Emerald Coast Magazine- October/November 2014 by Rowland Publishing, Inc.

The Emer ald Coast Maga zine

FAB FALL

Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s autumn on the EC! Time to celebrate with fresh fall fashions, festive fetes, fitness trends and, of course, the Best of the Emerald Coast!

Fashion mavens express themselves through design

Raising the Barre: Ballet barre-based fitness is a kick

The 2014 votes are in for the Best of the Emerald Coast!

Add A Little

Color To Your Life!

Alex Sepkus Trunk Show October 31st & November 1st

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AT T O R N E YS AT L AW

INSIGHT INTEGRITY INNOVATION

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REMEMBERING THE PAST, SEEING THE FUTURE

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The Emerald Coast Magazine October + November 2014

contents Make a wish! With a little help from the talented artists at Abrakadoodle, creative kids like Presley Pitts show us just how to “face” a birthday party in style. No surprise, this arty organization won the 2014 Best of the Emerald Coast award for Best Place for a Kid’s Birthday Party.

FEATUREs

Best of the Emerald Coast 2014 Winners

EC reader poll presents the BEST of the BEST on the EC. By chay D. Baxley

on 70 Canines the Catwalk

Fashionable furry friends add plenty of (bow) wow factor to these fab fall finds. By Rosanne Dunkelberger

The Business of the Arts

In this competitive industry, it’s survival of the most resourceful.

Kansas Pitts

By Zandra Wolfgram

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com October–November 2014

PHOTO + FILM STUDIOS

R E A L E S TAT E & AERIAL FILMS

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contents in the e.c. 21 Snapshot Look who is Destin-ed to be a champion. 22 Well-Worded A word with poet Esther Hurwitz. 28 Made in the EC Two fabulous fashion designers who call the EC home. 33 Historicity The place to go to learn something you didn’t know about Destin. 37 Scene The EC is buzzing with news. Read it here.

happenings 42 Calendar Autumn means it’s time for festive fall fetes. 56 Social Studies Look who we’ve “scene” out and about lately.

the good life 89 Eudaimonia Jackacuda’s has a line on tracking your seafood. 90 In Motion How to raise the “barre” on your fitness routine. 92 Habitat This column is not for those who like to slouch on the couch. 107 Gardening Armadillos in the garden, oh my! 108 FYI We “kick” around some ideas for business start-ups. 114 Going Places Enchanting Rovinj, Croatia

120 Flavor Crazy for comfort food? We tell you how to get it delivered to your door! 129 Dining Your guide to dining out on the Emerald Coast. 130 On the Menu … Bud & Alley’s famous crab cakes will have you feeling anything but … crabby. 134 A Taste For … crazy, healthy kale.

A WORD WITH YOU 14 From the Publisher 16 Editor’s Note 138 The Last Word

Special Section 100 Deal Estate

130 10 October–November 2014

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Like us at facebook.com/emeraldcoast

Photos by Matt Burke (21), Sandestin Beach and Golf Resort (42), Jack Gardner Photography (130) and American Leather Marketing (92)

41 Spotlight An artful celebration to kick off the fall season.

Three great restaurants on the beach in Seaside, Florida 850.231.3113

850.231.5900

850.231.4781 EmeraldCoastMagazine.com Octoberâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;November 2014

Vol. 15, No. 5 October–November 2014 The Emerald Coast Magazine

President/Publisher

Brian E. Rowland EDITORIAL

SALES AND MARKETING

Director of Editorial Services Linda Kleindienst

Marketing and Sales Manager McKenzie Burleigh

Editor Zandra Wolfgram

Director of New Business Daniel Parisi

Senior Staff Writer Jason Dehart

Ad Services Coordinator Lisa Sostre

Staff Writers Chay D. Baxley, Lynda Belcher

Sales Executives Rhonda Lynn Murray, Darla Harrison, Tanya Heath, Tracy Mulligan, Paula Sconiers, Alice Watts, Drew Gregg Westling

Contributing Writers Wendy Anguiano, Lauren Gillespie, Janie Harris, Lis King, Martha J. LaGuardia-Kotite, Audrey Post, Samantha Rhodes, Paisley Rose, Lori Saczynski Editorial Interns Janie Harris, Matthew Hooper, Mikaela McShane, Kate Mueller, Samantha Rhodes, Ana Stolica, Megan Williams Production Specialist Melinda Lanigan

CREATIVE Creative Director Lawrence Davidson Production Manager/ Network Administrator Daniel Vitter Senior Art Director Saige Roberts Art Director Jennifer Ekrut Publication Designers Shruti Shah, Rebecca Sumerall Advertising Designers Jillian Fry, Amanda Hartsfield Staff Photographer Matt Burke Contributing Photographers Mari Darr~Welch, Jack Gardner, Robert Gilliard, Blake Greene, Stephen Hamilton, Scott Holstein, Katrice Howell, Justin King, Janice LeCocq, David O’Connor/RISD, Charlie Padgett, Modus Photography, Mark Pasternack, Kay Phelan, Kansas Pitts, Lori Saczynski, Jacqueline Ward Images, Chase Yakaboski

Marketing and Sales assistant Christie Green

OPERATIONS Administrative Services Manager Melissa Tease Events AND MEDIA Coordinator Lynda Belcher Special Projects Coordinator Kerri Bryan Staff accountant Josh Faulds Accounting assistant Tabby Hamilton Receptionist Tristin Kroening

WEB Digital Services Manager Carlin Trammel Digital Services Coordinator Jennifer Ireland Digital Services Producer Chelsea Moore Emerald Coast Magazine emeraldcoastmagazine.com facebook.com/emeraldcoast twitter.com/emeraldcoastmag instagram.com/emeraldcoastmag pinterest.com/emeraldcoastmag youtube.com/user/emeraldcoastmag Rowland Publishing rowlandpublishing.com

SUBSCRIPTIONS

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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.

S CL OTH

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One Year (6 issues) is $30 Call (850) 878-0554 or go online to emeraldcoastmagazine.com.

Editorial Office 1932 Miccosukee Road, Tallahassee, FL, 32308

2012, 2013

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 October 2014 Emerald Coast Magazine Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is prohibited.

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from the publisher So True-isms

Do you have moments to share from your life’s ups and downs? Whether it be your business or personal life, there are situations and experiences that often occur that can either bring a chuckle and smile to your face or a disappointed frown. After running through the many such experiences that have passed through my swing zone, I did a poll of friends and associates who added many more. You may not relate to them all, however my bet would be that as you read most of them a name or situation will immediately flash across your personal radar screen.

▪ That pair of shoes you cannot part with because they are just so darn comfortable. ▪ That one red ant colony that you’ve spent $50 on to eradicate with “guaranteed” products — only to find the red posse raised its mound in another inconvenient location. ▪ That neighbor who is always happy to feed the cat or water the plants — and is the first one over if you need help. ▪ The packrat neighbors have four or six cars, a boat and a garage that are stacked floor to ceiling with “stuff.” They barely take care of the yard and just don’t get that it’s a “neighbor”hood. ▪ That board member on the homeowners’ association that has made it his or her life’s mission to hold every homeowner up to the fine print of every covenant of the HOA handbook. ▪ The friend who always just accepts you for who you are, no matter what.

▪ A first-time meeting with one of your kid’s friends that your sixth sense says is destined for nothing but trouble, yet the child’s parents think he or she walks on water. ▪ That one traffic light you pass through nearly every day that is red 99 percent of the time.

Scott Holstein

▪ That one song that brings you back to the happiest, or maybe the saddest, time of your life.

▪ That one postman, police officer or waste management worker who does something nice and unexpected that affects your life. ▪ That one gas station you pull in to that never has receipt paper, and the flow of gas to your tank runs at the speed of a melting glacier. ▪ That friend or couple who when you are out to dinner suddenly develops arm paralysis when the server presents the check to the table. Or, better yet, you’ve had them over for dinner or parties for years and they have never reciprocated. ▪ That friend who you have not seen in years but when you do, you start to talk and it suddenly seems like yesteryear.

▪ The TV ad featuring a used car dealer that is screaming at you. Do they really think the majority of viewers have a single digit IQ and would buy a car from this guy?

▪ You’re in the salad bar line and the person in front of you inspects every leaf of lettuce and associated condiment while building their Taj Mahal as the line backs up.

Bully for Siera! This endearing English Bulldog, owned by Greg and Jennifer Albritton, along with five other fetching canines add charm and style to our fall fashion photo shoot. Find out what these “best friends” and their model friends are wearing beginning on page 70. Photography by Blake Greene VOL. 15 NO. 5

▪ The family member that, if they weren’t directly connected to you by DNA or marriage, you would have nothing to do with.

▪ You are standing by the casket at the funeral home and someone says, “Doesn’t she look good?” And you think, “She’s dead and looks awful,” but don’t say it.

on the cover

If you have any more of these you would like to share, drop me a line and we’ll print a list sometime in 2015.

THE EMER ALD COAST MAGA ZINE

FAB FALL

FALL FASHION

14 October–November 2014

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EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM OCTOBER-NOVEMBER 2014

— Brian Rowland browland@rowlandpublishing.com

14EC_ON_PrudentialPenFed-backcover.indd 1 14EC_ON_PrudentialPenFed-backcover.indd 1

8/18/14 4:25 PM 8/18/14 4:25 PM

It’s autumn on the EC! Time to celebrate with fresh fall fashions, festive fetes, fitness trends and, of course, the Best of the Emerald Coast!

Fashion mavens express themselves through design

Raising the Barre: Ballet barre-based fitness is a kick

The 2014 votes are in for the Best of the Emerald Coast!

POWER FORWARD WITH

STEVE WOZNIAK Co-founder of Apple, Inc.

From the garage to the Valley. Steve Wozniak, co-founder of Apple and philanthropist for over 30 years, helped shape the computing industry with his design of Apple’s ﬁrst line of products. Wozniak currently serves as Chief Scientist for Fusion-io and is a published author with the release of his New York Times bestselling autobiography, “iWoz: From Computer Geek to Cult Icon.”

Wednesday, November 5, 2014 Donald L. Tucker Civic Center PROGRAM:

3:30 to 5 p.m.

NETWORKING OPPORTUNITY (Cash Bar):

5 p.m.

TICKETS: www.Ticketmaster.com

$65 Priority Seating $45 General Admission, $75 Door

Federally insured by NCUA

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com Photo October–November 15 by Michael 2014 Bulbenko

editor’s note Chicken Soup for the Soul

—Z andra Wolfgram eC-Editor@rowlandpublishing.com 16 October–November 2014

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com

editor’s picks In honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month here are a few things to keep you “in the pink.”

▪ Linda Kedy’s diagnosis of cancer in

2001 put her on a journey to health that created health, vitality and energy greater than she had ever experienced in her youth. Her book, “Cancer is Great for Your Health,” is intended as a support system for individuals diagnosed with cancer or other chronic diseases. Purchase it online at amazon.com.

▪ Look Good Feel Better is a

beauty program celebrating its 25th anniversary. The program has helped nearly 1.5 million around the globe feel better by hosting group workshops that teach beauty techniques to help female cancer patients combat the appearancerelated side effects of cancer treatment. To find a program in the area, visit lookgoodfeelbetter.org.

▪ Cleaning for a Reason is one Allison Yii

You’ve seen the books, products and forums for Chicken Soup for the Soul. They have made a brand out of sharing inspirational stories of those who have made a difference in someone’s life. Well, here is one for the pot, quite literally, in fact. It’s about a bowl of chicken soup. Well, really it’s about the person who made the soup. A special person. She’s an oncology nurse named Olivia Pollard who works with an amazing team at the Emerald Coast Cancer Center. And one day she saved my life with a bowl of homemade chicken soup. Well, supposedly she (and nurse Linda Monastero) saved my life by taking turns hooking me up to a cocktail of chemotherapy drugs, but I like to think it’s the warm bowl of homemade chicken soup that really kicked cancer to the curb and across the road. Olivia has a quiet way about her. She doesn’t push on patients, but if you ask a question she will give you a straight answer. Like her chicken soup, she is simple and wholesome and good. If her soft, Southern voice doesn’t soothe, then one of her warm bear hugs is sure to. Olivia didn’t come to know some of the nuances of nurturing in nursing school. She learned them first-hand from life experience — hers. You see, she is a 23-year breast cancer survivor. So she’s “been there,” and she gets it. Though I can’t seem to say enough about her, she’s said volumes to me without uttering a word. Like the day my husband was called out of town on business during my fourth chemotherapy session. As a working mom, more than enduring the treatment, not being able to anticipate how my body would respond was stressful. Would I be able to get the kids ready for school? Would I be able to just get up? On this February day I was nauseous and wasn’t sure where I was going to get the strength to make dinner for my kids. Then, like a gift from heaven, Olivia texted me to check my front porch. And there it was. Liquid gold. My very own Chicken Soup for the Soul. With each savory spoonful of goodness, I was restored and gained the strength and confidence to do what I needed to do. It was magic. It was hope in a bowl. It was also her day off. But Olivia’s acts of kindness had started long before. Three weeks into treatment Olivia prepared me that my hair would fall out. When wigs itched, I opted for a parade of hats to cover my bald head. Olivia always had something nice to say about each. After my ride forgot to pick me up from chemotherapy treatment No. 2, Olivia drove me home. On a particularly sunny winter day, I ventured into the backyard and managed to fill a big basket with fresh Meyer lemons. I brought some to Olivia, and she gave them back in the form of a deliciously moist lemon cake with lemon icing. The irony was not lost on me. You know the whole “When life hands you lemons … .” For me, each bite tasted like sunshine … and hope. That was three years ago, and Olivia’s soulful soup still has me going strong. As we mark Breast Cancer Awareness Month, take a moment to say thank you to the generous, thoughtful and kind caregivers who go beyond the call of duty to help us, and those we love, with all that ails us.

nonprofit that gets down to the nittygritty of cancer. The organization partners with maid services to offer professional house cleanings to women undergoing treatment for cancer. To learn more, visit Cleaningforareason.org.

▪ Cancer is enough to make you pull your

hair out. But for some the drugs take care of all that. For a discreet and professional wig consultation and fitting, visit Wigs by Cheyenne located in the Emerald Coast Shopping Center (behind Jim ‘n’ Nick’s) in Destin. As a trained stylist, owner Cheyenne Isenhour is trained to help you select the perfect wig for you.

▪ Newman-Dailey Resort

Properties has launched the Celebration Vacation Package in honor of the many female friends and family affected by breast cancer. The special beach getaway for fall includes a champagne welcome basket, $100 gift card for Silver Sands Premium Outlets, a massage, vouchers for activities, movies and more. For each package purchased, Newman-Dailey will donate $100 to Susan G. Komen Foundation. To learn more, visit DestinVacation.com.

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In Search of the Best?

2007–2014

BEACHY BEACH

THANKS YOU FOR VOTING US THE BEST REAL ESTATE GROUP!

Who serves up the best pizza? Coffee? Customer service? Where is the best place to see the sunset? Who is best suited to handle your taxes or even design your dream home? For 14 years EC magazine has chronicled the Best of the Emerald Coast. And now you can find current winners and past favorites in our handy, searchable online Best archive.

Love your stylist? Adore your salon? Then give them a chance to showcase their creative “shear genius” by nominating them as a contender in the 4th Annual Emerald Coast Top Salon competition. Nominations open Oct. 1, 2014 and are only open for two weeks. Your favorite salon can only participate if ranked as one of the Top 10, so be sure to cast your vote today!

Video! The Baking of a Billboard The Emerald Coast’s own Andy Saczynski was commissioned by the Immaculate Baking Company to hand paint a 40-foot billboard from scratch. Check out this “real time” video of Saczynski’s four-day folk art “wall dog” challenge in downtown Minneapolis.

What's the … Deal? Are you easy going? If so, Hammock Bay could be for you. Learn more about the many amenities in this affordable Freeport community, see a great getaway in Lake Park, Georgia, and find out what’s just sold and what’s newly listed — all in this edition of Deal Estate.

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20 October–November 2014

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in the e.c.

Peopl e + St y le + H y p e

A Fishing Destin-y

Justin Destin, the fourth generation of Destins living in “The World’s Luckiest Fishing Village,” has lived on the Emerald Coast his whole life. And while he might tell you everything about himself, he typically fails to mention that the town where he lives was named after his spirited grandfather, Leonard Destin, who first sailed ashore in 1845. “I didn’t want it to be a big deal,” said the 27-yearold captain. But Justin Destin does what all of the Destins have been doing for hundreds of years — goes fishing. His grandfather was certainly a local fishing legend, but Destin has made a name for himself on the docks, too. His boat, Full Draw, recently won first place in Harbor Docks’ 2014 World Cobia Championship after crewmate and angler Danny Burkhalter lured in a 91.2-pound cobia. But this fisherman does more than go fishing; he takes people fishing — running a charter boat business that has been in his family for years. “I get to see the sun come up almost every day … seeing some of the reactions of people … that’s probably my favorite part,” he said. He also enjoys the chance to catch “sea monsters,” and who knows? He just might. — Janie Harris

Photo by Matt Burke

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com October–November 2014

well-worded

Poetic Connections Esther Hurwitz: From Technical to Creative Writing By Samantha Rhodes

sther Hurwitz has a history of asking herself the same question: “Should I do what I’ve always done, or should I try something different?” Originally from a suburb in Detroit, Michigan, the 56-year-old bespectacled poet lives with her boyfriend, Nate, and 11-year-old cat, Winston, in Crestview. Though she has built a reputation as an established poet regionally and locally, Hurwitz’s career began in a different arena — in technical writing.

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Crestview poet Esther Hurwitz shares personal “narrative” stories through her poems.

Photo by Matt Burke

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com October–November 2014

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Matt Burke

well-worded

Her 17-year-career as a technical writer led her to a variety of experiences, including working with newspaper publishing software and automobile companies like Ford, where she worked as a contractor in 1994. “I used to be mechanically inclined,” Hurwitz said. “I like to know how things work.” After her contracts were unexpectedly cancelled, Hurwitz decided to break from the status quo and try her hand at poetry, a passion she discovered back in grade school but was told by a teacher not to pursue in college. Though switching gears from technical to creative writing seems like a struggle, Hurwitz recognized that both essentially have the same purpose — to connect with an audience. Again deciding to try something different in 2002, she self-published her first chapbook of poetry, “Soft as a Beagle’s Ears.” After being voted “Ms. Under Appreciated” at a regional poetry slam in 2010, Hurwitz proved her talent when her poems appeared in numerous publications, including Exquisite Corpse and The Huron River Review. Though being published is every writer’s fantasy,

the fame doesn’t beckon Hurwitz. In fact, she estimates she has nearly 150 unpublished poems sitting at home that only her eyes have seen. She admits she’s a little hesitant to publish her work because most of it is personalized and draws directly from her life. “When you publish something, you don’t know who it’ll go home with,” Hurwitz says with a nervous little laugh. “Narrative” is the word she uses to describe her poems, primarily because they tell stories of her experiences, some of which are drawn from relationships and, more recently, religion. Hurwitz’s poem, “What the House Doesn’t Remember,” was extracted from a memory of cleaning a closet with her boyfriend’s Christian mother, whom she is now close with and considers a huge inspiration. Though Hurwitz was raised Jewish, she says she has “been looking at things from a somewhat different Christian point of view.” Above all else, Hurwitz writes to show readers the interconnectedness of life. “I try to show the connections between everything, or as many

You can “have a word” with Hurwitz at the Crestview Library, which holds a Poetry Jam every second Tuesday of the month as well as an annual Poetry Slam in April.

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com October–November 2014

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well-worded

‘‘

Matt Burke

things as possible, but that everything is connected,” Hurwitz says. “I love when that comes out in my poems.” Her work can be purchased on Amazon or read online. Because of her busy lifestyle, Hurwitz doesn’t give herself permission to write as often as she’d like, but she enjoys the flow of words through her hands. “I can write it better than I can say it,” I try to show she says. the connections Though she’s also between written technical manuals, contributed to aneverything, or thologies and even as many things wielded her red pen as as possible, but an editor, Hurwitz currently works as a library that everything is aide at the Crestview Liconnected. I love brary. But her true pride when that comes comes from coordinatout in my poems.” ing the library’s Poetry and Music Jam, an event — Esther Hurwitz that takes place on the second Tuesday of every month and gives locals an opportunity to share their own poetry and music. “It’s important to be able to get up and speak your truth and have people accept it,” Hurwitz says. With a smile on her face and brown eyes twinkling behind her thin-rimmed glasses, one thing is obvious — Hurwitz will continue searching for ways to connect with people … or they’ll just fall onto her open page. ec

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made in the ec

Meet the Emerald Coast's Southern Frock Stars Local Fashion Designers Have Distinctive Visions, Creative Spirits By Wendy Anguiano

any say fashion is a way to express yourself, and on the Emerald Coast fashion takes on a carefree, effortless style that most women find appealing. It is not about wearing the latest trends but rather wearing what makes you feel your best. Coco Chanel once said, “In order to be irreplaceable one must always be different.” Two local designers are just that — designing with their souls poured into each unique piece. Stephanie Carter Founder and designer of Judith March of Southern Fashion House, Stephanie Carter is not caught up in the typical fashion industry business, because living on the Emerald Coast sets her apart. She takes pride that she is not a “me too,” doing what everyone else in the industry is doing. Carter is passionate about creativity and loves to see women look good and be confident in the clothes they put on. Growing up in Brundidge, Alabama, Carter is “an all-or-nothing kind of girl.” She loves jeans and T-shirts as much as she loves dressing up. Her father was a peanut farmer and owned a commercial construction business. Her mother worked as a bookkeeper for 40 years. Carter attributes her strong work ethic to her parents. Carter, 32, splits her time between Alabama and Seagrove Beach on the Emerald Coast. She enjoys playing with her 7-year-old son, Fox, and her two dogs, Louie (named after Louis Vuitton) and Jake. Carter loves to craft and paint. In fact she says, “All I need are my power tools, a drill, saw, hot glue gun and a bucket of plaster.” In her spare time, she enjoys fishing with Fox and her boyfriend, Christopher Campbell. Together they recently won an angler tournament. Carter grew up wearing polka dots and plaid. She was unconventional and at an early age began modifying clothes to make them her own. Her parents taught, “If you are passionate, you can do anything.” Carter didn’t dream of becoming a fashion designer, but with an insatiable thirst for creativity, a strong work ethic and a love for people, she combined these attributes to create her first business. For a college marketing class project, Carter dreamed up Déjà Vu, a clothing company for women. She travelled to the Atlanta market, selected clothing samples and sold them out of her car to sorting houses, country clubs and at festivals. She then sold her black Ford Mustang that she received for her 16th birthday and opened a kiosk in Seacrest Beach on 30A. “People felt comfortable walking in with sandy toes,” Carter said.

