Wine Auction 18–21 Sandestin Wine Festival October 5–6 Pensacola Beach Art & Wine Festival 12 Mexico Beach Art & Wine Festival 19 Rosemary Beach Uncorked Festival November 7–10 Taste of the Beach/Seeing Red Wine Festival at Seaside

“But if you are going to this festival as a learning experience and to enjoy yourself, then I would advise prior to the event, contacting the organizers and getting a tasting sheet,” he adds.

“They all have tasting sheets.

That way you can find out what wines are being tasted.

“Whatever your preference is, if your goal is to find different kinds of wines that appeal to you, you take that tasting guide and you search out those wines. There will be table numbers, with wines listed for that table, so you can literally map out your plans for the day.”

With tasting sheet in hand, is there a way to prioritize? Should you start with whites and work up to reds?

“If I ask my palate to transition back and forth between different styles, it will make it much more difficult to discern the differences,” Moran says. “So it’s better to go with sparkling, white and red, and try to leave the sweet wines until the end. If you’ve been tasting something sweet, with a lot of residual sugar, and then you’re tasting a delicate white wine, you’re doing it a disservice.”

So where does champagne fit?

“It really doesn’t matter,” Cox says. “Generally, champagne’s got good acidity, so it’s an uplifting kind of wine. You can do champagnes after red wines. I always love to have a glass of sparkling wine as an aperitif. I like sparkling wine to begin.”

Purvis is even more enthusiastic.

“Anytime, any place for anything,” he said. “I’m a huge bubbles fan. I think it’s a nice aperitif, and a nice wine to finish up the night with. I think the bubbles and the acidity in champagne can awaken your palate, and then at the end of the day it can revive you and wake you up.”

Then there’s always the issue of having your palate becoming fatigued.

“It’s much better if you go about it strategically and stay within the categories,” Moran says. “If you jump around, your palate can tire out much more quickly. It’s also a good idea if you drink a half-glass of water every five to 10 tastings. That’s also a way to avoid intoxication.”

Reber agrees, and he had a definite opinion when we brought up the issue of spitting versus swallowing.

“Professionals never swallow,” he says. “You swish it around in your mouth in a mouth washing way — what you’re what trying to do is bring in oxygen with no more than an ounce of wine.”

Moran is on the same page.

“People are so apprehensive about spitting but if you don’t, you find yourself prematurely intoxicated,” he says. “And that impedes your ability to make a correct assessment of wines after that. There might be 100 to 200 wines at an event, and 40 you want to taste. If you swallow a dozen of them that will intoxicate you.”

Whether you choose to spit or swallow while tasting at a festival, what you eat earlier in the day and while you’re at the event can be important.

“Make sure you have a rich breakfast that has some fat content that can impede that absorption of alcohol,” Moran says. “Something like bacon and eggs or a bagel and cream cheese.”

Purvis adds: “The more fat you have in your system the more absorption there is in your system, and hydration is huge. With all that sun and walking around, get a nice spring water, because tap water has minerals in it and chlorine. That’s why you never want to rinse with tap water. Always rise with wine or spring water.”

Festivals also offer the opportunity to broaden your tasting horizons, and with this in mind, we asked our experts about wines that are riding the crest of current trends.

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“Malbecs from Argentina and South African wines are really really hot right now,” Cox says. “They’re produced in more of what we call ‘international style.’ They’re right in the middle — not too dry and not too sweet. They’re kind of appealing to everybody.”

Moran pointed to the increasing popularity of Pinot Noirs, especially from the Pacific Northwest.

“Oregon has really evolved as a winemaking source,” he says. “There’s a larger number of wineries and people involved. Also, the weather has evolved — it’s not as wet and rainy there and they’re making better and more consistent wines.”

Known as the red wine that goes so well with food, why is Pinot Noir more popular then ever?

“Stylistically it’s softer and an easier wine to drink,” Moran says. “It’s lower in tannins and alcohol content and not as demanding on the palate. Twenty years ago you’d be hard pressed to find the array of Pinot Noir that’s available today.”

Without hesitation Purvis pipes: “Spain for sure. The quality and price point — what you get in the bottle for the money is unbelievable. To me, in the United States, Paso Robles (in Northern California) is a region where there’s a lot of great wines.”

