Emerald Coast Magazine, June/July 2014

VOL. 15 NO. 3

THE EMER ALD COAST MAGA ZINE

GREAT GETAWAYS

From Mike Martin’s Seminoles to Local Diamond All-Stars, our Boys (and Girls) of Summer Are at the Top of Their Game EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM JUNE-JULY 2014

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7 GREAT FLORIDA GETAWAYS

TECH & ART AT DIGITAL GRAFFITI

2014 ‘BEST OF THE EMERALD COAST’ BALLOT

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

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

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The Emerald Coast Magazine June + July 2014

contents

FEATURES

64 Meet Mike Martin

Catching up on 35 years of coaching FSU baseball

Havana Beach Bar & Grill was inspired by Ernest Hemingway’s laid back philosophy of living well.

73

Great Florida Getaways

Seven sensational stay-cation and drive-to destinations around the Sunshine State

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM June–July 2014

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8 June–July 2014

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM

Not just a letter encompassing a closed circle.

A simple line or squiggle presents a way in or out.

A solution. Find a way.

What’s your Q? - S uzy

T I L E L I G H T I N G J E W E L R Y

17-2 UPTOWNE GRAY TON CIRCLE, SANTA ROSA BEACH , FL 324 59 850. 213 .0000 Q-TILE .COM

contents in the e.c.

21 Snapshot Clowning around with Zak Asiago.

22 Made in the EC We’re sweet on Southern Craft Creamery.

26 What’s Haute The ’80s are back — bigger and better than before.

29 Personality The sky’s the limit with this fearless restaurateur.

32 Editor’s Choice Tips on dad and daughter time for Father’s Day. 37 Scene Have you heard the latest about the Emerald Coast?

happenings 41 Spotlight Digital Graffiti: where technology, art and architecture merge and converge.

42 Culture Seaside’s Academic Village takes us back to school.

55 Social Studies Look who we’ve “scene” lately.

the good life 89 Eudaimonia The garden of Eden.

97 Gardening Roses are red … and easy to grow.

22

105 Habitat The “smart” places to go to get your home wired up and fired up.

108 Flavor Dishing up the restaurant recipes you crave.

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

117 A Taste For … Raw food 118 On the Menu The Marigny’s hot, juicy New Orleans-style roast beef poor boy!

A WORD WITH YOU 14 From the Publisher 16 Editor’s Note 19 EC Online 122 The Last Word

BEST of the

Emerald Coast CAST YOUR VOTE!

Locals will tell you the quality of life here is unlike any other, because of the people who give this little patch of Florida personality plus. They are our earnest, hardworking friends, family and neighbors who pour their heart and souls into all they do — including the delicious restaurants and service-centric shops they own and operate, and the exceptional professional services they dutifully provide to each of us on a daily basis.

With so many well-respected service providers and memorable places to dine, shop and play all along the Emerald Coast, choosing just one “BEST” OF THE EMERALD COAST business for each category is indeed a challenge. So, why not call in the experts?

SPECIAL SECTIONS

84 Top Salon Recap 90 Deal Estate 98 Best of Ballot

42 10 June–July 2014

For the past 12 years our EC gurus have not steered us wrong, so once again, we are happy to present the Best of the Emerald Coast Ballot to you, our loyal EC magazine readers. It's time for you to be the judge and cast your vote.

An independent firm will tally the votes, and the winners will be featured in the October/November 2013 issue of EC Magazine. You will have a chance to toast the winners and support the Junior League of the Emerald Coast, at the annual Best of the Emerald Coast celebration at Grand Boulevard on SATURDAY, OCT. 25 AT 6-9 P.M.

98 June–July 2014

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM

26 EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM

Follow us @emeraldcoastmag

Like us at facebook.com/emeraldcoast

PHOTOS BY JASON WALLIS (22) AND MARI DARR~WELCH (42) AND COURTESY AND WILLOW BOUTIQUE IN ROSEMARY BEACH AND SEASIDE (26)

48 Calendar It’s summer! Time for festive, family-friendly events.

© D. YURMAN 2014

13390 HWY 98 W. • DESTIN, FLORIDA 850.650.2262

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM June–July 2014

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Teena d’Haven

VOL. 15, NO. 3 JUNE–JULY 2014 THE EMERALD COAST MAGAZINE

PRESIDENT/PUBLISHER

BOUTIQUE

BRIAN E. ROWLAND

EDITORIAL DIRECTOR OF EDITORIAL SERVICES Linda Kleindienst EDITOR Zandra Wolfgram STAFF WRITER Jason Dehart EDITORIAL COORDINATOR Chay D. Baxley CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Chay D. Baxley, Laura Bradley, Liesel Schmidt, Yvonne Darling, Jason Dehart, Wendy O. Dixon, Rosanne Dunkelberger, Lee Gordon, Jack Macaleavy, Mikaela McShane, Thomas J. Monigan, Audrey Post, Megan Williams, Zandra Wolfgram EDITORIAL INTERNS Mikaela McShane, Katie Mueller, Megan Williams PRODUCTION SPECIALIST Melinda Lanigan

CREATIVE CREATIVE DIRECTOR Lawrence Davidson PRODUCTION MANAGER/ NETWORK ADMINISTRATOR Daniel Vitter ASSISTANT CREATIVE DIRECTOR Saige Roberts EDITORIAL DESIGNER Jennifer Ekrut PUBLICATION DESIGNERS Felix Oliha, Shruti Shah ADVERTISING DESIGNERS Jillian Fry, Rebecca Sumerall STAFF PHOTOGRAPHERS Scott Holstein, Matt Burke CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Tommy Crow, Lawrence Davidson, Tristin Kroening, Joe Maloney, Rhonda Murray, Kay Phelan, Pure 7 Studios, Howard Robinson, Jason Wallis, Mari Darr~Welch, Zandra Wolfgram, Allison Yii

SALES AND MARKETING MARKETING AND SALES MANAGER McKenzie Burleigh

AD SERVICES COORDINATOR Lisa Sostre SALES EXECUTIVES Rhonda Lynn Murray, Darla Harrison, Tracy Mulligan, Chris St. John, Paula Sconiers, Alice Watts, Drew Gregg Westling MARKETING AND SALES ASSISTANT Christie Green

OPERATIONS ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES MANAGER Melissa Tease EVENTS AND MEDIA COORDINATOR Lynda Belcher CLIENT PROJECTS COORDINATOR Kerri Bryan STAFF ACCOUNTANT Josh Faulds ACCOUNTING ASSISTANT Tabby Hamilton RECEPTIONIST Tristin Kroening

WEB SOCIAL MEDIA/SYSTEMS MANAGEMENT SPECIALIST Carlin Trammel DIGITAL SERVICES COORDINATOR Lentaya Gibson DIGITAL SERVICES PRODUCER Chelsea Moore EMERALD COAST MAGAZINE emeraldcoastmagazine.com facebook.com/emeraldcoast twitter.com/emeraldcoastmag instagram.com/emeraldcoastmag pinterest.com/emeraldcoastmag youtube.com/user/emeraldcoastmag ROWLAND PUBLISHING rowlandpublishing.com

SUBSCRIPTIONS 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.

DIRECTOR OF NEW BUSINESS Daniel Parisi

EDITORIAL OFFICE 1932 Miccosukee Road, Tallahassee, FL, 32308

New location between Destin and Sandestin 850.269.0781 12 June–July 2014

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

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM June–July 2014

13

from the publisher Not Your Grandma’s Junior League

I have, for the past year or so, had the opportunity to serve as a community advisor to the Junior League of Tallahassee (JLT). When asked to participate, I had no concept of what my role would be or what benefit my observations or comments could provide to the organization.

At first, it was attending a Q&A session with other advisors. Several JLT members in leadership roles asked us to be candid and transparent with our feedback. The one question that sticks with me is what was my, and the advisory committee’s, perception of the League.

The general responses were mixed community perceptions based on what demographic being asked. Here are a few examples: ▪ An elitist social class of busybody Southern ladies.

▪ Rich ladies who wear sweaters and pearls, have parties and go out to lunch a lot.

▪ An extension of college sorority life.

▪ And many have no perception of who Junior Leaguers are or what they do.

None of these descriptions casts a positive light on this organization and, today, all of these perceptions are stuck in the era of black-and-while television reception of the ’50s.

Through Tallahassee Magazine, EC Magazine and our 850 regional business magazine, I have had numerous opportunities to interact with the Junior League organization and individuals in Tallahassee and Destin over the past two decades and can therefore refute all of these archaic perceptions.

Members of the Junior League, from my real-time experience, are astute business, community and family leaders who are poised and passionate about everything they do. The organization provides a forum that brings like minds together and serves multiple functions: ▪ As an opportunity for individuals to develop their interpersonal skills to become the next generation of community and business leaders.

▪ To provide an organization that contributes to the community and individuals in need.

▪ To develop a network of friends and associates that will help one another and mentor young women embarking upon marriage and motherhood.

In the Destin area, the Junior League of the Emerald Coast is the sole benefactor of our Best of the Emerald Coast event, which draws more than 3,500 people on a fall evening and raises $55,000 — which goes right back into the community. What the League has is really a branding issue. Beginning this year, the Junior League of Tallahassee will embark upon a branding/rebranding campaign, and Rowland Publishing plans to cover it all the way through the process. This summer, 850 — ­ The Business Magazine of Northwest Florida is planning a feature story on branding and rebranding and plans to bring the fundamental element of this process to our business readership, showcasing three local entities who are doing so — Florida State University, the nonprofit Junior League of Tallahassee and the small business AMWAT Moving. In addition, over the following 12 to 18 months, we plan to provide readers updates on the progress and eventual results.

With regard to the League … my goal is to dispel all misperceptions about an organization that does so much more for our community and its people than you might know.

It’s a new century, and it’s a new generation of women taking the Junior League to a new level of awareness, accomplishment and success.

on the cover

Aja Brechtel and Drew Dungan are both Niceville High School seniors (class of 2014) whose attitudes in all they throw themselves into are “pitch” perfect.

We chart their staggering stats along with four other amazing EC All-Star players beginning on page 70.

Photography by Pure 7 Studios

— BRIAN ROWLAND BROWLAND@ROWLANDPUBLISHING.COM From Mike Martin’s Seminoles to Local Diamond All-Stars, our Boys (and Girls) of Summer are at the Top of Their Game

1 February–March 2014

14 June–July 2014

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM

7 GREAT FLORIDA GETAWAYS

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM

TECH & ART AT DIGITAL GRAFFITI

2014 ‘BEST OF THE EMERALD COAST’ BALLOT

PHOTO BY SCOTT HOLSTEIN

THE EMER ALD COAST MAGA ZINE

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editor’s note editor’s picks It’s cheesy, but I love Dr. Seuss’ book “Oh, the Places You’ll Go.” You know, the one that everyone gives at going away parties to inspire you to bravely navigate life’s uncertain road?

I have made peace with most “roads” not taken in my life, but I do have regrets about not travelling as much as I could have. They say, “Life is what happens when you make other plans.” Well, in my book life definitely is better when it includes travel plans. Luckily, this is a chagrin I can still try to turn around.

My role as editor has enabled me to travel to amazing places near and far. A few of the fabulous Florida destinations — Tallahassee, Navarre and St. Augustine — I have been fortunate enough to discover or rediscover, as the case may be, are featured in this issue. And for that I am very grateful.

For me, travel adventures have nothing to do with the level of creature comforts, a cache address or physical feats you may accomplish — though any “first” has a way of putting a pin in a place on your personal life map. Travel memories are like lovely classic films you can replay and enjoy again and again at any time. I can remember back to the first time I mountain biked through a canopy of trees in Tallahassee, tried my hand at making cheese in Ann Arbor or hunted for truffles in Croatia — yes, this one may be out there, but I definitely hope there is a second time! For me, travel is all about discovering something wonderful (and hopefully many somethings) anywhere you go. I am convinced every place is capable of having a sense of place — you just have to find it.

I love going pretty much anywhere, and I regret only the places I haven’t been. Like most things worth doing in life, when it comes to travel “almost” does not count.

I cancelled a trip to Australia a few years ago, and it still haunts me. I stayed home to work on a big first-time freelance project. Dr. Seuss advises, “… be sure when you step, step with care and great tact. And remember that life’s A Great Balancing Act.” It is, and some of us do need to work to live. Still, I’m more than pretty sure had I gone to Sydney I would not have regretted it. So, instead of adventures from the outback, I regret I didn’t listen to the good doctor and “get on my way!” I only have myself to blame for tens of thousands of lost Skymiles and pangs of remorse I feel when I watch “Nemo” with my kids.

Life is too short for travel regrets. And, though those big-eyed characters in Japanese animation will always freak me out, no one should have to munch Tums while watching a Disney movie. So, grab your adventurous spirit, and go some place very soon. I promise you won’t regret it.

And if in doubt, just follow the doctor’s orders: “You’re off to Great Places!

Today is your day!

Your mountain is waiting, So … get on your way!”

—Z ANDRA WOLFGRAM EDITOR@EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM

16 June–July 2014

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM

WHAT’S AT THE ROOT OF A BLONDE BOMB SHELL? Blondes will definitely have more fun in between appointments now. Rootflage is a cool new product created by Lucy Williamson O’Quinn — a cost-conscious blonde looking to save money on paying high salon prices to touch up her root regrowth. Made of natural ingredients, it is a powder formula that you dust onto your roots with a brush. One application instantly “lightens” the root area and covers gray growth until your next shampoo. There are three shades: Rootflage Light Blonde for light blonde highlights, Rootflage Cool Blonde for cool or beige toned highlights and Rootflage Warm Blonde for those with warm, caramel or yellowish toned blonde highlights.

Available for $24.95 at rootflage.com.

TIPS TO SUIT YOU For 36 years Sporty Lady has been suiting up real women in the latest trends to look as gorgeous as the Gulf itself. The expert team at Sporty Lady in Destin advises women to choose a swimsuit that works “for your lifestyle, family situation and comfort level.” In other words, the perfect swimsuit is one suited to you.

With more than 10,000 swimsuits by 50 designer brands, not to mention personalized consultations available at no extra charge, it’s no wonder Sporty Lady is a Best of the EC winner 10 years running. You can purchase a bathing suit anywhere, but a “Sporty Lady” hitting the beach has one up on everyone else — confidence. You go, Sporty girls!

PICK THIS ONE OFF YOUR BUCKET LIST If summertime has you dreaming of strawberry fields forever and finding your thrills on a blueberry hill, you’re in luck.

The Emerald Coast is simply bursting with berry farms. The only thing that could possibly make fresh blueberries and strawberries taste even better is when you pick them yourself. We recommend a farm known simply as John and Mary’s Berries at 5949 Dairy Road in Baker. Call ahead at (850) 537-0340 to be sure there are plenty of berries left for picking.

Expect to pay about a buck and a half a pound. Have fun filling your bucket and then checking it off of your summer to-do “bucket” list.

PHOTOS BY ALLISON YII (WOLFGRAM) AND COURTESY OF ROOTFLAGE

Get Going to the Places You’ll Go

LOVE YOUR STYLE

850.837.5565 Located across from Destin Commons, next to Publix.

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM June–July 2014

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850.231.3113

Three great restaurants on the beach in Seaside, Florida

ing n i d te i r o v a f s 30A’ rs. a e y 8 2 r o f n o traditi

One legendary tradition.

Two waterfront locations. on the beach in Seaside, FL 850.231.5900 Grand Lagoon Panama City Beach 850.249.2111 budandalleys.com

850.231 .4781 18 June–July 2014

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EmeraldCoastMagazine.com Now Online

EXTRA CONTENT ONLINE ONLY

Relive the EC Top Salon night by visiting our online recap of the event. Peruse our gallery of photos and videos captured that stellar evening.

Up-to-the minute calendar of events. See what’s going on around the coast — or submit your own events. It’s free!

Flip Books. View this issue in a digital book format, and search our Archive section for past articles dating back to 2006.

Deal Estate.

Let’s make a deal. Find out why Regatta Bay is one of the most desirable communities on the EC. Get the scoop on all the commercial development news and check out the hottest active listings right here.

VIDEO!

» MEET MIKE MARTIN We hope you dig this behind-the-scenes video in the Seminoles’ dug out.

Best of the Emerald Coast, Then and Now While you’re filling out this year’s Best of the Emerald Coast ballot (page 98 of this issue) hop online and peruse our past winners for a look at Emerald Coast’s favorites throughout the years at emeraldcoastmagazine.com/ Best-of-the-Emerald-Coast.

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The Market Shops at Sandestin® 9375 Hwy 98 West, Suite 3 Destin, FL 32550 (850) 837-5466 Destin Commons 4134 Legendary Drive Destin, FL 32541 (850) 837-9124 HarborWalk Village 34 Harbor Blvd., Suite 134 Destin, FL 32541 (850) 424-5786 Stanford Station 758 West 23rd Street Panama City, FL 32405 (850) 785-6014 Sunset Lifestyles 16821 Panama City Beach Pkwy.

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20 June–July 2014

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in the e.c.

PEOPL E + ST Y LE + H Y P E

Snapshot

Walking Tall

For The Fun Connection entertainer Zak Asiago, the key to success is seeing the world through the eyes of a child.

“To a child, nothing is impossible,” says the multitalented man on stilts. His youthful voice belies his 44 years, enthusiastic as he convincingly explains his towering height to an inquisitive child. “Drink all your milk, eat all your vegetables and clean your room to get this tall,” he says, not missing a beat.

Although he has children charmed, his ultimate goal is to entertain everyone. As the owner of The Fun Connection, Zak has honed the art of entertaining, performing magic tricks, crafting elaborate balloon sculptures, painting faces and walking tall on stilts. If you imagine it, Zak’s mission is to make it happen. “Nothing is too strange. You can ask for a tap-dancing kangaroo on roller-skates, and I might be able to find it for you.” — Liesel Schmidt

Photo by Lawrence Davidson

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM June–July 2014

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made in the ec

Cream of the Crop Seaside Farmers Market Features Handcrafted Ice Cream

BY WENDY O. DIXON

T

here’s something special about sitting on a blanket under the sun, chasing the drips of a delicious scoop of cold, refreshing ice cream with your tongue, enjoying a pleasant sugar buzz — it’s what makes ice cream a summer favorite treat. Ice cream just makes you happy.

If you visit the Seaside Farmers Market, a group of local farmers and artisans that offers food and other products each Saturday morning in Seaside, stop by the Southern Craft Creamery truck and meet Lauren and Zach O’Bryan, co-owners of a dairy farm in Marianna, where they make fresh ice cream daily.

The family farm, run by Lauren O’Bryan’s family, has around 300 cows that graze on the green pasture and produce the milk for the ice cream. It was while the O’Bryans were traveling the country enjoying farm-to-table foods, that they realized there weren’t a lot of options in the Panhandle at the time. “Instead of complaining about it we decided we’d help with the movement, building relationships with other local farmers,” Lauren O’Bryan says. “We settled on ice cream, because it allowed us to explore our culinary interests. We love to cook. And it’s an approachable product.”

The O’Bryans wanted to get people interested in local dairy. “Some may not realize the value of local products,” Lauren says. Originally, her mom and dad had around 150 cows and have since doubled the herd.

Lauren and Zach O’Bryan standing in the vacant portion of the former peanut warehouse that now houses their creamery; (Left) Southern Craft Creamery caps their homemade frozen treats with a hand-stamped lid.

22 June–July 2014

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM

Photos by Jason Wallis

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM June–July 2014

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PHOTOS BY JASON WALLIS

made in the ec

24 June–July 2014

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM

Lauren’s sister and brother-in-law now work on the farm, too. They milk the cows twice a day — at 1 a.m. and 1 p.m., feed them twice a day and ensure their care. “My mom and sister know each cow, know their temperaments and can detect when one is nearing time to give birth,” she says. “They know their cows and what’s going on with the herd.”

