Emerald Coast Magazine April/May 2020 by Rowland Publishing, Inc.

EMERALD COAST MAGAZINE

GEARING UP FOR SPRING RAIN SHOWERS

APR–MAY 2020

LOWKYLZART

THE AIRNTG OF LIV E ISSU

» CLOSET MAKEOVER » ZEN GARDENS » MEDICAL PROFILES

COLLECTIVE ART SPACES CLOSET ORGANIZATION CITIZENS WITH STYLE CHAMPIONS PAYING IT FORWARD BRANCHING OUT AT CYPRESS

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Living hisBest Life Matt Battaglia

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Homeowner’s Collection Johnson Rice & Co., LLC

Amavida

Seaside Associated Stores Office

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Central Square

Anne Hunter Galleries

Earl Bacon Insurance Company

Art of Simple

Beach Ready Spa

Mr. Gyro Hero Quincy Circle

Cottage Rental Agency Front Desk

Electric Vehicle Charging Station

Frost Bites

Barefoot BBQ

Bud & Alley’s Pizza Bar

HWY 30-A Bud & Alley’s Taco Bar ONO Surf Shop

The Shrimp Shack

Bud & Alley’s Waterfront Restaurant and Rooftop Bar

East/West Boardwalk

Austin Magee’s Surf School Gulf of Mexico

Cabana Man

Coleman Pavilion

Mohney Pavilion

It’s Heavenly

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Seaside Interfaith Chapel

Newbill Collection by the Sea

Ruskin Place

Big Mama’s Hula Girl Gallery Ruskin Studio

Nicole Paloma Designs

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Dawson’s Yogurt & Fudge Works

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Seaside Communty Development Corporation

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1200 feet from the Seaside Interfaith Chapel to the Beach

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April-May 2020

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April-May 2020 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

Contents

APR/MAY 2020

FEATURES

EXHIBITING CREATIVE BEHAVIOR The beauty of art collectives and co-op spaces is in the bounty of opportunities they provide hundreds of Emerald Coast artists. By working together, the Emerald Coast art scene is stronger. by ZANDRA WOLFGRAM

MEET MATT BATTAGLIA This actor, former NFL player and developer lives his best life right here on the Emerald Coast. by ZANDRA WOLFGRAM

photography by SEAN MURPHY

↖ Marjorie McIntosh is a new emerging artist at HH Arts whose whimsical acrylic paintings are “full of fantasy and fun.”

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April-May 2020

Contents

APR/MAY 2020

62 86 GARDENING Matching

up compatible plants. Plus, all you need to know about centipedes and millipedes.

29 19 PERSONALITY Journey

Washingtonhigh is an award-winning artist, athlete and scholar who has already traveled the globe … did we mention she’s just 17 years old?

22 CHAMPION Artist Lori Drew is passionate about paying forward to “lowkyl” artists the kind of support she was shown.

rain … come on and bring it. Get geared up for a gorgeous spring!

36 FASHION Let’s cut

through the clutter. It’s spring — time to get that closet organized.

GASTRO & GUSTO 43 DINING OUT Two

Pensacola couples “branch out” of their comfort zone to open Cypress.

29 CITIZEN OF STYLE

The Wonder of Allison Wickey … artist, mother, art ambassador, community activist, oh, and let’s not forget museum-creating scuba diver.

April-May 2020 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

IN EVERY ISSUE 46 LIBATIONS Bud & Alley’s

54 MUSIC Meet the music

48 DINING IN Dressing up

58 STAGE Designer Rebeca

EXPRESSION

62 BOOKS You don’t

Taco Bar is extending just in time for Cinco de Mayo. Olé! a healthy salad is easily done in the comfort of your kitchen.

aficionado everyone on the Emerald Coast Ott to know. Lake sets the scene for magical live theater at Emerald Coast Theatre Company.

have to be a literary genius to find a Little Library near you.

51 ART What does the

South Walton Artist of the Year do? Artist Jenna Varney gives us a glimpse into her winning year.

ABODES

77 EXTERIORS Focus

When you purchase a piece of original art in the Emerald Coast Theatre Company lobby gallery like this seabird by Lori Drew, thanks to the Lowkylzart program, 20 percent is donated back to the theater.

people! Reduce stress and increase your wellbeing by zipping some zen into your backyard.

12 14 121 124 130

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

GEARING UP FOR SPRING RAIN SHOWERS

THE ART OF LIVING ISSUE

» CLOSET MAKEOVER » ZEN GARDENS » MEDICAL PROFILES

PANACHE

LOWKYLZART

need to know about spotting, responding and surviving a stroke.

colorful India — and not just because the Taj Mahal is a universal symbol of love.

EMERALD COAST MAGAZINE

26 MIND & BODY What you

32 HIS & HERS Rain,

113 GETAWAYS We loved

COLLECTIVE ART SPACES CLOSET ORGANIZATION CITIZENS WITH STYLE CHAMPIONS PAYING IT FORWARD

Living Best Life Matt Battaglia

his

BRANCHING OUT AT CYPRESS

ON THE COVER:

Matt Battaglia — former NFL player, actor, developer and now Emerald Coaster — relaxes at his newly completed beachfront “dream home” in Carillon Beach. PHOTO

BY COLLEEN DUFFLEY

PHOTOS BY SAIGE ROBERTS (29, 62), ALISSA ARYN PHOTOGRAPHY (46) AND ERICK LIMA (22)

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Contents

PROMOTION

APR/MAY 2020

SPECIAL SECTIONS AND PROMOTIONS

THE VERVE AFFECT Verve Realty

sets themselves apart and above by offering single agent representation. Do you know how you’re being represented?

and summer come outdoor activities and events. McNeill Palm’s shading systems allow maximum outdoor enjoyment.

↑ COASTAL COMFORTS Lovelace Interiors showcases its specialization in indoor and outdoor living spaces in a Gulf of Mexico home that welcomes elements of the outdoors in through color palettes and coastal elements. The indoors makes its way out as cozy sitting spaces.

TRUSTED FOR TRAUMA

Fort Walton Beach Medical Center serves a vast region with its trauma center specializing in stroke and chest pain.

ARTIST & ACTIVIST Council on Cultural Arts (COCA) questions Michael Rothenberg, poet, artist and activist, on his creative process, favorite foods, dreamed of superpower and more.

MEDICAL PROFILES

This special section spotlights Emerald Coast health professionals, their practices and the advances they employ in providing high-quality health care.

TREASURE TROVE

The Jewel at Grand Boulevard Town Center specializes in sparkle — from stunning diamonds to elegant opals, they have a jeweled piece for any occasion.

NEXT ISSUE

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.

Put a spring in your step with a gift from our Spring Gift Guide.

DEAL ESTATE

30A luxury living is at its pinnacle in a beautiful Santa Rosa home ideal for entertaining. Steps away from Seaside’s town square is a peach-colored prize of a home.

105

→ SPRING GIFT GUIDE

↑ ART MONTH

Art Month South Walton is an initiative of the Cultural Arts Alliance of Walton County, which merges literary, visual and performing arts events.

118

CALENDAR Wine is pouring, art is being showcased and music is in the air at events throughout the Emerald Coast.

“Best of the Emerald Coast” — Be on the lookout for our online ballot and cast your vote for the best businesses on the coast.

April-May 2020 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

PHOTOS COURTESY OF LOVELACE INTERIORS (80), BIJOUX DE MER (38), CULTURAL ARTS ALLIANCE (60) AND RENDERING COURTESY OF MCNEILL PALM (88)

80 24

↑ INSIDE OUT With spring

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April-May 2020

EMERALD COAST MAGAZINE

VOL. 21, NO. 2

APR–MAY 2020

PRESIDENT/PUBLISHER BRIAN E. ROWLAND

EDITORIAL EDITOR Zandra Wolfgram MANAGING EDITOR Jeff Price STAFF WRITER Hannah Burke CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Dr. Fred Aubert Jr., Steve Bornhoft, George Cowie, Jack Macaleavy, Rebecca Padgett, Audrey Post

FRESH SEAFOOD FROM OUR FAMILY TO YOURS

CREATIVE DIRECTOR OF PRODUCTION AND TECHNOLOGY Daniel Vitter CREATIVE DIRECTOR Jennifer Ekrut SENIOR PUBLICATION DESIGNER Shruti Shah PUBLICATION DESIGNERS Sarah Burger, Jordan Harrison, Lindsey Masterson GRAPHIC DESIGNER Sierra Thomas CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Alissa Aryn Photography, Michael Booini, Edde Burgess Photography, Colleen Duffley, Goode Green Photography, Steven Gray, Nikki Hedrick, Scott Holstein, Jacqueline Ward Images, Jennifer G Photography, Erick Lima, Kurt Lischka / Moon Creek Studios, Don McNaron, Mellow Media, Sean Murphy, Rhonda Lynn Murray, Saige Roberts, James Stefiuk, Shelly Swanger, Lindha Steffen, Wild Photography, Allison Yii

SALES, MARKETING AND EVENTS DEWEY DESTIN'S SEAFOOD RESTAURANT 9 Calhoun Ave., Destin, FL 850.837.7575

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 Pamela “Missy” Atchison Kimbrough, David Doll, Julie Dorr, Darla Harrison MARKETING MANAGER Kate Pierson SALES AND MARKETING WRITER Rebecca Padgett SALES AND EVENTS MANAGER Mackenzie Little SENIOR INTEGRATED MARKETING COORDINATOR Javis Ogden

OPERATIONS

ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES DIRECTOR Melissa Spear CUSTOM PUBLISHING MANAGER Sara Goldfarb PRODUCTION AND DISTRIBUTION SPECIALIST Melinda Lanigan ACCOUNTING ASSISTANT Amber Dennard EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT Caitlin Painter

DEWEY DESTIN'S HARBORSIDE RESTAURANT 202 Harbor Blvd,, Destin, FL 850.837.7525

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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. Copyright April 2020 Emerald Coast Magazine Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is prohibited.

forever YOU WILL

always

BE MY

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April-May 2020

from the publisher

THE ART OF LIVING The meter is running; choose wisely

Blogger and best-selling author Mark Manson posits that life proceeds through four stages. First comes the Mimicry stage in which we learn by watching and imitating others — hence the importance of appropriate role models who can teach us how to become independent, successful adults. In stage two, Self-Discovery, “We try things,” Manson writes. “Some of them go well. Some of them don’t. The goal is to stick with the ones that go well and move on.” In this stage, we discover our limitations, our strengths and our uniqueness. Next comes Commitment. In this stage, we cast off activities and perhaps people who have proven to be a waste of time and focus on what is important to us and what we are good at. We choose our life’s work. Finally, we arrive at Legacy. It is now that we work to ensure that we will have had an impact that outlives us. We may do so, explains Manson, by providing lasting advice to young people, passing on projects or businesses to protégés or making legacy gifts to charities or public institutions. Writes Manson, “Stage Four is important psychologically because it makes the ever-growing reality of one’s own mortality more bearable.” At this point in my life, I have one foot still in the Commitment stage and the other in Legacy. But I am in a good place. I have a wonderful wife, a fulfilling career and an invaluable cadre of good friends. Ideally, we proceed through life’s stages steadily, productively and without getting bogged down in self-destructive behaviors or highly stressful environments. My brother-in-law likens a lifespan to an odometer. We are all given a million miles, he likes to say, and the meter starts running when our heart starts beating. Avoid the kind of lifestyle or activities that tax your heart or cause it to race, and you are sure to live longer. “Art of Living” is the theme for this edition of Emerald Coast Magazine. Between its covers, you will find examples of people whose lives have been well-lived and who employ their talents to enrich the lives of others — some literally in the art world, others simply by living artfully. We canvas art collectives and cooperatives on the Emerald Coast; we have a conversation with actor/ developer Matt Battaglia who chose to build his dream home in Carillon Beach; we catch up with globetrotting high school senior Journey Washingtonhigh; we meet champions of the art scene, such as philanthropic-minded artist Lori Drew; spritely scenic designer Rebeca Lake; ambitious Allison Wickey; and 2019 Artist of the Year Jenna Varney, who peels back the layers of her process and biggest year yet. We sound off on composers, zen gardens, cafes “rooted” in creative concepts … and more. Beyond the age of infancy, life comprises a series of decisions from the ordinary to the consequential. The weightier the decision, the more important it is to carefully assess its costs and benefits, risks and rewards. To the extent that we choose well, we will achieve longevity and write a personal history worthy of emulation.

BRIAN ROWLAND browland@rowlandpublishing.com

April-May 2020 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

PHOTO BY SCOTT HOLSTEIN

Be well,

Celebrate the joy of living, eating and drinking well.

L ocated at The Pe ar l Hote l | D a i l y H appy H o ur 3 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 6 PM 8 5 0.588.2882 | t he p e ar l RB . c o m | 6 3 Mai n Str eet | Ro s em ar y B ea ch , F L 3 24 61 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

April-May 2020

editor’s letter

The priceless secret to quality of life and sense of place

For this “art of living”-themed issue and in honor of World Arts Day (April 15, 2020), I wanted to use this space to give voice to the powerful economic impact of the arts beyond the Emerald Coast. Below is a letter from the previous Florida Secretary of State Ken Detzner. I share it, because it is still relevant. As I write this, the Florida Department of State Division of Cultural Affairs is marking 50 years. Here’s to many more … Florida is rich in its arts and cultural diversity, and each region of our state has its own unique flavor. From the Southern accents of North Florida to the Spanish flair of South Florida and everything in between, Florida has it all. The vast diversity of our state is represented best by our thriving arts and cultural industry. The Arts and Economic Prosperity 5 report demonstrates that arts and culture are important contributors to Florida’s economy — to the tune of $4.68 billion. The not-for-profit arts and cultural industry also supports 132,366 jobs and returns nearly $500 million in revenue to local and state government. This sends a clear message that an investment in arts and culture is an investment in a strong Florida economy. In 2015, grant funds provided by Gov. Rick Scott and the Florida Legislature and administered by the Division of Cultural Affairs created a return on investment for state and local governments of 9:1. Additionally, more than 41 million people, including 7.5 million children, participated in programs supported by these grants. People across Florida’s 67 counties attended more than 42,750 events, and 10.6 million visitors from out of state took part in Florida’s arts and cultural events, spending nearly twice as much per event as Florida residents. As Secretary of State and Chief Cultural Officer, I am proud of the tremendous benefits arts and culture bring to our state and our local communities. Museums and cultural organizations throughout Florida create jobs, stimulate tourism and attract skilled workers while Florida’s artists foster creativity and make our communities distinct and vibrant. Across the state, arts and culture strengthen the economy and improve the quality of life for all Floridians. After reading this report (dos.myflorida.com/media/698818/artseconomicprosperityfl. pdf), I’m sure you’ll agree that Culture Builds Florida. Here’s to living artfully,

ZANDRA WOLFGRAM, EDITOR zwolfgram@rowlandpublishing.com

April-May 2020 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

➺ NOW RECORDING!

National Record Store Day (April 18) is a special day when independently owned record stores and artists come together to celebrate the art of music. Special vinyl and CD releases and various promotional products are made exclusively for the day. Plus, hundreds of artists make special appearances. Head to Central Records in Seaside at 89 Central Square to join in on the festivities beginning at 9 a.m. (850) 231-5669, CentralSquareRecords.com

➺ BE MINDFUL OF

YOUR MENTAL STATE

May is Mental Awareness Month, and in honor of it, we heed the experts who advise making time to consider the following: ▪ What you put in your body every day ▪ The air you breathe ▪ Your work environment ▪ The systems you interact with ▪ How much you sleep ▪ Who you connect with ▪ What you spend most of your time doing ▪ How you talk to yourself ▪ How you can be of service to others

➺ AWESOME

AUTISM EFFORTS

In honor of World Autism Day (April 2), we honor the Emerald Coast Autism Center in Niceville for their good work. Did you know that in less than 10 years, they have grown to provide nearly one-to-one therapy/education from five kids to now working with nearly 90 students?

PHOTO BY ALLISON YII (WOLFGRAM), VEJAA ISTOCK / GETTY IMAGES PLUS (AUTISM) AND COURTESY OF WIKIPEDIA.ORG (RECORD STORE DAY)

ARTS & CULTURE

Editor’s Top Picks

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PROMOTION

EMER AL

Special Edition

AST

20 YE AR

SPECIAL 20TH ANNIVERSARY ISSUE

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Feedback EMERALD COAST MAGAZINE

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GAZIN

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Digital Graffiti Enter to win Two Tickets to Digital Graffiti at Alys Beach May 15-16. Offer ends April 30, 2020 Visit EmeraldCoastMagazine.com/ giveaways to enter.

» WHERE ARE THEY NOW? » LOOKING BACK & LEANING FORWARD

GIVEAWAY

Celebrating 20 Years of Storytelling

20 YEARS: A RETROSPECTIVE

The people, places and things that matter most to you … we have covered it.

WHERE ARE THEY NOW?

We revisit six remarkable locals to remember and share their amazing stories.

To the Publisher, Looking forward to finishing the EC issue but my favorite part so far of the first half is the photo of you from 2003, nice touch. My second favorite part is the emerald water cover, wow. I became so relaxed looking at it, I dived into the issue right away even though I had other things on my plate, lol. Cheers to you, Kelly Layman Santa Rosa Beach

Dear Editor, Got the Feb/March issue today — congrats! It’s beautiful.

THE HEART OF THE MATTER

WELCOME, DERMATOLOGY SPECIALISTS

The Heart Center at Fort Walton Beach Medical Center is committed to combating heart disease and stroke with their own dedicated comprehensive medical and surgical care. Read more at EmeraldCoastMagazine.com/health-links.

We are happy to have Dermatology Specialists as our new Beauty Links partner. Stay tuned for insight and advice on the latest skincare and beauty trends by visiting EmeraldCoastMagazine.com/beauty-links.

Thank you for including me in the Where are they now? story (Feb/Mar 2020). It’s one of the best profiles on me that’s been done and an honor to be included. Congratulations on another great issue. Edwin Watts Shalimar

FEEDBACK SUBMISSION GUIDELINES

When submitting a letter for publication, please supply your full name, physical address, phone number and personal email address. Letters, when published, will appear with the writer’s name and city of residence. We reserve the right to edit letters.

Feedback, Rowland Publishing 1932 Miccosukee Road Tallahassee, FL 32308 zwolfgram@rowlandpublishing.com

@EMERALDCOASTMAG Happy Art Month! With so many community activities planned to celebrate all things art and culture, there’s no reason not to be out and about this spring. Share your #ArtMonthMoments with us by tagging us on Instagram for a chance to be featured.

April-May 2020 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

@emeraldcoastmag Emerald Coast Magazine @EmeraldCoastMag

CORRECTION In the Feb/ March 2020 issue (p. 62) we should have listed the company Dr. Paul Hsu sold as Manufacturing Technology, Inc. We apologize for the oversight.

PHOTOS BY NATABENE (HEALTH LINKS) / ISTOCK / GETTY IMAGES PLUS AND COURTESY OF DIGITAL GRAFFITI / KURT LISCHKA

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wave

THE

APR/MAY 2020

A CONSCIOUS, COOL COMPENDIUM OF COASTAL STUFF

â&#x2020;&#x2019;

Between a hectic academic career and loaded travel itinerary, Journey Washingtonhigh finds time to dig her toes into the sand for some melodic meditation.

PERSONALITY

A JOURNEY TO REMEMBER Knowledge is power for Fort Walton Beach High School senior by HANNAH BURKE

CHAMPION photography by JENNIFER G PHOTOGRAPHY

Lori Drew

|| MIND & BODY

Spotting, Responding and Surviving Strokes

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April-May 2020

THE

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↖

FWBHS Track and Field Varsity Team Captain, Washtingtonhigh holds the school’s pole vaulting record and excels at high jump, sprints and relays.

ourney Washingtonhigh’s mother, Yolanda, has always encouraged her to live life not by its length, but by its “height and breadth.” “It’s important to take in every moment,” said Washingtonhigh, a spritely senior at Fort Walton Beach High School, “and experience everything life has to offer. You can’t be afraid to go off the beaten path or to pursue your goals.” An AP Scholar with a weighted GPA of 4.73, Quest for Excellence STEM Award recipient, Okaloosa County Youth Ambassador and world traveler, Washingtonhigh’s goals are often lofty. Add in her extracurricular activities —

National BETA club, Key Club and the AeroCoast Robotics League, to name a few — and Washingtonhigh’s plate is perpetually full. Still, she finds time to place in Okaloosa County art shows for her 2D and 3D compositions. She holds records in her school’s pole vaulting program and even plays the cello. School breaks and holidays, she said, are more opportunities for volunteering. When we spoke in December, Washingtonhigh had finished most of her midterms, except for biomedical science and principles of engineering. As soon as she finishes them, she said, she’s on a plane to Madagascar for the holidays.

April-May 2020 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

“Little Dresses for Africa program is a volunteer service done by the Fort Walton Beach High School students in conjunction with the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. Global Impact program,” she explains. “We sewed about 120 dresses out of donated cloth and pillowcases as a community service project this year but weren’t sure where we’d send them. It just happened to work out that my mom and I were planning on visiting some of the villages of Madagascar this year, so I’m excited to personally deliver these dresses and see the impact firsthand.” As of this year, Washingtonhigh has stepped foot on every continent. Yes, even Antarctica. photography by JENNIFER G PHOTOGRAPHY

PHOTOS COURTESY OF YOLANDA WASHINGTON (ANTARTICA, CHINA)

“Out of all the places I’ve been, Antarctica may be my favorite,” she said. “It’s uninhabited, gorgeous landscape is so surreal, and I loved being able to interact with nature. Nothing really views you as a predator, because there’s simply not enough humans there for them to be afraid of.” Among adventures in ice climbing and kayaking, Washingtonhigh, then 16, participated in an independent study of the micro-plastics present in the Antarctic marine system. She completed an official report on the state of contamination in the Antarctica Peninsula, which she presented to the Antarctica Explorers Association, ASCEND program and her school advisory board. Washingtonhigh said she’s always been a “science and math kid,” but it wasn’t until Fort Walton Beach High School began their engineering program that she realized what she wanted to professionally pursue. “To start with, I’d like to focus → June 2017, studying on mechanical engineering,” she Ancient China said of her imminent college ↘ Washingtonhigh career. “It’s a broader topic that poses with some penguins in the South will allow me to harness my Pole, where she skills and help me narrow down represented FWBHS a specialization later.” in researching microplastics in the One of her most impactful Antarctica Marine accomplishments of the year, System for a Citizens she said, was being awarded Science Project. the Sunshine State Scholar Award, in which the Okaloosa County School District selected Washingtonhigh as the top STEM student in the county. She was honored to represent her district at a two-day “think tank” in Orlando, Florida, where she was honored by the Commissioner of Education. As of December, Washingtonhigh hadn’t narrowed down a college just yet, but among the candidates are the University of Florida, University of South Florida, Florida Institute of Technology, Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Rice University. Even if her studies land her out of state, Washingtonhigh looks forward to immersing herself within a new community. “Traveling has given me a different perspective than what I would have otherwise had,” she said. “Because I’ve been exposed to so many different people and their cultures, I have a broader view of certain issues or topics and how I approach them. “Seeing the world has helped make me who I am. I’m all about opportunity, putting my best foot forward and learning what’s out there, because I know what’s out there is huge.” EC EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

April-May 2020

THE

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CHAMPION

LORI DREW

Her search for belonging leads to helping ‘Lowkyl’ artists by ZANDRA WOLFGRAM

↑ Lori Drew, 2017 South Walton Mixed Media Artist of the Year, outside her studio gallery in Santa Rosa Beach. Of her work with cold wax and oils, she says, “Every day I have the pleasure of exploring new effects of layering, new feelings of comfort and new surprises that culminate in loving little memories of my life near the Gulf of Mexico.”

