Emerald Coast Magazine June/July 2019

2019 BEST OF THE EMERALD COAST CAST YOUR VOTE IN OUR ANNUAL READERS’ POLL!

MEET FLORIDA’S CHIEF EXEC

Ron DeSantis and family get comfortable in Tallahassee

DOODLES ARE OFF THE CHAIN

Designer dogs prove irresistibly fetching

CLOTHES HELP MAKE THE BROKER

Erin Oden’s stylebook has French accents

Brooke

&

James Come Full Circle Home again,

pair launches a signature restaurant

A Family Legacy

Fulfilling Dreams Since 1976

The Pride of a Master Craftsman

Photo by Romona Robbins

When old-world craft meets new-world technology, an unprecedented level of quality is birthed. At E.F. San Juan, the quality and long-term function of our woodwork are the keys to creating elements that will transform a house into a dream home.

This iconic home in Seaside, Florida, known as "In Surf We Trust," was a challenging build thanks to its many curved walls and exquisite details. Designed by Curtis & Windham Architects and built by O.B. Laurent Construction, the home features custom millwork and moulding throughout created by the team at E.F. San Juan. efs a nj u a n.c o m

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Wo m e n ’s + M e n ’s + K i d ’s C l o t h i n g , A l l N a t u r a l S u n s c r e e n & We l l n e s s P r o d u c t s , H a n d - P i c ke d V i n t a g e & M o r e !

C l o t h i n g & We l l n e s s P r o u d l y M a d e i n t h e U S A !

9 9 H OT Z AV E . , G R AY TO N B E AC H | ( 8 5 0 ) 5 3 3 - 4 0 1 9 T R I B E K E L L E Y. C O M | @ T R I B E K E L L E Y S U R F P O S T EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

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FIRST EXPOSURES

STARGAZERS

Storms have a way of cleansing the atmosphere, making way for unfiltered views of the heavens, and Hurricane Michael did so in dramatic fashion. Photographer Erick Lima was out and about with his Sony A7iii camera in Grayton Beach, a day after the big blow had cleared Northwest Florida, and happened upon some midnight riders who, without power at the house, went for a ride to get some air. The shot was taken using a Sony Zeiss 16-35 lens. (Aperture, f/4; exposure, 25 seconds.)

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FIRST EXPOSURES

DUNE DEER

Photographer Mike Fender spends a lot of time at St. Andrews State Park in Bay County, especially at dusk when wildlife, including whitetail deer, tend to be active.

Three does cooperated with him on Jan. 28 of this year, taking positions in the foreground with a dune line and the setting sun behind them. Fender used a Canon 1DX camera with a 200400 millimeter lens (aperture, f/4; exposure, 1/500 second) to capture the image.

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SH O P A ltar’d State A nth ro p o logi e B illab o ng B lu e me rcu ry ( Now Open) He mline J. Jill J.McLau g hl i n T h e Je we l ( Now Open) L illy P u litzer O p h e lia Swi mwear T h e O rv is C o m pany Pete r Millar ( Now Open) Potte ry Bar n To mmy B a ham a V in eyard Vi nes W illiams So n o ma (Now Open) Photo courtesy of J.McLaughlin

DINE A n oth e r B ro ke n Egg Café T h e B istro ( Lo cated in Co urt yard by Ma r r i ott Sandest in at G rand Bo u l eva rd )

B lack B e ar B read Co. (Opening Summer 2019 a t Hya tt P l a c e Sandest in at G rand Bo u l eva rd )

C antin a Lare do Moder n Mex i can T h e C raft Bar Eme ril’s C o astal Ital i an eve rkris p F le min g’s P rime Steak hous e & W in e Bar G rimaldi’s C o al Br i ck-Oven P izze ria Kilwins P F C h an g’s C hi na Bi s t ro Starb u cks Tommy Bahama Restaurant & Bar V in’tij Fo o d & Wi ne ( Now O pen) Photo courtesy of Emeril Lagasse

grandboulevard.com

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T h e W in e Bar

Contents

JUN/JUL 2019

FEATURES

76

FROM THE CITY TO THE SHORE



94

DESIGNER DOGS

For a husband-and-wife team of doodle breeders in Callaway, only the most carefully selected couplings will do.

by HANNAH BURKE

After achieving success in the intensely competitive cauldron of New York City, Brooke Parkhurst and Chef James Briscione have gone home again.

by KARI BARLOW

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NEW GOVERNOR IN THE HOUSE

Ron DeSantis is getting used to new digs after defeating Tallahassee’s Andrew Gillum in a closely contested gubernatorial race.

by PETE REINWALD

photography by MICHAEL BOOINI

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Contents

JUN/JUL 2019

27 99

43

128 GARDENING No, they

pinks and other electric colors, ladies are getting their neon.

36 CHAMPIONS Nan and Jim DeStafney are igniting passion for music in students throughout the Pensacola area.

PANACHE

43 CITIZEN OF STYLE

Realtor Erin Oden’s fashion sense was influenced by years spent living in France.

Here’s the download on a new app brings the world to your beach blanket.

104 STAGE The Gretchen

A BODES 115 INTERIORS From

of Big Orange House Designs recycles discarded objects in creating pieces that are wall-worthy.

66 DINING IN Adhering to a gluten-free diet can actually be a tasteful experience.

68 L IBATIONS The

Ultimate Bloody Mary at Stinky’s, accessorized with green beans, okra and a shrimp, is a meal in itself.

108 B OOKS Characters

E XPRESSION 99 A RT Angela Stevenson

GASTRO & GUSTO

Nelson Scott Fine Arts Center at Mosley High School in Lynn Haven has quickly become a community center.

in Shannon Butcher’s paranormal romance novels possess extraordinary powers that complicate their lives.

shears to shades to natural woods, window covering options have never been more numerous.

20 22 148 167 170

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PUBLISHER’S LETTER EDITOR’S COLUMN SOCIAL STUDIES DINING GUIDE POSTSCRIPT

2019 BEST OF THE EMERALD COAST CAST YOUR VOTE IN OUR ANNUAL READERS’ POLL!

MEET FLORIDA’S CHIEF EXEC

Ron DeSantis and family get comfortable in Tallahassee

DOODLES ARE OFF THE CHAIN

Designer dogs prove irresistibly fetching

CLOTHES HELP MAKE THE BROKER

Brooke

&

James Come Full Circle Home again,

pair launches a signature restaurant

Erin Oden’s stylebook has French accents

$3.95

www.emeraldcoastmagazine.com

Dining Out — The Yard Milkshakes: Bet you can eat just one.

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IN EVERY ISSUE

54 WHAT’S IN STORE

32 FROZEN FARE Adult

popsicles, alcoholic or virgin, are great treats for the Northwest Florida heat.

are not cuddly, but those flying mammals flitting over your backyard at dusk don’t deserve their bad reputation.

50 FOR HER With brilliant

27 PERSONALITY

Retired military aviator Heath Buckley carries guests aloft in a vintage biplane, The Spirit of 30A.

developments designed to invite neighborliness, front porches are making a comeback.

JUN-JUL 2019

A product of Rowland Publishing, Inc.

ON THE COVER:

Upon moving back home to Pensacola, Chef James Briscione and cookbook author Brooke Parkhurst discovered a downtown that blossomed during the years they spent in New York City. PHOTO BY

MATTHEW COUGHLIN

PHOTOS BY JACQUELIUNE WARD IMAGES (43, 99), MICHAEL BOOINI (27) AND CHELSEA DAY HOFFMAN (61)

THE WAVE

124 EXTERIORS In

HANDWOVEN SHADES + MOTORIZATION = BEAUTIFUL HOME

Contents

PROMOTION

JUN/JUL 2019

SPECIAL SECTIONS AND PROMOTIONS

118

58

DESTIN PLASTIC SURGERY

Plastic surgery is not just for the ladies. Destin Plastic Surgery offers procedures designed for men.

112

MATTIE KELLY ARTS FOUNDATION MKAF

celebrates 20 years of community outreach programs, signature events and promoting the importance of the arts for all ages.

Store and stack in style with your dream closet.

beautiful and has added a lifestyle store. The second location boasts 5,000 square feet of display space for items ranging from earrings to furniture.

WATERSCAPE — RESORTQUEST

BY WYNDHAM VACATION RENTALS

Amenities abound at this spectacular resort that is ideal for families seeking equal parts fun and relaxation.

146

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DEAL ESTATE

Step into sweet summer style from sunny straw hats to patterned sandals.

48

Three stunning, scenic and spacious homes are awaiting new owners looking for a primary residence or second home.

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BIJOUX DE MER FINE JEWELRY

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SANDESTIN RETAIL

From bright, bold colors to whimsical prints, Sandestin has warm-weather essentials.

BEST OF BALLOT Let your favorite local businesses know just how much you love them by casting your vote in the 2019 Best of the Emerald Coast readers choice awards. Vote for a variety of categories and services via the online ballot.

NEXT ISSUE

134

SUNSET SHOES

Delve into this treasure trove of summer statement jewelry and gems.

130

CLOSET SOLUTIONS

CALENDAR It’s summer! Enter a fishing tournament, sample craft beers at local fests, enrich yourself with cultural and performing arts and celebrate America.

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SACRED HEART FOUNDATION

“Stories from the Heart” describes people who have been helped by the Sacred Heart Foundation and the expertise and dedication of the caring men and women who make up the Sacred Heart Health System.

Consult our “Professional Profiles” and become familiar with many of our area’s most trusted and caring business pros from a variety of occupations.

June–July 2019 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

PHOTOS COURTESY OF LOVELACE INTERIORS (118), RESORTQUEST BY WYNDHAM VACATION RENTALS (130) AND MATTIE KELLY ARTS FOUNDATION (112)

↑ LOVELACE INTERIORS Lovelace Interiors is celebrating 25 years of making Emerald Coast homes

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One Restaurant. Three Experiences.

Enjoy Gulf Coast Americana cuisine locally sourced with Caribbean influences, as well as a vast collection of wines and spirits. Choose to dine in our vibrant dining room, intimate outdoor Veranda or relax on our Rooftop Lounge with views overlooking the Gulf and Main Street.

850-588-2882 | thepearlRB.com Located at The Pearl Hotel | 63 Main Street | Rosemary Beach, FL 32461

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EMERALD COAST MAGAZINE

VOL. 20, NO. 3

JUN–JUL 2019

PRESIDENT/PUBLISHER BRIAN E. ROWLAND

EDITORIAL EDITOR Steve Bornhoft MANAGING EDITOR Jeff Price STAFF WRITER Hannah Burke CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Kari C. Barlow, Laurie E. Koszuta, Thomas J. Monigan, Javis Ogden, Kate Pierson, Audrey Post, Pete Reinwald, Leisel Schmidt, Gary Yordon

CREATIVE DIRECTOR OF PRODUCTION AND TECHNOLOGY Daniel Vitter CREATIVE DIRECTOR Jennifer Ekrut ART DIRECTOR Saige Roberts SENIOR PUBLICATION DESIGNER Shruti Shah PUBLICATION DESIGNERS Sarah Burger, Lindsey Masterson GRAPHIC DESIGNER Sierra Thomas CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS 8 Fifty Productions, Alissa Aryn Photography, Michael Booini, Steve Bornhoft, Matthew Coughlin, Lawrence Davidson, Don McNaron Real Estate Photography, Steven Gray, Chelsea Day Hoffman, Scott Holstein, Jacqueline Ward Images, Rhonda Murray, Saige Roberts, Stephan Vance, Alex Workman, Chase Yakaboski

SALES, MARKETING AND EVENTS VICE PRESIDENT/CORPORATE DEVELOPMENT McKenzie Burleigh SALES MANAGER, EASTERN DIVISION Lori Magee Yeaton SALES MANAGER, WESTERN DIVISION Rhonda Lynn Murray DIRECTOR OF NEW BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT, EASTERN DIVISION Daniel Parisi DIRECTOR OF NEW BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT, WESTERN DIVISION Dan Parker ADVERTISING SERVICES COORDINATORS Tracy Mulligan, Lisa Sostre ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES David Doll, Julie Dorr, Darla Harrison, Linda Powell MARKETING MANAGER Kate Pierson SALES AND MARKETING WRITER Rebecca Padgett SALES AND EVENTS COORDINATOR Mackenzie Little SALES AND EVENTS ASSISTANT Abby Crane SENIOR INTEGRATED MARKETING COORDINATOR Javis Ogden

OPERATIONS ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES DIRECTOR Melissa Spear CUSTOM PUBLISHING MANAGER Sara Goldfarb CLIENT SERVICES REPRESENTATIVE/PRODUCTION SPECIALIST Melinda Lanigan ACCOUNTING ASSISTANT Amber Dennard RECEPTIONISTS Natalie Kazmin, Kaitlyn Henderson

DIGITAL SERVICES DIGITAL EDITOR Janecia Britt

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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

EDITORIAL OFFICE 1932 Miccosukee Road, Tallahassee, FL 32308. (850) 878-0554 SUBSCRIPTIONS One year (6 issues) is $30. Call (850) 878-0554 or go online to emeraldcoastmagazine.com.

Single copies are $3.95. Purchase at Barnes and Noble in Destin and Pensacola and Books-A-Million in Destin, Fort Walton Beach, Panama City and Pensacola.

CUSTOMER SERVICE & SUBMISSIONS Emerald Coast 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. Emerald Coast Magazine reserves the right to publish any letters to the editor.

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Copyright June 2019 Emerald Coast Magazine Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is prohibited.

from the publisher

A PLACE THAT SUSTAINS As a man half his current age, plaintiff’s attorney Fred Levin won what was then the largest compensatory award in U.S. history in a case brought against a railroad. A derailment had resulted in the rupturing of a car carrying toxic ammonia. A doctor and his wife, who lived near the site of the train wreck, were killed.

A $20 million verdict was returned against the defendant railroad, Levin achieved national prominence and his career was launched. Years later, his firm would take on the tobacco industry on behalf of the State of Florida, citing the harm done by smoking to people on statefunded Medicaid. Big Tobacco agreed to pay a settlement of $13 billion to the state, and Levin’s firm earned a fee of $300 million.

But Mr. Levin didn’t stop working.

And, while he could have chosen to live anywhere, he didn’t leave the Emerald Coast.

Last year, he told this magazine that Pensacola “is a small town that has everything I could ever want. Sports, culture, history, schools. It’s a hidden gem, and people here get along so well.

I feel very fortunate that this was the community where I grew up.”

Increasingly, it seems, people of magnificent means are complimenting the Emerald Coast by choosing to make it their home.

Santa Rosa County native, PGA golf professional and Master’s champion Bubba Watson strayed for a few years but has settled down in a bay-front home in Pensacola with his wife and adopted children.

Vastly successful author, speaker and health care industry consultant Quint Studer is steadfastly devoted to advancing the interests of Pensacola. He and Watson are partners in Pensacola’s minor league baseball team, and the two men have combined to contribute millions to the Studer Family Children’s Hospital.

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SCOTT HOLSTEIN

The Emerald Coast is a region of choice

Prominent athletes, musicians, political types and actors flock to Scenic Highway 30A. David Demarest, the communication director for Visit South Walton, told 850 Magazine editor Steve Bornhoft that celebrities, once they land on the Emerald Coast, may move within the area if their residences become the equivalent of a stop on Hollywood’s Movie Star Homes Tour.

But they tend not to leave.

Emeril Lagasse, who operates a restaurant on Grand Boulevard in Sandestin, traded Manhattan for the Emerald Coast. And, now, celebrity chefs and authors James Briscione and Brooke Parkhurst have done likewise. Both grew up in Pensacola and are glad to have departed the City that Never Sleeps for a region of endless waves.

Briscione says that he and his wife loved New York, but that ultimately it was not sustainable. NYC life, he found, is both “wonderful and tough.” For Parkhurst, it was a great place to build a career. Their move, they agree, has afforded them a chance to reconnect with their Southern roots and enjoy being close to family and the beach.

At this writing, the couple is making final preparations for the opening of their Pensacola restaurant, Angelena’s, which is sure to be a welcome addition to the city’s resurgent downtown.

“Brooke and I have been so impressed with the way Pensacola has grown and developed,” Briscione said. “It’s a vibrant community that we really wanted to become a part of.”

Justin Beck, the CEO of Beck Properties in Pensacola and someone who also left and rebounded to the coast, has a similar outlook.

“The spirit of ‘betterment’ is the only term I can think of to describe the attitude I see around Northwest Florida today,” he told editor Bornhoft. “When I came back to town 14 years ago, everyone seemed happy with the status quo. Today, everyone wants to get better, improve something, be more inclusive and try out new ideas. It’s really exciting.”

Welcome Back!

Zandra Wolfgram has returned as editor of Emerald Coast Magazine, meaning that Rowland Publishing now has an editor for each of its proprietary titles. Zandra and I have known each other for so long that we cannot recall exactly how we first met some 20 years ago.

Our relationship always has been one built on trust and transparency, the foundations of its longevity. I have said many times that her commitment to excellence and attention to detail make me a better publisher. I want to thank Steve Bornhoft for serving with distinction for several years as editor of both Emerald Coast and 850 magazines. I look forward to his continuing contributions as the editor and chief writer of 850.

The Emerald Coast is not a place where life is unsustainable. It is a place that sustains.

Be well,

BRIAN ROWLAND browland@rowlandpublishing.com

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editor’s letter

OF A FEATHER

Old friends have their eyes on the skies

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I bought a $12 cedar model, a length of 4-by-4, and a 50-pound bag of Sacrete and set them in the yard along with a bucket of water, a level, a screwdriver and a piece of hard plastic sheeting that I found down the street. It may have blown in from A house-hunting Port St. Joe on Oct. 10. In digging the hole, I bluebird finds a would place the spoils on the plastic to avoid place to his liking. suffocating grass.

Bob Vila was never more meticulous about his planning.

John stopped by at my request. He supplied me with encouragement and a shovel. I sold my garden tools upon moving to that apartment and haven’t replaced them all yet.

In fairness, I should say that John did help level the post before I watered the Sacrete. After it had set a while, I screwed the birdhouse onto the post and we were done.

It was then that John produced a sandwich bag and its organic contents from a pocket. He proceeded to sprinkle a pinch of whatever the bag contained into my bird feeder and placed another pinch at the base of the post and gave me the rest of the bagful of …

Dried mealworms. Stink like hell, but bluebirds love them. What a magnanimous gesture on his part. This is what true friends are for. Only John could have caused me to make a new habit of buying $13 bags of beetle larvae.

The bluebirds are back for Year 2 at John’s place, I had move-ins three days after my house went up and we now engage in a Bluebird Dialogue via texting and tweeting.

It is March as I write this and we agree that the chicks should be here any day now.

We can’t wait. We are older now and post storm.

Bird’s the word,

STEVE BORNHOFT

sbornhoft@rowlandpublishing.com

PHOTO BY STEVE BORNHOFT

Like fathers trading progress reports on their children, John and I exchange updates on bluebirds.

It hasn’t always been like this.

For five or six years, John had a bluebird house in his yard. No takers. Annually, he would explain to me that nesting boxes have to season for a time before birds will move in. Gotta get the human scent off them.

Meanwhile, the birdhouses at my place were attracting the wrong kind of tenant. I was excited when first I saw a head poking out of one of the boxes until I trained some binoculars on it and found that it was a palm rat.

At the time, I was living in a house with a wood-burning fireplace. So it was that I had stacked firewood in a corner of my yard at all times. The wood supply served as a rat tenement. And King Rat, I supposed, claimed the singlefamily residence intended for bluebirds. Chickadees, versus rodent vermin, would have been fine, too.

Even before moving to Tallahassee and becoming an apartment dweller for a time, I gave up on the rat houses ever becoming bird sanctuaries.

Meanwhile, John’s birdhouse remained in place and unoccupied through wind, rain and hurricanes.

Until last spring.

He didn’t trust his eyes at first. Bluebirds. A male perched on the roof of the house while the female checked out the interior. They would take it. Over the next couple of months, John sent me scores of bluebird photos. Nestbuilding activity. The incubation period. Chicks.

And, I’ll confess, I was a wee jealous. I had never had a relationship with a bluebird. Indeed, I had convinced myself that they preferred houses mounted on fence posts at the edges of Midwestern soybean fields. But John had somehow attracted a pair.

Darn him. He gets all the birds.

John and his wife, Leeann, bought two lots when they built their house way back when. Over many years, the unimproved lot, through benign neglect, grew to be overrun with beautyberry bushes and bracken ferns and brambles nearly impenetrable — a paradise for birds.

I moved into my current home, in Panama City Beach, in August of last year. I almost immediately put out a bird feeder suspended from a shepherd’s hook but went for months without attracting anything but doves. Finally a cardinal or two. And, you most always can attract blue jays with goobers.

Then, unaccountably but unmistakably, on a brilliant, cloudless day, I spied a male bluebird at my feeder and was inspired to one more time put out a house.

- Shakespeare

The largest selection of unique, fine pearl jewelry on the Emerald Coast custom designed and made

by Renee Launiere, Owner & Designer.

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We’re giving away a $75 GIFT CARD to The Bay Restaurant and TWO TICKETS to the kick off party for the Emerald Coast Blue Marlin Classic.

Offer ends June 15, 2019 Value: $225 Visit EmeraldCoastMagazine.com/ Giveaways to enter.

ONLINE EXCLUSIVE

Best Brunch Spots on 30A Whether you want bottomless mimosas or the best waffles around, we’ve rounded up the best places to satisfy your cravings. Check out the 10 best places in 30A for brunch at EmeraldCoastMagazine.com.

BEST OF THE EMERALD COAST ONLINE BALLOT Voting for Best of the Emerald Coast 2019 has officially begun, and we have moved our ballot online! Check out page 146 for info on how to use the magazine to enter, and visit EmeraldCoastMagazine.com/ Best-of-the-Emerald-Coast to see our exclusive online categories.

@EMERALDCOASTMAG Tag us on Instagram stories with your favorite local eats for a chance to be featured. We can’t wait to see where all of you are wining, dining and brunching along the Emerald Coast.

@emeraldcoastmag Emerald Coast Magazine @EmeraldCoastMag

SETTING IT STRAIGHT BLACK BEAR BREAD CO. will be opening a second location, this one at Hyatt Place Sandestin at Grand Boulevard, in late summer or early fall. An item in the April-May issue of Emerald Coast Magazine mistakenly reported that the new location already was open. The popular Santa Rosa Beach bakery and eatery is known for its gourmet tartines, Stumptown coffee and freshly baked bread and pastries.

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PHOTO BY IVANZIVKOVIC / GETTY IMAGES PLUS AND COURTESY OF EMERALD COAST BLUE MARLIN CLASSIC AND EMERALD COAST MAGAZINE INSTAGRAM PHOTOS BY TODD DOUGLAS PHOTOGRAPHY, WALT HARTLEY AND COURTESY CLUTCH MEDIA WORKS

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM

I N C E L E B R AT I O N O F

50 Years

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wave FROZEN FARE

Adultsicles

|| CHAMPIONS

Music is Their Mission

THE

JUN/JUL 2019

A CONSCIOUS, COOL COMPENDIUM OF COASTAL STUFF

PERSONALITY

AN OFFICE ALOFT

Business is taking off for Heath Buckley

by HANNAH BURKE

photography by MICHAEL BOOINI

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THE

wave

W

hile parents may scold children for having their heads in the clouds, Heath Buckley encourages it. The father of four has found that the sky is not a limit, but a boundless source of possibilities.

Buckley recalls stowing away aboard his pilot father’s weekend flights over the mountains of West Virginia. As soon as Buckley could man the yoke at age 13, his waypoint had been set: One day, he would be a military aviator.

“That was my dream, so I in no way expect any of my kids to follow in my footsteps,” said Buckley.

“But I will see to it that they all have their pilot certificate by the time they graduate high school.

I want to send them off into the world knowing they’ve experienced what it’s like to soar, be it for fun or to kick off a career.”

Buckley prays that his children never experience what it’s like to be denied their dreams. It’s a soulcrushing prospect and one Buckley had to endure after a college flight physical revealed astigmatism, grounding his pilot ambitions.

Devastated, but no less determined to serve his country, Buckley spent the 1990s with the 75th Ranger Regiment. He completed graduate school and re-enlisted in the U.S. Army as an officer, all the while retrying the flight physical three or four times.

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Finally, in 2003, when vision standards were relaxed to 20/40, Buckley was in.

He and wife Janice immediately packed up their 1-year-old daughter and moved from Alaska to Fort Rucker in Alabama so he could attend flight school.

Though his initial tour consisted of piloting Black Hawks along the Korean Demilitarized Zone, Buckley went on to specialize in flying surveillance and reconnaissance aircraft for the Department of Defense, a position he refers to as his “bread and butter and true passion.”

(Even after retiring in 2015, Buckley was hired by the government to serve as a consultant for overseas recon missions. His 19th and final deployment was last fall.)

His journey, he shared, did not come without turbulence. While deployed in Colombia in 2008, Buckley learned that his middle daughter was diagnosed with leukemia. Three years of treatment paused Buckley’s career.

“She’s a healthy teenager now with all the spit and fire of one,” Buckley laughed. “But it was a tough time. I resumed working after she became well, and then I found that I was missing things like my children’s soccer games and I didn’t like being limited to catching glimpses of their lives through FaceTime.”

After 19 trips, Buckley said, it was time to hang it up. He gathered his kids and produced a map, telling them to pick a spot to settle. Buckley had been a part of the 7th Special Forces Group at Eglin Air Force Base for the better part of three years, and his “crew” had fallen in love with Northwest Florida. ← Positioned Now based in Point beneath the engine, Sam Washington, Buckley has found Buckley and that letting go of one dream his father, simply frees up the runway for Heath, conduct another. a pre-flight “My wife and I had tossed inspection of The Spirit around the idea of a sightseeing of 30A. tour,” said Buckley. “And I have always loved biplanes; I was a history major with a focus on early aviation. We came across a 1930s-design aircraft in Texas that actually featured two seats in the front cockpit for sightseeing.”

Dubbed The Spirit of 30A, Buckley’s biplane is a Ferrari-red Waco YMF-5 that carries passengers 500 “sea-salty” feet above the ground at 100 mph.

His business, Coastal Biplane, currently offers five, 20-40 minute flights from Panama City west to photography by MICHAEL BOOINI

↙ THE FAMILY THAT FLIES TOGETHER. Janice and Heath Buckley stand before The Spirit of 30A with their children, Isabella, twins Jack and Samuel and Lydia.