EC “winos” can take heart. “I think the era of the ‘wine snob’ is dying — and I think that people should not be intimidated or ashamed about their wine knowledge. They should just be adventurous and not be afraid to ask questions — find what you like and then find something else you like.” ec 112 April–May 2013

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Photos by Scott Holstein (Wine tasting sidebar) and courtesy Erin Ledbetter Photography

flavor

s

Wine lovers linger with friends at Onano Neighborhood Café on Main Street during last year's Rosemary Beach Uncorked; This classic, romantic Italian red wine from the southern hills of Montalchino pairs well with game and aged cheeses.

is for Savoring Every Wine Sample 1

See

Observe the color and clarity of the wine. Is it clear, brilliant, cloudy or dull? Notice the depth of color. How is the body? If the “legs” trickle down the side of the glass slowly, it has more body.

2

1

Swirl

Swirling wine within a glass exposes it to a larger surface area. This increases wine’s contact with air and intensifies its aroma.

3

Smell

The smell is also known as the nose, bouquet or aroma.

Common aromas include different fruits, spices, herbs and flowers. Be sure to smell the wine several times. A wine with great complexity will offer different aromas and several scents at one time. In fact, there may be hundreds of smells in one glass of wine.

4

3

Sip

The overall “taste” of a wine is a combination of smells and flavors, so don’t skip the smelling stage. Different parts of your tongue taste different things. Roll the wine across your taste buds.

Keep in mind a balance of body fullness, acidity, tannin, sweetness and fruitiness.

5

2

4

Swallow

After swallowing, notice the aftertaste, or finish. The better the wine, the more defined the finish. A good finish will stay longer on your palate.

5

source: winetasting.com EmeraldCoastMagazine.com April–May 2013

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dining The Key

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

Best of the Emerald Coast 2011 Winner $ Breakfast $$ Lunch $$$ Dinner

Outdoor Dining Live Music Inexpensive Moderately Expensive Expensive

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

Blue Mountain Beach

Grecian Gardens Restaurant Mediterranean. Traditional Greek cuisine served in an open-air atmosphere perfect for special occasions or parties. Open daily 11 a.m.–9 p.m.

3375 W. Hwy. 30A, 850-267-3011. $$ l d Marie's Bistro & Bar Mediterranean. Enjoy made-to-order seafood, steak, pasta as well as sushi in a casual atmosphere. Dine in, carry out, drive through and catering. Full bar. Serving lunch 11 a.m.–2 p.m. Tues–Fri and dinner at 5 p.m. Tues–Sun. 2260 W. County Highway 30A. 850-278-6856.$$ l d

Inspirememories

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 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

Seagars.com Enjoy a fabulous evening at Seagar’s which boasts a private reserve wine list featuring over 600 labels and the finest prime beef and fresh seafood on the Gulf coast.

Reservations recommended.

850-622-1500

Capt. Dave’s on the Gulf Seafood. Enjoy delicious fresh seafood dishes. Open daily 4:30 p.m.

3796 Hwy. 98, 850-837-2627. $ d Ciao Bella Pizza Da Guglielmo Italian. Authentic Italian pizza, pasta, salads and more. Open daily 11 a.m.

29 E. Hwy. 98, Silver Sands, 850-654-3040. $$ l d CRAB ISLAND CANTINA Mexican. Latin inspired Mexican cuisine in a casual waterfront dining atmosphere offering the best views of Destin Harbor. Mon–Thu 11 a.m.–10 p.m.

Fri–Sat 11 a.m.–11 p.m. Sun 11 a.m.–9 p.m. 2 Harbor Blvd. 850-424-7417. $$ l d

PRIME

STEAKS

&

SEAFOOD

H I LT O N S A N D E S T I N B E A C H G O L F R E S O R T & S P A

OFFICIAL RESERVATION PARTNER

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on the menu These tasty bites — some super healthy, some just downright indulgent — from restaurant menus found all along the Emerald Coast are sure to kick a curb in your appetite this spring.