NOW SHOWING

Come browse the Lowkylzart gallery in the ECTC lobby located at 560 Grand Boulevard in Grand Boulevard at Sandestin. Doors open one hour before showtime. For more information, visit EmeraldCoastTheatre.org. April 17–18 High School Musical 2 Jr. | May 14–17 Treasure Island

April-May 2020 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

CALL FOR ARTISTS

If you are an artist and would like to apply to have your artwork showcased in the Lowkylzart program, contact Lori Drew at lowkylart@gmail.com. photography by ERICK LIMA

PHOTO BY NIKKI HEDRICK (ECTC GALLERY)

ou could say Lori Drew’s life has been an adventure in search and rescue. When college classes didn’t fulfill her wanderlust, the 19-yearold enlisted in the U.S. Navy to “see the world.” Marrying a military man meant raising three boys while moving to 15 different places. But once she landed on the Northwest Florida Gulf Coast, her quest was over. “From the time I left my home state of New Jersey to the time I got here, I was searching, but once here I never looked further, because everything I wanted was here,” says Drew. In 2012, Drew’s children had flown the nest, she was 54 and at a crossroads. Until now, she had been a photo journalist, a graphic designer and retailer. Her life partner, Bill Thomson, posed a simple question: “What do you want to do?” Drew’s response catapulted her into a new creative adventure. She converted the guest house of her Santa Rosa Beach home into a studio and began to live a dream painting. Her ethereal acrylic wax paintings of shore birds and sea-hued coastal landscapes radiate the tranquility that eluded her all these years. The Emerald Coast art community warmly embraced her. She found her niche. She belonged. But instead of cashing in, she wanted to pay it forward. “This community is very good about supporting artists, and that is why I wanted to do the same thing for others with Lowkylzart. When you are first starting out as an artist, you really need someone to encourage you, and you need opportunities to show your work,” Drew says. Her idea was to meet the needs of local charities, artists and businesses by installing art exhibits

in public spaces and donating 20 percent of sales to the partner’s charity of choice. A first attempt to install artwork on the walls of a new home mortgage office was a false start. But in 2014, she met Emerald Coast Theatre Company (ECTC) board member Sherry Londe, who was looking for ways to generate more awareness for the emerging theater company. “ECTC was staging a play called Art, and it just made sense to create a lobby gallery,” Drew explains. The partnership was a mutual win-win. It gave the theatergoers a richer theater experience and gave the artists a new audience. The first Lowkylzart exhibit showcased 12 local artists with 20 percent of proceeds benefitting

ECTC. The art received rave reviews, and ECTC asked Drew to continue to curate lobby exhibits. Beyond the ECTC project, Drew has installed pop-up galleries in three professional offices — three in the atrium at Sacred Heart Hospital Emerald Coast and one at Anne Hunter Galleries in Seaside. Since 2015, Lowkylzart has showcased 275 artists. “I think we’re all put on this earth for service to others, and that’s where the real joy in life comes from,” Drew says. Though her love of nature has inspired this artist to explore 27 national parks, with her heart firmly planted on the Emerald Coast, Drew surely proves Tolkien’s notion: “Not all those who wander are lost.” EC

↑ Lori Drew began curating the Emerald Coast Theatre Company Art Gallery in 2014 to bring local artists, charities and businesses together. She says, “Businesses benefit from the enhanced environment, and local charities benefit from receiving a percentage of art sales.”

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April-May 2020

PROMOTION

High Volume, Good Outcomes Fort Walton Beach Medical Center serves large region as stroke, chest-pain and trauma facility

iven its status as a certified stroke and chest-pain center and as a Level II trauma center, the emergency room at HCA-Fort Walton Beach Medical Center is a busy place, seeing some 68,000 visits per year. A second, free-standing ER in Destin sees another 4,000 visits annually. And, to further serve the region, the hospital is building a $10.1 million Navarre ER, scheduled to open late this year. “We are the receiving facility for trauma in a large geographical area spanning the tri-county area of Okaloosa, Walton and Santa Rosa counties and including counties in South Alabama,” said Denise Kendust, the hospital’s director of public relations and communications. “Our trauma volume has increased 198% in the last two years,” she added. While trauma volume is up, the mortality rate due to trauma in Okaloosa and Walton counties has fallen dramatically by 67 percent since 2017, when Fort Walton Beach Medical Center became a Level II trauma center. “We see a lot of heart attacks, chest pain, strokes and other related symptoms,” Kendust said. “And we see a little bit of everything, so nothing seems unusual to our team.” Too, the hospital is engaged in

educational trauma outreach campaigns in an effort to reduce the number of cases handled by its ERs. A “Think Before You Dive” initiative, for example, has succeeded in ecreasing the number of cervical spine injuries related to shallow water diving in areas such as the popular Crab Island. Native Texan and retired United States Naval officer Dr. Todd Bell is the hospital’s medical director of emergency services. He earned his medical degree from Baylor Medical School and completed an emergency medicine residency at Vanderbilt. In 17 years with the Navy and Marine Corps, Bell served as an F-18 flight surgeon and ground forces reconnaissance battalion surgeon. He completed combat deployments to Bosnia, Kosovo, Central Africa and Afghanistan, and he won awards, including a Bronze Star, Naval Achievement Medals, a NATO Medal and Combat Action ribbon. The Fort Walton Beach Medical Center ER is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week and includes 44 treatment rooms/bays and a dedicated radiology room. Physicians, nurses and other specially trained health care professionals deliver emergency medical services at a moment’s notice. The ER team assesses and treats

patients of all ages, from neonatal to geriatric. Department staff members are skilled in meeting the specific age-related needs of this wide continuum of patients. The Pediatric ER is dedicated to treating the emergency health care needs of infants, children and adolescents. In August of last year, the trauma center at Fort Walton Beach Medical Center was reverified as a Level II facility by the American College of Surgeons (ACS). That achievement recognized the trauma center’s dedication to providing optimal care for injured patients. Each verification period lasts three years. Prior to June 2015, many patients in Walton and Okaloosa counties were transported more than 40 miles to the nearest trauma center. The availability of a trauma center in Okaloosa County has reduced transport times for many patients during the critical “golden hour” immediately following a traumatic event. Multiple studies, including a 2015 study in the Journal of the American Medical Association, have found that the sooner care is given within that hour, the better the outcome. Trauma is the leading cause of death among Floridians under the age of 44, and Florida’s death rate for trauma remains higher than the national average.

F O RT WA LT O N B E A C H M E D I C A L C E N T E R F O R A P H Y S I C I A N R E F E R R A L O R M O R E I N F O R M AT I O N , C A L L ( 8 5 0 ) 8 6 4 - 0 2 1 3

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April-May 2020

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THE

10 SYMPTOMS OF A STROKE Here are some of the symptoms of a stroke everyone should know: ➸ Face drooping ➸ Arm weakness ➸N umbness

(particularly on one side of the body) ➸S lurred speech

or difficulty communicating ➸S udden trouble

SPOTTING, RESPONDING AND SURVIVING STROKES by DR. FRED AUBERT JR.

have the privilege of caring for stroke patients on a daily basis. Over the years, I have learned that the effects of a person’s stroke and their prognosis will be as unique as they are. A stroke for some, while serious, is merely a bump in the road. For others, their lives will forever be altered, and they may never walk, talk or see again. It is important to know the steps that you can take to help prevent a stroke, such as managing your blood pressure, diabetes and diet; not smoking and staying physically active. However, when a stroke occurs, the most important thing is time. Once the clock starts ticking, the time it takes to recognize a stroke’s symptoms, respond and receive treatment makes a drastic difference in a person’s chance of survival and their future quality of life. Every second

April-May 2020 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

counts, and it takes a team of knowledgeable individuals who are prepared to act quickly and appropriately. If you or someone around you is experiencing any of these symptoms (right), call 911 immediately. You should never wait to see if they pass or be dismissive of potential warning signs. Do not assume that someone is ever too young or healthy to experience a stroke. Although strokes are less common in younger people, everyone is susceptible. That includes infants, children and young adults. Today’s treatment options are better than ever before, however their effectiveness depends greatly on how quickly they are administered. With almost 800,000 Americans expected to have a stroke this year, it is essential that we all know how to spot symptoms and respond immediately. EC

walking ➸ Dizziness ➸S udden loss

of vision ➸ Confusion ➸S evere headache ➸D ifficulty

understanding

Dr. Fred Aubert Jr. is a board-certified neurologist with more than 13 years of experience, and he cares for patients at WhiteWilson Medical Center in Fort Walton Beach. He provides treatment for a range of neurological disorders, including stroke, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s disease and seizures.

ILLUSTRATION BY ISTOCK / GETTY IMAGES PLUS / VISUAL GENERATION AND PHOTO COURTESY OF DR. FRED AUBERT JR.

MIND & BODY

EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

April-May 2020

-MAKING OUTDOOR LIVING A DESTINATION

CUTTING EDGE TECHNOLOGY

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+ ARCHITECTURAL BRILLIANCE = OUTDOOR PARADISE

panache APR/MAY 2020

ELEMENTS OF STYLE RANGING FROM THE SUBLIME TO THE MORE SUBLIME

→

Pretty as a picture in her studio, Allison Wickey mixes it up: a shirt from H&M, jeans from Old Navy, a belt from Village Boutique, shoes from Dillard’s, earrings from Merry Beth Myrick Designs and a necklace from Forever 21.

FASHION

THE WONDER OF ALLISON WICKEY Harnessing her personal power to create original art, human connections, community arts programs and more by ZANDRA WOLFGRAM

HIS & HERS photography by SAIGE ROBERTS

Rain Gear You’ll Want to Wear

|| FASHION

Spring Cleaning

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April-May 2020

panache

→ Wickey (pictured in Loft blazer and Banana Republic jeans) would like to see art taken more seriously. “Why don’t we have a creative on board at the county level? It should be as important as transportation or the police force.”

llison Wickey is an awardwinning artist known for austere landscape paintings depicting her “made-up idea” of the Northwest Florida Gulf coast of yesteryear. But this Blue Mountain Beach resident also is a single mother of two teenagers; a scrappy, straight-shooting stargazer; and stalwart community organizer who dreams of an arts center that would serve as a haven if not a monument to local artists. Clearly, this passionate

April-May 2020 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

47-year-old is as layered as her 13-step glazed Venetian plaster process … and then some. Eager to branch out beyond the Midwest, this Illinois native put roots down on the Emerald Coast in 2007. Local art advocate Mary Derck, who owned Lilly Pads in Grayton Beach at the time, was first to retail Wickey’s work. World Six gallery in Rosemary Beach elevated her presence in the market, and in 2011 she was named

South Walton Artist of the Year. She soon developed a loyal following throughout the country — among them chef and television personality Emeril Lagasse, whose wife bought an Allison Wickey painting to hang in the kitchen of their New York home. A decade later, this scuba-diving artist made a worldwide splash, literally. In 2017, she led the charge to galvanize local, state and national support and funding to curate a collection of

Just Ask Allison ➺ On the art of business: “A typical business person and me are the furthest two things. My idea behind having a gallery is to make a raw connection with people through art. I just feel doing that is so much more important than the bottom line.”

➺ Life philosophy: “I live my life with complete creativity. I’m not in business to be in business. I do what feels good. I don’t understand why everyone doesn’t.”

➺ Personal style: “A classic, structured beachy look. A white loose shirt, with a fitted jean and a heel. Maybe sexy tomboy or Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy meets Edward Scissorhands.”

➺ Are you conscious of expressing yourself through your appearance? “I now understand my appearance is power. I noticed when I stepped up my appearance game, doing my hair, wearing makeup, choosing outfits that represent who I am, things changed for me, and I felt people were respecting me and listening to me.”

➺ Closet must-haves:

sculptures on the floor of the Gulf. The Underwater Museum of Art (UMA) off Grayton Beach in South Walton is the first of its kind in the nation. Today, Wickey takes commissions and her work is carried at Amavida in Rosemary Beach, Lovelace Lifestyle Store in Inlet Beach and at Mary Ellen photography by SAIGE ROBERTS

Dimauro Designs at The Hub in WaterSound. Swaddled in a heather gray hoodie and charcoal knit tights flecked with cream paint, the fresh-faced, blue-eyed blonde welcomed Emerald Coast Magazine into her Santa Rosa Beach studio to give readers a glimpse into just what makes Allison Wickey, a citizen of style. EC

“I wear a lot of button down blouses, mostly white and off-white, and long wide-leg jeans — those are the staples, and I love a Chanel-style tailored jacket.”

➺ Does what you paint reflect who you are? “Absolutely. I’m known for doing what I love, and I identify with my core buyers and clients. We align on so many different levels. They are openminded, eco-friendly, nature-loving, curious people who listen to NPR.”

➺ Favorite color: “I love all the greens. My favorite is an aged greenbrown color. It makes me feel good. When I look at the color green, I feel an openness and opportunity.”

➺ Home style: “It’s eclectic, yet timeless. I have a black leather couch, a fluffy white carpet, 10-foot tall neutral white walls with original art everywhere. I collect vintage maps, which reflects my passion for travel. One whole wall is a 15-foot National Geographic map I put up as wallpaper. It’s fun to walk into the hall to answer a question, and the colors are beautiful.”

➺ You grew up in the Midwest. Have you transitioned into a beach girl? “I was always a water person. I feel better around water. When you are under water, all the ion rays and radiation are blocked by the water. You’re in silence. Nothing makes me happier or makes me feel more refreshed than snorkeling.”

➺ On the Emerald Coast: “We’re living on a healing quartz crystal. This place is special, and it has a certain mysticism to it. It’s like a portal; it pulls you in and makes you want to fight for it and protect it.”

➺ Hopes for the Emerald Coast arts scene: “I envision a true community center that is geared toward the arts. An arts center that is very well-funded, well-structured and supported. A place for all levels of skills to go, that offers all kinds of classes for all ages with a beautiful gallery. We need to protect our heritage, and our heritage is in the arts.”

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April-May 2020

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SPRING STYLE

Men’s and women’s Patagonia Torrentshell Jackets, legend green and violet blue, waterproof/breathable ($129.99), Hy’s Toggery, Panama City Beach models

JAVIS OGDEN AND MAYRA ZIMMERMAN

April-May 2020 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

STAY COVERED

The North Face men’s and women’s jackets, black and canal blue, waterproof/ breathable ($99.99), Hy’s Toggery, Panama City Beach

HIS & HERS

Rain Gear You’ll Want to Wear Spring showers make for sleek slickers and stylish rain boots by REBECCA PADGETT

PHOTO COURTESY OF SEASIDE STYLE (KIDS JACKET)

ain, rain go away! Or, maybe not, if you’re properly outfitted in fashionable waterproof wear. We all know Florida’s spring and summer are unpredictable. Blue sunny skies one minute, clouds and a steady downpour the next. Not being properly prepared and outfitted can literally and figuratively but a damper on the day. Living in Florida, it’s wise to invest in rainwear. I know what you’re thinking: It’s bulky, uncomfortable and not stylish.

You’re picturing it now, swishing around in a plastic coat and lugging heavy rain boots through puddles. Fortunately, rainwear has come a long way in its comfort, fabrics and sense of style. Josh Wakstein, co-owner of Hy’s Toggery in Panama City Beach, suggests quick drying synthetic clothing, which the store offers in a wide selection, including tees, polos, dress shirts, pants, shorts and even dresses. By looking at these pieces,

you would never know such technology went into making the garments. “Staying dry is staying comfortable, and that’s why it’s also important to wear clothing that will dry quickly for those times you leave the jacket in the car,” says Wakstein. Where quick-dry clothing is important, above all, a proper rain jacket is suggested for the most rain coverage and protection.

DON’T FORGET THE KIDS

Brighten rainy days with this Youth Charles River Rain Jacket ($51) at Seaside Style. Made of 100 percent nylon, this lightweight jacket with a stripe accent is wind- and waterproof. Thoughtfully designed with elastic gathering at the hood (no drawstrings) for added safety.

photography by SAIGE ROBERTS

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April-May 2020

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↑ These jackets feature a non-zip, tuck-away

hood with a hook-and-loop closure for easy access and a secure fit. They’re among rain-gear products that are lightweight, breathable and packable, one clothing expert says.

Wakstein says there are three key factors you should seek in a rain jacket. One, a waterproof breathable fabric that keeps the rain out while letting air in so you don’t sweat in the jacket. Two, taped sealed seams. This will look like a piece of tape running the length of the seam and ensures it’s waterproof. Three, an adjustable hood because you want to keep the rain off of your head but also want to make sure the hood stays on and out of your field of vision. Rain jackets are more fashionable and functional than ever. New materials have gotten rid of that shiny, plastic look. Many even come in stretchable materials, making them sleek and comfortable. Seaside Style, the official lifestyle brand of The Town of Seaside, offers a variety of coastally influenced rain jackets. Erica Lambert, Seaside Style’s marketing coordinator, suggests the trendy Pack-nGo Pullover. It is made of light polyester and packs into its own front pocket with a zipper closure, making it small enough to fit in a bag or briefcase.

DRYNESS REIGNS

Men’s Frogg Toggs®, Blue Bull Frogg Jacket, ultralight and breathable ($29.99), Bass Pro Shop, Destin Commons

Seaside Style offers men’s, women’s, children’s and even pet rain jacket options. There are plenty of rain boot brands out there. The brands Hunter and Sperry have even made the typical rubber boot cute in a rainbow of eye-catching colors. There are many brands that also offer waterproof material boots that are

April-May 2020 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

unsuspecting. Designer options that are super stylish include Sam Edelman and J.Crew. For more casual wear, in Florida there is no lack of fast drying, slip resistant sandals, flip flops and deck shoes. With such improvements in the look and feel of rainwear, you can weather any storm in style. EC photography by SAIGE ROBERTS

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April-May 2020

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FASHION

SPRING CLEANING Minimalize your closet for a fresher, more fashionable you by HANNAH BURKE

↗

Amy Giles, dedicated to helping clients “find their own chic,” attains her own with an elegant storage island, stacked shoe shelves and full-height hanging space.

April-May 2020 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

“Utilizing every inch of useable space gives our customers the opportunity to transform their home and live life more efficiently.” Landis will first assess your space by measuring the entire area and taking inventory of the volume items you wish to store. Adds Giles, “There is no magic number of items you should own. Some prefer capsule wardrobes of strictly staple pieces, while others are well-traveled or like to stock up on trends and have

something different for every occasion. Both are fine.” Landis’ job is to create the best design that will maximize your space. She works closely with clients to select finishes, colors, and textures to customize the space based on their aesthetic preference. “From utilizing crown molding, to selecting decorative hardware, the customer gets a say in every detail,” says Landis. “We have dozens of options: accessories and door fronts, solid, woodgrain and textured

PHOTO BY JACQUELINE WARD IMAGES

ithout fail, says personal stylist and wardrobe editor Amy Giles, there are two things we do in our closets every day: get dressed and get undressed. “I believe a well-organized and wellmanaged closet can truly set the tone for your entire day,” Giles stresses. “When you can easily find the pieces you’re looking for, you feel like you’re in control. If your space is in disarray, there’s a good chance you’ll carry that feeling with you.” Instilling that fashion confidence in her clients is what Giles’ business, Wardrobe Made Simple, a service offering wardrobe remodeling, closet clean outs and personalized fashion tips, is all about. But while taking back control of one’s wardrobe can be as easy as purging old, space-hogging pieces and welcoming new, fashion-forward apparel, sometimes, Giles says, it involves renovating the actual closet space, because “if you can’t see it, you won’t wear it.” For those looking to optimize their storage space before remodeling their wardrobe, Miramar Beach-based Closet Solutions Florida, which serves the Gulf Coast, is devoted to improving lives through smart storage designs. “Having a designated place for each article will transform the space and provides our customers with a simplified and more organized lifestyle,” says Closet Solutions lead designer, Bronwyn Landis.

melamine materials, and so much more. We can add doors, drawers or use baskets for an easy grab-and-go. Every bit of the design and details are the perfect touch to suit your needs.” One of Landis’ favorite design solutions: “Some of my favorite ways to make more room for clothing is by adding drawers, as it frees up shelf space while also conveying a tidy, organized appearance.” She has noted that, as of late, customers are particularly “loving mixing flat and slanted shelves for a more customized shoe arrangement. It allows ample space for storage and “I believe a wellgives each item their own specific organized and home in the closet.” well-managed In designing a space for women and men, Landis says, the process closet can truly is the same, only the closet space set the tone for is split accordingly to ensure your entire day.” functionality. “Women tend to need more – Amy Giles, Wardrobe space, extra drawers and additional Made Simple long hang,” Landis says. “For a shared closet, I like to split the sides with drawers and a countertop. It separates the closet, but is very aesthetically pleasing, while also providing additional storage space.” Enter Giles, whose three-step process — evaluate, edit and clean out — is key to effectively reclaiming your style identity and optimizing your space. “Through your wardrobe evaluation, I get to learn what your personality is,” says Giles. “I come to your home and ask key questions to learn how you spend your time, which helps me assess what in your wardrobe you need to keep and what you get rid of.” One by one, Giles will ask you to consider each item in your closet, and why or why not you’re wearing them. (Think less of the crude, toss-out method of Stacy and Clinton in TLC’s “What Not to Wear,” and more of a helping hand guiding you toward your own flair.) “In a true edit, I like to use the Marie Kondo method,” says Giles. “What she basically says is that if it doesn’t bring you joy, get it out of your life. This can be very hard for some people to do, and it’s why I’m happy to be there to help you through it.” Giles will help organize your inventory in five piles: keep, mend, donate, consign and throw away. Laying it all out, Giles finds, is often intimidating and even scary for some clients. But, Giles says, the editing and styling process is a “judgment-free zone.” “I try to be as positive and encouraging as possible and make sure you know my mission is to build your confidence and help you feel fabulous about yourself and your wardrobe selection. Taking back your closet is simple.” EC

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OPEN TO THE PUBLIC

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April-May 2020

PROMOTION

Hellooo springtime! So glad you are here. The weather is finally warming, the rains have gone, the buds are breaking through … time to celebrate. What better way to shake off the hold of winter slumber than to jump right in to spring with gusto? We have just what you need to toast May Day, cuff the glory of the season and dazzle everyone at this year’s festivals and fetes. So kick up those strappy heels, and march on.

EMERALD COAST DREAM EARRINGS Bijoux De Mer captures what the Emerald Coast is all about with these dazzling Australian opals and emeralds set in 18k yellow gold. 4495 Furling Lane Suite 170, Destin (850) 830-5465 BijouxDeMer.com

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Knockout This award-winning pinot noir-style red has a sweet and a spicy side with notes of jam and blueberry pie. Sand Angel This fruit-forward, dry rosé won Best of Class at the 2018 Los Angeles International Wine Competition. Bombshell A 2018 Best of Georgia winner, this light white is crisp with hints of citrus, pear and passion fruit. A crowd pleaser! 106 N. Broad St. Thomasville, Georgia (229) 233-8314 StompedInGeorgia.com

RUFFLE CUFF

Handcrafted by Bijoux De Mer, this ruffle cuff stuns with a large Australian boulder opal and is surrounded by emeralds, green tsavorites, peridot, blue sapphires and mabe pearls set in 18k yellow gold. 4495 Furling Lane Suite 170, Destin (850) 830-5465 BijouxDeMer.com

PHOTO BY SAIGE ROBERTS (WINE)

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April-May 2020

PROMOTION

THE JEWEL From sparkling statement rings to bold and bright baubles, The Jewel is a treasure trove of exquisite, exceptional jewelry. With Motherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day on the horizon, spoil the special lady in your life with an elegant emerald, a timelessly classic diamond or gleaming gold and stunning silver pieces. Visit The Jewel at the Grand Boulevard Town Center.

1 TODD POWNELL Ornate and

bold, the interaction of dark and light metals combined with fine gold and diamonds create the signature aesthetic known as TAP by Todd Pownell.

2 RENE ESCOBAR Stacked and

styled, these oxidized silver, 18 karat gold and diamond bracelets are the perfect accessory by Miami based designer Rene Escobar.

3 2

3&4 AUDRIUS KRULIS Every

piece is a sculpture on a microscopic level. Exclusively designed and handcrafted in New York by Audrius Krulis.

5 JUST JULES Nu Vo Vintage

platinum and 18 karat yellow gold diamond pin bracelets restyled by Scottsdale Arizonabased designer Just Jules.

4 5

6 MAZZA COMPANY

Classically elegant and unique boulder opal, kyanite and diamond pendant on handcrafted gold link necklace with diamond toggle clasp by The Mazza Company.

7 925SUNEERA Casual luxury

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for a dynamic lifestyle. 925Suneera creates unique satin brushed sterling silver necklaces, bracelets and rings with champagne and white diamonds. Choose from the signature blackened or vintage finish.

SPRING STYLES DIVE INTO COLOR

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gastro&gusto APR/MAY 2020

DINING, IMBIBING AND LIVING LIFE TO THE FULLEST

← SOUTHERN MEETS SOPHISTICATED. Open for brunch and dinner, specialties of Cypress’ seasonal menus include craft cocktails, catch-of-the-day, small plates and fresh bread baked in-house.