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THE

wave

Grayton Beach. The flights pass over longleaf pine forests, dune lakes and artificial reefs. Dolphins, turtles and the occasional shark have been spotted from above.

“This really is the purist form of flying,” Buckley said. “Helicopters and other aircraft are great, but the biplane reflects the golden years of aviation — open cockpits and stick ’n’ rudders.

There is nothing between you and nature. Being one with the elements, the salt in your face —it’s almost spiritual.”

Romantic, even. Couples often opt for Coastal Biplane’s special date night package, which includes touching down for dinner at renowned chef Jim Shirley’s 30A restaurant, The Bay, for an enchanting finale.

Buckley couldn’t be more thankful for mentors such as Shirley and his publicist, Madra McDonald, for easing his transition into the business and social media world. It may be, he jokes, scarier than spying on Colombian drug cartels.

Business dealings aside, crafting the ultimate flight experience comes naturally for the seasoned airman.

He doesn’t talk as much as your typical tour guide, not wishing to intrude upon his guests’ once-in-a-lifetime time aloft. Instead, he lets The Spirit possess you with the roar of its engine, acrobatic maneuvering and spectacular vistas.

Though he’s hosted passengers of all ages, Buckley’s favorite co-pilots, he said, will always be children. He is concerned that the world is suffering from a mass shortage of pilots: The millennials didn’t engage in aviation, resulting in a lost generation.

“It’s my mission and absolute passion to expose our youth to aviation,” said Buckley. “Not just to piloting, but to be a maintainer, mechanic or managing air traffic. There are huge opportunities out there for them, so I’m devoted to implementing STEM aviation curriculum in South Walton schools.”

With the assistance of several organizations, those plans are taking off. Buckley expects that aviation coursework will arrive by 2020.

“When I was in the military, I used to think I had the best job,” Buckley said. “But now my office is 500 feet above the most beautiful coast in the country, and I get to engross both my children and other children in flight, so I still think I have the best job.” EC

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↑ Janice and Heath Buckley share a moment in the cockpit of The Spirit of 30A. ← Heath Buckley introduces his daughter, Isabella, to the controls of his vintage biplane.

photography by MICHAEL BOOINI

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THE

wave

Lucy’s PineappleLime Sangria Pop INGREDIENTS: ➸ 1 bottle Pinot Grigio ➸ 30 oz. pineapple juice ➸ 30 oz. lemonade ➸ 3 0 oz. lemon

lime soda

➸ 1 0 oz. dry sake (or

vodka, if preferred)

➸ 2 fresh limes,

Piña Colada

squeezed

➸ 1 fresh pineapple,

cut into chunks

➸ Fresh mint leaves

ADULTSICLES

A new twist on a classic treat

by LIESEL SCHMIDT

C

lose your eyes and picture this: a favorite treat from your childhood combined with a favorite adult indulgence.

What do you get? If you’re like the vast majority of people, whatever you’ve envisioned contains alcohol because, well, adulting is hard, y’all! And who doesn’t like to take the edge off every now and again with a lively libation or two?

So, you’ve got the adult half of the equation down, but what about the kid part? Think summer. Think cool. Think refreshing. Think happiness on a stick. That’s the very essence of a popsicle, and when you add alcohol — well, need we say more?

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June–July 2019 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

“Alcoholic popsicles are fun because they bring out your inner kid, even though they’re really such an adult thing,” says Heather Kilpatrick, who co-owns and operates Lucy’s in the Square in Pensacola with her husband, Ron. Known throughout the area for their dog-friendly atmosphere and fun menu, Lucy’s boasts a large following for their sangria pops.

“Floating a pop in champagne or a cocktail makes the experience even better and captures all the goodness while the pop melts,” she explains.

Is there a trick for getting a pop that actually freezes solid instead of simply slushing out, given the low freezing point of alcohol? It’s pretty simply a matter of sticking to a formula of one ounce of alcohol to every five ounces of other liquids in the case of any alcoholic beverage that is more than 8 percent alcohol by volume. Beer, unlike hard liquors such as vodka and rum, has a low enough alcohol content that it needs no dilution, so freeze away.

DIRECTIONS:

First, make Lucy’s signature sangria. Using a mortar and pestle, muddle fresh mint and add to an empty pitcher.

Pour all liquid ingredients into the pitcher and stir together until fully mixed, then set aside.

Using a blender or food processor, create pineapple puree from the chunks and pour into popsicle molds, filling only until 1/4 filled. Next, slowly pour prepared sangria into the molds to layer the popsicle.

Freeze for a minimum of 4 hours, then remove from molds and serve as popsicles (remember to insert popsicle sticks prior to freezing) or place them in a wine glass and fill with the varietal of your choice or more sangria. photography by ALISSA ARYN PHOTOGRAPHY

PHOTO BY OKSANA_SCHMIDT / ISTOCK / GETTY IMAGES PLUS (PINEAPPLE-LIME SANGRIA POP)

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One of the great things about these adultified pops, aside from the simple fact that they’re a whole new way to enjoy a cocktail, is that the options are endless. It’s really up to you and your imagination to come up with your perfect pop. Love a mojito? Try your recipe as a pop instead and get ready to find your new favorite summer treat.

“Adult pops are great for the Florida heat — just make sure you have some kid-friendly pops, as well, because they really don’t understand when they aren’t allowed a pop!” Kilpatrick advises with a laugh.

For those times when you want a fun, chilly treat that appeals to your mature side without ticking up your blood alcohol level, try creating popsicles that use ingredients that are a little more on the sophisticated side.

It’s important to use the ingredients that provide a lot of flavor, so try making purees and juices from fresh fruits, veggies and herbs.

“We always recommend that fresh ingredients are best,” says Emma Killingsworth King, who co-owns and operates Swell Pops in Destin with her brother, Drew.

“You can always taste the difference!”

Popular for their fresh, healthy popsicles, Swell Pops’ range of offerings proves that there are no rules limiting flavor combinations. Their Avocado+Lime, Sea Salt Caramel, Mango Jalapeno, Strawberry Mint, Pina Colada and Margarita pops are highly appealing to the adult crowd. And while they might not contain alcohol, these fresh pops can be boozed up simply by soaking them in your favorite beverage.

Whether you’re looking to chill out and relax with a new spin on your favorite drink or just want a slightly more adult, yet every bit as fun, treat that calls to your inner child, try sticking it out with a popsicle and let your stresses melt away. EC

PHOTO BY ALISSA ARYN PHOTOGRAPHY

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← Nan and Jim DeStafney have infected students throughout the Pensacola area with a passion for music and have helped put instruments in their hands.

CHAMPIONS

MUSIC IS THEIR MISSION Navy retirees are instrumental to success of school programs

by THOMAS J. MONIGAN

S

oon after Jim and Nan DeStafney opened their Blues Angel Music store in August 1997, they realized there was another mission they needed to embrace.

Both are retired from the U.S. Navy. Jim served as a fighter pilot and Nan as a forensics officer. And both are lifelong musicians.

“It’s an issue of need, and there’s always been a need for music,” Nan DeStafney said. “It might be students or organizations that need instruments.”

People started seeking help from the music store named after the world famous aviators who call NAS Pensacola home and also sought to help.

‘It just started out small,” DeStafney said. “People would give us instruments that we could rehab, or they would give us a dollar here and a dollar there.”

Then Capt. Mike Denkler donated $200 by check, and the nonprofit Blues Angel Music Foundation was born in 2014.

Soon afterward, the family of Aaron Clark asked that donations be made in the name of the young violin player who had passed away.

“That changed everything,” DeStafney said. “All of a sudden, instead of having hundreds of dollars, we had thousands of dollars and were able to put ukulele programs and violin programs in schools.”

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June–July 2019 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

That wasn’t all.

“We were able to donate strings in his (Clark’s) name,” DeStafney said, “and since then it’s just grown by word of mouth. The foundation covers all the administrative costs, and when it comes to donated instruments, we can take stuff that’s been under the bed and fix all that, turn it around and put it right back out into the community.”

Dan Fugate, a salaried employee with Blues Angel Music, became the administrative director of the foundation on a volunteer basis, with no extra compensation.

“I know what music does to and for me and the way it makes me feel,” Fugate said.

“Helping to bring that to other people feels just as good.”

This summer, the foundation will hold its fifth annual free concert series, known as Blues on the Bay, at the Community Maritime Park.

Funds are generated there through the raffle tickets, hot dogs and lemonade.

Those totaled about $1,000 the first year to about $7,000 in 2018, according to DeStafney.

And the BAM Foundation has broadened its involvement to include school systems in Santa Rosa County and Baldwin County in Alabama.

Angela Barberi, the fine arts specialist for Escambia County Public Schools, knows the foundation well.

“Two years ago, the orchestra room at Workman Middle School burned to the ground (after being struck by lightning) and photography by STEPHAN VANCE

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↑ The DeStafneys stand among students at the Community Music School, which provides musical education and experiences free of charge to all who choose to attend.

they were a key partner in helping us rebuild that program,” Barberi said.

“They help us with our Music Teacher of the Year program,” Barberi said, “and they’re passionate about bringing the music and instruments to especially the underserved students. They will help us find a way to get those children into our music program.”

Another grateful beneficiary is Asher Kelly, the director of the Community Music School. It has 59 students who meet on Saturday mornings for piano, guitar and percussion classes at the Global Academy in Pensacola.

Community Music School provides free music education and access to instruments to anyone who wants to come.

“The foundation has provided us with sheet music and instruments for our students,” Kelley said. “They have helped

MEETING NEEDS

music composition portion for us, but they also pay for all of the food and awards at the art gallery reception.”

Salzman added, “We wouldn’t be able to celebrate the kids without the support of the Blues Angel Foundation. They are such huge partners for all of the parents in the community.

“They also provide intellectual support. If we’re trying to figure out how to do a program or make something work, we know we can call them and they’ll be great resources for that, too.”

Nan DeStafney did not hesitate when asked about why so many people from different generations are involved with the foundation, in one way or another.

“I think people realize that there are still people who believe in peace and love, and music as the tie that binds us all together,” she said. EC

The Blues Angel Music Foundation (bluesangelmusic.com) has donated instruments — cellos, clarinets, double basses, drumsticks, flutes, guitars, a piano, saxophones, trombones, trumpets, ukuleles, violas and violins — to a host of schools and organizations including the following:

➸ Escambia County Public

Schools Foundation ➸ Belmont Youth Band ➸ Council on Aging of West Florida ➸ J.H. Workman Middle School Orchestra ➸ Santa Rosa County School District Fine Arts

38

supplement a lot of the holes in our inventory of instruments.”

Michelle Salzman, a volunteer for the Escambia County Public Schools and PTA, has had extensive dealings with the foundation.

“We don’t have a lot of funding and a lot of resources, so the foundation supplements that by providing resources for parents and families,” Salzman said.

And these are not always monetary.

“They also give free music lessons when needed, and they loan out instruments,” Salman said. She also noted an annual national arts program known locally as “Reflections.”

Every year, several local musicians rise to the statewide level of this competition.

“It directly touches 75 or more people a year,” Salzman said. “They judge the

➸ Gulf Breeze United

Methodist Church Preschool ➸ Pensacola Community Music School ➸ Pensacola Music Teachers Association ➸ Ransom Middle School ➸ C.A. Weiss Elementary

June–July 2019 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

➸ Longleaf Elementary ➸ McArthur Elementary ➸ Baldwin County Youth

Orchestra

➸ Myrtle Grove Elementary ➸ Guitars for Vets ➸ W.H. Rhodes Middle

School ➸ Sherwood Elementary

➸ Myrtle Grove Elementary ➸ Salvation Army Band ➸ Choctaw Bay Music Club ➸ Gulf Breeze Middle School ➸ Waterfront Rescue Mission ➸ Warrington Middle School ➸ Pine Forest High School ➸ Bellview Middle School ➸ Ferry Pass Middle School

➸ Escambia County

School District

➸ Emerald Coast Honors

Orchestra

➸ Trinitas Christian School ➸ Holley-Navarre

middle School

➸ Pensacola Community

Music School

photography by STEPHAN VANCE

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ELEMENTS OF STYLE RANGING FROM THE SUBLIME TO THE MORE SUBLIME

CITIZEN OF STYLE

THE MIEN IS THE MESSAGE Erin Oden exudes professionalism

→

DRESSED FOR SUCCESS. Erin Oden’s ensemble includes a Hermès scarf, Bagatelle jacket, Bettye Mueller shoes, earrings by a Paris designer and necklaces by Sennod.

by STEVE BORNHOFT

FOR HER photography by JACQUELINE WARD IMAGES

Neon Fashion

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June–July 2019

43

panache ↙ Her clients may

wear flip-flops, but Oden dresses in ways that say she takes meetings with them seriously. Earrings from Paris, necklaces

by Sennod and Mary Beth Myrick; photo shot at 31 Governors Court in Alys Beach.

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June–July 2019 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

O

ften, Erin Oden finds herself meeting with clients clad in shorts and flipflops, maybe even a swimsuit coverup. And, almost as frequently, she will entertain comments along the line of, “Gosh, you are so dressed up.”

Oden is the owner and principal broker at Coastal Luxury, a boutique brokerage in Seacrest whose focus is Gulf-front properties from Panama City Beach to Destin — and especially along Highway 30A. “We deal with people who are shopping for second homes, investment properties or retirement homes while they are on vacation, and that’s fine,” Oden said. When they suggest she may be overdressed, she reminds them, “We’re working.”

Oden says her firm emphasizes the importance and the effect of a dress code that speaks professionalism.

“We want to send a message to our clients with our style and our wardrobe that lets them know we take our meetings with them seriously,” Oden said. “And, when you dress for a successful day, that can really affect the outcome.”

For Oden, what she calls a “sincere confidence,” one grounded in knowledge and expertise, is of critical importance to her business. “The vision of our company is rooted in client service. Only by understanding our market well can we properly serve clients and provide them with what they need to know.”

Oden gained an appreciation for a proper wardrobe and “dressing for the day” while living in Paris for six years beginning at age 10. Given the opportunity, her father, a Coca-Cola employee, opted to leave Atlanta to work overseas for a time.

“Parisian living was a great influence on me,” Oden said. “Growing up there, I would see older women riding bicycles in dresses and heels with a baguette in the basket.

While an American woman may be content to be seen in her yoga outfit all day long, a French lady never would be so attired.”

“Some wouldn’t even want it known that they exercise. The French obey lots of rules around dining and style.” photography by JACQUELINE WARD IMAGES

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↑ Oden’s sense of

style was influenced by years spent in France. Jacket from Calvin Klein, earrings from Paris market, necklaces by Sennod.



Oden’s Must-Haves ➺B lack suit —

black blazer and black pants ➺P encil skirt ➺W hite buttondown shirts ➺L ow black heels

46

Today — it’s a Friday — Oden wears jeans, ballet flats and a navy blue blazer over a red shell accessorized with a red, white and blue scarf. Somewhat casual, but still professional.

“There are key pieces that every businesswoman should have in her wardrobe, and they are items that we can all afford,” Oden said, citing a black suit as a must-have. “A black blazer and black pants or a pencil skirt. White button-down shirts.

Appropriately low black heels. Keep it simple.”

Oden said that black, navy and gray are the predominant colors in her closet. She mixes and matches pieces and rotates her options. Before leaving her house in the morning, she prefers to spend time planning her day, not deliberating about what to wear.

In France, Oden attended a private school, the American School of Paris. About half of the students there were from the United States, and the other half were students from Europe and Asia who enrolled in the school as a step toward qualifying for acceptance to an American university.

Oden returned to the U.S. on holiday breaks and spent summers in Destin. Her family had vacationed in Pensacola for years before they met a Houston couple in Paris who owned a condo in Destin. The Texans introduced Erin’s parents to the World’s Luckiest Fishing Village, and they were hooked.

They, too, bought a unit in Destin where Erin met her eventual husband, Jon.

June–July 2019 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

Returned permanently to the U.S., Oden earned a communication degree at the Panama City campus of Florida State University and, in the process, completed an internship at WJHG-TV in Panama City Beach. While she had an interest in broadcast journalism, she was committed to staying in Northwest Florida and recognized that there was only a limited opportunity to achieve success doing small market TV. She entered the world of real estate, instead, starting at a small operation in Seaside before launching her business. As an Emerald Coaster, Oden enjoys living in a small-town environment with “wonderful cooperating brokerages.”

Her clients, whom she described as “amazing and very qualified,” come primarily from Nashville, Houston, Dallas, Atlanta and New Orleans. A few are from Mississippi, and she deals with the occasional outlier from Los Angeles and St. Louis.

In marketing her business, Oden said, she has no need for a global reach, preferring a strategically targeted approach.

“History has shown us who our buyer is,” she said.

Most buyers find properties of interest to them online before consulting Oden and her team. “30A” is a popular search criterion, so much so that some buyers don’t look beyond that scenic highway.

That is, an attractive Gulf-front property located just east of the Walton-Bay county line may go overlooked because it doesn’t come up when people type “30A” into the search bar.

Given that circumstance, a concerted marketing effort may be required to bring the listing to the attention of qualified buyers.

“But it will sell,” Oden said — with sincere confidence.

After all, that property, too, would be part of what Oden calls a “matchless piece of paradise” — paradis sans pareil. EC photography by JACQUELINE WARD IMAGES

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class, meaning you won’t look as if you’ve waltzed out of a Richard Simmons exercise video.

Kristyn Hasel, manager of Pink Narcissus: A Lily Pulitzer Signature Store in Panama City Beach, is particularly psyched for the renaissance, as Pulitzer has been aboard the neon train for over half a century.

“Neon allows individuals to showcase their confidence by wearing something that is sure to turn heads,” said Hasel. “When we wear these colors, we want others to see us as fun and energetic.”

From street-cone orange to piping hot pink, ← neon comes in a rainbow of shades that can PRETTY IN PINK. Tropical one-piece be mixed and matched or stand alone. But swimsuit, courtesy before you dive into the color craze, of Pink Narcissus: consider identifying the hue that’s right A Lily Pulitzer Signature Store in Panama for you.

City Beach.

“Anyone can benefit from neon — there’s something about it that makes you feel alive and healthy,” said Theresa Barrett, owner of Affinity Boutique in Santa Rosa Beach. “Take advantage of its fluorescent properties to darken your complexion, and look as if you just had the perfect day at the beach.”

As a fair-skinned brunette, Hasel adheres to Barrett’s advice by sticking to electric blues and fuchsias that work to complement the rosy undertones of her complexion. Ladies with darker complexions have more wiggle room, as canary yellows, acid greens and stoplight reds shine against their canvas.

“The most important thing to keep in mind is that you want to create a contrast so you don’t appear washed out,” said Hasel. “And, as the fashion industry evolves, so do the opportunities for neon. Instead of just solid, bright neon tops or leggings, you can now see neon juxtaposed against a softer background.”

Wherever your neon goes, be sure to assign it to a place at which you’re comfortable with people gazing. If you’re top-heavy and would rather draw FOR HER attention to your legs, consider pairing a basic top with colorful cropped pants or shorts, and vice versa for pear-shaped ladies.

Or, simply do you. The best part of this trend is that there really aren’t any rules, just guidelines to keep it cool, chic and tasteful.

Neon fashion is back and brighter than ever “If a woman wants to go all out in neon, I suggest balancing it with clean lines and simple styles,” said

by HANNAH BURKE Hasel. “A neon yellow bodycon dress is enough of a statement without adding bells and whistles like blinding hues that afforded the decade ur relationship with ’80s fashions ruffles and sequins. I would also only pick one or two its pop and pizazz? is best classified as one of love colors to wear at a time. You can choose a solid neon New York Fashion Week’s 2019 and hate: While high-waisted dress and then accessorize with one other neon color spring and summer runways incited pants, statement jewelry and to add an extra playful pop to your outfit.” its rebirth, as models illuminated the sequins have been deemed worthy of It seems Barrett is in agreement. “Keep it simple runway with fluorescent sundresses, revival, most agree that leg warmers, shoes and street wear. or go bold — it’s all up to your personality,” she said.

Spandex and shoulder pad fads are Thankfully, neon’s new dawn “This is a look that’s for everyone, so just experiment best left in the grave.

But what about neon, the nearimbues garments with contemporary and have fun!” EC

INCANDESCENCE

O 50

June–July 2019 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

PHOTO COURTESY OF PINK NARCISSUS: A LILY PULITZER SIGNATURE STORE IN PANAMA CITY BEACH

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Iridescent opals, by luminous pearlsbeaches and glittering compose the treasure troveCoast, of handcrafted Inspired the beautiful and the gemstones relaxed environment of the Emerald and customized jewelry that Bijoux De Mer Fine Jewelry offers.

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18-karat yellow gold that are bold, elegant and unique. The shimmering, stunning allure of the sea will never wash out with a new wave of trends, making these pieces timeless and everlasting.

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VANELI MAGA Slide into summer with this delicately beaded sandal that sparkles with fun. The neutral 1. shade and low, architectural heel metallic LARIAT STYLE make it perfect for any outfit; pair it with your favorite dress, orLayer add polish NECKLACE on to boyfriend jeans of micro-faceted andstrands a tee. $129.95 gold pyrite and freshwater 2. baroque pearls. Shown as set ofTREZZA three. $310 each SCALA No cowboys required — this drifter is built for 2. picnics on the beach. This casual-chic hat weaves together beautiful, SWIMMING FISHY natural raffia with summery colors to top off any outfit. $64.95 NECKLACE Handcarved Australian boulder 3. opal with diamond bubbles VIP set inLARGE 18k yellow HAMMITT VIPgold. is the$3,850 definition of living large with this oversized clutch. It will easily carry you from daySWIMMING to night — asFISHY a sophisticated clutch or an EARRINGS easy cross body.

Glimmering rivulets are a Handsignature Hammitt, and the brushed gold carved of Australian boulder opals with diamond hardware doesn’t disappoint. $375 accents set in 18k yellow 4. gold. $3,750 TONI PONS FONDA 3. the look of the season. Classic espadrille Meet styling is combined with subtle sequins and RUFFLE CUFF Large Australian boulder opal known in fashion a flat-platform silhouette, surrounded by emeralds, circles as the “flatform.”

You might just want to green tsavorites, ditch those sneakersperidot, for this gem. $134.95 blue sapphires and mabe 5. pearls set in 18k yellow gold bi-metal. $6,580 L SPACE VALENTINA DRESS L Space is a sun-kissed, California brand that 4. fit is everything, and they specialize believes EMERALD COAST in effortless styling.

They fashioned this confection with a subtle nod to the on-trend DREAMING ’90s, but its sweet, swingy look will make it Stunning EARRINGS your go-to dress forand years to come. $123 Australian opals emeralds set in 18k yellow 6. gold. $5,800 COFI BAILEY BUCKET BAG Cofi5.is all about the leather. The unique prints andOPAL shimmering RINGSmetallics Ethiopianaren’t bad either.

Functional, practicalby and oh-so-chic, this opals surrounded white cross-body bag has it all — plenty of sapphiresbucket set in oxidized pockets keep left youto organized silver.toFrom right: and snaps and $1,070 zips$1,420, to keep$1,530, you safe! $275

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THE MARKET SHOPS AT SANDESTIN ➺ Bijoux De Mer Fine Jewelry 9375 U.S. HIGHWAY 98 W., MIRAMAR BEACH ➺4495 Sunset Shoes Furling Lane, Suite 170, DESTIN | (850) 830-5465 |(850) bijouxdemer.com 837-5466

June–July 2019 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

HARBORWALK VILLAGE

TOWN SQUARE SHOES AT SEASIDE

34 HARBOR BLVD., #134, DESTIN (850) 424-5786

20 CENTRAL SQUARE, SEASIDE (850) 399-4014

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panache THE COPPER CLOSET

Style Reborn ➸ Nearly Dead Threads fans

rejoice! The Pensacola-based vintage clothing retailer and oddities outlet has opened a second location directly across the street from its flagship store. Aptly named NEARLY DEAD THREADS II, the store will be a “men’s

den” for dudes that dig graphic tees, retro gaming and punk rock.

30Avenue at Inlet Beach’s 30 A OLIVE OIL CO. offers a plethora of flavor-infused oils and vinegar, as well as gourmet sea salts, local honey and more. ➸ Rather than flagging

down the ever-elusive ice cream truck, you can nurse your sugar craving at SWELL POPS, a gourmet popsicle truck serving the Destin area. Epicurean pops range in flavor from cookies n’ cream and salted caramel to avocado-lime and jalapeño.

Summer Staples Nearly Dead Threads II

➸ Coast into CURRENTS

RESALE & BOUTIQUE for

both new and barely used consignment essentials from designers including Kate Spade, Calvin Klein, Lilly Pulitzer and Trina Turk. The recently opened Destin store also features a signature line of colorful coastal apparel and accessories.

➸ After recovering from

Hurricane Michael, THE

SALT SHED & COMPANY

in Panama City Beach is back and open for business.

Whether you’re planning a summer garden, or seeking to evoke the spirit of the season indoors, the Salt Shed is poised to accommodate your needs with potted plants and seeds, coastal furniture and home décor.

➸ THE LITTLE MUSTARD

by HANNAH BURKE

Renowned for its under $45 boutique styles, The Copper Closet has launched its newest location in Destin Commons.

With affordable and fashion-forward apparel, swimwear and accessories, The Copper Closet sees to it that you ride out the dog days in style.

BEACH CLUB APP

store has risen from the rubble of Hurricane Michael into an all new, expanded shopping experience.

Located in Historic Downtown Panama City, the Little Mustard Seed offers furniture restoration and customization, charming, rustic home goods and boutique items.

Snacktime ➸ Grilling season is upon

us, and what better way to marinade meat and dress your sides than with traditionally crafted olive oil and balsamic vinegar?

The Salt Shed & Company

➸ Offering specialty facials,

microdermabrasion and body waxing services, WINK LASH & FACIAL SPA is your ticket to smooth skin and a sultry, summer glow. Now open in Pensacola, Wink offers both classic eyelash extension and filling services to top off your look.

You’ve finally settled on the sand, cool drink in hand, and not a care in the world … until the familiar sting from sunning reminds you that you neglected to pack your Coppertone.

