Emerald Coast Magazine, April/May 2014 by Rowland Publishing, Inc.

Over 75 Outstanding Healthcare Providers ...In Over 20 Different Specialties. CARDIOLOGY & CARDIOPULMONARY

Fleischer, Leslie, M.D., FACP, FACC, FSCAI 863-8294 Fort Walton Beach

IMMEDIATE CARE

Richardson, Connie, M.D. 897-4400 Niceville

Eppley, Kurt, M.D. 863-8219 Fort Walton Beach/Destin Navarre/Niceville

Weiner, Hilton, M 863-8100 Fort Walton Beach

INTERNAL MED

Schuka, Edward, M.D. 863-6600 Fort Walton Beach

Francone, Frank, M.D. 863-8219 Fort Walton Beach/Destin Navarre/Niceville

Brown, Vergil, III, 863-8209 Fort Walton Beach

Tuel, Timothy, M.D. 863-6600 Fort Walton Beach

Mills, John, M.D. 863-8219 Fort Walton Beach/Destin Navarre/Niceville

Ebert, Robert, M. 863-8267 Fort Walton Beach

Boole, Jason, M.D., FAAOA 863-8275 Fort Walton Beach

Wartenberg, David, M.D. 396-0108 Navarre

Shen, Joy, M.D. 863-8219 Fort Walton Beach/Destin Navarre/Niceville

Fischer, Melissa, 863-8265 Fort Walton Beach

Shaffer, Susan, ARNP 863-8275 Fort Walton Beach

Yang, Andrew, M.D. 897-4400 Niceville

Van, Chinh Vien, M.D. 863-8219 Fort Walton Beach/Destin Navarre/Niceville

Harned, Reed, M 863-8115 Fort Walton Beach

Bisson, Jennifer, PA-C 396-0108 Navarre

Dawkins, Max, PA-C 863-8219 Fort Walton Beach/Destin Navarre/Niceville

Pybass, Phillip, M 863-8287 Fort Walton Beach

Cave, Christopher, M.D. 396-0108 Navarre

Blubaugh, Stephanie, PA-C 863-6600 Fort Walton Beach

Hutto, Michael, ARNP 863-8219 Fort Walton Beach/Destin Navarre/Niceville

Vigo, Gilbert, M.D 863-8202 Fort Walton Beach

George-Saintilus, Erica, M.D. 863-6600 Fort Walton Beach

Hewitt, Deborah, ARNP 897-4400 Niceville

Johnson, Timothy, PA-C 863-8219 Fort Walton Beach/Destin Navarre/Niceville

Allen, Christy, M 863-8209/863-811 Fort Walton Beac

Silva, Kate, PA-C 863-8219 Fort Walton Beach/Destin Navarre/Niceville

Cruz, Jerry, PA-C 863-8202 Fort Walton Beach

Penas, Cheri, ARNP 863-8294 Fort Walton Beach DERMATOLOGY

Friedman, Norman, M.D. 863-8281 Fort Walton Beach EAR, NOSE & THROAT/ HEAD & NECK SURGERY

AUDIOLOGY

Skinner, Timothy, AuD 863-8275 Fort Walton Beach FAMILY MEDICINE

GASTROENTEROLOGY

Gwinnup, Ann, M.D. 897-4400 Niceville

Abrasley, Christopher, M.D. 863-8260 Fort Walton Beach

IN-PATIENT CARE

Hansen, Christopher, M.D. 863-6600 Fort Walton Beach

Riggenbach, C. Mark, M.D. 863-8260 Fort Walton Beach

Smith, Bryan, M.D. 863-8100 Fort Walton Beach

NEUROLOG

GYNECOLOGY & PRIMARY CARE FOR WOMEN

Harris, Michael, M.D. 863-6600 Fort Walton Beach

Delsid, Melissa, ARNP 863-8222 Fort Walton Beach

Curry, Kathy, AR 863-8202 Fort Walton Beach

Wang, Yuan, M.D., Ph.D 863-8100 Fort Walton Beach

Aubert, Fred, Jr., 863-8169 Fort Walton Beach

M.D.

PEDIATRICS

Ouellette, Bruce, M.D. 863-8273 Fort Walton Beach

Berger, Paul, M.D. 396-0108 Navarre

Vadlamani-Simmers, Lalitha, M.D. 729-4641 Niceville

Piacente, Gregory, M.D. 863-8253 Fort Walton Beach

Buchholz, Susanna, M.D., FAAP 269-6400 Destin

Tartarilla, Paul, ARNP 863-8203 Fort Walton Beach

White, Judy, M.D. 863-8280 Fort Walton Beach

King, Lawrence, M.D., FAAP 863-8203 Fort Walton Beach

Chaney, J. Chris, M.D., FCCP 243-0118 Fort Walton Beach

Dunlap, Janice, ARNP 863-8273 Fort Walton Beach

Krist, Keith, M.D. 863-8203 Fort Walton Beach

Schaphorst, Kane, M.D. 243-0118 Fort Walton Beach

Loder, Andrea, M.D., FAAP 863-8203 Fort Walton Beach

Crow, Anne, ARNP 243-0118 Fort Walton Beach

PULMONOLOGY

DICINE

, M.D., Ph.D.

.D., FACP

, M.D.

M.D.

NEUROSURGERY

Levine, Joseph, M.D., Ph.D 863-8291 Fort Walton Beach

RADIOLOGY

Turner, Keith, PA-C 863-8291 Fort Walton Beach

Meeks, Evan, M.D., FAAP 729-4641 Niceville

Clinkscales, Norman, M.D. 863-8110 Fort Walton Beach

Reno, Richard, M.D. 269-6400 Destin

Jones, Vincent, M.D. 863-8110 Fort Walton Beach

Stoneking, David, D.O., FACOG 863-8264 Fort Walton Beach

Zhang, Grace, M.D. 863-8234 Fort Walton Beach

Rigby, Douglas, M.D. 863-8203 Fort Walton Beach

Burkland, David, M.D. 863-8221 Fort Walton Beach

ORTHOPAEDICS

Schiebel, Alison, D.O. 863-8203 Fort Walton Beach

Dali, John C., M.D. 863-8269 Fort Walton Beach

Graham, Gregg, ARNP 863-8235 Fort Walton Beach

Shelton, Robert, M.D. 863-8203 Fort Walton Beach

Rogers, Robert, M.D. 863-8221 Fort Walton Beach

PAIN MANAGEMENT

Patel, Chris, M.D. 863-8182 Fort Walton Beach

Simmers, Kyle, M.D., FAAP 729-4641 Niceville

VanBrocklin, Andrew, D.O. 863-8182 Fort Walton Beach

Sprenkle, Lyn, M.D., FAAP 269-6400 Destin

, M.D.

F a

SURGERY

OPHTHALMOLOGY

Capra, Samuel, M.D. 863-8235 Fort Walton Beach

RNP

OBSTETRICS & GYNECOLOGY

MPA-C 15 ch

L t p i

White-Wilson is the largest multi-specialty physician group on Florida’s Emerald Coast and has been serving this community for over 60 years. • OVER 75 OUTSTANDING HEALTHCARE PROVIDERS …IN MORE THAN 20 DIFFERENT SPECIALTIES • COMPREHENSIVE CARE USING ONE ELECTRONIC MEDICAL RECORD

Voted Best Medical Practice!

More than 20 Different Specialties: Audiology & Hearing Aids Cardiology & Cardiopulmonary Dermatology ENT/Head & Neck Surgery Family Medicine Gastroenterology Gynecology Immediate Care

Destin

(850) 269-6400

Pediatrics Physical Therapy Pulmonology Radiology Sports Medicine Sleep Medicine Surgery

In-Patient Care Internal Medicine Neurology Neurosurgery Obstetrics Ophthalmology Orthopaedics Pain Management

Fort Walton Beach (850) 863-8100

Navarre

(850) 396-0108

LAB & IMAGING SERVICES

www.white-wilson.com

Niceville

(850) 897-4400

White-Wilson Immediate Care We are here when you need us

When you need to see a doctor right away, there is one place to go. White-Wilson Medical Center has

been the community’s choice for healthcare for over 60 years. We are home to more than 75 of the nation’s top providers, integrated by one electronic medical record and collaborating to provide the most comprehensive healthcare available. It’s the convenience of having over 20 different specialties, lab and imaging all together. With expanded hours and Immediate Care locations in Fort Walton Beach, Destin, Navarre and Niceville, we are here when you need us.

Immediate Care in Four Locations! Destin

Fort Walton Beach

M-F, 8 am - 5 pm

M-F, 7 am - 7 pm Saturday, 8 am - 4 pm

(850) 863-8219

(850) 269-6400

Navarre -

Niceville

(850) 369-0424

(850) 897-4400

M-F, 7 am - 7 pm Saturday, 8 am - 4 pm

SAME-DAY APPOINTMENTS AND WALK-INS WELCOME!

www.white-wilson.com EmeraldCoastMagazine.com April–May 2014

Lawyers from the Community, for the Community.

6 Aprilâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;May 2014

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com

Anchors | Smith | Grimsley Proudly serving the community for over 50 years Anchors Smith Grimsley is comprised of eleven lawyers with deep, life-long ties to the Northwest Florida community. Our law f irm provides a full range of legal services throughout the Florida Panhandle. By combining over two centuries of collective legal experience that crosses a broad range of practice areas with an unparalleled insight into the legal, social and political environment of Northwest Florida, the lawyers at ASG are able to service the many and varied needs of our clients. The lawyers and staff of ASG invite you to E XPER IENCE O UR E XPER IENCE .

• Real Property Transactions, Litigation, • • • • •

Development and Foreclosures General Civil Law and Trials Banking Law Commercial and Business Transactions and Litigation Family Law, Divorce and Child Custody Estate Planning

• • • • • • •

Probate and Guardianship Criminal Law, Trials and DUI Construction and Lien Law Collection and Creditor’s Rights Personal Injury and Wrongful Death Bankruptcy Landlord / Tenant

C. LeDon Anchors

Richard P. Petermann*

Dewey Parker Destin

James W. Grimsley

Timothy W. Shaw

* Also Admitted in Alabama

Steven B. Bauman

Shiraz A. Hosein

W. Scott Foster*

Jeffrey L. Burns*

Walter J. Smith

C. Jeffrey McInnis

N. Gresham Foster

1929–2001

Anchors | Smith | Grimsley, plc | 909 Mar Walt Drive, Suite 1014, Fort Walton Beach 850.863.4064 | asglegal.com EmeraldCoastMagazine.com April–May 2014

FRESH SEAFOOD?

One of the first questions people ask when they visit our area is “How can we be sure we’re getting fresh seafood?” That’s an excellent question. There is a good chance that the seafood you will be offered traveled farther than you did. In the state of Florida, even though we are surrounded by water, more than 90% of the seafood sold this year will be imported from other countries. Throughout the United States, the huge majority of seafood is imported. Most of it is mislabeled. Frozen seafood is sold as “fresh” and imported seafood is sold as “local.” According to Oceana, 93% of ﬁsh sold as red snapper is actually some other species. 57% of tuna sold at sushi bars throughout the country is not tuna. Most of the tilapia served in this country comes from Viet Nam and Thailand and much of it is farmed in waters with sewage run-off and the source of feed is pig feces.

Harbor Docks has been selling fish through its wholesale market since 1981. We sell to markets across the United States and Canada. We also sell to select restaurants along the Gulf Coast. Harbor Docks contracts with over 100 commercial boats to insure that we have an adequate supply of fresh fish. We invite you to dine at our restaurants – Harbor Docks, in the heart of Destin, and Camille’s, overlooking the Gulf in Crystal Beach. But we’d also encourage you to try any of the wonderful, independent, local restaurants in our area that are committed to serving Florida seafood. We know who they are, because we sell them their fish.

Check our website to find out which restaurants sell certified Gulf-to-Table fish from Harbor Docks Seafood Market. DES TIN , FL | 850. 837. 2506 | H A R B O R D O C K S .CO M S E A F O O D & C O C K TA I L S

8 April–May 2014

Snapper and Tuna stats: http://oceana.org/en/news-media/publications/reports/oceana-study-reveals-seafood-fraud-nationwide Imported seafood stat: http://www.ﬁshwatch.gov/farmed_seafood/outside_the_us.htm Tilapia/pig feces: http://www.bloomberg.com/news/2012-10-11/asian-seafood-raised-on-pig-feces-approved-for-u-s-consumers.html

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com

The Emerald Coast Magazine April + May 2014

contents The most commonly heard call of a red fox is a three- to fivesyllable barking “wow wow wow” sound, which is often made by two foxes approaching one another.

F E AT U RE d stories

46 Emerald Coast Wildlife Refuge to the Rescue

New haven in Crestview for 100 wild animals gives locals a unique opportunity to observe and learn. By Karina Orr

Photo by Scott Holstein

58 Bluewater Bay

Meet Raimund Herden, the optimistic visionary behind the Emerald Coast’s largest residential resort development. By Zandra Wolfgram

64 We Make the Rounds on Health Care

Through Northwest Florida, hospitals are upgrading facilities, staffing up and adding more specialized care as competition heats up. By Zandra Wolfgram and Linda Kleindienst

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com April–May 2014

contents in the e.c. 21 Snapshot This quaint garden center is a blessing to Santa Rosa Beach. 22 Made on the EC Meet two inventive chairmen of the beach boards. 26 What’s Haute Get your “green” on this spring with these earth-friendly finds. 29 Personality Blue sky’s the limit with these fearless father-son fighter pilots. 33 Giving Back Winning a DCWAF auction item leads a local couple on a charitable journey to South Africa. 36 Editor’s Choice A DeFuniak Springs restaurant gets a “Reality TV” check. 39 Test Drive Compute this advice: Back It Up! 43 Scene Have you heard the latest about the Emerald Coast?

happenings 45 Spotlight Go native at Musical Echoes in Fort Walton Beach. 52 Calendar Spring into action and head to these festive events. 55 Social Studies Look who’s out and about on the EC scene.

the good life 79 Eudaimonia It’s “plein” to see these artists make the EC beautiful.

84 Gardening All you need to grow amazing azaleas. 86 Flavor EC’s food truck frenzy is on a roll. 90 Habitat Prepare to be bamboo-zled!

94 Dining Let us guide you to savor the flavors of the Emerald Coast. 98 On the Menu A little Louisiana lagniappe.

A WORD WITH YOU 14 16 19 100

From the Publisher Editor’s Note Feedback The Last Word

Special Sections

42 Gift Guide 71 Medical Profiles 80 Deal Estate

98 10 April–May 2014

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com

Like us at facebook.com/emeraldcoast

Photos By Scott Holstein (98, 26) and Courtesy the Armentors (33)

93 A Taste For … Cancer fighting fruits and veggies!

reating events of your dreams ~

overlooking the beach or anywhere!

For events at Bud & Alleyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s call 850.217.4535 For events anywhere else call 850.231.2461 V isit us online at budandalleys.com

One legendary tradition, two waterfront locations: Seaside, FL and now on Grand Lagoon in Panama City Beach EmeraldCoastMagazine.com Aprilâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;May 2014

Vol. 15, No. 2 Aprilâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;MAy 2014 The Emerald Coast Magazine

President/Publisher

EDITORIAL

Brian E. Rowland

Director of Editorial Services Linda Kleindienst Editor Zandra Wolfgram Staff Writer Jason Dehart Editorial Coordinator Chay D. Baxley Contributing Writers Chay D. Baxley, Danielle Buenrostro, Diane Dorney, Rosanne Dunkelberger, Jennifer Howard, Lis King, Linda Kleindienst, Andi Mahoney, Karina Orr, Audrey Post, Liesel Schmidt, Zandra Wolfgram Editorial Interns Mikaela McShane, Katie Mueller, Megan Williams Prepress Specialist Melinda Lanigan

CREATIVE

Located at the Village 105 Cannery Lane A5, Miramar Beach 850.460.7606

Creative Director Lawrence Davidson Production Manager/Network Administrator Daniel Vitter Assistant Creative Director Saige Roberts Senior Graphic Designer Jennifer Ekrut Graphic Designers Lizzie Moore, Shruti Shah Advertising Designers Jillian Fry, Monica Perez Staff Photographer Scott Holstein Contributing Photographers Howard Robinson, Kathrin Saphia, Donald Watson, Jaqueline Ward, Zandra Wolfgram, Allison Yii

SALES AND MARKETING

Marketing and Sales Manager McKenzie Burleigh Director of New Business Daniel Parisi Traffic Coordinator Lisa Sostre Sales Executives Rhonda Lynn Murray, Darla Harrison, Tracy Mulligan, Chris St. John, Paula Sconiers, Drew Gregg Westling Marketing and Sales assistant Derika Crowley

OPERATIONS

Administrative Services Manager Melissa Tease Special Projects And Events Coordinators Lynda Belcher, Kerri Bryan Accounting Specialists Josh Faulds, Tabby Hamilton Receptionist Tristin Kroening

WEB

Social Media/Systems Management Specialist Carlin Trammel Social Media and web management intern Chelsea Moore Emerald Coast Magazine instagram.com/emeraldcoastmag emeraldcoastmagazine.com pinterest.com/emeraldcoastmag facebook.com/emeraldcoast youtube.com/user/emeraldcoastmag twitter.com/emeraldcoastmag Rowland Publishing rowlandpublishing.com

SUBSCRIPTIONS

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

Editorial Office 1932 Miccosukee Road, Tallahassee, FL, 32308 Customer Service & Submissions EC Magazine and Rowland Publishing, Inc. are not responsible for unsolicited manuscripts, photography or artwork. Editorial contributions are welcomed and encouraged but will not be returned. EC Magazine reserves the right to publish any letters to the editor. Copyright April 2014 Emerald Coast Magazine Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is prohibited.

12 Aprilâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;May 2014

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EmeraldCoastMagazine.com Aprilâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;May 2014

from the publisher The Wrong Number

Driving home a couple of weeks ago, I got a call from a South Florida number that I didn’t recognize. So, I answered in my normal manner, saying, “This is Brian.” I immediately became the target of a vicious verbal attack from a woman who threatened me that if I didn’t go to her daughter’s apartment to change the battery in her smoke detector there would be serious repercussions. She continued with a litany of person attacks on my competency. Obviously, she thought she was calling the manager of her daughter’s apartment in a student complex. Instead of hanging up, I took the opportunity to have a little fun and to guide her through some self-discovery. After a minute of her nonstop diatribe, I asked her, “With whom am I speaking?” She replied that she was Mrs. Robert blah-blah-blah and her husband is a senior partner with the law firm of blah-blah-blah. I then asked from where she was calling. Her response … Singer Island. Okay, at this point, based on her disclosures, I know she is rich and married to a high-powered South Florida attorney. So, I told her that this is the first I have been made aware of her daughter’s problem with a beeping smoke alarm that is apparently causing her much distress. Her response? “So now you know and can get your ass over there to fix it now! Or, you will be hearing from my husband, and you will probably be looking for a job when he’s done.” The insults continued. And now, there’s a blatant threat. So, I asked two questions as I trembled with fear. Is your daughter the young lady I saw the other day with both her arms in a sling? The answer: No. Is your daughter our tenant who has the severe speech impediment and has problems communicating? The answer: No. “Well, Mrs. Blah-blah-blah, then may I ask why your special princess is unable to walk 100 yards to our office or dial a phone herself and call me directly to ask that her battery be changed? I see she felt it necessary to call her ‘mommy’ to have this life-threatening situation resolved,” I said. There was silence on the phone. After one, two, three, four, five seconds, she replied, “You have no idea who you are speaking with and you had better pack your bags now you (obscenity deleted).” That response gave me the umph to push this a little further as she took the Reese Witherspoon approach of, “Do you know my name?” I said, “Yes, I do know who you are. You are an extremely rude and very inappropriate individual who has raised a daughter incapable of performing even the most simple actions of a functioning human being. Unless she personally walks down to my property office, politely fills out a repair order and hands it to me, I will be forced to let hell freeze over before the battery gets changed.” The woman began screaming into the phone so loudly I couldn’t understand much of what she said. After another minute of nasty language and threats, I added, “Oh, by the way, you dialed the wrong number.” Then I hung up. In a few minutes, the phone rang again. I let it ring. That’s probably the most fun I have had driving home in a long time. But this is a scary situation that some of our youth find themselves in. Imagine the type of parenting this child has received. Imagine how unprepared this kid is for life. Imagine the poor guy she marries. How will she act when she enters the business field or goes into politics or government work? Parents, take note. Teach your kids to stand on their own two feet. Let them fall down once in awhile. They will figure it out. Quit enabling them, because everyone loses when you do.

on the cover

Always the optimist, Raimund Herden says he realized his dream that took root on 2,000 acres of untouched bayfront property in Niceville, because he believed in himself when no one else would. Photography by Scott Holstein

VOL. 15 NO. 2

White-Wilson is the largest multi-specialty Emerald Coast and has been serving this co

THE EMER ALD COAST MAGA ZINE

• OVER 75 OUTSTANDING HEALTH …IN MORE THAN 20 DIFFEREN

BLUEWATER BAY

— Brian Rowland browland@rowlandpublishing.com

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM APRIL-MAY 2014

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com

FOOD TRUCK FRENZY Where to graze for the ‘moveable feast’ craze

2/18/14 9:58 AM

GET ON BOARD! Meet the local guys making creative waves in the beach board business

Voted Best Medical

More than 20 Differen

GET EARTH-Y Recycled, reusable and really cool ecofriendly finds

14EC_AM_PrudentialPenFed.indd 1

14 April–May 2014

THE ISSUE OF HEALTH CARE We check up on industry leaders and find one condition that everyone is experiencing: change!

Photo by Scott Holstein

• COMPREHENSIVE CARE ELECTRONIC MEDICAL

THE BOLD VISIONARY After 39 years, Bluewater Bay developer Raimund Herden puts the finishing touches on the place of his dreams

Audiology & Hearing Aids Cardiology & Cardiopulmonary Dermatology ENT/Head & Neck Surgery Family Medicine Gastroenterology Gynecology Immediate Care

Destin

(850) 269-6400

LAB & IMAGING SERVICES

In-Patient Care Internal Medic Neurology Neurosurgery Obstetrics Ophthalmolog Orthopaedics Pain Managem

Fort Walton Beach (850) 863-8100

www.white-wilson

oyster perpe tual date just

rolex

oyster perpetual and datejust are trademarks.

editor’s note Life may not always be a picnic, but when you spend a perfect day frolicking in the springtime sun, it sure can feel like it. When I was a girl, my third big sister used to take me and my little sister on magical picnics. The ones I remember best were the sunny afternoons we spent running up and down the hills of Mount Trashmore Park in Virginia Beach, Va. (It just goes to show that with a good imagination — and company — even a literal “dump” can go from ordinary to extraordinary.) You see, Mount Trashmore is a 60-foot high, 800-foot long landfill that was transformed into a 165-acre public park. Apparently, it was the first of its kind in the world. All we kids knew was that it was a fun place we were allowed to go without our parents. It opened in 1978. I turned 12 that year. And for the next two summers, thanks to my big sister, it was one of the places where my imagination would run wild. We would transport ourselves back in time by wearing long, flowy “play dresses” and big floppy sunhats to our picnic luncheons. After a session on the swings, though there were several picnic pergolas, we usually planted ourselves on a blanket on the side of the hill for the best reclining position and vantage point to watch the parade of puffy clouds floating above in the biggest blue sky I’ve ever seen. The hillside was optimal just in case the urge to roll down it overcame us, as it often did. We probably looked mighty silly flitting around like gypsy moths, but we were carefree … and happy in our make-believe “world” … even if it was atop a trash heap. If you were teenaged like my three older sisters, Mount Trashmore also was a popular place for budding springtime romances. Every weekend when the weather warmed, it seemed like the entire town turned out with blankets and picnics in tow to laze under the stars while an old movie flickered on a big screen. If you were bold enough to steal a first kiss and brave enough to have one taken from you, this plucky park was the ideal place. I could account for all but one stolen kiss up until this point, so while my sisters wandered from our “home base blanket” to pickpocket the puckers of cute boys, I spent most of my time gazing up at what seemed to be an endless supply of stars. Those picnics must have seemed romantic to me, because for many years my “go to” gift to newlyweds was always a well-stocked picnic basket. The Emerald Coast has no shortage of pretty picnic spots. The Landing Park, Ferry Park and Gulf Islands National Seashore in Fort Walton Beach and Henderson Beach State Park on the Gulf and Calhoun Park on Choctawhatchee Bay in Destin offer convenient parking and easy access off of Highway 98. Topsail Hill, Eden Gardens, Grayton Beach and Pt. Washington are lovely wooded state parks in Walton County. And don’t forget the many amphitheaters in the center of most of the little beach towns that dot the 30A coastline. If you time it right you can add free theater, live music or even an outdoor movie to the menu. The Emerald Coast is pleasant for picnics year-round. But in my book, the perfect time of year to head to the beach, the bay, the harbor or a nearby park to linger over lunch with someone special al fresco is certainly springtime. Here’s to letting your imagination run wild like a gypsy this spring. Why not? No matter where you live, if you pack it just right, life can feel as carefree as a picnic.

—Z andra Wolfgram editor@emeraldcoastmagazine.com

16 April–May 2014

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com

editor’s picks Effect Change with These Causes We are seeing several worthy causes reaching out for support along the EC. Here are a few we hope you consider. April is National Child Abuse Prevention month. Lauren’s Kids, founded in 2007 by Lauren Book, aims to prevent childhood sexual abuse through education and awareness, and to help the 42 million survivors in the U.S. heal with guidance and support. You can help “drive” the message home by purchasing a Lauren’s Kids specialty license plate. The organization has to pre-sell 1,000 vouchers before a plate can be manufactured. Order your presale voucher for $35 at the tax collector’s office, private license plate agencies or online at laurenskids.org. In honor of Memorial Day we salute the efforts of locals working to build the Veterans Tribute Tower Memorial at Beal Memorial Cemetery in Fort Walton Beach. Make a pledge of support by mailing a check to Veterans Tower, PO Box 67, Fort Walton Beach, FL 32549, or online at veteranstower.com. For more details, call Bill Zuppa at (850) 585-3166. The South Walton Artificial Reef Association (SWARA) works to build artificial reefs, which create habitats for marine life. Its goal is to establish coastal sandbar snorkeling reefs. You can support this conservation effort starting with a $35 donation. Mail your donation to SWARA, PO Box, 2483, Santa Rosa Beach, FL, or register online at waltonreefs.org.