Breakfast

Cranky J’s Coffee Shop, Niceville

A stop in this cute shop will surely crank up your engine. We noshed on a freshly baked White Chocolate Raspberry Scone and paired it with a piping hot cup of White Chocolate Mocha Latte and our day shifted right into first gear. $4.70

Lunch

Ali’s Bistro, Fort Walton Beach

Sometimes it’s refreshing to have a light bite for lunch. We tucked into Ali’s Spinach Salad topped with carmelized onions, sliced hard-boiled egg and feta cheese in balsamic vinaigrette, and we were feeling healthy and happy the rest of the day. $9.95

Dinner

Pickle's Grass-Fed Beef Burger

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Owners Heavenly and Bill Dawson claim to have “world famous burgers and shakes,” and after feasting on the Grass-Fed Beef Burger, a 6-ounce Georgia-raised beef patty served on a toasted brioche bun with lettuce and tomato, we are not going to argue. It took the couple some time to find just the right farm that could meet their expectations, and we are so glad they did. To Pickle's, which celebrates 20 years at Seaside this year, we utter, Moo-i Bien! $9

Photo by Shelly Swanger PHOTOGRAPHY

Pickle’s, Seaside

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

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

663 Emerald Coast Pkwy. 850-837-8333. $$ l d Dewey Destin’s HarborSide ★ Seafood. One of Destin’s most popular restaurants serves up charm and award-winning seafood in a quaint house overlooking the scenic Destin Harbor. Open daily 11 a.m.–8 p.m. 202 Harbor Blvd., 850-837-7525. $$ l d Dewey Destin Seafood Restaurant & Market ★ Seafood. True local charm in an outdoor setting and some of the freshest seafood around. Open 11 a.m.– 8 p.m. 9 Calhoun Ave., 850-837-7575. $$$ B l d Donut Hole Bakery Cafe American. Head to the Donut Hole for an outof-this-world breakfast or savory lunch — don’t forget the cinnamon raisin bread. Open 24 hours.

635 E. Hwy. 98, 850-837-8824. $ B l

Emerald Grande Resort Grande Vista bar and grill Seafood. Fresh seafood, steak, pasta, salads, sandwiches and more. Indoor and outdoor dining available. Full bar. Open daily 7 a.m.–10 p.m.

Located in HarborWalk Village. 10 Harbor Blvd., next to the Marler Bridge, 850-337-8100. $$$ B l

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 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 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

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

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

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

Johnny O’Quigley’s ★ American. Award-winning steak, seafood and

Pepito’s ★ Mexican. Voted Best Mexican on the Emerald

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 EmeraldCoastMagazine.com April–May 2013

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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 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 award-winning wines.

Mon–Sat 5:30–10 p.m. Sun 5:30–9 p.m. Silver Shells Resort. 1500 Emerald Coast Pkwy., 850-337-5108. $$$ d Sarah k’s gourmet ★ Gourmet Take-out. Chef-crafted, ready-to-heat cuisine. Jumbo lump crab cakes and fresh chicken salad are the house specialties. Open at 11 a.m.

34940 Hwy. 98, 850-269-0044. $ l d Tuscany Italian Bistro ★ Italian. Chef and owner, Guglielmo Ianni, prepares authentic Northern Italian cuisine using the freshest of ingredients, choice meats, fresh seafood and garden vegetables. Hours TBD. 36178 Emerald Coast Pkwy. 850-650-2451. $$ d

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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 Helen Back ★ Pizza. The world’s finest hand-tossed pizza and cold beer in a sports bar atmosphere. Locations in Pensacola, Navarre, Crestview and Valparaiso. Open daily 11 a.m.– 4 a.m. 114 Amberjack Dr. 850-796-1451. $ l d High Tide ★ Seafood. Delicious seafood dishes, award-winning gumbo and fresh Apalachicola oysters served for lunch and dinner. Mon–Sat 11 a.m. to 9:30 p.m.

1203 Miracle Strip Pkwy. 850-244-2624. $ Magnolia Grill ★ Steak, Seafood and Italian. Steak, seafood, pasta, soups, salads and desserts. Lunch Mon–Fri 11 a.m.–2 p.m. Dinner Mon–Sat, open at 5 p.m.