THE BEACH CLUB APP, now servicing the 30A market, employs the convenience of a one-click technology system, a la Uber or iTunes, in delivering everything from sunscreen and six-packs to paddleboards and beach chairs right to your feet. Download the app for free, register your account and payment method, and Beach Club will detect your location. The on-demand marketplace will include categories for local vendors, entertainment venues, rental properties and more to maximize the 30A experience for both the first-time visitor and longtime local.

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June–July 2019 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

PHOTOS COURETSY OF THE COPPER CLOSET, NEARLY DEAD THREADS & ODDITIES & THE SALT SHED

 WHAT’S IN STORE? A roundup of retail happenings throughout the Emerald Coast

SEED gift shop and furniture

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June–July 2019

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PROMOTION PROMOTION

SUNSET SHOES SUNNY DAYS IN SANDESTIN Stepping into the Sunset

It’s beginningInspired to heat up, the perfect time to coolthe offrelaxed with bright, colorful summer-ready looks from Sandestin byso theit’sbeautiful beaches and environment of the Emerald Coast, Family Retail Shops at The Village of Baytowne Wharf. Shop Barefoot Princess, Island Clothiers, Coconut Kidz and comfort and easygoing style have always been a hallmark of the Sunset Shoes collections.

Sandestin Clothing Company for warm-weather essentials to make the most of your sunny days.

Take a look at some of these unique products that will make you stand out from the crowd.

2

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VANELI MAGA Slide into summer with this delicately beaded sandal that sparkles with fun. The neutral metallic shade and low, architectural heel make it perfect for any outfit; pair it with your 1. favorite dress, or add polish to boyfriend jeans LILLY POOLSIDE and a PULITZER tee. $129.95 RAFFIA HAT A classic fedora with a pop of color. With the adjustable 2. straps, they are great for everyone.

SCALA TREZZA ($48) No cowboys required — this drifter is built for picnics on the beach. This casual-chic hat 2. weaves together beautiful, natural raffia with WABOBA WATER BOUNCING summery colors top off any outfit. $64.95 BALLS Add sometomagic into your vacation. These water balls not only 3 3. across the waves but change glide HAMMITT colors once VIP theyLARGE hit the water. ($11) VIP is the definition of living large with this oversized clutch. It will easily carry you from 3. day to nightVINES — as aBEACH sophisticated VINEYARD HUTS clutch or an easy cross body.These Glimmering CHAPPY TRUNKS quick- rivulets are a signature of Hammitt, gold drying fabric trunks areand surethe to brushed help hardware doesn’t disappoint.a beach $375 you keep up with everything day has in store for you. ($89.50)

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TONI PONS FONDA SUNNYLIFE Our espadrille Meet the lookKIDS of theSUNNIES season. Classic little fashionistas willwith be standing tall and styling is combined subtle sequins in these sunnies. ($8) a flat-platform silhouette, known in fashion circles as the “flatform.” You might just want to 5. ditch those sneakers for this gem. $134.95 LILLY PULITZER MCKIM SANDAL The 5. perfect sandal to keep a little sophistication and styleDRESS in every L SPACE VALENTINA outfit. ($39) L Space is a sun-kissed, California brand that believes fit is everything, and they specialize 6. in effortless styling. They fashioned this LILLY PULITZER TOTE confection with aLAGOON subtle nod to the on-trend From the pool to theswingy beach,look thiswill totemake it ’90s, but its sweet, is a vacation must-have.

Just add $123 your go-to dress for years to come. your towel and sunscreen, and you are ready to go. ($56)

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COFI BAILEY BUCKET BAG Cofi is all about the leather. The unique prints and shimmering metallics aren’t bad either.

Functional, practical and oh-so-chic, this cross-body bucket bag has it all — plenty of pockets to keep you organized and snaps and zips to keep you safe! $275

GO GO 56

Retail Shops ➺ Sandestin FamilyTHE HARBORWALK VILLAGE MARKET SHOPS AT SANDESTIN BAREFOOT PRINCESS, ISLAND CLOTHIERS, COCONUT KIDZ BEACH AND SANDESTIN CLOTHING COMPANY 9375 U.S. HIGHWAY 98 W., MIRAMAR 34 HARBOR BLVD., #134, DESTIN ➺THE Sunset Shoes VILLAGE OF BAYTOWNE WHARF, 9300 EMERALD COAST (850) PARKWAY 837-5466 | (850) 351-1806 (850) 424-5786

June–July 2019 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

TOWN SQUARE SHOES AT SEASIDE 20 CENTRAL SQUARE, SEASIDE (850) 399-4014

FULL SERVICE SALON AND SPA colors • cuts • nails • skin care special occasion makeup • wedding specialists

12115 Panama City Beach Pkwy, Panama City Beach, FL 32407 | (850) 588-7771 | projectstylesalon.com EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

June–July 2019

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SPONSORED REPORT

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June–July 2019 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

SPONSORED REPORT

dad BOD A

h, 25. The peak of a man’s strength and his physique at its finest!

After 25, aging is a continuous downward spiral. Our muscle mass tends to diminish, the calories needed each day decreases, and the cushion around the waist steadily grows.

Our job likely becomes more mental and less physical. Who’s going to put a 22-year-old in charge of anything important?

At 35, you have learned your job so well that your company promotes you into management.

Consequently, you are less active and have frequent meetings with clients and other managers that feature food. And since you are making more money, you can afford fancier food that has more calories.

Finally, eating with the kids makes the high-calorie diet worse by adding foods rich in carbohydrates and fats like french fries and macaroni and cheese.

Some guys are genetically lucky and can eat whatever and

whenever, and they still remain thin. But, that is not the norm.

Remember those love handles that your older male relatives sported at the beach that you said you would never have?

Now you have them. You saw your future self, but you did not think those love handles would happen to you.

Instead of displaying the family spare tire, consider liposuction to improve the fit of your clothes and the shape of your physique. Liposuction works well for those areas that do not respond to diet and exercise and are genetic in nature.

Cut out the kid food. No sugar or cream in your beverages — there are 450 calories in a margarita, 590 calories in a chocolate caramel macchiato.

Eat the low fat protein (filet versus ribeye, grilled chicken not fried). And finally, avoid pasta, rice and potatoes. After you lose that weight, those bulges that are genetic in nature or do not go away can be treated with liposuction.

PLASTIC SURGERY IS NOT JUST FOR WOMEN! Destin Plastic Surgery offers a full range of professional cosmetic treatments and procedures for men, including but not limited to: BOTOX Cosmetic Hair Transplant Surgery  Brow Lift  Laser Hair Removal  Eyelid Surgery  Facelift  Male Breast Reduction  Liposuction  

Contact Dr. Burden and his team at ThePlasticDoc.com to schedule a consultation.

DR. BURDEN

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HOW DO YOU FOOW? NOW OPEN FOR LUNCH & DINNER Happy Hour 3–7 PM Daily Seasonal Hours Apply

FOOW30A.COM

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(850) 534-5050

June–July 2019 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

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34 Gol d e n rod Ci rcl e , Santa Ros a Be ach , FL 3 24 59

gastro&gusto JUN/JUL 2019

DINING, IMBIBING AND LIVING LIFE TO THE FULLEST

DINING OUT

WHAT AN ICE-CREAM SCREAM

Extravagant milkshakes are becoming a social media sensation

↗ An intimidating concoction called The Unicorn features cotton candy ice cream topped with whipped cream, marshmallow cream, cotton candy clouds, a sour rainbow candy and a sugar cone horn.

DINING IN photography by MICHAEL BOOINI

by HANNAH BURKE

Gluten-free Diet

|| LIBATIONS

Stinky’s Ultimate Bloody Mary

|| DINING GUIDE

See Page 167

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gastro & gusto

← Felix Booini’s eyes are almost as big as the prize — a massive Unicorn shake served up by The Yard at Pier Park in Panama City Beach.

I

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CHELSEA DAY HOFFMAN

n Quentin Tarantino’s film, “Pulp Fiction,” Vincent Vega and Mia Wallace share a meal at Jack Rabbit Slim’s diner before their iconic dance number.

Mia Wallace decides to top off her Durward Kirby Burger with the “Five Dollar Shake.”

"Did you just order a five-dollar shake?” asks a bewildered Vega. “A shake — that’s milk and ice cream.”

“Last I heard,” comes Wallace’s retort.

Vega turns to the waiter. “Five dollars, and you don’t put bourbon in it or nothing?”

Uh, no.

But at The Yard Milkshake Bar, where a pint-size shake runs $13 dollars a pop, abundant combinations of cookie dough and confectionary toppings ensure that even the parsimonious Vegas of the world get enough bang for the buck. photography by MICHAEL BOOINI

↑ Ample indoor seating at The Yard Milkshake Bar prevents meltdowns during the consumption process which, well, takes a while.

At The Yard, generous slices of cheesecake, whole cupcakes and soft pretzel sticks sit atop thrones of whipped cream. The body of the shake, contained in chocolate-coated, souvenir mason jars, is made up of your choice from among 30 Hershey’s ice cream flavors comingled with peanut butter cups, frosted animal cookies and fruit loops and such.

The finished product is a saccharine sculpture worthy of the MOMA. After all, owner Chelsea Green is an artist at heart.

“Growing up, I always knew I wanted to work creatively,” Green said. “It just so happened that ice cream was the best way to express that.”

The idea came about in 2017, when Green, who operated an ice cream shop in Gulf Shores, Alabama, with her mother, received an opportunity to move the business into a new and larger storefront.

“The space was in uptown Gulf Shores, where there’s less tourists and more locals,” Green recalled. “There are tons of ice cream places around, so we wanted to do something extravagant. I had seen some crazy milkshakes on Pinterest, so we thought that would be something unique for the locals to enjoy.”

Employing what she learned as a marketing student at the University of

South Alabama, Green launched The Yard primarily through social media. She posted pictures of her grandiose shakes on Instagram, boosted posts on Facebook and attracted a big crowd on opening day.

A day later, the crowd size doubled. On Day 3, the line was well out the door.

“I remember my sister-in-law calling to tell me how many people were posting Instagram stories about The Yard,” Green said. “That’s still one of my favorite parts of the business: sifting through all the pictures people tag us in online.”

Green, who co-owns The Yard with husband Logan, say they have no doubt that the “Instaworthy” aspect of the shakes has played a significant role in their success. The bar features a 3-D, LED light-studded logo sign, which frequently appears in the background of #theyardmilkshakebar posts.

“I honestly think that’s the biggest part of The Yard experience,” laughed Green.

“Everyone wants to get that perfect picture.”

One of the hottest shakes shot this summer was “The Mermaid,” which features birthday cake ice cream inside a blue marshmallow cream-dipped jar. A rock candy stick breeches the “sea foam” whipped cream, along with

pastel sprinkles and a white chocolate mermaid tail. And, of course, customers are encouraged to adorn The Mermaid with additional accoutrements.

Most especially, cookie dough.

“We make our cookie dough without eggs so it’s perfectly safe to consume raw,” Green explained. Among seasonal offerings last winter, mint bark dough was frequently coupled with brownie batter ice cream. In fact, business went so well during the “offseason” that the Greens secured a business location at Pier Park in Panama City Beach.

“My husband and I both come from entrepreneurial families,” Green said. “His father is an electrician and my dad owns a convenience store. But, Logan is braver than I am. He was definitely the one to push us into a new city. It made sense when he pointed out the similarities between Gulf Shores and PCB.” The Yard at Pier Park boasts a more spacious location, offering families plenty of room to snap photos of their creations. The Greens have also implemented a wash-off station, where you can scrub the remaining salted caramel, fudge and chocolate-coated bacon from your jar and take it home.

EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

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gastro & gusto DESTIN CHARITY WINE A U C T I O N F O U N D AT I O N

PRESENTS

OCTOBER 24-26

2019

TICKETS ON SALE JULY 1 www.HarvestWineandFood.com

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THE YARD MILKSHAKE BAR

PHOTO BY MICHAEL BOOINI

WATERCOLOR, FL

“Every glass is screen-printed with our logo and completely dishwasher safe,” said Green. “It’s always touching to see people tag us online when they’re using their jars at home. We don’t make much money off that, but we want people to have something to remember us by.”

A third location is now open in Fairhope, Alabama, and many customers have inquired about opening a Yard in their home state. Green says that franchising is something they’re open to, and recently included a section on her website (theyardmilkshakebar.com) with licensing details.

“One of the greatest parts about this has been getting to know our employees and hearing that they want to grow with us,” Green said. “There are those who are already hoping to move to a new city and open their own Sat-Sun Noon–10 p.m.

Mon-Fri Noon–9 p.m. location someday. We 15801 L.C Hilton Jr. Dr. #110 call it their business, too, Panama City Beach so it really does feel like (850) 708-3226 theyardmilkshakebar.com we’re all on this journey together.” EC

Capt.on Dave’s the

SERVING LOCAL FLORIDA SEAFOOD AND STEAKS Dinner 4pm UNTIL …

For more information visit captdavesonthegulf.com

Gulf Cel

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Enjoy cocktails on the deck for sunset Happy Hour: 4–6pm Open 6 days a week (closed Tuesdays) Live Music

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Casual Gulf Front Dining. The locals’ favorite since 1968!

3796 Scenic Hwy 98, Destin | 850.837.2627 | captdavesonthegulf.com

The Tradition Continues Best Italian 2013, 2014, 2015, 2018 Best Restaurant Okaloosa County 2013, 2014, 2016, 2017, 2018 Best Service, Food & Beverage 2015 Best Locally Owned Restaurant 2017 Mama Clemenza’s | 12273 Emerald Coast Pkwy, Miramar Beach 850.424.3157 | mamaclemenzas.com

Best Brunch 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2017, 2018 Best Restaurant in Walton County 2017 Best Breakfast 2018

Clemenza’s At Uptown Station | 75 Eglin Pkwy, Fort Walton Beach 850.243.0707 | clemenzasatuptown.com

EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

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gastro & gusto

DINING IN

A HEALTHY ADJUSTMENT

Shopping, cooking and surviving on a gluten-free diet

by KATE PIERSON

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June–July 2019 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

PHOTOS BY ZELENO / ISTOCK / GETTY IMAGES PLUS AND COURTESY OF INSTANTPOT.COM

A

s I turn into the parking lot of my neighborhood Publix, I begin my “pep talk.”

This internal monologue encourages me to stay focused, to not get discouraged and to not cave for the cookies. Cooking and baking have never been my forte, but I never thought the challenge of grocery shopping for a broke 22-year-old could get any more difficult until I was diagnosed with Hashimoto’s, a thyroid disorder, and polycystic ovary syndrome, or PCOS. Both conditions attack my endocrine system, and therefore my body has a difficult time with insulin. My endocrinologist and gynecologist said medication wouldn’t be enough and that I’d have to change my diet.

They recommended cutting all processed foods. And because gluten worsens the body’s resistance to insulin, they recommended that I eliminate gluten from my diet.

This doesn’t mean that I am allergic to gluten. I could have stayed in my gluten-filled ways but at a price: severe bloating, fatigue, weight gain and other unattractive symptoms.

In changing to a gluten-free diet, I faced difficulty from the start, including: Eating got more expensive. It’s true: It’s expensive to eat healthily. Instead of settling for sandwich fixings or frozen pizza, I had to buy far pricier food, and I had to cook.

No more cereal, no more bagels with cream cheese, no more pizza rolls. Instead, I started spending way more time in the grocery store buying salmon, lean ground turkey and tons of produce. When I do go for trail mix or snack-like products, the GreenWise brand has become my new costly best friend.

← Garlic Shrimp with Quinoa Found on Pinterest via Well Plated by Erin INGREDIENTS

➸ 4 teaspoons extra-virgin olive oil — divided ➸ 1 pound raw tail-on shrimp — 26–30 count, peeled and deveined ➸ 1 teaspoon kosher salt — divided ➸½ teaspoon chili powder — divided ➸ ⅓ cup finely chopped yellow onion — about half of 1 small onion ➸ 3 cloves garlic — minced (about 1 tablespoon) ➸ 1 cup uncooked Bob’s Red Mill Quinoa ➸ ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper ➸ 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth ➸ 1 large lemon ➸ 3 tablespoons fresh parsley — plus additional for serving

↑ Honey Sesame Seared Salmon Found on Pinterest via Delicious Obsessions by Jessica Espinoza INGREDIENTS

➸ 2 –3 pounds salmon fillets ➸ ¼ cup coconut aminos ➸ ¼ cup sesame oil ➸ 1 lemon, juiced ➸ 2 tbsp. honey

INSTRUCTIONS

➸ Toasted sesame oil for drizzling before serving ➸ Diced green onions of chives for serving ➸ Toasted sesame seeds for serving

INSTRUCTIONS

Mix all of the marinade ingredients together until smooth. Place the salmon fillets in a Ziploc bag or a large glass dish (I use my large Pyrex casserole dish, which has a lid). Pour the marinade over the salmon and let sit in the fridge for a few hours or overnight. When you’re ready to cook the salmon, heat a skillet, frying pan or cast iron pan (I use cast iron) over medium heat. Add a tablespoon or two of coconut oil. Place the salmon in the pan, skin side down. The salmon should sizzle when it hits the pan and this will sear the skin. Cook skin side down for 2–3 minutes and then flip the salmon. Pour the remaining marinade in the pan, lower the heat to medium-low, and cook the salmon for 3–5 minutes or until done. Salmon will be done when it flakes with a fork. Serve with fresh chopped chives or green onions, toasted sesame seeds and a drizzle of toasted sesame oil.

NOTE: Cooking time will vary, depending on the thickness of your salmon fillet.

PHOTOS BY MARIANVEJCIK / ISTOCK / GETTY IMAGES PLUS AND COURTESY OF WELL PLATED BY ERIN

In a large nonstick skillet with a tight-fitting lid, heat 2 teaspoons of the olive oil over mediumhigh heat. Add the shrimp, then sprinkle with ½ teaspoon salt and ¼ teaspoon chili powder.

Sauté just until the shrimp are pink and cooked through, about 3 minutes. Immediately remove the shrimp to a plate so they do not overcook.

Heat the remaining 2 teaspoons olive oil in the same skillet, then add the onion. Let cook until the onion begins to soften, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and cook just until fragrant, about 30 seconds.

Add the quinoa, cayenne, and remaining ½ teaspoon salt and ¼ teaspoon chili powder. Stir to coat the quinoa with the oil and let brown for 2 minutes.

Pour in the chicken stock, then increase the heat to high and bring the broth to a boil. Once boiling, cover and reduce the heat to a simmer. Let simmer until the quinoa is tender, 12 to 15 minutes. Uncover and fluff with a fork.

Zest the lemon directly into the pan, then juice the lemon and add the lemon juice and parsley to the skillet as well.

Toss to combine, then top with the reserved shrimp. Sprinkle with additional fresh parsley.

Serve warm.

➸ 1” knob of ginger, finely minced, OR 1 tsp. dried ginger powder ➸ 2 cloves of garlic, minced, OR ¼ tsp. garlic powder ➸C oconut oil for searing

Getting creative with meals. When I started my new diet, I found myself rotating among the same three or four meals every night. That was a result of my pickiness as an eater and my lack of familiarity with where gluten was hiding. For example, some don’t know that soy sauce contains gluten. Now that I’m more experienced on the topic, I feel more freedom to make new recipies.

Increased appetite. Because I am not eating as many starches and carbs, I sometimes found myself hungrier than ever. This has caused me to find other sources of protein and increase my protein intake so that I feel more satisfied.

Change of lifestyle. I used to love

going out to eat, but it immediately became more of a hassle. A lot of restaurants are coming out with glutenfree substitutions or menu options, but for the places that don’t, I sometimes find myself in a situation where an entree might be gluten-free, but it depends on how it’s prepared and whether it contains soy. When confronted with this ambiguity, I go for a salad.

It has been three years since I went “gluten free.” Now 25, I am happy to report that I have since mastered this new lifestyle.

Enjoy these two recipes of my favorite gluten-free meals to cook at home on a Sunday night or a Friday date night. EC

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Ultimate Bloody Mary

LIBATIONS

EYE-OPENING ARTWORK

In a pint glass that has the rim salted with seafood seasoning, combine: ➸ 2½ ounces Svedka Vodka ➸ Stinky’s House Bloody Mary Mix

Stinky’s makes the ultimate Bloody Mary

Garnish with: ➸ 1 “healthy piece” of celery ➸ 1 poached shrimp ➸ 1 pickled green bean ➸ 1 piece of pickled okra ➸ 1 wedge of lemon ➸ 1 wedge of lime ➸ Several queen pimento olives

by THOMAS J. MONIGAN

M

issy Lannie smiles after making a signature cocktail — the Ultimate Bloody Mary — at Stinky’s Fish Camp on Highway 30A in Walton County.

“I like to tell people, ‘If I had a dollar for every time someone told me it’s a meal in itself, I could retire,’” Lannie said. “It is ordered all throughout the day. I wonder sometimes if it really has been a meal for some. It has definitely gained a reputation along 30A.” During peak season, Lannie estimated she makes “between 30 and 50 a day.”

“On a Sunday brunch, forget about it,” she added with a chuckle.

Lannie grew up in Memphis, and she’s been living in Santa Rosa Beach and working at Stinky’s for the past seven years. So, what brought her here?

“Have you seen what’s across the street?” she replied, referring to the Gulf of Mexico. “I was coming here for years before I moved.”

Meeting the demand for an extraordinary Bloody Mary requires preparation.

“We like to set ourselves up for success,” Lannie said, “so especially on Sundays, we have everything set out and ready to go. It’s fun building them — they’re a little piece of art in a glass.”

Are people surprised by the creation?

“They are,” Lannie said. “It’s not uncommon to sell one, and when it’s

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Stinky’s House Bloody Mary Mix

carried out to the dining room, people see it and ask, ‘What’s that drink?’ Once one goes out, usually several more follow.”

Her favorite part of this unique cocktail?

“Well, the shrimp, of course,” Lannie replied with a trademark smile. “I think it’s one of the things that makes it stand out a little bit more. The pickled green beans and okra are really good, too. I really like the green beans. They’ve just got a nice spice to them.”

Chef Jim Richard, a native of Lafayette, Louisiana, is the founder of Stinky’s Fish Camp. It’s his family recipe for the Bloody Mary mix that helps to make it “Ultimate.” And he helped come up with the company motto: “With a name like Stinky’s, it better be good.” EC

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From a Richard Family recipe: ➸ Tomatoes, smoked ➸ Onion ➸ Chipotle peppers ➸ Cucumber ➸ Horseradish ➸ Garlic ➸ Lea & Perrins Worcestershire Sauce ➸ Green Tabasco Sauce ➸ Crystal Hot Sauce ➸ Salt and sugar ➸ Black pepper ➸ Uncle Duke’s Geaux Jus ➸ Pickling liquid ➸ Fresh lemon and lime juice (Amounts of each are a family secret, and the family name is pronounced “Ri-shard.”)

photography by MICHAEL BOOINI

3 Locally Owned Restaurants 3 Different Experiences ALL BY THE SAME CULINARY PROFESSIONALS

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Restaurant Spotlight

Fat Clemenza's “THE FOOD AND ATMOSPHERE TAKE YOU BACK IN TIME TO WHEN LIFE WAS SIMPLER,” said managing partner Dominic Damiano. “We specialize in providing great service and have a flair for remembering customers and taking care of their needs.”

They remember their customers because many of them are repeat offenders

visiting often to please their palates with authentic cuisine, much of which is fresh from Italy. Olive oils, plum tomatoes, sheet pasta and flour are shipped from Naples, and sausage arrives from Chicago twice a week. Maintaining quality and consistency is essential as they want customers to receive top-notch service every visit.

The staff takes great care and attention to make customers feel like a part of the community they have echoed.

Family values and traditions seem to seep through the walls welcoming each guest, allowing them to relax, enjoy a sit-down meal and be transported to another time and place. At this popular restaurant, reservations are recommended.

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PHOTOS BY CHASE YAKABOSKI

partners grew up in a bustling and vibrant neighborhood bursting with an ethnic Italian culture. While they adore the beaches and sunshine, they greatly missed the welcoming neighborhood of their youth. They sought to emulate the Italian neighborhoods where they grew up in Chicago, New York and Sicily. Through warm lighting, Old-World brick ovens and black-and-white family photos lining the walls, they have succeeded in bringing a slice of Italy to the coast.

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Tatem Tietgen Manager, Bruster’s Real Ice Cream

What are some of your most popular ice cream flavors? Bruster’s has hundreds of flavors to choose from. I would have to say some of the most popular flavors would be Sea Salt Caramel, Chocolate Raspberry Truffle, Chocolate Peanut Butter Buckeye and Key Lime Pie. What’s the most important item in the kitchen? Sprinkles and the great employees!

What makes eating Bruster’s ice cream so special? We actually make the ice cream on-site daily. That’s 50-70 buckets of ice cream made in store daily.

Why is Bruster’s a unique place to work? What really makes it special is most of our customers are from out of

town and come to Destin for vacation.

This means they stay in the area for weeks at a time. During these months, I have the same families come up nightly to get their fix of Bruster’s.

How would you describe the atmosphere of Bruster’s? Bruster’s is a tasteful, fun, energetic, vibrant atmosphere.

What do you hope customers experience when visiting Bruster’s?

In my opinion, I just hope everyone leaves full, satisfied and happy with a little sugar rush. I know we’ve done our jobs when you’re laughing and dancing with the employees as the line is out the door, and when I hear everyone laughing with ice cream dripping from their hands and faces.

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Mimmo La Innusa Owner, Mimmo’s Ristorante Italiano

How would you describe your cuisine?

I would say traditional authentic Italian cuisine. We use the best and freshest ingredients. All sauces, breads, dressings, desserts, brick oven pizzas and so much more are homemade. We try to bring a little taste of Italy to every dish.

What is your favorite dish and why?

Pasta Carbonara because I love the flavor of the smoked pancetta and the richness of the cream sauce. However, a close second, is the lasagna. The Bolognese sauce reminds me of Sundays at my grandparents house cooking and enjoying time with the whole family.

What made you want to pursue this career? L ooking back, I would say I was about 10 years old. Growing up in Sicily with a huge Italian family, we spent a lot of time in the kitchen. I loved watching

What is your philosophy? With hard work and perseverance, you can make your dreams a reality. Stay humble and be grateful for your blessings.

What is the most important item in the kitchen? My team. They make everything come together and run smoothly. Without them, we would not be where we are today.

What inspires/influences your cuisine? My family, heritage and most of all my grandmother. She taught me that the simplest ingredients can make the best meals.