After getting the fresh milk, Lauren and Zach take it to the ice cream plant, where they pasteurize the milk, assemble the mix and hand craft the flavors. “For the salty caramel, we take cane sugar and caramelize it and add vanilla and salt and pasteurize it together,” Lauren O’Bryan says. “Pasteurizing it gives a cooked custard taste. Some large companies try to emulate that taste, like Haagen-Dazs.”

The creamery offers the tried and true favorites — sweet cream, vanilla, salty caramel, milk chocolate and salty chocolate, as well as the exotic sounding turmeric ginger and bay laurel.

The creamery also features seasonal flavors as a way to feature other local farmers, including strawberry balsamic and satsuma ginger sorbet, and locally roasted coffee from Amavida Coffee and Tea for the coffee flavored ice cream.

Every Saturday morning, the O’Bryans load their pickup truck, equipped with a generator and freezer, and head to Seaside for the weekly Seaside Farmers Market, which is open from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. and is spread out on the town center lawn in Seaside. If you can’t make it to the market, Southern Craft Creamery ice cream is also sold in Modica Market and For the Health of It in Blue Mountain Beach and CK Feed & Supply in Rosemary Beach, as well as some local restaurants.

Life on a dairy farm is hard work, but Lauren feels privileged to have grown up surrounded by pastures and her beloved cows.

“It’s something that a lot people in my generation don’t get to do,” she says. “It’s a great way to grow up.” ec

(Opposite at top) Jersey, Holstein and mixed breed cows find shade in the field; (far left) Milking some of the 300 cows in the parlor; (above) Roasted Serrano chiles grown

by Zach’s dad, Mike O’Bryan, and mango chunks; (left) A completed pint of Mango-LimeChile ice cream.

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what’s haute Big ’80s Trends are Back

8 Fashion Fads on the Fast Track Back

BY ZANDRA WOLFGRAM

The ’80s didn’t know it, but they were big. The era that ushered in MTV, mullet cuts and Muppet babies made its mark on the fashion world, too.

And like the moonwalk that also debuted during this decade, big ’80s trends are back — and some are bigger and bolder than before.

Will you dare to step out of your fashion safe zone in a big way, or play it safe and stay home?

Leggings

Add an oversized offthe-shoulder crop top and you have a leg up on this trend.

FIND THIS TREND AT TODAY'S BOUTIQUE (Lysse Leggings)

26 June–July 2014

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM

Denim

Want a drug-free head trip?

Two words. Acid wash!

FIND THIS TREND AT TOMMY BAHAMA, ORVIS (Grand Boulevard), BUCKLE (Destin Commons), MERCANTILE (Seaside)

Members Only Jacket Just zip it! You know this is the only club worth joining.

FIND THIS TREND AT MEMBERSONLYJACKET.COM AND TARGET (Mens New for Spring '14 Iconic Racer Jacket)

Ray-Bans

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personality

Time to Fly Exploring the Wild Blue Yonder Keeps Pilot Emil Pagliari Young at Heart

BY YVONNE DARLING

M

ost people who settle in the beach towns of Northwest Florida after a successful career are content to fish, soak up the sun or take up bird-watching. Not Emil Pagliari.

In addition to owning and running a full-service waterfront restaurant and the adjoining marina, Pagliari is active in organizing community volunteer efforts and, at the age of 76, flies weekly missions for the Civil Air Patrol.

Flying is a long-time passion for the septuagenarian. “I flew my first solo in 1957. It was an Aronica Champ airplane with a 40-horse engine. You had to start it by hand,” he adds with a laugh.

Photo by Howard Robinson

The Cessna 172s and 182s he flies today for Civil Air Patrol are a bit more sophisticated, but he still has the same love for sitting in the cockpit. He takes his personal aircraft, a Beechcraft Bonanza, for monthly spins and spectacular views of the Gulf. For 10 years he’s flown for Civil Air Patrol’s Jackson Guard, monitoring the controlled burns for the vast Eglin complex and standing on call for emergencies. Pagliari and the other pilots keep an eye on how high the flames reach, how dense the smoke is and which direction it is headed, and keep tabs on how close it is to public roads.

Civil Air Patrol, an auxiliary of the United States Air Force, also responds to hurricanes and other disasters, natural or accidental. In 2010, for instance, Pagliari flew observation missions after the BP oil spill, spotting the first signs of oil just south of Pensacola.

He’s happy to tell of other stories with less serious consequences, such as the time he tracked an Emergency Locator Transmitter on a supposedly capsized boat. Tracking these location

devices is another function of CAP. These locator devices send out signals to satellites in order to pinpoint the location of boaters in trouble as quickly as possible. Fortunately, that particular incident turned out to be an accidental deployment of the device, so the air crew called in the ground crew to turn off the transmitter.

As a member of the Experimental Aircraft Association, once a month Pagliari takes aboard a group of kids called the Young Eagles, inspiring a new generation. In conjunction with CAP’s cadet program, the kids, ranging in age from 12 through 21, are exposed to Pagliari’s passion for flying, as well as the thrills of aviation.

Today Pagliari is on the ground at the marina’s office on Santa Rosa Sound in Fort Walton Beach, finishing preparations for a charity golf tournament organized by the Sons of Italy to raise scholarship money for local high school seniors. This annual event has grown steadily since inception, with 26 teams participating this year. Pagliari is a trustee for the

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM June–July 2014

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personality

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local Sons of Italy chapter and helps recruit corporate and individual teams for this event, as well as for other events that raise money for special-needs citizens.

The Original Waterfront Crab Shack Restaurant and Marina is only the most recent endeavor in Pagliari’s career path, which includes 34 years with General Electric sandwiched between stints in the Air Force and Navy.

Oddly, he didn’t fly for the Air Force — which he left in 1960 — but did for the Navy 19 years later.

“I was working for GE in Daytona Beach in 1979. I was flying people around on sightseeing tours over my lunch hour to earn hours for my commercial pilot rating, and a Commander from the Navy Reserve asked if I would be interested in flying for the Navy. I said yes, joined up and flew for 17 years with VP 62 out of Jacksonville searching for submarines.” He retired from the Navy in 1996 at age 60.

During his career with GE, he witnessed first-hand one of the most famous disasters in history. In 1967, Pagliari was working for GE as the configuration manager on Pad No. 34 in Cape Canaveral, the pad that Apollo/Saturn 204 mission (which we know today as Apollo 1, the first piloted attempt to reach the moon) was scheduled to launch from. Pagliari says he was fortunate enough to meet crew members Virgil Grissom, Edward White and Roger Chaffee before tragedy struck. During a test launch at Pad 34, a cabin fire killed all three crew members in NASA’s first disaster.

His career with General Electric sent him around the globe several times, including nine years overseas, with stints in Greenland and Turkey. That’s a lot of miles from Pennsylvania, where he grew up and learned to play the accordion.

“My dad wanted me to learn when I was high school.

I didn’t want to at first, but after I started playing, I liked it. My brother learned guitar, and we competed in talent shows at the local movie theaters. But we never won.”

Even so, he developed a love for the instrument and now he owns four, including an Italian-made Sebastianelli, something of a treasure among accordions. He occasionally brings one to the restaurant for an impromptu performance.

The restaurant business was not a planned career move.

In 1997, newly retired from the Navy and finding himself bored, a buddy jokingly said he needed help pumping gas at the marina. Pagliari offered to help, but his buddy said he couldn’t pay him his usual salary.

“Whatever it is, I’ll take it!” he told him. Meantime, the lease on the restaurant was coming to an end, and the owner was looking to sell. He approached Pagliari.

At first, Pagliari, declined, telling him to “Go take a long walk on a short pier. But then he told me I couldn’t do it, so of course I told him, ‘Yes, I can!’”

But it wasn’t only the restaurant — the owner insisted on selling the marina along with it. So Pagliari called in some help from a nephew and a business partner in South Florida, and a new career was born.

These days you can find him renting boat slips and tending to restaurant customers with equal competence, unless he’s in the air.

“I’ll keep flying as long as I keep passing my flight physical. I love to fly.”

So far he’s passed all of them with flying colors. ec

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editor’s choice

A Playbook for Fatherhood The Importance of Spending Time with Your Growing Girl

S

he’ll always be Daddy’s Little Girl. But you can’t fight reality — she’s growing up. So it’s vitally important that you allow your relationship to grow with her.

And not just for your sake.

Experts agree your daughter’s future happiness could rely heavily on the content and magnitude of your interactions with her today. Preserving and encouraging the development of your fatherdaughter bond throughout your child’s life is fundamental to her successful passage into adulthood — or, at least into a successful, happy adulthood.

That’s a lot of responsibility. So let’s take a step back for a moment and focus on the basics.

In short, girls are tricky. They always have been. And just because you assisted in the creation of this particular girl, doesn’t mean she’s any easier to read, or that you should always know the right thing to say. Put those

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fears aside. Truth is, you don’t have to be perfect to be a great dad. You just have to be there.

Evolutionarily speaking, women tend to model their relationships with men after the ones they’ve shared with their fathers. If your verbal and physical interactions with your daughter are positive and loving, she’s more likely to project those attributes onto relationships — romantic or otherwise — in her adult life. Plus, spending a little extra one-on-one time together will let your daughter know she has worth and that she shouldn’t tolerate people who make her feel differently.

“When a child is born, their foundation is their mother and their father,” said Jane Johnson, director of prevention for the Florida Department of Children and Families. “If they don’t feel good in that relationship, it’s difficult for them to feel good in any other relationships as they develop later on.”

But it’s not just the moments you share with your daughter that can leave their mark, father-mother interactions also play a key role and can make lasting impressions on a child’s worldview. An overall negative recollection of parental relations can have detrimental effects on children’s social interactions and self-esteem.

“A daughter sees her role with men in her life through the relationship she had with her father,” said Johnson. “If she sees her father demeaning her mother or not being respectful, the message she can take with her either consciously or unconsciously is that ‘women don’t deserve the respect of men’ or, that ‘it’s OK to let men disrespect me or talk down to me’.”

Basically, try to make sure her future Prince Charming has big shoes to fill by being a prince yourself. Because years from now, when your daughter’s reminiscing, she’ll be less likely to remember what activities the two of you did together, than how you did them.

Your time together doesn’t need to be extravagant to be noteworthy. Even something as simple as running errands around town can be transformed into an opportunity to spend quality time together.

In fact, a drive is the perfect environment to discuss whatever’s on your mind, whether it’s of great importance or little consequence. You can use this neutral setting to broach tough subjects like drug and alcohol consumption, peer pressure and relationship advice. Or, just flip through the stations until you find the perfect song for a duo. Either way, it’s time well spent.

Of course, children’s advocates like Johana P. Hatcher, prevention manager at DCF, are always in favor of having a heart-to-heart.

“Talk,” emphasized Hatcher. “Talk about your daughter’s everyday activities. Her schooling, her career interests, where she wants to be and what she likes and dislikes.

And perhaps more importantly, the father

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needs to share those things as well. It’s a two-way road to communication.” Talking is an activity that well-read dads like Phil Meyer, a professional magician, leader of the Killearn Lakes Elementary chapter of All Pro Dad and proud father of two girls, are always practicing.

“As the kids have grown A daughter up, I’ve seen that the one sees her role thing they want more than with men in anything is simply time and attention,” said Meyer. “The her life through more time and attention the relationship I spend with my girls, the more they appreciate it and she had with the closer our bond is.” her father.”

Joining an organization — Jane Johnson, like All Pro Dad, which director of prevention meets at schools or a nearby for the Florida venue for monthly breakfast, Department of is a great place to start. Not Children and Families only will you be letting your daughter know that she’s worth carving a chunk out of your day to spend time with, but you’ll be meeting on her turf — an equalizing environment and potential conversation starter.

Fitting everything in isn’t always easy. Sure, there’ll be meetings missed, ballet practices you forget about and track meets you just can’t make. But making the effort is an action experts and “pro dads” alike will tell you is a good place to start.

“It’s hard sometimes, we all get busy, have hectic schedules,” said Meyer. “But time and attention is the key.” ec

‘‘

A Date with Daddy

» Plan an evening where you and your daughter prepare a meal for

the rest of the family. If all goes according to plan, you’ll get to enjoy a delicious treat. If not, your daughter will get a lesson in failing gracefully and tips on selecting the best take-out.

» Keep gender roles neutral by taking her on a mountain bike ride through a well-trailed part of the woods.

» Turn your outing into an all-day event by taking a drive to a town by the coast. Studies show some of the best conversations arise from road trips. Don’t forget to pack your fishing poles!

» Dinner and a movie. It’s a classic.

Why mess with success?

» Teach her about something you’re

passionate about. Whether it be sailing, tinkering with cars, painting, football or something else. Sharing your true interests will make for deeper conversation.

» Try asking her what she’d like to do.

We bet she’ll have a few ideas.

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM June–July 2014

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GIF T CARD

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scene

PHOTOS COURTESY OF M PUBLIC RELATIONS (YOLO BIKE), FIRST FLORIDA BANK (MARSHALL & COLLINS) AND FLORIDA SMALL BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT CENTER (MASSEY)

Here is some of what we’ve seen and heard, while out and about on the EC scene.

NEW FACES …

▪ Frank B. Burge, chairman of First Florida Bank, recently announced the additions of Andy Marshall as executive vice-president and Don Collins as vicepresident/ Commercial Marshall Collins Lender.

▪ The Florida Small Business Development Center at UWF recently named Kelly Massey as its new director. In this position, Massey will oversee the operations of SBDC offices located in Pensacola and Fort Massey Walton Beach.

NEW NEWS …

▪ January 2015 is the target completion date for Superior Residences at Bluewater Bay, an upscale Independent Living facility with 94 apartments with balconies and screened patios for seniors, 55 years and older. Some of

YOLO Board has expanded its business with YOLO Board + Bike. The standup paddleboard (SUP) outfitter’s third retail store is located in Gulf Place Town Center on Scenic Highway 30A.

the amenities include trained on-site staff, concierge, recreational and fitness programs. Freshly prepared meals daily, housekeeping, utilities and Internet connection will be included in the monthly lease fee.

▪ Bud & Alley’s has formed Bud & Alley’s Restaurant Group. It has expanded its bell-ringing tradition from Seaside to a second waterfront location on Grand Lagoon in Panama City Beach. It has also launched a catering business based in Grayton Beach called Bud & Alley’s Dine by Design.

▪ Tyler Jarvis and Chris Ruyan have opened Jackacudas Seafood and Sushi Restaurant in HarborWalk Village.

▪ Destin Commons recently announced that national retailers Charming Charlie and Icing by Claire’s will open next summer as part of a 100,000-square-

foot expansion currently under construction. Charming Charlie, the award-winning fashion accessories retailer, will occupy 6,000 square feet adjacent to Uncle Buck’s on the south end of the expansion. Icing by Claire’s, a second brand by parent company Claire’s, will occupy nearly 2,000 square feet near H&M at the expansion’s northeast corner.

▪ The Okaloosa County Economic Development Council (EDC) plans to launch a new initiative early next year designed to increase participation and funding in the organization. The EDC will mark its 25th anniversary in 2014 by launching a new marketing campaign called The Next 25. With The Next 25 initiative, the EDC will engage two leaders in five sectors: real estate development and construction; manufacturing and defense; architecture and engineering; legal and accounting; and banking and finance to help build membership and funding.

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scene CONGRATULATIONS AND KUDOS …

▪ Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association’s Educational Foundation (FRLAEF) announced that Crestview High School placed first in the Keiser University Edible Centerpiece Competition, one of four competitions at the 14th Annual ProStart Culinary Team Competitions, held in Orlando.

A total of 60 schools participated in the competition with 16 schools winning top awards throughout the day’s events. More than $800,000 in scholarships was distributed to the winning schools. All participating teams were comprised of high school juniors and seniors that are enrolled in the ProStart curriculum program during the 2013–2014 school year.

▪ Lynn Haven resident Bruce Gamble was recently honored with a Florida Book Award for his telling of the longest battle of World War II. The book is called “Target Rabaul: The Allied Siege of Japan’s Most Infamous Stronghold, March 1943­–August 1945” and is in bookstores now.

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▪ Eve Glenn, a student at C.W. Ruckel Middle School in Niceville, won first place in Florida’s Financial History Challenge Essay Contest held in honor of Viva Florida 500, a commemoration of the state’s 500-year history. The contest presented an opportunity for students of all ages to learn about the history of Florida’s economy and how the state’s unique past contributes to today’s success.

▪ Charlie Shackelford, a senior at Fort Walton Beach High School, was named the 2014 winner of the prestigious Taylor Haugen Trophy, an award presented each year by the Taylor Haugen Foundation in conjunction with the All Sports Association.

▪ Wyndham Vacation Rentals announced that associate Dustin “Dusti” Alford was selected to receive a “Count on Me!” service award. Alford was recognized for her assistance after a pedestrian accident. Upon witnessing the accident, Alford cared for the teenage boy who was struck by a car until paramedics arrived and alerted his parents after searching the nearby beach to find his family.

▪ Florida Trend magazine has honored the top restaurants throughout the state with the Golden Spoon Award. Golden Spoon Awards have been given to six Walton County restaurants, more than any other area on the Northwest Florida Gulf coast.

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JUST CAUSE …

▪ Local seventh grade student, Lily Corchis, headed fundraising efforts to raise $1,000 and donated 100 percent of the proceeds to Alaqua Animal Refuge.

▪ Wine World’s Fort Walton Beach Beer Festival Preview held at Uptown Station raised $7,794 for Eglin Air Force Base’s Special Forces Association (SFA), Chapter 7. ec

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Off the Wall

PHOTO COURTESY DIGITAL GRAFFITI AT ALYS BEACH

Touted as the first projection art festival in the world, after six years Digital Graffiti 2014 is still a thrill, technically speaking.

June 5–7 dozens of digital artists will venture to 30A from around the globe to illuminate the iconic white-walled buildings of Alys Beach with an array of colorful projections during what has become the summer’s mesmerizing must-do outdoor event. Artists combine design, animation and projection technologies to bring animated images to life against a backdrop of the town’s stunning, austere architecture. During the three-day visual feast a panel of judges will select six winners and award those artists a total of $10,000 in cash prizes.

New this year is an exclusive behind-the-scenes preview tour narrated by curator Brett Phares on Thursday at 8 p.m.; Friday features a “gallery stroll” at 8:30 p.m. with the opportunity to meet and speak with many of the art finalists; Saturday kicks off with a festive welcome event hosted by EC Magazine at 6:30 p.m. followed by the art show at 8:30 p.m. The festival ends with a high-energy arty poolside party at Caliza Pool.

Tickets for Friday night are $50 per person for adults and $20 for children (12 and under). Saturday tickets are $75 (for adults and children); patron tickets are $100 and include an official Digital Graffiti T-shirt and a refillable Tervis tumbler.

Weekend passes are available for $200 per person.

Proceeds benefit The Alys Foundation, which supports local charities and causes. Tickets are available online at digitalgraffitti.com or you can purchase them in person at the Alys Beach bike shop, Alys Shoppe and Fonville Press.

For information call (866) 481-8390. — Zandra Wolfgram

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM June–July 2014

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culture

Stay ‘Classy’

Seaside SEASIDE INSTITUTE BUILDS NEW ACADEMIC VILLAGE

BY WENDY O. DIXON // PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARI DARR~WELCH

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o

The Seaside Institute’s Academic Village is the newest “smart” addition to the New Urbanism town of Seaside; Robert Davis, co-founder of Seaside speaks to a recent class in the Academic Village.

nce again, Seaside is first in class. After years in the making, the Seaside Institute, a nonprofit organization in Seaside that serves as a laboratory and educational center for community planning, design and development, has finalized construction of its academic village. As a gathering place for urban designers, artists, visiting scholars, faculty and students, the village provides comfortable and modest housing during their stay.

The institute offers courses, seminars and workshops primarily in the areas of the arts, architecture, new urbanism, and health and well-being. The buildings that make up the village are mostly renovated cottages that housed victims of Hurricane Katrina in Mississippi, keeping in step with the new urban movement for which Seaside is known. “Recycling older buildings, elevating shacks, airstreams and humble houses to positions of civic dignity has been part of Seaside’s genius loci — its distinctive spirit and sense of place — since the early 1980s,” says Seaside’s founder, Robert Davis.