DINING OUT

CYPRESS

Contemporary coastal, Southern cuisine takes root in Pensacola by HANNAH BURKE

LIBATIONS Bud & Alley’s Taco Bar || DINING IN Playing Dress Up with Salads photography by STEVEN GRAY

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April-May 2020

gastro & gusto

here are more than 600 species of cypress trees, McKenzie Lovelace tells me, and they can be found in every continent of the world. Their coniferous leaves, rot-resistant wood and centuries-long lifespan have, in many cultures, cemented the tree as a symbol of tradition and immortality. But with perpetuity comes the opportunity for growth, for evolution and enhancement. The tried-and-true can be born anew. Cypress, the restaurant in which Lovelace co-owns with her husband, Luca DiSomma, and two closest friends, Coleman Jernigan and Courtney Stagg, reframes classic coastal, Southern recipes into seasonal, postmodern cuisine and does so honorably. The two husband- Co-owner/GM Luca DiSomma and-wife duos met in brings to New Orleans, where Cypress his Coleman owned, expertise as a lifelong, secondoperated and baked generation at Manhattan Jack restaurateur. Bakery. DiSomma, who hails from Italy, invited Coleman to serve as executive chef (and Staggs as beverage and wine director) at one of his family’s restaurants in Fort Meyers, and the foursome enjoyed success there for several years. But in 2018, they were ready for a newer, bigger venture. When the old site of Pensacola’s Premier Baking ↗ Above: Bone-in NY strip steak and a garden of potato plants and broccolini swim in a savory sauce au poivre. Below: Arancini, deep-fried risotto balls stuffed with braised beef short rib and mozzarella, rests over a bed of ragu.

April-May 2020 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

PHOTO COURTESY OF CYPRESS (DISOMMA)

↙ (L to R) Owners Courtney Stagg, Coleman Jernigan, McKenzie Lovelace. Cypress’ full bar stocks a “roots” (classic cocktails and traditional wines) and “branches” (new world wines and modernly interpreted mixes) libations menu.

Co. hit the market, a venue which both appealed to Lovelace’s desire to return to her hometown and could utilize Jernigan’s baking experience, opportunity sprouted. “Thanks to the farm-to-table movement, the nation has shifted their inclinations from chain restaurants to those that are locally owned,” says Lovelace. “Downtown Pensacola, through its revitalization and recent years’ growth, has embraced that. Our master plan was to open Cypress, the restaurant, and to, long-term, revitalize the old bakery for wholesale.” They’re off to a smashing start. photography by STEVEN GRAY

Opened last February, Cypress was voted Pensacola’s Best New Restaurant in 2019. Its menu is seasonally inspired, relying on Pensacola’s abundance of fresh seafood, locally sourced produce and, most importantly, customer feedback. “While our menu changes quarterly, we’re keen on learning the taste Pensacola wants,” says Lovelace. “Our dishes vary depending on what vegetables and seafood are in season, but our customer’s palates shape what we do, which is taking traditional, coastal-inspired Southern cuisine and spicing it with our own flair.”

Last fall, the butternut squash napoleon fritters, topped with Greek yogurt, tomato chutney and clarified squash broth, was a crowd-pleaser. Winter celebrated the return of oysters with Cypress’ “Southern” oysters Rockefeller, baked with collard greens, crispy bread crumbs and Herbsaint. Lovelace is sure the ricotta gnocchi, drizzled with a fresh tomato basil sauce, will make another return this spring. There are some items, such as the wild boar Bolognese and Ava’s Garden cocktail, that customers demand remain evergreen. The latter is a concoction of Botanist gin, grapefruit cordial, Proseco and lime, and can be sipped in the main dining room, which seats 140, or at Cypress’ bar, which was built from a sunken cypress tree in the Escambia river. Cypress’ ambiance, like its wine menu, is an amalgam of the old world and the new, featuring the building’s original, 80-year-old quarry-tiled floors, painted brick walls and tall tin ceiling. As of last October, the bakery in the back of the venue has been restored to its former glory. Operating under the name Emerald Coast Bread, Cypress’ sideventure is currently the only wholesale bakery for breads in Pensacola and aspires to extend its reach throughout the coast. “We are an artisan bakery, and we make our breads without any GMOs or preservatives,” says Lovelace. “There has been a great interest from local restaurants, as good bread can really serve to accentuate a chef’s talent.” Lovelace is proud to have created 25 new jobs in her hometown. “There are higher-end restaurants in Pensacola with white tablecloths, and there are more casual spots, but I feel we’re somewhere in between,” she says. “It’s great to be home and to serve a niche here that hasn’t otherwise been filled.” EC

EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

April-May 2020

LIBATIONS

BUD & ALLEY’S TACO BAR Lip-smacking tacos

and tequila are here to stay in Seaside by HANNAH BURKE

hether you prefer yours crispy and crunchy or juicy and soft, tacos, stuffed with your protein of choice and a mélange of Mexican spices are, undeniably, universally relished. It’s difficult and frankly distressing to imagine a world without those handheld, versatile delights, but 10 years ago, Walton County was bereft. Dave Rauschkolb couldn’t abide. Co-founder of Bud & Alley’s Waterfront Restaurant, one of South Walton’s oldest (and most iconic) restaurants, Rauschkolb, along with friend Leo Casas, embarked on a buddy film-style of a road trip to San Diego, where they visited around 40 taquerias to acquire the essential elements of an authentic, south-of-the border street fare experience. Casas, whose family hails from Tijuana,

April-May 2020 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

Mexico, stressed to Rauschkolb that if he was going to be the one to pioneer this movement, he must do so correctly. “Since we are a coastal town, one of our main goals of the trips was to achieve the quintessential fish taco,” says Rauschkolb. “That really is a hallmark of taquerias and food trucks, and quality is key. It’s not rocket science; fresh catches and locally sourced produce and ingredients are the way to go.” Aptly named the Taco Bar, Bud & Alley’s spicy sister restaurant was born out of a small retail space attached to Bud & Alley’s auxiliary kitchen. Its creamy, avocado salsa-topped Baja fish tacos, made-from-scratch chips and guac and the largest selection of tequila in the area enjoyed immediate success. But, the beloved dive detached from the Bud & Alley’s building in 2019 for

PHOTO BY ALISSA ARYN PHOTOGRAPHY

gastro & gusto

renovation purposes, downsizing to a nearby spot at 2236 East County Road 30A. Temporary, or so Rauschkolb thought. “What happened was I fell in love with the new location,” Rauschkolb says in our winter 2019 interview. “But I have something exciting to share: I told Seaside if they would keep Taco Bar there, I’d keep paying rent, and we’ll do something new in its former location. I found out we’re actually going to be able to expand into some of that retail space, so the Taco Bar will be doubling in size.” Twice as big, and, by the sound of Rauschkolb’s plans, tasty. Taco Bar 2.0 will keep its vivacious, vibrant

atmosphere and feature both a wraparound bar and courtside seating. He is enthusiastic to reinstate a sweeping collection of silver and gold tequilas, ice-cold, imported cervesas and, of course, their signature margaritas, with which no visit to the Taco Bar is complete. Executive chef Carlos Lagaspi and Taco Bar staff couldn’t be more thrilled to serve up a new experience to its patrons. “Our family of employees are what makes dining and drinking with us so great,” says Rauschkolb. “It’s always exciting to have people love what they’re doing and create beautiful food and drinks that keep people coming back time and again.” EC

↘ Belly up to the Taco Bar at Bud & Alley’s to sample more than 40 tequilas. Olé!

↘ Pair that refreshing margarita with any number of variations of fresh-made tacos, including carnitas, literally meaning “little meats,” made by braising pork until tender; baha-style grilled fish tacos; and pollo, slow-cooked Mexican-style shredded chicken, to name a few.

EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

April-May 2020

gastro & gusto

↙ Tasty Blood Orange & Espresso Vinaigrette, Emerald Goddess Dressing and Balsamic Pistachio Vinaigrette served at The Bodacious Brew in Pensacola.

do right now to a specialty item,” says Brendon McMahon. “There is true craft in the dressings and they are treated with great care and really tie the signature and seasonal salads together.” Another local business that knows it’s all about how you dress a salad is Bodacious, a Pensacola café and culinary shopping experience, specializing in traditional and infused extra virgin olive oils and balsamic vinegars. While the café has Emerald Coast Magazine become known as the local salad expert, the INGREDIENTS staff of Bodacious in ➸ 1 cup fresh basil Pensacola encourages ➸ 1 cup fresh spinach ➸ ¾ cup Greek yogurt customers to select their ➸ ½ cup olive oil own oils and vinegars to ➸ ½ cup light mayonnaise create DIY dressings at ➸ 3 tablespoons lemon juice home. ➸ 2 tablespoons “Making your own minced garlic dressing guarantees ➸ 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar freshness,” says Mallory Studer, director of DIRECTIONS Add all ingredients except olive branding at Bodacious. oil and lemon juice to a food “You control the quality processor or blender. Pulse and ingredients when until ingredients are combined. Turned on low, slowly pour in you make your own the olive oil and lemon juice. dressing. Premade, Blend until smooth. store-bought dressing is often packed with preservatives and high in refined sugar. The wrong dressing can turn a healthy choice into a bad one. The right dressing makes all the difference.” Whether your taste buds tingle for a creamy, cool ranch dressing or zesty Italian vinaigrette, you can easily make your own dressings at home. You will likely find that you already have most of the ingredients to make a dressing in your fridge or pantry. Experimenting with recipes is encouraged in order to create a recipe that suits you and your salads. EC

→ Emerald Goddess Dressing

DINING IN

PLAYING DRESS UP WITH SALADS

DIY dressings enhance and enliven any salad by REBECCA PADGETT

s vibrant and fresh as vegetables may be, if a burger and fries were placed before you, it might be a difficult choice. You know the right choice though as vegetables are bursting with nutrients. The easiest way to liven up an interest in vegetables is through salads because there are so many possibilities and varieties. What really sells a salad though, is the dressing. Fortunately, many Emerald Coast businesses and restaurants are salad-centric and specialize in their own house made dressings. Everkrisp in Miramar Beach was first opened in Destin by Brendan McMahon and his wife, Ashley, in 2016 after they noticed a lack of healthy, fresh and fast options in their area. Everkrisp has a sizable salad menu and make-your-own options. What truly excites customers are the enticing and unique dressing options such: Balsamic Pistachio Vinaigrette, Goat Cheese Caesar, Key Lime Sriracha and Champagne Grapefruit, just to name a few. “The dressing brings it all together and takes it from something anyone can

April-May 2020 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

photography by JAMES STEFIUK

↑ Balsamic Pistachio Vinaigrette Recipe courtesy Everkrisp INGREDIENTS

➸ 2 cups balsamic vinegar ➸ 2 ½ cups blended oil (80% EVOO, 20% canola oil) ➸ 1 cup olive oil ➸ 1 cup toasted pistachios ➸ 3 tablespoons basil ➸ 2.5 tablespoons salt ➸ 2.5 tablespoons shallots ➸ 2.5 tablespoons garlic ➸ 1 tablespoon pepper DIRECTIONS

In a blender place the pistachios, vinegar, basil, salt, pepper, garlic and shallots. Turn the blender on low until the pistachios are almost smooth. Slowly add the oil and increase to medium speed. Once all the oil is added, increase to high speed until smooth. Makes 1 gallon.

↑ Bodacious Blood Orange & Espresso Vinaigrette Recipe courtesy Bodacious Shops INGREDIENTS

➸ ½ cup Bodacious blood orange extra virgin olive oil ➸ 3 tablespoons Bodacious espresso dark balsamic vinegar DIRECTIONS

Mix together and enjoy over your salad. We chose a simple bed of spinach with gorgonzola cheese to bring out the deep flavor of the vinaigrette.

EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

April-May 2020

CLIENT Trustma

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April-May 2020 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

DESCR HELOC

PUB Emerald

TRIM 7.875 x

COLOR 4C

MUSIC

Conductor and Educator

|| STAGE

Dare to Dream

|| BOOKS

Check Out a Little Free Library Near You

expression APR/MAY 2020

CREATIVE WORKS LAND ON PAGES, CANVASES AND STAGES

ART

→ Zooming in on the smaller things of everyday coastal life, her “hyperrealistic” style amplifies the natural beauty of each study.

A WOMAN OF MANY LAYERS

2019 South Walton Artist of the Year Janna Varney reflects on her ‘hyper’ year by ZANDRA WOLFGRAM

photography by SAIGE ROBERTS

EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

April-May 2020

expression

ith flame-colored hair and smoky blue eyes, she looks every bit a siren of the sea. Clearly, 38-year-old Jenna Varney is no sea creature. Still, this plucky Pisces, who settled on the Emerald Coast in 2012, sure paints like one. The 2019 South Walton Artist of the Year sat down with Emerald Coast

April-May 2020 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

Magazine over tea to share some highlights of her banner year as South Walton’s arts ambassador. “It’s been a very busy year,” Varney says with a sigh. She was tapped to promote the arts in South Walton in different ways — from live painting demonstrations designed to promote corporate retreats in Nashville,

Tennessee, and delivering public speeches on the economic impact of the local arts to giving media interviews. Her message? “It’s very important to support the local arts, because the arts help promote our community,” she says. “When a visitor buys a painting and hangs it on their wall, they remember the beautiful beach and the emotion it photography by SAIGE ROBERTS

← In her newly renovated home studio in Freeport, fine artist Jenna Varney focuses mostly on commissions, painting upwards of 15 hours a day.

evokes, then others see it, hopefully they feel the same … and it spreads that we are a destination of art and culture, and that helps keep everything promoted … and growing.” The exposure of being South Walton Artist of the Year has helped Varney’s career grow substantially, too. “It’s been one of my best years yet,” she

says. “Right after I won artist of the year, I sold my most expensive showpiece painting (Pink Pearl) which was in the window of The Foster Gallery in Grand Boulevard at Sandestin.” (The honor went to Irma and Jack Tuder, who live on the resort.) Since being honored, Varney has received numerous commissions and been invited to show her “hyperrealistic” work largely of coastal tableaus in Ruskin Studio in Seaside, as well as the East End Gallery and Crust Artisan Bakery in Santa Rosa Beach. But the real highlight for Varney is the feedback she has garnered from people and fellow artists. “The inspiration that comes from them — you see it reflected in their faces — it’s very surreal.” In addition to being named Visit South Walton 2019 Artist of the Year, Varney won both the Best in Show and People’s Choice Award at the Cultural Arts Alliance (CAA) Annual Member Juried Show in 2017. She was the 2018 featured artist at the 30th Annual ArtsQuest Festival and also named Visit South Walton’s 2018 Best Acrylic Paint Artist. Varney majored in art at Farmingdale State Collage SUNY in Long Island, New York, where she met her husband, Matthew Nevius. He was a double major in avionics and art. One day in art class, his salty pretzels paired well with her Hershey’s bar with almonds, and well … that was that. She started in oils, but they proved problematic for the globetrotting military wife of a pilot. “You can’t ship oil paint, because it is considered flammable, so it was easier to shift to acrylics,” she explains. And with upwards of 30 thin layers of paint as part of her process, fast drying acrylics did the trick. Though sometimes, this award-winning artists’ paintings are so realistic, they nearly trick the eye. “My paintings are really smooth and often mistaken for photographs,” she says. A Varney original begins with a vision. “I see a painting in my head,” she says. “I

go out and get the elements and create it from my imagination. If a crab painting, I get a crab, position it and nearly always work from my own photographs.” Now that her husband is no longer on active duty with U.S. Air Force (he’s in the reserves), she is happy to be staying put in their newly remodeled Freeport home, equipped with an art studio, so Varney can “take my turn” and focus on her art career. Though she has traveled the globe, Northwest Florida is the place that has ignited her passion to create. “When I came down here, something went off inside of me and I was just inspired,” she says. “I walk my dog and see a reflection in Dune Lake and think ‘I’ve got to paint that.’ ” After taking a “breather,” Varney plans to focus on large-scale paintings and venture into some new creative lanes … maybe a 30A fine china line featuring the coastal dune lakes. “So, I have a bunch of different ideas and then … maybe open my own gallery,” she says her eyes sparkling. Will it be on 30A? “Definitely,” she assures. EC

↑ Since moving to the Emerald Coast in 2012,

Varney has garnered numerous major art awards and honors.

EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

April-May 2020

expression

MUSIC

CONDUCTOR AND EDUCATOR Maestro David Ott fosters appreciation for fine music by STEVE BORNHOFT

omposer David Ott was scheduled to join the Gulf Coast Symphony Orchestra in Biloxi, Mississippi, for a February performance. He had written an educational narration that he was set to deliver, which would enable the orchestra’s audience to better appreciate the music they would hear. Ott’s phone rang at 6:30 in the morning. The orchestra’s director, sounding exasperated, explained that its conductor was stranded in an ice storm in Topeka, Kansas. Did Ott know anyone who could fill in? “Speaking,” he may have replied. “I dropped the downbeat that night and I said to myself, ‘If only I could have an orchestra like this,’” Ott said during an interview late last year. “And now I do.” Since 2016, Ott has been the conductor and music director for the Panama City POPS Orchestra, an organization that he sees as an emerging cultural nexus in Bay County. Hurricane Michael knocked its former home, the Marina Civic Center in Panama City, out of commission, and it moved to the Gretchen Nelson Scott Fine Arts Center at Mosley High School. Ott, who grew up in Wisconsin and earned his doctorate in music theory and composition from the University of Kentucky in 1982, was scarcely a conducting novice on that night in Mississippi some 12 years ago.

April-May 2020 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

↗ Ranking at the

top of post-World War II born American composers, David Ott’s works are among the most frequently performed of any American of the era.

photography by MICHAEL BOOINI

After moving in 1996 with his wife, Susan, and their children to Destin from Indiana, where Ott was a professor at DePauw University, he conducted the Northwest Florida Symphony for three years and the Philharmonic of Northwest Florida for seven. When the Philharmonic ran out of funding in 2008, Ott feared he would never conduct again. He applied unsuccessfully for openings in Birmingham, Alabama, and Meridian, Mississippi, while composing and cataloging music and serving as the director of music and organist at Christ the King Episcopal Church in Santa Rosa Beach, where he now lives. He was unaware of Panama City POPS board president Connie Gittard’s presence when she stopped by the church one Sunday to see Ott at work. Too, Gittard was familiar with his contributions to the Philharmonic and knew that he was a “great educator and captivator from the stage,” she said. Ott would succeed Eddie Rackley, whom he credits with bringing the Panama City POPS Orchestra along to a point where the job interested him. Ott sees bringing the audience along as part of his role with the orchestra. “I love our audience,” he said. “It’s growing and it’s learning. I have got to make the orchestra love the music, and I have got to make the audience love the orchestra. We tackle hard literature and play it well.” About 60 percent of the musicians who comprise the Panama City POPS Orchestra are local, Ott said. Many of the

UPCOMING SHOW

remaining players are music students from Florida State University in Tallahassee who will go on to audition for large metropolitan orchestras. Noting that FSU is ranked among the top 10 music schools in the country, Ott says, “We have students playing for us who are from South America and Europe and who chose FSU, given its reputation. FSU is a tremendous resource.” Ott began taking piano lessons at age 6. He recalls watching Leonard Bernstein’s Young People’s Concerts on television when he was a boy. As a doctoral student at Kentucky, Ott encountered a crossroads. He could study piano or composition. The composing professor took Ott by the ear and talked him out of piano. It wasn’t a hard sell. Ott had accepted a teaching position at Houghton College in New York after graduating with a master’s degree in piano performance from the University of Indiana. Bill Allen was the composer-inresidence at Houghton. Ott recalls hearing him perform a recital in which he played a Beethoven sonata and pieces of his own, and then said, “I’d like to close by improvising something.” Impressed or maybe dubious, Ott approached Allen afterward and was told by the composer that he had had no idea what he was going to play as he started to improvise. “At that moment, I knew that was what I wanted to do,” Ott said. Today, the conductor/composer is devoted in large part to education. The roles, he said, are so intertwined as to be inseparable.

Last year, the POPS brought about a Music to My Ears program whereby Ott planned to visit every public elementary school in Bay County along with a complement of musicians. Ott seeded the initiative with $10,000 of his own; community contributions took care of the rest. “You’ve got to talk to children, not necessarily to lead them to come to a concert, but because music is an extremely important educational component,” Ott said. “We introduce the kids to beat, rhythm and tempo. Then we go into what is a melody and how harmony works and how music gives life to a story.” Ott moved on in conversation to touch upon Vitali or perhaps Verdi. It was hard to be sure, because a power-pop hit, Belinda Carlisle’s “Heaven Is a Place on Earth,” loudly filled the restaurant where Ott was being interviewed. “If this is all the kids hear, that is no good,” he said while pointing to a sound system speaker. Did Ott mean to suggest that Carlisle is somehow la traviata? Maybe not that bad. Asked to name the composition that best reflects today’s tumultuous times, Ott paused for but a second or two before responding with “Randall Thompson’s ‘Alleluia.’” Written in July 1940 just weeks after France fell to the Nazis, “Alleluia” is a choral work but has been transcribed for orchestral performance. It is quiet, contemplative, eerie. “But we have always had tumult,” Ott said, “and we have always come through it. I’m an optimist. I like a sunny day.” EC

Scheherazade! April 25, 7:30 p.m. // Gretchen Nichols Scott Fine Arts Center // PanamaCityPops.org The Panama City POPS Orchestra season finale is one of the most colorful and evocative scores in all of classical music. Guest soloist Charles Rex, former associate concertmaster of the New York Philharmonic, joins to play RimskyKorsakov’s masterpiece in its entirety.

EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

April-May 2020

MICHAEL ROTHENBERG Artist Spotlight By Erica Thaler, Council on Culture & Arts (COCA) Michael Rothenberg is a poet, artist and activist. He is co-founder of 100 Thousand Poets for Change, Read A Poem To A Child, and Poets In Need, a nonprofit assisting poets in crisis. He is also co-founder of Tallahassee’s Ecosound Ensemble, a spoken word and music performance group. His most recent books of poetry include “Drawing The Shade” (Dos Madres Press, 2016) and “Wake Up and Dream” (MadHat Press, 2017). He lives on Lake Jackson and is currently Florida State University Libraries Poet in Residence.

and the company of limpkins. There are many things I want in the world that would create an ideal environment for creation, but I have learned to function with the basics. Inspiration and magic are everywhere. WHAT FICTIONAL CHARACTER WOULD YOU LIKE TO MEET AND BRING TO LIFE? Flush,

the dog in the novella by Virginia Woolf. Most of the other characters I have encountered in fiction are angry and problematic. WHAT MUSIC IS PLAYING IN YOUR CAR?

Richard Thompson and Thelonious Monk. I am not sure I need to explain why. These are great musicians. And Richard Thompson is a fantastic songwriter. I love a great songwriter. Bob Dylan and Phil Ochs are on the other channel; I will get there later on in the day.

WHAT IS THE LAST BOOK YOU READ THAT HAD AN IMPACT ON YOU? “At Swim-Two-

Birds” by Flann O’Brien and “Lanark” by Alasdair Gray. I think of both of those books. I love language, great writing, great imagination and fabulist ruminations. Plot is second to a good solid line of strange and beautiful language. I haven’t read Henry Miller in a while, but he made me want to write and not like him.

IT’S TIME FOR DINNER; WHAT ARE WE GOING TO EAT? Milano’s or Masa. Milano’s

is honest. My favorite pizza place in town. The calamari salad is pretty great too! And the meatballs! Masa never lets me down — smoked calamari, curries and seared tuna, seaweed salad, fried cheesecake and red bean ice cream.

rhinoceros. No species of creation should ever go extinct again. It is our responsibility to show that we love the earth and each other, if nothing else.

IF YOU WERE TRAPPED IN A TV SHOW OR MOVIE FOR A MONTH, WHICH WOULD IT BE? “The Fifth Element.” I was going to say

“Brazil” by Terri Gilliam, which is one of my favorite movies. I love the theme song of that. I want “Brazil” played at my funeral. But maybe if I were trapped my dystopia should have a little bit more humor, and “The Fifth Element” always has me smiling.

WHAT SUPERPOWER WOULD YOU LIKE TO HAVE? The power to heal the sick and raise

the dead. I don’t care about flying or having X-ray eyes. There seem to be more important things to do in this world.

Michael Rothenberg

WHAT HAVE YOUR LEARNED FROM FAILURE?

Patience.

WHAT DO YOU HOPE YOU WILL BE REMEMBERED FOR? Saving the planet. And

I mean the plants and animals and the air and sky, elephants, pangolins, giraffes and

Visit TallahasseeArts.org for a complete list of arts and cultural events, public art, arts education and more on the Tallahassee Arts Guide.