What does the future hold?

We are expanding and building another location on 30A Highway in Blue Mountain Beach. I celebrate my sixth anniversary of opening Mimmo’s in July, and I’m thankful for the local support throughout the years.

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How do you measure your success?

By being considered a local favorite. I love looking around and seeing a full restaurant of familiar faces and watching everyone have a great time.

my grandparents, aunts and uncles creating the best meals for our family and friends.

I saw how food really brings everyone together. So, I decided to watch and learn. I knew then I wanted to explore an opportunity in the culinary world.

979 Hwy 98 E Ste 5 Destin (850) 460-7353 EatMimmos.com

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Chef Jim Shirah

202 Harbor Blvd.

Destin {850) 837-7525 DestinSeafood.com

Executive Chef, Dewey Destin

How would you describe the cuisine?

The best way to describe the cuisine here at Dewey’s on the Harbor is a simple Southern coastal cuisine.

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What is your favorite dish and why? I have multiple favorites: crab claws, seared scallops and fresh Gulf fish fried in corn meal with cheese grits. They are never a disappointment.

What is your philosophy? The word “can’t” is not in my vocabulary — if there’s a will there’s a way. And, always treat others the way you would like to be treated.

What is the most important item in the kitchen? There is more than one important thing in the kitchen. For instance, fresh quality food and teamwork! If you don’t have these, you may as well start from scratch.

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cuisine and sauces. The seasons also influence my ideas. I love traditional dishes that I can put a spin on. Sometimes, even colors inspire me. I go through different phases of inspiration, which have proven to be beneficial.

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inspired by my heritage and training. Having grown up on the Gulf Coast, I learned to cook many traditional Florida seafood dishes. In culinary school, I spent time in France, which gave me exposure to European

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How do you measure your success? I measure my success by customer satisfaction.

We have regular and return customers that

have been coming to Dewey’s for years. Our staff has grown, and we get busier every year. I like that I am able to educate people and our youth.

850-269-2920

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2008 - Best Italian 2009 - Best Pizza 2010 - Best Pizza & Best Chef 2011 - Best Pizza, Best Italian & Best Chef 2012 - Best Italian 2013 - Best Pizza & Best Walton Restaurant 2014 - Best Pizza, Best Walton Restaurant & Best Chef 2015 - Best Pizza 2016 - Best Pizza 2017 - Best Pizza & Best Chef 2018 - Best Pizza

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Brooke Parkhurst and Chef James Briscione yielded to a homing instinct and their love for the Gulf of Mexico and traded the Big Apple for the Emerald Coast.

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Culinary HOMECOMING

JAMES BRISCIONE AND BROOKE PARKHURST COMBINE TALENTS IN CREATING A GREAT SOUTHERN RESTAURANT story by KARI C. BARLOW // photography by MATTHEW COUGHLIN

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C

CELEBRITY CHEF JAMES BRISCIONE AND HIS WIFE AND BUSINESS PARTNER

Brooke Parkhurst have traded the bright lights of New York City for the laidback beaches of the Emerald Coast — and they couldn’t be happier.

In July 2018, this culinary powerhouse pulled up stakes in Manhattan, where both had worked as instructors at the Institute of Culinary Education, and returned to their hometown of Pensacola.

“Brooke and I have been so impressed with the way downtown Pensacola has grown and developed,” said Briscione, the first two-time “Chopped” champion and one of People Magazine’s “Sexiest Chefs Alive” in 2016. “It is a vibrant community that we really wanted to become a part of.”

Their plan was both straightforward and ambitious — contribute to the ongoing resurgence of the city’s historic downtown district by opening a new Italian restaurant. Call it Angelena’s, set up shop at the corner of Intendencia and Jefferson streets and serve rustic Italian fare with fine touches.

Briscione would lend his considerable cooking chops to the role of executive chef, and Parkhurst — an accomplished writer, food blogger and cook in her own right — would serve as wine director and director of marketing.

“We thought long and hard about moving back to Pensacola,” said Parkhurst, who has written two cookbooks with Briscione: Just Married & Cooking in 2011 and The Flavor Matrix in 2018. “To partner with Quint and Rishy Studer, Jean-Pierre N’Dione and the Merrill brothers was too good of an opportunity to pass up. It was the perfect set of circumstances of the right people coming together at the right time.”

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Dishes at Angelena’s include spaghetti carbonara, served here with a Tuscan kale Caesar salad.

The Italian Way

Angelena’s is the latest addition to Great Southern Restaurants, joining multiple sister businesses including The Fish House, Jackson’s Steakhouse, Atlas Oyster Bar and Five Sisters Blues Café. It features cuisine from the fields of Tuscany, the ancient streets of Rome and the rugged coastline of Campania. A wood-burning oven, which turns out pizza, baked pasta, whole-roasted fish and more, is the heart of the restaurant while an Old World marble-topped, horseshoe-shaped bar fills an entire corner.

“The bar’s absolutely going to be that place to see and be seen,” said Briscione, who also penned The Great Cook in 2015.

“Hopefully, everyone will come by after work or come sample some great Italian wine and enjoy some snacks before going to see a show.”

For Briscione, who got his start cooking at Chef Frank Stitt’s Italian restaurant, Bottega, in Birmingham, Alabama, and for Parkhurst, who lived and studied in Rome during her 20s and became fluent in Italian and well-versed and passionate about Italian wines, Angelena’s is a labor of love.

The restaurant is the perfect way to share their fascination for a country “We’re not whose cuisine and culture they have to the point come to cherish. where we’ll “It’s just that Italian philosophy toward cooking — pristine ingredients be raising our prepared simply and well,” Briscione own pigs, but said. “It’s what we both love.” we definitely In Briscione’s kitchen, which he leads with a fairly laidback vibe, expectations want to carry are high, but the focus is always on (a) nose-to-tail learning and improvement. philosophy … .”

“It’s all about attitude,” he said. “After 10 years in one of the country’s top — Chef James Briscione culinary schools, I learned to have a lot of patience with young cooks. … Mistakes happen in the kitchen all the time, and that is okay, but they have to learn from those mistakes and never make the same mistake twice.”

Briscione said he views most of his creations as works in progress.

“For me, a dish is rarely ever done,” he said. “That’s what I love about cooking. You’re always kind of chasing that perfection. Sometimes that means adding something to it, and sometimes that means taking something away.”

Parkhurst said she and Briscione view the Pensacola area as a kind of culinary “happy place” where they can blend all of their favorites.

“One of James’ great loves is all things pig!” she added.

“Curing his own sausages, sous vide pork belly and roasting pork shoulder in the wood-fired oven.”

Briscione agreed, adding that it all goes back to “the Italian way.”

“In Italy, people raise their own pig, slaughter it and then use every bit of it,” he said. “We’re not to the point where we’ll be raising our own pigs, but we definitely want to EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

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MURAL ART BY SOMI CHOI & VERONIQUE ZAYAS

carry that nose-to-tail philosophy through everything we do.”

Parkhurst plans to lavish the same attention on Angelena’s extensive by-the-glass wine list. Based not on varietals Brooke Parkhurst and James but regional wines Briscione, from across Italy, along with their the list accommochildren Parker and August, are dates both experirediscovering the enced and novice joys of living in a wine drinkers. “small town” like Pensacola.

“The wine list is presented as a map of Italy,” Parkhurst said. “I take our diners from Milan to Palermo, highlighting both favorite and lesser-known wines.”

Angelena’s bar also will feature six signature cocktails plus three custom inhouse spritzes.

“You want it to be a little bit about an education and give them dishes and wines they’ve never had before,” Parkhurst said.

MURAL ART BY ASHTON HOWARD & EVAN LEVIN

A New Adventure

After Briscione and Parkhurst and their children — 10-year-old Parker and 4-yearold August — followed their hearts back to Pensacola, they settled into Southtowne Apartments. Located literally across the street from Angelena’s, which anchors the new Southtowne office building, they are in the heart of the downtown district. And while the pace of life in downtown Pensacola is vastly

different from Manhattan, they have grown to love their jogs to Maritime Park, walking Parker to school during the school year and supporting the local Palafox Street farmer’s market and other downtown businesses.

“As much as we loved New York and were very happy with everything we were doing there, it wasn’t sustainable,” Briscione said.

“Life in New York is wonderful and tough.”

“It’s a great place to build your career, and we did,” said Parkhurst, who published her 2008 novel, Belle in the Big Apple, while living in New York.

Briscione, an alumnus of Washington High School, and Parkhurst, who graduated from Pensacola High School’s International Baccalaureate program, have fond memories of growing up in the South and wanted to share that with their children.

The move has been a chance to reclaim some of their Southern roots and make the most of being closer to family and the beach.

“We love, love, love being on the water!”

Parkhurst said. “Parker wants to swim all the time!”

Changing It Up

As is often the case when opening a restaurant, the process was long and complex and included more than a few delays. (As of press time, the restaurant was scheduled to open in the latter half of June.)

During the runup to opening Angelena’s, however, Briscione and Parkhurst got

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creative and began showcasing some of Briscione’s most tantalizing dishes — everything from meatballs and cheesy focaccia bread to carbonara with pancetta bits to chianti-braised short ribs with grits and Italian salsa verde — in a series of popular supper club events at various venues across Pensacola.

This summer, Parkhurst and Briscione are busy putting their own unique stamp on the food, wine and atmosphere at Angelena’s.

Initially, the restaurant will serve only dinner, with plans to eventually add a lunch service. Sundays will feature a mid-afternoon opening and offer an Italian-style family meal with large bowls of pasta, meatballs and other classics filling up the tables.

“We’ll be printing the menus every week so they can evolve,” Briscione said. “It’ll allow us to be more fluid with the season. We’re going to be constantly changing it up!”

Angelena’s will also feature a five-course chef’s tasting menu each week.

“We love Briscione will be joined in the kitchen by downtown!

Chef de Cuisine Zachary Keaton, who spent five years at Bud & Alley’s Pizza Bar, before You feel like reaching out to Parkhurst and Briscione for a you’re still at new opportunity. the beginning Angelena’s is something of an homage to its namesake — Angelena Giardina, who of something was married to Giatano, a young Italian wonderful.” immigrant who landed in New Orleans — Brooke Parkhurst and eventually made his way to Pensacola.

Together, the Giardinas worked hard to build a successful fresh produce wholesale business with customers ranging from dining establishments to private families. At the time of Giatano’s death, he was one of the wealthiest men in Pensacola.

Like the Giardinas, Parkhurst and Briscione plan to work as a team, planning out weekly menus, perfecting wine pairings and crafting delicious and innovative specials and desserts.

They want Angelena’s to become Pensacola’s go-to spot for lunch, dinner and everything in between.

It’s the restaurant you can drop by any time of day and “you’re always dressed the right way and it always feels as special as you want it to — whether it’s a lunch with girlfriends or a dinner date,” Parkhurst said.

The pair say they are simply excited to educate their customers about good Italian food and wines and watch Angelena’s grow along with the downtown district.

“We love downtown,” Parkhurst said. “You feel like you’re still at the beginning of something wonderful!” EC

Two stylists from the VolumeONE salon in downtown Pensacola, Sarah Peake and Mary Patterson, collaborated on Brooke Parkhurst's look for her Emerald Coast Magazine shoot. Peake arrived at VolumeONE after working for Dior in New York City. She is licensed in both esthiology and cosmetology and has competed and placed in global hair competitions, including Goldwell’s ColorZoom in 2018. Patterson is a Pensacola native who came to VolumeONE after being trained in cosmetology at the AVEDA Institute in Austin, Texas.

Sarah Peake Mary Patterson VolumeONE cherishes Pensacola culture, and its stylists also understand the importance of getting out and discovering trends from other places.

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Focaccia and sourdough breads accompany Gulf shrimp risotto with green tomatoes and zucchini.

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A Visit with the

First Family Governor, first lady discuss their children and transition into the ‘People’s House’ story by PETE REINWALD // photography by ALEX WORKMAN hair by SOMKIT THOMPSON, HAUTE HEADZ SALON makeup by LISA DAVIS, IMAGE BY LISA

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first family

n the sunroom of Florida’s First House, 2-year-old Madison DeSantis liked what she saw on a bookshelf and went to grab it.

About 15 feet away, from Florida’s First Sofa, her mom sounded a Sunshine State alarm.

“There goes Florida’s irreplaceable history,” Casey DeSantis said, prompting laughter in the room.

Florida’s new first lady joined her husband, Gov. Ron DeSantis, in a recent Governor’s Mansion chat with Emerald Coast Magazine.

The governor and first lady discussed their first impressions of the Capital City, their transition into the Governor’s Mansion, their new life with security detail, their typical day as Florida’s First Family and their efforts to protect their new home — the so-called People’s House — from the innocent but exhausting adventures of toddlers Madison and Mason.

“We’re just going to make sure that they don’t destroy any of Florida’s irreplaceable history, because there are so many wonderful, neat artifacts around,” Casey DeSantis said minutes before her daughter had set out to explore the sunroom, known as the Florida Room. “You go into the dining room, you see stuff from the USS Florida. You see the late 19th-century wallpaper, and I don’t think that orange crayon would look good on that.”

The DeSantis family moved into the Governor’s Mansion in January after a November election that saw DeSantis edge former Tallahassee Mayor Andrew Gillum to become, at age 40, Florida’s youngest governor in more than a century.

His victory also marked the first time in 50 years that toddlers would occupy the Governor’s Mansion. Madison DeSantis turned 2 in November, and her brother Mason turned 1 in March.

“We tried to baby-proof this place, but there are so many nooks and crannies, and they find all the nooks and crannies,” said the governor, who then referred to himself and the first lady: “So we run around. She runs around all the time and really does a phenomenal job because she’s out on the road, too.”

In an interview that lasted about 20 minutes, Ron and Casey DeSantis portrayed themselves as a somewhat ordinary couple — him a former Navy lawyer and U.S. congressman, her a former Jacksonville TV news anchor and host — who would begin to raise two children in an extraordinary place.

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The communications teams of the governor and first lady requested and received questions and topics in advance of the interview. Yet the First Couple — pleasant and conversational, with flashes of fun from the first lady — didn’t hesitate to answer questions that veered from those themes, including about how they met, how their lives have changed and how they plan to raise their kids.

“They’re being raised now in an environment that’s very atypical,” the governor said. “You have this house, you have staff, you have a mansion chef and all this stuff, and that’s not how I, or Casey, grew up, and so I think we’re going to be cognizant to make sure that the kids are grounded and that they don’t have any type of sense of entitlement.”

Madison and Mason DeSantis get their hands on what they can in their dad’s office at their home, the Governor’s Mansion. At right, Madison continues the hunt. “We’re just going to make sure that they don’t destroy any of Florida’s irreplaceable history,” said their mom, first lady Casey DeSantis.

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Life in the Governor’s Mansion hardly yields a typical day, especially given all the travel for the First Couple, often to multiple Florida cities in the same day. The governor said they always aim to return by dinnertime so that they can be with their children.

“We’re grateful and appreciative for everything that we have,” the first lady added. “I think they need to have a good sense of that.”

The family moved into the Governor’s Mansion from what the governor described as a modest home south of Jacksonville.

They also said they sold both of their cars after it became obvious that they no longer would need them.

A security team has been with them since the night of the election, guarding the family even during the transition period while they still lived in Ponte Vedra Beach.

“There’d be all these SUVs, and we had like a three-bedroom, 1,800-square-foot house,” the governor said. “I mean, you have all of these SUVs flanked out there. It was a little interesting and definitely out of kilter for the neighborhood. I think that’s taken some time just to get used to.”

Life in the Governor’s Mansion hardly yields a typical day, especially given all the travel for the First Couple, often to multiple Florida cities in

the same day. The governor said they always aim to return by dinnertime so that they can be with their children.

Gov. DeSantis said he didn’t have that ability as a member of Congress, which kept him in Washington, D.C., for much of the time. He became a U.S. representative for Florida’s 6th Congressional District, which covers an area of northeastern Florida, in 2013 and stepped down in late 2018 to concentrate on his run for governor.

“Once we had kids, it was like, ‘I’m leaving the kids for half the year up there, sleeping in my office, then coming back,’ ” Gov. DeSantis said. “So as governor, I can do three or four stops around the state and still end up back at home at night here. So this has been much more family friendly. I’ve seen my kids way more since I’ve been governor.”

They explore Tallahassee when they can — with security, of course — and they established a favorite spot from the start: Lafayette Park. The first lady mentioned a visit in which the kids played on the swings. After an hour there, she said, Madison didn’t want to leave.

“It was a little tough getting her back into the car,” the first lady said.

As a matter of fact, she said: “Madison had a little bit of a fit.”

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Gov. Ron DeSantis enjoys a moment with his son, Mason, who turned 1 in March. (Right) The first mom and Mason watch as the first dad flips through a book with Madison on the patio of the Governor’s Mansion. Madison keeps one hand on a Florida symbol.

That tells you something about the First Family’s kids.

They’re kids. Now that their daughter has begun to understand “please” and “thank you,” the First Couple will emphasize those words and “build from there,” the first lady said.

After the interview and after Madison’s encounter with “Florida’s irreplaceable history,” the First Family gathered for photos on the patio, where Madison spotted an orange and began to peel it.

“That is a true native Floridian right there,” the first lady said of her daughter.

Mason — “Baby” to his sister — also found the orange appealing.

“Madison, Baby’s taking your orange,” the governor said in the soft tone of a father talking to his 2-year-old daughter.

“No, Baby,” Madison said prompting smiles from staff members, photographers and others.

The scene served as a reminder that a young dad hadn’t occupied the governor’s office since 1970 when Claude Kirk was the father of young Claudia and Erik. That means it has been decades since the Governor’s Mansion has seen this much cooing.

The first lady looked at Mason, who was about 11 months old when the interview took place, as he sat on his father’s lap.

“You know what’s neat?” the first lady said. “He’s not walking yet, so his first steps will be in the Governor’s Mansion.”

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“We’re grateful and appreciative for everything that we have.

I think (the children) need to have a good sense of that.”

— first lady Casey DeSantis

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first family

Gov. Ron DeSantis says he spends more time with his kids as governor than he did as a U.S. congressman who lived in Washington. “So this has been much more family friendly,” he said of his new job.

Here are other topics that the governor and first lady discussed during Emerald Coast Magazine’s February visit to the Governor’s Mansion.

The responses are edited for length and clarity.

The first lady on the First Family’s new security detail: A: “A neat story when we were in Jacksonville: It was my daughter’s second birthday, so they had the FDLE out there, and it happened to fall on Thanksgiving. We had some leftover cake, so Madison, along with Ron and myself, decided to bring some out, and I think we had about five or six agents who were graciously spending their Thanksgiving with us. And we greatly appreciated it, and they all sang Happy Birthday to her, on the front lawn, on Thanksgiving, which was very special.”

The first lady on the adventures of the First Couple’s eldest toddler: A: “Madison is testing everything. She was going through (the Governor’s Mansion) and she was pulling through drawers the other day, and she happened to open one drawer and inside the drawer was … you remember VHS tapes? We all know VHS tapes. But she found the little labels that were on there, and she was playing with those stickers, and I’m thinking, that was back, what, the 1980s or early ’90s? It was neat that she uncovered that, that nobody even probably knew was it there and was probably sitting dormant for 30 years.” The governor added that his daughter’s playful discovery was from circa “the Bob Martinez administration.”

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The first lady on decorating plans for the Governor’s Mansion: A: “Oh, decorate. Our goal right now is to make sure we don’t destroy all the wonderful things that the former First Families have done right. This beautiful room (the sunroom known as the Florida Room) was created by the Grahams.

Each first family puts their mark on the mansion in some way, shape or form. Jeb Bush and his wife put together the library and did a great job. So we’re just trying to make sure that everything that every family has done to make this place beautiful, that we preserve that, and we’re getting there.” The first lady and governor mentioned Ann Scott, wife of former Gov. Rick Scott.

“I think it’s a house that the people of Florida can be proud of, and I think her touch was a big reason why,” Gov. DeSantis said.

The first lady on Governor’s Mansion initiatives: A: “First and foremost, Ron and I have a sense that we want to serve the people of Florida. We understand that this is not our house. This is the People’s House, and we want to be very open and welcoming to as many people as we can that they get the experience, whether it’s school groups or inviting people in to be able to experience it, just as we’ve had the good fortune to be able to do. As far as initiatives, I’m still listening. When I approach this role, I approach it really with a lot of humility and grace, to say that I don’t know everything in the beginning. And I really want to listen to see what people say would be in the best interest of the first lady to be able to help serve the people of Florida. I always find myself and my heart going back to children in some capacity, (in addition to) initiatives with the environment. I’m passionate about our water quality.”

The governor on charitable initiatives: A: “I’m going to try to find something to help kids probably in the local area, maybe with some scholarships. I figure that unless you’re Rick Scott and become governor of Florida, you’ve got to raise a lot of money. I’m pretty good at that now, so we might as well put that to good use and do that, and another charitable thing we’re going to do is borrowed from when I was in Washington: We would always do a congressional golf Ryder Cup to raise money for The First Tee program. That’s (continued on page 162)

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photography by MICHAEL BOOINI // illustrations by LINDSEY MASTERSON

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Jennifer Mayo’s philosophy on doodles is that they are akin to potato chips: You can never have just one.

She’s referring, of course, to the latest craze of “designer” dogs, which are hybrids of the Standard Poodle and another pooch, such as a Golden Retriever, Bernese Mountain Dog or Old English Sheep dog.

The result? Litters of Goldendoodles, Bernadoodles and Sheepadoodles, each boasting unique temperaments and physical characteristics. And with names as precious as the pups themselves, it’s easy to see how oodles of these doodles (along with some poodles) have wiggled their way into the hearts of Callaway residents Jennifer and her husband, Billy Mayo, for the past 15 years.

The flame was lighted → Jennifer and Billy Mayo pause when Jennifer, who started in the course of out as an exclusive breeder walking Bailey, of toy poodles, began an Irishdoodle, and Parker researching doodles online. (shaking hands), She was immediately a Goldendoodle. captivated by their winning Opposite page: Bailey and characteristics: They don’t Jennifer share shed much and don’t trigger parenting duties. allergies; they are given to an inherent intelligence that facilitates training; and they possess a healthy “hybrid vigor” obtained from crossing two parents with optimal genetics.

Still, Jennifer never thought about getting one … until she came across a photo of the red, curlycoated Irishdoodle, Bailey.

“It was love at first sight,” she says. “I had to coax Billy into it at first, but we eventually ended up driving to Tallahassee to get her. Once we’d had her for about six months, I knew doodles were what I wanted to do for the rest of my life.”

By the time Bailey matured, Jennifer had scouted out a Standard Poodle stud in Louisiana who checked all the right boxes. Breeding them would yield a second-generation litter, thus boosting their hypoallergenic properties and trainability.

“I thought she was crazy,” Billy says of his wife’s vision. “At the time, we were living on the other side of Callaway at a much less spacious property.

We already had four dogs, and I thought that was enough. Our kids are grown, and now she wants a bunch of dogs running the place?”

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Meanwhile, Billy has a squirmy, 9-week-old poodle puppy called Penny in his lap. He works as a roofer at Tyndall Air Force Base and is every bit a man’s man, yet his gravelly voice softens and coos for Penny as she yips and gnaws on his calloused fingers.

Jennifer chides him, explaining that Billy is onsite groomer at their Emerald Coast Kennels. He constructed the massive kennel in the Mayos’ backyard, which currently houses 18 dogs: silver labs, standard poodles, Bernese mountain dogs, a golden retriever, several doodles and a rescue

chihuahua. Whenever Billy’s not working, she says, he’s likely out back with the pack.

“He leaves the mommas and the babies and the deep-cleaning to me,” she says.

Pampered Parents

Through years of mentorship from other experienced breeders, extensive research and hundreds of successful deliveries, the Mayos have nailed the maternity process down to a science.

In fact, Jennifer says, it starts with science. “All of our dogs are genetically tested to ensure they don’t have any

issues,” she explains. “If they do, they don’t get bred. That’s why we like to raise all our potential parents from puppies, so we can keep an eye on them and make sure their temperaments are suitable for breeding.”

Samples of saliva obtained from dogs are shipped to the Paw Prints Genetics lab in Spokane, Washington, and tested for over 150 neurological, musculoskeletal, metabolic and blood diseases.

The assessment reveals any indication of gastrointestinal issues, anomalies in eyesight or urinary tract concerns. (Results are posted for each prospective buyer to see at emeraldcoastkennels.com.)

With a clean bill of health, a female is bred and expected to give birth 63-65 days later. And, for the Mayos’ mothers, that period is pretty dog-gone great.

Knowing they’re not eating for two, but up to 11, Jennifer keeps a kettle of chicken and rice simmering on the stove. The dish’s blandness combats morning sickness and ensures an adequate nutrient supply.

“They’re all spoiled rotten and are such love bugs,” she says. “Even my most independent and rambunctious mothers will come and lay on you, demanding to be snuggled. That’s why I’m happy that I’m around all day to give them the attention they need.”

Mothers live separately in a modest structure attached to the back of the Mayos’ house known as the whelping

unit. Built, insulated and puppyproofed by Billy, the unit encloses a cozy, sterile environment of blankets and pillows.

During my visit, Bailey and her litter of 10 are its current tenants. A one-week-old, rusty-red Irishdoodle fits into the palm of my hand, its eyes and ears still closed to the world. He suckles on my finger, and I wonder if I’m sly enough to slip him into my pocket without alarming my hosts.

“Bailey and the rest of our mothers are never bothered by us when we are present during labor,” Billy says.

“They find us comforting, and we prefer to be there because there have been times when puppies have come out unresponsive, but by generating a little heat and stimulating them, they’ve come through.”

Puppies are weighed, measured and given a colored collar for identification (Jennifer isn’t allowed to name them, Billy says. Otherwise, she’ll keep them!)

“After being in the medical field for nearly 30 years, I couldn’t be happier taking care of them,” Jennifer beams.

“The first four weeks are the best because they’re just so small, and you get to see each individual personality come out — no two are the same.”

The pups are integrated into the rest of the pack at about six weeks, and eligible for their fur-ever homes by week eight.

More Than Just a Business

Doodles are notorious for costing an arm and a leg. At Emerald Coast Kennels, pups are priced anywhere from $1,100 to $2,800, but a close look at the care and feeding they receive reveals that you’re getting a decently solid deal.