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culture

The village is located in the lyceum, an area in Seaside devoted to education and other civic activities and originally the heart of Seaside, according to Davis. The Seaside lyceum previously housed the Seaside Neighborhood School and offices for various nonprofit organizations. Davis, along with his wife and Seaside co-founder, Daryl Davis, had planned for the addition of the academic village as part of the educational component of Seaside since 1998. As the town grew and prospered beyond the founders’ wildest dreams, property values have soared (Seaside has some of the highest real estate values in the country). It had become a challenge to fulfill the goals of the institute due to high rental costs and lack of a central gathering place for students. The hope was that by building an academic village onsite in Seaside, the work of the institute would be more readily available to students and professionals year-round.

Several attempts had been made to jumpstart plans for this phase of the lyceum, but getting the financing was a challenge. Earlier designs for the academic village included plans for a performing arts center, student housing and hotel-like suites.

Now with a more modest focus, the village primarily offers temporary housing in its seven

The communal dining area of the Seaside Institute’s Academic Village (above) with the cottages and classroom building in the background; the Academic Village (below) includes fully furnished cottages priced affordably to host up to 20 visiting students, faculty and scholars.

cottages for students while they pursue their education. The village can house up to 20 students at a time in the 500-square-foot cottages.

The interiors have varied layouts to house one student or a group of four in two bedrooms with a shared bathroom. Furnishings emphasize learning as opposed to lounging but are comfortable and pleasant. The cottages have Parson-leg desks and chairs, comfortable beds with upholstered headboards and three-drawer dressers. White paneled walls set off the wire-brushed oak floors and brushed nickel hardware. Front porches for relaxing between courses serve both an aesthetic and functional dimension to village living. “It is geared to a wide range of people, from high school, college and graduate level students to senior adults,” says Seaside Institute director Diane Dorney. “And course offerings are open to both boarders and day students, while allowing participants to enjoy a collegial living environment where discussions can continue after class is officially over.” An adjacent two-story building houses a gallery and meeting space on the first floor and the institute office on the second.

Architect Dhiru Thadani, author of “Visions of Seaside: Foundation, Evolution, Imagination, Built & Unbuilt Architecture,” had a hand in the

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UPCOMING CLASSES TO BE HELD IN THE SEASIDE INSTITUTE’S ACADEMIC VILLAGE Oct. 9–11 John Defresne, author Creative Fiction Writing Workshop

Oct. 22–24 Steven Brooke, photographer Architectural Photography & Composition Workshop For more information, email info@seasideinstitute.org.

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culture design of the village layout and designed the interior layout of the cottages, including the challenging retrofit of the cottage for the disabled.

Thadani included custom-designed lighting fixtures mounted on fence posts along Smolian Circle to mark the edge of the academic village. The fixture-toppers were made in Bombay, India, and were hand-carried back to Seaside by Dhiru after a trip he made there. The brushed stainless steel light fixtures designed for the village were inspired by the austere classical forms depicted in the sketches of Aldo Rossi, who was awarded the Seaside Prize, an honor given to those who contribute to the quality and character of Seaside.

The village design includes a light box system to illuminate the courtyard trees. The lights are constructed of wood and translucent acrylic and are designed to wash the ground plane with light, uplight the tree trunks and minimize any nighttime light pollution.

The institute held an international urbanism symposium earlier in the year, featuring urban design leaders from around the world. Writing workshops include one-day seminars, school outreach programs and social events. Other courses include the fields of photography, house design, plein air painting and drawing.

Students from the University of Maryland spent two weeks in Seaside surveying and drawing all of the existing buildings as part of learning how the principles and forms of traditional urbanism have been used to plan a town. Architecture majors from the University of Notre Dame studied Seaside using new technology that involves printing 3D models of buildings. The goal is to replicate Seaside’s central square and aid planners in redevelopment efforts. Nearly a dozen Georgia Tech students studied Seaside’s architecture and urban design, and measured and sketched public spaces and streets for other new urban communities.

Tuition costs vary, and students are not required to stay in the academic village while taking courses. If they choose to, the daily rates range from $69 for a shared cottage to $149 for the classic cottage with a queen size bed, private bathroom, kitchen and living room. ec

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Brittain F. Kulow MD, FAAD

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

Christian Hughes (opposite), a student at Hampton University in Virginia, makes some measurements on his architectural drawings; Ray Gindroz (at computer), a co-founder and principal emeritus of Urban Design Associates, who pioneered the development of participatory planning processes for neighborhoods and downtowns, works with Hampton University associate professor Mason Andrews (wearing glasses) and her architecture students (left to right) Ramatoulie Sallah-Muhammed, Kelvon Blowe, Tabita Daolio and Via’Ronic Snow-Hill as others look on.

FT. WALTON BEACH 930 Mar Walt Drive, Suite C, Fort Walton Beach • 850.314.7546 NICEVILLE/BLUEWATER BAY 4400 Highway 20 E, Suite 410, Niceville • 850.897.4900

CoastalSkinSurgery.com EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM June–July 2014

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thecalendar june + july

+events

Farmers’ Markets Every Saturday & Sunday through Labor Day The Destin Harbor

Farmers’ Market is open on Saturdays from 10 to 2 p.m. On Sundays venture to Rosemary Beach for the 30A Farmers’ Market from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Shop everything from farm fresh eggs and sausages to fresh aquaponic veggies.

Nibble freshly made breads, pastries, desserts, fudge and candy. Fill your pantry with homemade jams, preserves, BBQ sauce, honey, pickled veggies, salsa (and don’t forget the homemade tortilla chips and guacamole)! You can even pick up some organic dog and cat treats.

FREE. For more information, find each on Facebook.

Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays through June Harbor Docks “Big Deck” Concerts Live music concerts.

FREE. Harbor Docks, 538 Harbor Blvd., Thursdays at 6:30 p.m.

Fridays and Saturdays at 8:30 p.m. Harbordocks.com

Sundays through June

Gulf Place Summer Concert Series Head outdoors for a family-friendly concert. FREE. Gulf Place Lawn, Town Center Loop, Santa Rosa Beach, 6–9 p.m.

Gulfplacefl.com

Last Friday of the Month

+events

Fiesta de San Fermin and Running of the Bulls July 19 This showcase of Pensacola’s Spanish history and culture includes a spin on the traditional Encierro. On July 19 enjoy Spanish music, food and drink at this annual familyfriendly event.

FREE, Seville Quarter, 130 E. Government St., Pensacola. 9 a.m.

(850) 434-6211, sevillequarter.com 48 June–July 2014

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Neighborhood Memory Café Meet up with individuals and care-partners going through Alzheimer’s and other dementias. Snacks and activities provided by community sponsors. FREE. Synergy Organic Juice Bar & Café, 120 Miracle Strip Parkway, Fort Walton Beach. Last Friday (each month) from 2–4 p.m. (850) 865-4919, becausehopematters.com

Select Sundays through Aug. 31

Blue Angel Music’s Blues on the Bay Pack a blanket or some chairs, fill a cooler with your favorite food (no glass bottles please), and head down to the Randall K. and Martha H. Hunter Amphitheater at the Community Maritime Park to enjoy Ma Ma Lucky (June 8) and Diedra + The Rouge Pro Band (July 6) presented by Play Pensacola and the Community Maritime Park. FREE. Pensacola’s Waterfront Amphitheatre. 5–7 p.m.

(850) 436-5672, pensacolacommunitymaritimepark.com

June 1–30

ADSO Window Display Come see the works of Sherry Cooler, a talented artist who works in clay and ceramic. Arts and Design Society window. FREE. Art Center, 17 First Street, S.E., Fort Walton Beach. Gallery hours: Tue–Fri, noon–4 p.m.; Sat, 1–4 p.m. (850) 244-1271, artsdesignsociety.org

June 4, 11, 18, 25

Wednesday Night Concert Series The Village will be tantalizing your musical taste buds with musicians to entertain all of our guests! FREE. The Village of Baytowne Wharf at Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort, 9300 Emerald Coast Pkwy. West, Miramar Beach. 7–9 p.m.

(866) 912-3224, baytownewharf.com

Compiled by Mikaela McShane and Megan Williams For more events in the EC, visit emeraldcoastmagazine.com.

+events

Red, White and Baytowne July 4 Join Sandestin for its

PHOTO COURTESY AGNI FARMS (30A FARMER), JOE MALONEY (RUNNING OF THE BULLS) AND SANDESTIN GOLF AND BEACH RESORT (RED, WHITE AND BAYTOWNE)

spectacular Independence Day celebration on July 4. Kids’ activities from 6-10 p.m. to include crafts, face painting and balloon sculpting. Live music will be performed from 6-9 p.m. with a 4th of July fireworks celebration at 9:15 p.m.

FREE. Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort, 9300 Emerald Coast Pkwy. West, Miramar Beach.

6–10 p.m. (866) 912-3224, baytownewharf.com

June 5–7

59th Annual Billy Bowlegs Pirate Festival Enjoy a day filled with swash bucklin’ pirate family fun. Wander through the festival, or watch the parade and fireworks show. FREE. Thur 7 p.m. Eglin Parkway and 1st St.; Fri and Sat The Landing, 139 Brooks St. SE, Fort Walton Beach. Contact Rachelle Graves for more info (850) 244-8191. billybowlegspiratefestival.com

June 6, 13, 20, 27

Live Music Fridays Enjoy live music with family, friends or both.

Every Friday night the Marina Bar & Grill will host a different musical performer for the public to enjoy. FREE. Marina Bar & Grill, 9300 Emerald Coast Pkwy. 6–9 p.m. (850) 267-7778, facebook. com/SandestinMarinaBar

June 10–July 3

‘Wild! The Calendar Show’ This show, by members of the Arts and Design Society, will reflect the theme “Wild!” Works from this show will be displayed in the ADSO Calendar for 2015. FREE. Art Center, 17 First St. S.E., Fort Walton Beach. Gallery hours: Tue–Fri, noon–4 p.m.; Sat, 1–4 p.m. (850) 244-1271, artsdesignsociety.org

June 16–19 & 23–26

Emerald Coast Theatre Company Musical Theatre Camp Calling all tail waggers aged 7 to 11 to show their spots during a two-week musical theater camp this summer. ECTC is teaming up with Premiere Performers to produce Disney’s “101 Dalmatians.”

All young pups will hone their acting, singing and dancing skills to wow their friends and family at an evening performance on Thursday, June 26.

A $5 donation is requested per adult. $395 per

student. Location TBD. 8:30 a.m.–3:30 p.m. Call (850) 687-1637, email info@emeraldcoasttheatre.org or visit emeraldcoasttheatre.org.

Art Center, 17 First St. S.E., Fort Walton Beach.

Morning sessions 9:30–11:30 a.m. (ages 6–8) Afternoon sessions 1–3 p.m. (ages 9–13).

(850) 244-1271, artsdesignsociety.org

12th Annual Emerald Coast Blue Marlin Classic The Emerald Coast Blue Marlin Classic is a sport fishing tournament with cash categories for dolphin, tuna and wahoo, as well as individual angler trophies. Fishermen have an opportunity to make Destin fishing tournament history! FREE. The Baytowne Marina and The Village of Baytowne Wharf, 9300 US Highway 98 W., Destin. Weigh-ins FriSun 4 p.m. (850) 912-3224, fishsbs.com

June 25

June 18–22

June 23–27

ADSO Kids’ Summer Camp Through The Arts and Design Society children can participate in creating visual arts. Classes feature a different medium each day. Toward the end of each week there will be an art show and reception for the families. $60 per child ($50 for ADSO members). Pre-registration is required by Friday, June 20, for June sessions.

ASDO Luncheon Pensacola artist Nita Jones, winner of Best in Show in the 2013 Great Gulfcoast Arts Festival, will speak on her paper sculptures and prints. $12 ($15 for reservations made after Monday, June 23). 17 First St. SE. Fort Walton Beach.

11:30 a.m. (850) 244-1271, artsdesignsociety.org

July 1–31

ADSO Window Display Come see the works of artist Helen Blair, working in palette knife, acrylic, oil. Arts and Design Society window. FREE. Art Center, 17 First St. S.E., Fort Walton Beach.

(850) 244-1271, artsdesignsociety.org

July 2, 9, 16, 23, 30

Wednesday Night Concert Series The Village will be tantalizing your musical taste EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM June–July 2014

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The Hotel

★★★★★ • Plush beds • Flat screen TV • First-class service & amenities • Friendly staff available 24/7 • 2 times a day room service • 3 times a day potty break • Mid day snack • Filtered water

Day Care • Full day or half day • Indoor and outdoor play area • Nap time in a private suite • Constant supervision & a lot of love and new friendships!

The Spa • Full grooming service • Bath/brush & maintenance • De-shedding treatment • Hair repair & more!

Destin’s First Premium Dog Resort!

LOBBY HOURS: M-F 8-6 • Sat 9-5 • Closed Sun/Holidays 4601 Opa-Locka Lane, Destin (behind Back Yard Burgers) (850) 460-7460 • goochiepoochiesparesort.com

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thecalendar

• GENERAL DENTISTRY • ORTHODONTICS • COSMETIC DENTISTRY MIRAMAR BEACH DENTAL & ORTHODONTICS

+events

Concerts in the Village

Every Thursday through June 26 Add live music to

You have every reason to smile when you visit us at Miramar Beach Dental & Orthodontics! In addition to a complete range of Preventative and Orthodontic Services, we offer treatment for Sleep disorders, Sleep Apnea, and Snoring. Our doctors also treat TMJ and myo-facial pain utilizing the newest technologies such as Botox. We have a complete range of Cosmetic services from In-Office whitening, bonding, Veneers, Invisalign and treatment of facial wrinkles with Botox® and Juvéderm.

Our vision is to provide all your treatment needs in one comfortable, friendly environment. Lay back, relax, watch T.V. or listen to your favorite station on Pandora. Nervous? We offer sedation to ease your anxiety.

We’re here to make you smile!

your summer evenings every Thursday through June 26 beginning at 7 p.m. when local and regional touring artists perform everything from Motown, rhythm and blues, jazz, classic and modern rock to tribute bands. Bring a lawn chair, picnic and wine, or purchase dinner prepared onsite each week by a featured restaurant.

New Patients Welcome

$10 for adults, FREE for children under 12. Dugas Pavilion & Village Green, Mattie Kelly Cultural Arts Village, 4323 Commons Drive West, Destin. 7 p.m. (850) 650-2226, mattiekellyartsfoundation.org

miramarbeachdental.com FREE teeth whitening for life

buds with musicians to entertain all of our guests! FREE. The Village of Baytowne Wharf at Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort, 9300 Emerald Coast Pkwy. West, Miramar Beach. 7–9 p.m. (866) 912-3224, baytownewharf.com

Wellness is a lifestyle worth pursuing.

Let us show you where to start.

July 3

Smoke on the Coast & Destin Commons Expansion Grand Opening Come one, come all to a fun-filled day celebrating Destin Commons’ 100,000-square-foot expansion grand opening. Enjoy the 4th Annual Smoke on the Coast BBQ competition filled with kids’ activities, street performers and continuous live bands performing on two stages. Twenty area restaurants and BBQ aficionados will light up their grills to prepare their best dishes. For $1 per sampling, people get to vote for People’s Choice winners. The day concludes with an Independence Day fireworks extravaganza, followed by the closing live band entertainment. $1 per sample. Destin Commons, noon to midnight. destincommons.com

Jason E. Baker, DDS

850.650.2070

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July 4

Stars & Stripes at Seaside: A July 4th Celebration Travel through Seaside for this patriotic celebration. Start the day out with the annual July 4th parade down 30A, concluding in Seaside.

Then make sure to reserve your spot on the lawn for a patriotic Pops performance by the Pensacola Symphony Orchestra followed by an unbelievable fireworks finale. Be sure to grab your seat on the newly renovated amphitheater lawn early, as space fills up quickly for this festive event. FREE. The Town of Seaside. 8 a.m. parade; 7 p.m. concert; 9 p.m. fireworks, seasidefl.com

July 4

Red, White and Baytowne Enjoy a day of fun in the sun, an evening that lights up the sky and family activities. The Village of Baytowne Wharf will have a host of kids’ activities, including kids’ crafts, face painting and balloon sculpting. Live music will be performed, so grab your boogie shoes and join the fun. We will light up the sky over the lagoon with our 4th

Women and Children First

Dr. E. Jennifer Esses, FACOG 31 E. Mack Bayou Road | Santa Rosa Beach 850-267-2292 | wcfirst.com EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM June–July 2014

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Voted the Best & Finest Lawyers for 2013 Your Lawyers for Life Litigation Real Estate Law Foreclosures Criminal Law Creditor Representation in Bankruptcy Wills, Trusts, Estate Planning & Probate Business Law Divorce · Family Law Commercial & Judgment Collection

Left to right: Jeremy T. Cranford, Arthur “Richard” Troell, III, Karen Powell Ward, William L. Ketchersid, David L. Powell

online at SuperLawyers.com 850-837-5507 · flaattorney.com Clary Cobb Building · 1241 Airport Road, Suite H · Destin, FL 32541 Admitted to practice in all Florida courts and the U.S. District Court, Northern District of Florida, U.S. Tax Court and U.S. Bankruptcy Court. Member of Attorneys Title Fund Services LLC. Authorized Agent Old Republic National Title Insurance Company.

See What You’ve Been Missing!

DESTIN 12432 Emerald Coast Pkwy. | 850.654.3124 CRESTVIEW 2118 3rd Ave. | 850.306.3298 2012 & 2013

DESTIN • SEACREST BEACH ON 30A (850) 424-6677 • wellsvisioncenter.com 52 June–July 2014

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THANK YOU FOR VOTING US “BEST OF THE EMERALD COAST” WWW.USGOLDGYMNASTICS.COM

thecalendar of July fireworks celebration. FREE. Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort, 9300 US Highway 98. 6–10 p.m. (866) 912-3224, baytownewharf.com

July 4, 11, 18, 25

Live Music Fridays Enjoy live music with family, friends or both. Every Friday night the Marina Bar & Grill will host a different musical performer for the public to enjoy. FREE. Marina Bar & Grill, 9300 Emerald Coast Pkwy.

6–9 p.m. (850) 267-7778, facebook.com/SandestinMarinaBar

July 7–11

Emerald Coast Theatre Company Camp Glee Come sing and dance your heart out with your friends while learning songs and simple choreography to some of the musical numbers from the popular television show. Be prepared to play fun improvisation and theater games, too. Open to rising fifth through 9th graders. $160 per student. Seaside Neighborhood School on 30A. 9 a.m.–12:30 p.m. Call (850) 687-1637, email info@ emeraldcoasttheatre.org or visit emeraldcoasttheatre.org.

Breakfast . Coffee Cakes . Pastries

Weddings and Catering Open 6 days a week! Mon–Sat 7am–4pm

10859 Emerald Coast Parkway West, Miramar Beach (850) 532-1750 . karaboobakery.com

July 14–18

Pensacola Opera Camp 1 Each summer, Pensacola Opera holds summer Opera Camps to introduce children and teens ages 8 to 16 to the magic of opera!

Each camp session focuses on the aspects of opera production: vocal coaching, dramatic training, audition techniques, set and costume design and makeup. Opera professionals and teachers will mentor students throughout each camp, which culminates in a final performance by the campers for their parents, friends and peers. $175 per camper. Pensacola Opera Center, 75 S. Tarragona St., Pensacola.

(850) 433-6737, pensacolaopera.com/camps.html

Jessica Faircloth Owner + Designer

850.227.4183 :: jessica@lemongrassinteriors.com lemongrassinteriors.com

July 14–19

Emerald Coast Theatre Company Drama Camp Lions and tigers and bears … oh my! ECTC is partnering with the Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation to produce the beloved musical classic “The Wizard of Oz.” Open to third through eighth graders. $150 per student. Destin Elementary School, 630 Kelly St., Destin. Mon–Fri 9 a.m–3 p.m. and Sat 1–5 p.m., with a final grand performance staged for family and friends on Sat., July 20, at 6 p.m. ($5 donation per adult is requested for the show.) Enroll with Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation (850) 650-2226 or visit mattiekellyartsfoundation.org.