Closed Sun. 157 SE Brooks St., 850-302-0266. $$ l

d

Old Bay Steamer Seafood. Fresh, steamed and grilled seafood served in a lively atmosphere. Dinner served daily from 4 p.m. No reservations. 102 Santa Rosa Blvd., 850-664-2795. $$$ d Pandora’s Steak and Seafood. Early evening specials weekdays 5–6 p.m. Happy Hour weekdays 5–7 p.m. Weekdays 5–10 p.m. Weekends 5–11 p.m.

1226 Santa Rosa Blvd., 850-244-8669. $$$ d Pranzo Italian Ristorante Italian. The Montalto family has been serving classic and contemporary Italian cuisine in Fort Walton Beach for nearly 30 years. Dinner Mon–Sat, 5 p.m. 1222 Santa Rosa Blvd., 850-244-9955. $ d Sealand Steak and Seafood. Serving American cuisine as

well as Thai offerings in a homey atmosphere. Lunch Sun 11 a.m. until. Dinner Tues–Sat from 4:30 p.m.

47 SE Miracle Strip Pkwy., 850-244-0044. $$$ B d Staff’s Steak, Seafood and Pasta. In operation for more than 100 years, Staff’s is the oldest 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 panseared grouper from the open kitchen. Open 6 p.m. daily.

80 E. Hwy. 30A, Grayton Beach, 850-231-9167. $$ d

Miramar Beach

Aegean Restaurant ★ Greek. Sip an ouzo at the beautiful stone bar before savoring the flavors of the Mediterranean at this authentic Greek restaurant. Breakfast 8–11 a.m. Lunch 11 a.m.–4 p.m. Dinner 4–9 p.m. 11225 Emerald Coast Pkwy., 850-460-2728. $$ B l d Another Broken Egg café – On the Bay ★ Breakfast. Breakfast all day, plus sandwiches, patty melts, specials, soups, salads and desserts. Open daily from 7 a.m.–3 p.m. The Village of Baytowne Wharf, 850-622-2050. $ B Bistro Bijoux ★ Steak and Seafood. Coastal cuisine with a New Orleans flair. Fresh seafood daily. Featuring our signature dish — “Black Skillet” filet mignon topped with a tempura-fried lobster tail. Open daily 5–10 p.m. Village of Baytowne Wharf, 850-622-0760. $$$ d Cabana Café.

American. A casual poolside restaurant serving made-to-order salads, savory soups and chowders, deli-style sandwiches (with homemade bread!), savory build-your-own burgers and quesadillas, stone-fired pizza, pasta and more. Sunday brunch.

Full bar. Open 11 a.m.–2 a.m. Mon–Sat and Sundays from 9 a.m.–2 a.m. Happy Hour 11 a.m.–7 p.m.

Karaoke and live entertainment. Located on the

ground floor of Ariel Dunes in Seacape Resort, 112 Seascape Drive. Ask about the locals discount.

850-424-3574. $$ l d Cantina Laredo ★ Mexican. Boasting a contemporary décor and fiery flavor, the new addition to Grand Boulevard offers gourmet twists on Mexican favorites. Save room for dessert, and check out the Sunday brunch.

Sun–Thu 11 a.m.–10 p.m. Fri–Sat 11 a.m.–11 p.m.

585 Grand Blvd., 850-654-5649. $$ B l d Carrabba’s italian grill Italian. Flavorful dishes, including calamari, chicken Marsala, fresh fish, seafood and grilled steaks. Open Sun 11 a.m.–10 p.m. Mon–Thu 4–10:30 p.m. Fri–Sat 4–11:30 p.m. 10562 W. Hwy. 98, 850-837-1140. $$ d Fat Clemenza’s ★ Italian. Feel like part of the family as you enjoy homemade classical Italian cuisine. Lunch Mon–Fri 11 a.m.–2 p.m. Dinner Mon–Wed 5–9:30 p.m.,Thu–Sat 5–10 p.m. Holiday Plaza/Hwy. 98, 850-650-5980. $$ l d Elephant Walk (Reopening in May!) American. Rediscover the signature dish, Grouper Elizabeth, and relive the nostalgia and charm that is the incomparable Elephant Walk. Enjoy attentive service, excellent continental cuisine, a dynamic wine list, and panoramic views of the Gulf. Serving lunch seasonally and dinner daily 5–10 p.m. Beachside at Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort, 9300 Emerald Coast Pkwy West. 850-267-4800. $$$ l d 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. $$$ l d The Melting Pot Fondue. Dip into something different and enjoy an interactive, hands-on, four-course dining experience with a cheese fondue, salad, entrée and chocolate fondue dessert. Open Sun–Thu 5–10 p.m. Fri–Sat 5–11 p.m. 11394 Hwy. 98., 850-269-2227. $$$ d Mitchell’s Fish Market Seafood. Chef-driven dishes such as Cedar Roasted Atlantic Salmon or Hoisin-Glazed Yellow Fin Tuna.