Every 10 days, Jennifer orders nine new bags of dog chow. Sonograms run around $125, and vet trips are frequent. The Mayos purchase wormers, flea collars and vaccinations for every single puppy, and about 600-1,000 potty pads are consumed (continued on page 164) per litter.

Tail of the Tape BERNADOODLE (Bernese Mountain Dog and Standard Poodle)

TEMPERAMENT: Adaptable, intelligent, low key COAT: Tri-colored black, white and rust, or phantom MEASUREMENTS: Medium, 23-29 inches, 50-100 pounds IDEAL FOR: Couch potatoes.

After a walk around the block, the Bernadoodle loves nothing more than snuggling on the sofa.

CONS: Needy. Will demand belly rubs during commercial breaks.

LABRADOODLE (Labrador Retriever and Standard Poodle)

TEMPERAMENT: High-energy, athletic, affectionate COAT: Silver, cream, chocolate, black MEASUREMENTS: Medium, 21-24 inches, 45-65 pounds IDEAL FOR: Adventurers.

If you love to road trip, run or boat, this doodle’s your match.

CONS: Manipulative. Will consistently exploit your weakness for puppy eyes to get their way.

SHEEPADOODLE (Old English Sheepdog and Standard Poodle)

TEMPERAMENT: Social, mellow, obedient COAT: Black and white MEASUREMENTS: Medium, 15-28 inches, 60-90 pounds IDEAL FOR: Families. Affable dispositions make the gentle-natured Sheepadoodle the perfect playmate for your little ones.

CONS: Pushy. May or may not try to herd you to the treat jar.

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98 June–July 2019 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM 98 February–March 2016 EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM

expression JUN/JUL 2019

CREATIVE WORKS LAND ON PAGES, CANVASES AND STAGES

ART

OLD IS NEW AGAIN Artist relies on found objects

by LAURIE EINSTEIN KOSZUTA

↗ Bottle bottoms, shards of glass and other odds and ends populate works of art at Create with Big Orange House Designs in Niceville.

STAGE photography by JACQUELINE WARD IMAGES

Gretchen Nelson Scott Fine Arts Center

|| BOOKS

Worlds of Her Own Making

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expression

M

ost people see used wine bottles, old shower doors, buttons, scrap wood and discarded jewelry as trash. But Niceville artist Angela Stevenson, owner of Create with Big Orange House Designs, sees in those items sea turtles, fish and mermaids. Colorful shattered safety glass and shells adorn ships, beach scenes and more. Stevenson’s imaginative art breathes new life into items that would usually wind up in a recycle bin or landfill.

“I’ve always had a love for recycled materials,” Stevenson said. “And the fact that I live near the Gulf of Mexico is very inspiring as an artist. I call it my coastal flavored art because I use shells in almost everything.

“I am an artist,” she laughed, “but I have no background in art at all.”

Koszuta left college early to get married but soon realized that she had a knack for understanding how to put colors and textures together.

She started decorating homes and went on to fix up and flip houses for fun and profit.

“The real art started when I began as a parent volunteer teaching OVAL (Okaloosa Volunteer Art Liaison) art at my son’s elementary school,” Stevenson said.

“There was a very lean budget for supplies, so the parent volunteers had to get creative. We used everything from aluminum cans to pallet boards, and it was a huge success. It was then that I realized that there might be something to this art thing for me.”

Stevenson’s husband bought her a bicycle with a basket and she regularly toured her neighborhood, pausing to do recycle-bin scrounging. “I was looking for things that may not

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Niceville artist Angela Stevenson displays a composition that spells a word that could serve as her mantra.

have much value to anyone else, but were a gold mine to me.”

She began melting recycled bottles in her kiln and making them into cheeseboards and glassware. She put them in a few shops and people loved them. They quickly sold out.

Gone are the days when Stevenson used her bike to forage for recycled materials.

“I don’t need to do that anymore because people literally leave bins of stuff at my door every day,” she said. “I get old corks, driftwood, picture frames, loads of dock wood from rebuilds

June–July 2019 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

or storms, lots of shells and even unwanted crystal. It has taken on a life of its own. I get calls from various glass shops when they have shatterproof tempered glass from shower doors that they want to get rid of.”

Always, Stevenson wants her art to be fun, eclectic and bordering on humorous. Her art seems to speak to people.

At the Emerald Coast Autism Center (ECAC) at Northwest Florida State College in Niceville, Stevenson’s art is the first thing visitors see as they enter the building. photography by JACQUELINE WARD IMAGES

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What started out as a small fish project for the school quickly turned into a huge 200-piece collection with an underwater theme. Schools of fish, colorful corals, seaweed, a large sea turtle and a large mermaid adorn the lobby while a different sea creature is displayed at the door to each classroom. Students are met by a shark, seahorse, electric eel, lobster, anemones and more. Each piece of art was carefully cut from recycled wood, then painted, adorned with recycled glass pieces and coated with a special resin. To date, the ECAC project is the largest Stevenson has undertaken.

Interest in her art has increased so much that Stevenson moved her studio into a larger space in a Bluewater shopping plaza last summer. She needed more space to display art for sale and to offer classes.

She currently partners with four other artists who use the studio to teach classes.

Stevenson is a woman constantly in motion, always eyeing new project ideas and thinking of ways to give back to the community. She is currently working with an art therapist in hopes of offering classes to servicemen with PTSD. “I love that I can use my talent to bring joy to people,” she said. “It is a gift that keeps on giving.” EC

PHOTO BY JACQUELINE WARD IMAGES

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↑ REPURPOSING RECYCLABLES. Stevenson positions pieces from glass bottles as a work begins to come together at her studio in Niceville.

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expression

The Mosley High School Drama Club staged a production of the timeless musical, “Bye Bye Birdie,” in March at the Gretchen Nelson Scott Fine Arts Center.

STAGE

CENTER STAGE Mosley High School’s Fine Arts Center is a community asset

by LAURIE EINSTEIN KOSZUTA

Serving as a lifeboat, the Gretchen Nelson Scott Fine Arts Center has become the temporary home for arts venues and organizations that were disrupted by Hurricane Michael.

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T

he aftermath of a hurricane can bring a community together in ways that no one would predict. That is precisely what the Gretchen Nelson Scott Fine Arts Center at Mosley High School in Lynn Haven did after Hurricane Michael hit Panama City in October.

The state-of-the-art facility, which opened in October 2017, was slightly damaged by the hurricane and had interior water leaks, yet was able to open for use just a week after the storm. The cleaning crews worked diligently to dry out affected areas, and the center has been used on an almost daily basis since then.

The Kaleidoscope Theater, the Panama City POPS orchestra and several churches whose buildings were rendered unusable, now use the Fine Arts Center as their temporary home. That use has coincided with its primary function as a performing arts center for Mosley High School’s band, chorus and theater departments.

The Fine Arts Center was named for Gretchen Nelson Scott, who passed away in 2014, but had been well-known in Panama City for her love of singing and the performing arts.

“She would have been so proud of the center that bears her name,” said her brother Bubba Nelson. “She photography by MICHAEL BOOINI

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expression

↑ The center has become a regional resource. ← Student thespian Greenlee Walters, left, and Gretchen Nelson Scott Fine Arts Center coordinator Julie Gay love showing off the new performance venue at Mosley High School in Lynn Haven. Walters was president of the Mosley Drama Club prior to her graduation in May.

loved this community and she would have loved the idea of a performing arts center at Mosley. We are really glad that our family was able to give back to the community that has meant so much to us.”

The facility was made possible through a multi-million dollar grant from the Marion G. and Barbara W. Nelson Foundation, which Bubba Nelson serves as trustee. The sleek, modern facility boasts a 584-seat auditorium, a 40-foot-deep stage, a state-of-the-art sound system, advanced lighting, and digital audio-

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visual controls. An all-glass lobby is used as an art gallery for student work.

“We have needed a facility like this for so long,” said Julie Gay, the Fine Arts Center coordinator and a fulltime social science and drama teacher at Mosley. “We are just so grateful to the Nelson family for their generous donation. They saw that Mosley was a school that needed an auditorium on this side of the Hathaway Bridge.”

At one time, the only stage that Mosley had was in a cafetorium, but it was torn down years ago, leaving the school with no permanent venue of its own. With no facility on campus, the teachers had to continuously hunt for sites to rent for student programs.

“That created a lot of stress and issues,” said Bruce Taws, a longtime drama teacher at Mosley, “because our students could not prepare or rehearse much on the actual stage we were going to use. Now we have time to work out the details.”

“Before we had the center,” added Greenlee Walters, a senior at Mosley and president of the school drama club, “there were a lot of late nights and heavy lifting whenever we had a performance. After we built the sets at school, we had to transport and set them up at the performance site.

Then, after a performance, it would take us until 3 a.m. to break down the sets, load them onto a truck and transport them back to school. That doesn’t happen anymore because everything is in one place. It is so much more convenient.

“Another great thing is that we know what we can and cannot do with set production,” Walters noted, “because we know the exact measurements of our stage. We can program the sound and lighting to precisely fit our needs right in our facility. That wasn’t the case in the past.

“I know the students at Mosley love the arts center. It’s like our baby.

We make sure that everyone treats it with respect. It has made a big difference, and we love showing it off.” EC photography by MICHAEL BOOINI

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BOOKS

WORLDS OF HER OWN MAKING

Novelist rewrites the laws of physics

By STEVE BORNHOFT

F

lint, who is of the Riven, struggles to explain shards to Cleo, a psychic whom he had been destined to meet.

Ancient, magical beings once shared the earth, he begins. And, at their demise, their souls splintered into many pieces that came to rest in people who were thus infected with extraordinary powers that might be used for evil or good.

Flint possesses the ability to become undetectable. Cleo, before the paranormal romance novel, Shards of Blood and Shadow, comes to a close, assumes a close family friend’s capacity for speaking with the dead. Too, Flint overcomes his aversion to physical contact and tumbles into bed with Cleo, as had been prophesied by Cleo’s mother.

It’s complicated.

“Eighty percent of my readers are women,” said Shannon Butcher, who penned Shards writing as Anna Argent. “And they tend to be well educated.

My novels have complex plots with many characters, and you have to be able to keep track of a lot of details.”

Details that may not be of this world, but instead, a world that Butcher creates.

Butcher, 46, was born in flyover country and studied engineering at the University of Oklahoma as her father had. Two years ago, she and her husband moved to Shalimar, not far from Dad’s hometown of Milton. She had vacationed along the Emerald Coast as a child.

Butcher worked as an industrial engineer, primarily in the area of telecommunications, before she became a novelist. And, she was a dedicated fan of fantasy and science fiction before a friend convinced her to read a romance novel.

“All of the people around me were avid romance readers,” Butcher said. “My mom read romances.

But I scoffed at them — those were girl books.

Finally, I read one by Julie Garwood and it was the most amazing experience. It was so emotional and so uplifting, and I wondered if maybe I could write a romance.”

She took an enthusiastic stab at doing so and, 13 days later, she had completed her first novel.

“It was awful,” Butcher conceded. “Truly hideous. But I had had so much fun writing it.

So I wrote another one and another one. I wrote eight novels before I had anything that I thought was good enough to show to an agent. My ninth novel got me a contract with an agency and my first sale.”

Today, Butcher owns her own publishing company, Silver Linings Media. In addition to her own works, she has published an anthology.

Several of her books have landed on the New York Times bestseller list.

“I was with publishers in New York for a long time — Warner Books, Hachette, Penguin,” Butcher noted. “I would go back and do it again, but there is something about owning your own publishing company and doing what you want on your own schedule. It is really freeing. You don’t have to worry about anyone’s expectations other than your own and those of your readers.”

For the most part, readers’ expectations are manageable.

“I have characters that I am fond of and others that I would have nothing to do with,” Butcher said. “Nika and Madoc (from the Sentinel Wars series; Blood Bond, the 11th book in that series,

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

For most of her life, Shannon Butcher spurned romance novels. Now, she writes them.

She has penned more than 30 titles since launching her career in 2007. A former engineer, she uses charts, graphs and tables to aid her in the mechanics of story design — and to keep track of the colorful characters, magical powers and alternate universes she creates.

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photography by SAIGE ROBERTS

PHOTO BY STEVE BORNHOFT (BUTCHER)

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expression is her latest release) are very different from each other, but they are very lovely together. They touched something in me, and readers feel that same way. It’s neat that we like the same people.”

Readers accustomed to binge-watching entire series at once just wish Butcher would write faster. But, she is only one person and creating new worlds takes time.

“Making up your own rules and races of creatures, it’s intriguing,” Butcher said. “I really love coming up with EXCERPT FROM SHARDS OF BLOOD magical powers and writing AND SHADOW: rules of magic. I create my own Cleo’s amulet flared laws of physics, and as long as brighter, and her I don’t break them, I can do face lifted in hope. whatever I want. That really Her gaze met his, feeds into the engineering side so beautiful and of my brain.” sweet, he knew he’d The engineer takes a never be able to live systematic approach to her without it. writing, using Gantt charts to hold herself accountable.

One pale blue eye, B “Writing has a certain pace to one emerald green. it, and I want to make sure that “I’m here,” he said, I am hitting notes at the right though his voice time,” Butcher said. “If I am X was barely a thread percentage into a book, I should of sound. have accomplished X much of the plot.”

She clutched the Butcher begins by defining amulet. More light the emotions she intends for her shone out from it, readers to feel and then “reverse cutting through the engineers” her novels by mist with each thin creating a world and a storyline blade of white. She that will deliver that experience. spun around, flinging “That’s what fiction is all her light through about,” she said. “People pick the room like a rave up a horror novel because they party. Everywhere want to be scared, a romance the amulet touched, novel because they want to feel the mist turned to like falling in love again, an ash and was sucked adventure novel because they into the amulet like a want to escape.” vacuum cleaner.

Butcher’s novels, however, are like neopolitan ice cream.

You get all three.

A searing fog tears at Flint’s nerves and threatens to consume him. But Cleo is newly equipped with a magical artifact, an amulet, given her by a reclusive and mysterious librarian possessed of ancient books.

For the adventurers, the horrific fog will soon fully dissipate. Escape is nigh, sure to be followed by another bedroom session. EC

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PROMOTION

Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation I

n the midst of busy schedules and bustling lives, it is important to connect with aspects of humanity that bring peace and joy to our lives. For many, art is the answer.

Since its beginning in 1995, the Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation has held the belief that the arts are the glue that hold communities together.

MKAF was established on the beliefs of the late Destin matriarch, Mattie Kelly.

As a former educator, Mattie left a legacy for future generations to have a deep appreciation of the arts and provide a cultural infrastructure desperately needed along the coast. She passed the baton to the community when she bequeathed 52 acres of land in the heart of Destin to carry on her passion for arts and arts-integrated education.

For the past 20 years, CEO Marcia Hull has been the voice and face of MKAF. “Representing the nonprofit industry is a privilege, and to be a part of something that provides quality of life to our residents and visitors is an honor,” said Hull. “These 20 years have been the happiest career experience because I’ve been able to collaborate with over 175 community leaders and visionaries who have dedicated their

wisdom, talents and financial support on the board of directors and unlimited number of volunteers.”

MKAF’s signature events include Concerts in the Village, Festival of the Arts, Ruth’s Chris Wine Walkabout and Sounds of the Season. These events all provide additional funding for MKAF’s community outreach initiatives, which Hull views as the most important aspect ofthe foundation.

MKAF’s Community Outreach is an inclusive arts education program of diverse abilities and backgrounds. MKAF bridges the gap to those who either lack access to the arts or could uniquely benefit from them. They serve multiple populations, including K-12 students, children and adults with special needs, at-risk youth and veteran and active-duty warriors with both visible and invisible injuries.

Art for All Abilities is a program committed to helping people with disabilities engage with painting, drawing, music and more. Arts Empower serves K-12 students, at-risk youth and people with special needs, providing an educational teaching method that integrates fine and performing arts as pathways to learning key subject areas. Warrior Arts seeks to offer therapeutic art classes for veteran and

active-duty military in order to alleviate stress and anxiety.

“The arts provide a type of therapeutic technique rooted in the idea that creative expression can foster early learning development, healing and mental health challenges,” said Hull. “Quality of life is a strategy, not a luxury. Creativity and originality must be the hallmark of our community’s development.”

4323 Commons Drive W., Destin | (850) 650-2226 | mattiekellyartsfoundation.org 112

June–July 2019 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

MARK YOUR

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Abodes

JUN/JUL 2019

TRENDS FROM FLOOR TO CEILING, FRONT TO BACK

↗

Woven roman shades provided by Lindsay Cannon and Brooks Logan at Lovelace Interiors make for a natural look.

INTERIORS

PHOTO COURTESY OF LOVELACE INTERIORS

WINDOWS OF OPPORTUNITY New blinds can fit any budget and improve your outlook

by LAURIE EINSTEIN KOSZUTA

EXTERIORS

Back to the Front

|| GARDENING

Bug-Eating Bats Deserve Better Rep

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I

f you are looking for a fresh and finished appearance for your home or rental property, the best place to start is with window treatments. Window coverings can take a room from blah to beautiful. But finding inspiration, determining a budget and getting started is usually the biggest challenge. It helps that there are a wide variety of styles, price points and stores, both online and in retail locations, that can cater to your specific needs.

“Shopping for the right window treatments doesn’t have to be intimidating, and you can definitely stay within a set budget,” noted Brooks Logan, senior interior designer at Lovelace Interiors in Destin. “I always recommend that people start the process by determining their goal for the window treatments. Are you trying to add color, provide privacy, reduce glare or block out the sun to prevent damage to furniture and flooring? Also, note the shape of the window because that will determine how the treatments can be mounted.”

“Window treatments can be an investment,” said Lindsay Cannon, another interior designer at Lovelace. “It all depends on the materials you choose and the number and size of your windows. Most people don’t change their window treatments very often, so they want to do it right the first time.”

“If you are on a tight budget,” Logan suggested, “you might want to start with 2-inch faux wood blinds. On the Emerald Coast where the humidity can be high, faux wood blinds don’t warp like wood blinds often can. You can order them through various home improvement stores and get a great look. The key, however, is to be consistent throughout your decor, especially for windows that face the front of the

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house. You don’t want sheers on one window and faux wood blinds on another. That consistency will ensure a good look from outside the home.”

For window coverings in the mid-price range, the professionals suggest woven shades made of natural materials such as bamboo, reeds and grasses which are both eco-friendly and are a renewable resource. They offer diffused lighting through the material, but if more privacy is needed, a blackout liner can be added.

Prices can vary depending on the weave of the material.

Cannon noted that plantation shutters are another excellent option in the mid to higher price range. “Plantation shutters add value to a home,” she said, “because they are attached to the house. They provide excellent insulation, are easy to clean and won’t fade like fabric window coverings.”

“For custom window treatments,” said Cannon, “you can expect to pay a lot more. The cost

can rise dramatically when factoring in luxe fabrics, high-end embellishments, hardware and trim on the size and number of windows to cover.”

Both designers agree that adding a motorized feature to various window treatments can and does make life a lot easier.

They are ideal for hard-to-reach windows and can be used to remotely tilt, raise, lower or open shades, blinds and draperies.

The designers recommend staying away from trends that might go out of style quickly, be non-functional and ultimately end up being more costly in the long run. They suggest using materials and neutral colors that give a more minimal and understated look.

“We don’t see cornice boards or heavily carved drapery rods anymore,” Cannon said.

With so many choices on the market, your windows can look better than ever, and you’ll be able to easily show off your personality and style. EC

PHOTO BY JODIEJOHNSON / ISTOCK / GETTY IMAGES PLUS

Plantation shutters offer several advantages: They provide insulation, are easy to clean, don’t fade and add value to a home.

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The epitome of luxury meets casual comfort is present in this herringbone navy-hued, velvet-textured bed with pewter nailheads.Â

SPONSORED REPORT

TWICE

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LOVELACE INTERIORS ADDS A LIFESTYLE STORE TO AN ALREADY FLOURISHING BRAND PHOTOS BY JACK GARDNER PHOTOGRAPHY

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SPONSORED REPORT

Textures, patterns and colorful, eyecatching artwork add personality to a room full of neutrals.

SPONSORED REPORT

T

he exterior of a home or business may be the first aspect you see, but the interior is truly where the heart and soul reside. Our interiors reflect our passions, interests, styles and inspirations in a variety of ways — from the art we choose to display to the dining room tables we pick. Whether you lean more toward modern, classic or coastal, Lovelace Interiors has always stood by their promise of creating a space that is exactly how you want it.

Susan Lovelace opened Lovelace Interiors 25 years ago and has been a leading interior design firm and furniture store along the Emerald Coast ever since. The team of 15 licensed interior designers specializes in everything from new construction, remodels and renovations to helping you select home furnishings from their 10,000-square-foot showroom and warehouse in Miramar Beach.

Statement making pieces such as large jars, intricate bowls, patterned throw pillows and unique artwork can add volume, interest and conversation to any room from dining areas to lounging spaces.

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SPONSORED REPORT

A padded wall paired with a tranquil color palette soothes the senses and quiets the room.

SPONSORED REPORT

12870 U.S. HIGHWAY 98 WEST, MIRAMAR BEACH // (850) 837-5563 SHOPPES @ INLET 13625 EMERALD COAST PKWY EAST, INLET BEACH // (850) 909-0435

DRUM ROLL, PLEASE!

The latest news among Lovelace Interiors is the beautiful new coffeetable book, Some Like It HOT: Inspiring Spaces by Florida’s Hottest Designers

by Beth Benton Buckley!

The book includes interiors created by 30 of the state’s best and brightest experts in the interior design field, and we’re so proud to say that Lovelace Interiors owner and principle designer, Susan Lovelace, is one of them!

PORTRAIT BY COLLEEN DUFFLEY

In March of 2019, a second location, Lovelace Lifestyles, opened at the Shoppes at Inlet. The new location features an abundance of natural light that shines in on the array of lifestyle-centric items, including jewelry, beach bags, clothing, home decor and furnishings. The new 5,000-square-foot showroom is in close proximity to the original store and is intended to service new and existing clients further east. While the new store still specializes in interior design with designers on-site, it differs in its vibe.

“It’s exactly what I dreamed and hoped it would be,” said Lovelace. “The space is relaxed and coastal cool, inviting you to stop by and enjoy a glass of wine. It’s a store where you can come in and buy a pair of earrings, but you might also see a beautiful piece of furniture that inspires you to upgrade your home.”

A benefit to the company and clients alike is the expansion of items available for design projects. Designers have the ability to procure items from both stores in order to best fulfill clients’ wants and needs.

“We have an amazing staff of designers, and our warehouse and delivery are state-of-the-art,” said Lovelace. “I am very proud of our entire operation, how they work and how every single person on staff is here to please our clients.”

From helping you select the perfect lamp to flawlessly completing a total home redesign, Lovelace Interiors is recognizable for their attention to detail, creativity and the way their stores are beautifully orchestrated to inspire.

SUSAN LOVELACE

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EXTERIORS

BACK TO THE FRONT

Traditional design trend is bringing porches back to life

by LAURIE EINSTEIN KOSZUTA

T

here is something special about a home with a front porch. When a swing is attached to an extended roof or comfortable chairs are neatly arranged in its open space, the front porch conveys a sense of community.

And it does so without saying a word.

“To me,” said Marion Ruckel Skalicky, CEO of Ruckel Properties in Niceville, “the front porch is like the soul of a neighborhood. It is inviting and draws you in and makes you want to stay and chat with the people around you. Too many neighborhoods don’t seem to have that soul.”

The front porch is iconic to American culture, particularly in the South,

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because it was used as an extension of a home’s living space. Family members of all ages could stay engaged with outside life by merely sitting there or playing nearby.

Old-style front porches were designed for the family, but they were also designed for function. Some had screens and were used for sleeping during warmer months while others had no screening and were no escape from the elements. But most people recall the classic, front-facing porches that wrap around one or more corners of the house, have wide steps leading to the entry and white railings.

“Those front porches seemed to signal a more casual lifestyle,” said Janice Busovne, a Realtor with Keller-Williams Realty in Niceville. “When cars and airconditioning became more commonplace, people stayed inside because they didn’t want to deal with the noise and noxious fumes coming from the street. So they began retreating to the back of their houses for more privacy.”

In new construction, everything old can be new again as the front porch is making a comeback.

Deer Moss Creek and Parkview Place are two neighborhoods in Niceville that

June–July 2019 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

Ruckel Properties has developed, both of which incorporate a front porch into the design of the houses. Front porches are so important to Parkview Place that the main street leading in and around the neighborhood is called Front Porch Circle.

“We have preapproved builders who understand that the front porch is an architectural element,” Skalicky noted.

“They work with the town architect, who ensures that the porches stay true to the design of the house and the house stays true to the design of the neighborhood.

“The front porch adds to the quality of life, and the outdoor living aspect adds to the total value of the home. And it certainly adds charm.”

Front porches naturally exude nostalgia, warmth and appeal. Movies and television shows have long depicted sprawling front porches as an inviting welcome to a home. It could be one reason why famous musicians like Thomas Rhett, Lonestar and Loretta Lynn, for example, all have songs about how front porches make them feel and how they provide a connection to the past. As some song lyrics suggest, “If everyone had a front porch, we’d all be friends.” EC

PHOTO COURTESY OF RUCKEL PROPERTIES

Designs for all homes in the Deer Moss Creek community in Niceville incorporate front porches, which give the development a neighborhood feel.

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SPONSORED PROMOTION PROMOTION

IMPROVING LIVES BY DESIGN ONE CLOSET AT A TIME It’s easy to let it all go in the closet after you shut the door. Especially if you’re busy being productive or enjoying all the Emerald Coast has to offer. We collaborate with you to match your wants with your needs. Organizational challenges can actually be fun with an experienced guide there to think it through with you. Life is too short to spend it hunting for things you know you have, but you just can’t find. At Closet Solutions Florida, organizing is our passion. Ease goes hand-in-hand with a well-designed space.

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MASTER The average human

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PANTRY It’s so much easier

to figure out meals when all your supplies are easy to see and in close reach. Be well-equipped when your appetite begins to inspire you.

3.

MURPHY One of the advantages

of living on the Emerald Coast is people love to come visit. You don’t need a bigger house, you need a wall bed.

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June–July 2019 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

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abodes Your Monthly Garden Chores

GARDENING

BUG-EATING BATS DESERVE BETTER REP

JUNE

➸ Plant

sweet potatoes, melons and lima beans.