July 16–19

‘Spamalot’ The Northwest Florida State College Fine & Performing Arts Division present Monty Python’s hilarious musical comedy adapted from the 1975 film “Monty Python and the Holy Grail.” Like the film, it is a highly irreverent parody of the legend of King Arthur. $20–$25.

Mattie Kelly Arts Center, 100 College Blvd., Niceville. (850) 729-6000, mattiekellyartscenter.org

SUMMER

ART CAMPS

Camps available end Abrakadoodle Studio Best Place for Kids of May through at Destin Commons Birthday Party st!

Augu of g beginnin 2012 & 2013 3

July 23

ADSO Luncheon Mary Kay Samouce, owner/designer of ADORN in Miramar Beach, will speak on her experience in the design world, including theatrical design as well as clothing and jewelry design. $12; $15 for reservations made after Monday, July 21. Art Center, 17 First St. S.E., Fort Walton Beach. 11:30 a.m. (850) 244-1271, artsdesignsociety.org

July 28–Aug 1

Pensacola Opera Camp 2 Each summer, Pensacola Opera holds summer Opera Camps introducing children and teens aged 8 to 16 to the magic of opera!

Each camp session focuses on the aspects of opera production: vocal coaching, dramatic training, audition techniques, set and costume design and makeup. Opera professionals and teachers will mentor students throughout each camp, which will culminate in a final performance by the campers for their parents, friends and peers. $175 per camper. Pensacola Opera Center, 75 S. Tarragona St., Pensacola.

(850) 433-6737, pensacolaopera.com/camps ec

Class Descriptions and Registration Online

WWW.ABRAK ADOODLE.COM/FL07 EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM June–July 2014

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socialstudies New Works Project Reception Feb. 21–23, 2014 Northwest Florida Ballet launched the debut of an innovative multi-media program celebrating choreography, dance, art and music called The New Works Project with a reception held in their dance studios in downtown Fort Walton Beach.

Photos by Zandra Wolfgram

Ella McKinney, Trinity Helton and Ellie Borick Jazz Roser and Larry Turner

Todd Eric and Sharon Allen

Bernadette Sims and Ryoko Mobley

Denise, Lily, Kevin Greene and Brenda Hutchison

Emerald Coast Children’s Advocacy Center Night of a Thousand Stars Gala Mar. 1, 2014 Spirits were soaring as generous guests enjoyed dinner, dancing and an exciting live auction at the newly renovated Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa to raise funds and awareness during a blacktie gala for the Emerald Coast Children’s Advocacy Center’s “stars” — local victims of child abuse.

Photos by Zandra Wolfgram

Randy and Sandy Sims

Sharon Allen and Todd Eric

Alan and Tracy Wood

Julie Hurst and Geoff McBride

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM June–July 2014

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The Right Insurance = the optimal combination of coverage and price.

You could choose one company and hope to get it right for every policy.

Or, you could allow Harris Insurance to run the legwork for you, providing the best quotes from more than 150 companies for your comparison.

Since 1965, Harris Insurance has been protecting Florida’s Emerald Coast.

We have an experienced team of professionally licensed and accredited Agents who will ensure you get

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850-586-7540 Monday–Friday 8:30–5:30 56 June–July 2014

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HarrisInsurance.com

123 Miracle Strip Parkway SE, Ft. Walton Beach, Florida 32548

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Ricky Fannin

Pork & Pinot Mar. 9, 2014 Donned all in white, guests lounged on creamy sofas on the Kelly Green at Alys Beach enjoying libations, roasted pork by Café 30A and live entertainment by Kyle LaMonica. The event culminated with a trophy and the bragging rights for the Croquet Tournament Champions. The third annual event, made possible by The Alys Foundation, raised funds and awareness for the Children’s Volunteer Health Network.

Demetrius Fuller and Demetria McNeese

Photos by Zandra Wolfgram

Emerald Coast Cattle Barons’ Ball 2014 Mar. 15, 2014 Cowboys and cowgirls in their finest western duds headed to the “ACS Ranch” at Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort to give cancer the boot and lasso some funds and awareness for the Emerald Coast chapter of the American Cancer Society.

Guests enjoyed fancy vittles, live music by the El Dorados, two-stepping and gaming, as well as bidding on dozens of packages and prizes in both a silent and live auction.

Photos by Zandra Wolfgram

Debbie Luedecke, Tammie Bower, Terri Hensley and Judi Arnold

Karen Sukiennik

Lauren Magli and Randy Hayden

Diana and Jim Conlee and June Jones EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM June–July 2014

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socialstudies Sinfonia Gulf Coast Presents ‘Coulda, Woulda, Shoulda’ Starring Patti LuPone March 29, 2014 A shining star of Broadway, singer/actress sensation Patti LuPone, charmed music lovers at the Emerald Coast Conference Center with stirring ballads and mesmerizing musical numbers during a glittering benefit gala to cap Sinfonia Gulf Coast’s 8th concert season.

Photos by Zandra Wolfgram

Patti LuPone

Melba and Glenn Cooper

Kay and Steve Bonn

Kim and Jim Dettle

Sandestin Wine Festival April 10–13, 2014 The 28th annual wine fete invited wine lovers all along the Emerald Coast to enjoy four days of wine dinners, tastings, yacht cruises, champagne brunches and even sipping while shopping.

Here here!

Photos by Rhonda Murray

Dustin and Michelle Terry

Jennifer Reynier and Micheal McIntosh

Brittany Byrd, Lauren Robinson and Lanier Motes EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM June–July 2014

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

Lawyers from the Community, for the Community.

Anchors Smith Grimsley is comprised of eleven lawyers with deep, life-long ties to the Northwest Florida community.

Our law firm provides a full range of legal services throughout the Florida Panhandle. By combining over two centuries of collective legal experience that crosses a broad range of practice areas with an unparalleled insight into the legal, social and political environment of Northwest Florida, the lawyers at ASG are able to service the many and varied needs of our clients. The lawyers and staff of ASG invite you to E XPERIENCE O UR E XPERIENCE .

• Real Property Transactions, Litigation, Development and Foreclosures • General Civil Law and Trials • Banking Law • Commercial and Business Transactions and Litigation • Family Law, Divorce and Child Custody • Estate Planning • Probate and Guardianship • Criminal Law, Trials and DUI • Construction and Lien Law • Collection and Creditor’s Rights • Personal Injury and Wrongful Death • Bankruptcy • Landlord / Tenant

Anchors | Smith | Grimsley, plc 909 Mar Walt Drive, Suite 1014 | Fort Walton Beach, Fla. 850.863.4064 | asglegal.com 60 June–July 2014

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socialstudies

Gill & Mary Gibson, Laurie & Don Gibson, Kristi & Nate Gibson

Carla Rinaldi Tracy Brown and Mary Eva Tredway

Doug and Kirsten Ingram

Champagne & Gulf Coast Seafood Lunch Cruise April 11, 2014 All aboard! Locals cruised right into the Sandestin Wine Festival by sipping and savoring a four-course luncheon nautical themed-menu paired with champagne during a threehour afternoon sail aboard the Solaris Yacht.

Photos by Rhonda Murray

Okaloosa-Walton Heart Ball Feb. 14, 2014 Lovers and sweethearts danced the night away in a Vegas-style gala evening to raise $100,000 for the American Heart Association to fight heart disease and stroke in Okaloosa and Walton counties. Ron Adams performed his Shadow of the King act, while Bruce Craul of the Emerald Grande served as emcee for the event held at the Palms of Destin with more than 170 guests pledging their support during the silent and live auctions.

Photos by Jacqueline Ward Photography

Caleb Bateman

Amanda Curtis, Cheri Denney, Krista Schueler and Karen Englert

Chairs Melanie and Todd Schweizer

Sandy and Patrick Anastasio

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM Juneâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;July 2014

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f your chance to win prizes for fo an a and trips through Top of th the EC. You will also receive sspecial text message offers ffrom the exclusive club of local vendors below. Gain access to events, promotions, invitations and more.

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SUPERIOR RESIDENCES AT BLUEWATER BAY Independent Living Community

“A Lifestyle of Distinction and Excellence for Seniors.”

Life at Superior Residences Superior Amenities & Services

Superior Residences at Bluewater Bay will appeal to seniors 55 years and older desiring the convenience of upscale apartment living in a safe, resort-style environment, eliminating and/or minimizing the burden of home ownership and daily living chores.

Residents have full access to all of our amenities and services. You enjoy a superior lifestyle… we’ll take care of the rest!

Elegant Dining Room 5th Floor Bistro/Sports Bar Heated Pool With Hot Tub Home Theater Activity Lounges 20 ft. High Lobby & Foyer Private Garages Covered Parking Library Interfaith Chapel Putting Green Lush Garden Courtyard Fitness Club Membership & Activities Concierge & Limo Service Weekly Housekeeping Linen Service Happy Hour Daily

Superior Quality

The quality of Superior Residences starts with superior construction: solid concrete walls and ceilings, impressive porte-cochere, two-story main dining room, and three elevators. This quality continues throughout the building.

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Superior Residences at Bluewater Bay offer oneand two-bedroom rental apartments ranging from 545 to 937 square feet (plus balconies).

Each apartment has its own kitchen and living area with a screened balcony as well as a washer and dryer. Surrounded by beautifully landscaped grounds, our residents enjoy luxury living with no effort and no worries.

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Mike Martin’s

Half Life TALES FROM 35 YEARS OF COACHING FSU BASEBALL …

AND THOUGHTS ON THE ELUSIVE COLLEGE WORLD SERIES CHAMPIONSHIP BY LEE GORDON // PHOTO BY SCOTT HOLSTEIN

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I

f Mike Martin “makes it” through the 2014 season (his words), he will have spent half of his life as the head baseball coach at Florida State. The 70-year-old skipper is leading the Garnet and Gold for the 35th consecutive year. In fact, 2014 is a big year across the board in the Martin family. In addition to the milestone birthday and his tenure at FSU, Martin and his wife Carol will celebrate 50 years of marriage in 2014. And while others in his position would ride off into the sunset, “11” as he’s known by most (his jersey number), relishes the opportunity to lead the ’Noles for as long as they will let him.

“My Mom always told me, you are only as old as you feel,” Martin said. “The game of baseball keeps me excited. I learn something on a daily basis if I allow myself to. Every day is fun as a coach. I still have that energy, because I love what I do.”

That love affair makes Martin one of the most popular and well-known faces on the Florida State campus. How long has he been at FSU? According to the Florida State record books, through the 2013 season there had been 3,598 baseball games played in FSU history, and Martin has been involved in 2,705 of them (both as a player and coach).

The Seminoles’ head coach has been on the field or in the dugout for 1,990 of the team’s 2,623 all-time victories. Martin has been at Florida State so long that he was in the Seminole dugout before even Bobby Bowden stepped foot on the Tallahassee campus.

If there is a definition of success in your profession, Mike Martin has defined it.

“I’m just a small part of this,” he says of his success through the years. “I like to think that we’ve tried to do things the right way and have been very consistent.”

Heading into the 2013 season, Martin had won an astounding 1,723 games. Six different U.S. Presidents have been in office since Martin was named head coach at Florida State in 1980 — and in that time, his ’Noles have made 33 straight postseason appearances. His teams have won five Atlantic Coast Conference championships and have appeared in the College World Series 15 times.

“11” is so good he took his ’Noles to Omaha in his first season in the dugout.

You know you have succeeded in life when you work at a field named in your honor.

Most coaches are honored posthumously, but Martin has been a witness to all the fruits of his success. He’s been so good for so long

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that when the Seminole baseball team takes the field, they do so on Mike Martin Field.

In 2007, he was inducted into the American Baseball Coaches Association Hall of Fame.

But from the outside, no matter how many wins or accolades he receives, there’s always one question that everyone asks Mike Martin. Will Florida State ever win the College World Series?

The thought of winning it all in Omaha so consumed Martin that no one was allowed to say the word in his presence for a long time. Chip Baker was an assistant coach under Martin for 18 years and has spent another 12 seasons working in Jameis Winston, administration. For Martin is has three decades he’s convinced, what it takes to worked side by side play in the NFL with “11” and says and Major League despite what anyone Baseball. says, that World Series championship would mean the world to the Seminole skipper.

“It would be the cherry on top of the sundae of his whole career,” Baker said.

“It’s a fair question,” Martin said. “But I’m not obsessed (with winning a title). I don’t beat myself up like I used to. The goal is to get to Omaha. I made up my mind 20 years ago that I was not going to be Captain Ahab; I was going to work hard as I can, but I’m not going to allow winning a national championship or never winning one to define me.

I want to be remembered as a guy that did everything he could to make a player better and at the same time see these young men become great fathers and, in some cases, grandfathers.”

That’s right, Mike Martin has been at Florida State so long, some of his former players have grandkids.

His career at Florida State officially began in 1965 when Martin transferred to Tallahassee and played baseball for two years before graduating in 1966. (He would earn his Master’s Degree in 1971). But after a short stint in the minor leagues, he decided that it was coaching that he had a real passion for — so he returned to Tallahassee in search of a job.

And one came open. It now seems farfetched, but after hanging up his playing cleats for good, Mike Martin — one of the most successful college baseball coaches of all time —grabbed a whistle and became the head basketball — that’s right, basketball — coach at Tallahassee Community College and then Godby High School.

“Those were great days,” Martin remembers of his basketball coaching career. “I remember talking to my bride, and we were kicking around the idea of whether I wanted to (coach baseball at FSU) because I was the basketball coach at Godby. I went home and told her, ‘I don’t know if I want to go to FSU or not’ because I knew what was involved.

The hours would change and it would be a different lifestyle. She said, ‘Are you crazy?’”

As Mike Martin always says, a happy wife equals a happy life — and he took his own advice.

His deep Southern accent and quick wit made him popular with his players and fans alike. Spend an afternoon on the golf course with “11” and you soak in decades of knowledge. All the while, he’s shooting in the 80s while you spend half the afternoon looking for a ball in the woods. He’ll do it with a smile as long as it’s your ball and not his.

PHOTO COURTESY OF FLORIDA STATE ATHLETICS

MIKE MARTIN HALF LIFE

WHAT OTHERS ARE SAYING ABOUT

MIKE MARTIN

“If there’s a coach that deserves to win (the College World Series), it’s him. And I hope he does it before he retires. But if he doesn’t — if he doesn’t — it won’t take away from the career that that guy’s had.

It’s unparalleled.”

— Mike Fox, University of North Carolina baseball coach, from ESPN.com

“Our baseball program not only consistently wins but also excels in the classroom.”

— Randy Spetman, former Florida State University Athletic Director

“He hates to lose,” said Don DeLoach, who played on Martin’s first team at Florida State. “Whether it’s golf, badminton, baseball — whatever — he wants to beat your butt. He’s so competitive.”

But “11” is also Florida State’s biggest cheerleader and foremost advocate. When you need to close the deal, you send in Mike Martin to make it happen.

Martin’s son, Mike Martin Jr., has been an assistant coach at Florida State for 16 years and played for his father before that. He says he’s fascinated on a daily basis at his father’s determination and ability to mold men. That was never more apparent than in 2008 when the ’Noles were on the ropes in the regional playoffs, and “11” came to the rescue.

“We got shut out against Bucknell 8-0 in the first round of the regionals and, remember, we had the best offensive team in the country that year,” Martin Jr. recalls. “We

also hadn’t been to the College World Series in seven years — it was a big drought for us.

And he (Martin) came in the locker room after that loss and said, ‘This is what we are going to do. We are going to beat Florida tomorrow, we are going to beat Bucknell and then Tulane twice and this is how we are going to do it. If you don’t believe me, get out of the clubhouse now.’ No one left — and everything he said happened. We won the regional and advanced to the College World Series. It was one of the most powerful coaching moments I’ve ever seen.”

Over the past 35 years, Martin has given hundreds of those speeches and has also had the good fortune of coaching big name players like Deion Sanders, two-time World Series Champion Buster Posey, JD Drew, Stephen Drew, No. 1 overall pick Paul Wilson and now, Heisman Trophy winner Jameis Winston. In fact, when Martin was

“He’s a mentor from afar.

What you have here is because of him. Thirty years, to think that he was just starting coaching when I was graduating from high school is unbelievable.”

— Tim Corbin, Vanderbilt baseball coach, commenting after losing to FSU

“Here’s a guy I have been with for 30 years and, besides my Dad, he has been the most influential person in my life. I know what he wants. If he’s happy, I’m happy.”

— Chip Baker, Former Florida State assistant coach EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM June–July 2014

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SCOTT HOLSTEIN

MIKE MARTIN HALF LIFE

in New York for Winston’s Heisman Trophy banquet, he was recognized in Times Square as “Jameis Winston’s coach” — a moniker that Martin embraces with opens arms.

“I honestly think that Jameis Winston wants to be the next two-sport guy,” Martin said. “He wants to play in the NFL and in Major League Baseball, and he has that chance — he’s that good. He got back on a Tuesday night after winning the National Championship, came to our baseball meeting on There’s a family Wednesday, was takresemblance ing batting practice between “11” and his son and on Thursday and namesake (aka then accepted the “Meat”), who have Manning award on been coaching the Seminoles together Friday. Everyone for 16 years. wants to talk to him, and he’s so nice he’ll talk to everyone and sign every autograph.”

While Winston steals a lot of the headlines, Martin has his own fan club that spans the country. How popular is Martin outside the walls of Dick Howser Stadium?

Baker says everywhere he goes, people ask about his boss, from the average fan to the sports superstar.

“I just ran into Alex Rodriguez in Houston and the first thing he asked me was, ‘How is Coach Martin?’ I saw Charles Barkley on a plane — he says, ‘How’s Coach Martin?’ Every person I know knows me through Coach Martin.”

He’s a teacher, an educator, motivator, cheerleader and family man. It’s no wonder his son, “Junior,” has stayed in Tallahassee for so long. He could have left for a head coaching position on numerous occasions, but you don’t pass up an opportunity to work with Mike Martin — even if he’s your father.

“That’s how you draw it up, it’s the American dream,” said Mike Martin Jr. “You work your tail off, do things right and good things happen to you. It’s amazing he’s 70 and still going strong with the fire and passion. He’s a good man.”

Speaking of Mike Junior, “11” says that having his son by his side all these years has been a blessing. Some of his greatest memories in the game involve his son — including one when, for one moment in time, Martin stepped aside as head coach of the ’Noles and took in the action as a dad.

“When we went to Omaha in ’94, Mike Jr. was on deck and Doug Mientkiewicz was hitting and I’m flashing signs and all of a sudden I’m thinking there’s Doug’s mom and dad watching their son play and

50 sets of mommas and dads are watching their sons play, and they are getting to enjoy the fruits of those young men’s hard work to accomplish what they have. I’m a coach and my son is on deck and I’ll be coaching him and I said, ‘Dadgummit, when he walks up there, I’m not coaching, I’m going to sit there as a daddy and look back on the days we hit in the batting cage and enjoy this.’”

So Martin stopped coaching for a few minutes. He didn’t give a sign to the base runners and didn’t tell his son what to do.

Naturally, both were wondering what was happening in the dugout, but after Mientkiewicz singled, Martin decided to soak in the moment.

“We were in the first base dugout and I looked around the field and looked at the 24,000 people and worked my way around the stadium,” Martin said, “I knew he’d be looking at me, and I did glance at him but I didn’t acknowledge him. The third pitch, he hit a line drive up the middle for a base hit. Once he did that, I became a coach again; but that moment, being a proud father, is one I will never forget.”

“We are constantly on the go,” said Martin Jr. “He’s my boss and my dad, which is pretty cool. There are times I’ll see him after ball games and he’s working with my kids and I say, that’s pretty neat because he’s enjoying spending that time with his grandkids and my boys are enjoying time with him. One day life will calm down, and we’ll reflect and cherish what he’s done.”