Photos by Allison Yii (Wolfgram) and Courtesy of Lauren’s Kids Foundation (Specialty License Plate)

Life is a Picnic … Eat Up!

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

I just finished my morning coffee with the latest issue of EC Magazine. What a wonderful way to start my day! Your February/March issue is right on target for our area. From the stories about 30A businesses to the amazing wedding insert, each page spotlighted the reasons why we call the Emerald Coast home. Great job!

Sandy Sims Gulf Power Company

Many readers were “sweet” on our February/March issue featuring a Raspberry Mousse Tart from Bon Appetit in Fort Walton Beach. Here are a couple of posts shared with us on Facebook. Nice article about a lovely shop! Barb Stults

Love the new issue. I need a confectionary fix stat! Stacey Brady

The Editor’s Note “My ‘National Treasure’ Love Story” received more remarks than any other this year, proving EC readers are all heart. Here are a few of the comments: Really enjoyed your Editor’s Note in the latest issue of EC. Very sweet.

Toni Ouellette-Graham

Thanks for sharing, Zandra. Great story.

Jeffrey Zehnder

Very special article.

Mark Morris

ec online Visit us at EmeraldCoastMagazine.com for the EC extras! » THE REEL EC Go wild with us as we

L O V E YO U R S T Y L E

850.837.5565

L caate Lo t d Ac Acro ross ro ss fro rom m De D st stin in n Commo om mmo mons ns Next Ne xt to Publ Puubl b ix

venture to the Emerald Coast Wildlife Refuge Zoological Park in Crestview.

» TOP SALON 2014 Does your stylist have

sheer genius? Find out which salon on the EC has what it takes to earn the crown at EC Top Salon 2014. Check out the makeover reveals and find out what charity will benefit from one of EC Magazine’s most popular annual events. Join the party on our Facebook and Twitter as the excitement unfolds. #2014ECTopSalon EmeraldCoastMagazine.com April–May 2014

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20 Aprilâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;May 2014

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in the e.c.

Peopl e + St y le + H y pe

Snapshot

Blessed and Blooming

Imagine stepping out of your car to be greeted by a winding brick walkway leading to a gift shop so thoughtfully designed you could lose track of time perusing its shelves. Ahead, charming architecture overflows with a seasonal selection of foliage that would impress even the most avid gardener. Sound like the perfect plan for your day? It’s just a typical afternoon at Clay Gardens Gifts & Blessings in Santa Rosa Beach, owned and operated since Easter of 2012 by founder Anna Lisa Daniel. At Clay, you can take a stroll through the fragrant, enchanted grounds of this cheery cottage-turnedgarden shop for a remarkably delightful outing. You’ll quickly see why so many along 30A give this garden getaway a “green” thumbs up. Located in Seagrove Beach, the charm and tranquility of this quaint, nature lover’s dream boutique is undeniable. Full of local artistry with a back-to-basics vibe, you’ll find everything from blooming annuals to decoratively preserved wreaths and meticulously formed pottery. “Our shop and garden are special,” beamed Daniel. “A lot of our customers find it cathartic.” One of the shop’s specialties is container gardening, or creatively potted plants. By using their clay pottery as a vibrant foundation, Daniel and her team are able to answer the challenge of native gardening through carefully placed color and variety. — Chay D. Baxley

Photo by Scott Holstein

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com April–May 2014

made in the ec Matt Cassidy (pictured with) Jesse David and Dan Cassidy “land surf” on their custom, handmade land paddleboards; Meyer Boarding Company (opposite, bottom) has two color-filled shops on 30A in Gulf Place and Seacrest Beach, where you can buy or rent a Meyerbrand board or even sign up for a lesson.

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Chairmen of the Boards Family Firms Ride Wave of Board Sports By Jennifer Howard

he beaches of the Emerald Coast are known as fabulous vacation spots, romantic wedding venues, even inspiration for a variety of artists. The Florida Panhandle’s picturesque stretches of sand are not renowned as catalysts for manufacturing businesses. Yet concepts for two local manufacturing enterprises were born at the beach, with a wave of creative thinking that yielded some big ideas and big challenges. A little more than five years ago, brothers Matt and Dan Cassidy operated a beach rental and surfing school on family friend Mike Meyer’s beach. Meyer had channeled his passion for surfing into Meyer Skimboards, growing his company from a garage business in 1985 to a full-fledged manufacturing business that sold skim boards around the globe. The Cassidy brothers went to speak with Meyer about leasing some additional space but left with a new entrepreneurial dream. “All we went to talk to him about was storage space, and we came out with a business,” said Dan, now 34, the brother who conceptualizes products. Meyer had fallen ill with terminal cancer and was ready to put his business in new hands. “He literally taught us the business from his Lazy Boy,” he said. The brothers’ backgrounds in construction and surfing, plus a strong streak of hands-on artisanship, made their new Meyer Boarding Company venture a good fit. “We are worker bees who

Photos by Scott Holstein

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com April–May 2014

made in the ec

build every board we offer,” said Dan. From building and marketing skim boards, it wasn’t much of a jump to manufacturing skateboards, A background in construction land paddleboards, custom surf boards and even stand-up paddleand a passion for boards. “We diversified,” said Matt, 38, who oversees manufacturing surfing are perfect and construction. “It was a natural progression.” complements for these artisans, The firm now makes thousands of boards each year and sells who especially them via the Internet to places as distant as the U.S. West Coast, love to collaborate Puerto Rico, Canada and the British Virgin Islands, as well as from with kids to craft one-of-a-kind a small shop in Gulf Place in Santa Rosa Beach. designs; Andy Asian manufacturing powerhouses are no distant threat to the Herrmann (below) demonstrates, the local business. Many of Meyer Boarding’s competitors produce Shore Surfer, a new their products more cheaply in China, then seek to undercut their concept in beach pricing. Meyer Boarding, however, provides quality and customboards, which he invented at age 11. ization that can’t be replicated in Asian factories. The company’s unique manufacturing process utilizes high-grade, high-gloss epoxy resin. Mass produced boards use lacquer, which isn’t as durable and doesn’t look as good. “Everything we do is done here, from basically a garage in Miramar Beach,” said Jesse Davis, 29, who handles Meyer’s marketing and rounds out the roster of employees. “We are a niche for people who appreciate made-in-the-U.S. craftsmanship.” The pervasive financial appeal of Chinese low-cost production also impacted another Emerald Coast business that builds a different type of board, A.H. Shore Surfer. In 2009, 11-year-old Andy Herrmann watched some younger kids struggle to ride their skim boards. He tried a ride on his knees, and his idea for a new kind of sport for youngsters aged 5 to 12 was born. His family bought into his notion of a kneeboard ride, complete with handles, which would be safer and more stable for the elementary school set. His father, Joe, mother, Linda, and older siblings, Joey and Katie, pooled their various skills to create a new company to build and market the Shore Surfer. “It was basically, do you go for it, or sit back and watch someone else run with your idea?” said Joe, now 59, who brought his project management and engineering skills to the fledgling firm. The challenge of finding willing lenders or investors led the family to self-finance their enterprise. Like many others, the lower cost production of Asian manufacturers seemed to the Herrmanns like a good economic opportunity. However, the foreign factories delivered products that were flawed and logistics made timely response difficult. 24 April–May 2014

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“We brought the production back into the U.S.,” said Joe. “We began using expanded foam, but the cure time was a problem. Our growing demand pressured the manufacturer to cut short the cure time.” The family rethought the process and came up with a polyethylene material that facilitated adding integrated handles. The new boards were made more flat, which further improved their performance. “We found a manufacturer with the ability to handle our growth,” said Joe. Shore Surfers are sold in retail shops across the U.S., including locally at The Crab Trap, Fitness Fetish and Henderson Beach State Park. The new, flatter design solved the retail shelf space issue, as the boards now stack easily, reducing the room required for display. The new version is also less costly to ship. In refining their products, the Herrmanns devised a way to better respond to unpredictable fluctuating demand for various color boards. The kneepads on the boards now come in a variety of colors, making it far easier to fill colorspecific orders from retailers. With only a half-inch of water (or snow), the versatile Shore Surfer is three boards in one: a skim board, a body board or a sled. “When the new boards hit, consumers and retailers were thrilled,” Joe said. Shore Surfer is poised to move to the next level, the Herrmann family believes. “We know how to please the customer, we

Photos By Scott Holstein

know we have a good product. Now we are looking for how to grow,” said Joe. They would like to find an investor to facilitate buying materials in bulk to drive down the product cost, as well as fund development and production of accessories like a backpack to carry the board that also holds most of what a family needs for a day at the beach. Meyer Boarding Company sees the land paddleboard as the wave of their future. People use the boards for everything from transportation to cold weather training for water paddleboard competition. “In five years, we’d love to be a powerhouse,” said Matt. “The land paddle market is wide open. We hope that when people think of land paddleboarding, they think of Meyer. One day, we’d like ‘Meyer-boarding’ to be well known like YOLO boarding.” The original Shore Surfer has been Meyer is also making redesigned in an array of bold colors a splash locally with surf and equipped with handles for better performance while skimming, body camps in the summer boarding or sledding. months and birthday parties where attendees can paint their own skate or skim board. The company then delivers the finished board to participants within two to three days. Also in the works are logo items and new designs with a fresh color palette. Both local board manufacturers rely heavily on the Internet for new business. Joey Herrmann, 22, handles the Shore Surfer technology outreach. “Our website is now mobile,” he said. “We also upgraded our shopping cart function and are integrating more social media.” Receiving raw materials and shipping finished products is a larger challenge. “Every material we use must be trucked in,” said Meyer’s Dan Cassidy, noting the Emerald Coast does not have rail service. The firm uses Baltic birch wood to build its boards, involving quite a journey from Eastern Europe to the Florida Panhandle. Shore Surfer has not yet outgrown the Herrmann’s Destin home, which adds the challenge of storing inventory to that of having materials and finished products shipped in to the area. Joe recalled that finding the right manufacturer helped mitigate the storage and shipping issue. “Our manufacturer drop ships, which means we don’t have to store an inventory of product,” he said. While the beach served as inspiration and proving ground for both Meyer Boarding and Shore Thing, the companies now rely on technology to reach customers and innovation to compete with other firms, compensating for their less industrial beach location even while celebrating it with their products. Neither firm has any plans to relocate away from the coast that first inspired them. ec

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EmeraldCoastMagazine.com April–May 2014

what’s haute What on Earth?

In honor of Earth Day (April 22) and Arbor Day (April 25) we encourage you to make a resolution to do something good in the world.

The Gifted Program Art is a family affair for the Moores. When not in his studio making “bright, happy, colorful, Southernfried folk art” out of repurposed and recycled materials, Alan Moore, and daughters Isabella and Emma (the oldest two of five kids) can be seen at area festivals teaching kids how to make works of art from wire, bottle caps and aluminum cans. To find out where they will be making and teaching art next, visit themoorefamilyfolkart.com.

Slick Recycling

Matthew Nicholas, former owner of Veggie Cab, has recently launched Green Machines Recycling LLC, a new curbside recycling service in Walton County using vehicles that run on vegetable oil. For more info on how you can “waste” away in a good way, visit greenmachinesrecycling.com or call (850) 218-9488.

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Gift It Green features fun, picturesque gift packaging designed to be gifted forward — a great method to introduce green living to your family and friends to preserve the environment. This ecochic cotton fabric box is high on style and low on impact — no scissors, tape or waste. Did you know that if every family wrapped three presents in reused materials, it would save enough paper to cover 45,000 football fields? From $14 at giftitgreen.com.

Make Yourself (Re)Useful

We recently discovered Reusies, a reusable, eco-friendly alternative to disposable snack and sandwich bags. They are 100 percent cotton and can be tossed in the wash. According to the Sierra Club, families spend $85 each year on disposable baggies, so save the planet and some bucks and make yourself a little “reuseful” to the world. Available online at reusies.com, at M&M Monogramming and Gifts and My Kids a La Mode in Tallahassee and That’s Too Cute in Panama City.

Photos by Scott Holstein (Guitar art, recycle bin and charging station) and courtesy Michael Fortner Photography (sandwich bag), rolf glass (glacier Glass) and Electric Cart company LLC (electric cart)

A Pop of Art

Just Charge It

Thanks to environmentally-minded Bud and Alley’s restaurant owner Dave Rauschkolb, Seaside has installed a Tesla Supercharger car charging station in the town square. Equipped to accommodate two cars, it is solar powered and completely recyclable. Its convenient location allows the car owners to browse the shops and grab lunch while their car charges — free of charge, so to speak.

Rocking Cocktails

Glacier Glass is a new line of eco-inspired glassware crafted from recycled wine bottles. Utilizing state-ofthe-art diamond-wheel engraving technology, the former wine bottles are completely transformed into a beautiful and substantial piece of glassware with a design which, combined with the blue tint of the glass, is reminiscent of majestic glaciers. Now that’s what we call having your drink “on the rocks.” Comes in tumbler and highball sizes. $59.99 for a set of four. Purchase it at Seaside Associated Stores or online at rolfglass.com.

A Reason for Cart Wheels

Affordable, reliable, quiet and eco-friendly, these convenient electric carts allow you to just plug and play. Tom Waldrop’s Santa Rosa Beach company, Electric Cart Company LLC, is the largest state-licensed dealer of “street legal” electric vehicles in the Southeast. They sell both pre-owned and new models out of their showroom just east of Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort in The Landing shopping center.

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com April–May 2014

Celebration Hall evokes the luxury & romance of a historical venue in the heart of 30A 61 Topsail Village Drive, Santa Rosa Beach | 850.499.2652 | thecelebrationhall@gmail.com | thecelebrationhall.com 28 Aprilâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;May 2014

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com

personality

The Canterbury Tales The Father-Son Legacy of Two Passionate, Ambitious Fighter Pilots By Zandra Wolfgram

Photos by Zandra Wolfgram (F-35) And Courtesy the Canterbury family

ike many spirited teenage boys, Todd Canterbury totaled the family car, a Chevy Blazer. But unlike most kids his age, a few days later he was where he felt he belonged — soaring in the bright blue sky and breathing a lot easier. He was taking his first flying lesson and would solo soon afterward in his dad’s single engine Beechcraft Bonanza. And that would not be the only time his personal life and military career would parallel his father, Major Gen. Henry D. Canterbury. Earning his wings would be just another way this passionate, selfdescribed “servant” would proudly follow in his father’s big and brave footsteps. They both graduated top in their class (his father graduated in 1955, the very first class at the Air Force Academy). They both were hand-selected to fly as a Thunderbird; they both flew in combat, and both served as a wing commander (Todd commands the 33rd Fighter Wing at Eglin Air Force Base, Henry lead the 56th Tactical Fighter Wing). And both Canterbury men launched state-of-theart aircraft. Henry, who goes by Hank, flew the first F-16 into Florida from the factory in Fort Worth into MacDill Air Force Base in 1978, and today his son oversees the operations and training for the F-35, the most capable, and sometimes controversial, aircraft operated out of the

(Above) Col. Todd Academy campus in Colo33rd Fighter Wing at Eglin “Tales” Canterbury rado in 1955, a Thunderbird Air Force Base. shares his passion soared overhead, and that was Like his father, Col. Todd for flying with his father and mentor it — the young cadet born in “Tales” Canterbury, now retired Major Gen. Huntsville, Ala., propelled 43, would take off in more Henry “Hank” Canterbury; They himself onto the path of a ways than one and soar like are pictured here successful and sometimes a bright diamond in the sky in front of the F-35 harrowing career as a highly soon enough. To fully appreciat Eglin Air Force Base; (below) Like trained U.S. Air Force fighter ate the super sonic story, you father, like son the pilot. He logged more than have to understand where it all Canterbury men pictured with two 5,000 hours flying F-100s, Fbegan … and like most worththings they love: 105s, F-4s, F-16s, F-15s and while dreams, it began with a their fast cars and A-10s; served in Korea, Vietlittle optimistic “blue sky” … Thunderbirds. nam and completed 90 com“I wanted to be a fighter bat ready missions out of Thailand; and pilot all of my life,” Major Gen. Henry performed in more than 230 ThunderCanterbury, who is 76, retired and living bird airshows to become a respected and in Arizona, says matter of factly, his blue decorated major general. eyes dancing at the mere mention of his Todd Canterbury was born in 1970 life’s passion, only pastime and favorite in Wiesbaden, Germany, when his dad subject. On his first day on the Air Force

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com April–May 2014

personality was stationed at Spangdahlem Air Base in West Germany. His first childhood memory is the ceremony surrounding his father flying the F4 into Homestead Air Force Base in Florida, where his dad was then stationed. Like his father, once the subject is raised, Todd lights up at the mere mention of flying. “Flying to me is an incredible challenge, and there is a sense of accomplishment after you’ve flown a successful mission,” Todd says. “I love the ability to control things, to make the machine perform the way I want it to. It’s kind of an ultimate sense of freedom and at the same time an ultimate challenge.” Todd, who lives on Eglin Air Force Base, has logged 3,900 hours, including 650 in combat. (“He’s young. He’s still a kid. He’ll catch up,” his dad teases.) Ribbing aside — and there is much of that between them — there is a deep mutual respect that perhaps only comes from a relationship between two men who really understand one another. Hank is beyond proud of his son and is quick to point out what Todd is too modest to. “The F-35 is far and away greater than anything I had the opportunity to fly, even though I was flying top-of-the-line fighters at the time,” Hank said. “It’s almost difficult for the mind to

comprehend the huge advances in technology that have been brought to the warfighter. This airplane encapsulates all those capabilities.” And it should, considering when everything is factored (depending on how many end up being produced) one F-35 is reported to cost anywhere from $50 million to $110 million. Though Hank says fighter pilots “feel invincible,” machines are not. Flying in formation at 500 mph only 150 feet above the ground is no easy feat. Todd was in the prestigious number five position (the man who is always inverted) for two years in a row, which is rare. In all, he flew as a Thunderbird for four years and was on the team in 2003 when one of his fellow pilots ejected and the plane crashed after performing a maneuver called the diamond pass. “I witnessed the crash firsthand,” he said. “Though I wouldn’t wish it on anyone, it was a good experience to be a part of which influenced my leadership style and flying discipline the rest of my career.” Like the F-35, he is focused and results driven. “I only have two years, so I can’t just sit back and rest on my laurels,” he says. “I’ve got to come in with a vision of where I want to take the 33rd Fighter Wing and execute that, because my time in command is precious.”

Though both agree a good leader requires having “high standards and low tolerance” for those who don’t pass muster, Hank defers to his son on this point. “He’s a perfectionist and so am I, but he’s more tolerant than I am. He starts out with a more mature attitude than I did … and he handles matters with the fluid flexibility and preciseness of executive skill.” Both pilots agree that operating any aircraft successfully is due to one thing: team training. “To train everyone so the pilot can get into that airplane and do that mission it’s capable of takes a huge investment of time and experience,” Todd says. Todd says he developed his assertiveness and independence while moving around the country in his military family, but he didn’t realize how much he valued certain qualities until he lived on campus as an undergraduate at Arizona State University (ASU). After a few theft incidents, he was convinced the military was where he belonged. “The incredible integrity, trust and confidence in folks — those doing the mission around you, sometimes for very low pay, and serving our nation, that’s what I grew up with,” he says. After earning a degree from Arizona State

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Photo Courtesy the Canterbury family

University in aeronautical engineering technology, he looked into Air Force ROTC and found what he was missing. “It was the caliber of person who wants to serve this nation — they seem to be cut from a different cloth, and that’s who I wanted to associate with,” he says. Once he made the decision to enter the military, there was no stopping his dream. “I knew I wanted to be the best fighter pilot in the Air Force.” And if his distinguished career and current standing is any testament, just like his dad, this mission was accomplished. Many things change, some stay the same. In the case of those with flying in their blood, like the Canterbury men, they just want to be airborne. Hank spends his retirement as a certified flight instructor with Bonanza Pilot Training — a small company that provides weekend-long immersion training sessions to experienced pilots around the country. Any free time Todd has is spent testing out his new Bonanza emblazoned with the Thunderbird insignia: an upside down five. “We don’t golf, we spend our weekends working on and flying airplanes,” Hank says. “I don’t intend to stop until I can’t get up on the wing,” he says sharing a knowing glance with his son, who simply nods and smiles. ec

‘‘

He’s a perfectionist and so am I, but he’s more tolerant than I am. He starts out with a more mature attitude than I did … and he handles matters with the fluid flexibility and preciseness of executive skill.” — Henry Canterbury

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giving back

Here Here! Photos Courtesy the Armentors

Auction Item Leads Local Couple on a Charitable Journey By Danielle Buenrostro

hen the Armentors went on an African safari vacation in October, they didn’t expect it to turn into a humanitarian aid trip to help an impoverished village. But for the Armentors, charity is just a way of life no matter where they are in the world. The trip was an auction lot item that went for $36,000 at the Eighth Annual DCWAF (Destin Charity Wine Auction Foundation)’s weekend of festivities in August that attracted more than 450 wine enthusiasts, foodies and celebrity vintners to enjoy patron dinners and a live auction. Funds raised benefit the foundation’s 14 children’s charities serving more than 50,000 youth in Northwest Florida. According to DCWAF President John Russell, last year’s event raised more than $1.375 million and a total of $6 million since the foundation’s inception in 2005.

Dana Armentor (top, center) with the children from a small village outside of the Islands of Siankaba on the Zambezi River in South Africa. Glenn and Dana Armentor (pictured above) provide dental supplies to Malindi Lubinda (center), the school teacher in the village of Siankaba, who will add proper and daily teeth brushing to the day's lessons.

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com April–May 2014

giving back

The Armentors purchased 60 pair of sturdy, leather shoes for local Siankaba children. For many of them, it was their first pair of shoes.

Serial philanthropists and DCWAF board members Dana, 46, and Glenn Armentor, 63, work tirelessly and donate generously for underprivileged children in Lafayette, La., where they work full time at their law firm, and at their second home in Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort’s Burnt Pines community, where they vacation with their two children.

GIF T CARD

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Winning the seven-night stay at the Islands of Siankaba in Zambia along with another couple gave the Armentors a chance to get away from their busy schedules to view endangered wildlife, explore the Victoria Falls and savor South Africa’s wine country. While at the lodge enjoying gourmet meals and spa treatments, Dana decided to venture off the beaten path and visit the remote village nearby. What she saw touched her heart. Villagers live in immaculate, small mud huts and wash their clothes daily with the water they carry in jugs on their heads from the Zambezi River, where alligators lurk and kill villagers regularly, Dana said. “I’ve never seen poverty like this, but I’ve also never seen pride like this,” she said. Children walk several miles every day with no shoes and blistered feet excited to attend school, which is a concrete slab with a tin roof, where they learn English. What is meager by Western standards is cherished by the villagers who crave education and a better way of life, Dana added. Eager to help others help themselves, the Armentors fell in love with the people of Siankaba and spent the rest of their trip immersed in the village, buying the 60 school children shoes, toothbrushes and toothpaste. Dental care is now part of the curriculum, and they are committed indefinitely to help the teachers with the resources they need to grow. “If one person reaches out and provides one opportunity, it’s amazing how many lives you can change,” Dana said. The lodge also invests in the village by providing children with uniforms, sponsoring education and income for the teachers and

Photos by Scott Holstein (Dana Armentor) and Courtesy the Armentors

training villagers to work at the lodge so risking their life fishing is no longer the only occupation. When Russell saw pictures of Dana and Glenn with the villagers, he was awestruck by their charity. “I am used to being around generous people, but for the Armentors to go to Africa and carry that ‘how can we help’ attitude is really, to me, humbling and inspiring,” he said. Thanks to this village, traveling for the Armentors will never be the same. “This changed everything for me; it changed the reason why I will be traveling,” Dana said. “It opened a whole new door for me.” Attendees to the DCWAF’s 9th annual signature weekend event slated for April 25–27 will have the opportunity to bid on this auction lot at a live event on Saturday at 3 p.m. at Grand Boulevard and continue in the Armentors’ charitable footsteps. ec For details on the event see our Calendar listing in the Happenings section.

‘‘

Dana Armentor

If one person reaches out and provides one opportunity, it’s amazing how many lives you can change.” — Dana Armentor

Economical. Convenient. Painless. EmeraldCoastMagazine.com April–May 2014

editor’s choice

Mission Accomplished ‘Mom and Dad’ Get Lifesaving Advice from a Reality TV Show by Liesel Schmidt

hile Defuniak Springs may not be on the cuttingedge of the culinary world, it’s definitely become buzz-worthy over the past year. And while the only Michelin anything in this sleepy little town might be the tires coasting along its roads, celebrity chef-dom has left a lasting impression here. It all started with a phone call. When Carolyn Cuneo answered the telephone last February, she had no idea that her life –– and her restaurant, Mom and Dad’s Italian Restaurant –– was about to change. Admittedly, Mom and Dad’s was finding itself in increasingly dire straights, as debt was mounting with alarming speed and business was slowing. But the voice on the other end of the phone was offering Cuneo a lifeline. All she had to do was accept it.