Sow seeds for okra, Swiss chard and roselle, also known as Jamaican sorrel and Florida cranberry.

➸ Check the trees on your

BY AUDREY POST, MS. GROW-IT-ALL®

TALK ABOUT A BAD RAP! For centuries, the poor bat (Chiroptera) has been trash-talked as a source

of rabies (only one-half of 1 percent carry the disease, according to a University of Florida Extension publication) and as an accomplice in nefarious exploits of the undead. And while a subspecies of bat commonly known as the vampire bat (Desmodus rotundus) does dine on mammal blood, it doesn’t take enough to harm the cattle and horses it usually feeds on, and it is confined to the tropics of Mexico and Central and South America — far from the Central European haunts of a certain count of English literature. There are good reasons to cut the bat some slack.

property to prepare for hurricane season. Consult a trained arborist certified by the International Society of Arboriculture, who can tell you whether your trees pose any danger to you or your home and what steps need to be taken, such as pruning, limb removal or tree removal.

➸ Prune azaleas, if you 1 Bats fly at night and eat lots

of bug pests, including roaches and mosquitoes! According to Bat Conservation International, a single brown bat can eat more than 1,000 insects in one night.

2 Bats also help pollinate plants in many ecosystems. More than 500 plant species, including mango, banana, cocoa, guava and agave, depend on bats to pollinate their flowers. While bees go for bright, daytime flowers, many of the plants pollinated by bats have large, pale flowers that open at night.

3 Habitat for bats, as for many

other wild creatures, continues to shrink as humans encroach. Bat habitat needs to be warm (they’re mammals); safe from predators; and to have a water source fairly close, so the mother bat doesn’t have to leave her babies for long.

4 The National Wildlife

Federation has detailed instructions on building a bat house on its website at nwf.org/ en/Garden-for-Wildlife/Cover/ Build-a-Bat-House. Show the bats some love, and they’ll return the favor.

haven’t already done so, through early July. After that, you risk removing flower buds for next spring’s bloom.

JULY

➸ Tomatoes you planted

in late winter/early spring likely have played out. Pull them up and compost the plants. Cherry and grape tomatoes can usually stand our summers and will continue to bear.

➸ Make sure your flowering

plants are getting sufficient water. That might mean watering hanging baskets twice a day.

Critter: Slugs and snails



Snails and slugs are both gastropod mollusks, with snails having PESKY a visible shell. Some slugs have shells, but they PESTS tend to be quite small or even internal. The vast majority of both slugs and snails live in the water.

Our terrestrial garden snails prefer hot, humid and shady environments. Both are nocturnal and will munch on your plants, leaving irregular holes in foliage and flowers. The damage SLUGS AND SNAILS resembles that done by other garden pests, such as beetles, grasshoppers and caterpillars, so it’s important to be sure what’s causing the problem before deciding on a solution. Look for the telltale snail shells or “slime” trails left by slugs to confirm their presence. Commercial concoctions are available, but they are quite toxic and pose a threat to pets and wildlife. Use plant debris and boards to “bait” the invaders, collecting them by hand the next morning and disposing of them in a sealed plastic bag. Deterrents with cinnamon oil as the active ingredient have proven effective.

Also, copper hydroxide used to control fungi and bacteria have been effective in reducing snail and slug activity, even though it is not labeled for that specific use. Personally, I bury a small bowl in the garden soil so the lip is at the soil level and fill it halfway with cheap beer.

The snails and slugs fall in but can’t get out, so they drown, perhaps happily.

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tolerant herbs including basil (Ocimum basilicum), which is available in many varieties, rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis) and Mexican tarragon (Tagetes lucida). French tarragon (Artemesia dracunculus) is ill-suited to our climate.

©2015-2019 PostScript Publishing LLC, 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.

PHOTOS BY MAHIRATES (SNAIL), FOTOGIUNTA (BASIL), EGAL (SWEET POTATO) / ISTOCK / GETTY IMAGES PLUS

➸ Plant heat-

GROUNDS MANAGEMENT • COMMERCIAL INSTALLATION RESIDENTIAL INSTALLATION • CONSULTATION AND DESIGN BAY LANDSCAPE 104 Estes Place Suite B, Panama City Beach, FL 32413 Phone (850) 249-0980 | Fax (850) 249-1005 www.bay-landscape.net

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SPONSORED REPORT

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SPONSORED REPORT

Waterscape pool at dusk is the perfect time to relax from a long day in one of the hot tubs or catch a movie by the pool, provided seasonally from our kids club.

Lazy Days

W

aterscape on Okaloosa Island is your ultimate resort for family fun and relaxation.

Picture yourself at one of the area’s most adventurous Gulf-front properties, set along 490 feet of pristine sugar-white sand and emerald green waters in the heart of Northwest Florida. Each unit at Waterscape is angled to maximize the breathtaking views of the Gulf of Mexico with floor-to-ceiling glass doors and windows to enhance the background when spending time in

the condo. The three gorgeous buildings that make up Waterscape surround a dramatic split-level courtyard with fantastic views of the property’s three beautiful swimming pools, waterfall lazy river and two hot tubs — all of this overlooking a stunning view of the Gulf of Mexico. In addition to these gorgeous amenities, tucked inside the courtyard, you will also find barbecue grills, trellis-covered tables, a children’s playground and a handicap-accessible boardwalk leading you directly to the Gulf.

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SPONSORED REPORT SPONSORED REPORT

Among thethe many many amenities amenities offered offered at at Among Waterscape a free seasonal beach service that Waterscape is ais free seasonal beach service that includes umbrella and beach chairs when includes anan umbrella and twotwo beach chairs when book your stay with ResortQuest Wyndham youyou book your stay with ResortQuest ByBy Wyndham Vacation Rentals.

Also included seasonal kids Vacation Rentals.

Also included areare seasonal kids clubamenities amenitiessuch suchas:as:create createyour yourown ownbear bear club workshops, tie-dye T-shirt making, movies workshops, tie-dye T-shirt making, movies by by thethe pool, airbrushed tattoos, hair wraps and shaved pool, airbrushed tattoos, hair wraps and shaved iceice name a few! …… to to name a few!

Whenyouyoustay stayat atWaterscape, Waterscape,youyouwillwillfind find When yourselfwithin withinwalking walkingdistance distanceof oflocally locally yourself owned restaurants serving fresh Gulfseafood, seafood, owned restaurants serving fresh Gulf a a boardwalk where shop, dine and enjoy boardwalk where youyou cancan shop, dine and enjoy livelive music, a fishing pier, nightlife, watersports and music, a fishing pier, nightlife, watersports and anan adventure zone including mini-golf, arcade, 4-D adventure zone including mini-golf, arcade, 4-D movie theatre, area’s largest arcade and even movie theatre, thethe area’s largest arcade and even a a display fireworks blasting every Wednesday display of of fireworks blasting offoff every Wednesday night 9 p.m. during summer. night at 9atp.m. during thethe summer. perfect scene your next getaway and SetSet thethe perfect scene forfor your next getaway and book your next family vacation, relaxing retreat book your next family vacation, relaxing retreat long weekend with ResortQuest Wyndham or or long weekend with ResortQuest by by Wyndham VacationRentals Rentalsat atWaterscape WaterscapeononOkaloosa Okaloosa Vacation Island——unrivaled unrivaledononthetheEmerald EmeraldCoast Coastforfor Island relaxation and fun. relaxation and fun.

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There is no shortage of water There is no shortage of water activities with three pools for activities three pools the more with active guests andfor a the active guests float. and a lazymore river for a relaxing lazy river for a relaxing float.

SPONSORED REPORT SPONSORED REPORT

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PROMOTION

DEAL ESTATE

JUST LISTED

Amazing Waterfront Property Offers a Private Oasis This breathtaking waterfront home is an absolute must-see if you’re looking for elegant living with comfort and style. Nestled on Lake Powell, Florida’s largest coastal dune lake in the gated Wild Heron community, this property is situated on a large cul-de-sac lot that provides serenity, spectacular beauty and unrivaled privacy. With six spacious bedrooms, five full bathrooms and two half-baths, this home boasts a sprawling amount of entertainment space and comfort.

LISTED PRICE: $2,749,000 ADDRESS: 1233 W. Water Oak Bend Road, Panama City Beach SQUARE FOOTAGE: 7,016 BEDROOMS: 6 BATHROOMS: 5 full; 2 half YEAR BUILT: 2005

APPEAL: The master suite is privately located with a tray ceiling, an indoor/outdoor gas fireplace and doors leading to the covered, screened patio that boasts a stunning view overlooking the picturesque grounds, pool and Lake Powell.

CONTACT INFORMATION: Counts Real Estate Group, Inc. Beth Mulvey, REALTOR® (256) 566-5482 Beth@countsrealestate.com Beth.Counts30A.com and Jason Oakes, Broker, (850) 819-4148 Jason@Countsrealestate.com Jason-Oakes@jasonoakes.com

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PHOTOS BY DON MCNARON REAL ESTATE PHOTOGRAPHY

FEATURES: Viking appliances; located on beautiful Lake Powell; pool overlooks the water; five-car garage with mother-in-law suite; theater room; private dock and boat lift; located at the private Shark’s Tooth Golf Club.

NATURE. BEAUTY. COMMUNITY.

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Make Your Realty Dreams a Reality Along the Emerald Coast COUNTS REAL ESTATE GROUP, INC.

30-A EMERALD COAST 5231 E. County Hwy 30-A, #100 21901 PCB Pkwy Santa Rosa Beach, FL Panama City Beach, FL (850) 231-1483 (850) 249-1414 CountsOn30A.com CountsEmeraldCoast.com

THOMAS DRIVE 2104 Thomas Drive Panama City Beach, FL (850) 249-3615 CountsRealEstate.com

PANAMA CITY 3009 Hwy 77, Suite H Panama City, FL (850) 248-3615 CountsPanamaCity.com

PROMOTION

DEAL ESTATE

SECOND HOME

Living Outside the Box Even “custom one-of-a-kind” and “stunning” are terms that do not do justice to this Gulf-front home that is truly outside the box. Located in Seaside, where New Urbanism was founded, this home will allow you to enjoy luxurious living just a short walk from the town center. Since 2003, the home has been impressing the likes of movie stars and prime ministers.

Amenities include a gourmet kitchen, screened porch, glassed terrace for unobstructed views of the Gulf, painted wood-plank walls and an elevator — all features that define this architecturally acclaimed threestory home.

SOLD/LISTED PRICE: $4,950,000 ADDRESS: 2112 E. County Highway 30A SQUARE FOOTAGE: 2,716; plus 1,800 porches BEDROOMS: 4 BATHROOMS: 6.5 YEAR BUILT: 2003

APPEAL: Located on the Gulf in the award-winning community of Seaside. The finely appointed living room flows onto another 20-by-26-foot Gulf-front porch with full view glass panels offering sweeping unobstructed views of the glistening turquoise waters and sugar white sands.

CONTACT INFORMATION: Seaside® Community Realty Inc., Santa Rosa Beach, realestate@seasidefl.com, (850) 231-2201

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PHOTOS BY 8 FIFTY PRODUCTIONS

FEATURES: Gulf-front in Seaside, three 20-by26-foot covered porches, gourmet kitchen, stainless steel and granite countertops, glassed terrace, painted wood plank walls, slate floors, vaulted exposed beam ceiling, two trellis parking spaces. Exquisitely appointed with a custom-built dining table and an all-weather pool table.

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Bellera is built to last. No surprises. No worries.

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Regional Production Manager 225 Main Street, Suite 14 Destin, FL 32541 Cell: 850.499.4759 balendahetzel@Inlanta.com Inlanta Mortgage, Inc. NMLS #1016. Florida License #MLD55. FL properties Only.

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PROMOTION

DEAL ESTATE

JUST LISTED

Welcome to Waterfront Bliss

by JAVIS OGDEN

Step out of the world that you know and into a world of Mediterranean wonder. This elegant, awe-inspiring chateau with its splendid architecture is located within Palmetto Lake Preserve on Santa Rosa Sound. It is the perfect abode for enjoying surroundings that present a unique blend of modernization and nature.

LISTED PRICE: $849,000 ADDRESS: 9369 Palmetto Ridge Court, Navarre SQUARE FOOTAGE: 2,297 BEDROOMS: 4 BATHROOMS: 3 YEAR BUILT: 2012

APPEAL: This stunning Mediterranean-inspired waterfront home sits majestically on the shores of the Santa Rosa Sound, with private beach and Gulf views, inside one of the few gated communities in Navarre.

This is a unique opportunity to purchase this custom home, built in 2012.

CONTACT INFORMATION: Rachel Simerly ResortQuest Real Estate RachelSellsDestin@gmail.com (855) 559-0805

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PHOTOS COURTESY OF RESORTQUEST BY WYNDHAM VACATION RENTALS

FEATURES: This home has been thoughtfully designed by local designer Doug Whitfield, meticulously maintained and is a true gem on the shores of Santa Rosa Sound. It includes a luxurious coastal open floor plan and seemingly endless outdoor living spaces for entertaining and relaxation.

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123 Marigot Bay Circle Miramar Beach, FL 32550 (850) 353-2586 crestridgeroofing.com EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM June–July 2019 139

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compiled by JAVIS OGDEN and REBECCA PADGETT

SOPCHOPPY 4TH OF JULY CELEBRATION

Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation

PHOTOS BY LAWRENCE DAVIDSON (PINNACLE AWARDS), JIM CLARK (BEST OF EC) AND THEERAPONG28 / ISTOCK / GETTY IMAGES PLUS (FIREWORKS) AND COURTESY OF MKAF

For more events in the EC, visit EmeraldCoastMagazine.com and 850tix.com.

JULY 4

APRIL 25–JUNE 27 SEPTEMBER 12–OCTOBER 10

The Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation, a champion of cultural arts and education for all in Northwest Florida, has announced the lineup for its 2019 series of come-as-you-are, familyfriendly concerts, held at the Mattie Kelly Cultural Arts Village at 4323 Commons Drive West in Destin.

Tickets are available at the gate, which opens at 6 p.m., and the music begins at 7. Attendees may enter a raffle to win prize packages that are awarded at intermission. Proceeds from the concert series help fund the foundation’s community outreach programs, which bring the arts to people who would otherwise not experience them.

JUN/JUL 2019

presented by Wakulla County Tourism Development Council → The Sopchoppy 4th of July Celebration, a longstanding Wakulla County tradition, kicks off in the morning on Independence Day with a parade through downtown, followed by an all-day-and-night festival featuring arts and crafts and food vendors at riverside Myron B. Hodge City Park. The evening is capped with a spectacular fireworks show that lights up the sky over the picturesque waterfront.

SAVE THE DATE

OCTOBER 19

BEST OF THE EMERALD COAST Taste, sip and experience the Best of the Emerald Coast at our 20th annual event, which showcases the businesses that our readers and community voted as “Best of.” The public is invited to Grand Boulevard for an evening of food, fun, fashion and entertainment, all to benefit the Junior League of the Emerald Coast.

The fun starts at 6 p.m. and lasts until 9 p.m. Tickets are $40 in advance and $50 the week of the event. VIP passes are $100 in advance and $115 the week of the event.

Visit EmeraldCoastMagazine.com/best-of-the-emerald-coast to purchase tickets or for more information.

Interested in becoming a Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation member? Learn more about the foundation at MattieKellyArtsFoundation.org/membership.html.

SAVE THE DATE

AUGUST 21

Pinnacle Awards 2019

→ Join us at the Holley Academic Center of Florida State University Panama City as we honor the 2019 class of Pinnacle Award recipients.

Karen Moore, past Pinnacle Award winner and founder and CEO of Moore Inc., a highly successful communications agency, will address the awards luncheon as keynote speaker.

For more information, visit 850businessmagazine.com/pinnacle-awards.

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THEATRE THURSDAYS MAY 30–AUG. 1 Bring your own chair or blanket, and Emerald Coast Theatre Company will provide the show.

Come out to Grand Park at Grand Boulevard each Thursday evening for free family-friendly performances. Before the show, come for kid’s crafts with Abrakadoodle. emeraldcoasttheatre.org

BILLY BOWLEGS PIRATE FESTIVAL MAY 31–JUNE 3 Ahoy mates! The legendary Billy Bowlegs and his gang will once again invade the shores of Fort Walton Beach. Scallywags of all ages are invited to partake in merriment including duels, pirate plunders, food, music and entertainment.

The festivities will commence with the Billy Bowlegs Torchlight Parade featuring over 100 floats with riders tossing doubloons and booty to the crowd. billybowlegsfestival.com

FIESTA OF FIVE FLAGS

visitpensacola.com

ANNUAL BILL HARGREAVES FISHING RODEO JUNE 13-16 This Pensacola fishing competition was started by its namesake, Bill Hargreaves. Fishing begins on Friday at the Grand Lagoon Yacht Club and continues until the final weighin on Saturday. Prizes are distributed after a mouth-watering fish fry on Sunday. There will be door prizes, a silent auction and fun for all. billhargreavesfishingrodeo.com

SISTER ACT JUNE 14-30 Pensacola Little Theatre brings to the stage a sparkling tribute to the universal power of female friendship in “Sister Act,” based off of the 1992 film.

Sing and dance along to this truly moving story featuring women of all ages and races. pensacolalittletheatre.com

JUNE 1

FISH HOUSE CRAFT BEER FEST

Join in a celebration featuring beads, bands and floats at the 69th annual Grand Fiesta Parade. High school marching bands and elaborately decorated floats throwing out beads will parade through the streets of downtown Pensacola.

The fiesta boat parade will take place in the morning on Pensacola Bay.

Offer cheers to beers at the 6th annual craft beer fest hosted on the Fish House Deck. The event will feature more than 50 different beers from local and regional breweries with a portion of the event proceeds benefitting Big Brothers/Big Sisters of Northwest Florida.

fiestapensacola.org/events

BANDS ON THE BEACH JUNE 4-OCTOBER 29 Bring your beach chairs and beach blankets for a night under the stars listening to the tunes of local bands. Gulfside

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO

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Pavilion brings the groove back to Tuesdays.

JUNE 14

greatsouthernrestaurants.com

LIVE ON MARS: A TRIBUTE TO DAVID BOWIE JUNE 16 The very best music from pop icon David

Bowie will be presented at Pensacola’s Saenger Theatre. This enlivening show will capture the egos, creative muses and top hits of this legendary performer. pensacolasaenger.com

BLUE MARLIN CLASSIC JUNE 19-23 The Emerald Cost Blue Marlin Classic is a premier fishing tournament that attracts top blue-water anglers who compete in the four-day tournament with categories for billfish, tuna, wahoo and more. All are invited to witness weighins and enjoy live music, cooking demonstrations, seafood, fireworks and more. The event takes place at Sandestin and is presented by Wind Creek Casino & Hotel-Atmore. fishecbc.com

2019 BUD LIGHT FISHING RODEO JUNE 21 – 24 Cash prizes await the anglers who weigh in the top three fish in 20 different categories. Prizes will also be awarded to the boat that brings in the biggest mackerel.

The weigh-in and event activities will take place on Saturday at Flounders on Pensacola Beach. pensacolasports.org/ pensacolafishingrodeo/

ANOTHER BRICK IN THE WALL JUNE 21 Brit Floyd, the world’s greatest Pink Floyd tribute show, comes to the Pensacola Saenger stage with its most ambitious production yet, a 40th anniversary retrospective of Pink Floyd’s iconic rock opera, “The Wall.” Rock along to hits from one of the best selling albums of all time. pensacolasaenger.com

Details of listings can change at the last minute. Please call ahead of time to confirm.

June–July 2019 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

SMOKE ON THE COAST JULY 3 BBQ lovers unite to enjoy $1 samples from 18 area restaurants and BBQ groups. All money raised will be donated to local charities. Attendees have the opportunity to vote for their favorites; the top vote-getter wins the People’s Choice Award. destincommons.com

skilled, professional dancers from Red Hot Productions. pensacolasaenger.com

BLUE ANGELS AIR SHOW JULY 13 The Blue Angels fly home to Pensacola Beach! Keep your eye on the sky to witness elite Naval aviators showcase their piloting skills in choreographed team flights. naspensacolaairshow.com

ONCE UPON A SHOE JULY 19-26

↑ RED, WHITE & BAYTOWNE JULY 4 Enjoy fun in the sun during the day, and light up your night with fireworks. The Village of Baytowne Wharf will host an Independence Day celebration featuring live music, crafts, face painting, family activities and of course, fireworks! baytownewharf.com

HARBORWALK 4TH OF JULY JULY 4 Celebrate Independence Day with the sparkle and sizzle of an impressive fireworks display at HarborWalk Village. Live music, entertainment and food will be available throughout the evening. emeraldgrande.com

MICHAEL JACKSON: A THRILLING TRIBUTE JULY 12 Michael Jackson: A THRILLING Tribute featuring Falynne Lewing and her team of highly

Kids and parents alike will delight as children enact eight of Mother Goose’s favorite poems. Be prepared to laugh as Mother Goose announces to her children that they must leave their home, a large shoe, and move to an old sneaker. pensacolalittletheatre.com

PENSACOLA BEER WEEK JULY 22-28 The second annual Pensacola Beer Week will take place at local beer hot spots in downtown Pensacola. Sip, sample and get great deals during this week dedicated to craft beer appreciation. visitpensacola.com/event/ pensacola-beer-week REGIONAL

FIRST FRIDAY SIP AND STROLL AUG. 2 Sip, stroll, shop, dine and listen to some great music in Downtown Thomasville, Georgia. Participating shops and restaurants will be open late and you can grab a glass of wine from Farmer’s Daughter Vineyards.

HAVE AN EVENT YOU’D LIKE US TO CONSIDER? Send an email to ec-calendar@rowlandpublishing.com.

PHOTO COURTESY OF SANDESTIN GOLF AND BEACH RESORT

calendar

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PROMOTION

SPORTING EVENTS — WORTH THE DRIVE F​ rom festivals and tours to sports and the arts, ​the event and entertainment choices are endless.

For more events in the 850 area, visit 850Tix.com.

Introducing TALLAHASSEE SOCCER CLUB Tallahassee’s newest sports franchise kicked off in May. If you haven’t heard about Tallahassee Soccer Club or haven’t seen a home game at the FSU main campus fields, then you are missing out. The men’s team features local players from our community, all representing the capital city in the Gulf Coast Premier League.

Tickets are available now for all of the home games listed below.

For more info, visit TLHSoccerClub.com.

BOUT THE CLUB

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llahassee Soccer Club is a non-profit, men's, te-amateur soccer TLHSC team. We are run by a volunteer TLHSC ard focused on bringing vs. the best talent together from vs.

CITY FC of a family-friendly AFC MOBILE e Leon County areaPORT to play in front mosphere, funded by community members.

JUN

JUN

Come out and cheer on the The Battle Lions welcome Battle Lions as they take on one AFC Mobile and their amazing llahasseeof SC begin play in the spring of to Tallahassee. thewill best teamsseason in the GCPL! fan support

019. There are exciting opportunities to join a national ague with multiple teams within a five-hour radius of llahassee. Coaches, players, and league decisions will made in the coming months, and members will be the st to know about the latest information.

06 JUL

TLHSC vs.

HATTIESBURG FC

LAST HOME GAME OF THE YEAR! Come out and give your support for the Battle Lions at their last home game of the year.

LOCAL TICKETS. ONE PLACE. Get tickets to these events now at 850Tix.com.

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Alexandra Wells and Alexa Guarachi

Recover Like a Pro CRYO850 offers advanced, drug-free technology for health, performance and recovery including the only nitrogen-free Whole Body Cryotherapy Chamber in North Florida: The Emerald Coast Igloo.

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Sharing knowledge with satisfied homeowners.

At BB&T, our local lenders keep us close to our clients. And our commitment to outstanding service helps make buying a home a little easier. So when you’re looking to buy, build, renovate or refinance a home, look first to BB&T. Our door is always open to share more than 145 years of financial knowledge – helping thousands of clients open doors of their own. Let’s get started today. BBT.com/Mortgage

Jean Jackson Crews Mortgage Loan Officer 850-865-5326 JJCrews@BBandT.com NMLS# 12345

B A N K I N G

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I N S U R A N C E

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Branch Banking and Trust Company is a Member FDIC and an Equal Housing Lender.

Loans are subject to credit approval. Only deposit products are FDIC insured.

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The Emerald Coast region merges the allure of tourism, the bustle of developing businesses and the comfort of family-oriented communities. These cities provide our homes, our workplaces and our sources of enjoyment. All along these coastal towns we have come to savor the flavor of our favorite restaurants, entrusted our hairstylists with the latest do, found our favorite sunset spots for sipping cocktails, planned our weekend activities at the local parks and sought care from our trusted physicians. Valued aspects of our lives are enhanced by the businesses from which we seek services. For delivering to you quality products, exceptional customer service and cherished experiences, they deserve recognition. As a way to express your gratitude, nominate your favorite businesses and cast your ballot for the 2019 Best of the Emerald Coast awards.

BEN EF I T I N G

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S PO NS O RE D BY

CAST YOUR VOTE ONLINE EmeraldCoastMagazine.com/Best-of-the-Emerald-Coast-2019Ballot

Online voting period June 1–July 15, 2019 Must use unique code to vote*

O N L I N E B A L LOT B R O U G H T TO YO U BY

PRESENT ED BY

On our website (see link at top of page) we’ve made 15 categories available for anyone to vote on without the unique code. *To access the full ballot and vote in all 180 categories will require the unique code inserted in Emerald Coast Magazine to unlock the categories.

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SOCIAL STUDIES Seaside School Half Marathon & 5K MAR. 1–3 The annual half marathon and 5K, along with a “Taste of the Race” reception, attracted approximately 3,700 runners and 12,000 weekend guests to Seaside. More than $515,000 was raised during the weekend.

Proceeds benefitted the Seaside School, a tuition-free neighborhood charter school serving students across Walton County, and Panama City’s Chautauqua Learn & Serve Charter School, which serves students with disabilities.