Lunch Mon–Sat 11 a.m.–4 p.m. Sun 11 a.m.–3 p.m. Dinner

a taste for ...

Tupelo Honey

For those sweet on it, the gold standard for honey is Tupelo honey.

Bees make this rare honey for only two weeks in the spring when the White Ogeechee Tupelo Trees (nyssa ogeche) bloom along the Ogeechee River, the Apalachicola and the Chattahoochee River Basins of Northwest Florida.

These lush river valleys are the only place in the world where Tupelo honey is produced commercially.

When the trees bloom in April and May, honeybees are lured to their flowers and return to their busy hives with nectar to produce their liquid treasure.

Pure Tupelo honey has a light amber golden color with a slightly green cast. With buttery undertones and a mellow, clean-finishing sweetness Tupelo honey complements a variety of foods. Honey produced from the White Tupelo is the only honey that will not granulate. Because it contains a high ratio of fructose to glucose, this honey can be a good source of energy, with less of a “sugar crash” than other sweeteners. Because of its low dextrose level, doctors even recommend it to some diabetic patients.

You can purchase Tupelo honey at most grocers, order it online or, even better, buy it from the locals who harvest it, including Ken Holman of Destin. For his homemade honey, call (850) 259-1561.

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dining Mon–Thu 4–10 p.m. Fri–Sat 4–11 p.m. Sun 3–9 p.m.

Grand Boulevard Sandestin, 850-650-2484. $$ l d P.F. Chang’s China Bistro ★ Asian. Sample crunchy lettuce wraps or Chinese favorites like Kung Pao Chicken in a chic atmosphere.

Open Sun–Thu 11 a.m.–10 p.m. Fri–Sat 11 a.m.–11 p.m.

10640 Grand Blvd., 850-269-1806. $$ l d Pepito’s ★ Mexican. Voted Best Mexican on the Emerald Coast.

Authentic Mexican cuisine, delicious margaritas and weekly specials. Open daily 11 a.m.–10 p.m.

11225 Hwy 98, 850-269-7788. $$ l d Poppy’s Seafood Factory Seafood. Enjoy fresh seafood, steak and poultry dishes with a view of the bay. Open 11 a.m.–9 p.m. daily.

Village of Baytowne Wharf, 850-351-1996. $$$ l d Royal Orchid ★ Thai. Escape to Thailand at this authentic Thai restaurant. Sink into a traditional sunken table surrounded by pillows or dine American style at a table or booth.

Thu–Tue 11 a.m.–9:30 p.m. Closed Wed. 11275 Emerald Coast Pkwy., 850-650-2555. $$ l d Rum Runners American. Caribbean/coastal/Mediterranean menu with sandwiches, seafood, steaks, chicken and pasta. Open daily for lunch and dinner. Village of Baytowne Wharf, 850-267-8117. $$ l d Seagar’s Prime Steaks and Seafood ★ Steak and Seafood. Premium steak, fresh seafood and caviar. Open 6 p.m. daily. Hilton Sandestin.

4000 S. Sandestin Blvd., 850-622-1500. $$$ d

Tommy Bahama’s Restaurant & Bar ★ Caribbean. Get a taste of the islands with jerk spices, fresh fish and the best desserts on the coast, as voted by readers of Emerald Coast Magazine.