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In August 2008, the up-and-coming designer opened her first store at Pier Park in Panama City and a second store in March 2009 at Seaside. In 2011, she opened a store in Key West and in 2012 a store in Fairhope, Alabama. Quickly mastering the art of retailing, Carter decided she needed something else to do and to provide diversification in the event a hurricane wiped her stores out. In June 2009, she ordered 25,000 yards of fabric and called her best friend, Christy Smith, head designer at Kay Unger in New York City. Together they created 22,648 garments. Within six months, she was in production and off to her first show. Named after her mother, Judith, and her mother-in-law, March, the brand Judith March was born. Today, Judith March (judithmarch.com) has grown to be sold in more than 800 stores in all 50 states and Puerto Rico. Carter says, “God meant for me to do this. Doors opened. I worked hard and took it one day at a time. It was not easy.” She believes doing what you are passionate about is important, because you are not promised tomorrow. Her motto is, “Do your best and let God take care of the rest.” Carter draws inspiration from anything. It could be an iron gate at Disney World that turns into a print, a vintage pillow or a street sign. She was named 2014 South Walton Designer of the Year. This fall, the Judith March line will be filled with embroidery. Carter will also launch a line with Missy Robertson of Duck Dynasty called “Missy Robertson by Southern Fashion House.”

Photos by Jacqueline Ward

Stephanie Carter hopes her designs, sold at 800 retail shops across the country, both complement and embolden the individual sense of style of today’s fashion-conscious woman.

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com October–November 2014

made in the ec

Jacqueline Ward

Nicole Rockhill Founder and designer of Nicole Paloma, Nicole Rockhill moved to Florida with her husband and two daughters, Laurel and Laine, in 2009 for her husband’s commercial construction job. There was such support in the 30A community and a sense of camaraderie. She made some of the best friends she had ever had, so they decided to stay. Needing to do something to provide a source of income, she launched a kid’s line of clothing and began selling. Rockhill needed a larger space to work in, so she opened her current space at Grayton Beach in September 2011. The kid’s line was doing so well that in the spring of 2012 she launched a clothing line for women and literally watched the pieces fly out the door. After years of journaling using her first and middle names, she decided to use these names in her business to create the Nicole Paloma brand. Rockhill, 34, was born in Boca Raton, Florida, but moved around between New York, Atlanta and South Florida throughout her childhood. She describes her experiences in each place: Long Island was where she was exposed to fine art, museums and galleries; Atlanta was where she began to understand consumerism, branding, marketing and instant gratification; and South Florida is where she found her grounding and spiritualism. The frequent moving and traveling with her mother, a flight attendant, gave Rockhill a fearlessness that carries into her business today. Rockhill’s mother is her “rock star.” She is an only child and very close to her mother. At the age of eight, Rockhill was found

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Jacqueline Ward

in her closet cutting clothes. She was never punished but rather encouraged to express herself, to dream big and go for it. She loved the puzzle of putting outfits together, the complexity of it and the emotion the end result evoked. She says, “It’s not how do I Nicole Rockhill look, but how do I feel,” designs ultra that drives her to design feminine pieces timeless creations. that are as fresh as a new romance Rockhill bought her for her line, first sewing machine seven Nicole Paloma, years ago to make pairs of sold online and in her boutique pants for her little girls and studio called immediately fell in love Nicole Paloma in Grayton Beach. with fabric. “Fabric makes me giggle,” she says. Her designs exploded in the marketplace and can now be bought online at nicolepaloma.com or in stores in Florida, Arkansas, Texas, Mississippi and Kentucky. Her inspiration comes first from the feeling of the season. “Spring and summer are fresh and breezy, fall and winter are earthy and grounded,” she says. Next, she chooses specific music that evokes that feeling, a color scheme and fabric and plays it repeatedly throughout the design process. Her designs are full of timeless neutrals that “allow a person to show up instead of the clothing.” The fabrics she chooses are classics such as silks, linens, cotton, jersey and lace. Rockhill describes her designs as “effortless elegance, comfortable, classic, flowy Victorian pieces, as well as vintage and edgy contemporary.” Her designs appeal to 15-year-old girls as well as 65-year-old women. Even after thousands of designs she still gets a kick out of seeing what she has made. In her spare time, Rockhill enjoys yoga, meditation and taking long walks on the beach near her Grayton Beach home. She believes life itself is her mentor. The lessons she’s learned about herself, humanity, children and things really important influence her life view. Fall 2014 is still uncertain in Rockhill’s mind but she believes she will play up couture and take it to another level. She says, “It starts with a feeling that mulls around for a while.” Believing her designs will be significant, she is very excited about what is coming. She is also contemplating a line for men but waiting for the right time. You can get a sneak peek of the design process for each line at each of the designer’s working studios. Judith March is located off of County Road 393 in Santa Rosa Beach, and Nicole Paloma is located within her store in The Shops of Grayton in Grayton Beach. See their latest creations modeled on the runway during South Walton Fashion Week (Oct. 6–12). ec

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com October–November 2014

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historicity

Capt. John Destin — one of Leonard’s grandsons — and other local fishermen use seine nets on the beach in the 1950s.

Photos courtesy the destin History & Fishing Museum, the Destin Family and Arturo Mennillo

History and Heritage

Destin Museum Gives Locals a Vision of the Past By Samantha Rhodes

and-crafted fishing lures and rods, yellowed crinkly newspaper clippings, glossy monochromatic photos and over 75 life-size fish mounts of every specimen and color — enter Destin History & Fishing Museum. Prior to the 1930s, the area of land known as East Pass (now called Destin) was practically unsettled. That was, until its namesake Captain Leonard Destin (1813–1884) and his wife Martha McCullum Destin (1835–1896) arrived in the area in the late 1830s and established a large fishing industry that gave work to young men. Many of these men became Destin’s first settlers, 16 founding families that still occupy the area today. Thus, began Destin’s humble history — one so nostalgic that the Destin Fishing Museum was built during the 1980s in the plaza near currentday McGuire’s Irish Pub.

After finding his way to the Emerald Coast from Connecticut, Leonard Destin (1813–1884) married Martha J. McCullom (1835–1896) in 1852 and had six children: George, Leonard Jr., Jane, Hattie, Andrew and Alfred.

Today, the new Destin History & Fishing Museum is located at 108 Stahlman Ave. in the old Destin Library. However, its rebirthing wasn’t an easy task. Jean Melvin, both the current and original museum director, worked for years planning exhibits, tracking down artifacts, finding donations and completing legal paperwork to make her dream of sharing Destin’s past a reality. “With about $2,000, an army of volunteers and calling in every favor ever owed, the Destin History & Fishing Museum started to take shape,” Melvin says. After its official opening in 2005, the museum now averages about 8,500 visitors annually and serves as a “home for exhibits that profile Destin’s unique history and heritage,” as described by Kathy Marler Blue, associate museum director for five years. And that’s just what the museum does — it teaches every person who walks in the door a snippet (or two) they never knew about Destin’s roots.

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com October–November 2014

historicity

“People’s reactions are typically that from the outside it looks so small, but when they come in and have the experience of an individualized tour, they are usually blown away by the amount of history that we have within these walls,” Blue says. “And sometimes the people that are the most surprised are the locals.” Intended for learners of all ages, the museum offers special and private tours as well as kid-friendly activities like scavenger hunts. “We can accommodate anybody for anything,” Blue says. Visitors can also take a peek inside Destin’s first post office, located adjacent to the museum, which serviced the area until 1951. “We have artifacts, vintage photographs and stories of a people that were hard working, God-fearing,

community-minded, salt-of-the-Earth type people,” Blue says. “It’s their stories and their lives and the work that they did that created the base of the community we have today.” With hopeful plans to expand the building this fall, the museum aims to add exhibits that are more interactive and eventually, self-guided audio tours with headsets. Despite these plans, Blue says the museum still offers locals a sense of appreciation for everything that exists in Destin today. “Every person that enjoys what Destin has to offer now, whether it’s a recreational boat or whether they wet a line, they’re a part of a heritage that started a long time ago,” Blue says. And as long as the museum stands firmly rooted, that heritage won’t be forgotten anytime soon. ec

History buffs can visit the museum’s website at destinhistoryandfishingmuseum.org, check their quarterly newsletters or call (850) 837-6611, for more information, hours, pricing for admission and membership and ways to volunteer.

FALL 2014 SEASON | 850.644.6500 OPENINGNIGHTS.FSU.EDU

34 October–November 2014

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Zandra Wolfgram Zandra Wolfgram

Like a living scrapbook, a tour of vintage tableau vignettes, historic memorabilia and photo montages throughout the Destin History & Fishing Museum treat visitors of all ages to the story of The Worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Luckiest Fishing Village from days gone by up to today.

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com Octoberâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;November 2014

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36 October–November 2014

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avantgardeaveda.com

scene A few things we’ve seen and heard around the EC scene …

Photos by Kay Phelan (Destin Commons) and courtesy Newman-Dailey (McMahon and Windes) And South Walton Tourist Development Council (Vigil)

NEW NEWS ▪ Children’s Volunteer Health Network (CVHN) is continuing to expand its mission of enhancing the lives of uninsured and underinsured school-aged children in Okaloosa and Walton counties. This past summer, Just for Grins Mobile Dental Clinic made stops at local partner agencies such as Emerald Coast Children’s Advocacy Center, Children In Crisis, Shelter House, the YMCA, S4PSynergy and others to ensure CVHN is reaching as many local children in need as possible. During the school year, Just for Grins travels to elementary schools in Walton County and sees children in first through fourth grades who qualify for the free and reduced lunch program. As of May 2014, CVHN has facilitated more than 46,000 medical, dental, vision and mental health care procedures for over 7,000 local children since inception in

2005 — resulting in over $3.4 million in free services for these families. ▪ Destin Woman’s Club recently presented Shelter House with a check for $6,000. The funds were proceeds from their spring fundraiser — Dine, Dance & Cruise aboard the Solaris yacht. Destin Woman’s Club adopted Shelter House for a two-year period, during which the organization gave more than $18,700 and numerous donations of groceries and household items.

two new CAM team members: Dan McMahon recently joined the team after moving to Destin from Key West, and Missy Windes Windes also joined the company and is now managing associations, including Fountain Plaza where Newman-Dailey is headquartered in Miramar Beach.

New Faces in New Places

McMahon

▪ Newman-Dailey Resort Properties (NDRP) Association Management Division announces

Vigil

▪ Jennifer Vigil of Panama City Beach has joined the Walton County Tourist Development Council as director of administration.

Destin Commons held an allday grand opening expansion event with music and a barbecue competition to herald the opening of 22 more stores and restaurants.

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com October–November 2014

38 Octoberâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;November 2014

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scene

When buying or selling your home, ask for

McNeese

Carter

Stevens

Marquez

Photo By Scott Holstein (White) And Courtesy Blue Marlin Realty Group (Stevens, Marquez, Carter), Two Lights Photography (Lawson) And Superior Residences of Bluewater Bay

▪ Blue Marlin Realty Group has welcomed two new Realtors, Craig Carter and Cat Stevens, and a new rental and guest services manager, Devin Marquez. Kudos and Congratulations ▪ Legendary Marine has announced the winners of its inaugural 2014 Legendary Marine College Scholarships. Blythe Greene and Kerri Andre, both from Fort Walton Beach High School; Avalon Dudinsky from North Bay Charter High School in Panama City; and Kaitlyn Hickman, Fairhope High School, Fairhope, Alabama, will each receive a $1,000 scholarship. ▪ Natalie Lawson of Destin recently was named one of 10 finalists in the Distinguished Young Women National Finals competition and awarded a $3,500 cash scholarship. Lawson also earned two $1,000 preliminary competition awards in the selfexpression and fitness categories. Lawson is a graduate of Fort Walton Beach High Lawson School. In the fall, she will attend the University of South Florida with plans to study astrobiology. She is the daughter of Mia and Charles Lawson.

White

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▪ Florida chef Terry White, who owns Sage restaurant in Tallahassee, was crowned King of the 2014 Great American Seafood Cook-off. The winning dish: country hamcrusted Gulf cobia with spiny lobster gyoza, caramelized baby bok choi, and a Florida orange and saffron emulsion. ec

Two oﬃces to serve you: DESTIN 36468 Emerald Coast Parkway, Ste. 1201, Destin, FL 32541 P 850.337.4242 | F 850.337.4243 | Toll-free 866.337.4242 SEAGROVE 3291 E. County Hwy 30-A, Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459 P 850.534.4242 | F 850.534.4293 | Toll-free 877.534.4242

McNeeseTitle.com Construction is well underway for Superior Residences, a $19+ million Independent Living Community on Highway 20 in Niceville that will feature 94 one- and two-bedroom rental apartments. Designed as a “secured community” for seniors 55 years or older desiring the convenience of an upscale living in a safe, resort-style environment, the luxe five-story complex concepted by Raimund Herden, who designed Bluewater Bay, is expected to be completed in spring 2015.

Title Company 2013 & 2014

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com October–November 2014

NORTHWEST FLORIDA WEDDINGS & Honeymoon Destinations Magazine

Bridal Show PRESENTS

The

H A P P I LY E V E R A F T E R B E G I N S

O N T H E G R E E N AT G U L F P L A C E , S A N TA R O S A B E A C H

Saturday the 1st of November 2014 FROM NOON TO FOUR O’CLOCK

Meet and mingle with some of the region’s top wedding planners, designers and vendors. For more information, contact Tiﬀani Salinas at 850.502.9233 or email gulfplaceevents@outlook.com.

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& Honeymoon Destinations Magazine 40 October–November 2014

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happenings Events + Culture + Causes

spotlight

Photo Courtesy Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation

A Celebration of the Arts

Recognized as one of Northwest Florida’s premier fine art shows, the Festival of the Arts, produced by the Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation, is one of the most anticipated cultural events of the year on the Emerald Coast. Festive tents filled with amazing art created by more than 100 hand-selected juried artists from around the country bring Destin’s Mattie Kelly Cultural Arts Village alive. The annual event, which will award $10,000 in artist prizes, showcases a variety of original art from oil, watercolor, acrylic and glass paintings to sculpture, pottery, paper, mixed media, jewelry designs and more. The festival, now in its 19th year, is a celebration of music, too, and features live musical entertainment performed throughout both days in the Dugas Pavilion overlooking the Village Green. Other must-try festival amenity special features include the Cuisine on the Green food bistro, a new Wine Bar & Beer Garden, the Kid’s ArtStop and the Collaborative Art Exhibit showcasing more than 40 community artists representing local students and adults. Entry is $3 per adult, and kids under 12 are free. Mattie Kelly Cultural Arts Village, 4323 Commons Drive West, Destin. Sat 9 a.m.–5 p.m.; Sun 11 a.m.– 5 p.m. 850-650-2226, mattiekellyartsfoundation.org — Paisley Rose

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com October–November 2014

thecalendar october + november

+event

The Bridal Show Nov. 1 The happiest day of your life should be

fun to plan. Calling all brides-to-be to Gulf Place in Santa Rosa Beach for Northwest Florida’s wedding event of the season. The Bridal Show, presented by Northwest Florida Weddings and Honeymoon Destinations Magazine, is a festive and fun event designed to put you in touch with the best local wedding planners, caterers and cake bakers so you can create the wedding of your dreams.

+show

‘The Nutcracker’ Nov. 21–23 Northwest Florida

Ballet presents three performances of the 34th annual production of the holiday classic, “The Nutcracker,” on Friday and Saturday, Nov. 21 and 22, at 7 p.m. and Sunday, Nov. 23, at 2:30 p.m. This fairy tale ballet in two acts centers on a family’s Christmas Eve celebration. Alexandre Dumas Père’s adaptation of the story by E.T.A. Hoffmann was set to music by Tchaikovsky and originally choreographed by Marius Petipa. The story centers on a young girl’s Christmas Eve and her awakening to the wider world and romantic love. The beloved NFB production features colorful costumes, magical special effects, beautiful music and exceptional dancing. Tickets are $32 for adults, $15 for children (12 and under). Mattie Kelly Performing Arts Center, 100 College Blvd., Niceville. (850) 664-7787, nfballet.org 42 October–November 2014

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Weekdays through Nov. 25

Thanksgiving Food Drive Shelter House is collecting food for Thanksgiving meal baskets. Donate gift cards, frozen hams/ turkeys (accepted on Nov. 25 only), boxed mashed potatoes, gravy, stuffing mix, cream soups for casseroles, crispy fried onions, cranberries, rolls, condensed milk, pumpkin puree and pie crusts. Drop off your donation at the Shelter House office, 102 Buck Dr., Fort Walton Beach. Weekdays 8 a.m.–5 p.m. through Nov. 25. (850) 243-1201, shelterhousenwfl.org

Wednesdays

Wednesday Night Concert Series Enjoy this outdoor music concert series featuring live performers, bands and musicians. FREE. Events Plaza, The Village of Baytowne Wharf at Sandestin, 9300 Emerald Coast Pkwy. West, Miramar Beach. 7–9 p.m. (850) 267-8117, baytownewharf.com

photos By Scott Holstein (SAvor the Season), Black & Hue Photography (Weddings), Robert Barton (Nutcracker) and Kay Phelan (Best Of)

On Saturday, Nov. 1, from noon to 4 p.m. meet and greet top local wedding industry professionals for trends and style ideas. Guests will be treated to a wedding-themed fashion show at 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. along with chances to enter to win valuable door prizes. For more information, call Tiffani Salinas at (850) 502-9233.

Compiled by Janie Harris For more events in the EC, visit emeraldcoastmagazine.com.

+food

Savor the Season

Nov. 6 On Saturday, Nov. 6, enjoy a chic wine

tasting with culinary delights by local celebrity chefs under the stars at the Caliza Pool at Alys Beach. The evening includes a silent auction with proceeds benefitting the Taylor Haugen Foundation, which was created and named to honor the memory of the 15-year-old Niceville High School student who passed away after an injury sustained during a football game on Aug. 30, 2008.

+event

Best of the Emerald Coast 2014

The Foundation provides grants, education and funding to athletic teams, schools and districts through its YESS (Youth Equipment for Sports Safety) Program and also recognizes and supports outstanding scholar-athletes with scholarships and awards. The tasting event begins at 5:30 p.m. Tickets are $60. For more information, visit thfsavortheseason.org.

Oct. 25 Meet, mix and mingle with the best of the best along the Emerald Coast on Saturday, Oct. 25, at Grand Boulevard at Sandestin. One of the most highly anticipated events of the year, the Best of the Emerald Coast brings friends and family together to sample the food, beverage and services of award winners from EC Magazine’s famous annual readers’ poll — all while supporting a great cause, the Junior League of the Emerald Coast. Tickets are $30 in advance and $40 the day of the event. The event is from 6 to 9 p.m. For more information call (850) 862-2665, or visit emeraldcoastmagazine.com.

Fridays

Downtown Art Walk Stroll Fort Walton Beach’s historic district and visit with merchants from participating shops and restaurants while enjoying art demonstrations, live music, complimentary refreshments and special discounts. FREE. Downtown Fort Walton Beach. 5:30–8:30 p.m.

Saturdays

Grand Boulevard Farmers’ Market This outdoor market features dozens of unique vendors offering locally sourced produce, eggs, milk, cream, butter, grass-fed beef, chicken, lamb, pork, local honey, pickled vegetables and gourmet jams, as well as flowers, herbs, soaps and lotions. FREE. Grand Park in Grand Boulevard, 600 Grand Blvd., Miramar Beach. 9 a.m.–1 p.m. (850) 837-3099, grandboulevard.com

Seaside Farmers’ Market Get your pick of fresh produce, baked goods, dairy products, native plants and other unique offerings during Seaside’s Market on Saturday mornings. Held behind Raw & Juicy. (850) 231-6107, seasidefl.com

Oct. 1–31

Window Display Clay Story Boxes, made by the students of Sherry Cooler, will be on display during the month of October in the studio windows of the Art Center, fronting First Street in Fort Walton Beach. Drive by and stop to see these works, which reflect students’ stories carved into clay. FREE. Art Center, 17 First St. S.E., Fort Walton Beach. (850) 244-1271, artsdesignsociety.org

Oct. 2 & Nov. 6

Grayton ArtWalk Award-winning Grayton Beach artists Andy Saczynski, Mary Hong, Justin Lyons, Allison Craft, Nicole Paloma and Modus Photography welcome the public to their cottage-style galleries, studios and workspaces for a meetand-greet-style event. Enjoy refreshments as you talk with the artists, watch creative demonstrations and get an inside peek into their working studios. FREE. Logan Lane off 283 in Grayton Beach (both Mystic Porte and The Shops of Grayton). 5–8 p.m. (850) 502-0072, graytonartistcollective.com

Oct. 3

Ladies that Lunch Join Barber & Gall promotions for an event to benefit and raise awareness for Fore Her, a local

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com October–November 2014

Proud to be the “Best”.

Proud to win “Best Vacation Rental Firm” for the past six years in a row and now recipient of “Best Property Management Company” award for 2014, ResortQuest by Wyndham Vacation Rentals® is easily the most comfortable and unforgettable way to stay whether your travels include two or twenty. With thousands of vacation rentals in some of the most sought-after destinations in the U.S., each of our rentals is backed by our Vacation Rental Bill of Rights®. From the seclusion of Perdido Key, to ﬁshing in Destin, to a whole range of activities in Panama City Beach, we’re sure to have a spot just for you. Stay with us and experience the award-winning difference!

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*Destinations and travel times are subject to availability and confirmed on a first come, first served basis. All pric es are in USD. Offer includes accommodations only and specifically excludes travel costs and other expenses that may be incurred. Taxes additional fees and charges may apply. Promotional discounts and offers may not apply to all properties. Cannot be c ombined with other offers and is valid on new reservations only. This promotional offer may be discontinued at the discretion of Wyndham Vacation Rentals. Other restrictions may apply. Offer void where prohibited by law. Offer valid for travel dates between Sept. 1 and Oc t. 31, 2014 . Fla. Seller of Travel Reg. No. ST-38182. Washington Seller of Travel Reg. No. 603118961. Wyndham Vacation Rentals and related marks are registered trademarks and/or service marks in the United States and internationally. All rights reserved. Printed in the U.S.A. 14 Sylvan Way, Parsippany, NJ 07054 ©2014 Wyndham Vacation Rentals North America, LLC.