April-May 2020 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

PHOTOS BY BOB HOWARD

WHAT IS NECESSARY FOR YOUR CREATIVE PROCESS? Food and water, breathable air

Michael Rothenberg

EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

April-May 2020

expression

STAGE

DARE TO DREAM

Rebeca Lake shines as Emerald Coast Theatre Company’s first staff set designer by HANNAH BURKE

April-May 2020 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

↑ Emerald Coast Theatre Company audiences were “tickled pink” with Rebeca

But every set has come with its own learning opportunities: In The Fantasticks, Lake learned how to tell a story through lights. With Aladdin, she successfully created a magical, vibrant set for little ones to explore. “To begin my design process, I like to talk to the director and find one focus within the story,” said Lake. “Because plays have so many wonderful themes within them, it’s easy to get lost in all the stories within the main story being told. So, I like to find the director’s focus and, once we have that, I can narrow down the visual images that come along with that idea.” Colors, textures and light all play a part. Lake said you might have an essential piece to a set, such as a Christmas tree, but within its ornaments, you can find a way to enhance and reflect the story. Lake is still partial to teaching, particularly among the youth programs at ECTC, but she’s also

been known to take center stage. In 2019, Lake played the lead in Pinkalicious, a comically endearing and educational children’s musical in which Lake taught little ones about moderation, laughter and love. When asked if she preferred performance or behind-the-scenes production, Lake said the role was irrelevant, so long as she could help share with an audience the art of a story. “I’m excited to work with ECTC as it continues to grow,” said Lake. “They’ve already contributed so much to our area in the time they’ve been around, and I love being able to work with people from around the world while investing in my own community.” EC

View Lake’s scenic design work by attending ECTC’s Treasure Island, May 14–17. EmeraldCoastTheatre.org

PHOTO COURTESY OF EMERALD COAST THEATRE COMPANY

Lake’s turn as the precocious cupcake-eating heroine in the children’s beloved tale Pinkalicious.

→

or Rebeca Lake, old habits die hard. Growing up as a child in Niceville, she could be found corralling her friends and feeding them lines of a story, making cardboard set pieces and putting on mock plays for her family. Her vivid imagination and unwavering love for the stage propelled her to study theater at Northwest Florida Stage College, serve as chair of the theater department at the University of Mobile and, now, function as Emerald Coast Theatre Company’s first on staff set designer. “It’s just something I never grew out of,” Lake said of her love for storytelling. “Through stories, we learn so much about ourselves as well as others. Theater, for me, is the ultimate art form.” During her summers of teaching at the University of Mobile, Lake sought new projects to feed her artistic soul. Through a mutual friend, she met Nathanael and Anna Fisher, founders of Emerald Coast Theatre Company (ECTC), and began spending her dog days teaching classes and participating in Theatre Thursdays, a weekly, free Shakespearean performance hosted in Grand Boulevard at Sandestin’s Grand Park. When a position opened at ECTC for technical director and set designer, Lake leapt at it. She’s ecstatic to be back on the Emerald Coast, fully immersing herself in professional theater. “I’m primarily responsible for overseeing lights and scenic elements of a production, as well as designing its set,” Lake said. “And ECTC provides a lot of fun space in which to work. Even if it’s just a one-person play, there are plenty of creative elements involved in every production.” At this writing, Lake is working on her fifth production with ECTC, Miss Bennett: Christmas at Pemberly. A sequel to Jane Austen’s beloved Pride and Prejudice, the play revolves around Mary Bennet, who visits Lizzy and Darcy’s home for the holidays. As Lake’s last few projects have been a bit more whimsical, she’s enjoying researching the realism behind bringing a period piece to life.

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live music and performances, delicious food and beverage options, ImagiNation: where kids rule, and an exhibition of the Underwater Museum of Art sculptures. ArtsQuest is a rain or shine event open to the public Saturday, May 9, 10 a.m.–7 p.m. and Sunday, May 10, 10 a.m.–5 p.m. A $5 donation per person is requested at the gate.

Longleaf Writers Conference

Northwest Florida’s Premier Celebration of Art in All Its Forms Activate your imagination at Art Month South Walton, an initiative of the Cultural Arts Alliance of Walton County. Join us for a collaboration of visual, performing and literary arts events presented in diverse formats and various venues throughout South Walton, located along Northwest Florida’s Gulf Coast. Spanning the month of May, the Art Month calendar is full of creative offerings including: Under the Sea, a fundraiser for the nation’s first Underwater Museum of Art; the ArtsQuest Fine Arts Festival; Digital Graffiti Festival; Longleaf Writers Conference; the Emerald Coast Theatre Company’s production of “Treasure Island”; and more. All events take place in South Walton and are part of the Art Month South Walton initiative to bring together communities, organizations and businesses to present quality and diverse arts entertainment.

Under the Sea fundraiser for the Underwater Museum of Art

The third annual “Under The Sea” fundraiser for the Underwater Museum of Art (UMA), a collaborative project of the Cultural Arts Alliance of Walton County (CAA) and the South Walton Artificial Reef Association (SWARA) will take place on Thursday, May 7, in Grand Boulevard’s Town Center and is the official kickoff party for Art Month South Walton. Funds raised from “Under The Sea” ticket sales and an auction will benefit the Underwater Museum of Art, the nation’s first permanent dedicated

sculpture museum, recognized as one of TIME magazine’s 2018 100 World’s Greatest Places as well as one of National Geographic’s Best Trips 2019. The 2020 UMA installation will include work by seven artists, many of which will be on display for the event.

ArtsQuest Fine Arts Festival The 32nd annual ArtsQuest Fine Arts Festival will fill Grand Boulevard’s Town Center with over 150 exhibiting artists over Mother’s Day weekend. Produced by the CAA and presented by Grand Boulevard, ArtsQuest includes a CAA Member Exhibition, live art demonstrations, continuous

Treasure Island

May 14 is opening night of “Treasure Island,” presented by Emerald Coast Theatre Company. This production is part of their Theatre for Young Audience series but can be enjoyed by all ages. For tickets and more information regarding performance dates and times, visit EmeraldCoastTheatre.org.

Digital Graffiti

Celebrating its 13th anniversary, Digital Graffiti is a one-of-a-kind projection art festival where artists use the latest digital technologies to project their original works onto the white walls of Alys Beach. This year’s event takes place Friday, May 15, and Saturday, May 16. Each year, the festival attracts international digital artists, filmmakers, musicians, interactive designers, photographers, VJs, producers, celebrities, agency executives and fans of art, technology and architecture. Visit DigitalGraffiti.com for tickets and details.

CULTURAL ARTS ALLIANCE 105 HOGTOWN BAYOU LANE, SANTA ROSA BEACH | (850) 622-5970 | CULTURALARTSALLIANCE.COM

April-May 2020 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

PHOTO COURTESY OF SHELLY SWANGER PHOTOGRAPHY

Art Month South Walton

The seventh annual Longleaf Writers Conference will take place in Seaside from May 9–16, featuring award-winning, visiting authors and other special guests. Full conference registrations and a la carte seminars are available, along with options to participate in special events throughout the week, including personal consultations, readings and more. Register and purchase tickets online at LongleafWritersConference.com.

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April-May 2020

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BOOKS

CHECK OUT A LITTLE FREE LIBRARY NEAR YOU No card necessary, just use the honor system by ZANDRA WOLFGRAM

Go to LittleFreeLibraray.org to: ➺ Find library locations. ➺ Shop for discounted books. ➺ Start your own free library!

April-May 2020 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

his year’s theme of National Library Week (April 19–25) is “Find your place at the library.” This is easily done when considering the propagation of Little Free Libraries beginning to dot the Emerald Coast. These miniature makeshift book exchanges — often handmade and installed by locals in community neighborhoods — operate on the honor system. Bibliophiles can both borrow a book or stock the shelf — no late or restocking fees will ever apply. Not sure where to find a free book shelf near you? Go to LittleFreeLibrary. org, type in the area you are searching and locations of Little Free Libraries will pop up on a Google map. If you long to channel your inner librarian, you can build your own petite library, or shop this same website for a ready-to-assemble pre-built library kit along with discounted books to stock your little library shelves. Hunting for little libraries is as fun as the ol’ Dewey Decimal system. A quick search reveals several adorable options on the Emerald Coast. Generally, they are tucked away in

nooks and crannies of neighborhoods, like the sweet one erected by 9-yearold Grace at 36 Cabbage Rose Lane in Santa Rosa Beach. But occasionally they are as boldly placed as a New York Times Best Seller, like the one on the front porch of the Emerald Coast Wine Cellars in Miramar Beach and the one at Destin Commons. Sometimes they are dedicated, like the one at 1203 Ariola Drive in Pensacola Beach. The description reads: “This Little Free Library is in honor of Jane Waters, founder of The Islander Newspaper and the Krewe of Wrecks on Pensacola Beach. Jane was not only a journalist and the author of To the Beat of an Island Drum, she was a pillar of strength for her community. She was a firm believer if you could read, you could do anything; and there was always an adventure waiting in the bookshelves. Thank you, Mom, for passing on the love of reading.” The mission of Little Free Library is to “inspire a love of reading, build community and spark creativity around the world.” Looks like many Emerald Coasters have already “written the book” on doing just that. EC photography by SAIGE ROBERTS

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April-May 2020

exhibiting

Creative

Behavior Art Collectives Are a Beautiful Thing for the Emerald Coast

STORY BY ZANDRA WOLFGRAM // PHOTO BY SEAN MURPHY

April-May 2020 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

Brad Greekâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Buffalo is closely inspected by a visitor to HH Arts, an art collective located on Beal Parkway in downtown Fort Walton Beach.

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Establishing HH Arts was not intentional — at first. The way Eric Harris tells it, without many options of retail art galleries, he went online looking for a place for his wife, Helen, to sell her artwork — encaustic, watercolor and oil paintings. When he saw a building at 100 Beal Street in downtown Fort Walton Beach was for sale, he didn’t waste any time. That was five years ago.

Today, the cement block building (circa 1964) they affectionately call a “bunker” is now painted a light, cheery cream. What used to house an insurance company, a waterproofing business, a doll store and some say a church, is now a cache of 200-plus works of original art in a range of mediums created by 27 local artists … with four more on a waiting list. “It was my husband’s idea, and I’m happy he did it,” owner/artist Helen Harris says. “It’s been rewarding.” HH Arts is an example of an art collective — a gallery space that showcases and retails the artwork of a variety of artists in exchange for a nominal

exhibit fee (in Helen’s case it is $40 per month for a three-month commitment), a commission (Helen does not charge one) and gallery time (Helen asks each artist to “mind the store” on a rotation basis.) Since opening, HH Arts has retained nine of the original 31 artists from the first year whose work ranges from traditional acrylic paintings and photography to pearl jewelry, clay pottery, zentangle paper, recycled mixed media and more. Artists rotate in and out on a regular basis. Sharon LaPine and her life-size mystical mermaid and fairy mannequins recently became “homeless,” when her Fort Walton Beach space was sold, and so Helen recently “took her in.”

↑ HH Arts showcases a range of art mediums — oils, watercolors, photography, pottery, sculpture, jewelry and more by nearly 30 different local visual artists. ← HH Arts owner Helen Harris offers this advice for those considering opening an art gallery: “Be patient, try not to get frustrated. Make sure you can afford at least three years of expenses minimum. Love it.”

April-May 2020 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

PHOTOS BY SEAN MURPHY

↑ From small pen and ink prints, like this tribute to singer Aretha Franklin by notable local artist Art Jenkins, to life-sized mixed media 3D sculptures, LaPine, HH Arts enjoys a lot of repeat business from locals and visitors alike, because it frequently rotates a range of artwork starting from as low as $5.

Nearly one entire wall is filled the work of “new artists.” Harris points to a grouping of vivid portraits by Marjorie McIntosh — one is of a heroic woman with flowing red hair and a green cape and is captioned Be Fearless, Release Your Inner Warrior. “I love that new artists are coming in; that they are getting out there and overcoming their fear of showing their work,” Helen says. “If you don’t try, you’re never going to sell it. “I understand. I opened this gallery to showcase my own work — I get it.” So does Jennifer Steele, executive director of the Cultural Arts Alliance of Walton County. When an opportunity presented itself, she fast-tracked the

opening of Foster Gallery in 2015. After moving to a couple different locations, it is now anchored next to Fusion Glass Art in Grand Boulevard at Sandestin. It provides a 60:40 commission split with artists who work 10-hour shifts based on how much work they have on display. “It brings an opportunity for the artist to get their work in the public eye without having to open their own gallery or struggle to find a place to sell their work,” says Steele. “It benefits CAA because we have another way to interact with the community and get our story told. I think it provides the community with a great meeting place to come to and be together and appreciate arts and culture, plus it helps grows the economy.”

To date, Foster Gallery has showcased the work of 275 artists. One of them is Jenna Varney of Freeport, the 2019 South Walton Artist of the Year, known for hyperrealistic coastalinspired paintings. (See Art p. 51). “When someone asks you to be in a gallery, it means your art means something. It doesn’t come along every day. It’s a validation,” she says. For Varney, who hopes to open a local gallery one day, collectives are a win-win for both artists and art lovers. “I think to run a gallery successfully is to have a bit of everything for everyone,” she says. “And someone has to take a chance on new artists. Someone has to take that risk.” Artist Lori Drew was that someone

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April-May 2020

“It brings opportunity for the artist to get their work in the public eye without having to open their own gallery or struggle to find a place to sell their work.” — Jennifer Steele, executive director of the Cultural Arts Alliance of Walton County

when she established a Santa Rosa Beach-based collaborative called Lowkylzart in 2014. (See Champions p. 22). “You need to have someone encourage you before the sales come, because when they come, they give you confidence,” Drew says. “Until then, that support gives you courage, so you can inch your way out and say, ‘I am an artist.’” That’s exactly what Jayson Kretzer found at the City Arts Cooperative (CAC) in Panama City. Before he became the executive director of the Bay Arts Alliance, he honed his skills as a commercial illustrator and cartoonist as a duepaying member of the CAC. As a member, he could exhibit his artwork and take art classes. “It helped me. It got me out of my home office, and I was able to collaborate with and learn from other artists — all around it was a very positive experience,” he says. Too, multi-artist spaces offer consumers positive experiences.

April-May 2020 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

Davis Meadors, a 27-year-old Hoosier, discovered HH Arts while visiting his brother who lives on Okaloosa Island in Fort Walton Beach. “I was riding my bike by and I stopped to check it out, because I love art,” Meadors says. When he learned HH Arts was home to nearly 30 local artists his face lit up. “Wow! Fun to know I’m going to see more than one type of art and visiting something that is an active part of the community, because I think art should be a closer part of community and a part of how we organize ourselves,” he says. Tourism leaders seem to be “getting it,” too. Visit Pensacola touts the city’s nearly 500-yearold cultural heritage to coax millions of visitors a year. What began as Art Week in South Walton has expanded the entire month of May to lure art-loving visitors, who according to Visit Florida, have higher household incomes, spend more and stay for longer durations. And

Get Your

Group-On

Visit, browse and buy art at these collectives, co-op galleries and retail boutiques that showcase dozens of local artists and artisans year-round. Artistry 98

1993 Highway 98, Navarre (850) 543-1338 Mon–Fri, 10 a.m.–5 p.m.

Arts & Design Society 17 First St. SE Fort Walton Beach (850) 244-1271 Tue–Fri, 2–4 p.m.

Artel Gallery

223 Palafox Place Pensacola (850) 432-3080 Tues–Sat, 10 a.m.–4 p.m.

PHOTOS BY SHELLY SWANGER (FOSTER GALLERY), MICHAEL BOOINI (KRETZER) AND GOODE GREEN PHOTOGRAPHY (STEELE)

Artful Things

Kretzer is certain the “therapeutic” nature of art is the perfect salve the Panhandle needs to bounce back from the wrath of Hurricane Michael. But some arts advocates don’t want to leave locals behind. Allison Wickey of Blue Mountain Beach, who is an artist and president of the CAA, is among them. “What many don’t understand is art is what has made this place the destination it is,” she says. “Who creates the authentic local art that visitors seek out? Locals do.” Steele says she knows just the thing to make this coastal destination picture perfect for visitors and locals alike. “My long-term vision is to have a cultural arts center — a building for all of our activities including the gallery, classes — a real arts center for people to gather that’s accessible and open to the public. That’s my dream.” Such a creative center may help fulfill Helen Harris’ aspirations, too. “My hope is that more and more people understand how many artists we have here and support us.” EC

↑ Before he joined Bay Arts Alliance as executive director, Jayson Kretzer sharped his considerable commercial illustration skills as a member of the City Arts Cooperative in Panama City. ↖ Named for the late Susan Foster, founder of the Cultural Arts Alliance and one of the area’s first professional artists and gallery owners, The Foster Gallery, located in Grand Boulevard at Sandestin, is an art co-operative “manned” daily by the very artists who are on exhibit each quarter.

1087 E. John Sims Pkwy. Niceville (850) 729-2600 Tues–Fri, 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Sat, 10 a.m.–2 p.m.

Artesano Boutique

City Arts Cooperative

318 Luverne Ave. Panama City (850) 769-0608 Mon–Fri, 7–11 a.m. Sat, 10–4 p.m.

East End Gallery

10952 E. County Hwy. 30A, Inlet Beach (850) 252-5150 Mon–Sat, 10 a.m.–4 p.m.

Emerald Coast Gallery

37 Harbor Blvd, Destin (850) 460-8644 Mon–Sat, 10 a.m.–5 p.m.

Foster Gallery

585 Grand Blvd. Miramar Beach (850) 837-3037 Daily, Noon–7 p.m.

180 Miracle Strip Pkwy SE Fort Walton Beach (850) 244-4222 Tues–Fri, 10 a.m.–6 p.m. Sat, 10–5 p.m. Sun, 10 a.m.–4 p.m.

HH Arts

Blue Morning Gallery

Emerald Coast Theatre Company Lobby Gallery 560 Grand Boulevard at Sandestin, 2nd Floor Miramar Beach Tues–Fri, 10 a.m.–1 p.m. And open one hour before curtain during performances.

21 S. Palafox St., Pensacola (850) 429-9100 Mon–Wed, 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Thu–Sat, 10 a.m.–8:30 p.m. Sun, 10 a.m.–6 p.m.

Blue Giraffe

13123 E. Emerald Coast Pkwy, Inlet Beach (850) 231-5112 Mon–Sat, 10 a.m.–5:30 p.m.

Big Mama’s Hula Girl Gallery

303 Ruskin Place, Seaside (850) 231-6201 Tues–Sun, 11 a.m.–5 p.m.

100 Beal Pkwy. SW, Fort Walton Beach (850) 218-2155 Tues–Sat, 10 a.m.–3 p.m.

Lowkylzart

Quayside Art Gallery

17 Zaragoza St., Pensacola (850) 438-2363 Mon–Sat, 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Sun, 1–5 p.m.

EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

April-May 2020

Matt Battaglia The Emmy-winning producer, actor, former NFL player finds refuge from the Hollywood lights in Carillon Beach

STORY BY ZANDRA WORFGRAM // PHOTOGRAPHY BY COLLEEN DUFFLEY

It just may take an entire football team to play actor Matt Battaglia in a movie â&#x20AC;&#x201D; there are that many parts to consider. That would probably suit the former NFL-turned Emmy-winning actor, producer and philanthropist just fine. The Tallahassee native, who grew up in the Atlanta suburbs, is a raging Seminoles fan, though he is known to root for any SEC team in a pinch. Casting for this easygoing 54-year-old with chiseled dark features would have to include someone who could nail what he considers his greatest role: a family man. Battaglia is father to son, Blaize, and daughter, Paxton, and husband to his wife, Tina.

April-May 2020 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

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EC: How did actor Burt Reynolds impact your career? MB: Yes, I knew him as Uncle Burt. We have similar paths in that he too played college ball (FSU) and sort of fell into acting. He filmed Deliverance in 1972 in Northeastern rural Georgia, near where we lived, and later shot Smokey & The Bandit in and around Atlanta. He would stay at our house to get away from paparazzi. The premiere of the sports comedy The Longest Yard was in Tallahassee in 1974. (Burt Reynolds played the lead character Paul

April-May 2020 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

↖ Matt Battaglia with “Uncle Burt” Reynolds in 1972 on the set of the thriller Deliverance ↑ An All-American

middle linebacker, Battaglia suited up in jersey No. 52 for the Philadelphia Eagles in 1989 Battaglia is an Emmywinning producer, has coproduced a two-time Golden Globe nominated film and has acted in more than 100 films, network pilots and television shows.

HISTORICAL PHOTOS COURTESY OF MATT BATTAGLIA

n Emmy-winning producer, Battaglia has coproduced a two-time Golden Globe nominated film and has acted in more than 100 films, network pilots and television shows. As an actor, Battaglia has appeared in Thor, starring Chris Hemsworth, Natalie Portman and Samuel L. Jackson. Last summer, he reappeared in the HBO critically acclaimed television series True Detective. He is often recognized for his role as Phoebe’s (Lisa Kudrow) fireman boyfriend, Vince, on the hit sitcom Friends. Other notable appearances include stints on Mike & Molly, The Mentalist, The Client List, Longmire and a pilot for Warner Bros. entitled Rise. Other shows include episodes of 24 with Keiffer Sutherland, HBO’s Big Love, Shark, CSI-NY, Bones and CSI-Miami just to name a few. Battaglia also has produced television shows such as Last Shot with Judge Gunn, for which he won an Emmy Award. He co-produced the two-time Golden Globe nominated film Brothers, starring Tobey Maguire, Jake Gyllenhaal and Natalie Portman, and optioned the national bestseller Bad Monkeys by Matt Ruff for Fox Studios. We caught up with disarmingly dashing and endearing Battaglia in Los Angeles on a break in between projects and asked him about his passion for football, acting and real estate; growing up in Tallahassee (Burt Reynolds is “Uncle Burt”) … and his new life on the Emerald Coast.

↙ Battaglia

relaxes at home in his “man cave” just off the pool of his newly completed 6,100-squarefoot home in Carillon Beach.

“Wrecking” Crewe.) And I remember riding in a limo with Uncle Burt to the premiere, but what’s funny is I left there not wanting to be an actor, but wanting to be a football player.” EC: And you did. You played for the University of Louisville and then suited up for both the Cleveland Browns and the Philadelphia Eagles, before you were sidelined with a

neck injury you sustained on the field in college. Your first passion was always football. How did you get from the football field to the stage and screen? MB: My career ended abruptly, because they found a broken bone in my neck. I didn’t have a backup plan. As it turns out, back in Tallahassee, Uncle Burt Reynolds was talking to me about giving acting a shot. Eventually, I attended the

Acting School in Jupiter, Florida, which Burt was running at the time. I was the only guy who didn’t know how to act, sing or dance, which were the only three requirements. I came in as 245 pounds of solid muscle that just wanted to hurt people. It was a bit of a culture shock. After a year of training, I fell in love with the craft. I stopped working out and got skinny. And 25 years

later, I’ve done about 100 TV shows and received some nominations. I have no complaints. EC: Do you remember your very first audition? MB: Yes, it was for an Italian soldier in a film called Blue Sky starring Jessica Lange. I knew they wanted an Italian solider, so I changed my name on my headshot to Mateo. I died my hair black, and I spoke

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in a broken English accent. Thank God I only had to say five lines. I got the part, and they never asked when I came over from Italy.” EC: What do you love about acting? MB: I love creating different characters. Trying to see if you can pull off being someone who isn’t you. EC: But acting isn’t all you do. MB: Right, I also enjoy producing. I can be creative, and I have a knack for the financial side. Both aspects work two different sides of my brain, and I like both. EC: You also dabble in real estate, we understand. He built his last house in the Hollywood Hills literally on the side of a cliff and sold his home in the down market of 2011 for a higher price per square foot than any other house in that zip code had

↑ The Battaglias: Blaize, Paxton, Tina and Matt gather in the open-concept kitchen — his favorite “inside room” in the house to enjoy a meal and the delicious sweeping Gulf view. ↙ The beach is Battaglia’s “favorite room.”

sold for in the previous seven years. In 2015, he sold his five vacant lots on Granito Drive for more than $6 million. MB: Yes, I am remodeling a 3,500-square-foot house in Los Angeles that I took down to the studs. I organize and pre-plan very well. Being a contractor requires negotiating, pricing and scheduling. Many owners don't know what needs to go next. With

my acting and producing experience, I think I've learned a lot about business and scheduling. EC: Sounds like you find it as exciting as landing a big role. MB: I love it. Hearing what it’s going to cost you and then bringing it in under budget and under time is very pleasing to me. In some ways, I’m turning into a real estate developer. I’d say I’m spending half of my time developing and half in entertainment. EC: You have made it in Hollywood, yet you still seem very grounded. How do you keep your head in the game of life so to speak? MB: You can win Emmys and Golden Globes, but you realize all those trophies and awards are nothing but props for an ego and collect dust. If you want to plan for your kids’ future, those things are meaningless … they

April-May 2020 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

are not what is best for my kids’ future. That’s why I navigated to real estate, which can be more financially rewarding than entertainment. EC: You don’t seem to be a typical Hollywood actor with stars in your eyes. MB: You really have to keep your priorities straight. My spiritual faith keeps me more grounded than anything. EC: You are a son of Tallahassee. Tell us about growing up there. MB: We lived outside of town and raised chickens, cats and dogs. I was the youngest of four. My mother, Nancy Van Cleve Battaglia was in the circus at FSU as a trapeze artist; my father, Carmelo Battaglia, was a football player. EC: What is most memorable about your hometown? MB: I love being from

Tallahassee. I love the people, plus we are college football addicts. I am a Florida State and Georgia Bulldog fanatic. My wife, Tina, loves the Clemson Tigers, and I guess you could say I love everything about the SEC and ACC.