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Unbeknownst to Cuneo, her daughter, Lisa Pitts, had contacted the producers at “Restaurant Impossible.” They took notice, finding Cuneo’s plight to be a worthy cause. “My husband [George] passed away in 2007, and it was very difficult for me to manage both financially and mentally,” she recalls. In the midst of a nationwide economic crisis, Mom and Dad’s financial downward spiral continued, and the ruin of the restaurant seemed inevitable. The network’s offer of assistance came as quite a shock, and Cuneo’s initial response was flat-out refusal –– a first for the famed television show. It wasn’t until she found out just who had made the plea to the Food Network that Cuneo relented, admitting that she was in over her head. It was her daughter’s urging that made all the difference. When the show’s crew rolled into town in late February 2013, they did it with the precision of a military operation. It was, after all, a mission. A rescue mission, helmed by celebrity chef Robert Irvine. The culinary master, known for his Scottish lilt, unmistakable crew cut and formidable presence –– both in physique and in manner –– marched Carolyn Cuneo through the doors at Mom and Dad’s deter(left) and her mined to bring the Italian eatery back from daughter, Lisa Pitts, at the the brink. “Robert is a very imposing figeatery their ure,” Cuneo observes. “He’s very expressive family has owned and operated in and very energetic and very in your face. DeFuniak Springs But you get the feeling that he really, really for 26 years aptly wants to help you succeed.” named: Mom & Dad’s Italian From the first moment, it was, by all Restaurant. accounts, a whirlwind operation. That momentous Tuesday in February, Restaurant: Impossible’s production crew came prepared to conduct interviews with the staff at Mom and Dad’s and get a layout of the land. When Irvine himself came the next day, a plan of attack was beginning to take shape, and the restaurant shuttered its doors and cleared out as old began to give way to new. By Thursday night, the crowd packed into the parking lot at Mom and Dad’s was holding its collective breath, patiently waiting for Cuneo to welcome them into her revitalized restaurant. It was, as Irvine so famously intones on each episode, “Two days and $10,000.” What happened in those hours between the closing of one incarnation of Mom and Dad’s and the opening of the next was nothing short of miraculous. Hard flooring replaced tired carpet; old wood wall paneling was repainted in fresh, airy colors; and a feature wall of reclaimed, repainted window shutters was installed. A barrier wall was constructed between the service area and back dining room to solve noise issues, new lighting bathed the interior, tabletops were replaced, and cluttered antique-store knickknacks made room for a cohesive collection of eye-catching artwork thoughtfully displayed along the walls.

Anyone who watches “Restaurant: Impossible,” however, knows that dining room renovation isn’t the extent of the program’s objective. Merely addressing the decor would only serve as a temporary band-aid to the real issues, and so Irvine had two other components to tackle: an overblown menu and Cuneo’s reluctance to accept change. While regular, loyal patrons might have seemed satisfied by the actual food, there were definite problems with the restaurant’s profitability and the size of its menu, which was both lengthy and priced too low to cover costs. There were other drains to the income, as well. Copious amounts of salad and bread were given as complimentary accompaniments to each order, and the staff was being fed for free. It was, in Cuneo’s opinion, part of what kept people coming back into her restaurant, an innate part of her nurturing desire The restaurant, to see people well fed. But it was also bleedmenu and owner's perspective all ing her bank account. were given a fresh Irvine’s arrival brought with it a well-edmakeover by reality TV show ited list of dishes to kick-start the re-invig"Restaurant: orated restaurant. Improvements were made Impossible." on some of Cuneo’s existing menu items, and Irvine urged her to try scratch baking her breads, as George had. As with most of the proposed changes, Cuneo was, at first, extremely resistant to Irvine’s attempts to alter her menu. And while a majority of the foods being prepared at Mom and Dad’s had always been made from scratch, they were lackluster. One notable exception was her pizza. With that in mind, Irvine encouraged additional pizzas, building on her signature pie.

‘‘

I was over-ordering and undercharging. Robert helped me on those points, and it’s worked.” — Carolyn Cuneo, Mom and Dad’s

Italian Restaurant

Photos by Scott Holstein

Admittedly, some of the modifications have not taken permanent hold. Though the house-baked bread has been outsourced to a local bakery, “We’re still offering one of the pizzas that he made and a few items that he came in with, but we went back to a good portion of my menu,” Cuneo says. Happily, however, one important change remained in place: “It’s not as large –– [we needed] to streamline it.” “It’s gotten a mix of responses,” the restaurant owner says of the menu adaptations and remodeled decor. “Some of my locals were like me –– they didn’t like change. They didn’t want it to be any different than it was. But for the most part, the majority [of our diners] like it.” The show’s airing cast a wide net, bringing in fans from around the country. “So many people are just rabid about that show,” Cuneo observes. “They’ve got a huge following,” she marvels, citing calls she’s received from travelers who seem to plan their itinerary around Restaurant: Impossible’s episodes. Cuneo’s personal transformation was part of the process, as well. Emotionally, she had a lot to overcome. Mom and Dad’s had, since the day she and her late husband took over for the original owners in 1988, been an integral part of their lives. George’s death left her alone –– not only in keeping her business afloat in a tanking economy, but in the emotional struggle of watching their long-held dream come to an end. She suffered in silence, feeling an acute sense of shame. “I think it would have embarrassed George to admit that we needed help, just like it was hard for me. But I think if we hadn’t done it, in a couple of months, we would have had to close,” she confesses. “That would have devastated me, and it would have devastated him.” Fortunately, the show left her with a fresh perspective, and now Cuneo has implemented Irvine’s greatest advice regarding the restaurant’s actual operation. “I was over-ordering and undercharging. Robert helped me on those points, and it’s worked.” Her advice for other restaurateurs? “You really have to watch your bottom line and charge enough,” she says. Fearing that an increase would overwhelm diners in such a small town, Cuneo’s prices had always remained unrealistically low; and over time, it ate her profits. “You’ve got to do a cost analysis,” Cuneo realizes. “That’s your profit, and you’ve got to make a profit to stay in business.” Certainly food for thought. ec

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com April–May 2014

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test drive

Better Back It Up Prevent the Headache of Lost Data at Home and Work By Jason Dehart

n the beginning, personal computers were big, bulky and built like cars. The user — a technically minded chap — could open one up with relative ease to perform simple maintenance or replace a component. But technology changes, and gone are the days when you could easily open up the hood and swap out motherboards. Computers have evolved into highly complex, multimedia tools that can fit in the palm of our hand. They store our photos, videos, music files and important documents. We can send email and text messages to anyone, anywhere. Wireless connectivity brings us the Internet like never before — the good, bad and the malicious. Unfortunately, when something goes wrong — and hundreds of things can go wrong with modern computer systems — all that advanced technology tends to backfire. Users who aren’t as technically savvy or proficient with the

engineering as the geniuses that designed and programmed the machine are at a distinct disadvantage when the thing stops working. So, what do you do when the dreaded “blue screen of death” pops up or some virus takes over your system? What do you do if you can’t access all those precious family photos and documents? For starters, any computer user either at home or work, should make themselves familiar with the day-to-day working of their computer to discern possible issues, said James R. Nichols, owner of Your Quality Computer Service of Pensacola “Signs of pausing, hesitating and freezing can indicate hardware issues,” Nichols said. “Changes in the home page of your web browser and unfamiliar icons on your desktop or task bar can often be signs of a malware infection.” If you need to repair the hardware or recover lost data, the best thing to do is seek professional help.

“The rule of thumb is much like a vehicle. If it’s not running correctly and the problem is not going away, consult a professional,” Nichols said. “I have met many a new customer that has permanently lost data (and computers) because they did not take the time to have their computers checked when symptoms of hardware failure began.” If you’re concerned that there is a problem, it is time to call a trusted technology professional. “Your first instinct will usually be the best one,” said Jeff Danick of JWD Tech Inc. of Niceville. “If a customer isn’t even comfortable with some of the basics, I’d never advise that they tackle tasks such as hardware repairs or data retrieval without a professional.” Danick said that for home computers and business computers, it’s way better to never need a fix. “Practice safe computing. Don’t open unexpected attachments, even from people you think you know. Avoid ‘free’ software when it’s not from a trusted company. They have to make money somehow,” he said. “Keep your data backed up. Try to have at least one backup on-site and one off-site, perhaps

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com April–May 2014

test drive with one of the trusted ‘cloud’ services such as Carbonite or Mozy.” An Ounce of Prevention Nichols said he thinks every user — especially business users — should be trained and familiar with basic trouble-shooting, such as clearing the browser cache and power cycling (turning off and on) the equipment. “However, the general rule would be to do the basic maintenance, clearing cache and temp files, defragmenting the hard drive and manually scanning with the installed antivirus software,” he said. CCleaner is a free program that makes clearing caches and temp files a breeze with nearly no concern for side effects, Nichols said. It can simply be installed and run without the need to configure. He also recommends Avast!, a free and excellent anti-virus/security suite. Also, checking and repairing disk permissions should be done just as often as on a Windows PC. “Running a disk check is an often overlooked bit of maintenance that can save many a headache. Mac users should still run an antivirus on their computer despite the common myth of being virus-proof,” he said. Backing up data is especially important

for business owners, but remember the fundamentals as well. Use quality uninterruptible power supplies with voltage regulation and surge protectors. Restrict how your business systems are used, Danick said, because you don’t want someone checking their Facebook account on a system used as a point of sale. Frequently go back and review best practices with your users regarding passwords, email and downloading items off the Internet. Make use of the built-in security and privacy tools and settings available on Mac OS X or Windows. Make sure to keep your software updated for security updates. “And did I mention backing up your data? I’ve been preaching the gospel of backup for 10 years,” he said. “Back when I was in school, up north, part of the job was maintaining three backup servers, so that lesson was one thing that stuck with me.” That practice alone could be worth its weight in gold, especially in a state infamous for summer heat, thunderstorms and lightning strikes. Danick recounted a time he talked to a data recovery company, and the rep said they get more hard drives from the state of Florida than any other place. “This seems to be due to the usual causes of drive failure: too much heat and electrical

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issues like lightning, surges and brownouts,” he said. “We seem to have more of that here in Florida. Here in our area it’s a tie between hardware failures (power supplies, hard drives) and systems being compromised by malware. Again, prevention is a far better approach.” The alternative to not safeguarding hardware and making backups is not easy to swallow. Depending on what the customer wants recovered, recovery can generally cost in the hundreds to thousands of dollars. “The price of not backing up is expensive. Our lives are on our computers,” Danick said. “We have photos, tax documents, IRS forms, you name it, and it’s not easily recreateable or replaceable. You might say, ‘Just give me my photos,’ and that might cost $800 to $1,100. Then, there is ‘I need everything,’ and that’s thousands. So backup is relatively cheap compared to that.” Even if you decide it’s worth the money, there’s still no guarantee of success. That’s why he suggests that home users and business owners should subscribe to online backup “cloud” services. External hard drives are another option and run about $100, he said. Businesses have other options for protecting their data systems. This could include having a full-time IT professional on

photo by Scott Holstein

The price of not backing up is expensive. Our lives are on our computers. We have photos, tax documents, IRS forms, you name it, and it’s not easily recreateable or replaceable.” — Jeff Danick, JWD Tech Inc., Niceville staff or paying an outside company to keep tabs on things remotely. What service they opt for depends on the business, its size and any contractual requirements the business is involved with. A business may want to start out making use of a local professional, and keep track of hourly or daily costs and decide at some point in the future whether a service contract or hiring a full-time professional to work in-house is the right path to take, Danick said. Many businesses may require a local consultant or full-time employee, as well as a service contract with a software or hardware vendor. “There is no ‘one-size-fits-all’ solution,” he said. Fix It Yourself? Modern computer engineering design makes it much more difficult (in some cases) for the

home computer user to dabble in computer repair at home. And anytime you deal with something electrical there’s always the chance that something can go wrong, and you can wind up hurting your components, yourself or both. That’s why Danick strongly suggests caution for the would-be repairman. First of all, a little knowledge can go a long way. Knowing how a computer works, and knowing how yours is supposed to work, is the best thing, he said. “If you don’t have a foundation of how it’s supposed to work when it doesn’t have a problem, it’s hard to diagnosis and troubleshoot and get to the nuts and bolts of repairs and data retrieval,” he said. “You really need to know how things are supposed to work. You don’t rebuild an engine without knowing the characteristics of how that engine is supposed to function.”

If you don’t have that knowledge, you can always join a local computer club, search the Internet or take a computer class at the local college. Northwest Florida State College in Niceville offers a computer class (as well as other enrichment studies) through its Prime Time program, and the Center for Lifelong Learning in Fort Walton Beach hosts a Computer Club to promote computer literacy. Depending on the computer you’re working on you might find service manuals online, or specialist websites like Ifixit.com have a lot of demos and instructions on certain devices and sell some of the tools that are required. The right way of going about your own repair demands getting the right tools. “You definitely need to focus on having the right tools for the right job, and that may involve spending a lot of money just to do one job on a computer,” Danick said. “An anti-static mat costs around $70–$100, and the tool kit might cost between $50–$70 and that’s just getting you to the point where you have the tools you need. You may also need lint-free gloves, suction cups and tools for removing glass. It depends on the device you’re working on. Always take antistatic precautions and have the right tools ahead of time.” ec

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Gift Guide Fresh ideas, styles and personalized services can all be found on the Emerald Coast, just in time to celebrate mothers, fathers and graduates on their special days.

1. chaise lounge Bay Breeze Patio features the largest selection of in-stock outdoor furniture in the region and carries top brands including Lloyd Flanders, Lane Venture, Brown Jordan, Tropitone, Tommy Bahama and more. Bay Breeze Patio, 32 Forest Shore Drive, Destin, 850.269.4666, baybreezepatio.com

2. BluCalypso Turquoise pendant and

beaded necklace with 24K gold by JustCharmed. bluCalypso is a ladies boutique featuring a variety of jewelry, handbags and home accessories. $108 and $150. bluCalypso, 105 Cannery Lane

A5 (located in The Village of Baytowne Wharf), Miramar Beach, 850.460.7606

3. Marsha Doll Beauty, The Model Collection This dual-pump self tanner

combines moisturizing and self tanning in one step. Perfect for daily use, it builds a beautiful, natural-looking tan over time. Enjoy the fabulous tropical fragrance, without the harsh chemical smell of most self tanners. 7oz, $32.99. Marsha Doll Beauty, marshadollbeauty.com, 850.656.2600

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Enjoy savings of 25% to 65% at an impressive collection of 110 designer and name brand outlets including Ann Taylor, Banana Republic, Calvin Klein, Coach, Gap Outlet, J.Crew, Nike, Saks Fifth Avenue Off 5th and more. For complete information and to join the VIP Shopper Club, visit premiumoutlets.com. Silver Sands Premium

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5. Therapeutic massage & healthy skin facials The benefits of regular

massage therapy extend far beyond relaxation and stress relief. According to the American Massage Therapy Association, research shows that it provides several important health benefits. Massage Envy, 34904 Emerald Coast Parkway, Suite 132, Destin, 850.650.8500

6. wells vision & laser eye center

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Sunglasses. Our optical and sunglass shop offers the season’s latest styles from top designers such as Oliver Peoples, Tiffany & Co., Gucci, Dior, Tom Ford, Oakley, Maui Jim and more. Wells Vision & Laser Eye Center, 4012 Commons Drive, Suite 110, Destin, 850.424.6677. 10343 Hwy 30A, Seacrest

scene Here is just some of what we’ve seen and heard along the EC … New News …

Photos by Scott Holstein (Henderson Park Inn) and courtesy of Sara Noel Childers courtesy of Proffitt PR (Harbor Docks)

▪ The Okaloosa Arts Alliance (OAA) announces its new board of directors for 2013–2014. The executive board of directors includes: president, Keri Woods with Pyramid Inc.; vice president, Ken Hair with Children in Crisis; treasurer, Susan Kneller, chair of the OAA grants committee; and secretary, Becky Belcher with the Emerald Coast Concert Association. The Board of Directors: Nellie Bogar with the Youth Village, Demetrius Fuller with Sinfonia Gulf Coast, Ursel Behnken with the German Club, Delores Merrill with the Mattie Kelly Arts Center, Chris Manson with the Beachcomber, Jean Starkey with Stage Crafters, Gayle Vann with HarborWalk Village, Isabel Smith — artist, Tony Akers with the Ceramic Studio, Pat Federinko — artist and Bill Johnston with the Emerald Coast Pipes & Drums.

▪ A new $12.5 million dollar capital improvement project was recently completed at Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa. The fivemonth project included a complete refurbishing of all 200 Spa Tower rooms, a redesigned indoor pool and an enhanced main lobby experience giving arriving guests an optimal view of the Gulf. The resort also upgraded designs for the Sandcastles Restaurant and Lounge, Hadashi Sushi Bar and the award-winning, 11,000-square-foot Serenity by the sea Spa.

Jackie Tway (Harbor Docks), Nitsi Bennett (Okaloosa County Habitat for Humanity), Chris Leavenworth (Destin Harvest) and Melissa Forte (Okaloosa County Habitat for Humanity).

Cause for Celebration …

▪ Niceville welcomes two new eateries: The Big Fish Grill has opened at the North Light Marina and Dockside Oyster Bar and Café on Bayshore Drive.

▪ Harbor Docks and its staff, along with the Destin community, more than 200 volunteers and the dedication of Charles Morgan, fed 1,475 people a free Thanksgiving dinner. Proceeds from the day broke the record of the most successful Thanksgiving hosted by Harbor Docks to date, raising $20,565 for the Okaloosa County Habitat for Humanity and Destin Harvest.

Southern Living magazine has named Henderson Park Inn to its prestigious list of resorts, hotels and inns in the publication’s Southern Living Hotel Collection. Henderson Park Inn joins other notable Southern members, including Barnsley Gardens Resort, Adairsville, Ga.; Blackberry Farm, Walland, Tenn.; The Hermitage Hotel, Nashville; and Monmouth Historic Inn, Natchez, Miss.

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com April–May 2014

Provides 24-hour care and supervision for all pet guests

Destin’s First Premium Dog Resort!

scene Kudos and Congratulations … ▪ Michelle Sperzel, executive director of the Shelter House, was recently awarded the Certified Fund Raising Executive (CFRE) credential. Fewer than 300 fundraising professionals in Florida hold this credential, and just 5,400 have achieved this goal worldwide.

Sperzel

▪ Tammy McDaniel, owner of Tammy’s Journeys in Fort Walton Beach, has been elected to the 2013–14 Board of Directors for the American Business Women’s Association. ▪ Susan Kiley, co-owner of Bay Breeze Patio in Miramar Beach, was recently appointed to the 2014 Board of Directors of the International Casual Furnishings Association (ICFA). Kiley

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▪ The National Naval Aviation Museum honored the World War II generation at a Remembrance Event that featured Retired Marine Lt. Gen. Duane Thiessen, who introduced the Museum’s newly restored WWII F6F-3 Hellcat. This combat veteran aircraft went to war with its assignment to the Fighting Squadron (VF) 38 in July 1943. In air-to-air combat, the ultimate test for a fighter squadron, VF-38 was credited with shooting down 22 Japanese airplanes. Recovery and restoration of this aircraft was funded by the Taylor family of Enterprise Rent-ACar. Company founder Jack C. Taylor, a former Navy aviator who attended the event, served aboard the aircraft carrier Enterprise (CV-6) flying F6F Hellcats during World War II. In 1957, he founded what was to become Enterprise Rent-A-Car, naming it for the famous ship. ec

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▪ The American Planning Association (APA) announced the designation of Palafox Street in Pensacola as one of 10 Great Streets for 2013. Each year during National Community Planning Month, APA’s Great Places in America program names 10 exemplary streets to highlight the role planning and planners play in adding value to communities, including fostering economic growth and jobs.

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Capt. Bob Rasmussen, U.S. Navy (Ret.), Capt. Eric Rasmussen U.S. Navy and Jack Rasmussen

photos by Jaqueline Ward Images (Kiley) and courtesy of Shelter House (Sperzel) and Donald Watson, Naval Aviation Museum Foundation (National Naval Aviation Museum)

The Hotel

▪ Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park has attained accreditation from International Marine Animal Training Organization (IMATA), an organization dedicated to advancing the humane care and handling of marine animals by fostering communication between professionals that serve marine animal science through training, public display, research, husbandry, conservation and education.

happenings Eve nts + Culture + Causes

spotlight

Musical Echoes

To really connect to a place, you must understand its history. This three-day family-friendly festival April 25–27 at The Landing in Fort Walton Beach gives locals and visitors alike an amazing hands-on opportunity to understand the distinctive cultural heritage of Northwest Florida. Now in its 14th year, Musical Echoes has earned a reputation as the premier Native American flute festival in the country. The event showcases performances by extraordinary Native American dancers and internationally acclaimed musicians along with handmade pottery, jewelry, art, beaded works and textiles by Native American artisans. Festival attendees have the opportunity to interact with Native American craftsmen, watch demonstrations, attend seminars and even learn to play or make a Native American-style flute. The festival carries an animal theme each year with the Hummingbird chosen as the signature image for the 2014 event. For more details visit musicalechoes.org or call (850) 243-4405.

Photo Courtesy Kathrin-Sapiha

— Zandra Wolfgram

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com April–May 2014

culture

The Emerald Coast Wildlife Refuge (ECWR) Zoological Park is home to five different primate species. Pictured here is Sergeant Pepper, a grounddwelling patas monkey typically found in the semiarid areas of Africa.

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Sanctuary

a for Sasquatch Emerald Coast Wildlife Refuge Continues Mission through Rescue of Crestview Zoo By Karina Orr // Photography by Scott Holstein

white tiger paces in a garage. A monkey looks through the bars of a birdcage. A fox is scolded for acting like … well, a fox. Each of these animals was once labeled an exotic pet and kept in a person’s home. Exotic might be an appropriate designation, but not one of these animals should have been a pet. It didn’t take long before their owners were overwhelmed by the animals’ behaviors and locked them away or mistreated them, simply for acting like the wild animals they are. But now each one resides at the Emerald Coast Wildlife Refuge (EWCR) Zoological Park in Crestview, where its natural instincts are understood and celebrated. Through their rescue and rehabilitation, zoo officials want to educate the public about these animals, continuing the work begun by Debbie Mattox, the former owner of what was once called Sasquatch Zoo.

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com April–May 2014

culture

(Clockwise from left) Tawny (front) and Two Socks (in the distance) are two of five female timber wolves; Kota, the bengal tiger is on the endangered species list; Amanda Wilkerson, executive director of the ECWR, and Debbie Mattox, who first founded the zoo, with Levi, an African lion.

Mattox, a woman of 64 from Crestview who feels more at home outside than inside, started this mission nearly three decades ago. Her name for the facility came one day as she surveyed the terrain around her zoo and joked that it seemed Sasquatch might appear at any moment. You might not see Sasquatch, but today you can see Kahlua, the white Bengal tiger once housed in a garage, who is busy batting her eyes at Kota, the male Bengal tiger in the enclosure next door. (They’re “sweet on each other” according to Mayo Krabbe, animal care technician at the zoo.) You might also see the scolded fox cozying up to one of seven other foxes with beautifully colored coats. Or you might see Sebo, the 30-year-old spider monkey, happily swinging about his enclosure or reclining in his hammock. After her decades of work, Mattox said she realized that she needed someone else to continue it for her. “I wouldn’t have worked so hard for 28 years if I didn’t have a passion for each of these animals, but I realized I was being selfish to think I could keep it up on my own,” Mattox said. “It was time to retire.” Her wish was to keep the animals in their home and not sell them to other zoos, so she offered the zoo to the county. County officials refused the offer but suggested she look to EWCR, according to Amanda Wilkerson, executive director of the Refuge. After a feasibility study, Wilkerson said the Refuge came to the zoo’s rescue in January of 2013. “We didn’t just rescue the zoo, we rescued Debbie Mattox, the zoo owner,” Wilkerson said. “This zoo was hidden. Debbie had been working the zoo for more than 25 years by herself, and it takes a staff of at least four people. We have brought new life to something that I think was wonderful to begin with.”

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“New life” is a key phrase for EWCR. Its mission at the Refuge, headquartered in Fort Walton Beach, is to provide a new life for injured and orphaned animals native to the area, but with the acquisition of the Crestview zoo, that mission has been expanded. “At the Refuge we are limited to native species, but with the zoo we can handle any number and kind of species,” Wilkerson said. “We’re not going to be a facility that is interested in breeding animals for display. All the animals have a story on how they got here and why. We try to let everyone know their stories.” Brittany Patrick, wildlife health technician, shared Albert the black bear’s story during a “keeper talk.” “Albert was a circus bear and he came to the zoo when he retired. When the refuge took over the zoo, we built him this new enclosure. It was the first time he’d been on grass in 23 years,” Patrick said, feeding him his favorite treat, an egg.

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culture

(Clockwise from left) Benji, a ringtailed lemur, moves into his new enclosure; Vuk is a red fox, the largest of the true foxes; The lemur’s daily diet includes leaf eater biscuits and fresh veggies, fruit, berries and nuts.

Keeper talks are opportunities for the staff to speak to visitors about the animals, educate them about the species and give the animals a chance to get some much needed interaction. “We have the keeper talks every day, and we educate the public about the animals. Education is important because without it we’re not doing (each) species any justice,” Patrick said. Albert isn’t the only animal who has seen dramatic improvements to his living situation. The big cats, Kahlua and Kota, were each given a swimming pool, though Kota’s still not sure about his. The zoo also had the opportunity to rescue baboons from a New Jersey zoo that had left the animals exposed to the elements, resulting in frostbite. “We’re proud to give them a better life and to have them live out their days here,” Krabbe said as he fed Levi the lion a piece of raw meat through the fence. “I feel like our zoo is a sanctuary for animals who have nowhere else to go.” Jordan Denius, a mom from Moseyhead, had visited Sasquatch Zoo in the past and came back with her family to see the changes made by the refuge staff. “It’s really exciting to see the new animals and to see what has changed. The bear used to be where the baboons are now, and he looks much happier in his new habitat with the extra space,” Denius said as the children ran around the picnic tables in awe of the turkey, hens and geese

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wandering the zoo. “We’ll keep coming back to see what else they rescue.” The zoo already has plans in the works for several new enclosures, but Wilkerson, the foster mother of a lemur rejected by its mother, said she wants the zoo to be more than just something to look at. “Twenty-five or 30 years ago, zoos were just a roadside menagerie of animals. Today, most funds for conservation come from zoos,” Wilkerson said. “The zoo brings people to us every day, and we’re able to educate people about conservation and protecting these animals. We want it to be a very hands-on and interactive educational facility. We want kids to be able to experience the natural world from every angle.” The day-to-day work of the rescued zoo, which runs on the generosity of donors and the hands of volunteers, requires an incredible amount of work and funds. “We definitely need volunteers,” Wilkerson said. “For people who want to be outdoors and work with larger animals, this is a great place. Or, if you don’t want to pick up poo, then you can help with the camps, lead tours or sell concessions.” If you aren’t able to sponsor an exhibit, lay sod in a habitat or donate meat and produce. You can do your part in helping these animals comfortably live out their days by simply visiting the zoo and giving animals, like Levi the lion, someone to show off for. ec

How to do the Zoo

Emerald Coast Wildlife Refuge (EWCR) Zoological Park Address: 5262 Deer Springs Dr., Crestview Hours: Tues–Sun, 10 a.m.–4 p.m./5 p.m. (seasonal hours) Cost: Donation of $8 for adults, $5 for children ages 2–10 What to see and do: More than 100 animals, including tigers, a lion, monkeys, tortoises, wolves, lemurs, antelope, llamas, a bear and many species of birds. Concession stand, field trips, and birthday and private parties are available. How to help: To volunteer, donate or for more information, contact Susan Leveille at (850) 650-1880.