44 October–November 2014

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Best Vacation Rental Firm

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2014

thecalendar charity financially helping women who are battling breast cancer — one golf game at a time. Sip, shop and socialize at a threecourse lunch with wine and spirits. Various prizes will be awarded, and a gift bag will be given to each attendee. $40. Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse and Wine Bar, 600 Grand Blvd., Miramar Beach. Noon. (850) 420-0634

Sept. 29–Oct. 4

31st Northwest Florida TriCounty Fair Fine Arts Show In this annual art show, sponsored by the Arts and Design Society and the Northwest Florida Fair Board, artworks in every medium will be on display with high school and middle school art serving as a special feature. A free reception will be held Sept. 28 from 2–4 p.m. C.H. Bull Rigdon Fairgrounds and Recreation Complex (formerly The Northwest Florida Fairgrounds), 1958 Lewis Turner Blvd. (Rt. 189), Fort Walton Beach. Art show hours: Mon–Fri 5–10 p.m., Sat 2–10 p.m. (850) 582-1329, artsdesignsociety.org

Oct. 4 and 6

Call to Artists: Deadline for ‘Inspired by Basquiat’ Show The Arts Design Society will be accepting works for the “Inspired by Jean Michel Basquiat” 1–4 p.m. on Oct. 4 and 9 a.m–noon on Oct. 6. All works, in any medium, must reflect the style of Basquiat. artsdesignsociety.org

Jackson and his smooth songs from the songbook of the Mad Men Era. The evening starts with a champagne toast, followed by four exquisite food courses paired with wine, culminating in the performance. $175 per person (includes all food, wine and gratuities). Seagar’s Prime Steaks & Seafood, Sandestin Beach Hilton Golf Resort & Spa, 4000 Sandestin Blvd., Miramar Beach. 6 p.m. (850) 269-7129, sinfoniagulfcoast.org

Serving Northwest Florida. Specializing in weddings, portraits, and commercial photography.

Arts and Design Society’s ‘Inspired by Jean Michel Basquiat’ Art Show An art show in which all entries, in any medium, must reflect the influence of artist Jean Michel Basquiat. FREE. Art Center, 17 First St. S.E., Fort Walton Beach. Opening reception Oct. 10 6–8 p.m. Gallery hours: Tues–Fri noon– 4 p.m., Sat 1–4 p.m. (850) 244-1271, artsdesignsociety.org

Oct. 8

‘Smokey Joe’s Café’ This Tony Award-nominated and Grammy Award-winning salute to legendary songwriters Leiber and Stoller is a raise the roof, song and dance celebration of some of rock ‘n’ roll’s greatest hits. Call box office for ticket prices. Saenger Theatre, 118 Palafox Place, Pensacola. 7:30 p.m. (850) 595-3880, pensacolasaenger.com

Oct. 9

South Walton Fashion Week  A three-day fashion event will showcase local boutiques and designers and include a fashion design competition of select emerging designers in an exclusive runway show featuring their original works. $55–$75 for individual night passes, $150–$400 for VIP passes. Proceeds benefit Cultural Arts Alliance. Town Center of Grand Boulevard at Sandestin, 600 Grand Blvd., Miramar Beach. (850) 622-5970, swfw.org

Oct. 7

Oct. 9–11

Seagar’s & Sinfonia Present ‘Cheyenne Jackson: Music of the Mad Men Era’ Seagar’s turns into an elegant cabaret backdrop for awardwinning singer/actor Cheyenne

w w w. s a n d a n d s e a p h o t o . c o m

Oct. 7–Nov. 7

Lunch & Learn: Email Marketing Take advantage of your most valuable marketing asset — your email list. Learn how to build your list, engage current and potential customers, and get results using email marketing. Constant Contact expert/instructor Ashley Ribando will give tips on how to seamlessly integrate your email campaigns with your social media profiles and website to maximize results. $50. Northwest Florida State College, Niceville Campus in Arpke Room 315, 100 College Blvd., Niceville. 11:30 a.m.–1:30 p.m. (850) 678-5111

Oct. 6–12

sand and sea photography

John Dufresne’s Creative Writing Class The short fiction workshop will meet to discuss the stories participants have written. Published author/writer John

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EmeraldCoastMagazine.com October–November 2014

-SEPTEMBER THRU NOVEMBER-

46 October–November 2014

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+festival

36th Annual Destin Seafood Festival Oct. 3–5 Destin has long been known as “The

World’s Luckiest Fishing Village,” and during Oct. 3–5 the town shows thousands of seafood lovers why. The Destin Charter Boat Association has teamed up with the local business community, Destin restaurants and seafood markets for the 36th Annual Destin Seafood Festival. Hosted along the Destin Harbor, the familyfriendly event will feature live music, arts and crafts, a fireworks finale and, of course, fresh local seafood.

The festival is Friday from 4 to 10 p.m.; Saturday from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. The event is free, but donations are appreciated. For more information, call (850) 218-0232 or visit destinseafoodfestival.org.

A Beach Home Companion Thurs and Fri, Oct. 2–24 @ 7:30 p.m. Tickets: $25

Rolling Stones Tribute Concert and Fundraiser Thurs, November 11 @ 7:30 p.m. Tickets: $50

Every Christmas Story Ever Told (and then some!) Dec. 4–27 @ 2 p.m. & 7:30 p.m. Tickets: $20/25 adults, $10 kids

Special Free Touring Performances:

Nov. 29 in Alys Beach at Fonville Press @ 10 a.m. Sponsored by The Alys Foundation

+theater

photos By Scott Holstein (Beach) and Kay Phelan (Seafood Festival)

‘A Beach Home Companion’ Oct. 2–24 The Repertory Theatre of Seaside presents a

new work written by EC locals for EC locals called “A Beach Home Companion.” This live variety-style show is written and performed by REP ensemble members Bruce Collier, Trent Loggins and Brook Stetler with musical performances by both local and touring acts. Faithful to the spirit of the original radio program, “A Prairie Home Companion,” it honors native life on this stretch of sugar-sand beaches and turquoise waters that we call home. Featuring comedic sketches, amazing musicians, jingles for fake products and the news from Grayton Beach, this show is sure to be a hit with audiences of all ages. Tickets to show are $25. The show will be staged on Thursdays and Fridays at 7:30 p.m. from Oct. 2–24. For more information, visit lovetherep.com.

Dec. 6 in Silver Sands Premium Outlets @ noon Sponsored by The Howard Group

The REP’s 2nd Annual Holiday Party: Elves or Elvis Fri, December 5 @ 7:00 p.m. Rosemary Beach Town Hall Tickets: $50

#lovetherep facebook.com/lovetherep lovetherep.com

THE REPERTORY THEATRE 216 Quincy Circle · Seaside, FL EmeraldCoastMagazine.com October–November 2014

Gifts · Wine · Linens · Lamps · Fine Art · Table Top · Furniture Bridal Registry · Design Consultation · Shipping Available

thecalendar Dufresne will lecture on narrative techniques and the fiction writing process. Call for prices. Seaside Academic Village, 9 a.m.–noon. Seasideinstitute.org

Oct. 10

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Thank you for voting us “Best Of” 5 years in a row

48 October–November 2014

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members, $115 for non-members; half-day workshop $85 for members, $100 for non-members. Art Center, 17 First St. S.E., Fort Walton Beach. (850) 244-1271, artsdesignsociety.org

‘Camelot’ An all-new production of one of theatre’s most legendary musicals, recounting the legend of King Arthur, Guinevere, Lancelot and the Knights of the Round Table. $45 per person. Mattie Kelly Arts Center, 100 College Blvd., Niceville. 7:30 p.m. (850) 729-6000, mattiekellyartscenter.org

Oct. 17

Oct. 11

Oct. 17–19

Oct. 11

Oct. 18

Oct. 12–14

Oct. 18–19

Emerald Coast Duck Regatta  Come watch nearly 4,000 rubber ducks race across the Lagoon in The Village of Baytowne Wharf at Sandestin. Prizes will be awarded to the owners of the first ducks to cross the finish line, including a $5,000 first place prize. The event features fun activities for the whole family, including Abrakadoodle face painters, crafts, scavenger hunts, carousel rides and more. FREE. Duck adoptions begin at $10. 9300 Emerald Coast Pkwy., Miramar Beach. Family activities start at 10 a.m., duck race begins at 1 p.m. (850) 376-0684, emeraldcoastduckregatta.com Jukebox Gala Over a gourmet four-course dinner, world-class opera singers give a preview of the upcoming opera season. Guests will have the opportunity to bid on popular selections from the operatic repertoire and musical theatre to be performed right at your table for you and your guests, courseby-course. All proceeds benefit Pensacola Opera. $150 per person. New World Landing, 600 S. Palafox St., Pensacola. (850) 433-6737 Kevin Tobin Acrylics Painting Workshops Enjoy a two-part workshop, “Design Inspiration from the World Around You,” and one half-day workshop, “Gel Skins and Transfer Images for Painting and Collage.” Golden paints and mediums will be provided along with prizes. Registration and payment must be made in advance. Two-part workshop $100 for

Seaside Homeowner Weekend Panel Richard Sexton, Leigh Gallagher and Robert Davis will speak in Seaside’s Assembly Hall. Afterward a reception in the Academic Village will follow. $30 in advance; $40 at the door. Seaside Assembly Hall. 5 p.m. seasideinstitute.org 30A Throwdown A weekend competition that honors local restaurant chefs for their culinary excellence. The main competition will be at V Seagrove on Saturday, but first, Chef David Cunningham and Chef Dan Vargo will team up to serve a collaborative dinner on Friday at Seagar’s Prime Steaks & Seafood. Each course will feature the talent of a different local chef. Pandora’s in Grayton Beach will host an after party on Saturday night and a brunch on Sunday morning. Come out and see who takes home the coveted Savor South Walton Champion award. For details, visit 30athrowdown.com. Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Put on a pink bra and raise funds and awareness for breast cancer at this spirited 5K run/walk throughout Destin. Proceeds benefit the Emerald Coast American Cancer Society. Donations appreciated. Uptown Station, Fort Walton Beach. 8 a.m. registration; 9 a.m. race. For details, call Donna Fought at (850) 585-9904 or email at donna.msabc@gmail.com. makingstrideswalk.org ‘Snow White’ The Fairest of Them All comes to the Emerald Coast this season in a premiere performance for the Northwest Florida Ballet. A mélange of music, including excerpts from Jules Massenet, Bedrich Smetana and Sir Arthur Sullivan, is the perfect accompaniment to this beloved tale staged with beautiful costumes and stunning scenery.

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com Octoberâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;November 2014

thecalendar $32 adults, $15 children (12 and under). Mattie Kelly Performing Arts Center, 100 College Blvd., Niceville. Sat 7 p.m., Sun 2:30 p.m. (850) 664-7787, nfballet.org

Oct. 22

Arts Design Society October Luncheon Watercolorist Mo Metrogen will speak on his artwork. Reservations are due by Oct. 20. $12 per person, $15 for late reservations. Art Center, 17 First St. S.E., Fort Walton Beach.11:30 a.m. For reservations, call (850) 682-8827 or email adsorsvp@gmail.com. artsdesignsociety.org

Oct. 22–26

Steven Brooke’s Architectural Photography & Composition Workshop Internationally renowned architectural photographer, Steven Brooke, will teach a five-day workshop combining the history of architectural depiction and composition with an accessible approach to the technical demands of photographing architecture, landscape and interiors. Seaside Academic Village. For prices and times visit seasideinstitute.org or email Seaside Institute Director Diane Dorney at ddorney@ seasideinstitute.org.

Oct. 23

Zig Ziglar Training Series: Building the Best You Take control of your destiny by climbing the stairway to success with small, consistent action steps. $110. Northwest Florida State College, Niceville Campus in Arpke Room 315, 100 College Blvd., Niceville. 8:30 a.m.–4:30 p.m. (850) 678-5111

Oct. 24

Microsoft Access Students will learn to design and create databases and tables, query those tables, and create forms and reports. $175. Northwest Florida State College, Niceville Campus in room 308/309, 100 College Blvd., Niceville. 8:30 a.m.–4:30 p.m. (850) 678-5111

Oct. 24–25

Haunted History Tours Take a guided walking tour of downtown Fort Walton Beach and learn some of its spooky history 50 October–November 2014

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com

from the characters and ghosts who made it. The tour is about 90 minutes. $10 for adults, $7 for children. 139 Miracle Strip Pkwy. S.E., Fort Walton Beach. Tour times: 6:30 p.m., 7 p.m., 7:30 p.m. (850) 833-9595, fwb.org/museums

Oct. 25

Halloweener Derby The Annual Halloweener Derby is a premier event with Seaside’s very own dachshund, Bud, headlining the races. Weiner dogs may enter the race, costume contest or both. Proceeds from this event benefit The Shelter House pet project. $30. Seaside. 8:30–11:45 a.m. halloweener.org

Oct. 30–Nov. 9

Cottages for Kids  With tremendous imagination and craftsmanship, builders and architects come together to create, construct and decorate whimsical cottages that look like they popped out from the pages of a fairytale. The cottages will be auctioned and raffled off to benefit Children’s Volunteer Health Network. FREE. Grand Park, Grand Boulevard at Sandestin, 600 Grand Blvd., Miramar Beach. The Kickoff Party is on Oct. 30 at 5 p.m. For a daily schedule, visit cottagesforkids.org.

Oct. 31

Halloween on the BOOlevard of Fun Join us for a frightfully entertaining family-friendly evening. Children are invited to trick or treat in the Town Center of Grand Boulevard at Sandestin and enjoy an amusingly spooky, live storytelling performance by characters from the Emerald Coast Theatre Company in Grand Park. While there, visit the whimsical display of Cottage for Kids in Grand Park for a special, ghostly gift. FREE. Grand Boulevard at Sandestin, 600 Grand Blvd., Miramar Beach. 4–7 p.m. Trick-orTreat; 5:30 p.m. storytime. (850) 837-3099, grandboulevard.com

Oct. 31–Nov. 2

Taste of the Beach The first weekend of November is the perfect time of year to explore wine and culinary offerings in South Walton. Taste of the Beach stretches across multiple venues over three days with wine tastings, dinner events, a charity auction and much more. $50–$95

Sandestin® Golf and Beach Resort

+festival

Baytowne Wharf Beer Fest Oct. 17–18 Cheers to 40 breweries serving up 200

domestic and international craft beers for sampling in The Village of Baytowne Wharf at Sandestin. Friday and Saturday, Oct. 17–18, brewery representatives will be available to discuss the different types of lagers and ales, educating patrons about the styles. Beer-themed events and games will also take place.

Friday tickets are $25 in advance and $30 the day of; Saturday tickets are $55 in advance and $60 the day of and include admission to both the VIP lunch at 12:30 p.m., the VIP party (2–6 p.m.) and an exclusive Baytowne Wharf Fest beer tasting glass. For more information, visit baytownewharfbeerfestival.com.

per person. Location and times vary according to venue. (850) 267-0683, tasteofthebeachfl.com

Nov. 1

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

‘Brothers in the Arts: 70 years of Freedom’ Sinfonia Gulf Coast was selected as the American orchestra for the U.S. premiere of this incredible new work celebrating the 70th anniversary of D-Day. Cocomposed by American Chris Brubeck and Frenchman Guillaume St. James, the piece brings together two continents and the world of jazz and symphonic music. $29.50–$75. Emerald Coast Convention Center, 1250 Emerald Coast Pkwy., Fort Walton Beach. 7:30 p.m. (850) 269-7129, sinfoniagulfcoast.org

Nov. 2

Nov. 1–31

Nov. 6

ADSO Window Display “Black and White, With a Touch of Red,” the oil and acrylic works of artist Anne Johnston, will be on display during the month of November in the studio windows of the Art Center, fronting First Street, Fort Walton Beach. Drive

Harbor Docks Charities’ 20th Annual Take-A-Kid Fishing Day Join Harbor Docks on the first Sunday of November as 400 local children are treated to a day of fishing in the Gulf of Mexico and Choctawhatchee Bay aboard some of Destin’s finest charter boats. Children are treated to breakfast before departing, and a family fish fry is held upon return to Harbor Docks around noon. Every child will be sent home with a rod and reel. FREE. Harbor Docks, 538 Harbor Blvd., Destin. 6 a.m.–1 p.m. (850) 837-2506, harbordocks.com 2nd Annual Ruth Chris’ Wine Walkabout Chef Ruston Johnson will serve a special menu in the East Bar and Courtyard featuring multiple culinary stations with heavy hors d’oeuvres paired with fine wines. Live music will be EmeraldCoastMagazine.com October–November 2014

Best Dermatology Practice on the Emerald Coast 2012, 2013 & 2014

52 Octoberâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;November 2014

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com License # MM32744

thecalendar performed by jazz artist Michael J. Thomas. Attendees also have the chance to win getaway vacations around the country through a charity raffle. The event benefits the Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation. $50 for non-members, $40 for members. Silver Shells Beach Resort and Spa, 15000 Emerald Coast Pkwy., Destin. 5:30–7:30 p.m. (850) 650-2226, mattiekellyartsfoundation.org

Nov. 6

Lunch & Learn: Facebook — The Rules of Engagement Discover the secrets behind creating engaging Facebook page content that your fans will love. Avoid the common Facebook marketing mistakes, guarantee your posts are seen and start getting measurable results. The world of Facebook marketing changes constantly, so recent updates and strategy shifts will be discussed. Prerequisite: Must have an active Facebook company or organization page. $50. Northwest Florida State College, Niceville Campus in Arpke Room 315, 100 College Blvd., Niceville. 11:30 a.m.–1:30 p.m. (850) 678-5111

Nov. 6–9

Seeing Red Wine Festival The 24th annual edition of Seaside’s most highly anticipated fall event allows wine lovers to sip, swirl and savor hundreds of domestic and international wines throughout the lovely community. When you find your favorites, you purchase them in the retail wine tent and take them home with you. Proceeds from Destin Charity Wine Auction Foundation (DCWAF) hosted events will benefit local children’s charities. The four days feature Vintner Dinner at Bud & Alley’s, Thurs 7 p.m. $125; Al Fresco Reserve Tasting, Fri 6–8 p.m. $200; Grand Tasting, Sat 1–4 p.m. $145; Great Southern Café Champagne tasting 11 a.m. $35; Walkabout and Auction, Sun 2–5 p.m. Seeingredwinefestival.com

Nov. 8–15

Nov. 12

Mannheim Steamroller Christmas Mannheim Steamroller Christmas by Chip Davis has been America’s favorite holiday tradition, and this year marks the 30th anniversary of the group’s annual tour. Grammy Award-winner Chip Davis has created a show that features the beloved Christmas music of Mannheim Steamroller along with dazzling multimedia effects performed in an intimate setting. $58–$88 per ticket. Saenger Theatre, 118 Palafox Place, Pensacola. 7:30 p.m. (850) 595-3880, pensacolasaenger.com

Nov. 13

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2nd Bourbon at the Bay Sip on bourbon, scotch and champagne, enjoy hors d’oeuvres and start your holiday shopping early at the silent auction. $35 per person. Regatta Bay, 465 Regatta Bay Blvd., Destin. 5:30–8 p.m. (850) 837-6241, destinchamber.com

Nov. 13–16

‘The Crucible’ Fort Walton Beach High School stages Arthur Miller’s 1953 classic story about the Salem witch trials that took place in the Province of Massachusetts Bay during 1692 and 1693. $10 per person. Fort Walton Beach High School, 400 Hollywood Blvd. S.W., Fort Walton Beach. Thurs–Sat 7 p.m., Sun 2 p.m. (850) 833-3300, fwbvikings.com

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Nov. 15

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An Evening of Sparkling Wines & Holiday Lights Toast the season at an event that truly sparkles. Kick off the holidays and get into the spirit with choral music, a tree lighting and sparkling wine. $40. The Village of Baytowne Wharf at Sandestin. 4–7 p.m., baytownesparklingwinefest.com

Nov. 18–Dec. 20

ADSO Christmas Art Market and Sale-a-bration ADSO members will be selling

17 Uptown Grayton Circle

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Art Week The Arts and Design Society’s annual celebration of the visual arts is open to all and hosts many two-hour classes in a variety of mediums as well as an art competition. The week concludes with an art party, which includes

demos, games and refreshments on the final evening. $25 for the first class, $20 for all classes afterward. All supplies are provided. Art Center, 17 First St. S.E., Fort Walton Beach. Art party Fri 6–8 p.m. (850) 244-1271. For class schedule, visit artsdesignsociety.org.

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EmeraldCoastMagazine.com October–November 2014

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Exclusive tickets and prize packages to The Emerald Coast’s best events are up for grabs! Visit emeraldcoastmagazine.com and look for the Top of the EC logo for your chance to enter and win the prize package above.

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thecalendar unique artwork, featuring an assortment of special creations, including jewelry, paintings, clay works, photographs, note cards and even plants and food specialties, all produced by the members. FREE with entry to Art Center. 17 First St. S.E., Fort Walton Beach. Open during Art Center gallery hours: Tues–Fri noon–4 p.m., Sat 1–4 p.m. (850) 244-1271, artsdesignsociety.org

Nov. 19

ADSO November Luncheon Stanley Zalace, a photographer whose particular niche is shelter animals, is using his photographs to help in these animals’ adoptions. Reservations are due by Nov. 17. $12 per person, $15 for late reservations. Art Center, 17 First St. S.E., Fort Walton Beach. 11:30 a.m. Call (850) 682-8827 or email adsorsvp@gmail. com to make reservations. artsdesignsociety.org

Nov. 20

Artist for Animals Artists for Animals combines the visual and performing arts to raise funds for Sinfonia Gulf Coast and Alaqua Animal Refuge. Alaqua and Sinfonia, along with Barber & Gall promotions, have invited various local artists to create individual works of art in various mediums including painting, sculpture, jewelry and

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more, while drawing inspiration from music and animals. These pieces of art will be auctioned off. $50. Location TBA. 5:30–8:30 p.m. (850) 420-0634

Nov. 20–22

Don Andrews Watercolor Workshop Nationally known watercolorist Don Andrews will again offer a workshop at ADSO, sharing techniques using this medium to create landscapes. Art Center, 17 First St. S.E., Fort Walton Beach. 9 a.m.–4 p.m. Call (850) 244-1271 for pricing. artsdesignsociety.org

Nov. 25

Festival of Trees Kickoff  Get into the spirit with a stroll through a festive display of dozens of holiday trees trimmed in honor of local charities and causes. Vote for your favorite and help deserving nonprofit organizations win $5,000 in cash prizes. The trees remain on display Nov. 25–Dec. 31 in Grand Park in Grand Boulevard at Sandestin. FREE. 600 Grand Blvd., Miramar Beach. (850) 837-3099, grandboulevard.com

Nov. 27

30A Thanksgiving 10K and Fun Run This Thanksgiving Day, the 30A charity road race returns to Rosemary Beach for a third year.

Registration is $65 for the 10K and $25 for the 1 Mile Fun Run. Event proceeds benefit local nonprofit groups. Pick up packets on Wednesday, Nov. 26, from 1–7 p.m. at The Pearl in Rosemary Beach. 10K starts at 7:30 a.m. and 1 mile begins at 7:35 a.m. Register online (until Nov. 25) at 30A10K.com. Contact Karen Meadows at (850) 325-0561 or info@30A10K.com.