Florida is like going to the Caribbean. We have visited the 30A area a lot and discovered Carillon Beach. There’s nothing like it here. We are thrilled to have finished our home and are enjoying becoming a part of the community.

EC: You chose to come back and build a beach house in Carillon Beach. Of all places, why did you settle on the Emerald Coast? MB: I love heat, the water, the beaches. California is beautiful, but the beaches are cold and there is lots of seaweed.

EC: What is your favorite feature of your new home? MB: Probably the kitchen and living area being so open and the fact that we have a 60-foot-wide view looking to the ocean and 140 feet of beach frontage, both of which are quite a bit more than most homes on the Gulf.

EC: What is your favorite room? MB: The beach. But inside the house, I really like the “man cave,” which is the living area down near the pool. EC: What are you most enjoying about living on the Emerald Coast? MB: The outdoors. We love paddleboarding, surfing, biking with our kids, Blaize and Paxton. We love it. EC: Do you have a favorite hang out on 30A? MB: We really like Rosemary Beach and Cafe 30A.

EC: What’s next for you? MB: I’m filming a TV show called Paradise Lost with Josh Hartnett, Nick Nolte and Barbara Hershey in Baton Rouge. It will air this spring/ summer. I have a recurring role on a TV series for Fox called The Resident, which films in Atlanta. I’m developing three subdivisions in Greenville, South Carolina, right now and looking for some property in Atlanta. And spending quite a bit of time coaching/training my kids in their sports (football for my son and tennis/ soccer for my daughter). EC

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April-May 2020

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INTERIORS

Find Your Zen from Within, Outdoors Outdoor features create a sense of tranquility

PHOTO BY OG-VISION (STONE) / ISTOCK / GETTY IMAGES PLUS

by REBECCA PADGETT

EXTERIORS

Zen Gardens || GARDENING Companion Planting for Vigor and Protection

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April-May 2020

or ages, humans have sought solace in the great outdoors. When the weather is beautiful and the birds are singing, it’s easy to feel a sense of connection with the world. Yet you don’t have to journey far or wide; you can experience this sensation in your own backyard. Many homeowners have taken to creating places of peace with a few thoughtfully selected outdoor furnishings. Cozy chairs with waterproof cushions gathered around a fire pit create warm vibes. A hammock nearby a babbling water feature is sure to send you into a Saturday afternoon snooze. A dining set overlooking a blooming garden encourages eating al fresco. “Folks don’t come to Northwest Florida to sit inside all day,” says Susan Kiley, owner of Bay Breeze Patio in Miramar Beach. “We want to create an outdoor space you want to spend time in — whether entertaining or curling up with a book.” Zen gardens are becoming increasingly popular as ways to reduce stress, improve

April-May 2020 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

“At a residence, a water feature is generally used in a courtyard or near a patio so those using the space can enjoy the sight and sound,” says Huston. “Fountains create a relaxing environment to allow the ← owner to escape from the loudness of life.” Buddhist monks Huston also notes that any outdoor created Japanese enhancement doesn’t go unnoticed rock gardens to aid in meditation. These so-called and instantly increases your Zen gardens reduce property value. stress, increase focus Anna Daniel, owner of Santa and improve well-being. Rosa Beach-based Clay 30A offering gardening, landscaping, furnishings, fountains, décor and more, agrees that outdoor spaces work wonders for homes. “One thing about Florida is that outdoor living spaces have become essential to every home,” says Daniel. “Whether it is lush landscaping, fountains and water features, or fire pits and furniture, it’s easy to transform an outdoor space into one of the most admired areas of the home.” Even planting seasonal flowers or an herb garden can make a big difference in your mood. Because our senses are innately associated with our emotions, a sunny yellow sunflower can brighten your day, the scent of lavender can quickly calm and well-being and increase focus. Zen gardens a sprig of homegrown mint in your tea is are also known as Japanese rock gardens, soothing. which were created by Buddhist monks to With Northwest Florida experiencing aid in meditation. each season in moderation, it’s easy to Zen gardens consist of sand and gravel create calming outdoor spaces for your raked into circular or spiral patterns and year-round enjoyment. EC outlined by rocks. Zen gardens typically have moss, short bushes and pruned trees. Small bridges, lanterns and water features are also common additions. If you’re living on or near the coast, it’s likely you’re a fan of water. There are few sounds more soothing than moving water. There are many ways to highlight water features in your backyard, including koi ponds, waterfalls, reflection pools, water fountains and wishing wells. BrightView Landscape Services in Santa Rosa Beach specializes in making both residential and commercial outdoor spaces into an oasis through landscape, ↑ This Japanese garden at the Huntington Library in San Morino, California, is a design, lighting and more. Craig Huston, beautiful example of how creative companies business developer of BrightView, says like BrightView Landscaping Services can that fountains are very popular in Florida. create tranquility in an outdoor space.

PHOTO BY KENKO (COUPLE) ISTOCK / GETTY IMAGES PLUS AND ROBB WILLIAMS (HUNTINGTON LIBRARY JAPANESE GARDEN)

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Creating your style

Uniquely you from interior to exterior

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PHOTOS COURTESY OF JACK GARDNER PHOTOGRAPHY

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A stunning yet earthy tabby shell fireplace centers the room, bringing warmth to a coastal cool living room setting. As a home shared with family and friends, it was important that the design incorporate plenty of cozy and comfortable seating. The home is all the more inviting with plenty of natural light reflecting off of a neutral color palette and muted coastal colors, high pecky cypress ceilings, wood floors, local artwork and pendant lighting.

magine standing on a piece of property that is surrounded by a wooded area overlooking both a coastal dune lake and the Gulf of Mexico. Only the house’s concrete slab had been poured, but Susan Lovelace of Lovelace Interiors knew this house — with this scenic view — would be something special. Susan and two interior designers, Lindsay Cannon and Brooke Williams, wanted the beauty and serenity of the coastal setting to seep into the interior. The Ohio-based clients had the same wish: for their vacation home and future

permanent residence to exude coastal casual yet sophisticated styles. The designers brought the colors of the outdoors in — the creamy white of the sand, the sage green of the surrounding trees and the light blues of the sea and sky. The muted color palette paired well with statement design elements that included a tabby shell fireplace, pecky cypress ceilings and dark hardwood floors. While being coastal, the couple also strived for a classic yet comfortable look. Their finishings were more traditional in style, and their furnishings

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Being a useable, livable home was key. All bedding and upholstery are custom and composed of practical, performance fabric. The design of the outdoor spaces was equally important as the indoors, offering plenty of seating and lounge options around the scenic pool, on porches and around the outdoor kitchen. The beauty of this coastal region is emphasized in all aspects of the home.

were selected with cozy in mind. In creating loungeable living, the outdoor areas were just as important. They sought for the interior and exterior to be seamless, utilizing nano-sliding doors to bring the outdoors in. Nice weather encourages outdoor living with an infinity pool, an outdoor kitchen, chaises and custom porch swings. “This house really shows that lived in, loved in simplicity without being cookie-cutter,” said Lovelace. “It’s intensely coastal, but it’s not beachy. As a design firm, we are very adaptable to many styles and aim for the client’s vision while guiding them toward selections that are most comfortable, livable and right for their home.”

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HOW TO: COMPANION PLANTING FOR VIGOR AND PROTECTION

APRIL

➸ Plant heat-

AUDREY POST, MS. GROW-IT-ALL

SOME PEOPLE PERFORM BETTER WHEN PAIRED WITH THE RIGHT TEAMMATE. Plants are the same way. Native Americans knew certain vegetables were complementary: Corn grows tall, providing support for climbing beans, which provide nitrogen to the soil, which benefits winter squash, which covers the soil with its large, prickly leaves to suppress weeds and discourage pests. Work smarter, not harder in the garden with strategic companion planting.

loving herbs such as basil, oregano, Mexican tarragon and rosemary.

➸ Divide clumps of

bulbs, ornamental grasses or perennials.

➸ Apply fertilizer to

lawns after new growth has begun. ➸ Add organic mulch

to your planting beds to reduce weeds, conserve moisture and improve the texture of your soil as it breaks down.

Controlling pests.

Plant dill and basil among tomatoes to discourage tomato hornworms. Sage, hyssop, rosemary and catnip repel cabbage moths, which feast on many edible crops. Marigolds repel nematodes, which cause root rot. Radishes will lure leafminers away from spinach. The damage to radish leaves doesn’t affect the radish bulb’s growth. Zinnias attract ladybugs, so plant them near cauliflower so the ladybugs will be there to eat cabbage flies.

Regulating shade.

Most plants can use a little afternoon shade in our intense Florida sun, so place tall plants to the west of smaller ones. Corn and okra can shade eggplants, peppers and tomatoes. Provide support for those taller plants, if necessary. For ornamentals, porterweed (Stachytarpheta jamaicensis), tall varieties of Joe Pye weed (Eupatorium) and gladioli can shade shorter flowers.

Improving soil health and suppressing weeds. 3

Plants with the same needs planted too closely together can quickly deplete the soil of nutrients. Don’t plant broccoli and asparagus together, as both are heavy calcium feeders. Nasturtiums and beets are good companions instead. Planting sweet alyssum alongside potatoes attracts insects that eat pests; it also can form a living groundcover under broccoli to suppress weeds.

Incompatibles.

Some plants don’t do well in the presence of certain others. Garlic and onions are great companions for many garden plants, with their strong odors repelling pests, but they stunt the growth of beans and peas if planted nearby. Cabbage and cauliflower are both brassicas, but they’re cousins that don’t get along. And fennel doesn’t get along with any other vegetables, but it attracts a variety of beneficial insects. Plant it in its own bed, over yonder.

MAY

➸ Plant daylilies for

color. Select early, midand late-blooming varieties to ensure blooms for a longer period.

➸ Plant heat-

loving vegetables such as okra, sweet potatoes, peppers, eggplant and Southern peas. ➸ Insects become

more active as the weather warms. Make sure you know which are beneficial and which are pests before you spray. ➸ Propagate camellias

by air-layering.

PESKY PESTS

Critter: Centipedes and millipedes

These multi-legged wormlike critters are more closely related to lobsters and crayfish than they are to insects. Centipedes have a pair of legs on each body segment and are nicknamed “hundred-leg worms.” Millipedes have two pairs of legs on each segment and are nicknamed “thousand-leg worms.” They prefer moist habitats and high humidity. Neither carries diseases CENTIPEDES that affect humans, animals or plants. Millipedes are scavengers and AND MILLIPEDES eat decaying vegetation but sometimes feed on the stems and leaves of seedlings. Centipedes eat insects, capturing their prey in their powerful jaws and injecting a poisonous venom. To most people, a centipede bite feels similar to a bee sting. Those with allergies can have serious reactions. The best control is to remove rock and debris piles near the outside of your home, so they don’t have a place to hide. They’ll move on.



April-May 2020 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

©2016-2020 PostScript Publishing LLC, all rights reserved. Audrey Post is a lifelong gardener and has been a certified Master Gardener volunteer with the University of Florida/IFAS Extension in Leon County for the past 15 years. 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 ANNA GUDIMOVA (1), DARIA USTIUGOVA (2), DVORIANKIN (3-BEET), JETFOTO (3-NASTURTIUMS), VAL IVA (4), KIRISA99 (CENTIPEDE), SAKDINON (MILLIPEDE), DOLE08 (DAYLILY), TADA (ROSEMARY) / ISTOCK / GETTY IMAGES PLUS

Your Monthly Garden Chores

Does Estate Broker Truly Represent You? Does Your Your Real Real Estate Broker Truly Represent You? Unraveling Florida’s best kept real estate secret

Unraveling Florida’s best kept real estate secret

ith more than 40 years ith more thanreal 40 estate years of combined of combined real estate industry experience, industry experience, Verve Realty Group Verve Realty Group partners Jay Long and Chad Kittrell partners Jay Long and Chad Kittrell have become thoroughly familiar with have become thoroughly familiar client representation issues and with the client representation and types the financial implications ofissues different financial implications of different types of representation. of Together, representation. they have seen the role of the Together, they change have seen of the real estate agent overthe therole course of real estate agent change over the course of their careers. their careers. every real estate agent, even Historically, Historically, everybuyers, real estate even those representing had agent, a fiduciary those representing buyers, had a fiduciary obligation to the seller. During the 1970s, obligation to thewere seller. Duringtothe buyers’ agents referred as 1970s, “subbuyers’ agents were referred to as “subagents.” Both the agent and sub-agent were agents.” Both the agent and sub-agent were contractually obligated to get the highest contractually obligated to get the highest value for the seller. value for thethe seller. In 1983, Federal Trade Commission In 1983, the Federal Trade Commission found that over 80 percent of buyers found that over 80 percent of buyers believed they enjoyed confidentiality with believed theyand enjoyed confidentiality their agent, that more than half with had theiridea agent, thatdid more half had no theirand agent notthan contractually no idea their did not contractually represent their agent interests. represent their interests. By the early 1990s, state legislatures had By the early 1990s, real stateestate legislatures passed laws requiring brokershad to passed laws requiring real estate brokers to

disclose who they represented — buyers or disclose who theybrokers represented — buyers or sellers. Creative then circumvented sellers. Creative brokers then circumvented the spirit of disclosure with the practice of the spirit ofdual disclosure “disclosed agency.”with the practice of “disclosed dual agency.” By “disclosing” that they were double By “disclosing” thatthat they double agents, brokers argued theywere had fulfilled agents,legal brokers argued that they had fulfilled their responsibility. Consumers got their legal responsibility. Consumers got accountability without loyalty, while brokers accountability without loyalty, collected commissions on bothwhile sides.brokers collected commissions on both sides. In the 1990s, buyers and sellers filed classIn thesuits 1990s, buyers and sellers classaction over problems that filed inevitably actionwhen suits an over problems that both inevitably arise agent represents sides arise when an agent Buyers represents both sides of the transaction. claimed they of the have transaction. they should paid less;Buyers sellers claimed claimed they should have paid less; sellers claimed they should have received better prices for their should haveParties received prices their properties. on better both sides feltfor rushed properties. Parties on both sides felt rushed to close. The lawsuits were successful. to In close. The lawsuits Florida, a real were estatesuccessful. licensee may In Florida, a real may no longer operate estate as a licensee dual agent. no longer operate as a dual agent. Florida is among two dozen states with a Florida is among two dozen states with a “presumption of transactional brokerage” “presumption of transactional brokerage” clause. That means the agent is a facilitator clause. meansand the agent is a facilitator of the That transaction does not represent of theparty. transaction and does not represent either either party. to Florida statutes, “It shall be According According Florida statutes, “It shall be presumed thattoall licensees are operating as presumed that all licensees operating as transaction brokers unless aare single agent or transaction brokers unless a single agent or

V E RV E R E A LT Y G RO U P ( 8 5 0 ) 49 1 -2 27 2 | V E RV E R E A LT Y G RO U P ( 8 5 0 ) 49 1 -2 27 2 |

no brokerage relationship is established, in no brokerage is established, in writing, with arelationship customer.” The statute goes writing, with a customer.” The statute goes on to explain that “a transactional broker on to explain that “a transactional broker provides a limited form of representation provides a limited form of representation to a buyer, a seller, or both in a real estate to a buyer, abut seller, both in a real estate transaction, doesornot represent either in but doesornot either in atransaction, fiduciary capacity asrepresent a single agent.” a fiduciary capacity as amillion single agent.” “We’ve closed overor$60 worth of “We’ve closed over $60 worth of investment transactions formillion ourselves. We’ve investment transactions for ourselves. We’ve been the client and know the importance been client and know theKittrell importance of truetheclient representation,” says. of true clientwerepresentation,” says. “At Verve, are bound toKittrell our clients “At Verve, arerepresentation bound to our under singlewe agent andclients work under single agent and work to maximize their representation opportunity. We’re in a to maximize their opportunity. We’re business relationship with our clients.” in a business with our firm, clients.” “We’rerelationship a selective boutique and our “We’re a selective boutique firm, and our agents focus on no more than five clients at agents focus on no more than five clients at a time,” Long says. “We don’t stick a forasale time,” Long says. “We don’t stick a forsign with our picture on it in your yard sale with our on it in yourwhile yard and sign complete a picture hasty transaction and complete a hasty transaction while juggling a list of sellers. Our company is juggling a list ofour sellers. Ourassets company is here to market clients’ — not here toour market our brands.” clients’ assets — not further personal further our personal brands.” Representation can be complicated, so be complicated, so doRepresentation your research. can Safeguard your family’s do your by research. Safeguard family’s interests choosing the rightyour broker with interests choosing the right broker with the right by representation. the right representation.

V E R V E R E A LT YG RO U P.CO M V E R V E R E A LT YG RO U P.CO M

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LetLet thethe sunsun shine shine in when in when thethe awning awning is is fully fully retracted retracted andand cleanly cleanly tucked tucked away. away.

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W W

ithith spring spring and and summer summer approaching, approaching, thethe season season forfor outdoor outdoor entertainment entertainment and and living living is is here. here. And And nothing nothing is is as as crucial crucial to to thethe enjoyment enjoyment of ofallall outdoors outdoors as as shade. shade. ToTo create create anan enviable enviable outdoor outdoorexperience, experience,McNeill McNeillPalm Palmis isnow nowpoised poisedto toprovide providestate-ofstate-ofthe-art the-artautomated automatedshading shadingsystems systemsthat thatallow allowyou youto tomaximize maximizeyour your outdoor outdoor living. living. Established Established as as a skilled a skilled and and knowledgeable knowledgeable source source at at thethe forefront forefront of of automated automatedwindow windowshades shadesand anddraperies draperiesforforhome homeinteriors, interiors,McNeill McNeill Palm Palm hashas now now taken taken onon thethe great great outdoors outdoors with with equal equal expertise. expertise. With With 4545 years years of ofexperience, experience, they they have have gathered gathered a talented a talented and and experienced experienced staff staffthat thatis isknowledgeable knowledgeablein inthethemany manyaspects aspectsof ofshading shadingand andheat heat control. control.With Withthis thiswealth wealthof ofinformation, information,they theycan canably ablyaccomplish accomplish thethe most most complex complex projects. projects. New New to to thethe discerning discerning listlist of ofproducts products and and services, services,McNeill McNeillPalm Palmis isproud proudto tofeature featurestate-of-the-art state-of-the-artoutdoor outdoor

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shadings from Corradi. With this addition, they have raised the bar on luxurious environments â&#x20AC;&#x201D; right outside your door. Corradi is easy to love thanks to superior standards for construction and design that withstand the test of time and elements. Specializing in motorized retractable pergolas, awnings and screens, these products fuse impressive technology with sleek, modern designs. Designed and manufactured in Italy, Corradi has long graced finer European homes. Now that Corradi has added a new U.S.

manufacturing branch, creating an outstanding outdoor living space on our spectacular Gulf Coast has become an easy reality. And McNeill Palm is proud to offer these exceptional products. Whether enhancing the operational ease of indoor and outdoor comforts or expanding your atmosphere, the staff of McNeill Palm has a creative solution to accomplish your dream space. You can easily experience control and harmony in all your living areas. With such exceptional additions to their product offerings, McNeill Palm is perfectly suited to create any dreams you may have for your home.

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DEAL ESTATE

JUST LISTED

Welcome to One of 30A’s Most Unique Luxury Homes When you walk through this custom-made front door, you will be amazed to see the gorgeous interior of this beautifully designed, custom-built home, which consists of shellstone easy-care flooring and a chef’s Thermador kitchen offering a six-burner gas stove, oven and side-by-side counter depth refrigerator. For entertaining or quick dinners, there’s an additional café french door oven, martini bar with wine refrigerator, Scotsman ice machine and custom liquor drawers for bottle storage. Cambria countertops with a beautiful color palette throughout cover the custom cabinetry with self-closing doors and drawers — with no expense spared.

LISTED PRICE: $1,208,000 ADDRESS: 39 Loon Lake Drive, Santa Rosa Beach SQUARE FOOTAGE: 2,554 BEDROOMS: 3 BATHROOMS: 2.5 YEAR BUILT: 2017 FEATURES: As you retreat to your spacious master suite, you will find beautiful marble countertops with lighted marble in the powder bath along with a huge open shower and soaking tub for your enjoyment. The 10 sets of spectacular french doors will take you to your backyard oasis. Beautiful landscaping and an IPE decking boardwalk with custom lighting abounds; you will also find a relaxing fountain and separate grilling area for your enjoyment — perfect for entertaining.

CONTACT INFORMATION: The Ron White Team, Counts Real Estate Group, Inc. mybeachproperties@outlook.com Ron White, Counts Real Estate on 30A Cell: (850) 899-4018, Office: (850) 231-1483 5231 E. Co. Hwy 30A, Suite 100 Santa Rosa Beach

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PHOTOS BY DON MCNARON

APPEAL: Additional upgrades include high-end hardware throughout, state-of-the-art $15,000 high-tech security system, exterior lighting around the upper perimeter of the home, custom garage door, custom dog/beach shower in the garage, custom window coverings and more.

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2020 Projection $125 Million Four Locations:

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Loan Officers: 23 Loan Processors: 5 Loan Officer Assistants: 5 In-House Underwriter: 1 Closer: 1 Management Team: 4

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DEAL ESTATE

JUST LISTED

Coast is Clear in Seaside Situated just steps from Seaside’s town square, playground, fitness center and two pools, this home has been remodeled and decorated to showcase everything that Seaside is all about. The first floor features a modern kitchen with quartz counters, stainless steel appliances, island work space and bar area with wine cooler. The dining area includes a large table with wraparound banquet seating that will accommodate the entire family. The spacious living area has a gas fireplace and comfortable seating with french doors that open to the screened front porch, which becomes a beautiful extension of the living space. A half bath opens to the outdoor shower. A laundry room with owner’s closet is conveniently located off the kitchen. The second floor includes a master suite with a private balcony, luxury bath with his-and-her sinks and a large walk-in shower. The third floor features a sleeping tower for three and a deep set balcony overlooking all of Seaside.

LISTED PRICE: $1,390,000 ADDRESS: 56 Venice Circle SQUARE FOOTAGE: 1,852 heated/ cooled plus 600 square feet of porches BEDROOMS: 3, plus enclosed tower sleeps 3 BATHROOMS: 3.5 YEAR BUILT: 2005

APPEAL: Located in the awardwinning community of Seaside. A ladder leads you to the rooftop lounge, featuring panoramic views of amazing Seaside rooftops, including the Gulf. Outdoor storage for bikes and beach gear and private parking for two cars. CONTACT INFORMATION: Seaside Community Reality, Inc., Jacky Barker, (850) 974-0462

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PHOTOS BY MELLOW MEDIA

FEATURES: Brazilian cherry floors, fireplace, stainless steel appliances, tankless water heater, wine bar, roof top deck, outside shower, two on-site parking spaces. The queen guest bedroom has an en suite bath. A bunk room with four twin beds with access to a large hall bath with double vanities and shower.