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PHOTOS COURTESY OF LESLIE WOOD

1 Smith Reaves and Aidan Vaughan 2 Piper Kurfirst, Gipson Crye, Henry Crye, Peter Hampton Brasfield, Braeden Aronson, Parker Jackson and Gavin Chick 3 Start of the half marathon 4 Reese Carter, Georgiana Watson, Olivia Schafer, Hargett Martin and Luke Salter

Northwest Florida Weddings Magazine Cover Party

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MAR. 27

Immersed in the elegant surroundings of The Henderson Beach & Spa Resort, guests sipped lavender champagne, sampled items from the resort’s catering menu and enjoyed a variety of experiences created by participating vendors. John Gandy Events provided staging, Sunquest Cruises prepared floral arrangements, and Mingle designed balloon art and more. Visit northwestfloridaweddings.net/pop-upparty-entertains-guests-with-a-dreamyreception/ for a full recap.

PHOTOS BY RHONDA MURRAY

1 Haley Gulliebeau and Scott Lassiter 2 David Kirk and Carolyn Brigman 3 Marta Herrera, Kristi Adkinson, Kristi Summerlin, Nicole Manard, Kevin O’Rourke, Illiana Lopez and James Murray 4 Jessica Proffitt Bracken, Kevin O’Rourke and Jamie McDowell

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JOSEPH A. PEDONE, MD, FACC, FACP, FSCAI, CDDR Interventional Cardiologist MICHAEL L. YANDEL, MD, FACC, FSCAI Interventional Cardiologist JUAN C. ZARATE, MD, FACC, FSCAI Interventional Cardiologist ANTHONY S. AL-DEHNEH, DO, FACC, FSCAI Interventional Cardiologist ANGEL D. MORROBEL, MD, FACC Invasive Cardiologist AJIT H. JANARDHAN, MD, PhD, FACC, FHRS Cardiac Electrophysiologist MARCELLO A. BORZATTA, MD, FACS, FSCAI Endovascular Surgeon

Best Cardiologist

Providing current, comprehensive health care in the diagnosis, prevention and treatment of heart problems, since 1991, Okaloosa Heart & Vascular Center offers a full range of integrated cardiac services, from patient education through inpatient care, including: Clinical Cardiology and Consultation, Echocardiography, Vascular Ultrasound, Exercise Testing, Holter and Event Monitoring, Nuclear Cardiac Imaging, Cardiac Catheterization, Coronary Angioplasty, Intra-Coronary Stenting, Endovascular Surgery, Limb Salvage and Cardiac Electrophysiology. With 4 interventional cardiologists, 1 endovascular surgeon, 1 cardiac electrophysiologist, 1 invasive cardiologist and 6 local offices to serve you, the staff is committed to exploring new technologies and techniques that provide better ways to care for their patients, and to treating each patient like a person rather than a diagnosis.

Destin Niceville 36468 Emerald Coast Parkway 552 Twin Cities Boulevard Suite 1101 Suite A Destin, FL 32541 Niceville, FL 32578 850-424-5638 850-279-4426

Niceville 2600 Partin Drive Suite 110 Niceville, FL 32578 850-279-4426

Fort Walton Beach Crestview Defuniak Springs 1032 Mar Walt Drive 129 Redstone Ave. 1045 US Highway 331 S. Suite 110 Suite A Defuniak Springs, FL 32435 Fort Walton Beach, FL 32547 Crestview, FL 32539 850-682-7212 850-862-1753 850-682-7212

www.OkaloosaHeart.com

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“ADHD is terrible.”

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Telepsychiatry Available Mental Health Services

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PROMOTION

SOCIAL STUDIES South Walton Beaches Wine and Food Festival APR. 26–28 A roster of dozens of celebrity winemakers, distillers, chefs, brewmasters and entertainers dazzled the crowd at the sixth annual South Walton Beaches Wine & Food Festival at Grand Boulevard. Throughout the venue, guests enjoyed a variety of attractions including Spirits Row, Rose All Day Garden, Savor South Walton Culinary Village, Nosh Pavilions, Tasting Seminars and more.

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PHOTOS COURTESY OF STACEY BRADY

uests at the festival enjoyed a selection of over G 800 wines provided by wine industry insiders, all while raising a glass and raising money for the Destin Charity Wine Auction Foundation.

We Love Our Members!

ON THE 2019 BALLOT EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

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Serving the Emerald Coast since 1985, Newman-Dailey Resort Properties is an active community steward with a reputation for honesty, integrity, and exceptional service.

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SP O NSO R ED R E P O RT

S T O R I E S from the

HEART

INSPIRING STORIES OF PEOPLE HELPING PEOPLE The life-changing care Sacred Heart Health System provides has touched the hearts of many who strive to ensure that this incredible mission of care continues for future generations. Sacred Heart Foundation is proud to be a partner in this endeavor. Please enjoy these “Stories from the Heart.”

PR E SENTE D BY

J UNE / JU LY 2 0 19

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SPONSORED REPORT

from the

HEART

Ashley and Dan Livingston with son, Jabyn

JABYN LIVINGSTON: LETTING HOPE ARISE

One special boy’s legacy creates a haven for kids with special needs

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Although his time here was too brief, Jabyn Livingston changed the world — not only for his family but also for the thousands of people touched by his story.

For the first year of his life, the little boy met all his milestones. But by 16 months, his parents, Brad and Ashley, began to notice some delays. Jabyn started falling a lot, he wasn’t seeing well and he would often stare blankly.

The family met with a neurologist who said the blank stares were caused by seizures, and was certain he had suffered an injury at birth. A second specialist confirmed the findings, but assured them Jabyn would be fine with continued rehab.

His parents weren’t convinced. When they met Sacred Heart’s Dr. Sara Anne Winchester — who they consider “a gift from God” — the family found answers.

Having researched it during her residency at Duke University, Dr. Winchester tested Jabyn for Batten Disease, a rare terminal neurological disorder. (So rare, the Livingstons say, a dozen other neurologists didn’t even know what it was.)

When she called after the test, the doctor confirmed their deepest fear. Jabyn was only 2½ years old. The Livingstons weren’t ready to give up.

“From that point forward, with a heart full of hope, and believing deeply that God can do anything, we were really just trying to do everything we could,” Brad says.

SPONSORED REPORT

A MESSAGE FROM CAROL CARLAN

Carol Carlan President, Sacred Heart Foundation

“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it’s the only thing that ever does,” says Margaret Mead.

It’s one of my favorite quotes that I reflected on while reading this issue, because the underlying theme is hope. It’s a powerful force that opens the door to future possibilities. In 2017, the Foundation officially launched the campaign to build a brand-new children’s hospital — much like Sister Carol Keehan, a Daughter of Charity, and three committed physicians did in 1969, when they wanted to elevate better care for children in our region. Our fuel was hope, and you responded. Through generous support, both local and beyond, the new Studer Family Children’s Hospital celebrated 50 years of caring for children on April 1.

The new healthcare facility, built for our smallest patients in mind, will serve children across 16 counties and beyond. The $30 million raised came from committed groups, such as Heroes for Hope, Cordova Mall Ball, UWF Students and committed Board members and donors. The result is better care for our children, as Brad and Ashley Livingston’s story reflects on the “professional loving care” that their little boy Jabyn received.

It is no doubt that a group of thoughtful, committed citizens can truly change the world.

With Dr. Winchester by their side, the Livingstons looked into tests and trials, but none were specific to Jabyn’s disease. Still, they never gave up hope, spending much of the time they had left with Jabyn at the Studer Family Children’s Hospital at Sacred Heart — up to 21 days at a time, including many holidays.

Jabyn’s mobility was very limited, and he was prone to seizures. As a result, he wore a heart and oxygen monitor at all times.

Sometimes, the seizures would last an entire minute. He would stop breathing, and his body would cease to function.

“We took it one day at a time, because we never knew what the day would bring,” says Jabyn’s grandpa, Dan. “You did whatever you could to live as happily and peacefully as possible, and just loved on him as much as you could.”

Through it all, Jabyn never stopped smiling.

“You could tell he was just fighting and being tough for everyone,” his grandma, Cathy, adds. “He was stuck with all of us loving and kissing on him.”

There was a lot of medication. There were cell phone reminders to give him the five syringes needed to prevent his seizures. Few people could stay with him, other than his parents and grandparents, and an amazing babysitter, also named Ashley.

Jabyn’s grandfather stepped aside at Transformation Church to let Brad become Lead Pastor. This was good for both men — Brad needed a distraction, and Dan’s heart was always with his only grandson.

“The only way I can explain it to people is when you think you’ve left the oven on, that feeling of needing to go home because something is wrong,” Brad shares. “It’s like living like that for years, except it’s not your oven … it’s your son.”

Time at home was treasured. Grandpa, an avid bow hunter, would take Jabyn on special “hunts,” holding him in his lap while they watched hunting videos. Jabyn couldn’t see, but he could hear. His grandfather would tell him when the deer was coming and when it was time to pull back his bow.

At a hunting camp in Kentucky, Dan has a two-man deer stand called “Jabyn’s Stand,” with one seat reserved for his beloved grandson.

The day before the funeral, when he had a few hours alone with Jabyn, he told him to come to him in his dreams to let him know he was OK. “The very next night, I had a dream where kids were throwing balls in an open field, running and playing,” Dan says. “When he got close enough and I saw his face, he grabbed me around the leg and said, ‘Hey, PawPaw.’ And it hit me … he was finally getting to do what he was supposed to do.”

Everyone who met Jabyn says he had a way of letting you know he was all right. He knew when you were hurting, and he would brighten your day with his incredible smile.

Ashley says the hospital extended the family a lot of grace, knowing when to be there and when to give them space. “They were so professional and loving and caring,” she shares. “There were times they would give us an extra day, when I just knew in my heart we shouldn’t leave.”

As a pastor, Brad has been in a lot of hospital rooms. “There’s always a sense that the nurses are doing what they believe is right for their patients, but you don’t often see them paying as much attention to the parents. They really trusted her instincts.”

Jabyn passed away when he was just 5 years old. This precious little boy had received many generous gifts throughout his fight, and the Livingstons chose to donate all the unopened

toys and books back to the Children’s Hospital in his honor.

At the funeral, Brad asked all those who helped him medically to stand up — and was overcome with emotion to see at least 30 nurses and doctors there.

The only word Jabyn ever said was “Dada,” and his Dada has a tattoo of the sound wave on his arm. “I’ve never seen someone impact so many people without saying a word,” Brad says. “Jabyn opened our eyes … his life has left a legacy.”

The experience of caring for a child with special needs led the family to open what they call “The Haven” at their church, with rooms for autistic children, kids with sensory issues, focus rooms and more. Because of Jabyn, more havens have opened up around the country — and even around the world.

“If we get to impact people’s lives because of our boy, that’s what we want,” Brad says.

“Jabyn’s life let hope arise. To watch his story breathe hope into people’s lives, that’s what will continue to carry us.”

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HEROES FOR HOPE CHARITY STREAM Gamers show their support #ForTheKids

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During the Pensacon event in February 2019, three professional video gamers showed their support for the Studer Family Children’s Hospital at Sacred Heart by encouraging their followers to donate money through the Heroes for Hope Charity Stream.

Jason Thomson, head of logistics for Pensacon, partnered with popular Twitch streamers James Werk, GSXR Clyde and Gernader Jake to put on the event, which raised $34,000 this year — for a grand total of $57,000 donated to the Children’s Hospital since 2017.

Thomson, who co-founded the Heroes for Hope Charity Stream, has been gaming his entire life. (He started playing an Atari racing game on an old black-and-white TV.) But when streaming came along, he says he discovered the meaning of community.

“Hope is something all humans are entitled to,” Thomson shares.

“It’s such a simple thing, really. But in dark times, that hope is often hard to see. If the money we raise can provide hope for even one person, then it’s all worth it.”

Gaming can also see hospitalized children through the dark times, when they may feel helpless and isolated.

“For so many of us, gaming is an escape from reality. It’s a chance to leave behind the worries of real life and to explore this beautiful and unique universe that someone has created,” Thomson explains.

“For a child going through a difficult time, this can be even more important. Inside the game world can be the one place they still have control and get to make all the decisions.”

Werk has participated in many different charity streams, but he says Heroes for Hope felt different.

“As you reach out in a grassroots effort to what can be millions of people worldwide, the potential to raise money #ForTheKids is unlimited,” he says. “I really like the idea of helping kids all over the world, but any time we are given an opportunity to also support local kids, that really hits a special place in my heart — having my own kids, family members and friends in the local community.”

Dr. James Patterson, Medical Director for the Children’s Hospital, had the opportunity to attend the Heroes for Hope event after coming off a 30-hour shift taking care of our community’s kids.

“I’m nobody famous, but I got to speak from the heart about a cause and an institution that I care deeply about and instantly got to see the response of gamers across the world as they donated hundreds of dollars within minutes,” he shares. “I’m so grateful to these three men, the Heroes for Hope team that supports them, the Pensacon group that puts on a bigger, better production every year … and, of course, our own fantastic Sacred Heart crew who worked tirelessly to make this miracle happen.”

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Jodin, age 9, playing video games in the Studer Family Chidren’s Hospital

Emily Ioakim, Will Condon, and Adrienne Maygarden in the Children’s hospital with Twitch streamers, Gernader Jake and James Werk.

SPONSORED REPORT

SACRED HEART

Mallory Studer with husband, Rick Appleyard

HAS MY HEART Mallory Studer

M

Mallory Studer knows first-hand what a difference accessibility to a child-centered hospital — such as The Studer Family Children’s Hospital — can make for a community and its visitors. She was in the fourth grade when her family went tent camping in Deadwood Gulch, South Dakota. As her brother, Mike, who was in the first grade, kicked a soccer ball and went to retrieve it, he was crushed by a bobcat dirt mover whose driver did not see the small boy.

After paramedics resuscitated him, he was taken to a 15-bed critical access hospital, then transferred to the pediatric intensive care unit of another hospital some distance away. Mallory recalls how grateful her parents, Quint and Rishy Studer, were that Mike was going to get the treatment there that he needed to survive the trauma.

“Children are not tiny adults,” Mallory says. “There is a big difference between giving a child care and an adult care.” The new Children’s Hospital will provide the kind of reassurance that all parents need — that their child is in the right place. The community and vacationers alike will not have to face transferring that child out of the area for trauma or specialized care.

Mallory is passionate about people, education in all forms, the arts, healthcare and innovation. She has served as a volunteer for numerous nonprofit groups. “I am blessed with so many opportunities that it would be remiss of me not to give back to the community. It is important to pay it forward.”

She sits on the boards of the local PBS station (WSRE) and Autism Pensacola. “I’ve worked with Autism Pensacola quite a bit, helping and giving them the extra love and attention they deserve.” Additionally, she has volunteered at Big Brothers Big Sisters, Take Stock in Children, Habitat for Humanity and Impact 100.

She adds, “It is my privilege also to serve on The Sacred Heart Foundation Board because the work it does directly enhances the care that Sacred Heart delivers. Every penny the foundation raises absolutely goes to improving equipment, facilities and delivery of care.

“To me, the Ascension partnership is a unique asset. I travel often, and it is nice to know I am connected to a whole network.

“We are lucky to have three hospitals in the area, but Sacred Heart has my heart.”

Today, Mallory works for the Studer Bodacious Family of Shops, while pursuing a master’s degree in Marketing and Business at the University of Wisconsin Whitewater. She is married to Rick Appleyard.

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STORIES from the

HEART

A PATRIARCH EXTRAORDINAIRE Dr. John Webb

D

Dr. John B. Webb was a man of many varied accomplishments, but his daughter, Dr. Judy Ring, will tell you that his greatest achievement — without a doubt — was his role as a father. It was defined by unconditional love and a lifestyle that always put his family at the forefront of all he did.

Upon returning to his native Pensacola after serving as an Army captain in World War II, Dr. Webb earned a degree in animal husbandry at the University of Florida and then was accepted to Auburn University’s veterinary medicine program. The family moved there, where they lived in a tiny two-bedroom house. At that time, there were five children 9 years old and under, who slept in one room they called “the dormitory.”

“The dining room table was a sawhorse with a plank across it, and the chairs were empty vegetable and fruit wooden boxes,” Dr. Ring said.

We were poor as field mice, but we didn’t mind. We were so happy.

We always had enough food and a roof over our heads and we knew how

Dr. John Webb with family on his 100th birthday celebration

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much our parents loved us. Every night before dinner, Dad read from the Bible. I will never be grateful enough for that foundation.”

After obtaining his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine, Dr. Webb moved the family back to Pensacola and started his practice, also serving as Greyhound Park’s veterinarian.

He toiled long hours (“He was the most ‘workingest’ man you ever met,” says Judy.), but he always made sure his children were part of his life in some way — be it going flounder fishing at night in the bay, playing cards when he came home late after an extended work day, having them help out at his clinic or always attending church as a family on Sunday mornings.

Judy remembers her dad as a gregarious man who loved people and liked to entertain and cook. He and brother Adrian started a successful barbecue restaurant using a recipe he developed from a family reunion cookout.

As the years went by, his extended family grew. Judy recalls one Christmas Eve dinner attended by 85 relatives.

When a 6-year-old nephew was diagnosed with leukemia and treated successfully at Sacred Heart’s Children’s Hospital, Dr. Webb became a great supporter of that hospital and a generous donor.

He was under hospice care when he “slipped peacefully away” — a few days after his 100th birthday celebration on Jan. 17, 2019, which was attended by over 350 people.

It was a most appropriate send-off for a person who cared deeply about people. He will be missed.

SPONSORED REPORT

SOPHIA’S STORY How a new NICU will make a big difference for our smallest patients

S

Summer Rasnick was only 33 weeks pregnant when her water broke.

Her husband Andrew, a firefighter, was on duty. Having experienced a normal pregnancy, it came as a total shock to both.

Driving to the hospital, Summer’s friend asked where she wanted to go. Although she had planned to deliver elsewhere, Summer and Dr. Erika Schneider, made the decision to head to Sacred Heart — the only Children’s Hospital in the region.

Although the doctors tried to slow it down, pumping steroids to strengthen the baby’s lungs, Summer’s labor progressed quickly.

When Sophia was born, all expectations went out the window. Her father didn’t even get to hold her. The nurses put the baby on her mother’s chest briefly, but the sound of her cry concerned them.

“I didn’t know what to expect at Sacred Heart. I didn’t realize the NICU staff are right there in the room, just in case,” Summer recalls.

“They are so quiet and so quick. You really appreciate that when you need it.”

Luckily, Sophia was pink, she was warm, and she was crying. Her lungs just needed a little more time.

“Sophia is a little pistol,” her mom says, with a laugh. “She came into this world with a purpose and on her own terms — and we learned pretty quickly that being a parent, you can’t plan anything.”

At only 4 pounds and 5 ounces, Sophia didn’t have the stamina to breastfeed or even take a bottle at first. The family was in the Level 3 NICU for a week before moving to Level 2, where they would stay for a few days.

A few days into the Rasnicks’ stay, a nurse came in to inform Summer that Sophia would need a CT scan. Doctors thought perhaps her head had fused too soon. They outlined the worst-case scenario, explaining she might need surgery at just 3 months old.

Because of the set-up of the NICU at the time, this news was delivered publicly. Summer retreated to a nursing room before she let herself break down and cry.

“I’m really happy the NICU is getting private rooms. It is good to have some camaraderie, but there is a need for privacy in those moments,” Summer says.

When the day of the scan arrived, it was a frightening ordeal for the new family of three.

“When your child is so small and so new to the world and so fragile, you don’t want to expose them to anything,” says Sophia’s dad, Andrew. “You don’t want them getting sick, you don’t want

Sophia in NICU with dad, Andrew

them exposed to radiation … that will be the great thing about the new scanner.”

Plans for private rooms and the region’s only pediatric CT scanner — which will eliminate the need for sedation and perform scans in seconds — will make a huge difference to the Children’s Hospital’s littlest patients.

A relief to her parents, Sophia’s scan turned out to be precautionary.

“I know the equipment is very costly, but it’s definitely an investment that is worthwhile,” Summer says. It’s such a difficult time, so if you can have a higher level of comfort, it makes a big difference.”

Leaving Sophia was the hardest part. When mothers are healthy, they can stay only three days in the hospital, while their babies remain in the NICU. But the Rasnicks quickly realized the nurses at the Studer Family Children’s Hospital truly become family.

“They are angels,” Andrew says. “They take care of the parents just as much as they take care of the kids.”

Now 6 months old, Sophia is hitting all her milestones and keeping her parents on their toes.

“As locals, we’re very thankful that we have the Children’s Hospital — and we’re thankful the Ronald McDonald House is here for those who need it,” Summer says. “It was nice that we were able to go sleep in our own bed, that we have this kind of care in our own community.”

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HEART

HEROES FOR HOPE AT PENSACON We extend our heartfelt thanks for our Heroes for Hope gamers — James Werk, GSXR Clyde, and Gernaderjake — plus Pensacon and donors for being heroes for the children and families in the care of the Studer Family Children’s Hospital.

Live from Pensacon, our celebrity gamers hosted a three-day charity stream on Twitch at twitch.tv/heroesforhope to raise more than $34,000 for the kids.

24TH ANNUAL CORDOVA MALL BALL

UNIVERSITY OF WEST FLORIDA DANCE MARATHON They came. They saw. They danced for those that can’t. The University of West Florida Dance Marathon Student Executive Board hosted a 10-hour Dance Marathon benefitting the Studer Family Children’s Hospital, your local Children’s Miracle Network Hospital. Dance Marathon is a national movement uniting colleges, universities and high school students. Through the experience, students spend a year gaining leadership skills and a connection to our Children’s Hospital. We thank the University of West Florida Dance Marathon program for raising $55,261 for the kids!

Thank you to the Krewe of Les Petits Enfants (Cordova Mall Ball committee), sponsors, participating restaurants, military volunteers and Cordova Mall Ball attendees for making a big difference in the lives of children and families in the care of the Studer Family Children’s Hospital. The 24th annual Cordova Mall Ball raised the largest amount to-date, totaling $568,226 and allowing us to fully fund the $1.1 million state-of-the-art Pediatric CT Scanner for the new Studer Family Children’s Hospital.

This life-changing piece of equipment can safely scan a child in seconds, eliminating the need for sedation and reducing radiation exposure. Thank you for your continued support and dedication of this event and our children.

ABOUT THE SACRED HEART FOUNDATION Since 1915, Sacred Heart Health System has been at the heart of healing for Northwest Florida and South Alabama. Like our founders, the Daughters of Charity, Sacred Heart is dedicated to providing quality, compassionate healthcare to the citizens of our regions, regardless of their ability to pay. This steadfast commitment to our community could not have been achieved without the support and generosity of the thousands of individuals, businesses and organizations that have donated to Sacred Heart Foundation.

Through this charitable giving, Sacred Heart Foundation has been able to provide millions of dollars of free and low-cost healthcare to the poor, uninsured, under-insured and low-income families. With the help of generous donors, we are proud to partner in Sacred Heart’s mission of care along the Gulf Coast.

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headquartered in Florida, and there’s a lot of good programs, so we’re going to do a Governor’s Cup. Instead of it being Republicans vs. Democrats like we did in the Congress, I think we’re going to do executive branch vs. the legislative branch, so I’ve talked to (state Senate) President (Bill) Galvano and (House Speaker Jose) Oliva, and they’re on board to do it.”

The governor on a note he found from predecessor Rick Scott: A: “When I showed up the first day and sat behind the desk, the only thing that was in there was a note, just basically wishing me well and giving me advice. He was reflecting on eight years, and I think basically was like, look, there are a lot of things that can happen. There’s going to be a lot of things that you just can’t control; just focus on the things that you can do to be the best governor that you can. I think that’s good advice.”

The governor on how he met the first lady: A: “I was in the Navy. I was stationed in Naval Station Mayport in Northeast Florida. She was working as a TV reporter, and we both just happened to go to hit golf balls one day. Just randomly, we were hitting next to each other on the driving range, and someone had left a half-hit bucket of balls. So we’re looking, wondering who’s going to take the extra bucket of balls.

We decided to split them. We started talking and went out after that, and we started dating. We didn’t get introduced or anything. We just happened to be at the driving range at the same time.”

The first lady on having been a nationalchampion equestrian rider (And on a playful question about whether she could keep horses at the Governor’s Mansion): A: “No. I hung up those stirrups a long time ago. It was fun to do while growing up, but now I’m of the mind that when much is given, much is expected, so I go back to that role of service and doing what I can to support the people of this state. There’s some time here, and I want to maximize that. So no horses in the backyard for now.” EC

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Not to mention Jennifer’s 24/7 devotion to both puppies and prospective buyers.

Future owners can’t visit their pup prior to its six-week checkup (parasites, particularly coccidia from foreign environments, are often fatal for litters), but pictures, videos and updates are readily available upon request.

“People correspond with Jennifer months before a litter’s even due,” says Billy. “It’s like she’s their best friend! She’ll be up until 11 at night sometimes just chatting away, and I’ll have to drag her off Facebook.”

He’s not sure how people go about choosing a puppy they’ve never met, but most do. Rarely, buyers have fallen for another upon arrival and made the switch.

Clients hail from all over the Southeast, but the Mayos refuse to inflict upon their babies the stress of shipping by air; they will either deliver the puppy or meet you halfway.

“We’ve had people complain about the prices and say some pretty nasty things,” Jennifer says. “But for us, it’s never been about breeding and selling. It’s always been about taking care of that animal and seeing it go to a good home.”

Though, with doodles, you often wonder who’s caring for whom.

Jennifer reveals in discussing her struggles with anxiety and depression why she found Bailey irresistible.

“She just knew,” Jennifer explains. “If I was about to have a panic attack, she’d just lay her head on me. She helped me so much, and I knew it was something I had to give back to other people.”

Once a year, the Mayos donate a doodle to a family in need. To prevent scams, contenders must supply a note from the doctor to prove there is a need and agree to have the puppy trained as a therapy dog.

Last year’s recipient, a 2-year-old boy who suffered from a mood disorder that produced frequent tantrums and outbursts of anger, took to the doodle immediately.

“Calmed him right down,” says Billy. “If there’s ever a need, we’re not going to turn someone down over some money. You sell three or four out of the litter, make back your money and you’re left with some wiggle room to help people out. Seeing their faces light up when they meet their new dogs is priceless.” EC

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Materiales de la Universidad son disponibles en Española llamando a la Oficina de Admisiones de Northwest Florida State College al 850-678-5111.

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dining guide 4607 Legendary Marina Drive, Destin.