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thecalendar +save the date

2014 Emerald Coast Top Salon

april + may

April 4 The top 10 salon finalists from across the Emerald Coast will take the stage at the newly renovated Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa to reveal the secrets to their madeover models. Attendees along with a panel of judges will crown the Emerald Coast’s Top Salon for 2014! Mix and mingle with representatives from The Center for Cosmetic and Family Dentistry, our presenting sponsor, and the elite of the salon industry. Tickets are $57. A portion of the proceeds are donated to the charity of the winning salon’s choice. 7 p.m. Tickets are limited, purchase at emeraldcoastmagazine.com.

+events

Sinfonia’s Bravo Beat 5K

May 10 Lace up your shoes and walk, run or simply stroll for the

arts in Sinfonia’s fourth annual Bravo! Beat 5K Run/Walk beginning at 8 a.m. at The Village of Baytowne Wharf in Sandestin and ending with a post-race celebration featuring live music, complimentary beer and food, and an awards ceremony officiated by Aimee Shaffer.

Proceeds from the event will benefit Sinfonia Gulf Coast’s mission to provide music education initiatives and guest artists in the schools of Walton and Okaloosa Counties in addition to presenting the highest caliber live musical events in Northwest Florida. Patrons may register online at active.com. For more information, call (850) 269-7229 or visit SinfoniaGulftCoast.org.

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

+events

The Little Black Dress Party May 17 Voted Best Event on the Emerald Coast in

2013, the Little Black Dress Party is back for its 5th year. This festive fundraiser was formed by White-Wilson Medical Center in 2010 to raise money for women’s health and to help raise awareness and provide education on the importance of preventive health care in the Emerald Coast community. The evening features a cash bar, heavy hors d’oeuvres, live and silent auctions, music and dancing. (And no, men, you do not have to wear a black dress to this event!)

Open seating tickets $65; preferred seating tickets $75. Emerald Coast Convention Center, 1250 Miracle Strip Pkwy. SE, Fort Walton Beach. 6 p.m. (850) 863-8112

Fridays through June

The Downtown Art Walk Make a date on the third Friday of the month to stroll Fort Walton Beach’s historic district and visit with merchants from participating shops and restaurants while enjoying art demonstrations, live music, complimentary beverages and hors d’oeuvres at many locations, as well as special discounts. FREE. Downtown Fort Walton Beach. 5:30–8:30 p.m. For more information, contact Jennifer Bundrick at downtownfwbartwalk@gmail.com.

Saturdays through the year

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

Through Apr. 11

Photo by GAbe Hanway (Top Salon)

Thursdays through June

19th Annual Concerts in the Park Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation in partnership with Ocean Reef Vacation Rentals & Real Estate will present a concert series featuring a variety of music from Motown, modern country, Broadway and reggae along with tribute bands for The Eagles and The Doobie Brothers. Bring your favorite chair and picnic or purchase dinner prepared fresh onsite from featured restaurants. Picnic Supper Club available on a limited basis for reserved tables and seating. Admission is $10 per adult. FREE for MKAF members and children under 12. The Dugas Pavilion, Mattie Kelly Cultural Arts Village, 4323 Commons Dr. West, Destin. 7 p.m. (850) 650-2226, mattiekellyartsfoundation.org

‘Inspired By Georges-Pierre Seurat’ This show will feature art in all media, inspired by the works of French Post-Impressionist GeorgesPierre Seurat. FREE. Art Center, 17 First St., SE, Fort Walton Beach. Gallery hours: Tues–Fri, noon–4 p.m.; Sat, 1–4 p.m. (850) 244-1271, artsdesignsociety.org

April 1–30

ADSO Window Art Display Come see the works of Vonnie Peters, artist working in watercolor and clay, on display in the studio windows of the Art Center, fronting First Street. Fort Walton Beach. Drive by and stop to see these works. FREE. Art Center, 17 First St., SE, Fort Walton Beach. (850) 244-1271, artsdesignsociety.org

April 3 & May 8*

Grayton Artist Collective First Thursday Art Walk Award-winning Grayton Beach artists Andy Saczynski, Mary Hong, Justin Lyons, Allison Craft,

Nicole Paloma and Modus Photography welcome the public to their cottage-style galleries, studios and workspaces for a meet-and-greet-style event. Enjoy refreshments as you talk with the artists, watch creative demonstrations and get an inside peek into their working studios. FREE. Logan Lane off County Road 283 in Grayton Beach (both Mystic Porte and The Shops of Grayton). 5–8 p.m. (850) 502-0072, graytonartistcollective.com. *Second Thursday in May due to ArtsQuest.

April 5

Opera in the Park — A Family Expo Day Join us for our first annual Family Expo Day at the Community Maritime Park Amphitheater to enjoy family-friendly activities followed by a performance of our educational opera “Little Red’s Most Unusual Day” by John Davies. FREE. 9 a.m.–noon. Community Maritime Park in Pensacola. (850) 433-6737, pensacolaopera.com

April 5

‘Lightwire: The Show’ Fresh off the heels of their breakout success on “America’s Got Talent,” the minds at Lightwire Theater have crafted a brand new, full-length stage show that will take you to a fascinating place where birds grow 16-feet tall, aliens exist and cats fight with light sabers. This electroluminescent extravaganza will be performed for one night only. $14 (children 12 and under), $28 for adults. Mattie Kelly Arts Center, 200 College Blvd., Niceville. 7:30 p.m. (850) 664-7787, nfballet.org

April 10–13

Harbor Docks Frank Helton Crab Cruncher Classic The Frank Helton Crab Cruncher Classic features many of the top cobia fishing teams on the Gulf Coast competing for more than $150,000 in cash and prizes, not to mention … bragging rights! The party kicks off Thursday at 6 p.m. with open weigh-ins from 4–8 p.m. Friday, Saturday and Sunday. The awards ceremony is EmeraldCoastMagazine.com April–May 2014

thecalendar April 12

Operazzi Ball – A Royal Affair  Pensacola Opera’s black-tie ball, with a gourmet dinner, live and silent auctions and dancing to the Don Snowden Big Band with Holly Shelton. $150. New World Landing in Pensacola. 6:30 p.m. (850) 433-6737, pensacolaopera.com

April 15–May 10

‘The Recycle Show’ This popular annual art exhibit features sculpture incorporating only recycled materials. FREE. Art Center, 17 First St., SE, Fort Walton Beach. Gallery hours: Tues–Fri, noon–4 p.m.; Sat, 1–4 p.m. Opening reception Friday, April 18 6–8 p.m. (850) 244-1271, artsdesignsociety.org

April 17–20

‘Thoroughly Modern Millie’ Based on the 1967 film of the same name this Broadway musical tells the story of a smalltown girl, Millie Dillmount, who comes to New York City to marry for money instead of love — a thoroughly modern aim in 1922, when women were just entering the workforce. General admission is $10. Fort Walton Beach High School Auditorium, 400 Hollywood Blvd, Fort Walton Beach. Thu–Sat at 7 p.m. and Sun at 2 p.m. (850) 833-3300, ext. 1819

April 20

Easter Brunch Enjoy Easter Brunch, overlooking the beautiful Gulf of Mexico at Vue on 30A. Chef Gio has prepared a menu that is sure to impress. $30 members, $45 non-members, FREE for children (under 5), $14 ages 6–12. Vue on 30A, 4801 W. County Highway 30A, Santa Rosa Beach. 10 a.m.–2:30 p.m. (850) 267-2305, vueon30a.com

April 20

Easter Explosion Guests can skip, hop or jump your way to The Village of Baytowne Wharf for an explosion of fun, including a visit from the Easter Bunny and a balloon-making stilt walker, face painting, kid’s crafts, an Inflatable Fun Zone and more. FREE. The Village of Baytowne Wharf, 9300 Emerald Coast Pkwy. W, Miramar Beach. Noon–3 p.m. (850) 267-8117, baytownewharf.com

April 23

ADSO Art Luncheon Award-winning Sue Tarkin will speak about new directions in the technique of encaustics, or painting with wax. $12; $15 for reservations made after Monday, April 21. Art Center, 17 First St., SE, Fort Walton Beach. 11:30 a.m. (850) 244-1271, artsdesignsociety.org

April 24

‘Gimme Abbey’ A tribute to the two greatest bands in rock and roll history come together in one amazing concert featuring The Return (Beatles 54 April–May 2014

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Tribute Band) and Satisfaction (Rolling Stones Tribute Band). $18 or $15 for MKAF members. Reserved tables available by contacting (850) 650-2226. The Dugas Pavilion/Mattie Kelly Cultural Arts Village, 4323 Commons Drive West, Destin. (850) 650-2226, mattiekellyartsfoundation.org

April 24-27

South Walton Beaches Wine & Food Festival More than 800 wines to taste, an expanded culinary village and celebrity winemakers will highlight the 2014 South Walton Beaches Wine and Food Festival, presented by Visit South Walton and Wine Enthusiast magazine. Proceeds from the festival benefit Destin Charity Wine Auction Foundation to support children’s charities in Northwest Florida. Saturday and Sunday Grand Tasting Tickets $85; Friday night Craft Beer and Spirits Jam $40. VIP tickets $150. Saturday after-party $60. Grand Park in Grand Boulevard at Sandestin. Check website for times. (850) 837-3099 ext. 3, sowalwine.com

May 2

‘Resurrecting Van Gogh’ Emerald Coast Theatre Company will stage “Resurrecting Van Gogh,” a new one-man play based on the life, work and writings of Andy Martin, a medical student and oncology patient at Tulane University, who conducts groundbreaking research on an extremely rare form of cancer that eventually took his life. $15 for adults, $8 for students. Proceeds

benefit Sacred Heart Hospital on the Emerald Coast’s Arts in Medicine Program. 216 Quincy Circle, Seaside. 7:30 p.m. (850) 231-0733, emeraldcoasttheatre.org

May 2–3

David Yurman Event McCaskill & Company Fine Jewelry & Watches will host a special designer event that includes an opportunity to win a unique piece of David Yurman jewelry. FREE. McCaskill & Company, 13390 Emerald Coast Pkwy, Miramar Beach. 10 a.m.–5:30 p.m. (850) 650-2262, mcckaskillandcompany.com

May 3

Cinco de Mayo Celebration Cantina Laredo Modern Mexican Food presents the 6th annual Cinco de Mayo celebration. This family-friendly event takes place at Grand Park in Grand Boulevard and at Cantina Laredo’s restaurant. Enjoy popular “Best of the Emerald Coast” band winner Heritage. Food, drinks, door prizes and displays by various Grand Boulevard stores in Grand Park will be included. FREE. 585 Grand Boulevard. 5–11 p.m. (850) 654-5649, grandboulevard.com

May 4

Cobia Tournament Winner’s Party A party after the final tournament weigh-in to celebrate the award winners. Ceremony following closing of scales. FREE. Harbor Docks, 538 Harbor Blvd., Destin. 6 p.m. (850) 837-2506, cobiaworldchampionships.com

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Sandestin Wine Festival April 10–13 Known as the “Kentucky Derby of wine events,” the 28th offering of this four-day wine and food celebration will feature more than 700 domestic and imported wines at The Village of Baytowne Wharf at Sandestin. The event kicks off on Thursday with wine dinners at various restaurants in the Village, continues with the Grand Tasting on Friday evening from 5 to 8 p.m. and Saturday from 1 to 5 p.m. And a champagne brunch is offered on Sunday beginning at 10 a.m. The retail wine tent for purchasing your top wine discoveries will be open throughout the weekend. Tickets for events are from $50–$85. To purchase tickets and view a schedule of events, visit sandestinwinefestival. com. For weekend wine packages call (866) 912-3224.

Photo courtesy Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort

Sunday at 8 p.m. FREE for spectators. Harbor Docks, 538 Harbor Blvd., Destin. (850) 837-2506, cobiaworldchampionships

socialstudies Wine Women & Shoes Feb. 7–9, 2014 Emerald Coast ladies put their best foot forward to benefit Sinfonia Gulf Coast’s music education programs at this three-day celebration designed especially for women who love fine wine, gourmet food, great style and — most important, supporting a deserving local cause. Photos by Zandra Wolfgram

Grand Opening of Jimmy Buffet’s Margaritaville Feb. 17, 2014 Parrot Heads, officials and Destin locals “cheered” the official opening of the 27,000-square-foot Margaritaville overlooking the Destin Harbor in HarborWalk Village with what else … a margarita! Inspired by the lyrics and philosophy of legendary Southern singer Jimmy Buffett, Margaritaville invites patrons to take a bite out of paradise. Peter Bos, CEO of Legendary Inc. said, “We may not be the first, but with this team we will be the best Margaritaville.” Photos by Zandra Wolfgram

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com April–May 2014

thecalendar May 9–11

SUMMER

ART CAMPS

Camps available end Abrakadoodle Studio Best Place for Kids of May through at Destin Commons Birthday Party beginning of August! 2012 & 2013 3

ArtsQuest This venerable favorite has a new home. Produced by the Cultural Arts Alliance of Walton County (CAA) and presented by Visit South Walton, ArtsQuest is held on Mother’s Day weekend and features 130 exhibiting artists, art workshops, live demonstrations, music and more. One of the largest art festivals in the Southeast, ArtsQuest attracts talented artists from around the country to South Walton to participate in the juried art show and compete for $10,000 in cash awards. FREE. $5 entry donation is appreciated. Grand Boulevard at Sandestin. Check website for times. (850) 622-5970, artsquestflorida.com

May 11

Mother’s Day Brunch Enjoy Mother’s Day Brunch overlooking the beautiful Gulf of Mexico at Vue on 30A. $30 members, $45 non-Members, FREE for children (under 5), $14 ages 6–12. Vue on 30A, 4801 W. County Highway 30A, Santa Rosa Beach. 10 a.m.–2:30 p.m. (850) 267-2305, vueon30a.com

May 16–18

‘Rock, Pop & Doo-Wop’ The Fort Walton Beach Community Chorus concert features singing and dancing entertainment to timeless rock music. $15 for adults, $12 for seniors (over 60), $10 students (under 18). Fort Walton Beach Municipal Auditorium, 107 Miracle Strip Parkway, Fort Walton Beach. 7:30 p.m. on Fri and Sat, and 3 p.m. on Sun. (850) 543-5298, fwbcc.org.

Class Descriptions and Registration Online

WWW.ABRAK ADOODLE.COM/FL07

MEET YOUR MATCH

May 17

7th Annual Okaloosa Arts Alliance Spring Fest The 7th annual Family Fun Arts Fest will be hosted by HarborWalk Village this year to benefit the Okaloosa Arts Alliance (OAA). Enjoy live entertainment, original arts and crafts from numerous vendors, free kids’ activities, food, drink and excitement for all ages. FREE. HarborWalk Village, 10 Harbor Blvd., Destin. 11 a.m.–6 p.m. (850) 424-0600, emeraldgrande.com

May 1–31

ADSO Window Art Display Come see the works of Isobel Smith, who works in ceramic, clay and acrylic on display in the studio windows of the Art Center, fronting First Street, Fort Walton Beach. Drive by and stop to see these works. FREE. Art Center, 17 First St., SE, Fort Walton Beach. (850) 244-1271, artsdesignsociety.org

MIKE OLIVELLA

May 13–June 7

Alex Kuznetsov Winner of the 2013 French Open Wild Card Attend the final tournament of the Har-Tru USTA Pro Circuit Wild Card Challenge and see the greatest tennis stars face off for a chance to earn a Main Draw Wild Card into the French Open. Bring your family, and watch the action. April 26–May 3, 2014 at Forestmeadows Tennis Center in Tallahassee, FL. For more information about tickets, sponsorships or volunteer opportunities, visit our website or call the TMH Foundation at 431-5389.

TALL AHASSEECHALLENGER.COM

‘Fauvism Show’ All art in this exhibit will reflect the influence and style of Fauvism — the first of the avant-garde movements that flourished in France in the early years of the 20th century. The Fauve painters were the first to break with Impressionism as well as with older, traditional methods of perception. FREE. Art Center, 17 First St., SE, Fort Walton Beach. Gallery hours: Tues–Fri, noon–4 p.m.; Sat, 1–4 p.m. Opening reception Friday, May 16 6–8 p.m. (850) 244-1271, artsdesignsociety.org

May 24–26

Memorial Day Celebration Children’s activities, beginning at 6 p.m., are followed by live bands on the Events Plaza stage from 7–9 p.m. each night. On Sunday, watch the sky above the lagoon light up with a patriotic fireworks show at 9:15 p.m. On Monday, the Village will host a Memorial Day program right before sunset, presented by Sandestin veterans, including a special brass band performance. FREE. The Village of Baytowne Wharf at Sandestin, 9300 Emerald Coast Pkwy. West, Miramar Beach. (866) 912-3224, sandestin.com/events

May 28

ADSO Art Luncheon Eleanor McCain, M.D., a physician and art quilter, will speak on how to craft various types of quilts. $12; $15 for reservations made after May 26. Art Center, 17 First St., SE, Fort Walton Beach. 11:30 a.m. (850) 244-1271, artsdesignsociety.org ec 56 April–May 2014

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Angel Flight Soars Feb. 8, 2014 Generous guests gathered at 723 Whiskey Bravo in their chic winter white for a “party with a purpose” and raised $85,000 for Angel Flight Soars — a volunteer pilot organization that arranges free air transportation for people needing lifesaving medical treatment. The evening also celebrated Whiskey Bravo co-owner Victoria Moore, the 2013 HALO Award Recipient honored for “Helping Achieve Lifechanging Outcomes” through her efforts as a dedicated Angel Flight Soars volunteer. Photos by Merry Waldroup courtesy Angel Flight Soars

BE-ach My Valentine Feb. 15, 2014 Art lovers and their sweethearts sipped cupid cocktails, danced to heartstirring live music by Something Fishy and bid on “romantic” raffle prizes under the stars in the beachfront garden and gazebo at Bud & Alley’s in Seaside. Proceeds from the Valentine-themed party will benefit the mission of Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation. Photos by Zandra Wolfgram EmeraldCoastMagazine.com April–May 2014

Raimund Herden seated on a handcarved antique European sofa that he says is “many times over the age of America” in his South Winds home in Bluewater Bay.

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living a

dream At home with Raimund Herden, the optimistic visionary behind Bluewater Bay By Zandra Wolfgram // Photography by Scott Holstein

He would invest even more in infrastructure. Eventually, he would n 1975 things weren’t looking too purchase an additional 500 acres for a total of 2,000 acres. bright in America. Thanks in part the 1973 oil crisis, a Like an intriguing woman, this pretty parcel of untouched severe stock market crash in 1974 and the country’s long land captivated this developer’s mind, heart and imagination for awaited exit from the Vietnam War, the nation was in the next 39 years. Herden began development only after careone of the worst recessions in modern history. Gerald fully canvasing coastal towns up and down the Atlantic and Gulf Ford was still finding his footing in the Oval Office afcoasts. Soon after he formed a clear vision of ter Richard Nixon’s resignation, and what his dream town would be: a world-class some may argue he never quite kicked the residential resort community. He and his economy into gear. Inflation was a whopping business partners, Jerome Zivan and Dave 14 percent. And though mood rings were all Weaver, put a shovel in the ground in 1978 the rage, no one was in a good one. Except and never once looked back. “It was a great maybe Raimund Herden. challenge, and we were all so excited because Always the consummate optimist, Herden, it was also so necessary,” Herden recalls. president of Bluewater Bay Commercial DeHerden didn’t take the easy road, or the velopers LLC and one of the original developfast lane to the finish line, opting instead to ers of Bluewater Bay, may have been the one If there was a beautiful carefully and meticulously tuck utility lines humming the Captain and Tennille’s hopeful underground, preserve green space and plot song of the year “Love Will Keep Us Togethtree, I would move out each of the 212 streets, one subdivision at er.” He was 42 and still spending some of his the lot line around it,” a time. He was vigilant about making choices time in Europe (he was born in Westphalia, Herden says. that would create a family-friendly neighborGermany). Though happily married to Margot, hood community filled with parks, recreationafter a phone call from some real estate business al amenities and as many trees as possible. partners in Atlanta, he would soon fall deeply in “There is so much nature here compared to love for the second time. But not with a woman Europe. If there was a beautiful tree, I would … with land. move the lot line around it,” he says. Northwest Florida, namely Niceville, and more specifically what A child of the war, Herden didn’t set out to be a developer. Movis now Bluewater Bay, took this globetrotter by surprise. “It was so ing around to escape harm left little time for education. So, at 16, beautiful, so serene, I just fell in love,” he says with a little wistfulness when a friend’s father invited him to take a three-year apprenticein his blue eyes. Herden immediately saw what many others didn’t ship with him at a small bank, Herden seized the opportunity and — huge potential and his opportunity to live the American dream. drew strength from his humble beginnings. “It motivated me even He secured funding and capital from both American and European more to succeed,” he says. investors and purchased the land “free and clear” for $5.6 million.

“There is so much nature here compared to Europe.

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(Top) Raimund Herden pictured in 1993 holding aerated concrete block. The lightweight alternative to concrete, manufactured by a German company, first appeared in North America when used in Bluewater Bay; (Above) During construction Herden learned The Village of Bolton was the site of a turpentine still in the 1870s, so he honored its history with “oldfashioned” touches such as picket fences and sweeping front porches.

A lifelong learner, Herden devoured collage classes in history, art and literature — subjects that interested him. Despite never earning a formal degree, he worked his way to becoming a successful bank executive. Life was his classroom, and he was an eager student. “I believe in knowledge,” he confides. “Knowledge is a currency which you can pay in any country.” Looking back on the early days of the project now, Herden sees his team’s lack of experience as a plus. “If we knew exactly what we were getting into, we may not have done it at all,” he confesses. As is his way with all things he commits to, Herden plowed through and was hands-on throughout the build-out of Bluewater 60 April–May 2014

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A ‘Nice’ Place to Raise a Family

Today, nearly four decades later, Bluewater Bay is a desirable resortstyle community of neat neighborhoods that are home to more than 10,000 people living in nearly 4,000 apartments, townhomes, villas and single-family homes throughout 30 distinctly different subdivisions. If Bluewater Bay has a Mayberry kind of feel, that was intended. “I believe in neighborhoods. I really do,” Herden proclaims. Not only did he incur additional expense by purposefully designing neighborhoods to look and feel differently from one another, he designed nearly all the streets as meandering cul-de-sacs. “I did not want straight streets, I wanted them to curve,” he explains as he moves his hand in a wave motion. “As you walk or drive you can look at the trees. This is more expensive, but this good for families, no?” That includes Herden’s family of five. Over the years he has lived

Photo courtesy of Raimund Herden (Construction)

Bay, signing off on plans, employing architectural guidelines, handpicking builders and learning along the way. “I maintained tight control. You cannot leave it to the builders or anyone. They are only in it for the money. I had my heart and blood in it,” he says. Avoiding trees was the least of Herden’s hurdles over the years. With large resort developments such as Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort in Miramar Beach and Bay Point in Panama City filing for bankruptcy, Herden’s project was considered a long shot. He fought off naysayers and skeptical city officials, including the Niceville City Council, which turned down his proposal to annex the development. “It’s OK, a lot of people didn’t believe in it, because I did. In fact, I think it is the only development in which the first person that started also finished,” he said with a satisfied smile.

in three different neighborhoods and currently has a single-story stucco home on the bay in the South Wind neighborhood. Herden is also passionate about family, especially his own. His three children are now grown. Raimund Jr. followed in his father’s footsteps and is an investment banker living in Germany. Katrin is an interior designer in Milan. Christina, the youngest, lives in Bluewater Bay, which allows Herden to see a second generation growing up to enjoy all his hard work. Everyone gatherd together last year to celebrate Raimund and Margot’s 50th wedding anniversary. “I’m very family oriented,” Herden says. “It’s important to have a good family and to try to be happy and positive.” When this family man isn’t spending time with his four grandchildren, you can find him working out in the gym, playing golf, reading or “exercising his brain” with Sudoku puzzles. Surely it is satisfying for Herden to see national media such as Bloomberg’s Business Week (January 2012) naming Niceville one of the “Best Places to Raise a Family in Florida.” Clearly, Bluewater Bay has something to do with why Niceville is, well, a nice place to live.