Nov. 27

Harbor Docks Charities 20th Annual Thanksgiving Day Feast Everyone is welcome to gather at Harbor Docks for a true Thanksgiving tradition. Donations welcome. All proceeds raised benefit Habitat for Humanity and Destin Harvest projects. FREE. Harbor Docks, 538 Harbor Blvd., Destin. 11 a.m.–7 p.m. (850) 837-2506, harbordocks.com

Nov. 28

‘Cirque Dreams Holidaze’ Cirque Dreams Holidaze lights up the 2014 holiday season with its newest stage spectacular that is “so full of energy it could end our dependence on oil” according to the New York Daily News. Call for ticket prices. Saenger Theatre, 118 Palafox Place, Pensacola. 7:30 p.m. (850) 595-3880, pensacolasaenger.com. ec

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socialstudies

Isabella Chance and Mia

Tiffanie and Emma Shelton

Great American Picnic June 8, 2014 Life was a picnic for the more than 700 guests who ventured to WaterSound Origins with family and friends. The free community event featured classic American picnic food by WaterSound Origins Café, live music by the Forrest Williams Band and family-friendly fun in the sun. The evening ended with a fireworks show over Wind Garden Park. Proceeds will benefit Food for Thought and Alaqua Animal Refuge.

Angie Ray

Photos by Modus Photography

3rd Annual Walk Her Way June 13, 2014 Led by a New Orleans-style brass band, more than 200 women, children and men strutted and strolled around the square in Rosemary Beach in high-heel shoes to raise awareness for domestic violence and $31,000 for Shelter House and the Rosemary Beach Foundation. After the walk, guests kicked up their adorned heels to the sounds of the Village Brass Band presented by The Merchants of Rosemary Beach. Photos by Justin King with Fedora Photography

Lucy King and Henry King with Michelle Sperzel

Sacred Heart Heals 56 October–November 2014

Jamil Harris EmeraldCoastMagazine.com

Anchors | Smith | Grimsley Proudly serving the community for over 50 years

Lawyers from the Community, for the Community. Anchors Smith Grimsley is comprised of eleven lawyers with deep, life-long ties to the Northwest Florida community. Our law ﬁrm provides a full range of legal services throughout the Florida Panhandle. By combining over two centuries of collective legal experience that crosses a broad range of practice areas with an unparalleled insight into the legal, social and political environment of Northwest Florida, the lawyers at ASG are able to service the many and varied needs of our clients. The lawyers and staff of ASG invite you to E XPERIENCE O UR E XPERIENCE . • Real Property Transactions, Litigation, Development and Foreclosures • General Civil Law and Trials • Banking Law • Commercial and Business Transactions and Litigation • Family Law, Divorce and Child Custody • Estate Planning • Probate and Guardianship • Criminal Law, Trials and DUI • Construction and Lien Law • Collection and Creditor’s Rights • Personal Injury and Wrongful Death • Bankruptcy • Landlord / Tenant

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socialstudies

Coconut Radio DJ Shane

Insurance Zone

Smoke on the Coast BBQ and Fireworks Festival July 3, 2014 The opening of 22 stores and restaurants in Destin Commons was cause for celebration. The fourth annual Smoke on the Coast BBQ event was the perfect way for locals and visitors to get a taste of the newly expanded retail center while enjoying a barbecue cook-off, kid’s activities, street performers and continuous live bands performing on two stages along with a spectacular fireworks finale. Proceeds from the event will benefit select local military and charities.

Easy Ed’s BBQ

Photos by Kay Phelan

Grayton ArtWalk Aug. 7, 2014 Award-winning Grayton Beach artists and designers Andy Saczynski, Mary Hong, Justin Lyons, Allison Craft, Nicole Paloma, Modus Photography and more welcomed the public to peek inside their cottage-style galleries, studios and workspaces for a meet-and-greet-style event. Missed it? You can join in the first Thursday of each month. Photos by Chase Yakaboski Zach Garner, Sam Douangdara and Justin Lyons

Karl Shaw 58 October–November 2014

Susan Rutkowski, Joy Elpedes, Judy Hoogewerf, Paige Cuison and Michelle Link EmeraldCoastMagazine.com

Annie Parker and Zandra Wolfgram

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com Octoberâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;November 2014

CELEBRATE your WINNERS! The 2014 Best of the Emerald Coast Event

October 25 l 6–9:00pm Grand Boulevard at Sandestin® Brought to you by EC Magazine to beneﬁt the Junior League of the Emerald Coast. The 2014 winners will be on display at Grand Boulevard. The public is invited to an evening of food, fun, fashion and entertainment. Join us at our 14th annual event as we sample from the best restaurants, shopping and businesses on the Emerald Coast. Tickets on sale September 1 at EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM $30 in advance ($40 day of event)

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Thank You for Voting Us Best Landscaping/Lawn Service 14 Racetrack Road NE, Ft. Walton Beach 850.862.3334 | sebridals.com 60 October–November 2014

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com

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EmeraldCoastMagazine.com

e to Take Best Plac the Kids

Best of the Emerald Coast

The fall season always tends to bring out our sentimental side. The artful mix of plump pumpkins, trees adorned in beautifully rusted golden hues, lingering family dinners and evershortening breezy days that melt into brisk nights encourages us to take note of the things that truly matter. And a few things that make the whole year go round, too. For example, where one can find the very best Italian restaurant in town, or get the car repaired by fair and honest folks. Or, when good ol’ Spot eats something he ought not to have, which veterinarian has the best reputation. Or where the most flavorful Bloody Mary can be found. Or pizza. Or the best acupuncturist. Or … Actually, once we started thinking about it, our must-love list is pretty extensive. This year, we counted 141 things that we were oh so thankful for. So we turned to you, because no one knows the EC like our readers. Without a doubt, you are the heart and soul of this region, which is exactly why, year after year, we leave the judging of the best of our best to you. And you certainly haven’t failed us yet! This year, just like the past 13, you have earnestly scrutinized the contenders and mailed in your ballots with your beloved top picks. Well, ladies and gents, the results are in. Beginning on this very page you’ll find everything you need to know in order to best navigate your way through this beautiful stretch of coast for another year. Be sure to congratulate your neighbors on their victories — with all the amazing bits and pieces, people and places that make up our region, it’s a wonder how you ever decided at all. And don’t forget to come out and celebrate your Best of the Emerald Coast 2014 winners on Saturday, Oct. 25, from 6 to 9 p.m. at Grand Boulevard at Sandestin in true EC fashion. Isn’t it about time for all of us to get together again, anyway? We would love to see you there. We congratulate all of the 2014 winners of The Best of the Emerald Coast and thank them for making our region the best destination ever. — By Chay D. Baxley

Entertainment 1

Best Art Gallery

Best DJ

Best Golf Course

Justin Gaffrey Studio Gallery DJ Rock the House Regatta Bay Golf Course

Best Place for Kids Birthday Party

Abrakadoodle

DESTIN, FORT WALTON, NAVARRE, GULF BREEZE, SANDESTIN, NICEVILLE, BLUEWATER, SANTA ROSA BEACH, GRAYTON, WATERCOLOR, PANAMA CITY BEACH, abrakadoodle.com

Best Local Artist

Andy Saczynski 6 Best Local Attraction

Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park 7

Best Local Event

30A Songwriters Festival 8 Best Musician/ Vocalist/Band

Cadillac Willy

9 Best Place To Be Seen

HarborWalk Village

10 Best Place To Go Dancing

John Wehner’s Village Door

11 Best Place To Take the Kids

Big Kahuna’s Water and Adventure Park

12 Best Place To Watch a Sunset

Harry T’s Lighthouse

13 Best Radio Personality

Dan Collins 14

Best Resort

Best Tennis Facility

Kansas PitTs

Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort Seascape Golf Beach & Tennis Resort

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com October–November 2014

At Westco Protection, our mission is simple: keep you, your family and your business safe. We are locals. We live here, our families live here, our friends live here. We frequent and support local businesses. This is our community, and we are dedicated to protecting it.

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Best

Food & Beverage

of the Emerald Coast

Search past winners online at EmeraldCoastMagazine.com

16 Best Appetizer

Bonefish Grill®

Bonefish Grill 4447 Commons Dr E, Destin bonefishgrill.com

Panera Bread 18

Best Bakery

Bon Appetit 19

Best BBQ

Jim ‘N Nick’s Bar-B-Q Best Beer Selection 20

Miller’s Ale House

21 Best Bloody Mary

The Red Bar

Best Buffalo Wings

Best Cajun/Creole

Buffalo’s Reef The Marigny 26

Best Breakfast

Another Broken Egg 23

Best Brunch

Mama Clemenza’s European Breakfast

Best Chinese

P.F. Chang’s China Bistro 28

Best Coffee

Bad Ass Coffee Co. 29

Best Dessert

Café Bolo 30

Best Chef

Clovis DASilva of Fat Clemenza’s

Best Fine Dining

Ruth’s Chris Steak House 31 Best French Restaurant

Bijoux

32 Best Gourmet/Food Shop/Specialty Food Store

Fresh Market

33 Best Grouper Sandwich

Elephant Walk 4009 S Sandestin Blvd, Miramar Beach elephantwalkatsandestin.com

Best Gumbo

Dewey Destin’s Seafood Restaurant 35

Best Hamburger

Best Happy Hour

McGuire’s Irish Pub

Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar 37

Best Hibachi

Osaka

Best Martini

Best Mediterranean

Bonefish Grill Elephant Walk

17 Best Bagel Shop

Best Frozen Treat

Bruster’s Real Ice Cream 39

Best Italian

Clemenza’s at Uptown Station 40 Best Locally Owned Restaurant

Callahan’s Restaurant & Deli 41

Best Margarita

Cantina Laredo

Aegean Restaurant

44 Best Mexican/ Latin Restaurant

Pepito’s Mexican Restaurant 45

Best Onsite Catering

Best Outdoor Bar

Best Outdoor Dining

Best Oysters

Best Pizza

Signature Catering of 30A AJ’s Seafood & Oyster Bar Boshamps Seafood & Oyster House Boshamps Seafood & Oyster House Fat Clemenza’s

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com October–November 2014

2013, 2014

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Best Aesthetician

66 October–November 2014

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DESTIN • SEACREST BEACH ON 30A (850) 424-6677 wellsvisioncenter.com

Best of the Emerald Coast

Service Providers 61 Best Accounting Firm

73 Best Charity/ Non-profit

62 Best Acupuncture Clinic

74 Best Charter Boat/Watersports

Carter & Company, LLC The Tortoise Clinic 63

Best Aesthetician

Kerrie Beth (K.B.) Dalal (Oasis Skin Care at The Blount Medical Group) 64

Best Airport

Destin Jet 65

Best Architect

Matt Burke

W Architects PA (Bill Pope) Best ATV/ Golf/Electric Cart Dealership 66

Best Restaurant (Okaloosa County) 50

Clemenza’s at Uptown Station

Best Restaurant (Walton County) 51

Fat Clemenza’s

Best Romantic/Special Occassion Restaurant 52

Ruth’s Chris Steak House 53

Best Sandwich Shop

Lenny’s Sub Shop 54

Best Seafood Market

Best Sports Bar

Miller’s Ale House 34906 Emerald Coast Pkwy, Destin 5906 North Davis Hwy, Pensacola millersalehouse.com

Destin Ice Seafood Market & Deli Best Seafood Restaurant 55

Dewey Destin’s Seafood Restaurant

56 Best Service– Food & Beverage

Seagar’s Prime Steaks & Seafood

Best Steakhouse

Ruth’s Chris Steak House 59

Best Sushi

Harbor Dock’s Restaurant 60

Best Thai

Royal Orchid

Coastal Cruisers LLC

Best Audio/ Visual Provider 67

Innovative Sight & Sound

Best Automobile Dealership 68

Sam Taylor Buick GMC Cadillac

Sinfonia Gulf Coast Destin Vacation Boat Rentals

75 Best Chiropractic Practice

Payne Chiropractic Wellness Center

76 Best Computer Repair/Tech Support

Hi-Tech Solutions

77 Best Cosmetic/Plastic Surgery Practice

Destin Plastic Surgery

Best Customer Service 78

Avantgarde Salon & Spa

79 Best Dance/Ballet/ Gymnastics Class

U.S. Gold Gymnastics & Cheerleading 80

Best Dental Practice

Legendary Marine

Center for Cosmetic and Family Dentistry

70 Best Builder/ Contractor

Best Dental Specialty

69 Best Boat Sales & Service

Dixon Kazek Morrison Custom Homes, LLC 71

Best Auto Repair

Sam Taylor Buick GMC Cadillac

Best Car/Limo/ Shuttle Service 72

D’luxe Limousines

M. Scott Runnels, DMD, PA

82 Best Dermatology Practice

Coastal Skin Surgery & Dermatology 83

Best Dry Cleaner

Total Laundry Services

84 Best Event Planning Company

Barber & Gall Promotions 85

Best Eye Doctor Practice

Wells Vision and Laser Eye Center 86 Best Financial Institution

Regions Bank 87

Best Flooring

Best Florist

Infinity Flooring GG Bloom

89 Best Gym/Health Club/Fitness Center

Destin Health & Fitness Club 90

Best Hair Salon

Avantgarde Salon & Spa 91 Best Heating and Air Service

Gulfshore Air Conditioning & Heating Inc. 92

Best Insurance Agency

Insurance Zone 93 Best Interior Design Firm

Design Avenue

94 Best Landscaping/ Lawn Service

Landscape Restorations 95

Best Law Firm

Best Lighting Store

Best Locksmith

Best Martial

Matthews & Jones

Beautiful Lights Destin Locksmithing Arts/Karate Resolute Martial Arts & Family Fitness

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com October–November 2014

Best of the Emerald Coast

114 Best Real Estate Group

Best Massage Therapist

100

Beachy Beach Real Estate

Best Media Provider

Cox Communications

Best Security/ Alarm System 115

Westco Protection

Best Medical Center/Hospital 101

Sacred Heart Hospital on the Emerald Coast 102

Best Medical Practice

103

Best Mortgage Lender

104

Best Nail Salon

105

Best Wedding/ Reception Venue

Hugs and Hissyfits

118 Best Surgical Practice

Destin Surgery Center 119

Best Title Company

McNeese Title, LLC

120

Best Pet Care/Shop

Best Photo Booth Company

127 Best Children’s Clothing Retailer

135 Best Outdoor Furniture Retailer

Bay Breeze Patio

136 Best Sporting Goods Retailer

Bass Pro Shops 137

Best Wedding Shop

Simply Elegant

124 Best Weight Loss Facility

The Blount Medical Group (Dr. Calvin Blount, Jr.)

Airport Veterinary Clinic 900 Airport Rd, Destin

Facetime Photobooth

128 Best Consignment/ Resale Shop

Best Photographer

Roland Moriarty Photographs

Ava’s Attic Consignment Boutique

109 Best Physical Therapy Practice

PT Solutions Physical Therapy

129

Best Plumbing Fixtures

130 Best Furniture Retailer

Sugar Beach Interiors

111 Best Pool Building/ Service Company

Cox Pools

68 October–November 2014

Katrice Howell

Think LLC

ResortQuest By Wyndham Vacation Rentals

131

Best Gift Shop

132

Best Jewelry Store

138 Best Women’s Accessories

Barefoot Princess 4 Watercolor Boulevard, Santa Rosa Beach 9300 Emerald Coast Pkwy, Miramar Beach

Design Avenue

Best Printing Services

113 Best Property Management Group

Best Eyewear Store

Wells Vision and Laser Eye Center

A&G Professional Plumbing Service, Inc.

112

Solaris Yacht

Sporty Lady

Best Men’s Apparel

Destin Threads

Best Veterinarian

107

110

123

126

134

Best Personal Trainer

Furry Fanatics

108

Smith’s Antiques & Interiors Market

Best Specialty Fitness

Matt Staver (Blueprint Health Studio) 106

Best Antiques Shop

Enchanted Beach Weddings

Best Spa Services

Pure Barre

4 Seasons Nail & Spa

122 Best Wedding Planner Company

125

Serenity by the Sea 117

ENG Lending

ResortQuest By Wyndham Vacation Rentals

Shopping Best Beachwear Retailer

116

the Blount Medical Group (Dr. Calvin Blount,Jr.)

121 Best Vacation Rental Company/ Service

Katrice Howell

Neal Senn

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com

McCaskill & Company 133 Best Locally Owned Retailer

Today’s Boutique

139 Best Women’s Apparel

Today’s Boutique 140

Best Women’s Shoes

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EmeraldCoastMagazine.com October–November 2014

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MAX Alex Szaro’s LBP (little black pug), Max, adds plenty of attitude to Terra’s strappy black high heels ($325) by BCBG. Max is wearing a vintage necklace to add a bit of sparkle to the look. Similar styles available for less at Silver Sands Premium Outlet.

bow

wow! By Rosa n n e Dun kel berg er St yl ed by: Terra Pa l m er; P hotos: B l a ke Green e

An eye-catching ensemble is always a goal for the aspiring fashionista, and one of the best ways to “put on the dog” and get noticed is by adding a cute canine to your look. After all, who can resist a wet nose, wagging tail and an enthusiastic greeting from Man’s Best Friend? In these photos, bedecked and bedazzled canines hit the catwalk and “beg” the spotlight alongside models, Terra Palmer and Alice Watts, who took time out to go vogue for us.

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com October–November 2014

bow

wow!

Charlotte York Pearls accent Alice’s LBD by 4 Collection ($265) and Rockwell Tharp shoes ($258), from Sunset Shoes.

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Siera This ensemble is a “shore thing” for English Bulldog Siera, owned by Greg and Jennifer Albritton. Siera is sporting a preppy plaid High Cotton bow tie ($46) from Focus. Alice is wearing a breezy Joseph Walker dress ($98) available at Me Deux, Tory Burch platforms ($325), a “lobstah” look scarf ($18) available at Teena Haven and an anchor bracelet ($13). Her purse is by Sailor Sailor ($65) available at Surroundings on the Harbor. The colorful Bourbon and Bowties stone bracelets are priced from $28 to $44 and can be found at Destin Threads.

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com October–November 2014

bow

wow!

Spencer Andy and Stephanie Nolan’s Schnauzer shines with a sparkly flowered headband ($298), while Alice keeps it simply elegant with an Alfred Sung dress ($186), crystal bracelet ($342) and fabric and rhinestone brooches ($100) — all from Vocelles Bridal Shoppe in Tallahassee.

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Honey Alice kicks up her bright pink Lilly Pulitzer slingback heels ($198) from Barefoot Princess. She’s also sporting an Amanda Uprichard dress ($205) from Destin Threads, a pink-and white Kate Spade fashion watch ($225) and a stack of Kate Spade bangle bracelets ($48–$78) available at Silver Sands Premium Outlets. Honey, Golden Doodle companion to Anne Jolley Byrd, is wearing Spring Fling ($88) and Caroline Hill ($34) statement necklaces from Pink Narcissus at Pier Park.

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com October–November 2014

bow

wow!

Annie English Pointer Annie is taking Alice’s lead, courtesy of a leather collar and antique chain by Chic Verte. She’s wearing Rockwell boots ($418) from Sunset Shoes and J Brand Jeans shorts ($148), leather keychain ($55) and Splendid Shirt tee ($62) all from Luxe Apothetique at Destin Commons. Her Free People fringe vest ($138), found at Destin Threads, is accented by ballerina ($78) and braided ($65) bracelets from Chic Verte.

76 October–November 2014

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com

Charlotte York This Charlotte York isn’t from “Sex and the City,” she’s a King Charles Spaniel who’s getting the royal treatment with a rhinestone-encrusted headband ($197) and comb from Vocelles Bridal Shoppe. Alice’s lavender dress and rhinestone pearl Bracelets are also Vocelle’s. The purplehued necklace ($100), cuff bracelet ($80) and ring ($42) are from Ardan’s Salon.

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com October–November 2014

arts the

mean business The growing pains of the Emerald Coast art scene

you quickly surmise that art is also nourishing botSome say art is the food of the soul. But tom lines … by the billions, no less. if you are in Target in Destin, you can say that some So why aren’t art organizations’ bankrolls as flush food is art, or at least packaged that way. If you are as those of established artist entrepreneurs like hungry for cookies you can grab up a bag of ImmacBrent? If art organizations generate $8 for every ulate Chocolate Chip Cookie mix and All Purpose dollar that local, state and federal governments inFlour and feast your eyes on the striking folk art of vest in them, why do so many seem to Santa Rosa Beach artist Andy Saczynski still be flailing? And if they have such prominently displayed on the package. great right-brained board members, why Perhaps this opportunity tastes even are they in constant fundraising mode? sweeter because Saczynski didn’t even reWell, as most things in any business, alize his panther and butterfly paintings it comes down to resources — financial were purchased by marketing executives and human. And simply put, most art at the 2013 Slotkin Folk Festival in Atorganizations don’t have enough of eilanta. He just knew they loved his art and ther. It didn’t help that in 2013–14 Flordidn’t haggle over the asking price. Fast ida experienced a 73 percent reduction forward just nine months, and the Nicevfor its matching arts and cultural grants ille native is a household name. Well, at The Immaculate Baking Company program administered by the Florida least in household cupboards. brand features Department of State’s Division of CulSaczynski, 37, is new to merchandisthe work of folk tural Affairs. ing his art and has only been a profesartists, like Andy Saczynski, on its There is funding, but many local artsional artist full time since March 2013. packaging. They ists and art organizations do not seem But like his vivid, dimensional artwork, say, “We not only to be aware of where or how to access it. he quickly turned heads by being Voted love the images, but deeply respect Lori Saczynski, who is married to Andy Best Artist on the Emerald Coast (2012 the integrity of the and handles the business side of Andy and 2013) and named Best Artist of the self-taught artists who create them. Saczynski Gallery, said despite being Year (2013) by the South Walton Tourist Why? Because like “tech savvy” and online quite often, she Development Council. our approach to is not aware of any agencies or funding The point being, that art for art’s sake baking, folk art is the very definition sources. “We wouldn’t know where to beis nourishing for the spirit, but … one of handmade: gin to find them,” she says. look at Panama City artist Paul Brent’s simple, pure and from the heart.” This is surely frustrating for journalist vast merchandise collections empire and

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Lori Saczynski (Saczynski) and Courtesy of Immaculate Baking Company

By Zandra Wolfgram

Art

is Good for You

Students with an education rich in the arts have higher GPAs and standardized test scores, lower dropout rates and even better attitudes about community service … regardless of socioeconomic status. Schools in high-poverty areas that developed arts-integrated curricula showed improvement in reading and mathematics. At-risk youth participating in the arts increased their ability to communicate effectively, complete tasks and showed a decreased frequency of delinquent behavior. 78 percent of health care institutions providing arts programming, such as Sacred Heart on the Emerald Coast’s Arts in Medicine program, do so because of their healing benefits to patients — shorter hospital stays, better pain management and less medication. Source: Florida Division of Cultural Affairs

After years of working nights and weekends, Andy Saczynski now has his own studio gallery in Grayton Beach, where he creates colorful and playful folk art out of repurposed materials.