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Medical Profiles

Take a note from best-selling author Anne Wilson Schaef who said, “Looking after my health today gives me a better hope for tomorrow.” Part of looking after our health is being as educated and informed as possible. In this special section of Emerald Coast Magazine, you’ll learn about a range of dedicated health care professionals, their practices and how their specialties can help keep you healthy. Start your path to a healthier you today by reading up on our good-for-you news. TURN THE PAGE TO LEARN MORE ABOUT YOUR DEDICATED HEALTH CARE PROFESSIONALS

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April–May 2020

Medical Profiles

DERMATOLOGY SPECIALISTS OF FLORIDA

Dr. Jon R. Ward, Dr. John H. Phillips & Dr. Michael A. Stickler

DR. WARD founded Dermatology Specialists of Florida in 2006

and has served as president since that time. Over the years, he has performed over 30,000 skin cancer surgeries using every technique available, including Mohs Micrographic Surgery, superficial radiation therapy, erbium laser ablation, cryosurgery, photodynamic therapy, electrosurgery and curettage. Dr. Ward takes into account the type of skin cancer, the size and location of the skin cancer, and the patient’s risk factors to determine the best way for each cancer to be treated. As a skin cancer specialist, he can provide cures and outcomes few others can replicate. Dr. Ward has been trained and recognized for excellence in non-invasive cosmetic procedures. He performs the Silhoutte Instalift®, the Sciton Laser Resurfacing® and ProFractional® treatments, the Sciton Forever Young BBL®, Botox ® and Jeaveau® injections, Radiesse®, Restylane®, and Juvederm ® injections. Dr. Ward also supervises and/or performs all hair transplant and leg vein procedures in the office. He has been named a Top Beauty Doc by New Beauty Magazine. Dr. Ward earned his medical degree from the University of Florida prior to completing his dermatology residency at the University of Massachusetts, where he earned the position of Chief Resident. He has been published in peer-reviewed medical journals and presented lectures across the country. He holds medical licenses in Florida, Georgia, Alabama and Mississippi, and he treats patients all across the southeastern U.S. Dr. Ward has served as president of the Emerald Coast Medical Association. He has served on the Board of Governors of the Florida Medical Association and on the Board of the Florida Society of Dermatology and Dermatologic Surgery.

April–May 2020 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

JON R. WARD, MD BOARD-CERTIFIED DERMATOLOGIST, MOHS SURGEON GULF BREEZE, PANAMA CITY, MARIANNA, PORT ST. JOE

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

DR. STICKLER introduced Mohs Micrographic Surgery to

MICHAEL A. STICKLER, MD BOARD-CERTIFIED DERMATOLOGIST, MOHS SURGEON DEFUNIAK SPRINGS, FORT WALTON BEACH, PANAMA CITY BEACH, SANTA ROSA BEACH

Dermatology Specialists of Florida in 2007 after serving as Chief Resident at the University of Florida Department of Dermatology Shands Hospital in Gainesville, Florida. Originally from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Dr. Stickler attended Penn State University, where he graduated magna cum laude with a degree in biological science. His high academic honors and being the son of a coal miner led him to medical school at West Virginia University, where he was the recipient of a John L. Lewis scholarship. He completed medical school as the Outstanding Graduate (Valedictorian) of his class. Dr. Stickler is board certified by the American Board of Dermatology. In addition to his extensive medical and surgical dermatology experience, Dr. Stickler provides cosmetic dermatology treatments, administering injectable products such as Botox®, Dysport®, Juvéderm®, Restylane®, Voluma® and others. Dr. Stickler and his wife, Johnna, relocated to the Panhandle of Florida in 2006 where they raise their three sons: Noah, Christian and Silas. In his free time, Dr. Stickler can be found coaching youth basketball and serving on a number of area boards including: the American Cancer Society, Seaside Neighborhood School and Destin Charity Wine Auction Foundation. As a former Eagle Scout himself, Dr. Stickler sponsors a local scholarship to assist area Scouts working toward this prestigious honor.

DR. PHILLIPS joined Dermatology Specialists of Florida in

2014 after nearly 30 years of private dermatology practice in Louisiana and Mississippi. He is a board-certified dermatologist and dermatologic cosmetic surgeon offering expertise in the diagnosis and treatment of skin cancer, acne and rosacea, as well as the use of advanced medical technology to repair and restore damaged and aging skin. Dr. Phillips received his undergraduate and medical degrees from Tulane University, where he was given the Order of the Gold Tipped Stethoscope Award for outstanding performance in clinical medicine. He also completed an internship in internal medicine and his dermatology residency at Tulane University Affiliated Hospitals. He is a fellow of the American College of Physicians, the American Academy of Dermatology and the American Academy of Dermatologic Surgery. JOHN H. PHILLIPS III, MD BOARD-CERTIFIED DERMATOLOGIST GULF BREEZE, MILTON, NAVARRE, PENSACOLA

(850) 233-DERM (3376) DermatologySpecialistsFL.com EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

April–May 2020

Medical Profiles

FLORIDA INSTITUTE OF NEUROSCIENCE

Dr. Noah Converse, Dr. Robert Feldman & Kenneth Ellison, PA-C

he Florida Institute of Neuroscience is widely known as a practice that pursues quality, ethical and effective surgical care. A strong sense of integrity is the driving force for all aspects of the practice. “We are very ethical, which means we seek more conservative options, and we have to be really confident the patient will have a good outcome before offering surgery,” said Dr. Robert Feldman. “When we do perform surgeries, it’s the least invasive option for the best possible results.” Dr. Feldman and his team have set themselves apart from any other medical practice by spending a significant amount of time with each patient and explaining complex medical issues in layman’s terms. Combined with an efficient and pleasant staff, their methods result in very high patient satisfaction. “By listening to the patient carefully, we get a better understanding of what is going on, which then leads us to use appropriate diagnostic testing and develop the best possible treatment options,” said Dr. Noah Converse. “Having a good surgical outcome is all based on a correct diagnosis.” “One of the most rewarding aspects of working at the FINE Institute is seeing a patient go from incapacitating pain to being pain-free,” said Kenneth Ellison, PA-C. Dr. Feldman reports that “because of the reputation of the FINE Institute, the practice is in very high demand and is therefore expanding. We recently moved into a new building (March 2020) and are expecting continued growth as we continue to provide the highest quality neurosurgical care.”

Dr. Noah Converse

Dr. Robert Feldman

320 Racetrack Road NW, Suite 100-D, Fort Walton Beach 115 Beech Ave. W., Crestview 870 Mack Bayou Road, Santa Rosa Beach (850) 863-3463 FINEInstitute.com

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Kenneth Ellison, PA-C

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NORTHWEST FLORIDA UROLOGY

Dr. Beibei Oelrich & Dr. Thomas Zachos

orthwest Florida Urology aims to be the first place you think of when you develop any urological needs. They specialize in minimally invasive surgical procedures and offer implants, prosthetics, cancer care and a variety of treatment options that few practices offer to the Northwest Florida region. Their Fort Walton Beach clinic is continuously expanding their staff and range of care. Despite such growth, their office runs smoother than ever. Dr. Beibei Oelrich and Dr. Thomas Zachos both credit the incredible staff. From the front desk, where the team is excellent at maintaining schedules, to the team dedicated to handling pharmacy and insurance-related needs, the staff ’s attention to detail is impeccable. “In all that we do, we aim to accommodate the needs of each patient,” said Dr. Oelrich. “This really makes us stand out because patients know they are being heard and taken care of. They come to our office and notice the difference.” The doctors spend a considerable amount of time going over the findings and results with each patient. They believe that patients should leave the office with a clear understanding of treatment options and all their questions answered. “Our practice continues to present expanding methods and be the strongest in the area because of our expertise,” said Dr. Zachos. “We get to restore the prospect of life, what could possibly be better compensation?”

Dr. Beibei Oelrich

Dr. Thomas Zachos

320 Racetrack Road NW, Suite 100-C, Fort Walton Beach (850) 863-0883 NWFLUrology.com EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

April–May 2020

Medical Profiles

NORTHWEST FLORIDA HEART INSTITUTE

Dr. Eric Sandwith & Dr. Amit Patel

he heart and lungs are central to the body and essential to its function, supplying blood and oxygen to all of our organs. The heart and the lungs have very important jobs, which is why Dr. Eric Sandwith and Dr. Amit Patel of Northwest Florida Heart Institute take their own roles very seriously. The practice performs all major cardiac and lung surgeries including valve replacements, bypass surgery, anti-arrhythmia surgery, heart failure surgery and more. In every surgery, they pursue the least invasive option, which can range from replacing heart valves with catheters to removing a lung tumor through a less than 2-inch incision. They specialize in providing next-generation heart and lung therapies that are not offered in most parts of the country. Their belief is that no patient should have to leave the area in order to receive the highest quality of care. “Heart disease is the No. 1 killer in the United States followed by lung issues; with those statistics, we are able to help the largest amounts of patients,” said Dr. Patel. “Because of this, we strive to provide outcomes that are not only ideal for the patients quality of life, but are as good, if not better, than larger practices.” While this practice may be small in size, they are big on personalized care and individualized attention. Rather than being passed around to different staff members, you see the same team before, during and after surgery. “We stick to some relatively specific guidelines whenever identifying a pathology because we have to

1032 Mar Walt Drive, Unit 230, Fort Walton Beach (850) 862-3194 NFLHeartInstitute.com

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check every aspect of the person, which is something other fields rarely have to do,” said Dr. Sandwith. “We evaluate the heart, lungs, brain, legs, stomach and more to ensure that we catch anything that could possibly cause complications. We do these things to not only heal the heart, but also the person as a whole.”

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NORTHWEST FLORIDA GASTROENTEROLOGY Dr. Tri Huu Huynh

t Northwest Florida Gastroenterology, patientoriented service and care are top priority. In treating patients like they are family members, a level of comfort and trust forms. This trust has led to a rapid growth and influx of patients. Gastroenterological patients span from young to old and can encompass a large umbrella of diseases and treatments. Whether it is a simple fix or a lifelong complication, Dr. Huynh focuses on education in order to manage and maintain health. Dr. Huynh is always educating himself on the latest guidelines and techniques to best serve the community and those who travel specifically for treatments. Northwest Florida Gastroenterology is the only practice in the Panhandle that offers endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography. The practice has plans in place to obtain even more GI procedures and equipment to further their impact. “We had a really strong influence almost immediately in this community,” said Dr. Huynh. “We are making differences in the quality of care and procedures we offer. These results further my passion for this field, which results in so many immediately gratifying solutions or preventative options.”

Dr. Tri Huu Huynh

320 Racetrack Road NW, Suite 100-B, Fort Walton Beach 369 N. Main St., Crestview (850) 357-8151 NWFLGastroenterology.com EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

April–May 2020

Medical Profiles

NORTHWEST FLORIDA PHYSICIANS FOR WOMEN Dr. Stephanie Caywood Dr. Diana Decotis-Smith

r. Stephanie Caywood and Dr. Diana DeCotisSmith have a passion for taking care of women. As women themselves, they strive to provide comprehensive and caring obstetrics and gynecology care at Northwest Florida Physicians for Women that matches each woman’s uniqueness. “We are unique in the fact that we are both women taking care of women, and we understand the ups and downs,” said DeCotis-Smith. “We understand what it’s like to deliver a baby and take care of a family. We are not just physicians but can also empathize in life.” A hallmark of their practice — and something they take pride in — is their ability to listen to each woman’s needs and answer their questions. They innately understand the importance of expressing concerns about infertility, hormonal management, menopause, labor and all gynecological issues. In order to provide the highest quality of care, they participate in annual certifications and are constantly keeping up to date with the latest information in the field. In turn, they take each patient’s compliments and concerns to heart. While the practice is young, it has grown substantially and rapidly, urging the physicians to evolve and grow alongside the community to provide a broader scope of care. “We were both drawn to this field because of the versatility that makes every day different from patient

320 Racetrack Road NW, Suite 100-A, Fort Walton Beach 4400 Highway 20 E., Suite 201, Niceville (850) 315-8360 NWFLPhysiciansForWomen.com

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appointments to office work to surgeries and deliveries,” said Caywood. “We love when women bring in their happy, healthy babies, especially when they have difficulties with infertility or during pregnancy. It’s an honor and a reward to help them.”

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ORTHOPAEDIC ASSOCIATES Dr. Jacob Seales & Dr. Mark Tenholder

PHOTO COURTESY OF ALISSA ARYN COMMERCIAL

r. Jacob Seales and Dr. Mark Tenholder always had an inclination toward the sciences, a passion for helping people and a shared background in college athletics. To both, orthopedics seemed a natural fit. “Orthopedics, more than any other field, felt like it truly affected a patient’s quality of life,” said Dr. Seales. “A patient comes in with pain that affects their daily activities, but after surgery they can soon return to enjoying those activities without restriction.” With offices in Destin, Niceville, Fort Walton Beach and an office soon opening in Crestview, Orthopaedic Associates is your one-stop-shop for all orthopedic care. They have two surgery centers, digital X-ray and MRI facilities, physical therapists and primary care doctors. With these options, they can provide everything from a sports physical to the most advanced orthopedic surgeries. The practice excels in their use of robotic joint replacement. In 2017, they were the first in the area to obtain the equipment. While robotic joint replacement had been around for 10 years, it is a fairly uncommon

equipment for practices to obtain because of its price and the training it requires. With robotic joint replacement, the doctors use electronic probes during surgery to map out the patient’s anatomy via computer and match it to a CT scan obtained prior to the procedure. The equipment itself is a mobile machine with an articulated arm that holds certain surgical tools. Dr. Seales and Dr. Tenholder have been trained to operate the arm, which replicates the computerized procedure to match each patient’s specific anatomy and individual needs. The machine will not move by itself and contains a haptic boundary that prevents it from moving the incorrect way or straying from the computerized path. This technology increases surgical accuracy and ensures that the procedure is the most anatomically natural. Robotic joint replacement is ideal for total hip replacement and total/partial knee replacement, and it will likely be applied to other orthopedic procedures in the future. “We are providing the best quality of surgery possible with this technology,” said Dr. Tenholder. “Successful industry relies on technological advancement, and medicine is no exception.”

Destin | Fort Walton Beach | Niceville (850) 863-2153 OrthoAssociates.net EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

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Medical Profiles

COASTAL SKIN SURGERY & DERMATOLOGY TELL US ABOUT YOUR PRACTICE Coastal Skin Surgery & Dermatology

is devoted to providing comprehensive medical, surgical and advanced cosmetic dermatology treatments and procedures. Our focus remains on providing the highest standard of care in a private, comfortable and compassionate setting.

WHAT SERVICES TO DO YOU PROVIDE? We offer an extensive variety

of dermatology services, including preventive care and full skin examinations, the most up-to-date cosmetic services, including lasers and injectables, the diagnosis and treatment of all conditions affecting the skin, hair and nails, plus advanced in-house surgical services for the treatment of skin cancers. Our practice proudly offers Mohs Micrographic Surgery, performed by Dr. David Adams. Dr. Adams is a fellow of the American College of Mohs Surgery, a qualification earned by fewer than eight percent of all dermatologists nationwide. He has been performing Mohs Surgery for over 14 years on the Gulf Coast and is one of only three fellowship-trained Mohs surgeons serving the greater Emerald Coast region.

WHAT IS YOUR PHILOSOPHY? It is our goal to provide our

community with the highest possible level of dermatology care. We make accessing our team of highly trained physicians easy and convenient with our four offices in Miramar Beach, Fort Walton, Niceville and Panama City Beach. All of our Coastal Skin Surgery & Dermatology offices are staffed with full-time board-certified physicians, physician assistants and a caring and professional office staff. The development of long-term relationships with our patients is always our goal, and we are always accepting new patients to our practice. We welcome patients of all ages, including infants.

Miramar Beach 12469 Emerald Coast Parkway | (850) 654-3376

Panama City Beach 12139 Panama City Beach Parkway | (850) 500-3376

Fort Walton Beach 914 Mar Walt Drive, Suite A | (850) 314-7546

CoastalSkinSurgery.com

Niceville 4400 Hwy. 20 E, Suite 410 | (850) 897-4900

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WHAT IS THE SERCRET TO YOUR SUCCESS? Quality is priority one. Our teams of highly trained and experienced professionals all share a passion to deliver the best quality of care within our community. We strive to make every visit a pleasant experience that exceeds expectations from start to finish. Discover why so many in our area trust the dermatologists of Coastal Skin Surgery & Dermatology.

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EMERALD COAST COMPOUNDING PHARMACY

Regina K. Jaquess, Pharm. D. TELL US ABOUT YOUR BACKGROUND. I received my doctorate in pharmacy from the University of Louisiana at Monroe in 2009. I have received post-graduate training in pharmaceutical compounding, which is my passion. I am a member of the American Pharmacists Association (APhA) and a member of Professional Compounding Center of America (PCCA). WHAT IS YOUR BUSINESS PHILOSOPHY? When it comes to patient health care, I believe there should be a connection between patient, physician and pharmacist. At Emerald Coast Compounding Pharmacy (ECCP), we strive to develop a comprehensive plan to improve each patient’s overall health and quality of life.

Our connection with our clients has earned us for the past four years (2019, 2018, 2017 and 2016) the “Best of the Emerald Coast” award for “Best Pharmacy.” WHAT SERVICES DOES YOUR COMPANY OFFER? At ECCP we formulate your prescriptions to meet your individual needs. Our facility addresses a range of medical concerns including: anti-aging, bioidentical hormone replacement therapy, dental, dermatology, gastroenterology, infertility, pain management, pediatric, podiatry, sports medicine and veterinary. WHAT ABOUT YOUR INTERESTS OUTSIDE OF WORK? I am currently a USA Water Ski team member, 10 time World Champion and

12 time World Record Holder in both Slalom and Overall. I am also a member of the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR), West Florida Chapter.

1719 S. Co Hwy 393, Santa Rosa Beach | (850) 622-5800 | ECCPharmacy.com

GULF COAST FACIAL PLASTICS Daniel Daube, M.D., F.A.C.S.

WHAT OTHER SERVICES DO YOU PROVIDE? OUR MEDICAL SPA: We offer several laser options that provide skin tightening, fat reduction, hair and tattoo removal, as well as age spot elimination. Other lasers provide facial resurfacing and wrinkle treatments. Leg and facial vein removal is also a service. OUR AESTHETIC SERVICES: They include LED Light Therapy, numerous peels and various injectable options. We also specialize in rosacea and acne treatments, as well as our specially designed Triphasic Program. Enjoy oxygenating facials and our specially formulated skincare products to keep you looking amazing!

PHOTO COURTESY OF KRISTIN GUIN

WHAT SETS YOUR PRACTICE APART? FACELIFTS: After 25 years of specializing in facial plastic surgery, we provide the Gold Standard for the most lasting impact on the face. In our experience, we have found that if our facelift patients chose the Gold Standard, they are more pleased with the outcome. A string lift only lifts the face a few millimeters, whereas a facelift creates dramatic results by tightening the underlying musculature of the face, and removing excess skin; plus, this option may last up to a decade, whereas string lifts usually last from one to three years.

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We’re Embrace Florida Kids. We provide homes, healing and hope to vulnerable children who come from families in crisis, placed in foster care at no fault of their own. Together, we’re embracing children and empowering families to create home environments where adversity meets God’s grace and unconditional love. Ready to get involved? Learn how you can love and support vulnerable kids in our Northwest Florida communities.

Sometimes, the thing a child needs most...is to feel loved.

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100 College Boulevard E. | Niceville, FL A portion of all ticket sales support NWF State College scholarships. Northwest Florida State College is committed to equal access/equal opportunity in its programs, activities, and employment. For additional information, visit www.nwfsc.edu.

STORIES from the

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

A PRIL / M AY 2 0 2 0

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Ashton Welborn with Dr. Jeffrey Schwartz

ASHTON WELBORN From childhood cancer patient to pediatric nurse 2

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Ashton Welborn’s mother knew something was wrong with her second-grader. When the always-hungry little girl stopped eating and became pale and weak, she took her to the pediatrician. Blood work determined it was mono, but her doctor wanted a second look at the labs. “Your daughter has cancer,” she said — four words no parent ever wants to hear. The doctor told Ashton’s mother to take her straight to the emergency room at Children’s of Alabama in Birmingham, but she didn’t hear any of that. In a daze, she drove her little girl to their hometown E.R. in Tuscaloosa.

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Finally, on the road to the right hospital, 7-year-old Ashton, her mother and grandmother sang hymns and prayed. Once there, it was a blur of tests and blood work. Then a resident at Children’s of Alabama, Dr. Jeffrey Schwartz confirmed the diagnosis: Ashton had leukemia. She received her Mediport the following day and underwent two years of chemotherapy. “My mom called him Doogie Howser,” Ashton recalls. “I didn’t know who that was, but I guess he looked like the guy from the TV show. He always wore crazy bowties. He was a very fun doctor.” That was 2003. Now a nurse herself with the Studer Family Children’s Hospital at Ascension Sacred Heart in Pensacola, Ashton is going on 17 years of remission. When she was first accepted into the nursing program, one of Ashton’s clinical rotations was in the Studer Family Children’s Hospital. She saw a picture of a familiar face in the elevator — Dr. Jeffrey Schwartz, now the Medical Director of Pediatric Oncology. While her family was in town to help her recover from surgery following a basketball injury, they set up a surprise visit at Dr. Schwartz’s clinic. “He didn’t recognize me. I am much taller, and I have hair now,” Ashton says. “But he recognized my mom and grandmother.” From that moment on, the young nurse updated the doctor who helped save her life at the end of every school year at Pensacola Christian College. When she graduated and began looking for a job, she never expected she’d have the chance to work alongside him. In Dr. Schwartz’s office, there is a small table lined with tiles, each with a tiny handprint. One reads: “Ashton, 8 years old.” On that table now sits a copy of a book she wrote in middle school about her cancer story and the role he played in it. “I see him on the floor now. It’s so neat to work with him,” she says. “That’s my doctor.”

Growing up in and out of the hospital, Ashton was always intrigued by the medical field. Many of the friends she met in chemotherapy aren’t here anymore or continue to fight their battles. When Ashton wonders why her life was spared, she believes she was called to help others going through the same thing. “Working as a nurse, I’m able to share my story,” she says. “The parents can say, ‘She beat something so big … my child can do this.’ ” It also encourages the kids, even though they might not fully grasp what’s happening in the moment. Sometimes people say they understand, even when they haven’t been through it themselves. But Ashton has. She remembers her own nurses — and of course Dr. Schwartz — who made such an impact on her life. Here’s what she would say to a child battling cancer: “Take it one day at a time. Do everything you can to stay healthy. It’s hard to see the see the light at the end of the tunnel, but eventually it does come. Just keep faith. Pray. That’s all we did. Know that God will comfort you. Family and friends help a lot.” Maybe a family in the hospital can’t see the light at the end of their journey with childhood cancer, but they can see a bright young nurse at the end of hers. Newly engaged, Ashton’s ultimate goal is to work in pediatric hematology oncology. “Just to help those patients and families going through the same thing I went through will hopefully give them hope for that day in the future,” she shares. “Even if it just brings a light for the second, it’s worth everything I’ve been through.”

Sacred Heart’s new Bear Family Foundation Pediatric Oncology Center for Hope will provide a dedicated space to serve patients of childhood cancer and their families. To learn more, please visit GiveSacredHeart.org.

A MESSAGE FROM CAROL CARLAN At the foundation, we see first-hand the power and blessing of those called to serve from the heart. And while there are many, many ways of doing this, one of the most impactful is servant leadership – such as that you’ll read about in Tom VanOsdol’s story. President and CEO of Ascension Florida, he is charged with leading our health ministry into the future. He shares why he considers his role to be both a gift and a privilege. And he speaks to the strength and benefits we might not realize that Ascension Florida brings to the communities where it serves. John Russell serves from the heart in a unique way that lets us be involved in giving. As president of the Destin Charity Wine Auction Foundation, his passion is helping non-profits fulfill their mission of bettering the lives of children in Northwest Florida. Ascension Sacred Heart Hospital Emerald Coast is one of the many organizations that benefit from the organization’s efforts. Other stories in this issue demonstrate how impactful and personally rewarding that serving from the heart can be: Ashton Welborn uses her personal journey to bring hope to children fighting cancer; Mya Clark gives back by standing (and dancing) for those who cannot; and James Hosman serves the Studer Family Children’s Hospital, which cared for his brother’s twin boys. Each individual featured in our stories serves from the heart in their own way. We are grateful for the blessings they bring to those we serve! With a grateful heart,

Carol Carlan President, Ascension Sacred Heart Foundation

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JAMES HOSMAN

Proactively serving

James Hosman, market president of Centennial Bank, has served on the Ascension Sacred Heart Foundation Board for several years now. It’s a volunteer position he doesn’t take lightly, knowing the full measure of responsibility that goes along with it. He is quick to tell you he never agrees to become a board member unless it involves guidance of a worthwhile cause he believes in. Once he makes that decision to serve, James is fully committed. He actively participates in board meetings, supporting what is most beneficial to the foundation. “I tell a lot of people that I serve on the board. We are fortunate to have this great hospital here, and people need to know that. I see what this state-of the-art facility can do for kids, and I do what I can in this community to help provide that experience. It means a lot to me.” James’ personal experience with Sacred Heart dates back to when his brother’s twin boys spent time in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). The babies were transported to that NICU after serious problems were detected post birth at another hospital. For a 24-hour period, the siblings’ lives hung in the balance, and one spent three weeks in the NICU. But today, James is happy to say, “I have two healthy nephews that we credit a lot to Sacred Heart.” He contrasts that long-ago experience with what the new Children’s Hospital

James Hosman and nephews Jordan and Jansen

provides. At the time his nephews were transported, they were in a small NICU ambulance with no space for their parents. Today’s new NICU ambulance, which cost $700,000, can convey mom and dad alongside the infant. The old NICU featured all bassinets lined up in a single large room, with a recliner in front of each one for the parent. There was absolutely no privacy. The new hospital’s NICU offers huge private rooms where parents can stay with their baby. James points out that while being in a hospital with a baby is stressful for parents, a private room offers a degree of separation from the overall environment. This helps to alleviate some of the parental stress he believes an infant can sense. “The facility we have now,” he says, “can eliminate that one additional factor that may delay the recovery of the child.” If people ask him what they can do in the way of ongoing support for the Children’s Hospital, he shares that any

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and all contributions — large or small — are appreciated. One hundred percent of what they give will go to the hospital, helping to meet the needs of the kids.