Mike Martin has molded men for over 35 years. His legend is so deep at Florida State that no coach will ever surpass it, nor will any coach have the luxury of coaching at the same school for as long as “11” has. We live in a “What have you done for me lately” world where coaches come and go in three to five years — even when they are winning. Now at 70, Martin isn’t going anywhere despite questions about how much longer he can lead the ’Noles. Even “Junior” says he doesn’t know how long his dad will coach Florida State but says anyone who thinks he’ll hang it up soon will be sorely disappointed.

“He doesn’t like talking about it. People ask me about it all the time, and I don’t know — no one does,” said Martin Jr. “I think the day he can’t get into a fielding position to throw or get up and down like he does — maybe then he’ll consider it, but I don’t see that happening in the near future. He’s still going strong and still enjoys it.” ec

See video at emeraldcoastmagazine.com EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM June–July 2014

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EC ALL-STAR S

Play Ball!

1

AJA BRECHTEL

NICEVILLE HIGH SCHOOL, CLASS OF 2014 PITCHER

2

AUDREY DIEKMANN

NICEVILLE HIGH SCHOOL, CLASS OF 2014 FIRST BASE

PLENTY OF OPPORTUNITIES FOR SEASONAL FUN ON THE DIAMOND All along the Emerald Coast, youngsters and those who remain young at heart wait patiently through the winter for that inspiring sound of someone hollering, “Play ball!” These days, that can mean boys and girls starting as young as 4 years old, or adults of any age ranging into their 60s. Want to join in America’s favorite pastime? Here’s your chance. // THOMAS J. MONIGAN

DESTIN LITTLE LEAGUE Tee Ball ages 4–6

Games are played at City Hall ball fields.

Machine Pitch Baseball ages 7–8

ADULT SLOW PITCH SOFTBALL Men’s League and Church League

Kid Pitch Baseball, ages 9–10 Kid Pitch Majors Baseball ages 11–12 Kid Pitch Juniors/Seniors Baseball, ages 13–16 Machine Pitch Softball ages 7–10 Majors Fast Pitch Softball ages 9–12 Games are played at Dalton Threadgill Park and the Morgan Sports Complex.

For more information, visit destinlittleleague.net.

Destin Adult softball and kickball played at the Morgan Sports Complex.

Games are played at the Okaloosa County Fairgrounds and Chester Pruitt Park.

FREEPORT YOUTH SPORTS Tee Ball ages 4–7 Machine Pitch Baseball ages 8–9 Minors Kid Pitch Baseball ages 9–10

Machine Pitch ages 7–8

Games are played at City Hall ball fields, Ferry Park, Jet Drive and Seabreeze Park.

YOUTH GIRLS SOFTBALL LEAGUE Machine Pitch ages 9–12

70 June–July 2014

A recent Niceville graduate, AJA BRECHTEL is headed for a bright future playing college ball at one of the nations most prestigious institutions.

Brechtel, who received a full scholarship to the United States Military Academy for her efforts as the varsity team’s top pitcher, is known on the field as a true leader. “She is one of the most fierce competitors I’ve ever coached,” explained Coach Danny Hensley. “She’s one of those kids who goes out and fights tooth and nail and puts her heart soul in every play of every game.”

A positive attitude can go a long way in team sports. Destined to play college ball at the University of West Alabama, AUDREY DIEKMANN is praised for having exactly that. Said to be the first one at the field and the last one to leave, Diekemann is the type of teammate you want on your side. “She’s a lead-by-example player,” said Coach Danny Hensley.

“Everybody knows that she’s giving 110 percent, all the time.”

“It helps the attitude of the whole team. She’s a great leader and is going to make a great officer.”

- Coach Hensley

“She’s a natural born hitter. She’s going to be one of those college players that really excels at the next level.” - Coach Hensley.

Slow Pitch Softball, ages 7–8 Fast Pitch Softball, ages 11–12 Games are played at the Freeport Regional Sports Complex.

For more information, find Freeport Youth Sports on Facebook.

Kid Pitch Minors ages 9–10 Kid Pitch Majors ages 11–12

BATTING AVERAGE: .360 BATTING AVG. WITH RUNNERS IN SCORING POSITION: .495 FIELDING PERCENTAGE: .977 ON BASE PERCENTAGE: .495

Majors Kid Pitch Baseball ages 11–12 Fast Pitch Softball, ages 9–10

FORT WALTON BEACH YOUTH BOYS BASEBALL LEAGUE Tee Ball ages 5–6

EARNED RUN AVERAGE: 2.63 HITS: 65 WALKS: 26 STRIKEOUTS: 116

GULF BREEZE SPORTS ASSOCIATION Tee Ball 1, ages 4–5 (co-ed) Tee Ball 2, ages 5–6 (co-ed) Rookie Ball Machine pitch ages 7–8 Minors Kid Pitch, ages 9–10

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM

Majors Kid Pitch, ages 11–12 Seniors Kid Pitch, ages 13–14 Coach Pitch Softball, ages 7–8 Kid Fast Pitch Softball, ages 9–10

NAVARRE YOUTH SPORTS ASSOCIATION Tee Ball ages 4–5 1/2

Fast Pitch Softball, ages 13–16

Tee Ball ages 5 ½–6

For more information, visit nysasports.com.

Machine Pitch, ages 6–8

12 and Under Kid Fast Pitch Softball, ages 11­–12

Kid Pitch Minors, ages 9–10

16 and Under Kid Fast Pitch Softball, ages 13–16

Kid Pitch Pony ages, 13–15

Games are played at Shoreline Park.

For more information, visit gbsasports.com and gulfbreezerecreationcenter.com.

Kid Pitch Majors, ages 11–12 Coach Pitch Softball, ages 7–8 Fast Pitch Softball, ages 9–10 Fast Pitch Softball, ages 11–12

Games are played at the Navarre Youth Sports Complex.

NICEVILLE– VALPARAISO LITTLE LEAGUE Tee Ball, age 4 Coach Pitch Baseball ages 5–6 Machine Pitch Baseball ages 7–8

MIKE MARTIN HALF LIFE

PHOTOS BY PURE 7 STUDIOS (BRECHTEL, DIEKMANN, DUNGAN, MOORE AND STEWART) AND COURTESY ROCKY BAYOU CHRISTIAN SCHOOL (HOLCOMB)

3

DREW DUNGAN

NICEVILLE HIGH SCHOOL, CLASS OF 2014 PITCHER

4

SAM HOLCOMB

ROCKY BAYOU CHRISTIAN SCHOOL, CLASS OF 2016 PITCHER

5

CODY MOORE

NICEVILLE HIGH SCHOOL, CLASS OF 2014 THIRD BASE, PITCHER

6

GRANT STEWART

PAXTON HIGH SCHOOL, CLASS OF 2016 PITCHER, FIRST BASE, CENTER FIELD

EARNED RUN AVERAGE: 1.32 OPP. BATTING AVERAGE: .206 COMPLETE GAMES: 2 STRIKEOUTS: 72 (IN 69 INNINGS)

14 WINS, 3 LOSSES EARNED RUN AVERAGE: 0.03 COMPLETE GAMES: 17 STRIKEOUTS: 191

BATTING AVERAGE: .385 RUNS BATTED IN: 20 HITS: 35 DOUBLES: 10

BATTING AVERAGE: .529 EARNED RUN AVERAGE: 0.53 STRIKEOUTS: 67 (IN 40 INNINGS) SLUGGING PERCENTAGE: .743

From soccer to basketball, DREW DUNGAN has always been athletically minded. In the world of baseball though, Dungan is a true champion, helping pitch his team to victory every chance he gets. In his high school career, Dungan was an instrumental part of the Niceville team. “He goes out and wins baseball games for us,” beamed Coach Joe Nedoroscik. Described by those close to him as a confident player, Dungan’s ambitions for his future in collegiate and professional ball are limitless.

Coming from a dynasty of collegiate level players, baseball runs in SAM HOLCOMB’s veins. “She’s very strong and a fierce competitor,” said mother and high school coach Lynn Holcomb.

“She loves to play.” As for the future, this all-star player is looking forward to finishing out her successful high school career, and has her eye set on a college scholarship.

CODY MOORE is a “strong” player in every sense of the word. Moore is known as a hard hitter and a versatile member of the Niceville team. “He knocks in a lot of our runs,” said Coach Joe Nedoroscik. “He also plays the outfield for us.” Also among Moore’s most noteworthy attributes is his laid-back disposition, a big plus when tensions run high in a heated game. As a pitcher, he’s been clocked at more than 90 miles an hour.

“He’s very in control of his emotions, and he plays the game at a real relaxed level.”

- Coach Nedoroscik

On Paxton High School’s varsity baseball team, GRANT STEWART is known as “the guy” to his fellow teammates. A leader in academics as well as athletics, Stewart has been playing varsity ball since the 7th grade.

Today, he’s as comfortable pitching as he is playing first base and center field. As for the future, Stewart’s got his heart set on playing at the collegiate level — a goal his coach is certain he won’t have any problem achieving.

“He’s just a great kid. As far as a baseball standpoint, he’s the leader. Everyone rallies behind him. They look up to him, even though he’s an underclassman.”

- Coach Chris Davenport

“He’s our No. 1 pitcher for the team. He’s a big part of our success.” - Coach Nedoroscik

“My advice would be to always play hard and to remember where her talent came from. We believe in trying to honor the Lord with what we do on the softball field.

Enjoy every minute.”

– Lynn Holcomb, coach/mother

Kid Pitch Minors, ages 9–10

Women’s Slow pitch Softball

Kid Pitch Majors, ages 11–12

Co-ed Slow pitch Softball

Teen League Baseball ages 13–18 Games are played at Twin Oaks Park in Niceville and Rarick Park in Valparaiso.

For more information, visit info@nvllb.net.

NICEVILLE RECREATION Girls Fast Pitch Softball, ages 5–12 Men’s Slow Pitch Softball

Games are played at Niceville Recreation Complex.

OKALOOSA MEN’S BASEBALL Ages 18+ Games are played at Jet Drive in FWB and at Twin Oaks in Niceville For more information, visit ombl.org.

MEN’S SLOW PITCH SOFTBALL

Machine Pitch, ages 7–8

Kid Pitch Minors, ages 9–10

CO-ED SLOW PITCH SOFTBALL

Majors Kid Pitch, ages 11–12

Kid Pitch Majors, ages 11–12

ADULT KICKBALL

Kid Pitch Seniors, ages 13–14

Games are played at Roger Scott Sports Complex and Exchange Park.

PENSACOLA BILL BOND BASEBALL Coach Pitch, ages 7–8

Games are played at Roger Scott Recreation Complex.

For more information, visit billbond.org.

GIRLS SOFTBALL Tee Ball, ages 5­­­–6

SOUTH WALTON DIXIE LEAGUE YOUTH BASEBALL Tee Ball, ages 5–6

Minors Kid Pitch, ages 9–10 Majors Kid Pitch, ages 13–14 SOUTH WALTON YOUTH FAST PITCH SOFTBALL Ages 7–12 Games are played at Helen McCall Park in Santa Rosa Beach.

For more information, call (850) 380-5639.

Fast Pitch, ages 7–16 EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM June–July 2014

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Jacksonville & St. Augustine // Orlando // Destin & Navarre // Rosemary Beach // Tallahassee

great florida

getaways Seven SENSATIONAL Summer Break SPOTS Around the Sunshine State

You don’t have to venture far to take a break this summer. From romantic spots to adventures in treetops, the Sunshine State is filled with must-see great getaways. We share some of our favorite “drive to” destinations along with some relaxing vacation spots located right here on the Emerald Coast. // PHOTO BY SCOTT HOLSTEIN EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM June–July 2014

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// Jacksonville & St. Augustine

Florida’s Historic Coast Northeast Florida Offers Great Museums, History and Entertainment

BY JASON DEHART

Museums, especially those

geared toward young crowds, have changed dramatically in recent years and are no longer purely educational. “Edu-tainment” is the big thing now, and the interactive, entertaining museums of Jacksonville and St. Augustine are good examples of that philosophy.

For example, the Bryan Gooding Planetarium at the Museum of Science & History in Jacksonville isn’t some dusty old optical projector that throws specks of light on a ceiling.

It’s now a computerized, digital and highdefinition projection system that can put you in orbit around any planet in the solar system for an up-close look. Or, you can watch a movie about dinosaurs that really surrounds you with sight and sound.

And at the nearby Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens (which celebrates its 100th anniversary this year and is famous for its jaguars), it’s not just exotic animals anymore.

There’s a butterfly garden, and kids will 74 June–July 2014

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM

squeal with fear and delight at the newest attractions: a jungle trail of animatronic dinosaurs and a 4D “Ice Age” ride. Every Halloween there is a 10-day “Spooktacular” kid-friendly event, and at Christmas the entire park is lit up in holiday style.

Executive Director Tony Vecchio knows too well that museums like his have to be creative in order to survive.

“We have to generate our own revenue today,” he said. “The old days of the city paying for the zoo are long gone.”

Sometimes, though, a new museum comes along that has the backing of private, deep pockets. Such is the case of the new St. Augustine Pirate & Treasure Museum, which opened in 2010. Described by travel writers as “Disney meets the Smithsonian,” the pirate museum is the brainchild of entrepreneur Pat Croce, former president of the Philadelphia 76ers and relic hunter supreme.

Croce had a pirate museum in Key West for a few years before moving to St. Augustine, and his new museum stronghold boasts such treasures as the only known surviving example of a “pirate chest,” as well as the prop sword Johnny Depp used in the “Pirates of the Caribbean” movies.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF COLONIAL QUARTER, ST. AUGUSTINE PIRATE & TREASURE MUSEUM, JACKSONVILLE ZOO GARDENS AND MUSEUM OF SCIENCE & HISTORY

The Northeast Florida coast is home to several educational sites, including St. Augustine’s Colonial Quarter (opposite page), home to costumed interpreters and hands-on experiences. Other fun activities include the Pirate and Treasure Museum (above), thrilling shows at the Bryan Gooding Planetarium (left) and the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens (far left).

GETTING THERE Take Interstate 10 straight into Jacksonville; or, if you have your sights set on the Nation’s Oldest City, take I-10 to I-295 and then hop on I-95 south for about 25 miles.

WHERE TO STAY AND WHAT TO SEE

JACKSONVILLE ZOO & GARDENS 370 Zoo Parkway, Jacksonville, (904) 757-4463, jacksonvillezoo.org MUSEUM OF SCIENCE & HISTORY 1025 Museum Circle, Jacksonville, (904) 396-6674, themosh.org ST. AUGUSTINE PIRATE & TREASURE MUSEUM 12 S. Castillo Dr., St. Augustine, (877) 467-5863, thepiratemuseum.com COLONIAL QUARTER 33 St. George St., St. Augustine, (904) 342-2857, colonialquarter.com

Right next door is the new Colonial Quarter, a living history village where serious academic research rubs shoulders with actors and re-enactors to tell the story of St. Augustine’s colonial days. Here you can explore four historical periods ranging from 16th-century Spanish settlement up to 18th-century British occupation. It’s a very interactive experience; you can climb a watchtower, watch a blacksmith in action, see what’s clicking at the gunsmith’s shop and get schooled in the 18th-century musket drill or try your hand at leatherworking. Don’t worry about standing in lines waiting for a linear time progression, because visitors can enter the village from four access points. And after touring the various centuries, a Spanish taberna and a British pub await your taste buds with appropriate noms and libations.

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM June–July 2014

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// Orlando

A Whole New World Multi-Million-Dollar Renovation Makes Orlando World Center Marriott Even Better

BY ROSANNE DUNKELBERGER

times to the nearly new Orlando World Center Marriott for the annual convention in the summer. At the time, it was one of the few resorts in the state with enough meeting space (lawyers do love their meetings) and rooms to accommodate such a large group. It was an impressive, colossal place, just a stone’s throw from Disney and Sea World and the perfect place for families to enjoy themselves while their Bar member attended all those meetings.

So, when the opportunity presented itself to return, I was intrigued.

As Orlando’s resort scene has grown in the past 25 years, would it still have the power to impress? Would it be as dazzling as I remembered?

The answer is yes … and yes.

The soaring lobby was nothing like I remembered and the rooms — there are 2,009 of them — had been through a few rounds of redecorating in the ensuing quarter century, but the sheer size of the resort and the mass of humanity buzzing in and around the place was still pretty remarkable.

And then, I looked out back.

When I was there last summer, the World Center had just completed a huge renovation, and the most visible result was the resort’s Falls Pool Oasis area. It was — in a word — massive. There were acres of deck, tropical landscaping and a kid-pleasing walk-in pool with fountains, bubblers, spray jets and water cannons. And above it all, a tower featuring two water slides — a 200-foot-long winding slide and another that offered a thrilling 90-foot straight drop. Many a child is willing to forego the “worlds” for a day or two to stay and enjoy the resort’s waterpark-like amenities.

The pool and other amenities make it the perfect place for a convention. But all of the stuff that make it so attractive to large groups is there for vacationing travelers to enjoy, too.

No need to leave the resort for a world-class dining experience; the World Center has 10 dining options, from the grab-and-go convenience of the lobby Starbucks and the Mangrove Emporium food court to fine dining at Hawk’s Landing Steakhouse & Grille, the Mikado Japanese Steakhouse and it’s newest offering, Siro. The latter is an eclectic place: rustic yet urban, and Italian without the checkered tablecloths and standard pasta in red sauce. If your timing is right, they might be offering one of their wine dinners. You’re going to want to reserve a seat as Chef Anthony Burdo sends out multiple courses, each paired with wines for a night of gustatory delights.

The resort is also home to Hawk’s Landing Golf Club, an 18-hole, par 71 championship golf course designed by golf architect Robert Cupp Jr. Many Trip Advisor reviewers called it “fun” with an attentive staff, both on the course and in the pro shop. At 6,600 feet, it’s relatively short. But with abundant water features, it offers a challenge to low-handicap golfers.

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PHOTOS COURTESY OF ORLANDO WORLD CENTER MARRIOTT

In the late ’80s, I worked for The Florida Bar and went several

If your golfing skills could use a little help, consider a seminar at the Bill Madonna Golf Academy, onsite at Hawk’s Landing. Madonna has been teaching for more than 30 years and breaks down the basics with a bagful of acronyms and sayings. Even the rankest amateur (that would be me) will have a respectable swing at the end of a short seminar by following his CHEF approach (Club down, Hands on, Eyes on the target and Feet parallel to the target) and two-step swing motion. I was having a little trouble during the swing getting my club to “brush” the ground as Madonna advised until I realized I was wearing bifocals, which kind of messed up the depth perception.

And if you’re ready to shed the stresses of work and life, treat yourself to a visit to The Spa at Orlando World Center Marriott. They have a full menu of massages, body treatments, facials, manicures and pedicures. The Spa’s signature massage is a treat. Named Around the World in Eighty Minutes, you’ll experience a sampling of some of the best relaxation techniques from near and far, such as China (hot stones), Sweden (massage), Egypt (reflexology), Hawaii (Lomilomi) and France (aromatherapy).

A recent multimillion-dollar renovation added a pool area with giant slides and enough other activities to keep the family fun going all day long.

IF YOU GO Take Interstate 10 east and Interstate 75 south to Florida’s Turnpike. Take the Interstate 4 exit and head west toward Tampa for about 10 miles, taking the SR-535 S exit toward Kissimmee. Follow the signs to the World Center.

ORLANDO WORLD CENTER MARRIOTT 8701 World Center Drive, (800) 780-5727, (407) 239-4200, marriott.com/hotels/hotel-information/travel/ mcowc-orlando-world-center-marriott/

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Together Time Whether You Seek a Romantic Retreat or Family Bonding, the Panhandle’s the Place to Be

BY ROSANNE DUNKELBERGER

My kids are grown now, but when they were younger, I en-

joyed all sorts of vacations with them — all-day extravaganzas at big, boisterous theme parks, getting waterlogged and sunburned at water parks, exploring natural wonders. Some of the best times on these trips were those moments between the photo ops where we just hung out and enjoyed each other’s company.