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com October–November 2014

On June 12 the U.S. Senate confirmed Dr. Jane Chu as chair of the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA). Chu was the president and CEO of the Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts in Kansas City, Missouri. Before joining the Kauffman Center in 2006, Chu served as fund executive at the Kauffman Fund for Kansas City, vice president of external relations for the Union Station Kansas City and vice president of community investment for the Greater Kansas City Community Foundation. She holds degrees in visual arts, piano performance and piano pedagogy, an MBA and a Ph.D. in philanthropic studies. Nonprofit Connect in Kansas City recently named her Nonprofit Professional of the Year. Since 1965, the NEA has awarded over $5 billion in grants across all 50 states via local, state and federal partnerships. Each grant dollar on average is matched by $9 of additional investments. The NEA is the largest annual national supporter of the nonprofit arts in the United States. All together, the nonprofit arts industry and its audience is a $135 billion industry employing 4.1 million Americans.

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The new chair of the National Endowment for the Arts is seasoned arts executive Dr. Jane Chu of Kansas City; For nearly 20 summers, the Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation has staged an outdoor summer concert series in Destin.

Kansas Pitts

David O’Connor/RISD

Dr. Jane Chu Named NEA Chair

Brenda Shoffner, a longtime arts advocate and features editor for the Northwest Florida Daily News, who has a unique perspective from her perch as an appointed member of the Florida Council on the Arts — a seat she’s held for nearly two years. Despite penning numerous columns about state-level resources over the years, the low participation level from the Northwest Florida area remains a disappointment to her, because she knows how vibrant the art scene is. “I never cease to be amazed at the talent here in fine, performing and visual arts,” she says. After 20 years of covering the arts scene, Shoffner also knows that local artists are not “singing for their supper.” In fact they are buying groceries and more. “Artists are making their home here, they are setting up businesses and raising families here,” she says. (And all across the country, too, to the tune of a $135.2 billion industry.) But the arts were not always alive and thriving on the Emerald Coast. Shoffner grew up in the area in the 1970s, and she remembers having to drive to Pensacola or Panama City to see a Broadway tour production. Today, being tasked with publishing the Showcase calendar each Thursday, she is keenly aware of just how many art events take place year-round. Through the arts were not always thriving on the Emerald Coast, being tasked with publishing the Showcase calendar each Thursday, Shoffner is keenly aware of just how many art events take place yearround. “It’s always astonishing to me when people complain about the arts in our area,” she says. If anything the vast growth has led to a glut of art events from time to time, leaving Shoffner wishing there

was more cooperation among art organizations to better organize and schedule all the offerings. Still, despite some losses (Emerald Coast Concert Association shut its doors after 53 years, and local visual artist Don Sawyer is closing his Destin studio gallery and moving out of state), Shoffner remains optimistic about the future and points to new organizations popping up. “The performing arts in particular are just blossoming,” she says. Nathanael Fisher is one. He, and his wife, Anna, founded Emerald Coast Theatre Festival in 2012. Being new to the business end of the arts, Fisher has been proactive in seeking information. In June his application was selected along with just 23 others by the Florida Division of Cultural Affairs to participate in a hands-on workshop presented by the leaders of the Creative Capital Foundation. Fisher said his goal was to “absorb valuable skills and training” in order to develop his “artistry as a theater director and playwright.” The 43-year-old also reached out to senior art organization leaders for guidance. Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation (MKAF) CEO Marcia Hull answered the call. MKAF is nearing its 20th anniversary, and after serving as CEO for 15 of those years Hull, 60, is a savvy executive and considered a sage in art industry circles. After numerous trips to the capital to defend grants, lobby political leaders and glad-hand any and all potential donors — including Mike Huckabee at a Rotary breakfast — Hull has become a passionate “voice” for the local arts community to anyone willing to listen.

“It’s the industry I represent. I want to be an advocate and champion for the Emerald Coast,” she says. “And, who knows, maybe even on a state level one day.” Hull’s modus opperandi is leading by example. And hers is one to follow. MKAF has more than 300 members, a diverse board full of engaged professionals and solid financials. Still, with just a two-person staff, Hull works tirelessly to continually solicit funds, recruit board members and, if necessary, “clean the restrooms.” What is Hull’s secret to success? Strategic planning. “We have an annual planning meeting, and out of that is a document that is essentially our business plan,” she says. “It’s our bible.” And when operated successfully, the arts translate into a desirable place to live and work. And that lures even more businesses. So much so that in January 2009, the Florida Chamber identified quality of life as a key component to Florida’s economic recovery. The Chamber specifically cited arts and culture as a way to attract business and improve quality of life for Floridians. Hull recalls the arts push a few years ago. Perhaps the focus at the state level is what motivated local participation in a fivecity tour of the Florida League of Cities called “Culture Builds Florida Communities” that included a stop in Fort Walton Beach for a session held at the Northwest Florida Ballet in March 2011. Just six months later in September, the Okaloosa Economic Development Council was inspired to put the arts on the agenda for a high profile roundtable symposium called a “Salute to Arts & Tourism” for the first time; Hull was seated on the panel. EmeraldCoastMagazine.com October–November 2014

culture In August, Immaculate Baking Company commissioned local artist Andy Saczynski to hand paint a 40-footlong billboard in downtown Minneapolis.

How to Be a Professional Artist in 12 Steps When I was pregnant with our fifth child, Andy told me that he wanted to be a full-time artist. I objected, saying there’s a good reason the term “starving artist” exists. I couldn’t fathom how he was going to support our family of seven as a full-time artist, but he was determined. Slowly but surely, his dream also became my dream, and I have done my best to help him along the way. Within two-and-a-half years of declaring his career intentions, Andy’s part-time hobby became a full-time profession. And guess what? We aren’t starving! I’m not necessarily an expert, but if you want to know how to be a professional artist, I’m happy to share what’s worked for us.

1 2

Follow Your Heart Make what you like. Don’t just make what you think people will buy. Stick with your vision and your creativity. When your heart is in your work, it will always turn out better.

Look for Good Deals on Materials Try to keep your expenses low. You can find “oops” paint at Home Depot and Lowe’s for a fraction of what paint usually costs. Also, every time we make a purchase at Michaels, a 40 percent off coupon is printed with our receipt. Use those coupons to buy canvas or expensive paintbrushes.

Document Your Work I take a digital photo of every piece of art Andy creates. The file names include the name of the art and the dimensions. There are many ways to document your work, but this has worked best for us.

Price Your Art Visit multiple galleries or search for original artwork online. How do you feel your art compares to the competition? Also, take into consideration how long the piece took to make and how much you spent on materials, then do the math.

Get Online Do not depend only on social media. You want customers all over the world to find you. You need an Internet presence. Get a Web site. Buying a domain name is cheap, and WordPress makes building a site fairly easy. Don’t depend on social media, but don’t ignore it either. Social media is a great way for people to discover you, share your stuff and communicate with you. Pick a few platforms, and start building your presence. So far, our experience has been best

82 October–November 2014

with Facebook and Instagram, because they’re the most photo-heavy. Play around and see what you like.

Keep Track of Sales You can get fancy with QuickBooks or stay simple with Excel, but do something! You need to find a way to keep your income and expenses organized. I’d suggest calling an accountant to find out what all you can write off for tax purposes. Save your receipts!

Don’t Forget to Collect Sales Tax Collect sales tax, and report it at the end of each month. Be smart and make sure you know what the tax rate is where the transaction occurs, collect that money and then give it to the government in a timely manner.

Accept Credit Cards Do you want to sell art for a lot of money? Well, guess what? Most people don’t carry two grand in their wallet, nor do they carry a checkbook. Make sure you have the ability to accept payment with plastic. A good place to get started is Square.

Donate and Participate If you want to get your name and your work out there, there are two great ways. First, donate your art to charities. Consider who your target market is, then think about which charities those people might support. Donate a piece of art to those charities’ silent auctions. Second, participate in art festivals. Not only will you get good exposure, you will get to meet a lot of new people who may become good customers. Plus, you’ll probably sell a lot of art! A warning, though: People like to haggle at festivals. Put a little wiggle room

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com

By Lori Saczynski

in your prices and prepare yourself mentally that some people are downright rude. Try to not take it personally, and stand firm on your pricing when you don’t feel like negotiating. Remember, this is your career, not a yard sale.

Get Your Work in Galleries  Visit galleries. Meet the gallery owners. Pursue gallery representation. Most galleries take a big percentage (like 50 percent), so you’ll need to adjust your pricing accordingly. When you’re selling enough to pay your bills and then some, consider opening your own gallery. This is risky, but the payoff is huge. Were we scared to open a gallery? Of course. Do we regret opening a gallery? No way. But we learned how to swim before we surfed. Which leads me to #11 …

Don’t Quit Your Day Job Before You’re Ready When Andy decided to be a full-time working artist, he didn’t do it overnight. He kept his day job and made art at night and on the weekends. He participated in some festivals. He donated art to charities. He got in a gallery. As art sales went up, his “day job” hours went down. It went from 10/90, to 50/50, to 90/10, and so on. This process took two-and-a-half years until his old job was completely phased out in March 2013. Now he’s living his dream of being a professional artist, but it didn’t happen overnight. Dreams take a lot of time and a lot of work.

Keep Making New Art  Andy is always growing as an artist. When we compare his current work to stuff that he did a year or two ago, he’s noticeably improved (and sales have also improved). I know that will continue to happen as time goes on. As with anything in life, if you keep working on it and keep moving forward, you are bound to improve. While you’re working and improving, you will face rejection and disappointment, but don’t give up. If the transition from hobby to career takes awhile, don’t be discouraged. Let it motivate you to continually improve. If your dream is to be a professional artist, you CAN do it. This article was first published as a blog post on artbyandyski.com on Nov. 9, 2013.

Watch the “real time” video at EmeraldCoastMagazine.com

Janice LeCocq

Those high-profile events are not the first time leaders convened to discuss the arts. Shoffner recalls a daylong symposium on the arts held in Navarre in 1996. But, little came of that either. Over the past 15 years, despite her efforts to attend workshops, forums and panels in order to speak up and out about the arts, little has resulted from it. “Nothing happens,” she says. “It would be great if we could work better together.” For this arts advocate the stakes for the arts couldn’t be higher. “Quality of life is a strategy. It’s not a luxury,” Hull says emphatically. But no matter what the political climate, or how many grants she’s denied, Hull’s personal mission remains clear. “We just have to promote the arts. It’s our responsibility to our community to give it a sense of place. I just can’t imagine living anywhere without arts and culture. And who would want to?” There’s an old adage that says the “squeaky wheel gets the grease.” Nearly 75 percent of all visitors to Florida attend some kind of cultural art event across the state each year. And when they visit, cultural-minded tourists spend more money than non-cultural visitors and twice as much as local attendees. Pensacola does not need to be convinced of the marketing might of the arts. They are “packaging” all of the arts and culture offerings in the area during a two-week time period in November to drive up off-season visitation. Visit Pensacola President Steve Hayes said, “To me this should be one of our greatest message points. I don’t think it’s been done in the past, but yet it could really drive our business.” And the South Walton Tourist Development Council sees the opportunity, too. In an online community survey of about 1,200 people, 52.8 percent said they’d like to see a multi-purpose cultural facility, which landed it No. 8 on a 12-point list of possible capital improvements. Lower on the list, at No. 11, is an art and history museum, favored by nearly 30 percent of those polled. Beyond tourism, which certainly is big business for a destination like Florida, there is also the industry itself to consider. It is not the largest employer, but acThe Arts are Good for cording to the Florida Office of Cultural Affairs there are nearly 65,000 arts-related businesses that employ more than » O ver 57 million people 217,406 people across the state. attend arts and cultural events That’s pretty squeaky. in Florida each year. Throughout 2014, the Flori» 74.9% of visitors to Florida da Division of Cultural Affairs participate in cultural activities. is undertaking an initiative to develop a new strategic plan. » C ultural visitors spend more The current plan is called Culthan twice as much as ture Builds Florida’s Future local attendees. and is viewable at florida-art. » F lorida’s cultural tourists spend org/about/strategicplan. But more than tourists not attending they are soliciting input for a cultural events ($631 new plan that will guide the versus $457). Division through 2020. One of the ways they are collecting feedback is through “listening sessions.” For more information on how to participate in one, or host one, contact Gaylen Phillips at gaylen.phillips@dos.myflorida.com. Several support art organizations dot Northwest Florida, and while they all claim missions that support the arts, no one organization appears

Photo Courtesy of Immaculate Baking Company (billboard)

Tourism

giving back

Pyramid is in the Business of Building Independence, Confidence Celebrating 20 years this year, Pyramid Inc. (pyramidinc.org) is a 501C(3) corporation committed to serving individuals with severe disabilities. Pyramid operates six centers in five cities across Florida — Pensacola, Fort Walton Beach, Panama City, Tallahassee (two locations) and Tampa. It is perhaps best known for its unique arts program, which offers a full range of visual and performing arts, catering to each student’s level of ability and interest. The Pyramid Players perform across Florida and in Georgia and Alabama. Pyramid’s artists exhibit from St. Petersburg, Tampa and Orlando to the Panhandle. Their work is on display from South Florida to Chicago and beyond. The program currently serves nearly 700 adults. In addition to the arts, Pyramid offers therapeutic repositioning, physical/ nutritional and behavioral assistance, peer counseling, sensory integration, social and life-management skills training and a variety of educational classes designed to increase their independence. To book a performance by the Pyramid Players, call the Tallahassee office at (850) 671-1690. For information on the nearest Emerald Coast location in Fort Walton Beach, call (850) 862-7139.

to represent the entire region. Perhaps artists along the Emerald Coast would ultimately be best served if the string of art organizations found a way to band together to create a collective “voice” which together may be stronger, louder. Until then, we hope art entrepreneurs like Andy Saczynski will keep cooking up eye-catching entrepreneurial business ideas. And maybe they will whet the appetites of “fat” funders hungry for tasty, new ideas. After all, wasn’t it the “haves” who said, “Let them eat cake!” ec EmeraldCoastMagazine.com October–November 2014

personality Todd Eric Allen, artistic director and CEO of Northwest Florida Ballet (NFB), says the NFB training he received at age 14 turned his life around.

Using the Power of Art, Todd Allen Changes Lives By Martha J. LaGuardia-Kotite

84 October–November 2014

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Mari Darr~Welch

odd Eric Allen walked across Studio 1 to teach a technique class a few days after returning from Boston where he celebrated the Boston Ballet’s 50th Anniversary. Carrying a cup of coffee, wearing heeled dance shoes, a grey cardigan and loose cargo pants, he glided across the wooden floor. His perfect posture seemed natural, effortless. He was unshaven, yet neat. His quiet presence commanded the attention of two-dozen ballerinas ages 10 to 16 years old. Without being asked, they moved next to the ballet bars lining the sides and back walls and faced the mirrored front. After a few warm up movements and a downward dog stretch, his body forming an inverted V-shape with hands on the floor, Allen, 47, rose. He faced the mirrors. Everyone watched as he demonstrated the first series of steps. “Okay? Everybody got it,” he asked rhetorically. Moving toward the stereo, he studied the ballerinas in the mirror. “Here we go. Standing tall. Be ready,” he said, pressing “on” with his finger. Classical music flowed across the studio. “Stomachs, stomachs, stomachs,” he said. For an hour, he demonstrated. They executed. He paced the studio to reposition a foot or a leg or offer instruction. “Spread your toes out in your shoes so you have a little more control … present your heel before you step.” Allen uses the power of art to change lives. The CEO of Northwest Florida Ballet Academie in Fort Walton Beach, blended the discipline of and his joy for dance to inspire children over the past 19 years. Without a business background or degree, he transformed an afterschool ballet program into a full-day ballet school. He created a public-private partnership with the school district, which serves as a role model for other communities and created a pre-professional track for high school students. Allen knew first-hand of ballet’s therapeutic and inspirational affects, especially for at-risk children. “I believe in the power of art. I was an at-risk kid too.” His mother raised three children. They were very poor. A twist of fate brought Allen to dance. He suffered an injury playing football in middle school. During his rehabilitation, he was encouraged to go to ballet classes with his sister. On scholarship, he continued. Then it struck him. He knew this was want he wanted to do. “This is my chance,” he said. “Dance was my ticket out.” Allen’s distinguished career included dancing professionally with the Louisville Ballet and the Boston Ballet for five years. A year later, in 1995, while with Le Gran Ballet Canadian, he accepted an invitation to return to his hometown and take over the afterschool ballet program operated since 1969 by his former teacher, Bernadette Clements Sims. With his expectant wife, Shari, also a professional dancer, they moved down from Canada. “We came here to take the company to a different level,” said Allen. Returning to the aging, beachside town was an adjustment. “I felt like I was in the trenches,” he said when joking with friends. He was intrigued with outreach, having participated in programs while dancing for the Boston Ballet.

To grow the school, the Allens renovated an old Japanese hotel, The Nico Inn, a place where patrons sat on the floor while eating. Despite a cracked foundation, they repaired it and preserved the spacious entryway and expansive staircase to the second floor. Walls were broken down. In 2002, studios and classrooms were built up. “I’m a dancer,” Allen said, laughing. “I had to soon realize that I had to become a fundraiser. I had to learn many things.” Allen wrote grants, taught classes, gave speeches and drew support for their four-year capital campaign. “Once we got this off the ground, things started happening around us. Businesses started popping up. This was a depressed area.” Publix moved in across the street in a new shopping center. Restaurants opened along the adjacent main street. As they finished up the expansion, State Sen. Don Gaetz, then the Okaloosa County Superintendent of Schools, approached Allen. “He asked, ‘What would you do if you could do anything?’ ” Allen recalled. “I spent a few days in Louisville with my mentors and came back with an Americanized version of what you’d see in Europe at the Royal Ballet. It took off from there.” The Academie, a public-contract school, functions with the school district paying a portion of the expenses and salaries. “I write grants, go out and put the hat out to raise the balance,” Allen said. Initially offering one third-grade class and one academic teacher, who was also the principal, the school provided art, music, French and ballet every day. Over the years, fourth through eighth grades and nine academic teachers were added. The staff grew to support 145 students. The

The Business of the Arts

by the Numbers State Florida is home to 29,735 creative industry establishment. Though it is only about 5.9% of the total industry in the state, it generates upwards of $49.7 billion in annual revenue. The last major economic impact study (conducted in 2008) reports that the arts and culture industry generates:

» 88,236 full-time equivalent jobs » $2.057 billion in resident household income

» $196 million in local government revenue

» $249 million in state government revenue

National Nonprofit arts and culture organizations across the nation generate:

» $135.2 billion in economic activity

» 4.13 million full-time jobs » $22.3 billion in revenue to local, state and federal governments each year

Source: Florida Division of Cultural Affairs

pre-professional program for high school students is two years old. This summer a new studio will be built for the pre-professional classes. His partnership with the school district and impact on the community’s development garnered attention from Embry Riddle University’s Pensacola Campus. The aviation and aerospace university wants to model the handson, public-private partnership approach Allen cultivated to prepare high school students for technology careers. On the ground floor of the Academie, below the dance studios and just past three-deep racks of costumes and scenery for “The Little Mermaid” and “The Nutcracker,” Dorothy Lister, the woman who gave Allen his dance ticket out of Florida sewed and adjusted leotards for the evening’s performance. She engaged in small talk with teenage dancers who slyly ate gummy worms outside her door. Lister, a former professional dancer and teacher for New York City’s Joffrey Ballet School, was a scout instructing a summer workshop at Pensacola Junior College when Allen,

then a 16-year-old, caught her eye. “Todd had this wonderful ballon — a big jump. He had the natural ability to jump off the floor and maintain a height and then come back down. It’s like you see a little pause in the air. You don’t find that too often.” His enthusiasm and love for what he was doing “exuded throughout his body,” she said. Allen accepted her invitation to dance with the school. Thirty years later, the teacher and student were reunited. Lister works for Allen as Ballet Mistress, helping train ballet dancers. “I love working for Todd and Shari. He handles dancing in a professional manner. It’s important that the students get the right technique in training and have a certain discipline.” Allen has a dry sense of humor, but she says he is wonderful with the kids. “With Todd there’s always this kind of twinkle in his eye. He’s light-hearted. On the other hand, he’s very strict.” He expects the students take the training seriously and do it correctly, to the best of their ability with energy and enthusiasm. EmeraldCoastMagazine.com October–November 2014

Support the Arts

How can you be an art advocate? Become knowledgeable about these local, state and national organizations and lend your support. Local Art, Culture and Entertainment Inc. (ACE), acepensacola.org Arts and Design Society (ADSO), artsdesignsociety.org Bay Arts Alliance, bayarts.org Cultural Arts Association, culturalartsalliance.com Escape to Create, escapetocreate.org Impact 100, impactnwf.org Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation, mattiekellyartsfoundation.org

Mari Darr~Welch

Okaloosa Arts Alliance, okaloosaarts.org

“There is an audition to get into the school. It’s a free school. Thirty percent of the students are identified at risk — I don’t like that term,” Allen said. “They’re below the poverty line. We wear uniforms. There’s no-haves and have-nots. Everybody comes to school to dance and do their job. It’s really helped to lift kids and their families up.” Shari Allen, 47, said that the discipline and no-excuse attitude taught at the Academie is a formula for living life well. “We can produce a child that can be successful in life even if they are not going to be a professional dancer,” she said. “Todd wants to create dancers, yes, but he knows we’re going to create wonderful people to send out into the world.” She said her husband’s success as a CEO, without a business degree, is partly because he’s not afraid to take chances. On the other hand, “He’s also particular about making sure we have a supportive board of directors that can all work together. We protect what we have,” she said. “We want to keep the quality without selling out or settling for less.” While the economic climate presents challenges for a 86 October–November 2014

specialty school, she said her husband’s passion and ability to build relationships draws support and funding. The doors to Studio 1 opened. Converted to a black box for the evening performance, guests who had waited in line entered quickly to select their seat. A board member, Nia Kellogg, remarked, “There’s going to be a man on pointe. I’m all over that.” Allen entered wearing a steel blue blazer and slacks. He moved to center stage to introduce the final and sold out performance of “The New Works Project,” a collection of contemporary ballet performances directed by three female chorographers, one of which was his wife. After a brief history of the Academie, Allen paused. Putting on his glasses, he read names of the show’s volunteers. “None of this happens without them,” he said, asking for a round of applause. Worthy of a standing ovation, Allen is humble, grateful and fulfilled. “I got the payback of working with these kids,” he said. “That’s the payoff. What you get out of this because they are so thankful … is just so awesome.” ec

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Okaloosa Public Arts (OPA), okaloosapublicarts.com State Citizens for Florida Arts Inc., (850) 245-6356 Florida Cultural Alliance, flca.net Florida Division of Cultural Affairs, florida-arts.org National Americans for the Arts, americansforthearts.org National Endowment for the Arts, arts.gov

As a professionally trained dancer, Todd Eric Allen brings a unique perspective to his leadership roles with the Northwest Florida Ballet and its Academie.