Raimund and Margot Herden

businesses, medical offices and support services, including its very own sheriff’s substation, fire district and post office. Whether breaking down cultural barriers between U.S. and The fact that 93 percent of the homes are permanent primary resiEuropean investors or supporting economic development initiadences makes Bluewater Bay a stable community and a success. tives, Nathan Sparks, president of the Okaloosa County Economic This tidy town is particularly attractive to retired and semi-retired Development Council, applauds Herden’s sage business savvy saymilitary looking to enjoy life away from the hubbub of the tourist ing, “He clearly understands the close connection that exists between towns that line the Gulf. Realtor Susan Rood and her family are liva healthy economy, bountiful job opportunities and successful real ing proof. Her husband is a retired major in the U.S. Marine Corps. estate development.” Living in New Orleans when Katrina hit in 2005, they sought refDespite the rapid expansion of the area, Brunson contends that uge in Northwest Florida. After looking for more than a year, the her city still lives up to its “hometown USA” name. “Niceville has Roods and their five boys settled on a five-bedroom/three-bath home always been known for its great quality of in Parkwood Estates. “We loved the location life. It’s safe, crime is low, and I think that and the schools,” she says. (Yes, Bluewater holds true even though we have grown,” Bay has its own pre-K, daycare and elemenshe says. tary school.) Many local leaders like Brunson see HerdAnticipating that families like the Roods en as a visionary. “He’s always been someone would come looking to live the “Florida who is able to focus on the big picture and lifestyle,” Herden’s strategy was to build a on what’s important,” she says. “He has great variety of home types with a range of price common sense and is able to look at the needs points to attract a spectrum of buyers. Acof a community to decide on his next move.” cording to Rood, it means there is somePlus, she says, “He’s a super nice guy.” thing for nearly everyone. “Bluewater Bay He has great He’s also an out of the box thinker when it is a community that fits nearly every level comes to marketing. The word about Blueof lifestyle. You have apartments for lease, common sense and is able water Bay has spanned the globe, thanks beginner homes and townhomes starting to look at the needs in part to the Emerald Coast International at $150,000, and then you have waterfront of a community to decide Invitational, a high-end golf tournament mansions from $700,000 to more than Herden created and hosted (with help $2 million as well.” on his next move.” from his wife and his daughter, Christina) Beyond price point, Bluewater Bay has — Tricia Brunson, president and CEO, at Bluewater Bay for 20 years beginning in helped to create a sense of place for the surNiceville Chamber of Commerece 1981, the first year the golf course opened. rounding area. No one would know better Larry Sassano, president of Florida’s than Tricia Brunson. She grew up in NiceGreat Northwest, was leading the Okaville, graduated from the local high school loosa County Economic Development in 1980 and has worked for 17 years at the Council in 1997 when Herden invited him to join the tournament Niceville Chamber of Commerce, where she now serves as president and CEO. “The growth was huge, and it was fast,” she says. as a sponsor. They had an immediate connection and have enjoyed In addition to a residential housing boom, Bluewater Bay was a lasting friendship for the last 17 years. the impetus for Niceville’s commercial corridor. “When you add “The golf tournament was a prestigious event. Here was an opresidential you need to have more services and businesses,” Brunson portunity to meet some international business leaders while playing says. “Bringing those residences in was key to the business commugolf and make them more aware of this area,” Sassano recalls. nity, because then you need grocery stores, physicians, drug stores, The attendees were impressed with what they saw, and time on cleaning companies and so on.” the green translated into local investments. “He’s smart. It’s a recAnd Herden delivered the goods, literally. Today, business on ognized quality attraction both here and abroad, because he did it Highway 20 is buzzing with dozens of restaurants, shops, small right,” Sassano says.

Making an Impact

“He’s always been someone who is able to focus on the big picture and on what’s important.

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The Marjorie Gray Clubhouse at Sunset Beach was the scene for many a gala reception where executives from luxury brands such as Credit Suisse Private Banking, Rolex, Jaguar, Lufthansa and many more mixed, mingled and conducted business with more than 3,000 guests over a 20-year period during the Emerald Coast International Invitational, one of the creative marketing strategies that helped place Bluewater Bay in the global spotlight.

The Final Phase

Herden’s personal involvement in Bluewater Bay was always down to the letter, quite literally. Each year he would sit down and write a letter to the homeowners about what was completed. “I tried not to promise anything. I just did it. I didn’t want to disappoint anyone,” he says. His strategy to “under promise and over deliver” worked. He easily earned credibility and the respect of homeowners, the business community and beyond. Though he thought he penned his last letter in 2000 when he unveiled the final residential neighborhood — Magnolia Plantation — soon he will have to get his stationery out once more. The final touches are being made to Superior Residences, a $19-million-dollar resort-style independent living facility for seniors 55 years and older on Highway 20. When it opens in early 2015 the five-story building will offer 94 one- and two-bedroom apartments with balconies and screened-in patios. Residency will include a long list of amenities that range from concierge service, freshly prepared meals and daily housekeeping to privileged access to Bluewater Fitness, Bluewater golf courses, a community pool and even a home theater and day spa. 62 April–May 2014

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Many of the 15 million Americans eligible for Medicare by 2020 will retire in sunny Florida. The need for facilities that provide assistance to this growing demographic is quite real. For local leaders, it couldn’t come soon enough. Once again Herden has his eye on the horizon and finds opportunity in growing trends. “It’s something that’s been requested of us for years. It’s perfect,” Brunson says. And though Herden has a bit more gray hair these days, Sassano assures that his golfing buddy and mentor is still highly motivated by these kind of passion projects. “He has incredible energy to do things like this,” Sassano says. “And it, too, will be a quality establishment that people will be attracted to, because he’s building it to his standards — as if he were going to retire there.” At 81, after seven presidential terms, Herden has lived his American dream — literally, and while bright eyed and wide awake. Today, the country is recovering from one of the worst recessions on record and unemployment is higher than we’d like, but one person couldn’t be happier when he looks around at his family, his home and his neighborhood community. And he’s still nothing but optimistic about what the future holds. If you are chasing a big dream, heed Herden’s advice: “Do more than people expect, believe in yourself and never ever give up.” ec

Bluewater Bay by the numbers

1991

the year The Village of Bolton built and renamed

fifteen hundred the number of members registered at Bluewater Bay Fitness

19 3 the number of manmade lakes

the number of 9-hole golf courses

1995

number of swimming pools

approximate number of restaurants in the commercial district today

thirty number of subdivisions

two thousand

approximate number of acres

houses sold in the first phase of the first neighborhood

the year Marina Cove Village was created featuring a natural cove and trees dripping in Spanish moss

one number of streets named after Raimund Herden

120

twenty

the year Bluewater Bay was recognized for its “best development practices” by the Joint Center for Environmental and Urban Problems

1980

sixty

number of slips in the Marina

the amount of retired generals in Okaloosa County half of whom live in Niceville

$8,500

forty thousand the cost of the first waterfront lots in Lido Village

the average price of the first interior lots

3:11 length of “Bluewater Bay” song by the Bellamy Brothers

1877 One hundred approximate number of beachfront apartments in Bay Villas

$160,000

the year The Village of Bolton was operating as a turpentine still

twelve

number of lighted courts in the Tennis Center

the cost of the first stucco-style waterfront townhomes with red tile roofs, which sold out before they were completed

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com April–May 2014

We Make the Rounds on

Health Care Throughout Northwest Florida, hospitals are upgrading facilities, staffing up and adding more specialized care as competition heats up By Zandra Wolfgram and Linda Kleindienst

64 Aprilâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;May 2014

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com

NWFL Health Care

Changing to Meet Growing Needs Northwest Florida, the state’s last real frontier, has undergone a multitude of changes over the past decade. The population has grown, industry has blossomed, educational opportunities have expanded and, not surprisingly, local medical care provided by the region’s hospitals has evolved to where it is as good as anywhere in the state. Brick-and-mortar expansion, along with innovative and improved technology — and a focus on patient care and quality service sparked by a strong sense of competition — are the hallmarks of change in the region. Though health care leaders may differ on their list of top trends, one thing they all agree on: The industry is vastly different than it used to be. “What we’re seeing is unprecedented change in the industry. A couple of decades ago it was maybe 5 to 7 percent of GNP, and now it’s 17 or 18 percent,” says White-Wilson Medical Center CEO Alan Gieseman. “When you look at the premiums you have to pay for health insurance and the outcomes, as a society, we’re not doing that well.” Not only has growth in the industry brought high-wage jobs to the region, but the quality of medical care — and its availability — has aided with economic development and the creation of non-medical, highwage opportunities. As Dennis Taylor, former CEO of West Florida Hospital, said not too long ago, “There is nothing lacking within the Pensacola area except for highly specialized transplant services.”

Patients who once traveled hours to get specialized care now have more of it available in their own backyard. From Pensacola to Tallahassee, hospitals are opening centers focused on the treatment of cancer and cardiac patients and providing improved obstetrics care for women and high-risk newborns. Rural hospitals have established relations with their big-city counterparts and large medical groups for a variety of services ranging from X-ray readings to providing for visiting specialists. And several, like Fort Walton Beach Medical Center, have purchased a $2.2 million robotic da Vinci surgical system, a robotic and computer-assisted surgical device that allows doctors to perform minimally invasive surgery. For the past two years, Fort Walton Beach Medical Center has increased its robotic surgeries to nearly a half dozen procedures. “Patients get out with a small incision and are less likely to have a complication,” CEO Mitch Mongell explains. As they have grown, many of the hospitals have tried to carve out a special niche in their regional market, an area where they can provide that extra measure of care that no one else can. White-Wilson Medical Center has more than 70 providers who offer 20 different specialties in multiple locations throughout Fort Walton Beach, Destin, Niceville and Navarre. They market that they want to offer “one-stop shopping” to their patients. Fort Walton Beach Medical Center has partnered with UAB at Birmingham Cancer Care Network to become the only facility in the tri-county area to be certified as an

The Experts Answer: How is the Affordable Care Act (ACA) impacting your health care company? “We anticipated confusion. We are unfortunately disappointed that there has been a lot more confusion than we thought … as a patient, provider and payer, you have different expectations and we’re not, as a society, on the same page yet.” Alan Gieseman, CEO, White-Wilson Medical Center

“We don’t know where it’s going, so it’s kind of frightening. It’s unfolding. It’s a major change to our health care system. There will be winners and losers. Right now, it appears there are more losers, because it’s not completely understood. It’s the fear of the unknown that scares people.”

Photo by Scott Holstein (Gieseman)

Mitch Mongell, CEO, Fort Walton Beach Medical Center

Physicians trained in the use of the da Vinci Robotic Surgery System are now performing many minimally invasive procedures at Fort Walton Beach Medical Center (FWBMC) with unmatched precision, including hysterectomy, hernia repair, lobectomies and other general surgery procedures. FWBMC also offers da Vinci Single-site™ technology for gallbladder removal through a single incision in the belly button, allowing for a virtually scarless procedure.

“I think this could be a really exciting and good time for medicine. Just because it’s an uncertain time and there are impacts and political agendas doesn’t mean this won’t become a positive force for medicine.” Tama Van Decar, Chief Medical Officer, Fort Walton Beach Medical Center

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com April–May 2014

Bay Medical Center in Panama City recently joined Sacred Heart Health System as part of a joint venture agreement between Sacred Heart and LHP Hospital Group. Bay Medical, a 323-bed facility will be able to retire all of its debt and begin the new joint venture debt-free; (opposite) AirHeart is Sacred Heart's air ambulance service operating out of Crestview and Marianna.

Medical consumers can easily compare hospitals for volume, pricing and health outcomes on medical conditions and procedures — as well as mortality, infection and complication rates. FloridaHealthFinder.gov is a website maintained by the Florida Agency for Health Care Administration, which regulates health care facilities throughout the state.

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Building Boom All of the region’s hospitals are waiting to determine the effects that national health care reform will have on the services they provide and, ultimately, their bottom line. In the meantime, of the patients they now see, about one in 10 have no insurance — and there is widespread confusion over who is responsible for paying the rising costs. Despite the looming financial uncertainties, many of the hospitals are just finishing or starting major construction

projects designed to meet the needs and demands of a growing region. Others are staffing up as never before and adding specialty services. With a goal of “building quality capability” White-Wilson has opened a new “satellite” primary care facility in Navarre. It has extended the hours at the Fort Walton Beach and Niceville Immediate Care clinics, and, at press time, was planning to acquire the Emerald Coast Surgery Center in order to add an outpatient surgery facility to its services. “You look at the need, or demand, and it’s pretty clear we’re underserved … .We’re growing to try to meet that. We’re making a significant investment,” Alan Gieseman says. Baptist Health Care, which is headquartered in Pensacola, recently completed a $30 million construction program at its main hospital labeled “Building a Better Baptist.” Bay Medical in Panama City completed a $70 million project that included opening a new five-story patient care tower in 2010. As of December, it also became one of Florida’s 44 trauma centers, earning approval from the Florida Department of Health to serve as a Level II trauma center, which ensures trauma surgeons, neurosurgeons and surgical specialists will be available within 30 minutes or less, 24 hours a day.

How Healthy Are We? A 2013 report by the University of Wisconsin Population Health Institute ranked Florida’s 67 counties in order of how healthy they are. Health Outcomes: How the Emerald Coast fared when analyzing its citizens’ length and quality of life:

Clinical Care Rankings: How the Emerald Coast counties fared when analyzing access to and quality of health care:

35 55 52 16 10 41 65

Bay County

Escambia County

Holmes County

Okaloosa Santa Rosa Walton Washington County County County County

42 24 62 21 30 54 53

Bay County

Escambia County

Holmes County

Okaloosa Santa Rosa Walton Washington County County County County

Photos courtesy of Bay Medical Center-Sacred Heart Health System (p.66) and Baptist Health Care Baptist medical park (P. 67)

Advanced Primary Stroke Care Center and is working “through the protocol” to develop a trauma service center within the next 18 months. In Bay County, the non-profit Bay Medical Center (part of the Sacred Heart Health System) cares for more than 80 percent of the area’s heart cases. The hospital is ranked among the top 5 percent nationally for cardiac services and is the only area hospital offering open heart surgery. Its competitor, Gulf Coast Medical Center, a privately owned 218bed acute care hospital, cares for the lion’s share of pediatric and obstetrics cases. It was named a Top 100 Hospital by Truven Health Analytics and as of this spring serves as the region’s only Level III Neonatal Intensive Care Unit.

NWFL Health Care “The major benefit is to injured patients — residents of Bay County, this area of Florida and our many tourists and visitors that come here,” said Dr. Glenn Summers, Bay Med’s trauma medical director. West Florida in Pensacola has spent $84 million over the decade. Sacred Heart Health System, also based in Pensacola, opened a 25bed, $38 million hospital in Port St. Joe. Sacred Heart Hospital on the Emerald Coast — which was built in Miramar Beach on 20 acres donated by The St. Joe Foundation — has added a vascular and heart center, a cancer treatment center and launched an innovative arts in medicine therapy program in the past two years alone.

Florida’s Overall Health Check Up According to the 24th edition of America’s Health Rankings, Hawaii is the healthiest state; Mississippi is least healthy. Florida ranks 33rd this year when compared with other states. The 2013 report illustrates Florida has its share of strengths and challenges. Florida’s Strengths » In the past year, smoking decreased from 19.3 percent of adults to 17.7 percent; nearly 2.8 million adults still smoke in the state. » In the past 5 years, the rate of preventable hospitalizations decreased from 70.1 to 63.5 discharges per 1,000 Medicare enrollees. Florida’s Challenges » In Florida, almost 3.7 million adults are physically inactive, and approximately 4 million adults are obese. » In the past year, the gap in health disparity by educational attainment increased from 24.6 percent to 32.7 percent.

The availability of primary care providers has seen a steady decline since the days when family doctors made house calls. Here is how the ratio of primary care providers compares across our area, the state and nation. Bay 1,902:1 Escambia 1,536:1 Holmes 2,838:1 Okaloosa 1,359:1 Santa Rosa 1,600:1 Walton 2,514:1 Washington 3,559:1 Florida 1,439:1 Nation 1,067:1

Health Care Report Card How the Emerald Coast counties stack up when it comes to specific health behaviors.

22% 27%

24% 28%

23% 29%

64%

68%

63%

70%

60%

Bay County

Santa Rosa County

Escambia County

Okaloosa County

Holmes County

27% 36%

19% 26%

57%

70%

73%

Walton County

Washington County

State of Florida

National Benchmark

23%

36%

21% 30%

13%

25%

25% 30%

Smoking Adult Obesity Mammogram Screenings

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com April–May 2014

New Technologies Help Improve Health Care

A text a day may keep the doctor away?

68 April–May 2014

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Photos courtesy of Bay Medical Center-Sacred Heart Health System (patient, Doctor) and Baptist Health Care (Baptist medical park)

Is There a Doctor in the House? According to the association of the American Medical Colleges, 15 million patients will become eligible for Medicare by 2020, while 32 million younger Americans will become newly insured as a result of health care reform. In addition, one-third of physicians are expected to retire in the next 10 years. As these hospitals finish their construction projects and meet the needs of the region’s growing population, and the implementation of the Affordable Care Act increases the demand for care, what does the future hold? Several of the region’s hospital CEOs see change on the horizon, with more physicians being directly employed by hospitals and greater collaboration and consolidation among those facilities that dot the 16 counties of Northwest Florida. Baptist Health Center has added nearly 100 physicians to its medical staff over the past couple of years. White-Wilson Medical Center recently opened a primary Leaders called the growth a “significare facility in Navarre; Baptist cant seismic shift.” They say doctors Medical Park also in Navarre is can more effectively meet the needs an outpatient center providing diagnostic imaging, laboratory of the patients by becoming economand rehabilitative services; ically aligned with the hospital, and Baptist Health Care (opposite) most leaders across the coast agree. is part of the Mayo Clinic Network with 6,700 employees “Physicians want to take care of paproviding care in multiple tients. They seek us out so they can. locations throughout Santa Rosa and Escambia counties. There is a distinct cont. on pg. 70

Regardless of age, sex, ethnicity, race, education or location, the number of Americans who are obese, diabetic or suffer from heart and other chronic diseases continues to rise. But thanks to the proliferation of mobile products and services, easy-to-use and continued innovation by the wireless industry, technology is dramatically revolutionizing our health care system … and improving patient well-being. By using mobile health products and services, the wireless industry is dramatically reforming health care via the three pillars of reformation: improving access and quality of care while decreasing costs. According to CTIA, The Wireless Association’s semi-annual survey, there are more wireless devices (322.9 million) than Americans (315.5 million), so it makes sense to connect health and wireless technology. The Benefits of Wireless Health Technology When doctors monitor their patients remotely, patients save time and money by cutting down on in-office doctor’s appointments. If there are irregularities with the patient’s health, doctors are made aware via wireless monitoring and can properly address the matter by alerting their patient to visit the emergency room or prescribing medication. In a field in which every second counts, doctors can improve care by receiving realtime delivery of medical tests and other vital information. With these tech innovations, patients can be prompted by text message to check their glucose level or take their blood pressure. Remote monitoring also means medical professionals can detect health problems such as cardiac arrhythmias. Wireless medical devices are especially

beneficial for people in rural and remote areas who do not typically have readily available access to the best health care professionals. Regardless of one’s location, wireless technologies help decrease inconsistency while increasing a patient’s access to quality care. Wireless Wonders Currently, there are more than 17,000 mobile apps available for consumers to track weightloss, engage in exercise and fitness programs or to help manage chronic disease. For example, some apps help diabetics record their daily blood sugar levels. If the levels entered are harmful or dangerous, a text message alerts users with suggested steps and tips to prevent the condition from getting worse. Expecting and new mothers can receive free weekly text messages via text4baby. These messages coincide with the baby’s

NWFL Health Care

According to the association of the American Medical Colleges, 15 million patients will become eligible for Medicare by 2020, while 32 million younger Americans will become newly insured as a result of health care reform. In addition, one-third of physicians are expected to retire in the next 10 years.

due date or date of birth. Started in February 2010 and led by National Mothers Healthy Babies Coalition, text4baby has sent more than 250,000 medically underserved people health tips. In 2013 several local hospitals launched Surgitrak, a free program to help keep family members informed before, during and after a patient’s surgery. iTriage is a smartphone app that gives access to medical information on more than 300 symptoms as well as profiles on local doctors. And several area providers are publishing numbers on their websites and in ads that provide up-to-the-minute wait times via text. A Valuable Investment According to international consulting and marketing firm Global Partners Inc., currently as many as 60 million people benefit from using tools like remote patient monitoring devices to promote and improve their health. The U.S. currently spends more than any other industrialized country in the world on health care, approximately $2.2 trillion every year. It is estimated that using wireless solutions could help save as much as $21.1 billion per year. Tama R. Van Decar, chief medical officer for Fort Walton Beach Medical Center, agrees that investing in technology yields

long-term rewards. “Technology is one area where you can max your value. It creates benefits down the line, always upgrading equipment regularly required on an annual basis to stay current. That’s the benefit of being part of a large, successful forwardthinking organization like HCA. They are not just focused on one area. They can see benefits across the board,” Van Decar says. A Slow But Sure Change The movement to embrace new technologies is slow but sure. “No one would confuse the health care industry in general with being on the cutting edge, but we’re catching up,” says Alan Gieseman, CEO of WhiteWilson Medical Center. In 2011, Congress initiated a mandate that health care providers make a shift to electronic records. It was not an easy pill for some to swallow. “The medical staff, like anywhere else, is a bell-shaped curve. You have young folks coming out who don’t know what to do with a pen and pad, then you have Marcus Welby, who doesn’t even have an email account,” Van Decar says. Despite an uneven “glide path,” in 2011 Fort Walton Beach Medical Center was one of the first wave pilots for the Electronic Medical Record (EMR) system within the entire HCA corporation. Today, FWBMC is “well over” the required 60 percent

mark. “Physicians and hospital staff learned to work together on what is really a different paradigm shift,” Van Decar says. And to incentivize hesitant doctors to make the deep dive into the digital age — cash. For physicians who either have not adopted certified EMR systems or cannot demonstrate “meaningful use” by the EMR deadline in 2015, Medicare reimbursements will be reduced by 1 percent, and the penalty increases 1 percent each year up to 95 percent. As should be the case, the ultimate winner is the patient. “If you look, electronic medical records show better patient outcomes and patient communications,” Van Decar says. But technology can also be a slippery slope. A doctor can check in on a patient’s status 24 hours a day, but now a patient can also weigh in on whether the doctor is “delivering” in real time, too. Fort Walton Beach Medical Center has launched a pilot iPad program called Limelight. “We can look at hour by hour satisfaction scores in real time. Patient feedback is immediately available and seen by the entire emergency room staff. If a patient is unhappy, we can see that and correct it,” Fort Walton Beach Medical Center chief executive officer Mitch Mongell says. Source: CITA Wireless Association

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com April–May 2014

NWFL Health Care

One-of-a-kind, All-in-one World-Class Care

sense that we have to work together to be successful in the long run. And that’s a good thing. It’s caused us to be much more effective as a team. It’s an absolute positive,” says Mongell. General surgeon Robert Hruby has hospital privileges with both Twin Cities Hospital in Niceville and Sacred Heart Hospital on the Emerald Coast, and recently began seeing patients out of an office located within 21st Century Oncology in Santa Rosa Beach. “I don’t want to worry about running an office and filing paperwork. Ultimately, I want to be in the operating room, doing what I do,” he says. White-Wilson Medical Center is hiring 13 new physicians and nurses with more to come in 2014. “We set a record of people joining this year, not because we’re smarter, but because the market is so challenged now. Health care is not the safe haven it used to be,” says Gieseman, who touts the “climate, water and collegial culture” to recruit top talent to FWBMC. Baptist Health Care in historic downtown Pensacola must agree — an

One thing all health care leaders agree on is that still more change is inevitable. online ad for an internal medicine physician urges applicants to “practice in paradise.” Industry leaders predict that more hospitals will continue to be consolidated into larger health systems. Bay Medical Center is one. The 323-bed hospital recently joined the Sacred Heart Health System. Sacred Heart leaders say its growth will help ensure they are able to meet the medical needs of the retiring baby boom generation, which they jokingly called a “giant tsunami.” One thing all health care leaders agree on is that still more change is inevitable. Perhaps for Emerald Coast providers, as with any of us, long-term success will mean the survival of the fittest. Leaders, like Mongell, who want to keep a finger on the pulse of the industry agree on at least one “evidence-based” truth they have come to know the hard way: “If anything, hospitals have to be adaptable.” ec

70 April–May 2014

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You don’t have to be a starting pitcher or star quarterback to get celebrity-treatment health care. And you don’t have to travel to the east or west coast for the country’s top one-of-a-kind center focused on prevention, treatment and rehabilitation of musculoskeletal injuries. Andrews Institute for Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine, founded in 2007 by internationally renowned orthopaedic surgeon James Andrews, M.D., in conjuction with Baptist Health Care, is a state-of-the-art, onestop health care shop on Highway 98 in Gulf Breeze. Heralded as “the only place in the world to offer surgery, diagnostic imaging, rehab and athletic performance training all in one facility,” the Institute has become the go-to place for athletes of all fitness — and fame — levels. Some of the most famous figures in sports have come and gone without much fanfare. Which is precisely the point. They come to Andrews because it is “off the grid” in a somewhat unlikely location (as far as celebrities go anyway), and they can get top-notch care and recover privately from injuries without being bothered. With a 26,000-square-foot Multispecialty Ambulatory Surgery Center, Outpatient Rehabilitation, Diagnostic Imaging Center, Athletic Performance Center, a Research and Education Institute and a multispecialty office park for physicians — all on site — the center is somewhat of a one-stop shop for those looking to prevent or repair injuries and enhance physical performance. Though Andrews is thrilled to continue to be the “go to” facility for elite celebrity athletes — including New Orleans Saints quarterback Drew Brees, golf great Jack Nicklaus, L.A. Angels first baseman Albert Pujols — it actually prefers to be known as the health care campus of choice for those looking to improve their lives by way of good health. Whether that means getting back to a professional sports field or simply getting back to your backyard garden, Andrews Institute likes to say it is about healing “the athlete in us all.”