Open Sun–Thu 11 a.m.–11 p.m. Fri–Sat 11 a.m.– midnight. 525 Grand Blvd., 850-654-1743. $$ l d Vin’Tij Wine Boutique & Bistro ★ American. Traditional favorites and unique house dishes. Open daily 11 a.m.–midnight. 10859 W. Emerald Coast Pkwy., Suite 103, 850-650-9820. $ld

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. $l d Basmati’s Asian Cuisine & Sushi Asian. Asian dishes and full sushi bar. Open 4 p.m. daily. 3295 W. Hwy. 30A, 850-267-3028. $$ d Café Tango American. Seafood, poultry and pasta served with specialty sauces. Homemade desserts. Open Tue–Sun 5–10 p.m. 14 Vicki St., 850-267-0054. $$$ d Fire American. With New Orleans natives in the kitchen,

2012

BEST HIBACHI

18 Hibachi Tables Sushi Bar ~ Private Dining Happy Hour Specials 4–6

Sushi ~ Take Out Authentic Japanese Cuisine

850.351.1006

Located in the Village of Baytowne Wharf ™

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JAPANESE STEAKHOUSE & SUSHI BAR

850.650.4688 or 850.650.4689 34745 Emerald Coast Parkway / Destin

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

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

Louis Louis American. The only thing that isn’t over the top at Louis Louis is the menu pricing. The Moulin Rouge-inspired interior décor is outrageously wonderful.

Dine outside or in. The menu has six tasty items, from crab cakes, panned chicken, blackened fish and a few pastas. Mon–Sun 5–10 p.m. 35 Mussett Bayou Rd., 850-267-1500. $ d VKI Japanese Steak House & Sushi Bar Asian. Using the freshest ingredients this Japanese gem serves up tasty Habachi-style stir-fry meals of steak, seafood and chicken prepared at your table as well as artfully prepared sashimi and sushi rolls. Open daily. Lunch 11 a.m.–3 p.m. Dinner 4:30–9:30 p.m. 4552 Highway 98, Santa Rosa Beach, 850-267-2555. $$ l d Vue on 30a American. Seafood, beef, poultry, lamb, veal, pastas, soups and bisques.

Open Tues–Fri 11 a.m.–2:30 p.m., Wed–Sat 5–9 p.m. 4801 W. Hwy. 30A, 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. $ l d Bud & Alley’s Restaurant American. Serving fresh seafood, steak and vegetarian options. Open 11:30 a.m.

Mon–Fri. Roof bar open 11:30 p.m.–2 a.m. in summer. 2236 E. Hwy. 30A, 850-231-5900. $$$ l d Café Thirty-A Seafood. Seafood, lamb, duck, filet mignon and pizza. Open daily 5 p.m.

3899 E. Hwy. 30A, 850-231-2166. $$ d Crush American. Crush features an extensive wine menu, sushi and small plates. Open daily for lunch and dinner, noon–10 p.m. 25 Central Sq., 850-468-0703. $$ l d Great SOuthern Café Southern. Jim Shirley serves up Southern comfort food with a twist. Open daily for breakfast 8–11 a.m., lunch 11 a.m.–4 p.m., dinner 4–11:30 p.m. 83 Central Sq., 850-231-7327. $$ B l d La Botana Tapas. Small plates of Latin-inspired cuisine served in a casual but elegant atmosphere. Wine bar. Lunch and dinner Mon–Fri 4–11 p.m., Sat–Sun 11 a.m.–11 p.m. 4281 E. Hwy. 30A, 850-231-0716. $$ l d La Cocina Mexican Grill & Bar Mexican. Traditional Tex-Mex with a coastal twist. Open daily 11 a.m.–3 p.m. and 5–9 p.m. Bar open until 10 p.m. 10343 E. Hwy. 30A, 850-231-4021. $$ l d Old Florida Fish House and Bar Seafood. Rustic seafood restaurant featuring a new take on old seafood favorites.

Full bar. Dinner daily 5 p.m. 5235 Hwy. 30A, 850-534-3045. $$ d V Seagrove Restaurant Seafood. Chef David Cunningham serves up fresh seafood and produce that is locally sourced in a resort casual atmosphere. Open Tue–Sat at 6 p.m. Closed Sundays. 2743 E. County Highway 30A, Seagrove, 850-468-0973. $$$ d Seagrove Village Market Café Steak and Seafood. Enjoy surf-and-turf and a glass of wine, then shop for gifts and souvenirs in the adjacent gift shop. Open 10:30 a.m.–8:30 p.m. daily.