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Something Fishy Going on at Jackacuda’s … In a Good Way

While other seafood restaurants may have you questioning if you just bit into seared tuna or canned tuna, Jackacuda’s proves to its patrons that the fish it serves is as fresh as can be with a real “soFISHticated” process. Since it opened in HarborWalk Village, Jackacuda’s Seafood and Sushi has taken any questions about its seafood “off the table” so to speak by showing diners exactly how to track their seafood dish. When Chef Tyler McMahan handpicks the fish he plans to serve at the Destin Harbor restaurant from local commercial fishermen, he receives a QR code. When the QR code is scanned, the chef can tell what type of fish it is, where the fish was caught, who caught the fish, who the local captain of the boat was and who processed the fish. “We’re trying to basically raise the bar and give them (diners) a product that is worth them coming back to see us,” said Jackacuda’s owner Chris Ruyan. Perhaps Jackacuda’s will lure some of the many other fine seafood restaurants on the EC to do the same. Now that’s something we can get excited about hook, line and sinker. — Janie Harris

Photo by Matt Burke

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in motion

Try ballet-inspired workouts for a lean look and strong core

f the words “ballet barre” remind you of ill-fitting leotards and boring music, the new take on barre may surprise you. Ashley Singleton, 27, a lifelong fitness devotee, has been doing Pure Barre since she first tried it seven years ago while in college. She fell in love with the LTB (lift, tone, burn) mantra and opened her first Pure Barre studio four years ago in Santa Rosa Beach. In August she opened a second location in Destin’s Paradise Isle shopping plaza (next to Olive). Singleton offers the same 55-minute Pure Barre class throughout the day, so if you cannot come in the morning you can jump in an afternoon session and get the same work out. Several other studios, such as Destin Pilates and SoWal Pilates, offer barre-based fitness classes as well. And if you are not a “class person,” you can order various barre-based instructional fitness DVDs online. It’s universally agreed that dancers have beautiful bodies — long, lean, athletic and feminine. So it goes to reason that an effective way to achieve a dancer’s body is by doing a ballet barrebased workout. Pure Barre is just that. The technique utilizes the 90 October–November 2014

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By Lauren Gillespie and Zandra Wolfgram

ballet barre to perform small isometric movements working each muscle to fatigue and then stretching that muscle right back out. There is no impact so the workout is safe, and fitness trend followers like Lorraine Christen — a local dance and Pilates instructor in Destin — say it is effective … and addictive. “You’re going to feel it immediately. You’re working things you haven’t worked in a traditional workout,” she says. “At the same time, it’s a challenge. Many say it’s the hardest workout they’ve ever done, so it’s not your mama’s Pilates,” she jokes. Luckily, you do not have to be a dancer to begin. “Your feet are in the first position and you use a ballet barre, but that’s it,” Christen explains. And if you are not as fit as the prima ballerina next to you, you need not worry. Christen assures there are modifications for every fitness level. “You need to listen to your own body. Set your own personal goals rather than compare yourself to someone else. Your only focus should be on good form. If you tire, you can do what we call ‘reset’ and take a breath and then get back into form,” she says.

Photo By Jacqueline Ward

Raising the Barre

There are several variations of barre to try, such as Xtend Barre, Booty Barre and This Pure Barre move utilizes a BarreAmped to name a few. Some are highballet bare and er energy with more cardio, and others incorengages the legs, porate more battement — a ballet movement booty, core and arms. Once in involving a big kick with one leg. Still, every position, you tuck barre class contains the same core elements: the hips under and perform small small movements that challenge you to use pulses to further different muscles you don’t normally use. isolate and fire up The deep knee bending plies, for exthe muscles. Pure Barre Studio owner ample, work your entire leg from your toes Ashley Singleton to the tip of your hips. Balancing with the says, “If you are barre also improves your stabilizing muscles shaking, you are doing it right!” and strengthens your core. Some of the exercises are done at the ballet barre, and others are done either standing or on the mat. The entire workout is designed to keep your heart rate up so you burn plenty of calories. Any new fitness trend can be intimidating; especially one based on classical dance, but Christen assures it’s for you if “you’re tired of your old routine and want something new.” She first tried it as a mom of two looking to tone and tighten. “I wanted to lift everything up, and this is perfect for that,” she says. Like every fitness class, the first step is simply showing up. To make the most of class, you should come well hydrated, bring “sticky” socks to avoid slipping and wear comfortable clothes. Christen advises just two more things to make the most of unleashing your inner ballerina: “Come with an open mind, and be prepared to sweat!” ec

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Emotional Connections Famed furniture designer Barbara Barry says that if a sofa is right it’ll become “a member of the family.” “A sofa can be tremendously sexy if it sends the body a message to come sit in it,” she explains. “And there’s nothing nicer than falling asleep on a sofa. It takes us back to our childhood where parents were home and you got to take naps feeling very protected.” Her preference goes to a “neutral” sofa with a very architectural exterior, but a soft, inviting interior. “It should be deep

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Analysis Required “It’s a lifestyle issue, but also an emotional thing,” notes Robin Wright, an interior designer with Sugar Beach Interiors, Miramar Beach. “Most of us lead hectic lives and want to come home to a sofa that we can sink into and leave the slings and arrows of the day behind. The problem is that so many decisions go into finding the sofa that’ll do that. In fact, many in furniture sales observe that we spend more time choosing a sofa than a car. There are that many options. “Some solid analysis is called for. If you have back problems, you’ll want a sofa that’s firm, and if you’re older you’ll want one with some spring so you can get out of it easily. Are you longwaisted or short-waisted? Long-legged or short-legged? Is your TV screen placed high on the wall so you need to lean back and look up to watch it, or is it on a low stand so you just need to look straight ahead? Do you like to take naps on the sofa?” “Really, the only way to determine the answers to such questions is to sit on a variety of sofas,” she continues, “and probably lie down on them too. So that’s precisely what we do at our showroom. Once we’ve determined what makes a client most comfortable, we can change out fillings, cushions and upholstery. For example a three-cushion sofa will be firmer than a two-cushion one. If entertaining is part of your lifestyle, a three-cushion sofa is also better because only two people tend to sit down on a two-cushion version. Or you might go for one long cushion. For entertaining purposes, also consider arms that are flat and large enough to perch on, so a stray guest can join in the conversation if the sofa is full.”

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he sofa — also known by such names as the davenport, divan or couch — is the physical and emotional centerpiece of the most important room in your house. Freud built psychoanalysis around it, it’s a prop in many a TV sitcom and it has spawned a slew of social phenomena, including the “couch potato.” Considering how indispensable we consider it today, it’s hard to believe that it’s a fairly recent addition to the home. It didn’t make it into the parlor of the average home until the late 1800s. It was a stiff, uninviting piece of furniture, and it stayed pretty much that way until the late 1900s. “The sofa was a perch where people sat and drank tea, conversing politely with Aunt Mildred,” says Michelle Rosson, marketing director of Thomasville. “Kids hated it, so now that they have homes of their own, they come into furniture showrooms and tell us that they definitely don’t want their ‘mother’s sofa.’ ”

Low profile armless sections of sofas (top) invites guests to be seated on either side and allows for unobstructed views; When a room has a lot of texture, a neutral sofa (right) is a good choice, because it is easily updated by changing the color of pillows and throws.

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enough for a nap or even to make into a comfortable bed, just by removing the cushions,” she says. “Yet, such a sofa, with a clean rectangular frame, never looks messy and it goes well with antiques.”

Whether traditional, transitional or contemporary there is a sofa shape, color and texture that is optimal for every room design. Designers say “Don’t be shy” and invite homeowners to have a seat on samples in the showroom to be sure they are really comfortable with their purchase, literally.

Decisions, Decisions It used to be easier to select a sofa, says Todd Reeves of Modern Interiors, Miramar Beach. People went looking for a Chippendale, a Queen Anne, a Tuxedo or whatever. No more. Now the lines are so blurred that you can only refer to a style as traditional, transitional or contemporary. “And within those categories there are hundreds of styles,” he explains. “For example, in our showroom you”ll see sofas that are linear or curvy, low or high-backed, long or short, deep or shallow, skirted or not, and with metal or wood legs that may be straight or decorative. In addition arms may be narrow or wide, curved or straight, and there are different kinds of wood frames, springs and innards ranging from foam to down. Now add hundreds of upholstery choices, which include color and pattern options, and it’s easy to understand why buying a sofa is a traumatic experience for so many people.” To combat such angst, Modern Interiors will make home visits, but even so Reeves recommends a showroom visit so customers can try out 10–11 sofas to determine, which one is most comfortable for them.

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Florida Preferences Maneuvering shoppers through Sectional sofas provide a lot of the selection process, designers seating, can easily and store personnel have a very “surround” a TV or fireplace and good idea what sofas Emerald are best suited for Coast homeowners are buying. those that do not Clean-lined, transitional styles like to rearrange furniture often. that complement designs of many eras and origins are best sellers, they say, and leather upholstery still sells well but is losing some ground. “Suntan oil and leather don’t mix well,” warns Robin Wright. Another regional concern is voiced by Lucy Haas of Furniture Outlet, Fort Walton Beach. She warns against particleboard frames. “A while ago we had to contend with flood water in our area,” she says, “and particleboard won’t last through that. Go with wood.” Haas and Reeves say that sectionals are still quite popular, but emphasize that such sofas do have a “dead zone.” “It’s the corner section,” notes Reeves. “It’s great for watching movies, but a disaster for a party.” “But just right for a big family,” says Haas and laughs. “I had a mom here with 10 kids, and a big sectional was obviously right for that family.” For families with children and pets, Haas recommends one or two washable slipcovers, and Wright mentions that many of her clients like slipcovers for different seasonal looks. Neutral colors such as gray and white, are best sellers in the Emerald Coast area, and linen, cotton and cotton blends are the preferred upholstery materials. Bamboo, however, is gaining ground, according to Wright. “It’s very soft and washable,” says Wright, “and its vibe is casual, very coastal.” But whatever the style or color preferences, consumers all want the same thing from a sofa, agree Wright, Reeves and Haas. They want it to provide a welcoming hug when they plop down and a comfy respite from work, traffic and worries. ec

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in the neighborhood

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DEAL Estate

Hammock Bay

A Community that Hangs its Vision on a Place that’s Easygoing By Zandra Wolfgram

ammock Bay was named for the ultimate lifestyle — peaceful and easy. The master-planned residential community developed by Jay Odom is nestled in Freeport between Highway 20 and County Road 331 on 3,000 acres of preserved woodlands with a portion overlooking the northeast shores of Choctawhatchee Bay. When completely built out the resort-style community could have as many as 1,000 homes. Currently, the population is just over 1,400. The 13 thoughtfully designed and themed neighborhood communities each has a distinctive feel and peaceful-sounding names such as Rhapsody — an intimate Southern coastal community of just nine homes — versus Symphony, a community of 203 homes networked by walking paths and boardwalks conveniently situated near both the Town Center and the Freeport Sports Complex. Hammock Bay appeals to a range of buyers from retirees to firsttime homebuyers. It offers the convenience of new construction 100 October–November 2014

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at an affordable price point and is laden with family-friendly amenities. Here are some of the highlights: At the heart of the Town Center is The Lake Club. Situated near Anchor Lake, the Lake Club is the central gathering place for Hammock Bay residents. It features a 6,000-square-foot clubhouse that offers residents a social function area (including a caterer’s kitchen!), bar, library, kid’s room and a spacious deck featuring a fire pit and scenic views of Anchor Lake. Next to the clubhouse is the 4,000-square-foot Fitness Center with men’s and women’s locker rooms and state-of-theart fitness equipment, including cardio stations equipped with flat screen TVs. The center hosts a competition-level outdoor lap pool as well as a resort-style adult pool, a zero-entry children’s pool, tennis courts, basketball courts and a putting green. On the grounds is a kid’s playground featuring a Spider’s Web — supposedly the largest in the U.S. Hammock Bay is about connecting to both community and nature (nearly one-third of the community is preserved green space and nature preserve). An outdoor amphitheater holds yearround special events and activities for owners. The 12-acre Bay Club offers up 480 feet of bayfront coastline. The craftsman-style pavilion is popular for parties and weddings. A sunset boardwalk wraps through woodlands and reaches to a dock that extends out into the bay, providing a launch pad for watersports and the perfect perch for fishing. Perhaps one of the most unique amenities is the Canine

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DEAL Estate

in the neighborhood

Go to emeraldcoastmagazine.com for REAL ESTATE listings

Hammock Bay

All statistics listed below pertain to sales in June 2014 and are provided by the Emerald Coast Association of Realtors, Florida Realtor and the National Association of Realtors. Compiled by Lynda Belcher

Freeport Regional Sports Complex

Commons — a green space designed exclusively for Hammock Bay’s four-legged residents. The previously mentioned Freeport Regional Sports Complex at Hammock Bay gives owners ready access to the 60-acre regional sports center that includes multiple ball fields, tennis courts, sand volleyball, shuffleboard and walking/jogging trails. For all the latest news, owners look to The Hammock Bay Herald, the neighborhood newspaper reporting the goings-on in the community. Though many of the neighborhoods are sold out, Hammock Bay Realty has a few vacant lots listed from $25,000; $40,000 for waterfront lot; and listings that range from mid-$200s. A high-end 3,807-square-foot home featuring five bedrooms and three-and-a-half baths listed for $339,900. ec

LOCAL The Emerald Coast closed 532 single family home sales in June 2014 — 134 of which were paid in cash. 424 were traditional sales, 89 were foreclosures and 19 were short sales. The median sale price for townhouses and condos was $265,000 — a 17.8% increase since June 2013. STATE Florida closed 23,181 single family home sales — 9,114 of which were paid in cash. 17,105 were traditional sales, 4,703 were foreclosures and 1,373 were short sales.

Townhouse and condo inventory (active listings) in Florida increased by 13.4% between June 2013 and 2014. National Existing home sales increased in June and reached an annual pace of five million sales for the first time since October 2013. The total sales for existing home sales reached 5.04 million in June, up from 4.91 million in May. This represents a 2.3% decrease from the 5.16 million-unit pace in June 2013. The national median existinghome price for all housing types was $223,300 in June, up 4.3% from June 2013.

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just sold

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Indian Bayou Estates Purchase Signifies Homecoming for New City Manager

By Lynda Belcher

he entire town of Destin benefitted from a recent home Quick Look sale, as it signified a homeList Price: $387,950 coming of former city manSale Price: $367,000 ager Greg Kisela who has returned Square Feet: 2,223 to once again manage this bustling Bedrooms: 3 beachside paradise. The home, situBathrooms: 2.5 ated on almost half an acre, is located Contact: Melanie Johnson/Kerry Veach, at 13 Ocala Court, in the Indian BayBroker, RE/MAX Southern ou community. The 2,223 square foot Realty, 850-837-1880 home was listed for $387,950 and sold for $367,000. The three-bedroom, 2.5-bathroom structure is situated in the heart of a golf community on a large cul-de-sac with plenty of privacy fencing and offers a built-in sprinkler system. The interior of the home is inviting from the moment of entry

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into the spacious foyer. It leads to an open, split-floor plan that makes the common areas perfect for entertaining. The living room boasts vaulted ceilings and a woodburning fireplace, and the adjoining kitchen is equipped with stainless steel appliances and large cabinets with a built-in desk and easy-to-clean tile flooring. The breakfast nook is cozy while the formal dining room offers yet another space for entertaining. The master suite may well be the showstopper in this space, with its double vanity sinks, Jacuzzi tub, walk-in shower and closet with built-in shelving. The home also offers a Florida room, central stereo system and heat recovery system. ec

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Legendary Inc.

DEAL Estate

just listed

Villages of Crystal Beach, Destin

Colorful Seaside Gem Available in Desirable Villages of Crystal Beach Community By Lynda Belcher

Real Estate Sales & Marketing Voted “Finest” Agent on the Emerald Coast 2014 Innovative Marketing Strategies Effective Negotiation Skills Luxury & Waterfront Specialist

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rospective homeowners looking for a house that stands out from the rest will be delighted with this vibrant dwelling in the Villages of Crystal Beach. Perfect as a personal residence or an investment property, the 2,040-square-oot home offers a wide array of amenities that make it Quick Look an appealing find. List Price:$455,000 The four-bedroom, 3.5-bathroom, Square Feet: 2,040 two-story home is being sold fully Bedrooms: 4 furnished, minus a few of the perBathrooms: 3.5 sonal touches. The kitchen is quaint Contact: Lindsey and cozy, with a breakfast nook and Lynch, Realtor/Project bar-style seating. The bedrooms are Manager, Legendary Inc., 850-974-7070 spacious with ceiling fans and carpeting, with each painted in soothing beach hues. A second-story balcony offers optimal opportunities to take in the fresh salty air that abounds from the nearby Gulf waters. Additional features include high efficiency A/C, double pane windows throughout and high heat efficiency. The Villages of Crystal Beach is a gated community, and located in the “X” zone, which means lower insurance premiums for homeowners. It is less than two blocks from shopping, golf and restaurants, and during the high season there is shuttle service to the beach for owners and guests. It attracts potential buyers with access to its sizeable swimming pool complete with waterfall features, outdoor grilling area and beach access. ec

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ms. grow-it-all

Curse of the

Armadillo While These Armored Critters Can Dig Up Your Yard, They’re Beneficial, Too By Audrey Post Something is creating divots in our yard, and it’s making a terrible mess. The holes near the sidewalk have caused the pavement to crack. What might it be, and do you have any suggestions for alleviating the problem? A: From your description, I’m pretty sure you have armadillos visiting your yard. They tend to be nocturnal creatures, so unless you’re up really late, you probably won’t see them tearing up your yard. They nest in deep burrows during the day, with openings about 7 or 8 inches wide that can extend 15 feet underground. They prefer dense shady cover, such as thick brush or undergrowth in forests. The flexible coat of armor that covers their entire bodies, except for their ears and bellies, allows them to withstand attacks from many predators, as does their tendency to jump straight up when threatened. Unfortunately, this last characteristic causes their encounters with cars usually to end badly. Armadillos feed primarily on insects and their larvae, but they also eat earthworms, scorpions, spiders, snails, cockroaches, wasps and grasshoppers. According to a report from the University of Florida’s Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences, armadillos will dig up entire yellow-jacket nests.

So these prehistoric-looking creatures do perform a beneficial function. The problem arises in how they do their job. While nosing around for insects in the soil, they uproot flowers and small shrubs; burrow under patios and driveways, sometimes causing structural damage; and they can leave holes for unsuspecting people and pets to step into, causing foot and ankle injuries. This time of year, the summer rains tend to slack off and the relatively dry fall weather appears, sending armadillos out to forage in previously undisturbed areas. There are several things you can do to discourage armadillos from visiting your yard. First, reduce the amount of water and fertilizer you’re applying to your lawn. A moist, lush lawn is a tasty earthworm and insect buffet. If you keep your lawn on the dry side — another reason to water early in the day, so the grass and soil have time to dry before nightfall — it won’t be as appealing to the armadillos. Another option is to create barriers, such as fences, to keep the armadillos away from lawn areas or plantings you particularly want to protect. UF recommends using fencing material that stands at least 24 inches above the ground and extends 18 inches below the surface of the soil, with the fencing material positioned at a 40-degree

outward angle. Chicken wire would probably work fine, depending on where in your yard you’re erecting an armadillo barricade, but it seems to me to be swapping one eyesore for another. You don’t want the holes in your yard, because they’re unsightly, so why would you want a chicken-wire fence? There are other options, such as trapping them. Call your local animal control office to find out what the laws are concerning trapping nuisance animals. Some people fill in the entrance to their burrows with a mixture of mud and mothballs, but concern for the chemicals in mothballs leaching into the soil makes this less than ideal. Shooting them is illegal inside the boundaries of most cities. The easiest thing to do is to give the armadillos their own dining area. If you have an area that’s not as visible or prominent in your landscape, water it just before dark so it’s soft and moist. It will attract the bugs and worms, which will attract the armadillos and steer them away from the area you want to protect. If it’s an area you’re considering using for a winter garden, even better. Let the little buggers tear it up for you. Although armadillos are not native to Florida, they’re here now and considering the bad bugs they eat, I don’t mind compromising with them a little. ec

© 2014 Postscript Publishing, all rights reserved. Audrey Post is a certified Advanced Master Gardener volunteer with the University of Florida IFAS Extension in Leon County. Email her at Questions@MsGrowItAll.com, or visit her website at msgrowitall.com. Ms. Grow-It-All® is a registered trademark of Postscript Publishing. EmeraldCoastMagazine.com October–November 2014

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f.y.i.

A Little Help from Your Friends

Kickstarter Matches Idea People with Micro-Capitalists By Chay D. Baxley

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Robert Gilliard

aving an awesome idea and no cash to fund it is not a great place to be. Back in 2009, something truly revolutionary happened for all the idea men and women out there; something that would place creativity and passion above conventional business models. Something called Kickstarter. Kickstarter.com is an online funding platform for creative projects. In laymen’s terms, it allows people with ambitions bigger than their wallets to spread the word of their business venture to the masses and lets the public decide if the concept is worth funding. Funders can offer up anything from $1 and beyond — some have even given thousands — to help meet the project’s goal. But wait, there’s a catch. Before any money can be received the askers must set a financial goal, which must be met in its entirety within a certain period of time. Funding is all or nothing. So, if an aspiring boy band lays out a goal of $5,000 to cover the cost of their debut album but only receives $1,000 by the time their deadline rolls around, all bets are off. The dough stays with its prospective funders and said boy band will simply have to save up to sing another day.