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UWF DANCE MARATHON Standing (and dancing) for those who cannot

Mya Clark has been participating in the Children’s Miracle Network Dance Marathon at the University of West Florida (UWF) for three years, working as team captain and membership director before becoming executive director of the event in 2020. A senior majoring in journalism with dreams of becoming a sports reporter, Mya is a full-time student with a paying job who puts 10 hours per week into this cause so close to her heart. As a child growing up in Tallahassee, Florida, Mya was in and out of the hospital. The summer before her freshman year of high school, she became lightheaded and went to urgent care. She was referred to Shands in Gainesville, where her family learned she had a B12 def iciency. Later in life, her nephew was also a “miracle” child. “I participate in Dance Marathon to give back to an organization that’s given so much

Mya Clark with the 2019 University of West Florida Dance Marathon Executive Committee

to me and other kids,” Mya says. “When you’re sick and in the hospital, all you want to do is go and be with your friends.” Now, Mya is dancing with several hundred friends to raise money “for the kids.” at the Studer Family Children’s Hospital, your local Children’s Miracle Network Hospital. Dance Marathon has grown exponentially since it arrived on the UWF campus five years ago. Totaling only a few thousand dollars over the first several years, the event raised $57,000 in 2019. After touring the new Studer Family Children’s Hospital at Ascension Sacred Heart, Mya says she and her teammates had a newfound appreciation for the technologies they have helped provide, as well as the interactive rooms and family spaces that make life a little brighter for patients. Under her direction, the teams raise money from July to February each year. On event day, they all dance — and never sit down — from 3 p.m. to midnight.

As she puts it, “You’re standing for those who can’t.” The day kicks off with a speech from Ascension Sacred Heart Foundation or a Studer Family Children’s Hospital Miracle family. There’s food, games and fundraising, and former patients often attend. Teams try to hit goals such as $62 in an hour, representing the average of 62 children who enter a Children’s Miracle Network Hospital every hour. Mya loves seeing the way everyone on campus comes together, for one day, for a common goal. “If you have a way to get involved, get involved,” she says. “You never know if it could be you. Knowing you could make a difference just by donating $5 … it really matters, no matter how small.” The UWF Dance Marathin was held on Feb. 29, 2020. To learn more about the cause and how you can help, please visit events. dancemarathon.com.

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JOHN RUSSELL

Service in Support of the Children

John Russell serves as president of the Destin Charity Wine Auction Foundation (DCWAF), one of the top wine auction foundations in the country and the largest nonprofit fundraising organization on Florida’s Emerald Coast. Born in rural western Pennsylvania, John grew up with five sisters. As a youngster, his favorite sport was football, and he continues to be an avid Steelers fan. After graduating from Penn State, he began his career in the hotel business, which proved to be a great fit for him. “I’ve been in the service industry, one way or another, for as long as I can remember,” he says. “I was taught the value of service at an early age. I tell people that if I was born 300 years ago, I would have been a butler.” John moved 20 times in 30 years working for major hotel chains. But once he arrived for work at the Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort, he and his wife knew that the beautiful Emerald Coast was a home they would never leave. Today, he oversees DCWAF events, raising money for organizations seeking to better the lives of children in Northwest Florida. It is work he is passionate about. “The idea of having a greater reason to come to work is what I love about the foundation so much,” he says. “If any of us can lessen the burden of another human being, I don’t think you can do much more than that. I live for it.” The first DCWAF event took place in 2006. Ascension Sacred Heart Emerald Coast and Children in Crisis, Inc. are the two oldest organizations supported by auction funds. The 15th annual Destin Charity Wine Auction will take place April 24–26, 2020, with the money raised going to 16 charitable organizations. “These nonprofits participate every step of the way, doing a lot of the work,” John explains. “We’re just the glue. They make the auctions successful, and it is their mission that people are investing in when they come to the events. What makes this a great place to live is the generous spirit that’s here.” Money raised by the wine auctions also gives charitable organizations the resource of time because they don’t have to expend

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effort seeking financial contributions. They can devote that time to their mission. “Children are our future,” John says. “As a society and as a community, we’re only as good as the people that live here. If our children aren’t given the opportunity to thrive, unless steps are taken to rescue the young who are suffering, they will have a very difficult time as adults.”

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Tom VanOsdol washing a gentleman’s feet during the 2019 Medical Mission at Home

TOM VANOSDOL

Leading Ascension Florida to Its Future

Tom VanOsdol knew, as he grew up, that his life would involve some manner of helping people. He initially was drawn to a career in speech pathology, which led to the operations side of healthcare and then to the Catholic health ministry. Today, he is President and CEO of Ascension Florida, serving in a role that he cherishes and approaches as both a gift and a privilege. Together, we have the blessing and the opportunity every day to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others. “Everything we do is about bringing the healing mission of Jesus to individuals and families at very difficult times or very special times in their lives,” Tom explains. “It’s a blessing I will never take for granted. I am, and always will be, a direct patient caregiver at heart.” He speaks of the strength and benefits that people might not realize Ascension Florida brings to the communities we serve. “Ascension has such a tremendous wealth of resources and knowledge, stateof-the-art clinical practices and broadbased infrastructural and operational support for our ministries, all of which create real value and differential

advantages for us. We are far stronger as a function of what we share across our national ministry than any organization would ever be on its own.” At the same time, he points out, there is a mutual benefit and bi-directional sharing and value creation involved. Best practices identified in the Florida ministries are disseminated throughout Ascension’s national network of ministries (providing care in 21 states), adding to its overall strength. In Ascension’s portfolio of nationwide assets, Florida has been identified as one of four major markets where all strategic projections forecast significant population growth. Accordingly, leadership and economic capital resources have been allocated to provide support and enable the investments necessary to lead our respective markets for the long term. “We’re already a strong and vibrant health ministry across the state,” says Tom, “and we’ve got the commitment and confidence from our national ministry to grow and make sure we’re out front serving our community and especially those most in need for decades to come.” Shortly after assuming his position with Ascension Florida, Tom and wife Kathy

contributed a substantial charitable gift to the Children’s Hospital. He regards the Children’s Hospital as a center of excellence second to none, a resource not available in most communities our size, and an absolutely life-changing blessing for those we’re so blessed to serve. Considering himself uniquely fortunate to participate in its mission and serve alongside so many gifted and dedicated professionals, he felt obligated to give back philanthropically and support the ministry, and to lead his team by his team example. Tom has been married to Kathy for 30 years; they have two children, Hope and Matthew. Kathy, a speech pathologist, is currently pursuing a master’s degree in divinity and will be ordained ultimately as a pastor. A lifelong learner, Tom is enrolled in the executive leadership program in the Mendoza College of Business at the University of Notre Dame, where he will complete this latest chapter in his studies in late 2020. He expresses a tremendous passion for reading, music, exercise and continued self-development while always seeking new ways to help others, just as he began in healthcare over 32 years ago.

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HEART

S P O N S O R E D R E P O RT

25TH ANNIVERSARY CORDOVA MALL BALL Our 25th Anniversary Cordova Mall Ball, presented by Sandy Sansing Dealerships, was an incredible night of fun for one special reason — our children! We are moved by the outpouring of support and compassion shown toward the children and families in the care of the Studer Family Children’s Hospital at Ascension Sacred Heart. All proceeds from the evening are helping construct the all-new Bear Family Foundation Pediatric Oncology Center for Hope, which offers nine all-private rooms, a playroom, lounge, laundry room and gym — enabling families to spend as much time together as possible while they focus on healing. We extend a special thanks to our sponsors, restaurants and volunteers who gave so generously in support of our children, and we thank the more than 2,500 community-minded patrons who joined us in celebration!

ABOUT THE ASCENSION SACRED HEART FOUNDATION Since 1915, Ascension Sacred Heart has been at the heart of healing for Northwest Florida and South Alabama. Like our founders, the Daughters of Charity, Ascension 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 Ascension Sacred Heart Foundation. Through this charitable giving, Ascension 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 Ascension Sacred Heart’s mission of care along the Gulf Coast.

A SC E N SION S ACR E D H E A RT FO U N DATIO N | GIVESACREDHEART.ORG

destinations

APR/MAY 2020

VISITING NOTEWORTHY PLACES NEAR AND FAR

â&#x2020;&#x2DC;

The Taj Mahal stands as a storied and symmetrical symbol of India.

GETAWAY

PHOTO BY JAVARMAN3 / ISTOCK / GETTY IMAGES PLUS

INDIA

A colorful country worth experiencing by JACK MACALEAVY

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e’ve all seen pictures of the Great Wall of China, with the structure snaking into the horizon. We’ve seen video of Stonehenge, with the sun creeping upward in the background. We’ve seen impressive images of Machu Picchu, with its jaw-dropping peaks. But nothing compares to seeing it in person. Take the Taj Mahal. I’ve seen few things that can match the beauty, symmetry and story of the 17th century structure. Some call it a mausoleum of love. Shah Jahan built it to honor his wife Mumtaz Mahal, who died during childbirth. There she rests in the middle of the memorial, with one half of her body on one side and the other half on the other. Her husband is buried next to her, breaking the symmetry.

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The Taj Mahal, that enduring symbol of India, marked several highlights on our 14-day spring trip that focused on the northern part of this colorful country of multiple languages, religions, challenges and wonders. Our trip was part of emerging “Developing Destination” experience in the global travel industry. You can find such experiences in India, China, Southeast Asia, Africa and the Middle East, as well as in Central America and South America. Experienced travelers who have navigated the popular markets of Europe and the Caribbean could certainly find their own way to the developed cities of each area and explore them well. To immerse yourself in the land and culture, however, you’d do well to book through a luxury travel company such as Abercrombie & Kent.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF ABERCROMBIE & KENT

destinations

↖↑ The Rambagh Palace in Jaipur, west of Agra in the northern part of the country, boasts Prince Charles and the late first lady Jacqueline Kennedy among its guests.

â&#x2020;&#x201C;INDIAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S TOP GUIDE

Vikram Singh Shaktawat For 25 years, Vikram has led tours exclusively for Abercrombie & Kent, and he has done private tours for heads of state, business tycoons and Hollywood celebrities. His specialization is culture, wildlife, flora and fauna, and he covers India, Bhutan, Nepal, Tibet and China. He is also a retired cricket player. Contact:

vikbohra@yahoo.com +9198290418290

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↑← Africa isn’t the only place that offers enchanting safaris. In India, you might spot a Bengal tiger. Depending on where you stay, you might even see one from your hotel room. ↘ The Taj Mahal offers a breathtaking view from any distance, and it takes on a different color depending on the time of day.

The company employs experienced, local guides and support personnel who smooth every edge of your journey. And in a place where comparatively few travelers have tread, you’re bound to encounter rough edges. On our India trip, when a canceled internal flight brought the threat of days stuck at a rural airport, Abercrombrie & Kent made a $30,000 investment in the form of a private air charter, ensuring we stayed on schedule. And consider the problem of illness, which hit my wife on that flight.

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Abercrombie had a wheelchair summoned for a long trek to the bus and had a doctor waiting at our hotel. Abercrombie & Kent always makes our experiences comfortable and memorable, with lavish rooms that offer spectacular views. Imagine opening your shades to a grazing spotted deer, a leaping Bengal tiger or the sunlit Taj Mahal. On our trip to India, Abercrombie guided us via plane, train and bus on visits to Delhi, Mumbai and Panna National Park, among several other places. Here’s our takeaway of the country: It works. You wonder how it works in a country with more than 1.3 billion people, many of whom struggle to eke out a living. But it works. Even the highways manage to work, as drivers turn six-lane highways into eight lanes and cooperate. And maybe soon it will work even better: The government has embarked on an ambitious infrastructure program that

PHOTO BY LINDHA STEFFEN (TIGER AND HOLI FESTIVAL), JANSSENKRUSEPRODUCTIONS / ISTOCK / GETTY IMAGES PLUS (GANGES RIVER) AND COURTESY OF ABERCROMBIE & KENT

destinations

↙ Hindus consider the Ganges River sacred and purifying, even as India’s dense population wears on it. → The Khajuraho Group of Monuments, in the state of Madhya Pradeshl

offers promise in the years to come. The improvements to roads, railways and air travel will offer better access to all that this country has to offer, including: The Taj Mahal. Yes, we have more to say about it. You might not know that the building changes colors depending on the time of day and on how the marble reflects sunlight and moonlight. We could see the Taj Mahal from our hotel room in Agra. We went to see it up close one evening. The building appeared golden or brown. We visited again the next morning, and the building glowed pink. The Ganges River. Hindus consider it sacred and purifying. Upon death, the custom is to have one’s ashes returned to the river. We visited Varanasi, where we observed a cremation ceremony that took place beside the river in an area about the size of a basketball court. It is a simple two-hour ceremony, in which the family dips a wrapped body in the river and then places it upon a wooden pyre, which is lit. Family surrounds the fire and prays until the pyre is reduced to ashes, which get returned to the river. The Holi Festival. Agra is a city of festivals within a country of festivals. We happened to be in Agra during the Holi Festival, a nationwide tradition that celebrates the arrival of spring in the most colorful way. We joined others in wearing white cotton outfits and throwing dye on as many people as we could. ↑ The Holi Festival, a nationwide tradition that celebrates the arrival of spring, leaves participants wearing a colorful look.

When I said India is a colorful country, I meant it. EC EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

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PROMOTION

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calendar PROMOTION

PHOTOS COURTESY OF SANDESTIN GOLF AND BEACH RESORT, TALLAHASSEE TENNIS CHALLENGER, TALLAHASSEE MEMORIAL HEALTHCARE AND THE TMH FOUNDATION, EMERALD COAST THEATRE COMPANY AND CULTURAL ARTS ALLIANCE OF WALTON COUNTY

APRIL 16–19

Sandestin Wine Festival The 34th annual Sandestin Wine Festival, named the “Best Annual Event” by Destin Magazine, is known as the best event in the Visit South Walton Beaches Wine and Food Festival area. Four days of unique events open up a wide range of experiences from attending wine dinners with celebrity chefs, participating in preview events throughout the year, and taking part in wine tastings that showcase hundreds of wines.

APRIL 20–26

Tallahassee Tennis Challenger

For more events in the EC, visit EmeraldCoastMagazine.com and 850tix.com. compiled by Rebecca Padgett

MAY 2020

ART MONTH

→ Art Month South Walton is an initiative of the Cultural

Arts Alliance of Walton County with the purpose to bring communities, organizations and businesses together to present quality arts and entertainment to the community. Spanning the month of May, Art Month will feature visual, performing and literary arts programming in diverse formats and in various venues throughout South Walton.

Additional information is available at CulturalArtsAlliance.com/art-month.

MAY 14–17

TREASURE ISLAND → Emerald Coast Theatre Company presents

Treasure Island. The feared black spot, a dead Billy Bones and a treasure map to Captain Flint’s gold — stow away on the Hispaniola with Long John Silver and the crew as they hunt for hidden treasure on a remote island. Our young hero, Emily, finds mutiny, treason and double-dealings around every corner in this reinvented classic tale that promises twists at every turn.

Visit SandestinWineFestival.com for tickets and information.

REGIONAL

APR/MAY 2020

Visit EmeraldCoastTheatre.org/on-stage for tickets and additional info.

REGIONAL

APRIL 22

GOLDEN GALA XXXVII

Challenger presented by Visit Tallahassee will feature exciting professional tennis in your own backyard, including ATP tour players ranked in the top 200 in the world. See the stars of tomorrow today.

→ Tallahassee Memorial HealthCare and the TMH Foundation proudly announce Golden Gala XXXVII — starring OneRepublic. Golden Gala XXXVII will take place at the Donald L. Tucker Civic Center. Now in its 37th year, Golden Gala continues to hold its place as the region’s premier charitable and social event. Golden Gala XXXVII will benefit the Sharon Ewing Walker Breast Health Center.

For more information, visit TallahasseeChallenger.com.

For more information and to purchase a table, visit TMH.org/GoldenGala.

→ The Tallahassee Tennis

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calendar

Pharmaceuticals Built

for

APR/MAY 2020

You

because you are unique ...

MAY 15–16

Digital Graffiti

→ Digital Graffiti at Alys Beach is a one-of-a-kind projection art festival where artists use the latest digital technologies to project their original works onto the iconic white walls of Alys Beach. Each year, the festival attracts digital artists, filmmakers, interactive designers, photographers, VJs, and fans of art, design, technology and architecture. Thousands of dollars in cash prizes are awarded to artists, with digital submissions being received from as far away as Israel, Austria, Canada, Germany, London, India, France, Italy and China. Visit DigitalGraffiti.com for more information.

Pharmaceutical compounding allows for your medical provider to offer specialized treatment. We can formulate your prescriptions to meet your individual needs. Anti-Aging Bio-Identical Hormones Replacement Therapy Thyroid Replacement Therapy Dental

Dermatology Gastroenterology Infertility Men’s & Women’s Health Pain Management

Pediatric Podiatry Sports Medicine Veterinary And More! JUNE 17–21

1719 S Co. Highway 393, Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459 www.eccpharmacy.com, info@eccpharmacy.com Monday–Friday, 9 a.m.–5 p.m.

850-622-5800 Fax: 850-622-5802

2016–2019

PHARMACY

Facebook.com/ECCPharmacy Twitter.com/ECCPharmacy Instagram.com/ECCPharmacy

EMERALD COAST BLUE MARLIN CLASSIC

→ Taking place in one of the most productive fisheries in the United States, timed to coincide with the peak of the Gulf Coast’s blue marlin season and located at the South’s No. 1ranked resort destination, the Emerald Coast Blue Marlin Classic at Sandestin® (ECBC) has set the precedent for worldclass sport fishing tournaments. For the angling teams, there are the deep blue waters of the Gulf of Mexico, red-hot billfish action and cool green cash. For more information, including how to register for the tournament, visit FishECBC.com. PROMOTION

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PHOTOS BY MOON CREEK STUDIOS COURTESY OF DIGITAL GRAFFITI AT ALYS BEACH AND EMERALD COAST BLUE MARLIN CLASSIC AT SANDESTIN®

Regina Jaquess, PharmD 10 time World Water Ski Champion

PROMOTION

SOCIAL STUDIES 30A Songwriters Festival JAN. 17–20 More than 5,000 music lovers came together over Martin Luther King Jr. weekend in January to attend the 30A Songwriters Festival. This unique event, coproduced by the Cultural Arts Alliance of Walton County and Russell Carter Artist Management, is a four-day music extravaganza featuring over 225 songwriters and musicians performing original songs in various genres, ranging from country to Americana and folk as well as blues and soul. It all took place in over 30 dedicated listening rooms along South Walton’s scenic Highway 30A and beyond.

PHOTOS BY WILD PHOTOGRAPHY AND RHONDA MURRAY

1 Adam and Lara Thorton with Adam and Mariko McCall (All traveled from Tennessee for the event) 2 Frank and Susan McKenzie 3 Marie Summerlin and artist Alex Guthrie

La Lumière: Madly Giving FEB. 9 Hannah Martin’s sixth annual birthday fundraiser, “La Lumière: Madly Giving,” was held at The WaterColor LakeHouse at Watercolor Inn & Resort, and it benefitted Special Olympics Florida — Walton County and Westonwood Ranch. Guests were tantalized by an afternoon “down the rabbit hole” that included an exotic yet entertaining Alice in Wonderland dining and interactive experience. The unique event was unlike anything else this area offers and brought together locals and visitors alike for an unforgettable evening that benefitted two great local organizations.

PHOTOS BY RHONDA MURRAY

1 Jessica and Levin Bracken 2 Marisol and Tony Gullo 3 William and Pam Burden 4 Rita Montgomery, Wells Buzzett, Annie Lockamy, Hannah Martin, Daron Walters, Meg Castleberry and Aaron Perk

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APR/MAY 2020

CELTIC WOMAN CELEBRATION APRIL 19



Grammy nominated, multiplatinum international music group the Celtic Woman is celebrating their 15th anniversary with a collection of their favorite songs that have made them the most successful all-female group in Irish history.

APRIL 24-26

Jam in the sand of Panama City Beach to popular alternative rock music. The impressive three-day lineup includes Shinedown, 311, Weezer, The Struts, Manchester Orchestra and more. SandJamFest.com

‘RAIN: A TRIBUTE TO THE BEATLES’

MULLET MAN TRIATHLON

APRIL 5

APRIL 18

In celebration of the anniversary of Abbey Road, Rain will bring the greatest hits of this epic recording to life, in addition to all your early Beatles favorites.

The 24th annual Mullet Man Triatholon presented by the Flora-Bama is a delight for viewers and participants alike. The course begins off the shore of the FloraBama with a ¼ mile swim, transitioning to a 16.5 mile bike ride and ending with a 3.9 mile run. A portion of all proceeds benefit the Leukemia Lymphoma Society.

PensacolaSaenger.com

EASTER EXPLOSION APRIL 11 The Village of Baytowne Wharf invites families to celebrate Easter with egg hunts, lawn games, face painting and of course, the Easter Bunny. BaytowneWharf.com

SCHOONER’S CAJUN FESTIVAL APRIL 17-19

The Seabreeze Jazz Festival combines top national smooth-jazz artists with a full weekend of fun, sun, good times and great tunes. The event attracts thousands of fans to the Aaron Bessant Park in Panama City Beach for the ultimate performancepacked weekend of jazz. SeabreezeJazzFestival.com

CONCERTS IN THE VILLAGE

MattieKellyArtsCenter.org

DESTIN CHARITY WINE AUCTION FOUNDATION WEEKEND APRIL 24-26

Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation presents singer/songwriter Jeffrey Steele on stage at the MKAF Cultural Arts Village in Destin at 7 p.m.

Destin Charity Wine Auction is currently ranked No. 4 of Top 10 Charity Wine Auctions in the U.S. by Wine Spectator Magazine. Friday is the patron dinner and Saturday is the reserve wine tasting and live auction at 1 p.m.

MKAF.org

DCWAF.org

BLACK JACKET SYMPHONY – PINK FLOYD’S ‘THE WALL’

THE MUSIC OF TRIUMPH

APRIL 23

STARS OF TOMORROW – AN EVENING AT THE OPERA

The Black Jacket Symphony offers a unique concert experience through recreating classic albums in a live performance setting. For this performance they will recreate Pink Floyd’s iconic The Wall.

The Northwest Florida Symphony Orchestra will join the winner of the 33rd annual Concerto Competition to perform opera choruses from some of the most popular and beloved operas.

Schooners.com

MattieKellyArtsCenter.org

Wine, charity and fun will

SOUTH WALTON BEACHES FOOD & WINE FESTIVAL APRIL 23–26

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

April-May 2020 EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

‘DANCE FACETS’ Dance Facets is an annual dance concert hosted by the Northwest Florida State College Department of Dance. The production showcases many styles of dance from ballet to jazz. This year’s concert will also feature guest performances by Cie Grain de Sable, a French dance company.

Cajun music, Cajun food and Cajun fun! It’s the annual Cajun Festival at Schooners. Join in for a Cajun Beach Party Saturday and Sunday with daytime bands on the beach.

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SEABREEZE JAZZ FESTIVAL

PensacolaSaenger.com

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO

SoWalWine.com

APRIL 24

FloraBama.com/mullet-triathlon

APRIL 18

up with a sprint to the finish line. Cool off at Maritime Park, where an after party will honor winners and supply music, grub and libations.