But there were other times (round-number anniversaries come to mind) where I was more than happy to leave the youngsters behind to spend romantic one-on-one time with my husband unbothered by my — or anybody else’s, for that matter — children.

This spring, I was able to get a taste of both sorts of getaways within an hour of each other along the Emerald Coast.

For romance, nothing beats Destin’s Henderson Park Inn. And when it’s time to bring the kids along, you’ll find a variety of fun family activities just down the road at the beaches and rivers of Santa Rosa County, which bills itself as “Florida’s Playground.”

IN THE MOOD FOR LOVE? When I say nothing beats this charming clapboard beachfront inn, I mean it quite literally. Trip Advisor reviewers rated it the area’s No. 1 hotel and one of the Top 10 Hotels for Romance, while other sites and awards have praised its romantic allure.

You’ll feel special when you’re greeted by the innkeeper at check-in, because with just 36 rooms throughout the entire property — you are. You’ll be shown the beach-view dining room, where a full breakfast is served every morning and a box lunch will be waiting for you to eat there or take along for your day’s adventures. By night, it becomes the elegant Beach Walk Café, serving gourmet Gulf Coast cuisine, with a soupcon of Italian and French influences. Dining

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on the Sky View Deck is an option or, for the ultimate in romance, you can choose a Toes in the Sand dining experience.

Breakfast and lunch are included in the room charge, as well as other amenities that include a happy hour on the deck (perfect for watching the sun set over the Gulf waters), a 24hour coffee service and a help-yourself fridge stocked with candy bars, sodas and waters. You’ll never be splashed by youngsters in the pool because children aren’t allowed and, well, there isn’t a pool on the property. But there is a capacious pair of hammocks tucked under the deck just perfect for a relaxing snuggle.

Love is most certainly in the air when you enter your room, where roses, wine and chocolate set on a tray on the bed await you. Most rooms also offer a spacious whirlpool tub, a small balcony and a million-dollar view of the Gulf.

While some parts of Destin are rollicking day and night, the Henderson Inn is on a quieter offshoot of Highway 98. If you’re interested in seeing and being seen, head east and ride the back streets on one of the Inn’s complimentary bicycles.

But you’ll find a special treat to the west — the Inn property abuts Henderson Beach State Park. Destin Harbor is visible in the distance, but for more than a mile, there’s nothing but dunes, sand pines, pristine beach — and each other — to enjoy.

FAMILY FUN FROM BEACHES TO RIVERS If your crew is rarin’ to go, there’s plenty of fun to be had in Santa Rosa County. Not to be confused with Walton County’s Santa Rosa Beach, this is a county that stretches from the Gulf of Mexico to the Georgia state line. The pace is a little slower than Destin to the east or Pensacola to the west, but that makes it all the easier to enjoy the area’s natural wonders.

Navarre Beach is the Gulf-end place to enjoy in Santa Rosa County, and its accommodations feature a row of condominium towers and individual houses that make for a nottoo-crowded beach scene. The landmark is the 1,545-foot-long Navarre Beach Pier, which has to be one of the cheapest thrills I’ve ever enjoyed. Admission is a buck per person ($7 if you

PHOTOS BY SCOTT HOLSTEIN (ZOO) AND COURTESY OF HENDERSON PARK INN

// Destin & Navarre

IF YOU GO Head east on U.S. Highway 98 to get to the inn, or take the Mid-Bay Bridge toll road, which terminates very close to the property. To get to Navarre Beach, travel a little farther down I-10 and take the Highway 87 exit south.

HENDERSON PARK INN 2700 Scenic Highway 98, hendersonparkinn.com, beachwalkhendersonpark.com, (850) 269-8646 NAVARRE BEACH VISITOR CENTER 8543 Navarre Parkway, floridasplayground.com, (850) 939-2691 GULF BREEZE ZOO 5701 Gulf Breeze Parkway, gulfbreezezoo.org, (850) 932-2229 ADVENTURES UNLIMITED OUTDOOR CENTER 8974 Tomahawk Landing Road, Milton, adventuresunlimited.com, (850) 623-6197 GULF BLUE VACATIONS 8499 Gulf Boulevard, gulfbluevacations.com, 1 (800) 242-3224

want to fish and tackle is available to rent) and gives you the run of the longest pier in Florida and the Gulf of Mexico.

The original pier took a double wallop from Hurricane Ivan in 2004 and then Hurricane Dennis in 2005 and its massive (and hurricane resistant) concrete replacement opened in 2010. It’s a third-mile walk to the end. In fact, the contractor kicked in for the labor and materials to make it 45 feet longer than originally planned, so it would take “longest pier” honors. It’s a show as you walk along, with anglers reeling in ladyfish almost as soon as their bait hits the water.

But the real action is found at the octagonal fishing deck at the end of the pier. During my visit, the fishermen were literally running from one side to the other, attempting to catch a pair of cobia swimming around the pilings, then speculating on whether the fish that was eventually hooked would be long enough to be declared a keeper.

I was able to enjoy some $2 beers and a cousin of that cobia at the casual, cabana-style eatery at the pier entrance.

Set aside at least part of one day to visit the Gulf Breeze Zoo. At 50 acres, it’s not huge by zoo standards, but there are more than 900 animals on site and many, many delightful opportunities to get up close and personal with the inhabitants.

Be sure to buy everyone in your group a cup of animal food and a Budgie Stick before you begin to The quiet and seclusion of the explore. Children (OK, and more Henderson Park Inn than a few adults) will be thrilled (above) offers the to hand feed and give a scratch to perfect setting for romance. Everyone many animals, including camels, will have fun giraffes, llamas, water buffalo and feeding the animals (left) at the Gulf the cutest baby goats and bunnies Breeze Zoo. you’ll ever see. At the aviary, you’re sure to make friends with several free-flying budgies (aka parakeets) who will light on the Popsicle stick you’re holding and gobble down the seeds stuck to the end.

Stroll along a boardwalk or, for an additional fee, the cute Safari Line Limited train will take you through several free-range habitats, where you’ll see gorillas, hippos, zebra, antelope, ostrich and more.

While the area’s beaches are sublime, you simply must (I insist!) travel inland for a different sort of natural Florida experience. Santa Rosa County boasts historic areas like the charming town of Milton. About a half-hour drive north of the beach, it sits on the banks of the Blackwater River, which itself offers myriad opportunities for outdoor activity.

A great one-stop place for these experiences is Adventures Unlimited, located about 15 miles north of Milton.

Located on the banks of the Coldwater Creek near the Blackwater River State Park, it started out as an outfitting company in the late ’70s for canoeing and kayaking.

Those are still popular activities today, along with tubing and stand-up paddleboarding, but the facility has grown to include accommodations — from primitive camping to a luxurious, romantic tree house called the Lorax Loft — and a thrilling collection of zip lines.

What you won’t find are clocks, televisions, radios, Internet or decent cellphone service. And that’s on purpose, according to founder/owner Jack Sanborn. “We subscribe to a No Child Left Inside policy,” he says. “People find themselves here.”

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The Pearl New Boutique Hotel Brings a New Level of Luxury and Service to Rosemary Beach

BY JACK MACALEAVY

It takes years to create, is simple and unique and is one of nature’s

most beautiful creations — the pearl. Nestled on 30A, within the confines of Rosemary Beach, after years of meticulous work and a great investment by two visionaries, a simple and unique boutique hotel — The Pearl — opened its doors early last fall.

Although it takes a year or so to qualify and be designated as a five-star property, there’s no question in my mind that The Pearl and it’s Havana Beach Bar and Grill will earn this award, hands down. Not a detail was overlooked nor an expense spared in the development of this 55-room property. From the moment you enter the lobby, you know you are in for an exquisite experience.

You’ll be warmly greeted by the reception staff, who will personally escort you

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to your room and orient you to the many extravagant amenities — such as a bedside iPad to call up your car, set your dinner reservation or read one of several online newspapers.

You have a choice of Direct TV or Apple TV on the large flat-screen and can sip chilled water that has been filtered to perfection at the property’s distillery. Everything — from the lighting package and furniture, to the carpet and bedding — is a couple notches above what you might find in most of the country’s finest hotels.

One of 30A’s renowned photographers, Tommy Crow, was commissioned and sent to Cuba to capture images of people and the island nation’s ’50s-era lifestyle that has been frozen in time. This pictorial art is seen throughout the hotel and perfectly sets the mood of an international experience. He also captured video of everyday life that has been edited and plays silently on screens at the resort’s fine dining restaurant, the Havana Beach Bar & Grill.

Executive Chef Michael Guerra, from Montage in Park City, Utah, has created a dining experience that only one, or maybe two, Northwest Florida restaurants could compare to.

His cuisine is a fusion of ingredients and flavor found in the

PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE PEARL AND TOMMY CROW (EXTERIOR AND POOL)

// Rosemary Beach

Gulf and Northwest Florida.

Everything is fresh and made The Pearl (opposite from scratch. In all of the dining page) is the newest addition experiences of my life, Wade, to the ambience of our server, ranks in the top five, Rosemary Beach.

The boutique creating an experience it would hotel’s unique be hard to find anywhere. The environment is bar is a re-creation from Ernest obvious as you enter the lobby (above) Hemingway’s home in Havana and in its luxurious — it is the focal point of the resappointments taurant and produces an array of including (left, top to bottom) the traditional Southern cocktails island-style Havana that complement the cuisine Beach Bar & Grill, the pool area and and overall experience of fine the guest rooms. dining or just hanging out. The décor includes a 1938 mug shot of a 23-year-old Frank Sinatra hanging over the piano bar. The charge against him, it says, was “seduction.”

The hotel and restaurant, as well as Sol Luna, its cabana poolside bar and eatery, and Spa Pearl are fast becoming 30A’s hot spot for the “players” of Walton County to see and be seen.

The back of your door card sums up the experience that awaits you for a getaway weekend: “Today is a great day to fall in love all over again.”

You will not regret this investment in your emotional, mental and gastronomic health.

IF YOU GO Find this luxury hotel in the heart of Rosemary Beach on the east end of 30A off of Highway 98.

THE PEARL 63 Main St., Rosemary Beach, thepearlrb.com, (850) 588-2881 HAVANA BEACH BAR & GRILL (850) 588-2882

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Tallahassee

After You “Do” The Capitol, Consider Another Side of Tallahassee — The Natural One

BY ZANDRA WOLFGRAM

Starting with the lush canopy created by lumbering live oaks, handsome hickory and sweet gum trees shading the town’s meandering, hilly roads, Florida’s charming capital city is an unexpected breath of fresh air. And that’s exactly what you’ll get when you choose from any number of outdoor excursions that await the young at heart. From invigorating mountain bike treks through state parks and tarzan-inspired tree-top ziplines above Cypress marshes to peaceful kayak and pontoon boat rides down the crisp, crystal-clear manatee-manned rivers of Wakulla Springs — there is an adventure awaiting. All you need to bring is your sense of spirit!

Dining in Tallahassee is a bit of an adventure, too. With Tupelo honey infused in everything from salad dressing to ice cream and Gulf coast shrimp and grits reinvented on nearly every restaurant menu, it’s clear that the natural bounty harvested for Tallahassee’s culinary scene offers delicious twists on traditional Southern themes.

New places such as The Front Porch bring casual elegance to dining, which is especially pleasant outside under the stars. Wakulla Springs Lodge may be low key, but Chef Jodi Perez’ menu is pretty 82 June–July 2014

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jazzy — the Bee Charmer Salad is a must try. The entrees at Cypress are as beautiful as the vibrant art collection. And for a big bite of soulful cooking, Paisley is the place to go. The menu and atmosphere are as charming and memorable as Kiersten Worrell, the owner, who asks of her Smoked Gouda Grits with a side of Apple Butter, “Can you taste the love?” The answer, if you can put your fork down long enough to utter it, is a resounding, “You betcha Chocolate Chip Whipping Cream Biscuits!”

Adventure continues into wee hours with several watering holes.

Andrew’s Capital Bar & Grill and Madison Social are great hot spots to see and be seen toasting friends with trendy cocktails, but venturing outside of town to Bradfordville Blues Club tucked behind a

PHOTOS BY SCOTT HOLSTEIN (HOTEL DUVAL), TRISTIN KROENING (CRAB CAKES), MIKE SCHWARZ (ZIPLINE)

// Tallahassee

I Heart Tally.

You Will Too. stand of live oak trees dripping in Spanish moss is where you’ll find (Counter clockwise) Tallahassee Tree authentic blues music and plenty of to Tree Adventures music-loving locals kicking up their says it all; Hotel heels in what is essentially an oldDuval is a “green” safe haven; The style juke joint.

Front Porch has a But you don’t have to go far to laid-back vibe with hear great tunes in Tallahassee. We a contemporary menu like this happened upon acoustic singer Allie fresh take on a McKay on a Saturday afternoon at traditional crab cake appetizer.

Downtown Marketplace. Here, you can nibble freshly popped kettle corn and sip fresh squeezed lemonade, browse arts and crafts and farmer’s market-style booths, and enjoy a free concert in the fresh sunshine.

Hotel Duval, located in the heart of downtown, is the perfect central staging area for an eco-adventure. This chic boutique hotel effortlessly combines luxury with natural elements. Even the hotel’s signature scents such as level two: Serene Green with Green Clover & Aloe inspire you to go explore and drink in the out of doors. Now, that’s what we call a “green hotel.” The different sensory scents found on each floor is just one example of the attention to detail you’ll find in this trendy, upscale hotel. But if getting closer to nature is your intention, try the historic Wakulla Springs Lodge. Built in the 1930s, it features 27 quirky yet quaint guest rooms, each with a spacious marble bathroom, walkin closet, and antique or period furniture.

Yes, we “went green” in Tallahassee. And we can’t wait to go “au natural” in the capital city again.

VisitTallahassee.com 800.628.2866

AD

GETTING THERE DISTANCE FROM DESTIN: 165 MILES DRIVING TIME: 2 HOURS, 45 MINUTES (Don’t forget about the time change. Tallahassee is on Eastern time.) Take U.S. 331 North to Interstate 10.

Travel east 114 miles, and get off at Exit 199 (U.S. 27) and go south, which will take you directly to Tallahassee’s downtown area.

AMAZING MUST DO ADVENTURES MOUNTAIN BIKE TRAIL RIDING ELINOR KLAPP PHIPPS PARK 4000 N. Meridian Rd., (850) 891-3866 MANATEE KAYAK TOURS TNT HIDE-A-WAY RENTAL 6527 Coastal Hwy, Crawfordville, (850) 925-6412 RANGER-LED RIVER BOAT TOUR EDWARD BALL WAKULLA SPRINGS STATE PARK (850) 245-2157 TALLAHASSEE TREE TO TREE ADVENTURES (LOCATED ON SITE AT THE TALLAHASSEE MUSEUM) (850) 575-8684 TALLAHASSEE DOWNTOWN MARKETPLACE PONCE DE LEON PARK (Every Saturday, 9 a.m.– 2 p.m., March through November) BRADFORDVILLE BLUES CLUB 7152 Moses Lane, (850) 906-0766 EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM June–July 2014

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2014 PRESENTING SPONSOR: THE CENTER FOR COSMETIC & FAMILY DENTISTRY

Atmosphere The Emerald Ballroom at the Hilton

Sandestin was full of excitement at the Emerald Coast Top Salon event. Local salons showed off their most creative styling tactics on their models. From changing hair color to upending personal style, the runway results were nothing short of spectacular for each of the 10 deserving models. Sponsors of the event included Dr. Dennis Lichorwic of The Center for Cosmetic and Family Dentistry, Massage Envy, Planet Beach and, of course, our venue the Hilton Sandestin.

Daniel Lewis, Emcee, with McKenzie Burleigh of Emerald Coast Magazine

Lifetime Achievement Award Donna Stuart, longtime owner of LaDonna’s Salon, was honored for her numerous achievements.

Judges The Emerald Coast Top Salon was judged by Marsha Doll, Ron Faircloth, Michelle Uhlfelder, Ron Adams, Rosemary Martinek & Dr. Dennis Lichorwic

Photo Booth Fun Presented by The Center for Cosmetic and Family Dentistry, attendees were able to showcase their fun personalities in a photo booth with lots of toothy props.

Sponsors Going Above and Beyond

Thank you to all of our sponsors! They each generously went above and beyond by providing additional benefits to the participating salons and models.

Our presenting sponsor, The Center for Cosmetic and Family Dentistry provided complimentary teeth whitening to each of the 10 models.

Visit EmeraldCoastMagazine.com to see a complete recap of the event.

PHOTOS: TRISTIN KROENING , KAY PHELAN

Trey Griffith, model for Avantgarde, the winning salon

THE JUDGES Dr. Dennis Lichorwic

Marsha Doll

Ron Faircloth

Michelle Uhlfelder

Ron Adams

Rosemary Martinek

Zandra Wolfgram, Editor of Emerald Coast Magazine, with Daniel Lewis

WINNER

AVANTGARDE

Model: Trey Griffth Charity: Gulf Restoration Network

BEFORE

RUNNER UP

THE CUTTING ROOM Model: Jen Rothchild Charity: Wesley Landon

BEFORE

2ND PLACE

AS YOU LIKE IT

Model: Genny Ott Charity: Horizons of Okaloosa County

BEFORE

Donna Stuart, Lifetime Achievement Winner

AFTER

AFTER

2014

PRESENTING SPONSOR: THE CENTER FOR COSMETIC & FAMILY DENTISTRY

BEFORE

SOHO SALON

BEFORE AND AFTER PHOTOS OF MODELS

Model: Kim Cariker Charity: Emerald Coast Wildlife Rescue

BEFORE

EUPHORIA

Model: Maura Gunnip Charity: American Cancer Society

AFTER

AFTER

BEFORE

BEFORE

VIVO SPA SALON

SERENITY BY THE SEA SPA

Model: Tina Gosslin Charity: Special Olympics Florida

AFTER

Model: Jessica McVay Charity: Family Life Ministry

AFTER

AFTER

BEFORE

FUSION SPA SALON

Model: Loris Lee Charity: St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital

PRESENTING SPONSOR

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BEFORE

JUST ME SALON

Model: Jessica Austin Charity: Emerald Coast Children’s Advocacy Center

ADDITIONAL SPONSORS

BEFORE

MAGNOLIA SALON Model: Mindi Godfrey Charity: PAWS

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM June–July 2014

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BEST BEACHWEAR RETAILER & LOCALLY OWNED RETAILER

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

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the good life FOOD + TRAVEL + HEA LTH + HOME

eudaimonia*

The Garden of Eden

You can definitely slow things down and “stop to smell the roses” at this lovely estate off County Road 395 in Santa Rosa Beach. Stroll the beautiful grounds of this 163-acre park filled with moss-draped live oak trees and set your mind free from your cares and worries.

This historic site is a haven for history buffs, too. Named after a wealthy Florida timber family, Eden Gardens State Park is part of the family’s estate that was purchased and renovated in the early 1960s. Inside you’ll find one of the largest collections of Louis XVI furniture, heirlooms and antiques in all of America!

The gardens are popular for weddings and special events, but you don’t have to wait for a special occasion to enjoy them. Simply pack a picnic and make a day of it with one special someone or the entire family. — Zandra Wolfgram

Photo by Scott Holstein

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM June–July 2014

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DEAL ESTATE

in the neighborhood

GO TO EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM FOR REAL ESTATE LISTINGS

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

LOCAL The Emerald Coast closed 436 single family home sales in March 2014 — 111 of which were paid in cash. 331 were traditional sales, 83 were foreclosures and 22 were short sales.

A Beautiful Coastal Community in the Middle of It All

BY ZANDRA WOLFGRAM

A

s its name suggests, the Regatta Bay community is located in the heart of Destin, nestled along the scenic Choctawhatchee Bay and less than one-half mile from the Gulf of Mexico. This prized, closeknit community is situated on approximately 120 stunning acres filled with 28 peaceful lakes and protected, pristine woodlands and preserves filled with an abundance of wildlife. But nature isn’t all Regatta Bay offers.