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com

The Chris Martin Band, Pensacola The Chris Martin Band may be new to the music scene, but their sound has plenty of old-school soul. A country music ensemble hailing from Pensacola, this group’s tunes rival anything playing on today’s radio. For the past year, festivals and county fairs have been the Chris Martin Band’s stomping ground. With a growing fan base and loads of local support, the band members were eager to take their act to the next level. Releasing their debut single would be a necessary step towards a prosperous career, but first there was the issue of financials. “It wouldn’t have been impossible,” admitted Mark White, the group’s bass guitarist and background vocalist. “But it sure would have been financially trying to make it happen.” Unlike many of their fellow Kickstarters, their cause had no problem getting funded. Twentyfour backers quickly gave the band $2,055 to put towards their production costs. In exchange for the dough, investors received a variety of band-related paraphernalia, ranging from posters to an early edition of their extended play single. With a little extra cash in their pocket, the guys were able to shimmy on up to Nashville where they spent a week in the studio with a producer recording their fivesong EP. “It worked out well for us,” said White. “It was a successful project; we hit our goal.” And as for their adventure in Music City? It was everything the band hoped for and more. “It’s been awesome,” beamed White. “We hooked up with a great producer. He had us in the studio all week long, and it’s been an absolutely incredible experience”

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Services may not be available everywhere. CenturyLink may change, cancel, or substitute offers and services, or vary them by service area, at its sole discretion without notice. Requires credit approval and deposit may be required. Additional restrictions apply. Terms and Conditions â&#x20AC;&#x201C; All products and services listed are governed by tariffs, terms of service, or terms and conditions posted at www.centurylink.com. High-Speed Internet (HSI) â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Private, direct connection and speed claims are based on CenturyLink providing High-Speed Internet subscribers with a dedicated, virtual-circuit connection to the CenturyLink central ofďŹ ce. The name CenturyLink and the pathways logo are trademarks of CenturyLink. All other marks are property of their respective owners. ÂŠ 2014 CenturyLink. All Rights Reserved.

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f.y.i.

East Hill Honey Co.,

Photos Courtesy Mark Pasternack/Jump Goat Media

Pensacola

Don’t worry. The project founders aren’t the only ones taking something away from this surprisingly symbiotic relationship. In exchange for their financial support, backers are presented with levels of rewards to both entice and acknowledge their contribution. Potential rewards include a signed original print from an artist’s personal collection, a film credit, a handmade thank you card or a set of tickets to a band’s opening show. The more you give, the more you get. Now, what can be funded on Kickstarter? Almost anything. Anything, so long as it has a certain je ne sais quoi and lands in the creative groove the folks at Kickstarter have etched out for themselves. Areas of interest for the site include art, comics, dance, design, fashion, film, food, games, music, photography, publishing, technology and theater. Though not the world’s first online funding platform, Kickstarter has certainly been the most successful and enduring site of its kind — nabbing headlines from CNN to Time magazine. Since its inception on April 28, 2009,

Thomas and Emily Van Horn are a professional beekeeping duo, healthful entrepreneurs and major activists in the food artisan movement. Fresh, natural and delicious, their cause is sweeping Northwest Florida — one organic startup at a time. Not so long ago though, their business venture was nothing more than a sweet weekend hobby for a charming young couple in Pensacola’s East Hill community. Thanks to their successful Kickstarter campaign and widespread community support, East Hill Honey Co. quickly turned into something much, much more. “It was definitely a new experience for me. I’ve never done anything like that before,” shared Thomas of his time on Kickstarter. The Van Horns spent a great deal of time and effort creating an impressive video, establishing their brand and reaching out to members of the community before they launched the campaign. After just 30 days, on Aug 6, 2012, 309 backers contributed $22,701 to help bring the couple’s dreams to fruition. More valuable than their financial support, Thomas said, was the exposure it gave his young company. “I could have easily taken out a loan,” explained Thomas. “In the grand scheme of things, it’s not that much money. But the thing that is invaluable is the marketing. It forces you to sit down and make a video about your mission and who you are.” The funds from their Kickstarter campaign went to constructing a “honey house,” a certified building where they can bottle and extract honey in order to sell it to a third-party distributor. Today, their products can be found in nearly 30 grocery stores throughout the region.

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f.y.i.

Runaway Imagination, Fort Walton Beach As an elementary school teacher, Lori Dierig is familiar with creative kids who have wacky imaginations. When she decided to Lori Dierig, Writer pen a story about one little (fictional) boy in particular, she knew she’d need some help making her tale come to life. After imploring the artistic abilities of Charlie Padgett, the illustrator Charlie Padgett, behind The 3feet Factory, illustrator Dierig was determined to publish her children’s book (entitled “Runaway Imagination”) one way or the other. Following a series of setbacks in the publishing world, Dierig and Padgett found their way on to Kickstarter. After $3,449 worth of backing and 200 colorful copies, their masterpiece was complete. “I had no idea what Kickstarter was, to be honest,” admitted Dierig. “It was my illustrator who suggested we try it out.” “It was easier than I thought it would be,” she continued. “I know there are some projects that don’t raise the money, but our project wasn’t a hugely expensive project anyways. We only had to raise about $2,600. Everything turned out great. For us, it was a cut-and-dry, simple thing that really worked well.” “Runaway Imagination” is available online at Amazon.com.

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www.ins-zone.com 495 Grand Boulevard, Suite 220 Miramar Beach, FL 850-424-6979 New location on 30-A opening soon! more than five million people, funding more than 58,000 creative projects, have pledged more than a billion dollars. In return for its role as the middleman, Kickstarter receives 5 percent of every successful project. For those of you doing the math, that’s approximately $50 million. Even people around the Emerald Coast are reaping the rewards of this “power-to-the-people” inspired website. ec

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going places

Getting there: Fly into Venice, Italy, and drive to Rovinj, Croatia (2.5 hours) / closest commercial international airports: Pula (20 miles), Trieste-Ronchi (70 miles), Rijeka-Krk (80 miles) and Venice’s Marco Polo Airport (160 miles) / Car rental is available at each of the airports. Once in Rovinj, it’s easy to walk or rent a bike or boat.

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Rovinj, Croatia

The old coastal town of earthy enchantments By Zandra Wolfgram

headed to Rovinj, Croatia, just after the peak tourist season (May–September), during the first week of October. Everyone I spoke to who had traveled there inevitably used some of the same words to describe it: “beautiful,” “romantic” and “artsy.” Everyone couldn’t wait to return. I took three planes (Pensacola to Charlotte to New York and then on to Venice) and then a two-hour car ride to reach this mystical seaside sanctuary from the Middle Ages. I was on the hunt for adventure; I discovered plenty of that … and much more. Istria is the largest Croatian peninsula situated in Southeast Europe. It is to the east of Italy on the Adriatic Sea. Somewhat like counting stars, no one is quite sure how

many islands dot the Croatian coast, but to say there are upwards of a thousand is not an exaggeration. The storied history here dates back to the 6th century. Several civilizations, rulers and regimes crisscrossed Croatia, leaving behind a rich legacy along with amazing mosaics and fascinating frescoes throughout stunning Venetian palaces, fortified Austrian forts and charming old churches. Locals celebrate Statehood Day (June 25, 1991), the day it declared independence from Yugoslavia. And just last year Croatia joined the European Union, so Kuna, not Euro is king for now. The red-tiled roofs of Rovinj, located on the western coast of the Istra peninsula, are clustered into an oasis next to the deep blue Adriatic Sea that is teeming with sea life and topped with gondolas, sailboats and fishing charters. The

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feeling in the town of 15,000 is easy and free. All roads lead to the Church of St. Euphemia’s basilica, a Baroque church built in 1736 that sits atop the island and graciously watches over the one of the most photographed places in the Mediterranean.

Maistra Hotels

Roving Rovinj Rovinj has two stellar Maistra properties. Hotel Monte Mulini is a gracious five-star, full-service hotel with private balconies. The two-story windows in the atrium allow you to drink in sweeping views day and night. Off the atrium, the chic terrace lounge is the perfect place to watch the sunset. Hotel Lone is next door and has a modern, edgy vibe. There are several seating areas to mix and mingle, a convenient coffee bar, a superb restaurant called L and a fun disco that often features live music — making it great for a girl or guy getaway. Both hotels overlook the Adriatic Sea and are just steps from the “old town,” where the adventure begins. Rovinj is filled with picturesque postcard scenes of lovers sipping cappuccinos in open-air cafes, families bobbing on charter boats and sightseers meandering the labyrinth of narrow stone streets

Where to stay

Hotel Monte Mulini, from $395/night (double with breakfast) A. Smareglia bb, 52210, Rovinj, Croatia +358 5 2636000 Montemulinihotel.com

Maistra Hotels

Hotel Lone, from $153/night (double with breakfast) Ulica Luje Adamovića, 52210, Rovinj, Croatia +385 52 632 000 Hotellone.com Monte Mulini Hotel (top left) is a beautiful, five-star hotel featuring 99 guest rooms and 14 suites, many of which have private balconies that overlook the deep blue Adriatic Sea below; Just a 15-minute stroll to Rovinj sits Hotel Lone (top right), a modern designer hotel featuring 12 suites and 236 boutique rooms many with private balcony hot spas that overlook the pool and the Adriatic Sea; Meneghetti Winery (above) is a romantic respite surrounded by vineyards and olive orchards in nearby Bale that features four romantic villa suites, a pool and, of course, gourmet wine dinners. 116 October–November 2014

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In addition to the above five-star fullservice Maistra hotels, there are mid-priced hotels, private rooms, apartments and camping sites.

brimming with boutique shops, art galleries, eateries and nightspots — one called Valentino’s invites guests to sip cocktails and listen to music while perched on rocks overlooking the sea. Winery Tour The local white wine of Rovinj is Malvazija, made from the malvasia grape with reds derived from teran, a dark varietal from the 14th century. Wine making has been growing and improving since the 1990s. A visit to the Stancija estate in nearby Bale, home of the Meneghetti winery, takes you back to 1853, when an Austrian admiral decided to build a large naval retreat. Stancija was where the food was produced and where officers would rest and recreate. In 2001, Romana and Mirosalv

Chiavalon.hr

Pliso purchased and restored the 75-acre rural estate and added new olive trees and grape vines. Businessman and wine connoisseur Goran Hanzek partnered and brought on world-renowned wine expert Walter Filiputti. Meneghetti hand-harvested grapes have since become “international wines that speak the Istrian language.”

Chiavalon (top) is an olive farm open for tours and tastings; Sandi Chiavalon (above) and his brother, Tedi, have nurtured their family’s 400 year-old olive trees and business to produce one of the top 15 olive oils in the world.

Olive Oil Tasting Thanks to being the northernmost area for olive growing in the world, there are about 30 olive varietals in Istria. Some are not found anywhere else in the world. Tedi and Sandi Chiavalon are third generation brothers who live and work on their organic olive orchard farm. Some of the 7,500 trees are 400 years old, but if pictures of peasants in overalls are on your mind, purge them. Two young, educated, energetic brothers run this operation. The day I visited was the first of the 20 days of harvest season. I learned that to get two gallons of olive oil you have to press about 220 pounds of green olives. Black olives yield about five times more. Extra virgin is the highest quality and most expensive olive oil classification. It should have no defects and a flavor of fresh olives. On the grounds is an unexpected treat — an olive oil tasting room. Bottles of olive oil illuminated with soft lights line the entire length of the room. Sleek mahogany EmeraldCoastMagazine.com October–November 2014

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going places tables are set with small stemless crystal glasses awaiting precious liquid gold. Tasting olive oil is similar to wine; smelling it prepares your palate, sipping it with air aerates the oil and is key to enjoying its full flavor. Color, it turns out, is not important. The Chiavalons make five different blends by hand, which takes a week to 10 days. It’s packaged as Ex Albis and is ranked in the top 15 olive oils in the world.

More Must Dos

Truffle Hunting A highlight of this trip was hunting for truffles in the small town of Livade near the Motovun Woods (about a 40-minute drive from Rovinj). On a misty morning a guide called a tartufalo, along with his two trained hounds, helped sniff out the fragrant black and white ball-shaped treasures from the rich earth. The annual Truffle Days is a festival held here every October. You can fill up on local music, truffle-inspired dishes and shop for truffle and olive oils.

View the bronze of the largest truffle in the world on display at the entrance to Zigante Restaurant, owned by Giancarlo Zigante, who along with his dog, Diana, sniffed out the 2 lb. 8 oz. fungus in 1999 and landed both of them in the Guinness Book of Records.

Bale is a quaint, quiet village that is just an eight-mile drive from Rovinj. The perfect place to start that novel. MenEghettI Winery is an ideal place for a relaxing romantic getaway. Come for a tour, have dinner and stay overnight in one of the 10 villas on the winery. Complete with a swimming pool, it would be a relaxing honeymoon.

Spacio celebrates the old ways of living by the sea. This event includes a welcome drink, a tour of the Batana Museum, a serenaded batana boat ride, stories, live music and performances during a four-course dinner in an old tavern.

(Above) Bale is a quaint town a few miles south of Rovinj with rich cultural history and beautiful architecture; (right) The Hotel Monte Mulini’s Wine Vault offers a modern take on traditional Istrian dishes in an elegant fine dining atmosphere; (below right) In Rovinj a glass of Malvazija wine and a dish drizzled, infused or kissed with truffles is a tasty must do.

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Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa 4000 Sandestin Blvd. South, Destin, FL 32550

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Maistra Hotels

World-Class Spa After harvesting and hunting it seemed only appropriate to relax, re-mineralize and revitalize my body at Hotel Lone’s modern, full-service spa with a Mediterranean Spice body treatment utilizing fresh herbs. The 60-minute treatment was exquisite. You can come early or linger after your appointment to relax in a Jacuzzi, sauna or swim in the indoor pool, refresh at the Vitality Bar or simply lounge in the quiet chaise chairs in the Relaxation Zone. Wine and Dine Croatia is a world-class destination for foodies. The Adriatic is teeming with sea life and local menus, ranging from casual to fine dining that celebrate the city’s proximity to the sea with dishes showcasing sardines, cuttlefish, oysters, scallops, prawn and squid. And there are delicious artisan cheeses, Istrian prosciutto, crusty breads for dipping in freshly pressed olive oil and, of course, tantalizing truffles which star in everything imaginable, from pasta to ice cream! These restaurants are definite must-dos: Wine Vault is a swank restaurant located in the cellar of Hotel Monte Mulini. Reserve the Chef’s

Table for dinner and enjoy inventive Istrian dishes beautifully designed by revered Chef Tom Gretic. Restaurant Lanterna is a 10-minute boat ride to the Island of St. Andrew where you will enjoy a romantic dinner in an old castle called Huetterot. Kantinon serves up stunning sea views and authentic local cuisine for lunch and dinner that celebrates the Rovinj fishing tradition. Restaurant L is located inside Hotel Lone and serves contemporary cuisine featuring local, fresh ingredients artfully prepared by Chef Priska Thuring. I experienced an unexpected revelation when I returned home. It turns out that my husband’s family is of Croatian decent. The story, as the European aunts and uncles tell it, is that their parents came from the Eastern European regions of Hungary and Croatia. After a couple glasses of wine, they will admit to being some of “the first gypsies” who eventually migrated to Vienna, Austria. All roads do seem to lead by Rovinj. Like everyone who visits, I too, can’t wait to go back “home” to a place that I would call … “enchanting.” ec

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Culinary Comfort,

Southern Style Art Smith Gives Back and ‘Pays it Forward’ By Audrey Post // Photos by Stephen Hamilton

hen you think of Southern-style comfort food, “healthy” usually isn’t the first word that springs to mind. Once you’ve read “Art Smith’s Healthy Comfort,” however, you might rethink your definition of “comfort.” Subtitled “How America’s Favorite Celebrity Chef Got It Together, Lost Weight, and Reclaimed His Health,” the book is part recipe collection and part inspirational coaching. Smith — celebrity chef to stars including Oprah Winfrey, James Beard Award winner, North Florida native and Florida State University alumnus — readily admits that for most of his life, he consoled himself with food in response to life’s darts and daggers. But when he was diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes a few years ago, he faced the challenge head-on: He changed his lifestyle, “re-imagined” his favorite foods prepared in a more healthful way and took up running. He lost 120 pounds and, as he says in the book’s introduction, “wrestled type 2 diabetes into submission, or at least remission!” “Like so many people, I ate to combat the negativity and to fill a void. I was around food all day long, so this wasn’t too hard, and no one seemed to notice when I packed on the pounds,” he wrote. “I was a fat, jovial chef who cooked good-ole-boy Southern food that the world loved.” He doesn’t present his latest cookbook as a “diet book,” instead saying the recipes focus on healthful whole foods and flavors that contribute to a healthy lifestyle. Friends say his willingness to share with 120 October–November 2014

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With a beautiful presentation and simple preparation, Herb and MustardCrusted Pork Tenderloin with Roasted Peaches is one of the recipes in chef Art Smithâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s new cookbook.

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others what worked for him is more than just good business; it’s part of Art Smith today who shed 120 Smith’s generous nature. pounds and Type He recalls some friends ex2 diabetes with the more healthful pressed concern when he decided eating he embraces to open his first restaurant, Cain his new book. mellia Grill, in Tallahassee. When asked if he was sure he knew what he was getting into, “I thought I did, but I didn’t,” he said. “We wanted it to be a very hipster kind of place, lots of brick and corrugated tin.” Smith has learned a lot since that first venture on Tharpe Street, and he now owns restaurants in Chicago, Washington, D.C., Atlanta and several California locations. He and his spouse, artist Jesus Salgueiro, founded Common Threads in 2003 to teach children about cultural diversity, nutrition and healthy living through the arts and cooking. 122 October–November 2014

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Roasted Sweet Potato and Ginger Soup Serves 6

For the soup 2 medium sweet potatoes 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil 1 medium yellow onion, cut into small dice 2 tablespoons minced fresh ginger

1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and minced 2 teaspoons ground coriander ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg 4 cups low-sodium chicken stock or water Salt

For the garnish 2 green onions, root ends removed, finely chopped METHOD Preheat the oven to 450 degrees. Poke the sweet potatoes with a fork, wrap in aluminum foil and bake in the oven for one hour. Remove from the oven and let cool to room temperature. Cut the sweet potatoes in half, and scrape out the flesh. Heat the oil over medium heat in a large Dutch oven or heavy soup pot. Add the onions and ginger and cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, for five minutes or until the onions are translucent. Add the jalapeño, coriander and nutmeg and cook for three minutes or until fragrant. Add the roasted sweet potato flesh and stock to the pot. Simmer for 10 minutes. Remove from heat and puree with a handheld immersion blender or in a food processor until smooth. Season with salt. ASSEMBLY Divide the soup among six serving bowls and sprinkle with the green onions. Per serving: 111 calories, 6 grams of fat (1 gram of saturated fat), 0 milligrams of cholesterol, 73 milligrams of sodium, 12 grams of carbohydrates, 4 grams of sugar, 2 grams of fiber, 4 grams of protein, 22 milligrams of calcium.

‘‘

Like so many people, I ate to combat the negativity and to fill a void. I was around food all day long, so this wasn’t too hard, and no one seemed to notice when I packed on the pounds. I was a fat, jovial chef who cooked good-ole-boy Southern food that the world loved.” — Art Smith EmeraldCoastMagazine.com October–November 2014

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Roasted Acorn Squash and Honey

Serves 4

2 acorn squash (about 1 pound each) 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil Âź teaspoon grated fresh nutmeg 2 tablespoons honey 8 sage leaves, chopped Salt and freshly ground black pepper

METHOD Split the squash in half and scrape out the seeds with a spoon. Cut the squash halves into quarters and place in a mixing bowl, leaving the skin on the squash sections. Toss the squash with the olive oil, nutmeg, honey and sage leaves. Lay the squash pieces, cut sides down, on a baking sheet. Bake for 30 to 40 minutes or until the squash flesh begins to turn golden brown and is tender. Season the squash with salt and pepper. ASSEMBLY Arrange the squash on a serving platter.

Per serving: 108 calories, 5 grams of fat (1 gram saturated fat), 0 milligrams cholesterol, 4 milligrams sodium, 18 grams of carbohydrates, 8 grams of sugar, 2 grams of fiber, 1 gram of protein, 39 milligrams of calcium.

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The chef raised $10,000 for Common Threads when he competed on Bravo TV’s hit “Top Chef Masters.” Common Threads now has chapters in Chicago, Miami, Los Angeles and Washington, and Smith and Salgueiro are opening the first rural chapter in Jasper, Fla., Smith’s hometown. He has also supported Goodwood Museum & Gardens over the years, from the very first fundraiser under a huge pink tent on the front lawn in the early 1990s through the antique shows in the early 2000s. He first got to know Goodwood when he was an FSU student in the ’70s and ’80s, back in the day when its last owner, Tom Hood, was still living in the main house and renting out the cottages on the property. “The place was kind of creepy back then. It wasn’t in very good shape,” Smith recalled. “Now, just look at it!” Smith says Goodwood is more than a pretty place that’s a prop for weddings. “It’s a place where history was created,” he said. “We want the little ones to love this place as much as the big ones, because ultimately they are the ones who will be called upon to support and preserve it.” ec

Herb and Mustard-Crusted Pork Tenderloin with Roasted Peaches (pictured on page 121)

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Serves 4

For the pork 1 pork tenderloin Salt and freshly ground black pepper 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard 2 tablespoons herbs de Provence For the peaches 3 peaches 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil 1 sprig rosemary METHOD To prepare the pork: Preheat the oven to 425 degrees. Season the pork on all sides with salt and pepper. Rub the mustard completely over the pork and sprinkle it with the herbs de Provence. Place in a roasting pan and roast for 40 to 45 minutes or until the pork reaches an internal temperature of 140 degrees on an instant-read thermometer. Remove from the oven and let rest for 15 minutes before slicing into ½-inch thick pieces. To prepare the peaches: Preheat the oven to 425 degrees. Blanch the peaches in boiling water for 1 minute and immediately shock in a bowl of ice water. Remove and discard the skins. Cut the peaches into eighths. Place the peach slices in an ovenproof pan and drizzle the olive oil over them. Add the rosemary sprig. Cover the pan and roast in the oven for 15 minutes or until the peaches are tender. Discard the rosemary sprig. ASSEMBLY Divide the pork among four serving plates, and spoon the roasted peaches over the top. Per serving: 328 calories, 9 grams of fat (2 grams of saturated fat), 147 milligrams of cholesterol, 300 milligrams of sodium, 12 grams of carbohydrates, 9 grams of sugar, 2 grams of fiber, 49 grams of protein, 18 milligrams of calcium.

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BEST HIBACHI

18 H ibac ib achi hi T able ab less · S ushi Bar · Private Dining g · Happy ppy Hour 44–6 Hibachi Tables Sushi 850.650.4688 or 850.650.4689 • 34745 Emerald Coast Parkway / Destin 126 October–November 2014

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CELEBRATE THE SEASON with

Scott Holstein

modern mexican cuisine

Personal chefs Mary Churillo (left) and Patti Horton at a home in Fort Walton Beach.