(850) 710-5858. $$ L D

AMERICAN Casual, beach-front dining. Open daily 11 am–10 pm. 4009 S. Sandestin Blvd., Miramar Beach. (850) 267-4800. $$ L D

Steak, seafood, pasta, soups, salads and desserts. Lunch Mon-Fri 11 am–2 pm, dinner Mon–Sat from 5 pm. Closed Sun. 157 SE Brooks St., Fort Walton Beach. (850) 302-0266. $$ L D

BUFFALO’S REEF ★

MARINA BAR AND GRILL ★

Seafood, po’ boys, burgers and salads.

Open Sun.–Thur. 11 a.m.–8 p.m., Fri. 11 a.m.– 10 p.m., SAT. 8 a.m.–10 p.m. Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort, 9300 Emerald Coast Pkwy. W., Miramar Beach. (850) 267-7778. $ B L D

Hot wings and cold beer. Tues–Sat open at 10:30 am, Sun open at noon. 116 Eglin Pkwy., Fort Walton Beach. (850) 243-9463. $ L D

THE CRAFT BAR ★

Craft brews on tap along with artisan cocktails and elevated bar fare. Open daily 11 am–midnight.

4424 Commons Dr., Destin. Also in Grayton Beach and Pensacola. (850) 460-7907. $$ L D

CUVÉE KITCHEN + WINE BAR ★

Atmosphere and service match expansive menu including everything from sushi to pork tenderloin. Lunch Sat–Sun 10 am–1 pm.

Dinner daily from 5. 300 S Alcaniz St., Pensacola.

(850) 433-1275. $$ L D

EVERKRISP ★

Farm-to-table salads, rice bowls and other healthfocused American bites in modern, brick-lined digs. Open daily 10:30 am–9 pm. 4463 Commons Dr. W. #10a, Destin. (850) 460-8881. $$ L D

FIREFLY ★

Fresh Gulf seafood, steak, sushi and signature cocktails. Open daily at 5 p.m. 535 Richard Jackson Blvd., Panama City Beach. (850) 249-3359. $$$ D

MARINA CAFÉ

Gourmet pizzas, Creole and American cuisine. Open daily 5–10 pm. 404 E. Hwy. 98, Destin. (850) 837-7960. $$$ D

PAULA DEEN’S FAMILY KITCHEN

Enjoy classic Southern specialties and comfort food in a relaxed family-centric setting. Open 11 a.m.–10 p.m., 4237 Legendary Drive, Destin, (850) 312-5353.

Open 4 p.m.–10 p.m., 601 Pier Park Drive, Suite 103, Panama City Beach, (850) 312-5354. $$ L D

RESTAURANT PARADIS ★

JACO’S BAYFRONT BAR & GRILLE

VIN’TIJ WINE BOUTIQUE & BISTRO ★

Waterfront restaurant serving burgers, salads, seafood and brunch daily. Open Mon–Wed 11 am–9 pm, Thurs–Sat 11 am–10 pm and Sun 10 am–9 pm. 997 S. Palafox St., Pensacola.

(850) 432-5226. $$ L D

Seafood, salad, chef specials. Open daily 11 am–midnight. 10859 W. Emerald Coast Pkwy., #103, Miramar Beach. (850) 650-9820. $$ L D

TAILFINS SEAFOOD HOUSE & OYSTER BAR ★

ASIAN

Steak, seafood and barbecue. Wed–Fri 11 am– close, Sat–Sun 10 am–close. 172 Harbor Blvd, Destin. (850) 650-1200. $ L D

JIN JIN 1 ★

JOHN WEHNER’S VILLAGE DOOR BAYFRONT RESTAURANT & NIGHTCLUB ★ Dinner and dancing, serving barbeque and seafood. Open daily 5–9 pm. The Village of Baytowne Wharf, 136 Fisherman’s Cove, Miramar Beach. (850) 502-4590. $$ D

Fine Chinese cuisine available for dine in, takeout or delivery. Open Mon–Thur 11 a.m.–10 p.m., Fri–Sat 11 am–10:30 pm.

2078 U.S. Highway 98 W., No. 104, Santa Rosa Beach. (850) 622-5558. $ L D

OSAKA ★

Known for its sushi but serves a variety of dishes, including chicken, steak and seafood.

Lunch 11 am–2:30 pm, dinner 5–10:30 pm.

34845 Emerald Coast Pkwy., Destin.

850) 650-4688 or (850) 650-4689. $$ L D

LOUISIANA LAGNIAPPE ★

A taste of New Orleans hits the coast through Louisiana-style favorites like shrimp and grits and Cajun seafood gumbo. Open daily from 4 pm.

775 Gulf Shore Dr., Destin. (850) 837-0881. $$ D

REAL THAI FUSION RESTAURANT ★

Lucy Buffett’s funky hangout features cocktails, burgers and seafood, plus allergy-friendly menus.

Open Sun–Thur 11 am–9 pm, Fri–Sat 11 am–10 pm.

Authentic family-owned restaurant featuring traditional Thai fare and curry.

Open Mon–Fri 11 am–3 pm, Sat Noon–9 pm.

12889 Emerald Coast Pkwy., Suite 105-B, Miramar Beach. (850) 837-5344. $$ L D

The restaurants that appear in this guide are included as a service to readers and not as recommendations of the Emerald Coast Magazine editorial department, except where noted.

Breakfast Lunch Dinner

34940 Emerald Coast Pkwy, Destin | 850-460-2210 | emeraldcoastoliveoil.com

Restaurant and lounge offers rich coastal flavors in its innovative dishes. Open Sun– Thur 5–9 pm, Fri–Sat 5–10 pm. 82 S. Barrett Square, Rosemary Beach. (850) 534-0400. $$$ D Chef-inspired twists on classic dishes.

Breakfast, lunch, dinner or cocktail.

Open daily 7 am–2 pm. Tiki Bar open noon to sunset. Linkside Conference Center, 158 Sandestin Blvd. N., Miramar Beach.

(850) 267-7108. $ B L

Seafood, burgers and sandwiches. Open daily 11 am–3 pm and 5–9 pm. 30 Castle Harbour Dr., Alys Beach. (850) 641-0017. $$ L D

B L D

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SUNSET BAY CAFÉ ★

GEORGE’S AT ALYS BEACH

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MEDITERRANEAN

Serving a wide variety of seafood, steaks and flatbreads by the waterfront. Open daily for lunch and dinner from 11 am–9 pm. 455 W. Main St., Pensacola. (850) 912-8775. $$ L D

DHARMA BLUE

LULU’S ★

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

NICK’S BOATHOUSE

Classic Italian, French and Asian-inspired dishes.

Open daily 5:30–10 pm. 36120 Emerald Coast Pkwy.

W., Destin. (850) 460-2909. $$$ D

★ Best of the

SHALIMAR 1259 EGLIN PARKWAY (850) 613-6120

MAGNOLIA GRILL

THE BEACH HOUSE

THE KEY

Visit the Miramar Beach location's recently renovated dining area and check out the new menu items.

Outdoor Dining Live Music

$ Inexpensive

$$ Moderately

Expensive

$$$ Expensive

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.

(850) 622-0760 · bijouxdestin.com EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

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SUSHIMOTO ★

Casual eatery with a sushi bar offering up creative rolls, plus other Japanese and Asian fusion fare.

Lunch Mon–Fri 11 am–2 pm, Dinner Mon–Sat 5 pm–Close. 11394 U.S. Highway 98 W., Miramar Beach. (850) 424-5977. $$ L D

THAI DELIGHTS

Traditional dishes in a casual atmosphere.

Open daily 11 am–9 pm. 821 Harbor Blvd., Destin. (850) 650-3945. $$ L D

7 am–2 pm, closed Mondays. 979 E. Hwy. 98, #F, Destin (Also in Miramar Beach, Panama City, Pensacola, Sandestin and Grayton Beach).

(850) 650-0499. $ B

AEGEAN RESTAURANT ★

Authentic Greek restaurant. Breakfast 8–11 am, lunch 11 am–4 pm, dinner 4–9 pm. 11225 Emerald Coast Pkwy., Miramar Beach (and Shalimar).

(850) 460-2728. $$ B L D

ANGELINA’S PIZZA & PASTA

Neighborhood bakery, coffee shop and café. Open Mon–Sat 7 am–3 pm, Sun 8 am–3 pm. 26 Logan Lane, Unit G, Santa Rosa Beach. (850) 213-4528. $ B L

BON APPETIT FRENCH BAKERY & CAFÉ ★

ALA BABA GRILL CAFÉ

CLEMENZA’S UPTOWN ★

BLACK BEAR BREAD CO. ★

BBQ

French pastries, croissants, crusty breads, soup, salads and sandwiches. Mon–Fri 7:30 am–5:30 pm, Sat 7:30 am–2 pm, Closed Sun. 420 Mary Esther Cutoff, Fort Walton Beach. (850) 244-2848. $ B L

Award-winning barbecue, gumbo, sandwiches and salads in a casual atmosphere. Dine in, take out, catering. Mon–Sat 11 am–8 pm. 5008 Hwy. 98, Santa Rosa Beach. (850) 622-0679. $ L D

Coffee shop located at the entrance of The Village of Baytowne Wharf, serving fresh coffee, cappuccino, specialty drinks and breakfast. Open 6 am–1 pm. 9107 Baytowne Wharf Blvd., Suite B-4, Miramar Beach. (850) 267-4488. B

JIM ’N NICK’S COMMUNITY BAR-B-Q ★

DONUT HOLE BAKERY CAFE

98 BAR-B-QUE

Laid-back chain features slow-cooked bbq, burgers and classic sides. Open Sun–Thur 11 am–9 pm, Fri– Sat 11 am–11 pm. 14073 Emerald Coast Pkwy., Destin.

(850) 424-5895. $$ L D

BREAKFAST/ BRUNCH/BAKERY ANDY’S FLOUR POWER CAFE & BAKERY Lively brunch/lunch destination known for its French toast, rolled omelets and cheery ambiance.

Open Tues–Sat 7 am–2 pm, Sun 8 am–2 pm.

2629 Thomas Drive, Panama City Beach.

(850) 230-0014. $$ L D

ANOTHER BROKEN EGG CAFÉ

Breakfast all day, plus sandwiches, patty melts, specials, soups, salads and desserts. Open daily

for celebration. Open daily 11 am–11 pm.

12805 U.S. Hwy. 98 E., Suite R101, Inlet Beach. (850) 909-0555. $$$ L D

GREEK

CAFÉ SIENA ★

Eat breakfast all day with fresh-baked donuts and hearty comfort food. Open daily 6 am– 10 pm. 635 Harbor Blvd., Destin (also in Inlet Beach and Santa Rosa Beach). (850) 837-8824. $ B

MAMA CLEMENZA’S EUROPEAN BREAKFAST ★

Old World family recipes. Multiple award winner.

Brunch Wed–Sun 8 am–1 pm. 12273 Emerald Coast Pkwy. W, Miramar Beach. (850) 424-3157 and 8 am–1 pm on Sundays at 75 Eglin Pkwy, Fort Walton Beach. (850) 243-0707. $$ B

DESSERT MOO LA LA ICE CREAM & DESSERTS ★

Indulge in 24 ice cream flavors as well as handcrafted pastries and desserts. Open 3–9 pm. 101 Cannery Lane, Miramar Beach. (850) 654-3333.

Casual spot for familiar Turkish and Greek recipes offered à la carte and at a buffet, plus beer and wine.

10 am–9 pm. 550 Mary Esther Cutoff, Fort Walton Beach. (850) 986-5555. L D

YIOTA’S GREEK DELI

Traditional Greek food made from family recipes.

Order at counter. 10 am–5 pm. 130 E. Miracle Strip Pkwy., Mary Esther. (850) 302-0691. $ L

IRISH

Classic Italian. Wood-fired pizza, private dining, cooking school. Multiple award winner.

Lunch Mon–Fri, dinner Mon–Sat. 75 Eglin Pkwy., Fort Walton Beach.

(850) 243-0707. $$ B L D

FAT CLEMENZA’S ★

Classic Italian. Wood-fired pizza, specialty desserts, fish Fridays. Multiple award winner.

Lunch Mon–Fri, dinner Mon–Sat 5–9 pm.

Holiday Plaza, Hwy. 98, Miramar Beach.

(850) 650-5980. $$ L D

MIMMO’S RISTORANTE ITALIANO

JOHNNY MCTIGHE’S IRISH PUB

Easygoing pub providing Irish and American eats, a game room for kids and deck seating.

11 am–2 am. 2298 Scenic Hwy. 30A, Blue Mountain Beach. (850) 267-0101. $$ L D

MCGUIRE’S IRISH PUB ★

Burgers and pub grub and the famous 18-cent Senate Bean Soup. Open daily 11 am–2 am. 33 Hwy. 98, Destin (Also in Pensacola). (850) 650-0000. $$ L D

ITALIAN/PIZZA AMICI 30A

Authentic homemade pizza pie and Italian dishes in a casual atmosphere. Lunch and dinner daily 11 am–9:30 pm. 4005 E. Hwy. 30A, Seagrove Beach. (850) 231-2500. $ B L D

Offering authentic Italian cuisine with a flair

Italian dishes. Open Mon–Fri 11 am–10 pm, Sat–Sun 5–10 pm. 979 Hwy. 98, #5, Destin.

(850) 460-7353. $$ L D

PAZZO ITALIANO

Destin’s newest Italian restaurant offers authentic Italian cuisine such as wood-fired pizzas, pasta, calzones, salads, chef specialties and nightly specials. Mon–Thur 11 am–9 pm, Fri 11 am–10 pm, Sat 4 pm–10 pm, Sun 4 pm– 9 pm. 34904 Emerald Coast Pkwy., Suite 114, Destin. (850) 974-5484. $$ L D

THE PIZZA BAR AT BUD & ALLEY’S

Artisan cheese, fresh salads, antipasto dishes, homemade soups, seasonal vegetables, hearty pastas and homemade wood-fired Neapolitan pizza. Open daily from 11 am. 2236 E. County Rd. 30A, Seaside. (850) 231-3113. $$ L D

THANK YOU FOR VOTING US BEST HIBACHI

HIBACHI

HIBACHI | SUSHI

HIBACHI

18 Hibachi tables | Sushi bar Private dining | Large parties welcome Open daily for lunch and dinner

DESTIN | 34745 Emerald Coast Parkway | 850.650.4688 TALLAHASSEE | 1690 Raymond Diehl Road | 850.531.0222 PANAMA CITY BEACH | 15533 Panama City Beach Parkway | 850.588.8403 OSAKAHIBACHIANDSUSHI.COM

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TRATTORIA BORAGO

Pork tenderloin or pan-seared grouper from the open kitchen. Open daily from 6 pm. 80 E. Hwy. 30A, Grayton Beach. (850) 231-9167. $$ D

MEXICAN CANTINA LAREDO ★

A gourmet twist on Mexican favorites. Sun–Thurs 11 am–10 pm, Fri–Sat 11 am–11 pm. 585 Grand Blvd., Miramar Beach. (850) 654-5649. $$ B L D

CRAB ISLAND CANTINA

Latin-inspired Mexican cuisine. Mon–Thurs 11 am–10 pm, Fri–Sat 11 am–11 pm, Sun 1 am–9 pm.

2 Harbor Blvd., Destin. (850) 424-7417. $$ L D

THE TACO BAR AT BUD & ALLEY’S

Baja fish tacos, homemade guacamole, burritos and top-shelf margaritas. Open daily from 11 am (in season). 2236 E. Country Rd. 30A, Seaside.

(850) 231-4781. $$ L D

SEAFOOD BONEFISH ★

Contemporary grill chain offering a seafoodcentric menu, plus steaks & cocktails. Open Mon– Thur 4–10 pm, Fri 4–11 pm, Sat 11 am–11 pm, Sun 10 am–9 pm. Destin, Panama City, Pensacola. $$ L D

BOSHAMPS SEAFOOD & OYSTER HOUSE ★

Gulf-to-table Southern cuisine. Open daily from 11 am. 414 Harbor Blvd., Destin. (850) 424-7406. $$ L D

BROTULA’S SEAFOOD HOUSE & STEAMER ★

Fresh steamed and boiled seafood dishes.

Open daily for lunch and dinner. Sunday brunch.

Destin Harbor, Destin. (850) 460-8900. $$$ B

BUD & ALLEY’S WATERFRONT RESTAURANT ★

Sea-to-table dining, serving fresh seafood, steak and vegetarian dishes. Open Mon–Fri 11:30 am.

Roof bar open in summer 11:30 pm–2 am. 2236 E. Hwy. 30A, Seaside. (850) 231-5900. $$$ L D

CAPT. ANDERSON’S RESTAURANT

Since 1967, offering traditional seafood items, flavorful salads and soups with a view of the marina. Open Mon–Fri at 4:30 pm, Sat–Sun at 4 pm. 5551 N. Lagoon Drive, Panama City Beach.

(850) 234-2225. $$$ D

DEWEY DESTIN’S HARBORSIDE ★ Award-winning seafood in a quaint house.

Open daily 11 am–8 pm. 202 Harbor Blvd., Destin. (850) 837-7525. $$$ L D

DEWEY DESTIN SEAFOOD RESTAURANT & MARKET ★

Outdoor setting, fresh seafood. Open 1 am–8 pm.

9 Calhoun Ave., Destin. (850) 837-7575. $$ B L D

THE FISH HOUSE

Fresh seafood cuisine and Southern specialties in a setting overlooking Pensacola Bay and the Seville Harbor. Open daily from 11 am. 600 S. Barracks St., Pensacola. (850) 470-0003. $$ L D

FOOW RESTAURANT

Southern coastal cuisine with an Asian flair.

Open daily 5:30–10 pm. Located in the WaterColor Inn, Santa Rosa Beach. (850) 534-5050. $$$ D

THE GRAND MARLIN ★

Featuring fresh Gulf seafood, an oyster bar, steak and signature cocktails, plus a view of Pensacola Bay. Open Mon–Thur 11 am–10 pm, Fri–Sat 11 am–11 pm, Sun 9 am–10 pm.

400 Pensacola Beach Blvd., Pensacola Beach.

(850) 677-9153. $$$ L D

HALF SHELL OYSTER HOUSE

Upscale-casual Southern seafood restaurant and bar serving oysters and po’ boys, plus steak and cocktails. Open Sun–Thur 11 am–10 pm, Fri–Sat

11 am–11 pm. 34761 Emerald Coast Pkwy. #104, Destin. (850) 842-4788. $$ L D

HARBOR DOCKS

A surf-and-turf restaurant. Breakfast, lunch and dinner and great sushi. Open daily 5 am–11 pm.

538 E. Hwy. 98, Destin. (850) 837-2506. $$ B L D

JACKACUDA’S SEAFOOD & SUSHI

Seafood, sushi, salad and sandwiches.

Open daily from 11 am. Sunday brunch at 10 am. 56 Harbor Blvd., HarborWalk Village, Destin. (850) 424-3507. $$ L D

OLD FLORIDA FISH HOUSE ★

Airy eatery is a family-friendly destination for seafood, with a sushi bar and frequent live music.

Open Sun–Thurs 11 am–10 pm, Fri–Sat 11 am– midnight. 5235 E. County Hwy. 30A, Santa Rosa Beach. (850) 534-3045. $$ L D

RUNAWAY ISLAND

Crab, oysters and grouper sandwiches in a casual beach bar and grill with steps onto the sand. Open daily at 11 am. 14521 Front Beach Rd., Panama City Beach. (850) 634-4884. $$ L D

STEAK & SEAFOOD BIJOUX RESTAURANT & SPIRITS ★

Fine dining coastal cuisine with a New Orleans flair, Gulf seafood, prime steaks. Open daily 4–10 pm.

The Market Shops, 9375 Emerald Coast Pkwy. W., #22, Miramar Beach. (850) 622-0760. $$$ D

Mimmo invites you to enjoy and experience traditional authentic Italian cuisine from his hometown of Sicily.

CAFE THIRTY-A

Offering the best in steaks and Gulf fare, Café Thirty-A is also available for weddings and special gatherings. Open daily 5–9:30 pm. 3899 E. Scenic Hwy. 30A, Seagrove Beach. (850) 231-2166. $$$ D

CAPTAIN DAVE’S ON THE GULF

979 US HWY 98 E | Destin

850.460.7353

(in the 98 Palms Shopping Plaza)

EatMimmos.com

Inspired by traditional waterfront dining, Captain Dave’s features American seafood cuisine infused with a contemporary Gulf Coast twist.

Wed–Mon 4 pm–close. 3796 Scenic Hwy. 98, Destin.

(850) 837-2627. $$$ D

JACKSON’S STEAKHOUSE

High-end steakhouse cuisine with fine wines.

Local seafood is hand-selected and artistically prepared to perfection. Lunch Mon–Fri 1 am–2 pm, bruch Sat–Sun 11 am–2 pm, dinner Mon–Sun 5:30 pm–10 pm. 400 S. Palafox St., Pensacola. (850) 469-9898. $$$ D

MARLIN GRILL ★

Seafood, steaks, salads and appetizers. Open nightly from 5 pm. The Village of Baytowne Wharf, Miramar Beach. (850) 351-1990. $$$ D

RUTH’S CHRIS STEAK HOUSE ★

Steak and seafood. New Orleans-inspired.

Mon–Sat 5:30–10 pm, Sun 5:30–9 pm. Silver Shells Resort, 1500 Emerald Coast Pkwy., Destin. (850) 337-5108. $$$ D

SEAGAR’S PRIME STEAKS AND SEAFOOD ★

Premium steak, fresh seafood and caviar.

Open daily from 6 pm. Hilton Sandestin, 4000 S. Sandestin Blvd., Miramar Beach.

(850) 622-1500. $$$ D

SLICK LIPS SEAFOOD & OYSTER HOUSE ★

Family-friendly seafood spot located in The Village of Baytowne Wharf — with the freshest local Gulf-caught seafood and 1855 certified Angus steaks. Sun–Thur 11 am–9 pm; Fri–Sat 11 am–10 pm. 140 Fisherman’s Cove, Miramar Beach. (850) 347-5060. $$ L D

TAKE OUT DESTIN ICE SEAFOOD MARKET & DELI ★ Fresh fish and seafood items, pastas, salads and side dishes, Buckhead meats, decadent desserts, wines, cheeses, spices and more. Open daily 8 am–7 pm. 663 Emerald Coast Pkwy., Destin.

(850) 837-8333. $$ L D

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postscript

angel ... l’ange IT’S NOT ROCKET SURGERY

PILLOW TALK French nothings in my ears

by GARY YORDON

I

’m in the midst of a grand experiment. I’m trying to learn French while I sleep. Seriously, I am. I’ve actually thought about doing this for some time, but when I recently saw a video on YouTube titled “Learn French While You Sleep,” it seemed that it matched up pretty well with my idea.

So, I began doing the type of analytical research you should do before introducing a potentially dynamic influence to your brain. I Googled it. I learned that in a study by the Weizmann Institute of Science in Israel, scientists were able to condition subjects to associate smells with certain sounds even when they were asleep.

The researchers concluded, “This acquired behavior persisted throughout the night and into ensuing wakefulness, without later awareness of the learning process. Thus, humans learned information during sleep.”

Hey, then why not French?

So, I bought myself a set of pillow speakers — yes, they make them, little speakers that plug into your tape recorder and broadcast only to you through your oreiller. (Sorry, these French words pop into my head without warning.)

Next, I set out to find the best French tutorial on tape.

I found one with just individual words directly translated.

The guy on the tape says the English word, then follows with the same word in French. Nothing else, just straight word to word. After a few nights, my concern began to grow that my brain might not get the sequence. The guy on the tape says “angel,” then “l’ange.” The next

word is “aardvark.” Since I’m sleeping, I don’t know when my brain kicks in. What if my brain is hearing the French word first? Now, I’m in France telling some guy his wife looks like an aardvark.

I started looking for a tape that was more conversational, something that had a bit more relevance, like I needed la toilette. (Sorry, I can’t help it.)

I found a book on tape with a couple who simply chat with each other, first in English, and then the same conversation in French. The lessons are designed to give the listener a more rhythmic approach to grasping a new language. So, a couple of weeks ago, I shifted to this approach.

The problem is that I have started dreaming about this couple. I’m pretty sure some French words are getting through, but I find myself deeply invested in these two. I was in a meeting yesterday and found myself wondering what they were up to today. Good Lord, my awake brain has me eavesdropping on two people who don’t even exist because my sleeping brain is an imaginaire harceleur!

I’m not giving up. This brain intrusion isn’t leading me to turn French, although the dream attacker came at me with the baguette and I did immediately surrender. I’m going to find a tutorial somewhere between the minimalist approach of simple one-word repetition and moving in with Marie and Claude Bonaparte. I’m still convinced there is some merit to this approach. Either way, it seems harmless. It’s not like I’m trying to learn how to install a gas oven while I’m sleeping.

So if you run into me and I drop a little fumier de cheval on you, you’ll know I found it in my sleep. EC

Gary Yordon is president of the Zachary Group in Tallahassee, hosts a political television show, “The Usual Suspects,” and contributes columns to the city’s daily newspaper, the Tallahassee Democrat. He may be reached at gary@zgroup.com.

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ILLUSTRATION BY VECTORMOON / ISTOCK / GETTY IMAGES PLUS AND COURTESY OF GARY YORDON

I was sitting outside a small café in Paris, having a friendly chat with a couple I had just met. I recall that it was a crisp, sunny afternoon as I sipped my espresso. Without warning, a guy I had never met came up behind me and started smacking me around with a day-old baguette. I woke up.

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Dale Stackable (850) 699-1885 Cell (850) 267-0013 Office Dale@DaleStackable.com

Seagrove This gulf front home is a blend of the most current technology, sophistication and visually stunning elements. With four bedrooms and four and a half baths, this residence offers an open floor plan with gulf front views from the living, dining and chef’s kitchen. Special features include a heated and lighted spa pool, Italian marble heated floors, and a newly installed Control 4 Smart Home Technology System with a remote control for every room.

2940 East County Hwy 30A

7,950,000

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Chris Sause

(850) 225-1591 Cell (850) 267-0013 Office chris@sausegroup.com

Seaside This beautiful gulf front residence, ideally located in the heart of iconic Seaside, is a must see! With its chic design elements and classic coastal look, this home embodies the 30A Life. With three floors, four bedrooms, four and a half bathrooms, an enormous amount of indoor and outdoor living space, an elevator, two laundry rooms, and of course, truly remarkable views, this property is sure to impress.

2288 East County Hwy 30A

4,250,000

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