Central to this resort-like gated neighborhood community is an 18-hole championship golf course that meanders through nature preserves adjacent to the Choctawhatchee Bay. The course was designed by renowned architect Robert C. Walker, a former lead designer for Arnold Palmer. A par-72 course with 6,894 yards from the back tees, Regatta Bay was named one of Golf Digest’s Top 200 Places to Play in North America. The amenities may have something to do with that. They include GPS on golf carts, chilled apples on the first and 10th tees, mangoscented towels and a full-service clubhouse that includes a golf shop.

But golf is not all Regatta Bay offers. Homeowners here have access to world-class tennis courts, a lushly landscaped community pool and a fun children’s playground.

At the heart of all social events in Regatta Bay is a beautiful 16,000-square-foot clubhouse with a full-service award-winning restaurant called Rutherford’s 465 that overlooks the immaculate golf course. The restaurant is terrific for lunch 90 June–July 2014

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and dinner and provides a convenient full-service venue for family reunions, special occasions and holiday parties.

Regatta Bay is conveniently located near a public beach access, outdoor festival stages and Destin Commons, a large lifestyle retail center that features name brand shops, restaurants, special events and a 14-screen movie theater. With so much to offer, it’s no surprise that Regatta Bay is popular with those seeking primary residences that offer the Florida coastal lifestyle. It is also a solid buy as a vacation or second home investment property.

For Lindsey Lynch, a Realtor and project manager with Legendary Inc., Regatta Bay is so compelling it even captivates the Realtors who sell it. “I would love to be in Regatta Bay one day with my family. Once you are home, you don’t have to get in your car to golf, swim, play tennis, shop, go to the beach or even catch a movie. You can take a golf cart, because it’s located right in the middle of everything,” she says.

The median sale price for townhouses and condos was $288,000 — a 28% increase since March 2013.

STATE On average, Florida’s closed single family home sales received 92.5% of their original list price.

Florida closed 9,580 townhouse and condo sales — 6,796 of which were paid in cash. 7,624 were traditional sales, 1,526 were foreclosures and 430 were short sales.

NATIONAL The national median existing-home price for all housing types was $198,500 in March, up 7.9% from March 2013.

PHOTOS BY SCOTT HOLSTEIN

Regatta Bay

There are 23 active listings (at press time) in Regatta Bay. Of those, 15 are single-family homes situated on either a lake or golf course, and six are attached golf villa units. The average sale price this past year was $757,767. Regatta Bay sales are strong with buyers paying 93 percent asking price.

If you want to build, there are eight lots. Last year, non-waterfront lots sold on average for $145,278. Bayfront lots went for $640,000. If you want to have some of the work done for you, Lynch has a unique property. A waterfront lot that comes with completed plans for 11,000 square feet (8,000 heating/cooled) listed as “build to suit.” The price is still being settled, but it will be on the market for around $4 million.

Another rare opportunity is a 2,300-square-foot duplex with a 450-square-foot guesthouse

linked by a common courtyard and listed for $584,000. “I’m excited about this home. It is a great home for ‘empty nesters,’” Lynch says. “It has two separate spaces for when the kids come back home to visit. It has all the amenities and it’s right on the golf course, but it has very low maintenance.”

These units are so popular, Lynch says the only one she could find as a “comp” sold six years ago in 2008.

Lynch says Regatta Bay is one of the most desirable communities on the coast. “It offers a gated, quiet, family-friendly lifestyle loaded with amenities — it has all of it.” 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

•

Suite 100

•

Destin, FL 32541

John.Cook@cbunited.com

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348 Miracle Strip Pkwy SW, Ste #37 Fort Walton Beach, FL 32548 )RU LQIRUPDWLRQDO SXUSRVHV RQO\ %DQN RI (QJODQG LV QRW DIÂżOLDWHG ZLWK DQ\ JRYHUQPHQW DJHQF\ 7KLV LV QRW D FRPPLWPHQW WR OHQG RU H[WHQG FUHGLW $OO ORDQV DUH VXEMHFW WR FUHGLW DSSURYDO LQFOXGLQJ FUHGLW ZRUWKLQHVV LQVXUDELOLW\ DQG DELOLW\ WR SURYLGH DFFHSWDEOH FROODWHUDO 1RW DOO ORDQV RU SURGXFWV DUH DYDLODEOH LQ DOO VWDWHV (1* /HQGLQJ LV D GLYLVLRQ RI 7KH %DQN RI (QJODQG 10/6 0HPEHU )',&

92 Juneâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;July 2014

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM

DEAL ESTATE

just sold

4525 GOLF VILLA CT., DESTIN

Downsizing Without Sacrificing Regatta Bay Three-Bedroom to the Rescue BY MIKAELA MCSHANE

PHOTO COURTESY KELLER WILLIAMS REALTY

W

hen the retired couple that purchased this property began their search, they had a somewhat convoluted wish list. Must-haves included a quiet, smaller home with enough elbowroom so as to not sacrifice personal space or comfort.

As luck would have it, their hunt concluded with the unique design of this perfect-for-them luxury townhouse situated in Destin’s desirable Regatta Bay community.

Boasting an interesting layout that allowed each person to have their own space, this property came equipped with two bedrooms, two baths and a lovely open living space with a kitchen, family room, dining room and living area.

QUICK LOOK LIST PRICE: $550,000 Another plus — separated from the ($261.15/sq. ft.) main house by a Mediterranean inSOLD FOR: $485,000 spired courtyard sits a “casita,” which ($230.29/sq. ft.) contains another bedroom, a bath and a SQUARE FEET: 2,106 separate living space that may be used BEDROOMS: 3 as an office, hobby room or even an adBATHROOMS: 3 ditional sleeping area.

“After working with this couple, we knew that there would be few properties that would meet all of their desires and none as perfectly as the Regatta Bay Golf Villas,” said Nancy Brooke of The Brooke Team at Keller Williams Realty, Emerald Coast. “It was a pleasure being able to help them find their little corner of paradise.”

As if the property’s design wasn’t alluring enough, the listing’s location made this home ideal for entertaining guests and enjoying the serenity of outdoor living. Being situated in the country club community of Regatta Bay also meant that as new home owners, the couple would be just moments away from a wide array of dining, shopping and entertainment options.

“The gentleman is a golfer, and being able to have his own golf cart to play his home course was not a necessity,” admitted Brooke.

“But (it) certainly was a great bonus.” ec

We have all of your real estate needs covered: Real Estate Sales and Consulting Trusted Resource Innovative Marketing Strategies Strong Negotiation Skills Support Through Closing and Beyond

Jodi Ketchersid, J.D., Realtor/Owner 4014 Commons Drive, Suite 100, Destin, FL 32541 850.424.3094 · RealJoyProperties.com William L. Ketchersid, Esq., LL.M., Tax 1241 Airport Road, Suite H, Destin, FL 32541 850.837.5507 · flaattorney.com 2013

WARD & KETCHERSID P.A. W

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM June–July 2014

93

Award-Winning Interior Design Firm & Art Gallery

Fine Furnishings & Accessories Showroom Full Service · New Construction Remodeling

850.837.5157 · SugarBeachInteriors.com 11974 US Hwy 98 W, Miramar Beach, FL 32550 #2600633

With 17 years of experience on the Emerald Coast, New Leaf Landscape has Your Solution!

Landscape Maintenance · Weed & Insect Control Installations & Renovations · Irrigation Services Clean-Up Services · Landscape Consultation New ew Le Leaf aff LLandscape ands dscapee Solutions, Solutio tions, LLC LL 850-225-6584 — Call for Results newleafnwf.com | info@newleafnwf.com 603 Pinecone Cove, Niceville, FL 32578

94 June–July 2014

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DEAL ESTATE

just listed

376 RUE CARIBE, DESTIN

More Than Just Another Beach House

376 Rue Caribe is a Dream Come True

BY MIKAELA MCSHANE

PHOTO COURTESY CINDY COLE FINE HOMES

F

rom design to location, the listing at 376 Rue Caribe truly has it all.

Caribe, situated just west of the Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort, is a private, secure, gated community of about 120 home sites. Here, homeowners enjoy exclusive access to Caribe’s private beach, community pools, tennis courts and an address in one of the most prestigious communities bordering the Gulf of Mexico.

In other words, life is good. And this particular listing, is a dream come true.

Through the French doors of the secQUICK LOOK ond floor entrance, visitors can catch a LIST PRICE: $4,999,995 glimpse of the emerald water that lies ($996.80/sq. ft.) just beyond the infinity pool and white SQUARE FEET: 5,016 sand dunes. Potential buyers can enjoy BEDROOMS: 5 direct beach access and draw from this BATHROOMS: 5.5 breezy property’s cool open style and CONTACT: Cindy Cole, Caribbean vibe.

Fine Homes of Destin, A testament to the longevity of mod(850) 502-6344, ern coastal living, last year, this 1994 cindy@ccfinehomes.com home underwent a total renovation by the original architect, Tom Christ, nearly 20 years after its conception. Christ designed the property to be a perfect union between classic coastal and modern elegance.

The dark wood accents of the doors contrast nicely with the cool blue shutters and white frame. Attention to detail was the key in the building and remodeling of this prize; no luxury was spared in the design and no functionality was compromised.

Despite its modern finishes, this newly improved home retains its classic old-Florida charms. Situated in a quiet beachfront cul-de-sac among other vibrant homes, the functional hallmark of this five bedroom, five-and-a-half bath home is the separate downstairs bedroom which allows for a private guest quarters.

“This house has every major component a Gulf-front buyer is looking for — view, Gulf access and architectural significance. The addition of the pool was just an added bonus,” beamed listing agent Cindy Cole of Fine Homes of Destin.

This sprawling house could comfortably accommodate a large family or even be used as a multi-family vacation home. ec EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM June–July 2014

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on s u d n i f o t n a Sc Facebook

CUSTOMERS.

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Brian Rowland, President, Rowland Publishing

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phone 850.424.5155

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EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM

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ms. grow-it-all

ROSE KNOW-HOW WITH PREPARATION AND CARE, BLOOMS WILL BEAUTIFY YOUR GARDEN FOR MONTHS BY AUDREY POST I want to grow roses but I worry about mildew because of our high humidity. What do you suggest?

A: Roses are a great choice for home gardeners here in North Florida, because they bloom nine or 10 months of the year, depending on how chilly a winter we have. Our humidity can cause lots of problems for roses, including the mildew you mentioned, but some roses can handle our climate and are easier to grow than others. All roses can be categorized as either high-maintenance or low-maintenance, so decide how much time you want to spend on them.

High-maintenance roses include hybrid tea roses, which is what florists use. These require frequent spraying with fungicides in order to look their best. They also need frequent grooming and fertilizing, as well as watering. For many rosarians, it’s a labor of love to care for hybrid teas. For others, it’s a pain in the neck.

Low-maintenance roses include the old garden roses, also called heirloom roses, and the newer shrub roses, such as the Knock-out® collection. The flowers on OGRs and Knock-outs® are more open and less formal, but still beautiful. Some of the more popular heirloom roses in our area are Mrs. B.R. Cant, which produces a pink flower; Louis Philippe, which has a deep pinkish red bloom; and Lady Banks, a climbing rose that blooms either yellow or white in spring.

Some roses are great landscape plants; others don’t do much for the yard but make great cut flowers. Some have fragrance and others don’t. Think about why you want roses, and make your selection accordingly. Many OGRs are grown on their own rootstock, but roses grafted onto Fortuniana rootstock tend to be stronger and more disease-resistant, grow larger and produce more flowers.

Once you’ve decided on what kind of roses you want, decide where you want to plant them. Roses need at least six hours of direct sunlight a day. If your preferred location gets partial shade, make sure it’s in the afternoon, for a couple of reasons: First, morning sun will dry the dew faster, reducing the chances of fungus developing; and second, our afternoon sun can be brutal in summer. Don’t plant them too close to trees or other shrubs, because their root systems need room. Although roses are not salt-tolerant, they can be grown near the coast if protected from salt spray.

Got a site picked out? Good, now have the soil tested. Don’t skip this step — you could do it before you pick out your rose bush

— because a plant in the wrong environment will fail to thrive, and you’ll end up tossing it, usually after spending lots of money and energy trying to salvage it. Soil test kits are available at your county extension office and include complete instructions on how to take the sample and mail it off for testing. As long as you’re going to the trouble of getting it tested, pay the extra $4 for a complete soil analysis, instead of just the pH test of acidity and alkalinity. Roses like a well-drained loam that is slightly to moderately acidic soil — pH of 5.5 to 6.5.

You’ll probably need to add compost or composted manure to improve the soil structure, but stay away from mushroom compost, which is very alkaline. Be sure to amend the entire planting bed, not just the planting hole. Plant your rose at about the same depth it was in the pot, maybe a little shallower, and build a 2– to 3–inch high berm around it, about a foot out from the plant. This will allow water to seep into the root zone, where it’s needed, instead of running off.

Water frequently the first couple of months.

Many roses take a couple of years to establish their root systems, while the top growth remains slow. Be sure to install a trellis or other support for climbers or bushes that will grow large; installing it at planting time will avoid potential root damage later.

Hybrid teas and other so-called “modern” roses will require weekly spraying, dead-heading of spent blossoms and general grooming.

OGRs and Knock-outs® require minimal care. In our area, February is the right time to prune roses, to control their size and form as well as to increase air circulation. Remove any dead and diseased canes, and shorten the main canes as well as their branches. Don’t cut back the healthy canes by more than half. Slight pruning and shaping can be done throughout the growing season, through August.

The best way to learn about growing roses is join a local rose society.

There are two affiliates of the American Rose Society in the Florida Panhandle and Big Bend region, the Tallahassee Area Rose Society (tallahasseearearosesociety.org) and the Pensacola Rose Society (pensacolarosesociety.org). There’s a wealth of knowledge in both. © 2014 Postscript Publishing, all rights reserved. Audrey Post is a certified Advanced Master Gardener volunteer with the University of Florida IFAS Extension in Leon County. Email her at Questions@MsGrowItAll.com or visit her website at msgrowitall.com. Ms. Grow-It-All® is a registered trademark of Postscript Publishing. ec EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM June–July 2014

97

BEST of the

Emerald Coast CAST YOUR VOTE!

Locals will tell you the quality of life here is unlike any other because of the people who give this little patch of Florida personality plus. They are our earnest, hardworking friends, family and neighbors who pour their heart and souls into all they do — including the delicious restaurants and service-centric shops they own and operate, and the exceptional professional services they dutifully provide to each of us on a daily basis.

With so many well-respected service providers and memorable places to dine, shop and play all along the Emerald Coast, choosing just one “BEST” OF THE EMERALD COAST business for each category is indeed a challenge.

So, why not call in the experts?

For the past 13 years our EC gurus have not steered us wrong, so once again, we are happy to present the Best of the Emerald Coast Ballot to you, our loyal EC Magazine readers. It’s time for you to be the judge and cast your vote.

An independent firm will tally the votes, and the winners will be featured in the October/November 2014 issue of EC Magazine. You will have a chance to toast the winners and support the Junior League of the Emerald Coast at the annual Best of the Emerald Coast celebration at Grand Boulevard on SATURDAY, OCT. 25 FROM 6–9 P.M.

98 June–July 2014

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2014 OFFICIAL BEST OF THE EMERALD COAST BALLOT BROUGHT TO YOU BY:

THE RULES OK, get your pens ready. But first, please take note of our rules, which are designed to make the contest as fair as possible: • Only ballots printed on original magazine pages will be accepted — no copies (color or black-and-white) or facsimiles of the ballot.

• Ballots must have votes in at least 20 categories.

• All votes must be for Emerald Coast-area businesses.

• No incentives, prizes, goods or services may be offered in exchange for votes.

• Only one ballot per envelope is permitted.

•B usinesses may not require ballots to be turned in to a central location; ballots must be filled out independently and mailed to address listed below.

• All ballots must be mailed directly to the post office box address below: “Best of the Emerald Coast” PO Box 531 Fort Walton Beach, FL 32549 • Ballots must be postmarked by June 30, 2014.

• Obvious attempts at ballot stuffing will be disqualified.

•A ny winning business must be in good standing with Rowland Publishing Inc. in order to be promoted as a “Best of Winner.”

Once ballots are counted, all tabulations are final.

FOOD & BEVERAGE

Margarita:

Appetizer:

Martini:

Bagel Shop:

Mediterranean:

Bakery:

Mexican/Latin American Restaurant:

BBQ:

Onsite Catering:

Beer Selection:

Outdoor Bar:

Bloody Mary:

Outdoor Dining:

Breakfast:

Oysters:

Brunch:

Pizza:

Buffalo Wings:

Restaurant in Okaloosa County:

Cajun/Creole:

Restaurant in Walton County:

Chef:

Romantic/Special Occasion Restaurant:

Chinese:

Sandwich Shop:

Coffee:

Seafood Market:

Dessert:

Seafood Restaurant:

Fine Dining:

Service-Food & Beverage:

French:

Sports Bar:

Gourmet/Food Shop/Speciality Food Store:

Steakhouse:

Grouper Sandwich:

Sushi:

Gumbo:

Thai:

Hamburger:

SERVICE PROVIDERS

Happy Hour:

Accounting Firm:

Hibachi:

Acupuncture Clinic:

✁

Best Frozen Treat (Ice Cream, Yogurt, Gelato, Snow Cones):

Aesthetician:

Airport:

Italian:

Architect:

Locally Owned Restaurant:

ATV/Golf/Electric Cart Dealership:

HOWARD GROUP | SIMON

®

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM June–July 2014

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Audio/Visual Provider:

Property Management Group:

Automobile Dealership:

Real Estate Group:

Boat Sales and Service:

Security/Alarm System:

Builder/Contractor:

Spa Services:

Auto Repair:

Specialty Fitness (Pilates, yoga, etc.):

Car/Limo/Shuttle Service:

Surgical Practice:

Charity/Non-profit:

Title Company:

Charter Boat/Watersports:

Vacation Rental Company/Service:

Chiropractic Practice:

Veterinarian:

Wedding Planner Company: Computer Repair Services/Tech Support: Cosmetic/Plastic Surgery Practice:

Wedding/Reception Venue:

Customer Service:

Weight Loss Facility:

Dance/Ballet/Gymnastics Class:

SHOPPING

Dental Practice: Dental Specialty (Orthos) Practice: Dermatology Practice: Dry Cleaner: Event Planning Company: Eye Doctor Practice: Financial Institution: Flooring:

Antiques Shop: Beachwear Retailer: Children’s Clothing Retailer: Consignment/Resale Shop: Eyewear Store: Furniture Retailer: Gift Shop: Jewelry Store:

Florist: Gym/Health Club/Fitness Center: Hair Salon: Heating and Air Service: Insurance Agency: Interior Design Firm: Landscaping/Lawn Service: Law Firm:

Locally Owned Retailer: Men’s Apparel: Outdoor Furniture Retailer: Sporting Goods Retailer: Wedding Shop: Women’s Accessories: Women’s Apparel:

Locksmith:

ENTERTAINMENT

Martial Arts/Karate:

Art Gallery:

Massage Therapist:

Best Place for Kids Birthday Party:

Media Provider (Cable, Internet, Phone):

DJ:

Medical Center/Hospital:

Golf Course:

Medical Practice:

Local Artist:

Mortgage Lender:

Local Attraction:

Nail Salon:

Local Event:

Personal Trainer:

Musician/Vocalist/Band:

Pet Care/Shop:

Place To Be Seen:

Photo Booth Company:

Place To Go Dancing:

Photographer:

Place To Take the Kids:

Physical Therapy Practice:

Place To Watch a Sunset:

Plumbing Fixtures/Service:

Radio Personality:

Pool Building/Service Company:

Resort:

Printing Services:

Tennis Facility:

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✁

Women’s Shoes:

Lighting Store:

2013

ANOTHER BROKEN EGG CAFE BE ST BR EA KFAST | M U L T I -Y E A R W I N N E R Inspiring eggs to excellence, Another Broken Egg Café has won best breakfast for a dozen years! The café offers more than 100 delicious, innovative breakfast, brunch and lunch choices in a warm and inviting atmosphere.