Sip the finest margarita Taste guacamole made fresh at your table Savor fresh seafood and steaks

Comfort Food Delivered to your Door Cooking up some of the comfort food you crave can prove to be a difficult task, and the crowds at some restaurants around the Emerald Coast make it even harder to dine on your favorite meals. But there are three local businesses dishing up meals “on wheels” delivered right to your door that just may inspire you to dine in. Wendy’s Kitchen Want a home-cooked meal but only want to throw something in the oven? Call Wendy. Wendy’s Kitchen features a different homecooked meal with some Southern flare every day. She posts her weekly menu on her Facebook page and on her blog every Saturday morning, featuring the meal of the day by offering a $5 hot lunch. All her customers have to do is throw the aluminum pan full of her tasty concoctions in the oven. She offers two sizes — a small portion, costing about $20, which feeds two to three people; and a regular portion, costing about $30, which feeds four to six people. To order, her customers can reach her to reserve their meal a day in advance by calling, texting or using the order button on her blog. (850) 837-8837, wendyskitchentogo.wordpress.com Michelle’s Kitchen Dining out in a tourist destination can sometimes be a challenge, but Michelle’s Kitchen gives customers the delicious food they crave at home away from the crowds. And here is the best part — it’s healthier than regular restaurant food. From roasted chicken to pan-seared salmon, she has it all. Her prices range from $15 to $30 per entrée. Customers can order by visiting her website, calling or emailing her. (850) 218-8339, michelleskitchentogo.com Chefs on the Go In 1998, Mary Churillo left her nursing career and created a personal chef service to serve the Emerald Coast. She and her business partner Patti Horton can cook anything, from menus for those with special diet needs such as diabetics to menus for vacationers ready to engorge themselves on the richest food around. The two women come into their customers’ homes and cook all the meals for the week. Said Churillo, “We simplify their lives and make it easier.” Typically a meal for two costs somewhere between $40 to $50, including groceries, but for much larger groups they charge a base service fee of $200 on top of the cost for groceries. To request their services, customers typically call or email them a few days in advance. (850) 729-3377, chefonthegoinc.com

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— Janie Harris EmeraldCoastMagazine.com October–November 2014

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Restaurant

Spirits

The New Bijoux Your favorite bistro is even better and now located at the Market Shops Private dining rooms and outdoor courtyard spaces accommodate anything from an intimate meal to an extravagant event. Our bar features an exclusive menu and drink specials. Looking for something even more unique? Our private wine room can be reserved for your next event.

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Our award-winning Chef Jack can be booked for your next party or event. Bijoux Catering can accommodate private parties, weddings and corporate events off-site or at the restaurant. From hors d’oeuvres to buffets and plated dinners, we customize each event to your specific needs.

(850) 622-0760 · bistrobijouxdestin.com EmeraldCoastMagazine.com

dining 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

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

Best of the Emerald Coast 2014 Winner Breakfast Lunch Dinner Outdoor Dining Live Music

$ $$

Inexpensive Moderately Expensive $$$ Expensive

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 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. $$ l d Another Broken Egg café ★ Breakfast. Breakfast all day, plus sandwiches, patty melts, specials, soups, salads and desserts. Open daily 7 a.m.–2 p.m. Closed Mondays. (Open Memorial and Labor days.) 979 E. Hwy. 98, Suite F, 850-650-0499. $ B Boathouse Oyster Bar Seafood. Discover Destin’s best-kept secret. Come here for ice cold beer, raw oysters, award-winning gumbo and a great view of the Destin Harbor, and leave with a signature T-shirt from the gift shop. Open daily 11 a.m.–2 a.m. 288 B Harbor Blvd., 850-837-3645. l d Boshamps Seafood & Oyster House ★ Seafood. Located on the beautiful Destin Harbor, this seafood spot will spoil you with spectacular sunsets, sensational Gulf-to-table Southern cuisine (including award-winning oysters!) and family-friendly service all in a fun, relaxed, casual atmosphere. Open daily at 11 a.m. 414 Harbor Blvd., Destin, 850-424-7406. $$ l d Callahan’s Restaurant & Deli ★ American. Voted Best Locally Owned Restaurant 2008–2013, 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

rbor

...on the ha

ing uneiqnuues Featurh nig tly m

BEST SEAFOOD RESTAURANT 2010-2014

Full Bar • Outdoor S ea

Lunch menu available 11AM-3PM

ting

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

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

...overlooking Crab Island

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. $$ l d Destin Ice Seafood Market & Deli ★ Gourmet Takeout. Everything you need for a fresh and delicious meal. Choose from fresh fish and seafood items, pastas, salads and side dishes, Buckhead meats, decadent deserts and an assortment of wines, cheeses, spices and more. Open daily 8 a.m.–7 p.m. 663 Emerald Coast Pkwy., 850-837-8333. $$ 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

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

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on the menu

Bud & Alley’s Crabcakes

From perfect pigs to dogs named Bud and cats named Alley, the restaurants and eateries all along the EC can be playful. That said, we encourage you to get out and play with your food all you want. And here are a few dishes from menus around town to get you started. Breakfast The Perfect Pig, Santa Rosa Beach

The Perfect Pig & Gourmet Market is just that for those seeking a bite in a quaint place oozing with charm. They serve breakfast, lunch and dinner. We enjoyed a light bite sitting on tall chairs outside with a view of Scenic Highway 30A. We picked a crusty croissant filled with heavenly almond flavored filling, but you can order a number of different kinds. We were tempted to pair with a peach nectar Bellini but opted for a hot cup of Amavida coffee. $2.95

Lunch Nestled just across from the Destin Harbor is a new little gem. But don’t let the name fool you — breakfast isn’t the only important meal of the day here. We noshed on the Rotisserie Chicken & Bacon sandwich featuring chicken, lettuce, tomato, Monterey jack cheese and avocado on toasted wheat bread. All meats are gluten free, and sandwiches are served with your choice of a side. We had cucumber salad. Let’s just say, we can’t wait to belly up to this breakfast table soon. $9

Dinner Bud & Alley’s, Seaside

Famous for its sunset celebrations, Bud & Alley’s is an iconic landmark on 30A in Seaside. It serves up the Southern coastal classics, but one is so good it’s hard to order anything else. Bud & Alley’s Crabcakes are two cakes pan fried in a light, flaky crust and served atop watercress and micro greens with just a touch of lemon butter. Here, being in a crabby mood is a very good thing. $34 130 October–November 2014

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Photo By Jack Gardner courtesy of Bud and Alley’s

The Breakfast Table, Destin

dining 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. $$ B l d Graffiti Italian. Traditional Italian favorites and house specialties like seafood pizza. Mon–Thu 5–9 p.m., Fri–Sat 5–10 p.m. 707 E. Hwy. 98, 850-654-2764. $$ d Harbor Docks ★ American. A local’s favorite, this family-owned and operated surf-andturf restaurant overlooking the Destin Harbor offers breakfast, lunch and dinner and the best sushi on the Emerald Coast. Open daily 5 a.m.–11 p.m. 538 E. Hwy. 98, 850-837-2506. $$ B l d HARRY T’S ★ Seafood. Lounge on the beautiful patio and watch the passing boats as you enjoy an endless variety of delicious dishes. Mon–Thu 11 a.m.–10 p.m., Fri–Sat 11 a.m.–11 p.m., Sun 10 a.m.–10 p.m. 46 Harbor Blvd., 850-654-4800. $$ B l d Jackacuda’s Seafood & Sushi Seafood. Fresh seafood, sushi, salad, sandwiches and more served in a casual atmosphere overlooking the Destin harbor. Enjoy live music and Sunday brunch. Open daily from 11 a.m. Sunday brunch at 10 a.m. 56 Harbor Blvd, HarborWalk Village, Destin. 850-424-3507. $$ l d Jim ’N Nick’s Bar-B-Q ★ Barbecue. Southern smokehouse barbecue. Beer and wine. Open daily 11 a.m. 14073 Emerald Coast Pkwy., 850-351-1991. $ l d Johnny O’Quigley’s American. Award-winning steak, seafood and barbecue in one of Destin’s favorite sports bars. Mon–Thu 11 a.m.–midnight, Fri–Sun 11 a.m.–1 a.m, Double Happy Hour Mon–Fri 3–6 p.m. and 10 p.m.–close. 34940 Emerald Coast Pkwy., 850-837-1015. $ l d Margaritaville American. Escape to Jimmy Buffet’s Margaritaville for island-inspired food, fun and the “it’s five o’clock somewhere” mentality. Open daily from 11 a.m. 76 Harbor Blvd., HarborWalk Village, Destin. 850-460-7700. $$ l d Marina Café American. Gourmet pizzas, Creole and American cuisine. Open daily 5–10 p.m. 404 E. Hwy. 98, 850-837-7960. $$ d Mimmo’s Ristorante Italiano Italian. Mimmo’s is the new hot spot in Destin for authentic Italian dishes bursting with flavor and color. Enjoy happy hour at the full bar serving authentic Italian cocktails. Catering available. Open Mon–Fri 11 a.m–10 p.m., Sat–Sun 5–10 p.m. 979 Highway 98, Suite 5, 850-460-7353. $$ 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. $$ l d Pepito’s ★ Mexican. Voted Best Mexican on the Emerald Coast, locals love Pepito’s for its authentic Mexican cuisine and mouthwatering margaritas. Happy Hour specials all day Mondays, including small rocks margaritas and all beer and well drinks for $1.99. Open daily 11 a.m.–10 p.m. 757 E. Hwy. 98, 850-650-7734. $$ l d 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. $$$ d Sarah k’s gourmet Gourmet Takeout. Chef-crafted, ready-to-heat cuisine. Jumbo lump crab cakes and fresh chicken salad are the house specialties. Open at 11 a.m. 34940 Hwy. 98, 850-269-0044. $ l d Tuscany Italian Bistro Italian. Northern Italian cuisine featuring choice meats, fresh seafood and garden vegetables. Tues–Sun 4 p.m.–close. 36178 Emerald Coast Pkwy., 850-650-2451. $$ d EmeraldCoastMagazine.com October–November 2014

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dining 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 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. $$ d Bon Appetit French Bakery & Café ★ French. Delicious made from scratch French pastries, croissants and crusty breads. Soup, salads and sandwiches served 7:30 a.m.–5:30 p.m. Mon–Fri, Sat 7:30 a.m.–2 p.m. Closed Sun. 420 Mary Esther Cutoff. 850-244-2848 Buffalo’s Reef Famous Wings ★ American. This restaurant is famous for hot wings and cold beer. Ask about the daily specials. Tue–Sat open at 10:30 a.m., Sun open at noon. 116 Eglin Pkwy., 850-243-9463. $ l d Clemenza’s Uptown ★ Italian. Award-winning classic Italian cuisine and wood-fired pizza. Parties, special events and private dining. Full-service bar and espresso bar. Open Mon-Fri for lunch, Mon-Sat for dinner. 75 Eglin Pkwy. 850-243-0707 $$ 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. $ld 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. $$ l d Mama Clemenza’s European Breakfast ★ European. This award-winning breakfast is culinary perfection. Enjoy a diverse menu of authentic Old World family recipes. Sat 8 a.m.–noon, Sun 8 a.m.–1 p.m. Clemenza’s Uptown, 75 Eglin Pkwy. 850-243-0707. $$ B 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

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 132 October–November 2014

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

Miramar Beach

Aegean Restaurant ★ Greek. Sip an ouzo at the beautiful stone bar before savoring the flavors of the Mediterranean at this authentic Greek restaurant. Breakfast 8–11 a.m., Lunch 11 a.m.–4 p.m., Dinner 4–9 p.m. 11225 Emerald Coast Pkwy., 850-460-2728. $$ B l d Another Broken Egg Café ★ Breakfast. Award-winning breakfast all day, plus sandwiches, patty melts, specials, soups, salads and desserts. Open daily from 7 a.m.– 3 p.m. Two Sandestin locations: On the Bay (next to the LeCiel at Sandestin) and in The Village of Baytowne Wharf at Sandestin, (in the Village) 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. $$$ d Cantina Laredo ★ Mexican. Boasting a contemporary décor and fiery flavor, the new addition to Grand Boulevard offers gourmet twists on Mexican favorites. Save room for dessert, and check out the Sunday brunch. Sun–Thu 11 a.m.–10 p.m., Fri–Sat 11 a.m.–11 p.m. 585 Grand Blvd., 850-654-5649. $$ B l d Elephant Walk ★ American. 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. W., 850-267-4800. $$$ l d Fat Clemenza’s ★ Italian. Feel like part of the family as you enjoy homemade classical Italian cuisine. Lunch Mon–Fri 11 a.m.–2 p.m. Dinner Mon–Wed 5–9:30 p.m., Thu–Sat 5–10 p.m. Holiday Plaza/Hwy. 98, 850-650-5980. $$ 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. $$ d John Wehner’s Village Door Bayfront Restaurant & Nightclub ★ American. Rock your evening with dinner and dancing on the best dance floor on the Emerald Coast. Village Door Smokehouse with seating on deck overlooking the bay serving barbecue and seafood daily 5–9 p.m. The Village of Baytowne Wharf, 126 Fisherman’s Cove. 850-502-4590. $ d Marina Bar and Grill American. Seafood, po-boys, burgers, salads overlooking the Baytowne Marina and Choctawhatchee Bay. You catch ’em we cook ’em service. Open daily 11 a.m.–7 p.m., Breakfast Sat–Sun 8–11 a.m. Kitchen closed Mon–Tue. Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort, 9300 Emerald Coast Pkwy. W., 850-267-7778. $ B l d Marlin Grill ★ Steak and Seafood. Fresh seafood, steaks, salads and appetizers served inside or outside. Open nightly at 5 p.m. Village of Baytowne Wharf, 850-351-1990. $$$ l d P.F. Chang’s China Bistro ★ Asian. Sample crunchy lettuce wraps or Chinese favorites like Kung

& Classic Italian & Wood-Fired Pizza Lunch & Dinner Monday through Saturday

European Breakfast Saturdays & Sundays

Thank you for voting us the Best Italian, Best Restaurant in Okaloosa County and Best Brunch AGAIN!

The Tradition Continues (850) 243-0707 • 75 Eglin Parkway, Fort Walton Beach

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a taste for ... The Kale Craze America is in the midst of a kale craze — and for excellent reason. Ranging in color from deep green to red to purple, this leafy vegetable is truly one of the healthiest foods on the planet. One cup of chopped kale contains 9 percent of the average daily value of calcium, 134 percent of vitamin C, 206 percent of vitamin A and a startling 684 percent of vitamin K, all in only 33 calories. Also rich in minerals, copper, potassium, iron, manganese and phosphorus, kale contains cancerfighting antioxidants as well as lutein and zeaxanthin, which promote eye health. When selecting fresh kale, search for firm, deeply colored leaves with hardy stems. When refrigerated in an airtight, zipped plastic bag, kale will last up to five days if unwashed. Having a plethora of uses in the kitchen, kale can be consumed raw as a substitute for lettuce in salads, blended into smoothies, thrown into soups or pasta sauces, steamed or even baked as a chip. To make kale chips, simply slice the leaves into bite-size pieces, toss with sea salt and olive oil and bake for 10 to 15 minutes at 350 degrees until brown and crispy. — Samantha Rhodes

Thank you for voting us the BEST for 7 years!

Lunch Mon–Fri 11–2 Dinner Mon–Sat 5–9

™ The original, award-winning ing wood-ﬁred pizza and classical icall Italian cuisine 2008 - Best Italian 2009 - Best Pizza 2010 - Best Pizza & Best Chef 2011 - Best Pizza, Best Italian & Best Chef ef 2012 - Best Italian 2013 - Best Pizza & Best Walton Restaurant ant

2014 - Best Restaurant in Waltonn County, Best Pizza & Best Cheff Clovis DaSilva 134 October–November 2014

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12273 US Hwy 98 Miramar Beach fatclemenzas.com 850.650.5980

dining 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 Seagar’s Prime Steaks and Seafood ★ Steak and Seafood. Premium steak, fresh seafood and caviar. Open 6 p.m. daily. Hilton Sandestin. 4000 S. Sandestin Blvd., 850-622-1500. $$$ d Tommy Bahama’s Restaurant & Bar Caribbean. Get a taste of the islands with jerk spices, fresh fish and the best desserts on the coast as voted by readers of Emerald Coast Magazine. Open Sun–Thu 11 a.m.–11 p.m. Fri–Sat 11 a.m.–midnight. 525 Grand Blvd., 850-654-1743. $$ l d Vin’Tij Wine Boutique & Bistro American. Traditional favorites and unique house dishes. Open daily 11 a.m.–midnight. 10859 W. Emerald Coast Pkwy., Suite 103, 850-650-9820. $ l d

Niceville/Valparaiso

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

YOSHIE YOSHIE @ @ Harbor Harbor DocksDocks

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

Basmati’s Asian Cuisine & Sushi Asian. Asian dishes and full sushi bar. Open 4 p.m. daily. 3295 W. Hwy. 30A, 850-267-3028. $$ d Café Bolo ★ American. Gourmet coffee, sandwiches, soups, pastries and cakes on beautiful Scenic 30A. Open daily from 7 a.m. 4368 County Road 30A, 850-267-2060 $ B l Café Tango American. Seafood, poultry and pasta served with specialty sauces. Homemade desserts. Open Tue–Sun 5–10 p.m. 14 Vicki St., 850-267-0054. $$$ d 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

LIVE LIVE LAUGH LAUGH EAT EAT DRINK DRINK

LOVE LOVE

ST SUSH BE 09 –201 I 4 20

The Best The Best Sushi Sushion on The The Emerald Emerald Coast C Coast HarborHarbor Docks Docks 538 538 Harbor Harbor Blvd. Blvd. Destin Destin www.harbordocks.com www.harbordocks.com 837.2506 837.2506

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BEST SANDWICH SHOP

THANKS for VOTING US BEST SANDWICH SHOP 5 YEARS IN A ROW! Beal Pkwy. FWB 863-2015 Mary Esther 664-9000 Crestview 689-0202

Destin 269-1152 Eglin Pkwy. FWB 864-1004 Niceville 897-0282

lennys.com

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BEST WINGS 2010–2014

Ft. Walton Beach’s Favorite Wings Since 1990!

dining 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, including crab cakes, panned chicken, blackened fish and a few pastas. Mon– Sun 5–10 p.m. 35 Mussett Bayou Rd., 850-267-1500. $ d The Marigny ★ Creole. Enjoy authentic New Orleans-style cooking inside at linen covered tables or poolside on the covered patio lounge. Serving lunch and dinner daily 11 a.m.– 9 p.m. Enjoy the bar until midnight. 306 Bald Eagle Drive, 850-622-9101. $ l d VKI Japanese Steak House & Sushi Bar Asian. Using the freshest ingredients this Japanese gem serves up tasty Hibachi-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

served all our steaks are

sizzling tender, juicy and

Thank you Destin for voting us Best Steakhouse, Best Fine Dining Restaurant, and Best Romantic Restaurant in Emerald Coast Magazine.

Seaside & Seagrove Beach

Angelina’s Pizza & Pasta Italian. Authentic homemade pizza pie and Italian dishes in a casual atmosphere. Lunch and dinner daily: 11 a.m.–9:30 p.m. 4005 E. Hwy. 30A, 850-231-2500. $ l d Bud & Alley’s Restaurant American. A pioneer of farm- and sea-to-table dining serving fresh seafood, steak and vegetarian dishes. Famous bell ringing tradition with Happy Hour specials daily at sunset overlooking the Gulf. 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

Destin | 850.337.5108 | 15000 Emerald Coast Pkwy. /destinruthschris ruthschrisdestin.com |

Café Thirty-A Seafood. Seafood, lamb, duck, filet mignon and pizza. Open daily 5 p.m. 3899 E. Hwy. 30A, 850-231-2166. $$ d Crush American. Crush features an extensive wine menu, sushi and small plates. Open daily for lunch and dinner, noon–10 p.m. 25 Central Sq., 850-468-0703. $$ l d Great SOuthern Café Southern. Jim Shirley serves up Southern comfort food with a twist. Open daily for breakfast 8–11 a.m., lunch 11 a.m.–4 p.m., dinner 4–11:30 p.m. 83 Central Sq., 850-231-7327. $$ B l d La Botana Tapas. Small plates of Latin-inspired cuisine served in a casual but elegant atmosphere. Wine bar. Lunch and dinner Mon–Fri 4–11 p.m., Sat–Sun 11 a.m.–11 p.m. 4281 E. Hwy. 30A, 850-231-0716. $$ l d La Cocina Mexican Grill & Bar Mexican. Traditional Tex-Mex with a coastal twist. Open daily 11 a.m.– 3 p.m. and 5–9 p.m. Bar open until 10 p.m. 10343 E. Hwy. 30A, 850-231-4021. $$ l d Old Florida Fish House and Bar Seafood. Rustic seafood restaurant featuring a new take on old seafood favorites. Full bar. Dinner daily 5 p.m. 5235 Hwy. 30A, 850-534-3045. $$ d

Bar open serving T-bites ’till we kick you out

Dine In, Carry Out, Delivery & Catering 850.622.9101

306 Bald Eagle Drive • Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459

THEMARIGNYSRB.COM

“LIVE LONGER, EAT LIKE THE GREEKS”

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

Hours: 11am–9pm Delivery ’till 9pm Jazz Brunch : Sundays 11am–2pm

SHALIMAR 1259 EGLIN PARKWAY (850) 613-6120 MIRAMAR BEACH 11225 US HWY 98 (850) 460-2728 2012–2014

MEDITERRANEAN

AEGEANFL.COM

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the last word

A Timeless Letter from a Grandfather to His Grandson Fort Walton Beach Entrepreneur J.H. Beal Describes Life Lessons Learned Camp Walton, Okaloosa County, Florida October 16, 1929 Mr. Wm. Hartley Starkey, New Concord, Ohio Dear Grandson I had hoped to see you again this summer or fall before your departure for college, but was unable to arrange my affairs so as to visit Cincinnati during September. I trust that you are doing well in your college work. A great deal depends on getting started off properly, and unless you are careful your attention will be unconsciously diverted from your real work. The thought to be kept foremost in your mind at all times is that you are in college for the purpose of pursuing certain studies and not for the purpose of enjoying yourself at various sports. The following of sports can be done after you have completed your college career and will not then require the payment of tuition or extra living expenses. The greatest single factor in success is the power of self-control, which can be acquired only by compelling yourself to do what you know you ought to do rather than what you would most like to do. Do not have any hobbies outside of your studies. If you find a branch particularly difficult or find yourself falling back in it, make that particular branch your hobby, and you will later be surprised to discover that studies which at first seemed dry and uninteresting become fascinating when vigorously pursued. Indulge in frequent reviews. The average student is inclined to dismiss a subject from his mind as soon as he has passed it in recitation; the student who rises above the average is the one who reviews constantly. When I was in college I made it a practice to review at the end of each week the subjects passed over during the week and fortified this by a review at the end of each month. These quick reviews took very little time and kept my mind fresh on the main outlines of every subject. As far as I can recall I was either at the head of every class I was ever in or tied with somebody else for first place. If you make a passing grade in all of your subjects this year I will give you a hundred dollars at the end of this year, to be applied on your next yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s college expenses. If you do not make a passing grade in all subjects I will not give you anything. What little wealth I possess was acquired by hard work and self-denial, and I do not wish to expend it except on behalf of those who are equally diligent and equally ready to exercise self-denial. With kinder regards, I remain, Your affectionate grandfather,

J.H. Beal

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