PensacolaSaenger.com

APRIL 22-26

SANDJAM

converge at the 2020 South Walton Beaches Wine & Food Festival. With more than 800 wines to taste over four days, this annual charity event at the Town Center of Grand Boulevard delivers a wine experience unparalleled among Northwest Florida wine festivals.

APRIL 25 The 94th season comes to a close with the heroic music of triumph composed by Libby Larsen who will join the Pensacola Symphony Orchestra from the stage to discuss her own work. PensacolaSaenger.com

PENSACOLA TRIATHOLON APRIL 26 Test your endurance on both land and sea at Pensacola’s premiere triathlon. Triathletes will take a plunge in the Pensacola Bay, pedal through the city and wrap it

TriPensacola.com

THUNDER BEACH MOTORCYCLE RALLY Rev your engines for the 22nd annual spring rally. Motorcycle enthusiasts can enjoy vendors, rides, exclusive bikes, demonstrations, contests, live music, food and beverages. ThunderBeachProductions.com

CONCERTS IN THE VILLAGE APRIL 30 Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation presents the M-80s Band in the MKAF Cultural Arts Village in Destin at 7 p.m. MKAF.org

BURNING UP THE BEACHES APRIL 30–MAY 2 Gear heads unite for a weekend of classic cars galore at Destin Commons and select locations throughout Destin. Enjoy the car show, vendors, parties, live entertainment, food, contests, prizes and plenty of cars to covet. BurningUpTheBeaches.com

FIRST FRIDAY SIP AND STROLL MAY 1 Sip, stroll, shop, dine and listen to some great music in downtown Thomasville. Participating shops and restaurants will be open late, and you can grab a glass of wine from Farmer’s Daughter Vineyards. ThomasvilleGa.com

MKAF VINTAJ WINE DINNER MAY 1 Vintij Wine Boutique in Grand Boulevard at Sandestin

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

PHOTOS BY EDDE BURGESS PHOTOGRAPHY (IRONMAN 70.3) AND COURTESY OF VISIT PANAMA CITY BEACH

calendar

presents a special wine dinner to benefit Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation.

a parade, contests, vendors and a variety of obstacle courses at Frank Brown Park.

JURASSIC PARK IN CONCERT

MKAF.org

JeepBeachJam.com

MAY 16

CONCERTS IN THE VILLAGE

Featuring visually stunning imagery and groundbreaking special effects, Sinfonia Gulf Coast presents this actionpacked adventure that pits man against prehistoric predators in the ultimate battle of survival.

MAY 14

MAY 7 Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation presents an al fresco concert under the stars in the MKAF Cultural Arts Village in Destin at 7 p.m. MKAF.org

‘THE SPONGEBOB MUSICAL’ MAY 8 A legendary roster of Grammy Award winners fuse with the beloved childhood cartoon character, SpongeBob, to bring to life Nickelodeon’s vision of humor and heart. MattieKellyArtsCenter.org

↑ IRONMAN 70.3 MAY 9 IRONMAN Florida is a favorite for triathletes and spectators alike. Begin in Panama City Beach by taking a one-loop swim in the Gulf of Mexico. Next, bike along the beach on a one-loop course and end with a three-loop run through the streets of PCB and St. Andrew’s State Park. Ironman.com

JEEP BEACH JAM MAY 13-16 Jam in your jeep for four days of jeep related fun including

Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation presents Shania Twin who will perform a Shania Tawin tribute on stage at the MKAF Cultural Arts Village in Destin at 7 p.m. MKAF.org

LOVE ALL TENNIS TOURNAMENT MAY 16 Get your rackets ready for a day of tennis at the Rosemary Beach Racquet Club. There are 24 team spots available for playing time, a cocktail hour and prizes. Proceeds will benefit the Food For Thought Summer Meal Program. FFTFL.org

winning novel, The Color Purple is a joyous American classic that follows a young woman’s journey to love and triumph in the American South. PensacolaSaenger.com

CONCERTS IN THE VILLAGE MAY 28

CONCERTS IN THE VILLAGE

Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation presents the Forrest Williams Band in the MKAF Cultural Arts Village in Destin at 7 p.m.

MAY 21

MKAF.org

SinfoniaGulfCoast.org

Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation presents On The Border who will perform a tribute to the Eagles on stage at the MKAF Cultural Arts Village in Destin at 7 p.m.

‘MICHAEL JACKSON: A THRILLING TRIBUTE’ MAY 29

MAY 23-24

This fast paced and exiting 70-minute tribute show features highly skilled dancers and all of your favorites from the legend himself, Michael Jackson.

Based off of the Pulitzer prize

PensacolaSaenger.com

MKAF.org

‘THE COLOR PURPLE’

GulfPower.com/Together

At Gulf Power we are working together with the communities we serve to make Northwest Florida an even better place to raise a family and do business.

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Capt.on Dave’s the

SERVING LOCAL FLORIDA SEAFOOD AND STEAKS Dinner 4pm UNTIL … For more information visit captdavesonthegulf.com

Gulf

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

d CoaSt ral e m Ser rS ving the e yea 0 5 for over

Casual Gulf Front Dining. The locals’ favorite since 1968! 3796 Scenic Hwy 98, Destin | 850.837.2627 | captdavesonthegulf.com

IT’S YOUR

BUSINESS Tell Your Story Your Way

Rowland Publishing specializes in high-quality magazine and book production. We offer full-service turnkey solutions and custom-built programs tailored specifically to your publishing needs. Our services include design, illustration, photography, writing, editing, and print and distribution management. Contact us when you’re ready to discuss your next project. BOOKS • CATALOGS • ANNUAL REPORTS • MAGAZINES

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1932 Miccosukee Road | Tallahassee, FL 32308 (850) 878-0554 | RowlandPublishing.com

dining guide AMERICAN

JOHN WEHNER’S VILLAGE DOOR BAYFRONT RESTAURANT & NIGHTCLUB ★

THE BEACH HOUSE

Dinner and dancing, serving barbecue and seafood. Open daily 5–9 pm. The Village of Baytowne Wharf, 136 Fisherman’s Cove, Miramar Beach. (850) 502-4590. $$ D

Casual, beach-front dining. Open daily 11 am–10 pm. 4009 S. Sandestin Blvd., Miramar Beach. (850) 267-4800. $$ L D

LOUISIANA LAGNIAPPE ★

BUFFALO’S REEF ★

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

DHARMA BLUE

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

EMERIL’S COASTAL ITALIAN ★

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

LULU’S ★

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. 4607 Legendary Marina Drive, Destin. (850) 710-5858. $$ L D

EVERKRISP ★

Farm-to-table salads, rice bowls and other health-focused American bites in modern, brick-lined digs. Open daily 10:30 am– 9 pm. 4463 Commons Dr. W. #10a, Destin. (850) 460-8881 and 625 Grand Boulevard, Miramar Beach. (850) 842-4504. $$ 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.

Seafood, po’ boys, burgers and salads. Open Sun–Thu. 11 am–8 pm, Fri 11 am– 10 pm, Sat 8 am–10 pm. Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort, 9300 Emerald Coast Pkwy. W., Miramar Beach. (850) 267-7778. $ B L D

MARINA CAFÉ

Gourmet pizzas, Creole and American cuisine. Open daily 5–10 pm. 404 E. Hwy. 98, Destin. (850) 837-7960. $$$ D

NICK’S BOATHOUSE

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

GEORGE’S AT ALYS BEACH

PERFECT PIG GRILL AND FISH HOUSE ★

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

GREAT SOUTHERN CAFE ★

$$$ D

JACO’S BAYFRONT BAR & GRILLE

SHADES BAR & GRILL ★

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

THE KEY ★ Best of the

Emerald Coast 2019 Winner

Breakfast Lunch Dinner

Residents and visitors can enjoy the food of 30A restaurants at their convenience. 3OA restaurants please reach out for information on partnering with us!

Chill, we deliver !

RESTAURANT PARADIS ★

Download our app at Apple and Android stores

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.

A 30A mainstay for over 20 years, Shades features 17 high-def TVs plus a menu of salsas, steaks, sandwiches and fish tacos. Open daily 11–1 am. 10952 E. County Hwy 30A, (850) 231-9410. $$ 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. B L D

DELIVERY & CARRYOUT from your favorites

Perfect Pig features, among other offerings, fresh local grouper for dinner, award-winning pulled pork for lunch and hand sliced applewood smoked bacon for breakfast. Hours vary. Multiple locations. $$ B L D

This all-day cafe puts a new spin on classic with a mix of international cuisines, Southern cooking and local food and produce. Open daily for breakfast: 8–10:45 am, lunch: 11 am–4 pm and dinner: 4–9:30 pm 83 Central Square, Santa Rosa Beach. (850) 231-7327. $$ B L D Waterfront restaurant serving burgers, salads, seafood and brunch daily. Open

Lunch M–F 11–2 · Dinner M–Sat 5–9 · 850.650.5980 12273 US Hwy 98, Miramar Beach · fatclemenzas.com

MARINA BAR AND GRILL ★

FIREFLY ★

Fresh Gulf seafood, steak, sushi and signature cocktails. Open daily at 5 pm. 535 Richard Jackson Blvd., Panama City Beach. (850) 249-3359. $$$ D

The original, award-winning wood-fired pizza and classical Italian cuisine

MAGNOLIA GRILL

(850) 302-0266. $$ L D

Located at Grand Boulevard in Sandestin, the famed chef’s first restaurant in Northwest Florida combines Italian cuisine with the variety of fresh Gulf seafood and local ingredients. Sun–Thur 11:30 am–10 pm, Fri–Sat 11:30 am–10:30 pm. 435 Grand Blvd., Miramar Beach. (850) 608-7040. $$$ L D

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 County Restaurant 2014 - Best Pizza, Best Walton County Restaurant & Best Chef 2015 - Best Pizza 2016 - Best Pizza 2017 - Best Pizza & Best Chef 2018 - Best Pizza 2019- Best Restaurant in Walton County

Outdoor Dining Live Music

$ Inexpensive

OPEN FOR BUSINESS SUMMER 2020

JOIN OUR TEAM OF DRIVERS! Flexible Hours | Great Opportunity

$$ Moderately

Expensive

$$$ Expensive

(850) 260-3139 | 30AGRUB2GO.COM EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

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SUNSET BAY CAFÉ ★

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

VIN’TIJ WINE BOUTIQUE & BISTRO ★

Seafood, salad, chef specials. Open daily 11 am–midnight. 10859 W. Emerald Coast Pkwy., #103, Miramar Beach. (850) 650-9820. $$ L D

ASIAN JASMINE THAI ★

Combining traditional and modern Thai cuisine, Jasmine’s dishes offer a variety of spiciness. Open daily 11 am–3 pm and 5–9 pm, open late Fri–Sun. 4463 Common Drive W, Suite 108, Destin. (850) 460-7780. $$ L D

NANBU ★

Combining Japanese cuisine with a Southern flair, Nanbu serves poke and ramen with a selection of fine sake. Tue–Sat 11 am–11 pm, Sun 5–9:30 pm. 26 Logan Lane Unit C, Grayton Beach. $$ 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

P.F. CHANG’S ★

Asian-influenced “farm to wok” chain offers

made-from-scratch dishes such as dim sum, sushi and Chinese food favorites. Mon, 11 am–9 pm; Tue–Thur, Sun 11 am– 10 pm; Fri–Sat 11 am–11 pm, 640 Grand Blvd., Sandestin. (850) 269-1806. $$ 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

BBQ

ANOTHER BROKEN EGG CAFÉ

Breakfast all day, plus sandwiches, patty melts, specials, soups, salads and desserts. Open daily 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

BLACK BEAR BREAD CO.

Contemporary cafe for craft coffee, housebaked breads, pastries and sandwiches and all-day breakfast. 26 Logan Lane, Grayton Beach, (850) 213-4528. $ B L

DONUT HOLE BAKERY CAFE

98 BAR-B-QUE ★

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

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

BACK BEACH BARBECUE ★

MAMA CLEMENZA’S EUROPEAN BREAKFAST ★

Opened in June 2017 by the duo behind Restaurant Paradis, Back Beach Barbecue offers 12-hour slow cooked meats, simple homemade sides and four sauces made in-house. Open daily 11 am–10 pm. 19714 Panama City Beach Pkwy., Panama City Beach. (850) 249-0822. $$ L D

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

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

DESSERT BEN & JERRY’S ★

SMALLCAKES OF DESTIN ★

Featuring gourmet cupcakes and custom cakes, Smallcakes is also available for wedding cakes. Open daily 11 am–7 pm. 36150 Emerald Coast Pkwy., Destin. (850) 460-7487. $$

GREEK 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

ALA BABA GRILL CAFÉ

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

More than just clever names, come for your favorite frozen treat, featuring ice cream, sundaes, smoothies and shakes. Open daily 11 am–10 pm. 9375 Emerald Coast Pkwy., Miramar Beach. (850) 460-8884. $

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

THANK YOU FOR VOTING US BEST HIBACHI 2018

HIBACHI

ASIAN & HIBACHI

HIBACHI

18 Hibachi tables | Sushi bar Private dining | Large parties welcome Open daily for lunch and dinner

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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

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

ITALIAN/PIZZA AMICI 30A

Offering authentic Italian cuisine with a flair for celebration. Open daily 11 am– 11 pm. 12805 U.S. Hwy. 98 E., Suite R101, Inlet Beach. (850) 909-0555. $$$ L D

ANGELINA’S PIZZA & PASTA

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

CLEMENZA’S UPTOWN

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 ★

SEAFOOD THE BAY SOUTH WALTON ★

This family-friendly waterfront restaurant overlooking Choctawhatchee Bay features Gulf Coast cuisine, sushi, a 12-draft beer system, plus wine and crafted cocktails. Open daily 11 am–9:30 pm. 24215 Hwy. 331, Santa Rosa Beach, (850) 622-2291. $$ 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

Italian dishes. Open Mon–Fri 11 am–10 pm, Sat–Sun 5–10 pm. 979 Hwy. 98, #5, Destin. (850) 460-7353. $$ L D

11:30 pm–2 am. 2236 E. Hwy. 30A, Seaside. (850) 231-5900. $$$ L D

PIZZA BY THE SEA ★

Featuring fresh Gulf favorites including seared scallops, Gulf shrimp and the catch of the day — all served blackened, grilled or fried — Camille’s also offers dishes such as thin-crust pizza, panéed chicken and sushi. Beach Bar & Cafe 7 am–5 pm, restaurant 5–10 pm, daily. 2931 Scenic Hwy. 98, Destin. (850) 337-8860. $$ B L D

With an emphasis on fresh ingredients and a family-friendly environment, Pizza by the Sea offers handmade pizzas and other Italian favorites. Open daily 11 am–8 pm. Multiple locations. (850) 650-0015. $$ 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

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

CAMILLE’S ★

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 11 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

Mimmo invites you to enjoy and experience traditional authentic Italian cuisine from his hometown of Sicily.

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

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

Italian

979 US HWY 98 E | Destin

850.460.7353

(in the 98 Palms Shopping Plaza)

EatMimmos.com

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Restaurant Spotlight

Capt. Dave's On The Gulf OWNER JANE MARLERVAYDA grew up in the

restaurant business and has flourished as the captain of her own eatery. She provides a comfortable, casual atmosphere with food that makes people eager to return. “I measure my success by all the customers who have dined with us since we opened, and now their

children, grandchildren and even great-grandchildren dine with us regularly,” said Marler-Vayda. She wanted to set Capt. Dave’s apart by moving beyond the usual fried and broiled options and offering something unique. Grouper Parmesan came to life as an instant hit and remains a top seller to this day.

The menu reflects a classic Florida style with Gulf catches, savory sauces and a full-service bar. Diners enjoy the waterfront scenery from the floor-to-ceiling windows. With four experienced chefs, reputable service, scenic backdrops and tastes of the Gulf, it is apparent why Capt. Dave’s is a beloved staple of the Emerald Coast.

CAPT. DAVE'S ON THE GULF 3796 SCENIC U.S. HIGHWAY 98, DESTIN | 850.837.2627 | CAPTDAVESONTHEGULF.COM

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PHOTOS BY CHASE YAKABOSKI

provides the freshest local seafood, breathtaking views and an inviting atmosphere — the keys to its success since opening in 1968. Since then, Capt. Dave’s has been exceeding the expectations of customers, be they longtime locals or first-time tourists.

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 and 36120 Emerald Coast Pkwy., Destin. (850) 360-2909. $$ L D

LOCAL CATCH BAR AND GRILL ★

Located on 30A, Local Catch mingles coastal cuisine with a Southern twist, such as Carribbean shrimp tacos, po’boys and shrimp and grits. Open daily 11 am–10 pm. 3711 W. County Hwy. 30A, Santa Rosa Beach. (850) 622-2022. $$ 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

SHUNK GULLEY OYSTER BAR ★

This seafood and casual fare restaurant features classic coastal cuisine and genuine Southern hospitality plus live music daily inside the panoramic bar. Open daily 11 am–9 pm. 1875 S. Hwy. 393, Santa Rosa Beach. (850) 622-2733. $$ L D

STEAK & SEAFOOD 790 ON THE GULF RESTAURANT ★

Serving fresh Cajun food, shrimp, salads, seafood and homemade comfort food, 790 is also available for catering, special events and Sunday brunch. Open daily 11 am–9:45 pm. 2996 Scenic Hwy 98, Destin. (850) 650-4853. $$ L D

BEACH WALK CAFE ★

Located at the Henderson Park Inn, this award-winning fine dining establishment features a range of favorites including grouper Vince, pepper-crusted yellowfin tuna, and seafood pasta Rockefeller. Open daily 5:30–9 pm. 2700 Scenic Hwy. 98, Destin. (850) 650-7100. $$$ D

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

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

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

FLEMING’S PRIME STEAKHOUSE AND WINE BAR ★

Featuring the perfect ambiance for any visit, Fleming’s menu is filled with some of the finest cuts of steak, pork, sea bass and more, and the wine manager has curated a wide selection of locally selected wines, hand-crafted cocktails and spirits. Mon–Thu 5–10 pm, Fri 11:30 am–11 pm, Sat 5 pm–11 pm, Sun 5–9 pm. 600 Grand Boulevard, Sandestin. (850) 269-0830. $$$ L 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 MARKET 30A ★

This upscale grocery market features fresh Gulf seafood, prime meats, fine wines and craft beers, gourmet cheeses, deli and prepared foods. Open daily 9 am–7 pm. 13063 Hwy. 98 E., Unit M, Inlet Beach. (850) 502-4100.

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

Two New Faces at the Breakfast Table Welcome Chef Giovanni Filippone & Billy Dee

SARAH K GOURMET ★

This gourmet take-out specializes in chef-crafted, ready-to-heat cuisine, including their famous jumbo-lump crab cakes. Open daily Mon.–Sat. 11 am–6 pm. 34940 Hwy. 98, Suite 183, Destin. (850) 269-0044. $ L D

Visit our comprehensive, searchable dining guide online at EmeraldCoastMagazine.com/Restaurants.

Best Brunch 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2017, 2018. 2019 Best Restaurant in Walton County 2017 Best Breakfast 2018

Mama Clemenza’s | 12273 Emerald Coast Pkwy, Miramar Beach (850) 424-3157 | MamaClemenzas.com EMERALDCOASTMAGA ZINE.COM

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postscript

THE ART OF MAKING WINE by GEORGE COWIE

inemaking in Northwest Florida is not that different from winemaking in other parts of the world. When you think about it, winemaking is a profession as old as civilization itself. From Ancient Egypt, Europe and Asia, winemaking was, and still is, the art and science of preserving fruit and crafting a beverage that Louis Pasteur called, “The most healthful and most hygienic of beverages.” All wines begin as a product of the sun and soil that bring forth the grapes from which the wine is crafted. Grapes are a horticultural crop. The vines must be matched with the proper growing environment and cultural techniques to yield a sustainable crop of grapes year after year. Most of the vines producing grapes for Chautauqua Vineyards are 40-plus years old. They are muscadine grapes, native to the Southeastern U.S. Soil borne diseases and a climate that features some impressive heat and humidity limit the varieties that can be successfully grown in Northwest Florida. As with all grapes, the quality in the vineyard can not be improved at the winery. It can be shaped and formed into the desired wine but not improved. It is for this reason that the proximity of the vineyards to the winery is crucial for any serious winemaking. The 50 acres of vineyards suppling Chautauqua are located a short 12-mile drive from the winery. Harvest season begins in late August. Grape samples are evaluated for sugar, acid, pH, and of course, flavor. The grapes are harvested in the cool morning hours starting at daylight and ending around 10 a.m. The white grapes, Carlos Muscadine, ripen first. We will spend 8 to 10 days picking Carlos grapes, which are brought to the winery for processing as soon as they are picked. We have large, temperature controlled, stainless steel tanks for fermenting and storage and a large press that was custom-built by Sharfenberger in Germany. Our pressing is quick, efficient and

focused on retaining the flavor muscadine grapes are famous for. The red grapes, Noble Muscadine, ripen in mid-to-late September. They are sampled and later harvested in the same manner, but things change when the grapes get to the winery. Some of the red grapes are pressed like the white grapes to yield a pale red wine, (blanc de noir, white from a red). Most of the red grapes are fermented in the traditional method for red wine — on the skins with select yeast. This method allows the flavor and color of the red grapes to be extracted by the action of the yeast and by the pressing later. Wines are fermented, blended and allowed to become stable before bottling. Bottling can begin as early as the spring following harvest. Because the fruity character of muscadine grapes is what dominates the profile of flavor and aroma, these wines are best served young, within a couple of years of bottling. At Chautauqua we also make dessert wines from muscadines as well as other fruit wines. Chautauqua Vineyards crushed its first vintage in August 1989, and was open to the public for wine sales 30 years ago in July 1990. I was once introduced as a luncheon meeting speaker by a close friend who said, “This man has the best job in Walton County.” I did not think much of it before, but I think he’s right. I feel blessed to have a job doing what I love, in a part of the world I love. EC

George Cowie is the winemaker for Chautauqua Vineyards and Winery in DeFuniak Springs, Florida.

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illustration by LINDSEY MASTERSON

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 Electrophysiology IAN L. WEISBERG, MD, Cardiac Electrophysiology

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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, Cardiac Electrophysiology and Cardiac PET Scanning. With 4 interventional cardiologists, 2 cardiac electrophysiologists, 1 invasive cardiologist and 4 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 36468 Emerald Coast Parkway Suite 1101 Destin, FL 32541 (850) 424-5638

NICEVILLE 552 Twin Cities Boulevard Suite A Niceville, FL 32578 (850) 279-4426

FORT WALTON BEACH 1032 Mar Walt Drive Suite 110 Fort Walton Beach, FL 32547 (850) 862-1753

OkaloosaHeart.com

CRESTVIEW 129 Redstone Ave. Suite A Crestview, FL 32539 (850) 682-7212

2017

Grayton Beach 284 Garfield Street John Martin john@johnmartin30a.com Cell: (850) 714-3731 Office: (850) 267-0013

Offered at $6,200,000 This completely reconstructed Gulf-front luxury home sleeps 20 people comfortably. Offering panoramic views of the Gulf from every level, this property is fully equipped with top of the line coastal finishes, shiplap walls, light tan/gray wood floors and furnished by the exclusive Summer House Lifestyle design studio. There are four master suites each with their own private bathroom and waterfront balcony. The private heated pool along with the gas grill and cooking area makes this home the perfect place for any large family or couple that loves to entertain friends.

Seagrove Beach 143 San Roy Road Dale Stackable dale@dalestackable.com Cell: (850) 699-1885 Office: (850) 267-0013

Offered at $8,599,000 This stunning Gulf-front masterpiece with eight bedrooms and nine baths is set to be completed by the end of March 2020. Waste no time to secure your dream home just in time for Spring/Summer. With six bedrooms in the main home and two bedrooms in the guest Carriage House, there is room for everyone in your family to enjoy this spacious fully-furnished home. Designed by Stackable Mracek Design Group, with interiors and fixtures by Tracery Interiors, nothing has been overlooked in this custom home and every detail has been meticulously selected.

Royce Mitchell roycewmitchell@gmail.com Cell: (850) 737-0567 Office: (850) 267-0013

Now with SIX locations serving the Emerald Coast MIRAMAR BEACH 9375 Emerald Coast Parkway, Unit 18 | (850) 267-0050 SANTA ROSA BEACH 7684 W. County Highway 30A | (850) 267-0013 NICEVILLE 1073 E. John Sims Parkway Suite | (850) 729-0176 PENSACOLA 8775 Foxtail Loop | (850) 944-3700 PENSACOLA 17 W. Cedar St. | (850) 434-2244 GULF BREEZE 836 Gulf Breeze Parkway | (850) 932-6278

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