Photos courtesy of Bay Medical Center-Sacred Heart Health System (Doctor) and The Andrew's Institute

cont. from pg. 68

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medical profiles

What is the most important thing in the world to you and your family? If you say good health, you are not alone. As the Baby Boomer generation ages and lives longer, wellness has become even more of a top priority to families all across our nation. EC Magazine wants to play a part in taking care of you, too. We created this special section to spotlight many of the Emerald Coast's leading health care providers. From the latest trends in dentistry to rehabilitative long-term care, these compassionate medical professionals are here for you. We offer up profiles that give you insight into their specialized skills, new technologies â&#x20AC;&#x201D; even their personal business philosophies. Who says you have to go it alone? These attentive local health care experts are ready to take good care of you. EmeraldCoastMagazine.com Aprilâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;May 2014

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scott holstein

medical profiles

Stubbs Orthodontics

Casi B. Stubbs, D.M.D., P.A. Dr. Casi Stubbs’s philosophy is that the patient should come first in everything Stubbs Orthodontics does — and the primary goal is to help anyone who wants to improve his or her smile. “We are committed to giving our patients and their families a first-class experience. From the moment they walk in the door to the time they leave, our patients feel they are part of the Stubbs’ Orthodontic family. It is our goal to make each patient’s orthodontic treatment not only enjoyable but memorable. Everything from treatment plans to scheduling appointments has been designed with our patients’ comfort in mind.” Dr. Stubbs opened her practice in 2008. In 2012, the office moved to a new state-of-the-art facility in Bluewater Bay, and a satellite office opened in Destin at the entry to Regatta Bay. “We did this to make it more convenient for our patients to come see us,” she says of the locations, adding that the Bluewater Bay office was designed to provide a larger, more comfortable space for patients. Last year a new digital X-ray machine was purchased to minimize the X-ray exposure risk to patients and staff and to provide faster, more detailed images for the doctor. Plans are to purchase a digital oral scanner that provides a 3-D image of a patient’s teeth. “We are always looking to improve what we do,” said

72 April–May 2014

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Dr. Stubbs. “I love the saying, ‘If it’s not broken, let’s make it better.’ That’s the way we try to do things at Stubbs Orthodontics.” Dr. Stubbs is very familiar with the area her practice serves. She grew up in DeFuniak Springs and attended Florida State University for her undergraduate degree. After graduating near the top of her class at the University of Florida’s dental school, she went to Nova Southeastern University for an intensive residency in Orthodontics and earned the Award of Highest Honors. She treasures time with her family and says one of her favorite achievements was capturing those moments when writing a children’s book, “This Will Be & You Will See.” She says she owes her success to the great families in the area and “our wonderful staff, who go the extra mile every day for our patients.” “To measure success in being an Orthodontist is by helping people feel better about their smile, which in turn generally makes people feel better about themselves,” she explains. “When you show people their new smile and see their excitement, it shows us that we accomplished our goal.”

CONTACT

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

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medical profiles

Sandestin Executive Health and Wellness Center tell us about your practice.

We are a state-of-the-art facility offering a spa atmosphere while providing a one-on-one approach to medicine.

what services do you offer?

Our services include urgent care, pharmacy, laboratory, physical therapy, radiology and more. We offer anti-aging treatments, whole body wellness, executive physicals and performance medicine. Sandestin Executive Health and Wellness Center is about personalized health care service. It was developed to emphasize quality, not quantity, health care services, with the personalized health care touch that everyone deserves.

what is the secret to your success?

Our professional team and affiliations, plus the variety of services in one location, are what set us apart. We offer same day and/or next day appointments, so there is little or no office waiting time for our clients. We focus on preventive medicine and long-term health and wellness.

who is on your team of caregivers?

Our health care team is unlike any other. Bradley Brobeck, M.D., is our radiologist. Mark A. Giovanini, M.D., brings his expertise in neurosurgery. Scott M.W. Haufe, M.D., practices in pain management and anesthesia services. David E. LeMay, M.D., is our medical director of clinical services, preventive health and wellness and sports medicine. Jennifer Marzette, DNP, Family Practice & Clinical Services, is a nurse practitioner integral to our practice. Michael Morgan, M.D., is our pathologist and Lab Medical Director. Michael J. Smith, D.C., specializes inÂ chiropractic services.

CONTACT

400 Audubon Drive, Miramar Beach (850) 267-6767 | sehwc.com

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com Aprilâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;May 2014

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scott holstein

medical profiles

Miramar Beach Dental & Orthodontics Jason E. Baker, DDS

For more than FIfteen years, Dr. Jason Baker has been

providing excellent dentistry. This year marks his eighth year on the beautiful Emerald Coast. “My family and I chose the Emerald Coast because of its variety of outdoor activities, community closeness and the coastal lifestyle that it provides.”

as a premier cosmetic and orthodontic practice, our goal is to offer a wide range of dental

services in one convenient location utilizing the most advanced technology. In order to accomplish these goals we recently finalized a design for our new state-of-the-art building. This office will house a lab for same-day crowns and the fabrication of dentures and partials. The facility will also have a fully functional surgical suite to enable implant placement and other esthetic procedures, such as Botox and Juvéderm. We will be able to offer our patients the comfort of treatment in a familiar place while providing the best care by our doctors and incoming surgeons. For our younger patients, we will have a brand new game room to keep them occupied while visiting!

technology has always been an important aspect of our practice. Last year we introduced the iTero® Scanner, a unit that allows us to capture a digital image of a patient’s mouth or teeth for crowns and orthodontics. It takes the mess and discomfort out of impressions! This year we are proud to introduce an

74 April–May 2014

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impressive new technology to our patients. i-CAT® imaging allows us to take three-dimensional images of the teeth, jaws and facial bones at a lower cost and using less radiation than the traditional CT scan used in hospitals. Three-dimensional imaging allows the most accurate diagnosis for impacted teeth, dental implant planning, orthodontic planning and viewing a patient’s airway in the diagnostics of obstructive sleep apnea. We also use cavity detection units to help us see and treat early tooth decay, utilize digital-low radiation X-rays, and offer televisions and headphones in each room for our patients.

we measure our success as a team, by developing

long-term relationships with our patients that lead to beautiful, healthy smiles, positive dental experiences and the referral of their family and friends. We believe that our success arises from the passion that we have for what we do and the environment in our office. We go further to help with our patients’ understanding of medical and dental benefits and their available treatment and financial options. We strive to maintain a warm, comforting environment.

contact

10221 Emerald Coast Parkway, Unit 10, Miramar Beach (850) 650-2070 | miramarbeachdental.com

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Grand Boulevard Health & RehabilitationCenter

medical profiles

Tell us about your business.

Our facility provides 24-hour skilled nursing, rehabilitation, therapy and respite, along with short- and long-term care. We also provide dental, psychosocial, podiatry, optometry and salon services on site. We have a knowledgeable team of caring professionals who are passionate about caring for seniors.

what does your facility offer?

Our facility boasts state-of-the-art technologies, including wireless Internet for clients and their guests.

Tell us about some of the accolades you have received.

What is the “secret” of your success?

Our patients and residents are at the center of everything we do. We take customer service a step further by treating them like family.

scott holstein

In 2013 we were honored with our company’s Highest Customer Satisfaction Service Rating and Service Excellence Award; the Walton Area Chamber of Commerce awarded us the Business in Excellence Award; and the American Health Care Association recognized us with the Bronze Commitment to Quality Award.

CONTACT

138 Sandestin Lane, Miramar Beach (850) 267-2887 | gulfcoasthealthcare.com

Coastal Skin Surgery & Dermatology tell us about your practice.

We are a premier dermatology practice on Florida’s Emerald Coast devoted to providing comprehensive and advanced surgical, medical and cosmetic treatments for patients of all ages. We offer a broad variety of stateof-the-art procedures to maximize your skin’s health, keeping it healthy and looking its best.

Area of specialty

what is the secret to your success?

Quality. Having a team of highly trained individuals with a passion to deliver the best quality care has ensured our success. We promote healthy skin care with compassion and respect and offer personalized treatments to each patient.

Scott Holsteiin

Our practice offers Mohs micrograpic surgery performed by Dr. David C. Adams, a fellow of the American College of Mohs Surgery — a qualification held by less than eight percent of all dermatologists nationwide. From Tallahassee to Pensacola, Dr. Adams is one of only two fellowship-trained Mohs surgeons serving the entire Emerald Coast.

Contact

12469 Emerald Coast Pkwy., Suite 101 | Miramar Beach (850) 654-3376 | coastalskinsurgery.com

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com April–May 2014

special advertisi ng section

E. Jennifer Esses, M.D. OB/GYN

medical profiles

Women and Children First

What services does your practice provide?

Our primary focus is comprehensive obstetrics and gynecology with a holistic approach to wellness. We strive to treat the patient how we would want to be treated focusing on their physical, mental and spiritual health.

Tell us about your background and family.

I graduated in 1993 from a six-year combined BA/MD program at Boston University School of Medicine. I was active duty at Eglin for four years, working in the OB/Gyn clinic. I have been in private practice locally for 13 years. My husband, Greg, and I have been married for 18 years and we have two sons.

Your practice is expanding. Tell us about it.

In February we began offering i-Lipo body sculpting, a revolutionary laser technology designed to complement a healthy lifestyle of fitness and good nutrition. In just eight painless sessions, patients can lose three to six inches from their specific problem area. The program includes nutritional and fitness counseling.

How do you measure success?

Scott Holsteiin

There is nothing more rewarding than a long-term relationship with a patient. Some of my patients and I have been together for over a decade; I consider that a privilege.

Contact

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

Emerald Coast Compounding Pharmacy Regina K. Jaquess

Tell us about your background.

I received my doctorate in pharmacy from the University of Louisiana at Monore 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 services does your company offer?

At Emerald Coast Compounding Pharmacy (ECCP) we formulate your prescriptions to meet your individual needs. Our facility addresses a range of medical concerns including: antiaging, bio-identical hormone replacement therapy, dental, dermatology, gastroenterology, infertility, pain management, pediatric, podiatry, sports medicine and veterinary.

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 ECCP we strive to develop a comprehensive plan to improve each patient’s overall health and quality of life.

What about your interests outside of work?

I am currently a USA Water Ski team member, and I am a seventime World Champion, holding World Records in both Slalom and Overall.

CONTACT

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

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Runnels Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics

medical profiles

M. Scott Runnels, DMD, PA TEll us about your business.

As a proud member of the American Association of Orthodontics, Dr. Runnels offers specialized orthodontic and dentofacial procedures. He has been in the field for 17 years, 15 of them right here on the Emerald Coast.

what are some of the cutting-edge technologies you offer?

The new technologies we feature — including Fast Invisalign, Carriere Distalizer, smartclip self-ligating brackets and Ortho Accel — help make the procedures of dento-facial orthopedics (which involves not only teeth, but also the jaw and facial features) more effective and efficient. These procedures are only performed by an orthodontist, so ask if your doctor is a member of the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO).

What is the secret to your success?

Contact

4399 Commons Drive, Suite 100A, Destin | (850) 269-0333 22623 Panama City Pkwy., Panama City Beach | (850) 249-3240 runnelsortho.com

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Beyond providing patients the latest in technology and orthodontic excellence, the office’s mission is to provide a warm, friendly environment that involves the whole family. We know all our patients by name. Our success comes from being professional and making sure our patients feel like they’re family.

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com April–May 2014

SPONSORED REPORT

A C LOSE R LOOK

Keeping Emerald Coast Couture Spotless Sometimes we take the conveniences of modern times for granted. We turn the microwave on to cook our food, or we jump into our autos and turn the engine on without a thought. Dry cleaners are yet another example. As clothing became more elegant and fancy, a more careful method of cleaning was required. The cleaner learned from experience how to treat these ﬁner clothes without doing them harm.

Of course the investment in the equipment and the plant is substantial. The entire plant operates on steam, electricity and natural gas so the utilities cost is substantial. Since The French Laundry processes hundreds of items at a time, the customer’s direct expense is reduced. While competition more or less forces all dry cleaners to charge similar prices for the service, The French Laundry stands alone in its level of quality and ﬁnished product.

Today, a professional dry cleaner is staffed with experts who have years of training and experience. Your soiled clothes are received and properly processed for that “first time being worn look.” The French Laundry only uses a non-toxic method and eco-clean solvents throughout the plant. While many dry cleaners just do business in the area of South Walton, for our owners and staff, it is also where they live.

With the exceptional quality of work by The French Laundry and the cost being equal to other dry cleaners in this area, why would anyone consider otherwise?

In 1845, a Frenchman named Jean-Baptiste Jolly experimented with using kerosene to remove grease and food stains from dirty tablecloths. It was observed that once the kerosene evaporated, the stains also disappeared. This process became known as dry cleaning simply because water was not used. Kerosene became scarce during the first World War, and this led scientists to develop chlorinated solvents, which were far less dangerous. During WWII, a synthetic product called perchloroethylene, or perc, was created. Once it was concluded that perc was a likely carcinogen as well as a threat to health, the course of action for The French Laundry was obvious. The French Laundry completely converted its dry cleaning plant and all of its equipment to an environment which is 100 percent safe and clean. The dry cleaning process used by The French Laundry only uses biodegradable solvents that do not affect the colors or the fabric. Besides the issue of health, the clothes come back cleaner, are much brighter and the offensive chemical smells are eliminated. The French Laundry is the only dry cleaner located in South Walton County to invest in this conversion.

The French Laundry Destin is located at the entrance of Tops’l Resort, next to Ocean Club. Open 8‒5:30 Monday–Friday, 8‒1 Saturday; 850-269-0006 The French Laundry Santa Rosa Beach is just oﬀ 393 South at 24 Shannon Lane. Open 7‒5:30 Monday–Friday, 8‒1 Saturday; 850-622-0432 thefrenchlaundry@yahoo.com frenchlaundrydrycleaners.com

Our environmentally clean machine avoids the toxic eﬀects of perc and other non-biodegradeable solvents.

A Dry Cleaner and More • • • • • • 78 April–May 2014

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Voted “The Best” 2011, 2012, 2013 Eco-Friendly Products Same-Day Service when in by 9 am Free Pickup and Delivery Button Check and Minor Repairs Alterations

• • • • • •

Shoe Repair Wedding Dresses Wash/Dry/Fold Service Draperies, Bed Linens Rug Cleaning Leather Cleaning

the good life Food + Trave l + He a lth + Home

eudaimonia*

In Plein Sight

Artist Joan Vienot paints her view of the Oaks Marina in Niceville.

Photo by Scott Holstein

The term, en plein air, is a French phrase that simply translated means “in the open air” and has come to define the art of painting outdoors. The roots of plein air painting are found in 19th-century Europe when paints became available in tubes and allowed artists to leave the studio and carry equipment to the location of their choice. English artist John Constable believed that artists should forget “formulas” and trust their own vision in finding truth in nature. Over the past 15 years, plein air painting has experienced resurgence in popularity due to the great connection made between the artist and his subject and potential patron. Most often plein air painting is done on location, capturing the atmosphere of the moment. The majority of the painting must be completed on site with little to no work to be done in the studio. Most artists agree this is the true test of one’s skill as a painter as it requires complete confidence in placement of color and brushwork in a short amount of time. For example, a sunset may only last 30 to 40 minutes. That would be all the time the artist has to capture the scene. It’s plain to see the Emerald Coast Plein Air Painters are one of the many things that make this area even more beautiful to behold. — Diane Dorney

*happiness is ...

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com April–May 2014

DEAL Estate

just sold

Go to emeraldcoastmagazine.com for REAL ESTATE listings

Facts and Stats All statistics listed below pertain to sales in January 2014 and are provided by the Emerald Coast Association of Realtors, Florida Realtor and the National Association of Realtors.

LOCAL The median sale price for single family homes was $231,635 — a 6.3% increase over January 2013.

Quick Look:

List Price: $4,200,000 ($561.87/sq.ft.) Sold For: $3,750,000 ($501.67/sq.ft.) Square Feet: 7,475 Bedrooms: 4 Bathrooms: 5

A Santa Rosa Beach Sanctuary Highest Priced Condo Ever Sold on 30A

hen this breathtaking 30A property went on the market last year, Royce Mitchell of Prudential PenFed knew it was something special. Despite being the highest priced luxury condo on 30A, the immense value of the home was apparent, and Mitchell had just the client in mind. Since the property was listed with another agency, it was crucial to keep the lines of communication open to close this multi-million dollar deal. “It was definitely a team effort, and it was a great transaction,” explained Mitchell, whose client purchased the listing. “It’s the highest priced condominium that’s ever sold on 30A.” The high pricetag on this property brought with it many perks. A truly one-of-a-kind luxury condo, the two-story penthouse home features

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By Chay D. Baxley

two massive Gulf-front balconies (totaling 2,953 square feet of outdoor living space) that offer an unmatched panoramic view. “I always thought Oprah should have bought it,” joked listing agent Janette Klein of ResortQuest Real Estate. Characterized by an abundance of natural light and an accommodating floor plan, this 2007 building’s interior is equally as impressive. Complete with two gourmet kitchens, multiple fireplaces and a private elevator, everything about this property is high-end. According to Mitchell, the quality of the condo is what sealed the deal. “There were several other properties that we viewed, but the uniqueness of this Gulf-front luxury condo kept bringing [my client] back,” said Mitchell. “It’s just a gorgeous home and a very special property.” ec

STATE On average, Florida’s closed single family home sales received 92.5% of their original list price. Townhouse and condo inventory (active listings) in Florida increased by 3.5% between January 2013 and 2014. National Nationally, total housing inventories were in January 2014 lowest than they had been in a year-anda-half. Residential transactions dropped 5.1% to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 4.62 million in January from 4.87 million in December — 5.1% below the 4.87 million-unit pace in January 2013.

Photos by Howard Robinson (p. 81) and courtesy Prudential PenFed Realty (P. 80)

1363 Highway 30A #3128, Santa Rosa Beach

Okaloosa County closed 129 townhouse and condo sales — 64 of which were paid in cash. 111 were traditional sales, 13 were foreclosures and 5 were short sales.

DEAL Estate

just listed

Go to emeraldcoastmagazine.com for REAL ESTATE listings

Historic East Hill Craftsman Old World Charm, Downtown Convenience

By Chay D. Baxley

ositioned on a large corner lot in the coveted East Hill neighborhood of downtown Pensacola sits 1500 E. Jackson St., an early 20th-century craftsman home packed with nostalgia. Complete with a large front porch, original hardwood floors and beautiful built-ins, this home is a perfect match for any buyer wishing to customize a truly historic property. The main house is comprised of three bedrooms, two baths and a graciously sized living area. The home’s entirety is inundated with natural light — including the master suite, which features an added sitting area. A detached cottage adds square footage to the listing as well as rental income potential with an extra bedroom, bathroom and newly renovated kitchen. Similar apartments in the area have leased at $800. Though the home itself is strikingly quaint, it’s the location in East Hill that has people chattering. A favorite of both young professionals and growing families, the personality of this neighborhood has gone

through a series of transformations since its original development in the 1800s. Today, its name commands attention — and the area’s price points 1500 E. Jackson St., Pensacola reflect the prestige. “This neighborhood is a little bit eclectic,” explained listing agent Hilary Rember of Buyers & Sellers Complete Realty. “You Quick Look have smaller cottages, larger homes and some new List Price: $350,000 Square Feet: 2,747 construction that is much larger. The price points Bedrooms: 4 can run all the way from $100,000 up to $1 million Bathrooms: 3 or more in this neighborhood.” Contact: Hilary Perfectly located near downtown parks, nightlife, Rember, Broker culture, marinas and just a short drive to the beach, Associate at Buyers & East Hill has won over many with its diverse and arSellers Complete Realty, tistic happenings — including listing agent Rember. (850) 429-0100 “Honestly, I wouldn’t live any place else,” enthused Rember. ec

Dedicated to Luxury y Real Estate Regatta Bay R John Cook

•

850.582.0874

•

Coldwell Banker United, Realtors

www.JohnCookDestin.com

•

4458 Legendary Drive

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Suite 100

•

Destin, FL 32541

John.Cook@cbunited.com

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com April–May 2014

in the neighborhood

Is Your Destiny by the Sea? Exclusive Beachfront Community in Destin Delivers the Good Life By Zandra Wolfgram

magine a Gulf-front beach house with all the trimmings located on a street called Ocean Boulevard. Welcome to Destiny by the Sea, the only Destin community located entirely on the south side of Scenic Gulf Drive (Highway 98). If it is your destiny to live in this premier, gated beachfront community of around 100 single-family homes on lushly landscaped streets with names like Calypso Cay, Calico Cay and Conch Cay, you’ll pay an average of $1.2 million (at least for the houses currently on the market at press time, of which there are 14 along with 4 lots). Though more and more homes on the Emerald Coast are trending toward becoming primary residences, currently in high-end communities like Destiny by the Sea upwards of 90 percent of the handsome homes are purchased as vacation or

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Go to emeraldcoastmagazine.com for REAL ESTATE listings

second homes, making a purchase here a valuable long-term investment. And why not? The quality construction of these detailed Mediterranean-style concrete and stucco villas topped with barreltile roofs have stood the test of time and are aging well. Many also deliver on custom features such as deep covered porches, secluded courtyards and even expansive roof-top terraces equipped with outdoor kitchens, hot tubs and swimming pools. In addition to resort-style amenities like concierge services, a lushly landscaped resort-style community pool and an enviable location offering beach access to the gorgeous Gulf, guard-gated beach communities are increasingly attractive to buyers with families because they are safe and private. But it hasn’t been a “walk on the beach” for everyone. According to realtor Cindy Cole with Cindy Cole Fine Homes, a few years ago nearly 50 percent of the homes for sale in Destiny by the Sea were either foreclosures or short sales. Cole should know. Closing $40 million in 2013, she ranks as the No. 1 realtor for sales on the Gulf in the Emerald Coast market. Specializing in luxury listings, she has been the top seller in Destiny by the Sea since she moved to the area from Atlanta in 2009. “It is a very rare gated neighborhood unlike any other on a body of water,” she says. “People will look all over the coast and then they come back and buy here. It’s extremely unique, so it’s the first thing that sells.” Cole says the market jumped on low

interest rates and in 2013 only a handful of distressed homes were listed. Year over year since 2009, both list prices and per square foot asking prices for homes in Destiny by the Sea have increased. In 2012 it rose 30 percent, according to Cole, who says the average Gulf front home is $750 per square foot while the average interior homes are around $400. “The price point hasn’t scared off qualified, serious buyers,” Cole says. In 2013, 13 of 14 neighborhood home sales closed as cash deals — a sign the market for fine homes on the Emerald Coast is healthy again. If you like the sound of $920 per square foot, you can spread out in a six-bedroom, six-and-a-half bath, 5,696-square-foot waterfront show place on Ocean Boulevard with all the extras. It is listed with Cindy Cole Fine Homes for $5,240,000. And don’t forget the HOA fee, which Cole says is a steal at $1,063 per quarter. If it is your dream to live the good life by the sea, let’s hope destiny takes a hand. ec

Photos Courtesy of Jason Parker, Emerald Coast Real Estate Photography, LLC (top) and Erin Parker, Emerald Coast Real Estate Photography, LLC (bottom)

DEAL Estate

No. 1 Agent in Destiny by the Sea No. 1 Agent in Emerald Coast Gulf-front Home Sales

Featured Homes in Destiny by the Sea

4754 Ocean Boulevard

4744 Ocean Boulevard

6 Beds | 6 Baths | 5,696 Sq. Ft. Stunning Gulf-front showplace with private pool and home theater in Destiny by the Sea is projected to generate $460,000 in annual rental income. Offered at $5,240,000.

5 Beds | 4.5 Baths | 3,850 Sq. Ft. Concrete and steel built Gulf-front home in Destiny by the Sea produced rental income of $210,000 in 2013. Offered at $3,650,000.

SOLD

4719 Ocean Boulevard 5 Beds | 5 Full + 2 Half Baths | 4,515 Sq. Ft. Second tier Destiny by the Sea rental winner offers sweeping Gulf views and private pool and jacuzzi. Offered at $2,395,000.

4742 Ocean Boulevard 6 Beds | 6.5 Baths | 5,600 Sq. Ft. Exquisitely designed Gulf-front retreat in Destiny by the Sea offers a private pool. Cindy Cole served as listing agent at a sales price of $4,500,000.