3004 S. County Rd. 395, 850-231-5736. $$ l d ec EmeraldCoastMagazine.com April–May 2013

121

the last word

A Nod From

Lincoln

By Elvin C. Bell

d

uring the early years of President Ronald Reagan’s administration, I spent about a third of my time working in the White House, with the rest spent in the Pentagon.

But Sunday mornings were always special occasions because I took an early Metro ride to New York Circle NW, which was three blocks from the White House, so I could enter the sanctuary of the First Presbyterian Church. If I got there early enough, I could sit in either of my two favorite pews — the Abraham Lincoln pew on the second row up front, or a parlor side pew next to the framed wall display of Lincoln’s original draft of the Emancipation Proclamation.

During those years, I spent a lot of time reading and re-reading Lincoln’s hand-written words that were a decisive step forward in ending the practice of slavery in the United States.

On Tuesday, Jan. 1, 2013, we celebrated the 151st anniversary of Abraham Lincoln’s signature on the Emancipation Proclamation.

The history of how the proclamation found its way to the church and its coveted display position on the parlor wall is repeated many times each Sunday by church historians.

After Lincoln was inaugurated, First Lady Mary took her children to the church and they were warmly greeted by the pastor, Dr. Phineas D. Gurley, the former Chaplain of the United States Senate. Mrs. Lincoln inquired of Dr. Gurley about renting a pew, which was a customary tradition at that time for people who could afford one.

Upon checking the availability of pews, Gurley discovered that one had just been vacated by a tenant who had moved back to Pennsylvania. By coincidence, that tenant was James Buchanan, the 15th president and Lincoln’s predecessor.

Mrs. Lincoln paid the pew’s one-year rental fee of $50.

She also explained that her family, along with a driver and two security agents would arrive for Sunday church services in a horse drawn carriage.

By noon the following day, Gurley had completed the arrangements for securing the carriage.

The 40-inch high hitching post the pastor installed is still in its original position on the west side of the church at 1313 New York Avenue NW. The proclamation itself also has an interesting origin.

President Lincoln was taught by his father to always stand in church during the pastor’s prayer. So sometimes, when Lincoln

was late in attending church, he and his family avoided the distraction of walking down the long aisle to the second row pew and standing during the prayer, by sitting in the pastor’s windowenclosed study in the rear of the church.

In early 1862, while Lincoln was sitting in the pastor’s study during a Sunday service, Gurley gave a spirited, rational and strongly worded sermon on why slavery must end.

Lincoln took some blank papers from the pastor’s desk and took notes of the sermon.

When Lincoln returned to the White House, he hurried to his study upstairs and used several of the pastor’s words, phrases, clauses and descriptions while writing the original draft of the Emancipation Proclamation.

It is that draft, with Gurley’s proud blessing, that is displayed with sacred honor on the parlor wall.

To sit in a pew near the document, a visitor should enter the church sanctuary and take an immediate right turn. Step to the parlor wall and turn left. The display is about eight feet ahead on the right.

The Lincoln stained glass window is directly across the sanctuary on the other side.

High above the church is the Lincoln Memorial Tower with its belfry and four-sided clock.

When you leave the church, look up and listen to the beautiful chimes.

Lincoln died on a Saturday morning, the day before Easter Sunday, in April 1865.

At Mrs. Lincoln’s request, Gurley officiated at funeral services in the First Presbyterian Church, at the capitol and in the White House. The pastor also rode on the train beside Lincoln’s coffin the entire way to Springfield, Ill., then presided at the burial service.

Over my years in Washington, I found that one of the best ways to honor Abraham Lincoln was to visit his Memorial late at night, around 1 or 2 a.m. It’s quiet then. The security guard will observe from his booth but will not bother you. And there are no crowds.

Just walk up to Abe and look at his face. Tell him how grateful you are for all he did.

If you listen and look carefully, you just might see him nod and smile. I did. Several times. ec

Elvin C. Bell, who served three tours in the White House, is a retired USAF colonel who now lives in Destin. His 10th book, “The Event Makers I’ve Known,” is currently in bookstores.

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