CindyColeFineHomes.com | 850.502.6344 Now Accepting New Listings

Cindy Cole Fine Homes 36008 Emerald Coast Pkwy, Suite B101 Destin, FL 32541 EmeraldCoastMagazine.com Aprilâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;May 2014

ms. grow-it-all

Spring Explosion Azaleas add burst of color to areas with light shade By Audrey Post We moved from South Florida to the North Florida Panhandle a few months ago, and I was delighted to learn we can grow azaleas now. Do you have any suggestions for getting started? A: First of all, welcome to Northwest Florida’s Emerald Coast! It’s a great place to live and a really great place to garden year-round. Having lived in South Florida for a few years in the 1980s, I recall that gardening pretty much ceased in the summer. And although there were delightful new shrubs and flowers to grow and learn, many plants I loved, including azaleas, simply weren’t adapted to the warm winters of South Florida. Our North Florida winters tend to be mild, but we have just enough chilly weather for azaleas, which need four to eight weeks of temperatures below 50 degrees F. This chilling period usually falls between late December and late February for us, followed by the bloom season from late February through early April, depending on the azalea type and hybrid. Azaleas are members of the Rhododendron genus, and there are two types found in our area: the imported Asian azalea, an evergreen shrub that is covered in blossoms in spring and what many people think of when they hear the word “azalea;” and the native azalea, which isn’t as showy when it blooms but has its own charms nonetheless. Almost all native azaleas are deciduous, meaning they lose their leaves in winter. The form of native azaleas is more open and their flowers usually are fragrant. It’s a great shrub to plant if you want to stick to just native plants, but native azaleas add charm and perfume to any garden. And, they can handle more sun than their evergreen cousins. I encourage you to consider including a native azalea in your landscape, but your inquiry leads me to believe that your primary interest lies in the bold, beautiful spring explosion of color that evergreen azaleas create. Historically, evergreen azaleas were popular as foundation plants or as a mass planting to draw the eye to the back or edge of a property. One of the iconic images of azaleas can be seen each year Augusta National Golf Club, home of the annual Masters Tournament. Another was in the promotional material for Cypress Gardens in Winter Haven, where lush grass marched right up to a bank of azaleas, and a Southern Belle in hoop-skirt frock with matching parasol patiently waited to smile with you for a souvenir photograph. Legoland sits on the property now, but the azaleas are still there, incorporated into the theme park’s botanical gardens. 84 April–May 2014

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Azaleas come in a variety of flower colors and plant sizes, so decide what you want to do with your azaleas before you make your selection. Some of the traditional favorites, including George Taber (pale pink with red blotches), Formosa (fuchsia) and Mrs. G.G. Gerbing (white), can get 8 feet tall, so you wouldn’t want them as foundation plantings under your front windows — unless you want to spend every spring pruning them back and keeping their size in check. You’re much better off taking the mature size into account and planting accordingly. There are mid-size azaleas that can get up to 5 or 6 feet tall, and small azaleas, that grow only to a height of 2 to 4 feet. These shorter varieties include the Ruffles azaleas, Red Ruffles and Pink Ruffles, and Vivid, with red blooms. Get a soil test done before you plant, because azaleas need welldrained, acidic soil with a pH of 4.5 to 6.0. With a pH that’s any higher, the shrub can’t absorb the iron and other micronutrients that are needed to stay healthy, and the leaves will turn yellow. Some people add sulfur to lower the pH, but too much of it can damage the root system. Pick the right place for the plant, and you’ll save yourself time, money and work. You can get a soil-test kit and instructions at the county Extension Service. Azaleas are not salt-tolerant, so they’re not a good choice for coastal landscapes. Azaleas need dappled or filtered shade, particularly in the heat of the late afternoon. Too much shade will limit flowering. Tall pines provide good light for azaleas. Plant at the same level the shrub sat in the pot, or slightly higher, and make sure you loosen the root

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ball before you put it into the planting hole. Keep it wellwatered the first few weeks as it gets established. Azaleas’ root systems are shallow, so protect them with a 2–3-inch layer of mulch but keep the mulch a couple of inches back from the trunk. You’ll need to fertilize it and prune it to get that full, round shape. Prune lightly after flowering, taking each branch back to the larger one below it. Don’t prune after Fourth of July, because the flower buds are forming, even though you can’t see them. A word of caution: Invasive vines — including Smilax, aka cat briar; poison ivy; and dewberries, aka wild blackberry — will find an azalea and intertwine with the branches seemingly overnight. Keep an eye out for them and try to dig them out as soon as you see them. Be careful, because the dewberries and the Smilax have vicious thorns, and the poison ivy can create a nasty rash. If you opt for using a herbicide to remove the vines, make sure you use a sponge or other hand-applicator instead of spraying it, because it’s all too easy to kill the azalea and be left with vine. ©2014 PostScript Publishing, all rights reserved. Audrey Post is a certified Advanced Master Gardener volunteer with the University of Florida/IFAS Extension in Leon County. Email her at Questions@MsGrowItAll.com or visit her website at www.msgrowitall.com. Ms. Grow-It-All® is a registered trademark of PostScript Publishing. ec EmeraldCoastMagazine.com April–May 2014

flavor

Food Truck Frenzy A Variety of Vehicular Dining Venues Give New Meaning to Savoring a ‘Moveable Feast’ on the Emerald Coast By Andi Mahoney Photography by Scott Holstein

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ood trucks have been around for quite awhile on the east and west coasts and are beginning to rev up the culinary scene all along the Emerald Coast. When most people think of food trucks, they think of a quick bite on the go or a hot dog at the ballpark. While food trucks are still a quick and convenient dining option, many trucks along the Emerald Coast have gone gourmet and are serving up a side of atmosphere along with their tasty eats. You will find food trucks from Crestview to the gates of Eglin Air Force Base, in Pensacola and on 30A. “My family loves grabbing a bite at the food trucks and enjoying an afternoon in Seaside,” said Destin resident Melissa Zurick. “We can all get something different, and then enjoy lunch on the lawn together. Barefoot BBQ in Seaside is the best barbecued pork we’ve ever had.” Many restaurant owners have jumped on the food truck bandwagon to help expand their brand and provide another location for customers. Sweet Henrietta’s Treats in Santa Rosa Beach is opening Henri the Cupcake truck this spring to expand the current catering service.

“My husband and I have been wanting to do a food truck for a long time,” said Sweet Henrietta’s co-owner, Tina Stanfield. “Our goal is to go across the country to events and festivals, do birthday parties and find as many local places to set up as possible.” The Stanfields have some other ideas in mind for Henri the Cupcake truck as well. “We would also like to visit children’s homes and senior citizen homes with birthday cakes as a way to give back,” said Stanfield. If you are looking for variety at your next “truck stop,” Al Fresco in Pensacola offers fun urban dining and serves as a destination location on Palafox and Main Street. Four silver Airstream trailers make up the Al Fresco development and include Z Tacos, Gouda Stuff, Gun Shot BBQ and Greenhouse. The Airstream trailers are anchored by a restaurant, Shux Oyster Bar, and share a fully developed paved patio, including a misting system for warm days, umbrellas, tables and chairs. “I travel to Austin regularly and really enjoy the food truck scene there,” said Michael Carro, Al Fresco’s developer. “While Austin has amazing food, they don’t really have any great food truck parks. There are mostly gravel parking lots, and the dining experience is not as fantastic as the food.” Carro worked directly with the city to develop the Al Fresco corner, involving landscapers and architects to create an atmosphere that would be a memorable part of Pensacola. “We were trying to come up with a concept that offered a great experience and great food,” said Carro. “We wanted Al Fresco to be a great addition to the city, not just an afterthought. By working with the city we came up with something unique that everybody could be proud of.”

(Left) James Murphy grills up saucy goodness at Barefoot BBQ in Seaside; (above) Tina and Rick Stanfield treat everyone in Santa Rosa Beach to sweet confections from their polka-dotted truck named Henri.

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com April–May 2014

While the Al Fresco development has seen tremendous success in its first year of operation, start-up is not as easy as one may assume. As with any business, many food truck vendors have found their fair share of bumps along the road. The El Saboricua food truck in Fort Walton Beach operated for approximately eight months before closing due to permitting issues. Truck owner Angel Burgos partnered with another vehicle “foodie” vendor to create a lunchtime hot spot outside Hurlburt Field. “We did not have a lot of competition because we were a one-of-a-kind thing,” said Burgos. “People were really excited about having food trucks in the area, especially something with a Latin flavor.” Burgos loves cooking for people and first started selling his coveted empañadas out of his car before opening El Saboricua. He hopes to reopen his original truck concept this summer. Another challenge for food truck vendors is finding locations to park and sell, according to Alligator Pear co-owner Emily Dallas. Alligator Pear offers tortas, which are Mexican-style sandwiches, and

burrito bowls and can usually be found in the Lowe’s parking lot in Destin. “My husband has been cooking in restaurants for years, and it has been a life-long dream to have his own kitchen,” said Dallas. “This has been a great way for us to start small and build up, and we saw how popular the food truck concept is in cities like New York and Miami.”

A collection of nearly a dozen restaurants and Airstreams has turned Al Fresco Pensacola into a hip foodie downtown hot spot.

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Photo Courtesy eatalfresco.com

flavor

Alligator Pear uses social media such as Facebook and Twitter to let customers know the truck’s location and hours. “We see a lot of repeat customers,” said Dallas. “That is one of the nice things about [owning] a small local business. You really get to know your customers.” Of course the Emerald Coast has its own twist on the food truck concept, which includes floating eateries on Crab Island. In the early 1990s, well before Wayne Anderson planned for his Cabana Café restaurants, he opened Wayne’s Dog House on Crab Island. “Wayne’s Dog House was the first floating restaurant on Crab Island, and it was a blast,” said Anderson. “People loved the fact that it was on the water, there was live music and, of course, the food was always fresh. The uniqueness of the boat made the experience pretty cool.” While Wayne’s Dog House is no longer on Crab Island, others like it are. The Sinkin Weenie is a floating restaurant offering a full menu. “A boat selling food like a truck is a huge novelty and something that most people have not seen,” said Brian Fleming, owner of the Sinkin Weenie. “We have locals that are regulars as well as tourists that come back every year for the food.” If you are looking to have a unique experience with your next meal, food truck dining may be for you. From sweet to savory, the EC has its share of food trucks and boats to satisfy any craving. ec

Hungry for some food truck fare? Where to venture for your next “moveable feast” meal: Alligator Pear in Destin (Location varies) Barefoot BBQ in Seaside Bistro Blue at the University of West Florida in Pensacola Burrito del Sol on the Destin Harbor Camelinas on the Go in Pace Charlie’s Donuts in Alys Beach Doug’s Coney Island in Pensacola E Street Food Truck in Lynn Haven (travels for events) Frost Bites in Seaside Good Eats in Pensacola Gouda Stuff at Al Fresco in Pensacola Greenhouse at Al Fresco in Pensacola Gunshot BBQ at Al Fresco in Pensacola Gyro Zone in Crestview Original Georgios in Perdido Key

Raw and Juicy in Seaside Red Onions at the East Gate of Eglin Air Force Base Sinkin Weenie on Crab Island Super Market Mi Gent in Fort Walton Beach Sweet Henrietta’s Treats in Santa Rosa Beach (location varies) The Big Pig on Eglin Air Force Base (location varies) The Philly Cheese Steak Factory in Fort Walton Beach (location varies) The Melt Down on 30A in Seaside The Sidewalk Café in Crestview Tucker Dukes in Valparaiso Turner’s BBQ in Pensacola Wild Bills Beach Dogs in Seaside Z Taco at Al Fresco in Pensacola

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com April–May 2014

habitat

Prepare to Be

Bamboo-zled Meet the dearest darling of designers, architects and eco-conscious homeowners By Lis King

hat plant material can become a floor, skyscraper, towel, bicycle, ball gown, vegetable, cabinet or skin moisturizer? The answer is bamboo, as people of the Orient have known for forever. In the U.S., however, its use was largely limited to porch furniture and tiki torches until innovators decided to see what technology and ingenuity could do for this ancient plant. Plenty, as it turned out, and then environmentalism went mainstream, turning bamboo into the darling of designers, architects, homeowners and, of course, green believers. Linda Holman of Lovelace Interiors, Destin, is one of many Emerald Coast designers singing the material’s praises. “Bamboo products are inherently beautiful and a good ‘green’ investment,” she says. “I like to specify it for clients’ projects, and I have had bamboo flooring in my own house for 10 years. It creates a nice coastal look, perfect for beach houses, for example. It’s very clean and contemporary, and all it needs is damp mopping. And let’s face it: The more renewable sources we can use in our designs, the better for everyone.” Amy Stoyles of Archiscapes, a Freeport design firm, agrees. “It’s a great material that creates an elegant, modern look. I recently used it in a very high-end project in Fort Walton. The kitchen has bamboo cabinets. The clients love them, not just for the way they look and function, but also for their eco-conscious attributes.”

Chrissie Thompson of Better Homes by Design in Niceville is a huge fan of bamboo flooring. “It elevates room design to the next level,” she says. “No matter how eclectic your decor and color scheme, it just seems to work. One of my medical office clients has bamboo throughout the facility. The client loves its wonderfully light appearance and finds it exceptionally hard-wearing. One of my other clients had a houseful of cats. Hardwood flooring would not have worked because of the finish. I suggested bamboo, and the homeowner is thrilled with it. The cats can’t hurt it.” If all those tiki torches and kitschy island souvenirs you grew up with have made you nervous about choosing a bamboo floor, you should know that the material is 23 percent harder than oak and 13 percent harder than rock maple. In flooring, hardness translates to durability. These days, bamboo also shows up as moldings, window frames, paneling, stair treads, laminates, engineered lumber and even structural elements. Architect Darrel DeBoer, one of the world’s foremost experts on building with bamboo, says the material excels in highdensity strength. “In some ways it’s stronger than steel and concrete,” he tells. “It could even be used to build skyscrapers. They’re already using it for important structures in Europe and South America. But don’t expect to see bamboo used for homes in U.S. subdivisions any time soon. Our zoning laws wouldn’t allow it.”

Building with Bamboo Bamboo flooring and cabinets were among the first products to be accepted as an alternative to hardwood and can now be seen in many kitchen design showrooms and home improvement stores, including Home Depot and Lowe’s.

All Through the House Bamboo now comes in so many forms that you’ll be able to find it in many rooms of the house and not just as building elements. In the kitchen, there could be an array of bamboo cooking utensils and serving pieces, plus cans of bamboo shoots in the pantry. In

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Photos By Scott Holstein (flooring and Towels)

living and dining rooms, you could find furniture, lamps, upholstery, throws and pillows made of bamboo. And in the bathroom, the material could show up as shower curtain, rug and sink. In the bedroom, those soft sheets are probably bamboo, and in the dressing room you might see stacks of jeans and T-shirts. In the garage, you could come across a bamboo bicycle. The bamboo, say cycling aficionados, makes the bicycle light and reduces road vibrations that can cause rider fatigue. Designers like Diane von Furstenberg and Oscar de la Renta use bamboo for their clothing, partly because of its softness, smooth hand and easy price. The big draw is its “green” image. That image, however, has become a bit tarnished lately. Critics say that manufacturing the textiles often involve heavy chemicals, some of them toxic. Admirers say it requires no more chemicals than cotton, a textile that — unlike bamboo — is grown with extensive use of pesticides and fertilizers, so much so that runoff from Southern cotton fields have left areas of the Gulf damaged. Fans of bamboo also cite the material’s natural anti-bacterial properties.

Lovelace interior designer Linda Holman loves to work with bamboo. It is affordable, eco-friendly and versatile. She enjoys incorporating it into many aspects of her clients’ homes such as these colorful, plush bath towels and this gleaming hardwood floor placed in a home in Freeport.

The Wonder Grass Bamboo is actually a grass, explains David King of the American Bamboo Society. There are more than 1,000 varieties growing in the Far East, but it can grow anywhere, except the Arctic regions. It just might be the world’s most sustainable resource. It’s incredibly fast growing, with some varieties shooting up a yard a day. It can be harvested in four to seven years and needn’t be replanted, because its roots keep sprouting new shoots, and it does so without fertilizers or pesticides. It generates 30 percent more oxygen than trees, prevents massive soil erosion, and because of its high nitrogen consumption, it helps mitigate water pollution from manufacturing, livestock farming and sewage treatment. DeBoer calls bamboo’s reproduction rate astounding. “It’s better than trees,” he notes. “Bamboo replaces 30 percent of its biomass in one year. The rate of a tree forest is from 3 to 5 percent.” Wouldn’t this make bamboo a great garden plant? The Florida chapter of the American Bamboo Society contends that only palms rival bamboos in their ability to bring tropical elegance to the landscape, yet it is the state’s most underutilized category of landscaping plants. Floridians have heard the horror stories, it appears, how bamboo will take over an entire neighborhood. While it’s true that some kinds spread aggressively, there’s a whole category of bamboos that does not spread. They’re known as “clumpers,” because they only send up new canes inches from existing ones, forming a compact clump that makes them ideal landscaping plants. All in all, bamboo appears to be the super material of the future, and word has it that even some legislators think so. A bill is underfoot to plant three experimental bamboo forests in the U.S. The goal, of course, is to take the plant from import to domestic growth, but as in all things political, the outcome of the legislation is unpredictable. ec EmeraldCoastMagazine.com April–May 2014

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a taste for ...

Breakfast » Add strawberries, blueberries or sliced bananas to your hot or cold cereal. » Combine frozen fruit chunks, plain yogurt or milk, and ice in a blender and swirl it into a smoothie. » Fold sautéed vegetables or spinach into your scrambled eggs. » I n a hurry? Grab a piece of whole fruit such as an apple or orange to eat along with your granola or cereal bar as you run out the door. Lunch » Start with a small green salad. This not only contributes to your vegetable servings, it can help fill you up so you eat fewer high fat and calorie-rich foods. » Load your sandwich with lettuce and tomato, or try sprouts, sliced cucumber, avocado or apple for a change of pace. » Choose broth-based vegetable soups, such as minestrone or vegetarian chili, when you want a healthy, hearty hot lunch. » Skip the chips and opt for a piece of fresh fruit or a fruit salad as your side dish. Snacks » Satisfy that mid-morning or afternoon urge to crunch with a snack of cut-up vegetables dipped in salsa or hummus. » Combine fruit with a bit of protein, such as sliced apple with a handful of almonds, for a snack that offers a serving of fruit and the staying power to carry you to your next meal.

Fork It Over

A Healthy Plan for Fitting in Fruits and Vegetables

icking up a fork might sound like a surprising way to stay healthy, but eating right is a very effective tool to help survivors get well during cancer treatment and stay well after it. And, there may be no better way to ensure you’re eating healthy than incorporating plenty of fruits and vegetables into your diet. In fact, research has shown that eating 2 1/2 cups of a variety of fruits and vegetables each day can help reduce your risk of developing a second cancer. It can also help you get to a healthy weight, which can help reduce your risk of cancer and possibly cancer recurrence, too. But how can you fit in those critical servings of fruits and veggies throughout the day in a way that’s easy for you? April is Cancer Control Awareness Month. Get on board the “healthy bus” and pack in the produce with this simple, meal-by-meal plan. — Zandra Wolfgram

Dinner » B ulk up the dishes you already love by mixing in some healthy vegetables. » T ry stirring cooked peas, carrots or pureed squash into your pasta or throw chopped green peppers, onions or mushrooms into your sauce. » B ring vegetables to the center of the plate by serving a meatless main dish, such as baked potatoes topped with broccoli and cheese or vegetable lasagna. » G o global. Try cooking favorites from around the world, such as stir-fries and curries, that only use a small amount of meat and make vegetables the star. For healthy recipes visit the American Cancer Society’s website. Register for their e-newsletter and the information will come to you. Source: American Cancer Society

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com April–May 2014

dining The Key

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

Best of the Emerald Coast 2013 Winner Breakfast Lunch Dinner Outdoor Dining Live Music

$ Inexpensive $$ Moderately Expensive $$$ Expensive

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

Blue Mountain Beach

Grecian Gardens Restaurant Mediterranean. Traditional Greek cuisine served in an open-air atmosphere perfect for special occasions or parties. Open daily 11 a.m.–9 p.m. 3375 W. Hwy. 30A, 850-267-3011. $$ l d

Marie's Bistro & Bar Mediterranean. Enjoy made-to-order seafood, steak, pasta as well as sushi in a casual atmosphere. Dine in, carry out, drive through and catering. Full bar. Serving lunch 11 a.m.–2 p.m., Tues–Fri and dinner at 5 p.m. Tues–Sun. 2260 W. County Highway 30A, 850-278-6856. $$ l d Johnny McTighe’s Irish Pub Irish. A true neighborhood Irish Pub serving authentic Irish fare and the best pizza anywhere. Happy Hour Mon–Fri 4:30–6:30 p.m. Open daily 11 a.m.–2 a.m. 2298 W. County Highway 30A, 850-267-0101. $ B l d Blue Mountain Beach Creamery Ice Cream. Homemade ice cream, sorbet and frozen yogurt treats. Open daily 10 a.m.–10 p.m. Cash only. 2129 S. County Highway 83, 850-278-6849. $$

Destin

AJ’s Seafood & Oyster Bar ★ Seafood. Choose from fresh local seafood, sandwiches, pasta, chicken or specialty dishes like the oysters Eugene or Rockefeller. Open daily 11 a.m. 116 E. Hwy. 98, 850-837-1913. $$ l d Another Broken Egg café ★ Breakfast. Breakfast all day, plus sandwiches, patty melts, specials, soups, salads and desserts. Open daily 7 a.m.–2 p.m. Closed Mondays. (Open Memorial and Labor days.) 979 E. Hwy. 98, Suite F, 850-650-0499. $ B Boathouse Oyster Bar ★ Seafood. Discover Destin’s best-kept secret. Come here for ice cold beer, raw oysters, awardwinning gumbo and a great view of the Destin Harbor, and leave with a signature T-shirt from the

gift shop. Open daily 11 a.m.–2 a.m. 288 B Harbor Blvd., 850-837-3645. l d Boshamps Seafood & Oyster House ★ Seafood. Located on the beautiful Destin Harbor, this seafood spot will spoil you with spectacular sunsets, sensational Gulf-to-table Southern cuisine (including award-winning oysters!) and family-friendly service all in a fun, relaxed, casual atmosphere. Open daily at 11 a.m. 414 Harbor Blvd., Destin, 850-424-7406. $$ l d Callahan’s Restaurant & Deli ★ American. Voted Best Locally Owned Restaurant 2008–2013, Callahan’s serves up great sandwiches, seafood specials and prime rib. Mon–Sat 10 a.m.– 10 p.m. 791 Harbor Blvd., 850-837-6328. $ l d Capt. Dave’s on the Gulf Seafood. Enjoy delicious fresh seafood dishes. Open daily 4:30 p.m. 3796 Hwy. 98, 850-837-2627. $ d Ciao Bella Pizza Da Guglielmo Italian. Authentic Italian pizza, pasta, salads and more. Open daily 11 a.m. 29 E. Hwy. 98, Silver Sands, 850-654-3040. $$ l d CRAB ISLAND CANTINA Mexican. Latin-inspired Mexican cuisine in a casual waterfront dining atmosphere offering the best views of Destin Harbor. Mon–Thu 11 a.m.–10 p.m., Fri–Sat 11 a.m.–11 p.m., Sun 11 a.m.–9 p.m. 2 Harbor Blvd., 850-424-7417. $$ l d The Crab Trap Seafood. Offering fresh seafood, steaks, salads and soups beachside. Mon–Thu 11 a.m.–9 p.m., Fri–Sat 11 a.m.–10 p.m. 3500 E. Hwy. 98, 850-654-2722. $$ l d Crust Pizzeria Italian. New York-style brick oven pizza. Ask about

111 Cannery Lane, Sandestin (In Baytowne Wharf) • 850.424.5177 • agaveazulmexicancuisine.com HOURS: 11am-10pm • Lunch, Dinner, Late Night • Happy Hour Daily 3:45-7pm 94 April–May 2014

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our specials. Mon–Thu 7a.m.–9 p.m., Fri–Sat 7 a.m.–10 p.m., Sun 7 a.m.–2 p.m. 104 Harbor Blvd., 850-460-2288. $ B l d Destin Ice Seafood Market & Deli ★ Gourmet Takeout. Everything you need for a fresh and delicious meal. Choose from fresh fish and seafood items, pastas, salads and side dishes, Buckhead meats, decadent deserts and an assortment of wines, cheeses, spices and more. Open daily 8 a.m.–7 p.m. 663 Emerald Coast Pkwy., 850-837-8333. $$ l d Dewey Destin’s HarborSide ★ Seafood. One of Destin’s most popular restaurants serves up charm and award-winning seafood in a quaint house overlooking the scenic Destin Harbor. Open daily 11 a.m.–8 p.m. 202 Harbor Blvd., 850-837-7525. $$$ l d Dewey Destin Seafood Restaurant & Market ★ Seafood. True local charm in an outdoor setting and some of the freshest seafood around. Open 11 a.m.–8 p.m. 9 Calhoun Ave., 850-837-7575. $$ B l d Donut Hole Bakery Cafe American. Head to the Donut Hole for an outof-this-world breakfast or savory lunch — don’t forget the cinnamon raisin bread. Open 24 hours. 635 E. Hwy. 98, 850-837-8824. $ B l Graffiti Italian. Traditional Italian favorites and house specialties like seafood pizza. Mon–Thu 5–9 p.m., Fri–Sat 5–10 p.m. 707 E. Hwy. 98, 850-654-2764. $$ d Harbor Docks ★ American. A local’s favorite, this family owned and operated surf-and-turf restaurant overlooking the

Destin Harbor offers breakfast, lunch and dinner and the best sushi on the Emerald Coast. Open daily 5 a.m.–11 p.m. 538 E. Hwy. 98, 850-837-2506. $$ B l d

barbecue in one of Destin’s favorite sports bars. Mon– Thu 11 a.m.–midnight, Fri–Sun 11 a.m.–1 a.m, Double Happy Hour Mon–Fri 3–6 p.m. and 10 p.m.–close. 34940 Emerald Coast Pkwy., 850-837-1015. $ l d

Hard Rock Café American. Rock ’n’ roll, great drinks and mouthwatering menu. Open daily 11 a.m. 4260 Legendary Dr., Destin Commons, 850-654-3310. $ l d

Louisiana Lagniappe Cajun and Seafood. View the Old Pass Lagoon while dining on steaks and a wide variety of fresh seafood. Open daily 5–10 p.m. 775 Gulf Shores Dr., 850-837-0881. $$ d

HARRY T’S ★ Seafood. Lounge on the beautiful patio and watch the passing boats as you enjoy an endless variety of delicious dishes. Mon–Thu 11 a.m.–10 p.m., Fri–Sat 11 a.m.–11 p.m., Sun 10 a.m.–10 p.m. 46 Harbor Blvd., 850-654-4800. $$ B l d

Marina Café American. Gourmet pizzas, Creole and American cuisine. Open daily 5–10 p.m. 404 E. Hwy. 98, 850-837-7960. $$ d

ISLAND WING COMPANY American. Get baked at this fryer-free sports pub. Wings, gourmet burgers, fish tacos, salads, sandwiches and the like. Try any of the 50 beers on tap while watching your fav sports teams on 28 TVs, all in a fun, relaxing atmosphere. Open daily 11 a.m.–midnight. 98 Palm Center, 981 Highway 98 E., Unit 13, 850-837-2999. $ l d Jasmine Thai ★ Thai. Authentic Thai cuisine that is a combination of traditional and modern. Enjoy a variety of Thai dishes with different levels of spiciness made to your liking. Reservations are recommended. Tues–Sun lunch 11 a.m.–3 p.m., dinner 5–9 p.m. 4424 Commons Drive E., 850-269-0185. $$ l d Jim ’N Nick’s Bar-B-Q ★ Barbecue. Southern smokehouse barbecue. Beer and wine. Open daily 11 a.m. 14073 Emerald Coast Pkwy., 850-351-1991. $ l d Johnny O’Quigley’s ★ American. Award-winning steak, seafood and

Mimmo’s Ristorante Italiano Italian. Mimmo’s is the new hot spot in Destin for authentic Italian dishes bursting with flavor and color. Enjoy happy hour at the full bar serving authentic Italian cocktails. Catering available. Open Mon–Fri 11 a.m–10 p.m., Sat–Sun 5–10 p.m. 979 Highway 98, Suite 5, 850-225-2101 $$ l d Osaka ★ Japanese. Known for its sushi but serves a variety of dishes, including chicken, steak and seafood. Lunch 11 a.m.–2:30 p.m., Dinner 5–10:30 p.m. 34845 Emerald Coast Pkwy., 850-650-4688 or 850-650-4689. $$ l d Pepito’s ★ Mexican. Voted Best Mexican on the Emerald Coast, locals love Pepito’s for its authentic Mexican cuisine and mouthwatering margaritas. Happy Hour specials all day Mondays, including small rocks margaritas and all beer and well drinks for $1.99. Open daily 11 a.m.– 10 p.m. 757 E. Hwy. 98, 850-650-7734. $$ l d Poppy’s Crazy Lobster Seafood. Relax with us on the beautiful Destin Harbor, and enjoy the best seafood in town. Toast

BEST HIBACHI

18 Hibachi Tables Sushi Bar ~ Private Dining Happy Hour Specials 4–6

Sushi ~ Take Out Authentic Japanese Cuisine

850.351.1006

Located in the Village of Baytowne Wharf ™

850.650.4688 or 850.650.4689 34745 Emerald Coast Parkway / Destin

EmeraldCoastMagazine.com April–May 2014

dining the setting sun with a Crazy Lobster Cooler or any number of fun cocktails. Open daily at 11 a.m. HarborWalk Village, 850-424-6744. $$ l d Ruth’s Chris Steak House ★ Steak and Seafood. New Orleans-inspired appetizers, desserts and award-winning wines. Mon–Sat 5:30–10 p.m., Sun 5:30–9 p.m. Silver Shells Resort. 1500 Emerald Coast Pkwy., 850-337-5108. $$$ d Sarah k’s gourmet ★ Gourmet Takeout. Chef-crafted, ready-toheat cuisine. Jumbo lump crab cakes and fresh chicken salad are the house specialties. Open at 11 a.m. 34940 Hwy. 98, 850-269-0044. $ l d Tuscany Italian Bistro Italian. Northern Italian cuisine featuring choice meats, fresh seafood and garden vegetables. Tues– Sun 4 p.m.–close. 36178 Emerald Coast Pkwy., 850-650-2451. $$ d

Fort Walton Beach Aegean Restaurant ★

Greek. Savor the flavors of the Mediterranean at this authentic Greek restaurant. Mon–Sat 10:30 a.m.–8:30 p.m. 1259 Eglin Pkwy., Shalimar, 850-613-6120. $$ l d Benjarong Thai Cuisine & BBQ Thai and Barbecue. Barbecue, chicken, ribs, steak and spicy Thai food. Lunch and dinner Mon–Sat 11 a.m.–9 p.m. 251 Mary Esther Blvd., 850-362-0290. $$ l d

Ali's Bistro American. Seafood, steak, pasta, chicken, veal, sandwiches and salads in a casually cool modern space. Tue–Sun 11 a.m.–9 p.m. 171 Brooks St., 850-226-4708. $$ l d The Black Pearl Steak and Seafood. Dig into some coconut shrimp and a juicy steak while enjoying a lovely view of the Gulf. Located in The Boardwalk on Okaloosa Island. Open daily 4 p.m. 1450 Miracle Strip Pkwy., 850-833-3016. $$ d Buffalo’s Reef Famous Wings ★ American. This restaurant is famous for hot wings and cold beer. Ask about the daily specials. Tue–Sat open at 10:30 a.m., Sun open at noon. 116 Eglin Pkwy., 850-243-9463. $ l d Clemenza’s Uptown ★ Italian. This family-owned restaurant features authentic Italian cuisine and a full bar. Lunch: Mon–Fri 11 a.m.–2 p.m., Dinner: Mon–Fri 5–9 p.m., Sat 5–9:30 p.m. Closed Sun. 75 Eglin Pkwy., 850-243-0707. $$ B l d Helen Back Pizza. The world’s finest hand-tossed pizza and cold beer in a sports bar atmosphere. Locations in Pensacola, Navarre, Crestview and Valparaiso. Open daily 11 a.m.–4 a.m. 114 Amberjack Dr., 850-796-1451. $ l d High Tide Seafood. Delicious seafood dishes, award-winning gumbo and fresh Apalachicola oysters served for lunch and dinner. Mon–Sat 11 a.m.–9:30 p.m. 1203 Miracle Strip Pkwy., 850-244-2624. $ Magnolia Grill Steak, Seafood and Italian. Steak, seafood, pasta,

soups, salads and desserts. Lunch Mon–Fri 11 a.m.– 2 p.m. Dinner Mon–Sat, open at 5 p.m. Closed Sun. 157 SE Brooks St., 850-302-0266. $$ l d Mama Clemenza’s European Breakfast ★ European. This award-winning breakfast is culinary perfection. Enjoy a diverse menu of authentic old world family recipes. Sat 8 a.m.– noon, Sun 8 a.m.–1 p.m. Clemenza’s Uptown, 75 Eglin Pkwy. 850-243-0707. $$ B Old Bay Steamer Seafood. Fresh, steamed and grilled seafood served in a lively atmosphere. Dinner served daily from 4 p.m. No reservations. 102 Santa Rosa Blvd., 850-664-2795. $$$ d Pandora’s Steak and Seafood. Early evening specials weekdays 5–6 p.m. Happy Hour weekdays 5–7 p.m. Weekdays 5–10 p.m. Weekends 5–11 p.m., 1226 Santa Rosa Blvd., 850-244-8669. $$$ d Pranzo Italian Ristorante Italian. The Montalto family has been serving classic and contemporary Italian cuisine in Fort Walton Beach for nearly 30 years. Dinner Mon–Sat, 5 p.m. 1222 Santa Rosa Blvd., 850-244-9955. $ d Sealand Steak and Seafood. Serving American cuisine as well as Thai offerings in a homey atmosphere. Lunch Sun 11 a.m. until. Dinner Tues–Sat from 4:30 p.m. 47 SE Miracle Strip Pkwy., 850-244-0044. $$$ B d

Grayton Beach

Another Broken Egg café ★ Breakfast. Breakfast all day, plus sandwiches, patty melts, specials, soups, salads and desserts. Open

BEST WINGS

2008-Best Italian 2009-Best Pizza 2010-Best Pizza, Best Chef 2011-Best Pizza, Best Italian & Best Chef 2012-Best Italian

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7:30 a.m.–2 p.m. Closed Mondays. (Open Memorial and Labor days.) 51 Grayton Uptown Cir., 850-231-7835. $ B Pandora’s Steak and Seafood. Warm, traditional steakhouse with early evening specials. Weekdays 5–10 p.m. Weekends 5–11 p.m. 63 DeFuniak St., 850-231-4102. $$ d Picolo’s restaurant Seafood. Dine on delicious fresh seafood while listening to live music. Open daily 11 a.m.–3 p.m. and 5–10 p.m. 70 Hotz Ave., 850-231-1008. $$ l d Red Bar ★ American. A favorite among locals, visitors and celebrities and a must-visit when in Grayton Beach. Kick back on the funky furniture and listen to live music while enjoying great food and cocktails — especially the award-winning Bloody Mary. Breakfast 7–10:30 a.m., Lunch 11 a.m.–3 p.m., Dinner 5–10 p.m. Bar open 11 a.m.–11 p.m., Fri–Sat 11 a.m.–midnight. Cash or check only, no credit cards. 70 Hotz Ave., 850-231-1008. $$ B l d Trattoria Borago Italian. Enjoy a balsamic-laced pork tenderloin or pan-seared grouper from the open kitchen. Open 6 p.m. daily. 80 E. Hwy. 30A, Grayton Beach, 850-231-9167. $$ d

Miramar Beach

Aegean Restaurant ★ Greek. Sip an ouzo at the beautiful stone bar before savoring the flavors of the Mediterranean at this authentic Greek restaurant. Breakfast 8–11 a.m., Lunch 11 a.m.–4 p.m., Dinner 4–9 p.m. 11225 Emerald Coast Pkwy., 850-460-2728. $$ B l d

Agave Azul Mexican Cuisine Mexican. We are bringing the real taste of Mexico to The Village of Baytowne Wharf in Sandestin. Come join us for Happy Hour from 3:45–7 p.m. and enjoy the sunset on the back deck. Let us show you what Mexico is all about. Open daily 11 a.m.–2 a.m. 111 Cannery Lane, The Village of Baytowne Wharf at Sandestin, 850-424-5177. $$ l d Another Broken Egg Café ★ Breakfast. Award-winning breakfast all day, plus sandwiches, patty melts, specials, soups, salads and desserts. Open daily from 7 a.m.–3 p.m. Two Sandestin locations: On the Bay (next to the LeCiel at Sandestin) and in The Village of Baytowne Wharf at Sandestin, 850-622-2050. $ B (in the Village) Bistro Bijoux ★ Steak and Seafood. Coastal cuisine with a New Orleans flair. Fresh seafood daily. Featuring our signature dish — “Black Skillet” filet mignon topped with a tempura-fried lobster tail. Open daily 5–10 p.m. Village of Baytowne Wharf, 850-622-0760. $$$ d Cabana Café American. A casual poolside restaurant serving made-to-order salads, savory soups and chowders, deli-style sandwiches (with homemade bread!), savory build-your-own burgers and quesadillas, stone-fired pizza, pasta and more. Sunday brunch. Full bar. Open 11 a.m.– 2 a.m. Mon–Sat and Sundays from 9 a.m.– 2 a.m. Happy Hour 11 a.m.–7 p.m. Karaoke and live entertainment. Located on the ground floor of Ariel Dunes in Seascape Resort, 112 Seascape Drive. Come see us in our new location inside Hurricane Lanes in Destin. Ask about the locals discount. 850-424-3574. $$ l d Cantina Laredo ★ Mexican. Boasting a contemporary décor and

fiery flavor, the new addition to Grand Boulevard offers gourmet twists on Mexican favorites. Save room for dessert, and check out the Sunday brunch. Sun–Thu 11 a.m.–10 p.m., Fri–Sat 11 a.m.– 11 p.m. 585 Grand Blvd., 850-654-5649. $$ B l d Carrabba’s italian grill Italian. Flavorful dishes, including calamari, chicken Marsala, fresh fish, seafood and grilled steaks. Open Sun 11 a.m.–10 p.m., Mon–Thu 4–10:30 p.m., Fri–Sat 4–11:30 p.m. 10562 W. Hwy. 98, 850-837-1140. $$ d Fat Clemenza’s ★ Italian. Feel like part of the family as you enjoy homemade classical Italian cuisine. Lunch Mon–Fri 11 a.m.–2 p.m. Dinner Mon–Wed 5–9:30 p.m., Thu–Sat 5–10 p.m. Holiday Plaza/Hwy. 98, 850-650-5980. $$ l d Elephant Walk American. Enjoy attentive service, excellent continental cuisine, a dynamic wine list and panoramic views of the Gulf. Serving lunch seasonally and dinner daily 5–10 p.m. Beachside at Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort, 9300 Emerald Coast Pkwy. W., 850-267-4800. $$$ l d Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar ★ Steak and More. This award-winning restaurant offers prime steaks, chops, chicken, seafood, fresh salads and a variety of unique sides and desserts served in a comfortable but elegant atmosphere. Featuring 100 wines by the glass. Open Mon–Thu 5–10 p.m., Fri–Sat 5–11 p.m., Sun 4–9 p.m. 600 Grand Blvd., 850-269-0830. $$ d John Wehner’s Village Door Bayfront Restaurant & Nightclub ★ American. Rock your evening with dinner and dancing on the best dance floor on the Emerald Coast. Village Door Smokehouse with seating on

Best Bourbon and Scotch Bar on the Emerald Coast!

Italian - Creole - French Cuisine 7 Town Center Loop • Santa Rosa Beach, FL 850.267.9020 • messinason30a.com EmeraldCoastMagazine.com April–May 2014

deck overlooking the bay serving barbecue and seafood daily 5–9 p.m. The Villageof Baytowne Wharf, 126 Fisherman’s Cove. 850-502-4590. $ d Lin’s Asian Cuisine Asian. Chef Qun Lin whips up steaming portions of your favorite Chinese and Southeast Asian dishes. Open Mon–Thu 10:30 a.m.–9 p.m., Fri–Sat 10:30 a.m.–9:30 p.m., Sun noon–9 p.m. 130 Scenic Gulf Dr., Suite 5B, 850-424-5888. $ l d Marina Bar and Grill American. Seafood, po-boys, burgers, salads overlooking the Baytowne Marina and Choctawhatchee Bay. You catch ’em we cook ’em service. Open daily 11 a.m.–7 p.m., Breakfast Sat– Sun 8–11 a.m. Kitchen closed Mon–Tue. Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort, 9300 Emerald Coast Pkwy. W., 850-267-7778. $ B l d Marlin Grill ★ Steak and Seafood. Fresh seafood, steaks, salads and appetizers served inside or outside. Open nightly at 5 p.m. Village of Baytowne Wharf, 850-351-1990. $$$ l d

Pepito’s ★ Mexican. Voted Best Mexican on the Emerald Coast. Authentic Mexican cuisine, delicious margaritas and weekly specials. Open daily 11 a.m.– 10 p.m. 11225 Hwy 98, 850-269-7788. $$ l d Poppy’s Seafood Factory Seafood. Enjoy fresh seafood, steak and poultry dishes with a view of the bay. Open 11 a.m.–9 p.m. daily. Village of Baytowne Wharf, 850-351-1996. $$$ l d Royal Orchid Thai. Escape to Thailand at this authentic Thai restaurant. Sink into a traditional sunken table surrounded by pillows or dine American style at a table or booth. Thu–Tue 11 a.m.–9:30 p.m. Closed Wed. 11275 Emerald Coast Pkwy., 850-650-2555. $$ l d Rum Runners American. Caribbean/coastal/Mediterranean menu with sandwiches, seafood, steaks, chicken and pasta. Open daily for lunch and dinner. Village of Baytowne Wharf, 850-267-8117. $$ l d Seagar’s Prime Steaks and Seafood ★ Steak and Seafood. Premium steak, fresh seafood and caviar. Open 6 p.m. daily. Hilton Sandestin. 4000 S. Sandestin Blvd., 850-622-1500. $$$ d

Mitchell’s Fish Market Seafood. Chef-driven dishes such as Cedar Roasted Atlantic Salmon or Hoisin-Glazed Yellow Fin Tuna. Lunch Mon–Sat 11 a.m.–4 p.m., Sun 11 a.m.–3 p.m., Dinner Mon–Thu 4–10 p.m., Fri–Sat 4–11 p.m., Sun 3–9 p.m. Grand Boulevard Sandestin, 850-650-2484. $$ l d

Tommy Bahama’s Restaurant & Bar ★ Caribbean. Get a taste of the islands with jerk spices, fresh fish and the best desserts on the coast as voted by readers of Emerald Coast Magazine. Open Sun–Thu 11 a.m.–11 p.m. Fri–Sat 11 a.m.–midnight. 525 Grand Blvd., 850-654-1743. $$ l d

P.F. Chang’s China Bistro ★ Asian. Sample crunchy lettuce wraps or Chinese favorites like Kung Pao Chicken in a chic atmosphere. Open Sun–Thu 11 a.m.–10 p.m., Fri–Sat 11 a.m.–11 p.m. 10640 Grand Blvd., 850-269-1806. $$ l d

Vin’Tij Wine Boutique & Bistro American. Traditional favorites and unique house dishes. Open daily 11 a.m.–midnight. 10859 W. Emerald Coast Pkwy., Suite 103, 850-650-9820. $ld

on the menu

Niceville/Valparaiso

Compass Rose Restaurant and Bar Caribbean. Waterfront dining overlooking Tom’s Bayou. The cuisine is coastal with a CaribbeanWest Indies flair. Enjoy Happy Hour, daily specials and Sunday brunch. Tue–Thur 11 a.m.–9 p.m.,Fri 11 a.m.–10 p.m., Sat 4–10 p.m., Sun 10 a.m.–3 p.m. 303 Glen Ave., 850-389-2125. $$ l d One 20 A Modern Bistro ★ American. Modern American cuisine specializing in seafood, steaks and local fresh produce. Lunch Tue– Fri 11 a.m.–3 p.m. Dinner Tue–Sat 5–9 p.m., Brunch Sun 11 a.m.–3 p.m. Closed Monday. 120 Partin Drive North, Niceville, 850-729-2120. $$ B l d Pepitos ★ Mexican. Locals love the authentic Mexican cuisine, margaritas and all-day Monday Happy Hour special. Open daily 11 a.m.–10 p.m. 4585 E Hwy 20, Suite 100, Niceville, 850-279-4949. $$ l d TradeWinds Italian. A cozy favorite among locals serving heaping portions from old family recipes. Enjoy a number of pasta variations as well as seafood, chicken, veal, steak and thin crust pizza. Expansive wine and beer list. Reservations required. Open Tue–Sat 5 p.m. 205 Government St., 850-678-8299. $$ d

Santa Rosa Beach

98 Bar-B-Que Barbecue. Four generations have perfected Southern barbecue served with your favorite sides. Lunch and dinner, 11 a.m.–8 p.m. Mon–Sat. 5008 W. Hwy. 98., 850-622-0679. $ l d Basmati’s Asian Cuisine & Sushi Asian. Asian dishes and full sushi bar. Open 4 p.m. daily. 3295 W. Hwy. 30A, 850-267-3028. $$ d

It’s spring! Stop hibernating, say goodbye to the winter blues and wake up your appetite with these delicious tasting dishes found on menus around the Emerald Coast. Light Bite Thai Elephant, Miramar Beach

They say elephants have great memories. Anything enjoyed at Thai Elephant will not be long forgotten. The Tom Yum Gai soup is sure to cure anything that ails you. This savory hot and sour soup is a beautiful blend of chicken, mushrooms, lemon grass, kaffir lime leaves, lime juice, black chili paste and cilantro. Here’s to making yummy memories! $8.95

Lunch Ali’s Bistro, Fort Walton Beach

Louisiana Lagniappe’s Grouper Pontchartrain

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You can easily transport yourself to the Mediterranean with the pizza by the same name at Ali’s Bistro. This rendition is a thin-

crusted, stone-baked pie with tomato sauce and mozzarella cheese topped with fresh spinach, artichokes, black olives, feta cheese and sliced tomatoes. The 12-inch pie is $16.95.

Dinner Louisiana Lagniappe, Destin

One of our favorite hotels in New Orleans is the storied Pontchartrain on St. Charles Avenue. We love a stroll down memory lane, so we decided to give Louisiana Lagniappe’s Grouper Pontchartrain a try. Pan sautéed fresh Gulf Grouper is topped with fried jumbo softshell crab, honey roasted nuts and Hollandaise sauce. Yes, we’d say this dish, like the restaurant name, has a little something extra going for it. $33

Photo By Scott Holstein

dining

Café Tango American. Seafood, poultry and pasta served with specialty sauces.Homemade desserts. Open Tue–Sun 5–10 p.m. 14 Vicki St., 850-267-0054. $$$ d Fish Out of Water Restaurant Continental. Southern coastal cuisine with an Asian flair: tuna, crab cakes, shrimp and scallops. 5:30–10 p.m. daily. Located in the WaterColor Inn, 850-534-5050. $$$ d Louis Louis American. The only thing that isn’t over the top at Louis Louis is the menu pricing. The Moulin Rouge-inspired interior décor is outrageously wonderful. Dine outside or in. The menu has six tasty items, including crab cakes, panned chicken, blackened fish and a few pastas. Mon–Sun 5–10 p.m. 35 Mussett Bayou Rd., 850-267-1500. $ d The Marigny Creole. Enjoy authentic New Orleans-style cooking inside at linen covered tables or poolside on the covered patio lounge. Serving lunch and dinner daily 11 a.m.– 9 p.m. Enjoy the bar until midnight. 306 Bald Eagle Drive, 850-622-9101. $ l d VKI Japanese Steak House & Sushi Bar Asian. Using the freshest ingredients this Japanese gem serves up tasty Hibachi-style stir-fry meals of steak, seafood and chicken prepared at your table as well as artfully prepared sashimi and sushi rolls. Open daily. Lunch 11 a.m.–3 p.m., Dinner 4:30–9:30 p.m. 4552 Highway 98, Santa Rosa Beach, 850-267-2555. $$ l d Vue on 30a American. Seafood, beef, poultry, lamb, veal, pastas, soups and bisques. Open Tues–Fri 11 a.m.–2:30 p.m., Wed–Sat 5–9 p.m. 4801 W. Hwy. 30A, 850-267-2305. $$ l d

Seaside & Seagrove Beach

723 Whiskey Bravo American. Steak, seafood and casual “beachy” bites. Relax on the rooftop bar with Gulf view. Open daily from 11 a.m. Brunch on Sundays. 3031 Scenic Highway 30A, 850-213-0015. $$ l d Angelina’s Pizza & Pasta Italian. Authentic homemade pizza pie and Italian dishes in a casual atmosphere. Lunch and dinner daily: 11 a.m.–9:30 p.m. 4005 E. Hwy. 30A, 850-231-2500. $ l d Bud & Alley’s Restaurant American. A pioneer of farm- and sea-to-table dining serving fresh seafood, steak and vegetarian dishes. Famous bell ringing tradition with Happy Hour specials daily at sunset overlooking the Gulf. Open 11:30 a.m. Mon–Fri. Roof bar open 11:30 p.m.–2 a.m. in summer. 2236 E. Hwy. 30A, 850-231-5900. $$$ l d

CALLING ALL REALTORS AND BROKERS!

Café Thirty-A Seafood. Seafood, lamb, duck, filet mignon and pizza. Open daily 5 p.m. 3899 E. Hwy. 30A, 850-231-2166. $$ d Crush American. Crush features an extensive wine menu, sushi and small plates. Open daily for lunch and dinner, noon–10 p.m. 25 Central Sq., 850-468-0703. $$ l d Great SOuthern Café Southern. Jim Shirley serves up Southern comfort food with a twist. Open daily for breakfast 8–11 a.m., lunch 11 a.m.–4 p.m., dinner 4–11:30 p.m. 83 Central Sq., 850-231-7327. $$ B l d La Botana Tapas. Small plates of Latin-inspired cuisine served in a casual but elegant atmosphere. Wine bar. Lunch and dinner Mon–Fri 4–11 p.m., Sat–Sun 11 a.m.–11 p.m. 4281 E. Hwy. 30A, 850-231-0716. $$ l d La Cocina Mexican Grill & Bar Mexican. Traditional Tex-Mex with a coastal twist. Open daily 11 a.m.–3 p.m. and 5–9 p.m. Bar open until 10 p.m. 10343 E. Hwy. 30A, 850-231-4021. $$ l d Old Florida Fish House and Bar Seafood. Rustic seafood restaurant featuring a new take on old seafood favorites. Full bar. Dinner daily 5 p.m. 5235 Hwy. 30A, 850-534-3045. $$ d V Seagrove Restaurant Seafood. Chef David Cunningham serves up fresh seafood and produce that is locally sourced in a resort casual atmosphere. Open Tue–Sat at 6 p.m. Closed Sundays. 2743 E. County Highway 30A, Seagrove, 850-468-0973. $$$ d

Put your property in front of our upscale audience on emeraldcoastmagazine.com

Seagrove Village Market Café Steak and Seafood. Enjoy surf-and-turf and a glass of wine, then shop for gifts and souvenirs in the adjacent gift shop. Open 10:30 a.m.–8:30 p.m. daily. 3004 S. County Rd. 395, 850-231-5736. $$ l d ec

Visit emeraldcoastmagazine.com/Deal-Estate or call McKenzie Burleigh at 850-878-0554. EmeraldCoastMagazine.com April–May 2014

the last word

Minutes of Thunder

A Run ’Round the Racetrack and Other Moments of Sheer Terror By Rosanne Dunkelberger

’m not a thrill-seeker by nature, but somehow the thrills just seem to find me. I was reading a Facebook post from a guy who asked his friends to name all the bones they had broken in their lives. It was a short list for me. One. My pinky. When I was 16. Playing tetherball. I do not attribute this to luck (well, maybe a little bit). I make it my business to stay away from activities that have a high likelihood of trauma, injury or death. I tend to drive the speed limit, only drink too much at home and be tucked into my bed before midnight. I’m not up for extreme sports and, in fact, tend to avoid the not-so-extreme ones too. I never tug on Superman’s cape, spit into the wind or mess with Jim.

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So why was I, on a sunny Friday morning in July, preparing to take a 145-mile-per-hour joyride in a 600-horsepower NASCAR vehicle at the Walt Disney World Speedway? Why, indeed? Don’t get me wrong; driving around a racetrack sounds fun and exciting and I’m all for it. Hitting a concrete wall at top speed? Not so much. Never skydived (never will), but the principle is pretty much the same. I’d be happy to soar though the air all day; it’s that reconnection with Planet Earth I find alarming. As I was jump-suiting up for my three turns around the mile-long tri-oval, memories welled up about a similar daredevil adventure I had a couple months earlier — along with their concomitant feelings of abject terror. After I finished the Adventures Unlimited zipling course, my perky, college

aged guide admitted he only gave me a “50-50” shot at finishing. Remembering back to that tree-top trauma kinda got my dander up. So when the racing opportunity presented itself, I had something to prove. That’s how I ended up at the Richard Petty Driving Experience in Orlando, suited, helmeted and neck-braced, doing my level best to cram myself through the passenger’s-side window of the 88 National Guard car for the $99 Ride Along. One could do the driving oneself in “experiences” lasting from eight ($449) to 50 ($2,500) laps, but I had never mastered the stick shift, so my lot was to ride shotgun with Dustin in the driver’s seat. I had just about time enough to get my souvenir photo taken and notice Dustin’s exceptional blue eyes before he dropped his visor, and we were off in a loud and rumbling burst of speed. It was all over in a flash. My most vivid memory is that my butt continued vibrating even after I had crammed it back out the window. But I didn’t have to remember, because I Move over could actually watch the dashDanika, Rosanne cam video back inside the gift Dunkelberger shop. I did a lot of grinning is becoming and “wheee”ing throughout pretty “racy.” the minute-and-a-half long video and, at the end, exhorted Dustin to pass the slowpoke self-driver ahead of us (he didn’t). My group — mostly ladies — insisted that Dustin get out of the car and pose for a photo with us. Off came the helmet and there he stood — a kid! An 18-year-old kid! I was in equal parts horrified that this guy was younger than my husband’s car, and amazed by his skills. What’s next? Who knows? Perhaps a little tetherball redemption. ec

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