D E S T I N | T H E V I L L A G E O F B AY T O W N E W H A R F CO M I N G S O O N TO G RA N D B O U L E VA R D

BISTRO BIJOUX BE ST F R ENCH | M U L T I -Y E A R W I N N E R A romantic restaurant featuring perfectly seasoned coastal cuisine with New Orleans flair. We offer catering for private events and weddings through RSVP events of at Bistro Bijoux. Our intimate lounge offers specialty martinis and award-winning wine list.

850.622 .0760 | BISTROBIJOUXDESTIN.COM

DON’T FORGET TO CHECK OUT THE BALLOT STARTING ON PAGE 98 TO VOTE FOR THIS YEAR’S CATEGORIES.

AVA’S ATTIC & CONSIGNMENT BOUTIQUE B E ST CO N S I GN M E N T/R E SA L E S H O P M U L T I -Y E A R W I N N E R Browse 10,000 square feet of shopping with furniture, clothing, shoes, purses and a new line of repurposed custom-built and painted furniture at Ava’s Attic. From one-of-a-kind treasures to upscale women’s apparel and accessories, there is something for everyone.

1 2 8 8 9 E M E R A L D C O A S T PA R K W AY, D E S T I N 850. 424.6767 F A C E B O O K . C O M /A V A S . AT T I C B O U T I Q U E

BEAUTIFUL LIGHTS BE ST L I GH T I N G STO R E M U L T I -Y E A R W I N N E R

Beautiful Lights

Lighting ... Or Art? You decide.

Beautiful Lights fits every need and budget, providing impeccable service and always striving for unique, beautiful and innovative lighting options along with design consultations for residential and commercial clients.

SHOPS OF DESTINY 3 6 2 3 6 E M E R A L D C O A S T P K W Y, S U I T E C 2 DESTIN | 850.650.9417

CENTER FOR FAMILY AND COSMETIC DENTISTRY BEST DENTAL PRACTICE | MULTI-YEAR WINNER

CLEMENZA’S BE ST I TA L I A N & O K A LO O SA COUNTY R E STAU R A N T | M U L T I - Y E A R W I N N E R

At the award-winning cosmetic and family dentistry practice, Dr. Dennis Lichorwic, Dr. Julia Sprang and Dr. Stephanie Strauss provide the highest standards of dentistry in an efficient, professional manner. Our team addresses individual needs, as your healthy smile is our priority.

With Italian roots and a desire to delight its patrons, Clemenza’s encompasses all that is Italian cuisine. From wood-fired pizzas and traditional red sauces to pasta and clams, paired with one of our premier wines, Clemenza’s offers a classic taste of Italy.

DESTIN | 850.654.8665 PA N A M A C I T Y B E A C H | 8 5 0 . 2 3 5 . 2 2 9 9 D E ST I N D E N T I ST.CO M

U P T O W N S TAT I O N , 7 5 E G L I N PA R K W AY FO RT WA LTO N B E AC H 8 5 0 . 2 4 3 . 0 7 0 7 | C L E M E N Z A S AT U P T O W N . C O M

COASTAL ACCOUNTING BEST ACCOUNTING FIRM | 2 0 1 2 , 2 0 1 3 Coastal Accounting is locally owned and operated with a personal connection with each client. We are a full service firm offering audit, tax, bookkeeping, payroll, estate/retirement planning and more.

D E S T I N 8 5 0 . 6 5 4 . 9 2 3 5 | N I C E V I L L E 8 5 0 . 7 2 9 . 1 1 2 9 | C O A S TA L A C C O U N T I N G . N E T

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM June–July 2014

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2013

COASTAL SKIN SURGERY & DERMATOLOGY BEST DERMATOLOGY PRACTICE | 2 0 1 2 , 2 0 1 3 Specializing in medical, surgical and cosmetic dermatology, our providers provide comprehensive dermatological care to patients of all ages, focusing on each patient’s individual concerns and needs. Offering: Same Day Appointments, Fellowship-Trained Mohs Surgery and Skin Rejuvenation Treatments.

DON’T FORGET TO CHECK OUT THE BALLOT STARTING ON PAGE 98 TO VOTE FOR THIS YEAR’S CATEGORIES.

DESIGN AVENUE B E ST I NTE R I O R DE S I GN F I R M M U L T I -Y E A R W I N N E R

JOHN WEHNER’S VILLAGE DOOR BE ST P L AC E TO GO DA N C I N G M U L T I -Y E A R W I N N E R

A full-service interior design center and boutique gift shop with a unique fusion of design elements and a destination for specialty gifts. Ashley Harkins, owner and experienced Licensed Interior Designer, makes new construction specifications to remodeling endeavors a relaxing experience.

Owner John Wehner created this hot spot to offer the same eclectic and electric style as his original nightspot, the Famous Door on New Orleans’ Bourbon Street. The Village Door is Destin’s hottest live music dance club.

MIRAMAR BEACH | 850.654. 3376 C O A S TA L S K I N S U R G E R Y. C O M

3 4 9 4 0 E M E R A L D C O A S T P K W Y, S T E 1 1 4 , D E S T I N 8 5 0 . 424 . 51 55 | D E S I G N -AV E N U E .CO M

DESTIN VACATION BOAT RENTALS B E ST C H A RTER BOAT/ WAT E R S PORTS | 2 0 1 1 – 2 0 1 3

DEWEY DESTIN SEAFOOD B E ST S E A FO O D | 2 0 1 3

Fish, ski, cruise or sail with Destin Vacation Boat Rentals.

This full-service boat rental and charter company offers fishing boats, pontoons, powerboats, sailboats and jet skis for rent as well as fishing and sailing charters, watersports equipment rentals and a ship’s store on site.

Owned by the Destin Family, Dewey is a direct descendent of the town’s founder.

The two restaurants serve up charm and award-winning seafood. One in a quaint house overlooking the Destin Harbor, and the original around the corner on the Bay.

850.650.2628 D E S T I N V A C AT I O N B O AT R E N TA L S . C O M

202 HARBOR BLVD., DESTIN 8 5 0 . 8 3 7. 7 5 7 5 | D E S T I N S E A F O O D . C O M

L O C AT E D I N T H E V I L L A G E O F B AY T O W N E W H A R F AT S A N D E S T I N G O L F A N D B E A C H R E S O R T 850.502 . 4590 | THEVILLAGEDOOR.COM

FAT CLEMENZA’S BRICK OVEN PIZZERIA BE ST I TA L I A N R E STAU R A N T M U L T I -Y E A R W I N N E R If you have not had the opportunity to dine at Fat Clemenza’s you are missing out on a multiple award winner for best chef, Italian food and wood-fired pizza. Our staff will make you feel like “part of the family.”

12273 US HWY 98, MIRAMAR BEACH 8 5 0 . 6 5 0 . 5 9 8 0 | F AT C L E M E N Z A S . C O M

FRENCH LAUNDRY BEST DRY CLEANER | M U L T I -Y E A R W I N N E R The French Laundry is a 100% environmentally green, high-quality dry cleaner owned and operated in South Walton since 2001. We take pride in protecting our customer’s wardrobes and household items to keep them looking great longer, while delivering the best combination of service and quality for the lowest possible cost.

M I R A M A R B E A C H | 8 5 0 . 2 6 9 . 0 0 0 6 | S A N TA R O S A B E A C H | 8 5 0 . 6 2 2 . 0 4 3 2 | F R E N C H L A U N D R Y C L E A N E R S . C O M

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DON’T FORGET TO CHECK OUT THE BALLOT STARTING ON PAGE 98 TO VOTE FOR THIS YEAR’S CATEGORIES.

LEGENDARY MARINE BE ST BOAT SA LES A ND S E RV I CE M U L T I -Y E A R W I N N E R

TOPS’L - MANAGED BY WYNDHAM VACATION RENTALS B E ST TE N N I S FAC I L I T Y | 2 0 1 3

Legendary Marine, with locations in Destin, Fort Walton Beach, Panama City and Gulf Shores, Ala., offers new boat and premium pre-owned sales, the largest factory-authorized service departments on the Gulf Coast, full marina services and dry storage.

Vote for the multi-award winning TOPS’L Beach and Racquet Resort®!

Featuring over 12 clay courts, USPTA-certified tennis professionals and complete tennis packages for both singles and groups, TOPS’L is the number one choice when it comes to perfecting the game of tennis.

F O U R L O C AT I O N S LEGENDARYMARINE.COM

8 55 . 7 7 3 .1 75 0 | B E ST T E N N I S R E SO RT.CO M

OSAKA JAPANESE STEAKHOUSE AND SUSHI BAR BE ST H IBACH I | M U L T I -Y E A R W I N N E R BE ST S US H I | 2 0 0 8

RESOLUTE MARTIAL ARTS BEST MARTIAL ARTS/KARATE | 2 0 1 2 , 2 0 1 3

A memorable and entertaining dining experience where the freshest available ingredients are assembled into artfully prepared sushi dishes. Or, enjoy an amazing show as your meal is prepared right in front of you at one of our hibachi tables.

Resolute Martial Arts develops mental and physical strength, allowing students to overcome challenges and reach goals. Our school provides a safe, positive, fun and supportive journey to Black Belt fitness and beyond. We strive to provide professional, friendly service to our students, their families and our community.

3 4 74 5 E M E RA L D COA ST PA R KWAY, D E ST I N 8 5 0 . 6 5 0 . 4 6 8 8 O R 8 5 0 . 6 5 0 . 4 6 8 9 | O S A KA D E ST I N . CO M

4014 COMMONS DRIVE W., #120, DESTIN 8 5 0 . 7 9 7. 4 4 3 4 | R E S O L U T E M A R T I A L A R T S . C O M

MAMA CLEMENZA’S EUROPEAN BREAKFAST BE ST BRU N C H | M U L T I -Y E A R W I N N E R Culinary perfection, diverse menu and authentic old world family recipes, simply the best! A customer quoted: “At 82 I can count the memorable meals on one hand and this is one of them.” Locally owned — vote Mama Clemenza’s!

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SPORTY LADY OF DESTIN BE ST BE AC H WE A R R E TA ILER AND BE ST LO CA L LY OWN E D R ETAILER M U LT I -Y E A R W I N N E R Sporty Lady offers expert sizing advice, as well as the perfect suit for all sizes and shapes among its 10,000 swimsuits from over 50 of the most famous brands. Come to Sporty Lady for the fit, and return for the service.

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TODAY’S BOUTIQUE B E ST WO M E N ’S A P PA R E L | M U L T I -Y E A R W I N N E R Celebrating over 30 years in business, owners Jim and Kim Dettle and their staff offer exceptional service and a large selection of the latest fashion trends to their clientele.

Visit Today’s Boutique for exclusive lines, fashion and fun.

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2013

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Our professional mobile staff is full service and available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Also, please visit our 2,200-squarefoot Destin Locksmithing Showroom.

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habitat

Get Wired i

LOCAL EXPERTS LEVERAGE CUTTING-EDGE TECHNOLOGY, EXPERIENCE TO CREATE ‘SMART’ HOMES

PHOTO BY HOWARD ROBINSON

n the digital age, homes are becoming increasingly tech-heavy — and “smart.” For most of us, setting up flat-screen televisions, surround sound systems and full automation systems is an esoteric, overwhelming process. But for a seasoned professional, these products and their installation are second nature. Professional consultation and installation can give you all of the techy upgrades and — depending on the professional — ongoing support long after the project is completed.

AN INDUSTRY OVERVIEW In the world of wiring and technology, stresses Stanley Zawisza, president of Audio Video by Stan in Destin, it’s important to find someone who knows what they’re doing — and can back it up with plenty of experience.

“The amount of technical knowledge it takes to sell and install these systems properly is very, very important. This is not just an industry that you’re going to pick up and read a book and learn how to do it for This custom home audio system designed a living,” he says. by homeNETservice Zawisza works on wirin Pensacola features ing homes being newly the Denon AVR-X2000, which is the “heart constructed and also a lot and brain” of this of renovations and remodhome audio system els. With the economy on and CareHomes, an intuitive product the upswing, the remodel which conveniently side of business has been streamlines a home’s operation, security and growing. He explained entertainment systems that his work spans a huge to be accessible with range of size, intensity just the click of a button on a handheld device. of labor and cost — it all simply depends on what a client wants. “I custom build a system with their wants and needs, for whatever type of budget they’ve laid out,” he adds. Jobs range from a surround sound system with flat panel television and speakers in half a dozen rooms, to a recent full automation job, with multiple televisions and speakers, control systems for those units, and climate and lighting control.

“I would say the surround sound system with speakers around the house is the most popular thing he do,” he said.

Bruce Lindsay, partner at homeNETservice in Pensacola, says that in addition to home automation sound systems comprise the majority of his business.

The company works throughout Escambia and Santa Rosa counties, providing a broad range of audio, video and wiring services, including wall-mounted television

BY LAURA BRADLEY

installations, wireless network installation and setup, sound systems, home automation and, for commercial enterprises, telecommunications. Jobs can range from Wi-Fi or universal remote setup to installation of a surround sound system or a home automation system.

For homeNETservice, business is about evenly divided between new construction and retrofitting equipment to already-built homes. Existing structures require more work, Lindsay explains, so installations like home automation cost more.

“We typically go to the customer and find out what it is they want, and what they already have,” Lindsay says. This allows for an appropriately designed system and an accurate estimate.

When getting your home wired, the consultation and installation process is relatively simple. First, there is usually an on-site visit where the consultant meets the clients and gets acquainted with the project site. Then, an estimate and design can be drawn up at a later date and presented to the client. Then all that’s left is the installation process, which can vary in duration depending on the job.

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The biggest part of the consultation process is going over the budget, according to Mark Baker, owner of Freedom Audio Video Services in Gulf Breeze. “Part of the consultation is finding out what a person’s budget is, because often you can get it all done over time,” he explains. A budget, coupled with a project timeline, can enable homeowners to plan a project over the course of a few steps, giving them one upgrade at a time and ultimately giving them all of the techie equipment they want — while staying within their budget.

Stuart Houston hired Audio Video

by Stan to design a theater system for his Destin home; Stanley Zawisza (opposite), president of Audio Video by Stan, in front of a $300,000 automated “smart” home system designed for a Destin client.

A GROWING TREND With expanding technology, homeowners are getting more control over their homes from simpler devices, and full automation systems are a growing trend. “Smart” homes allow owners to use a simple app to control various household operations like heating and air conditioning, lighting, security systems and irrigation systems — not to mention all of the house’s electronic gadgets.

In August 2012, Reuters reported in “Analysis: U.S. industrials, telecoms to face off in home automation” that, “Only about 3 percent of U.S. homes have home automation systems today, but analysts estimate that will increase by double-digit rates over the coming years.” At that time, the U.S. energy and home automation industry had reached about $1.5 billion. The trend is continuing to grow, and in “Statistics to Make You Think,” Electrical Contractor magazine reported, “The market is forecast to exceed $5.5 billion in 2016, the result of a compound annual growth rate of 10.5 percent between 2011 and 2016.”

To Zawisza, the growth is not surprising.

“It seems the automation industry — controlling things with your phone — has become very popular for a number of different reasons,” he explains. “You always have your phone in your pocket, and everybody’s used to having apps and controlling them. Now I can give you an app on your phone to control your entire home, so it’s very popular.”

Lindsay adds that besides the added home value and convenience of home automation, the homeowners can also get added security; features like checking on home security

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systems remotely on a smartphone can reassure travelling homeowners. “It’s an improvement on their house and it makes it more valuable,” he says. “We like gadgets, and they make our lives easier.”

Zawisza also says automation can vastly improve a home’s energy efficiency, making it more environmentally friendly and lowering utility bills. For instance, an automation system can set lights in a home to 80 percent brightness, rather than 100 percent — a difference that your eye will probably not perceive, until it looks at your electric bill.

The air conditioner can also be set to run only at certain times and temperatures, ensuring less wasted energy in unnecessarily heating and cooling a home.

If possible, it is better to get these systems installed during a home’s construction, advises Lindsay. It’s significantly more affordable, as the wiring can be done as the house is being built.

But Baker warns there are some security concerns to be aware of when outfitting your It seems the home with these high tech automation devices. “There is not a lot of industry — security built into these AV controlling things devices,” he says. “Security is with your phone the biggest aspect I’m trying — has become to educate my customers on.”

Those with remote control very popular for a of their home automation sysnumber of different tems from mobile devices like reasons. You always tablets and smartphones often have your phone expose themselves to security in your pocket, and risks by having Wi-Fi enabled, everybody’s used Baker explains. Wi-Fi could to having apps allow someone to hack into the device and gain access and controlling to a home’s security codes; them. Now I can all photos taken on a mobile give you an app device are tagged by location, on your phone to and thus could reveal a home’s control your entire address. This has led to cases home, so it’s very of robbery while people are popular.” out or on vacation.

Users who deactivate their — Stanley Zawisza, devices’ access to Wi-Fi president of Audio Video when they leave the house are

by Stan in Destin much safer. As for the devices themselves, while the trend is going to computer networking and getting more devices online, Baker advises homeowners to consider keeping them on a separate network from the house’s computers.

While computers usually have security software, he cautions that many AV devices such as smart TVs lack the protection computers have, and could thus expose other devices on the same network (such as a computer) to security threats. With a router capable of running multiple virtual networks, such as a Cisco business class router, computers can be kept secure on a network separate from the home’s other audio/video equipment. ec

PHOTOS BY SCOTT HOLSTEIN

‘‘

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Great Pretenders e

THE INTERNET PROVIDES A BOUNTY OF RECIPES TO RECREATE RESTAURANT FAVORITES

BY ROSANNE DUNKELBERGER

108 June–July 2014

very so often, a restaurant will offer a particular thing on the menu that’s tasty, memorable and seems to have almost universal appeal. I’m thinking the Tiramisù at Carrabba’s Italian Grill and the pretzel-dip-and-beer cheese dip at TGIFriday’s.

It becomes your go-to menu item and the thing that can get you out of your jammies on a Friday night when a craving hits and draw you to Olive Garden (Zuppa Toscana!) or Bonefish Grill (Bang Bang Shrimp!).

And then there’s the worst-case scenario: when you can’t even cave in and order the P.F. Chang’s Chicken Lettuce Wraps or Tony Roma’s Baby Back Ribs that you love, because the food you’re craving is from an out-of-town restaurant. My daughter’s friend would pay her a bounty to bring packages of Zax Sauce back to their college

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM

campus in Sarasota, because there were no Zaxby’s restaurants nearby.

Lucky for us, there are kitchen wizards with time on their hands, desire in their souls and a generous nature who are willing to share the fruits of their “hacking” on recipe sites (food. com, allrecipes.com, copycat.com, foodnetwork.com) and Pinterest (so you get the howto plus luscious photos for inspiration).

The recipes listed here were found on the food.com website. But never fear, if one of these isn’t your favorite restaurant fare, you’ll probably find it in one of the more than 3,500 other copycats listed on the site at restaurant. food.com. If you’re looking for a recipe, it’s always useful to scroll through the comments.

You’ll often find commentary from restaurant employees past and present who let you know just how close the “hacker” has come to recreating the original recipe.

Zax Sauce

Zaxby’s fans swoon over this sauce.

It’s meant for chicken dipping, but many a French fry has taken a dunk in it, too. Commenters on the recipe recommend swapping in tomato paste for the ketchup.

There’s no cooking involved, but you should let it sit for at least two hours after mixing so the flavors can mingle.

Yield: ½ cup sauce

Carrabba’s Signature Dessert Trio: Tiramisú, Dessert Rosa and Sogno di Cioccolata

INGREDIENTS ½ cup mayonnaise ¼ cup tomato ketchup ½ teaspoon garlic powder ¼ teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

Tiramisù

Carrabba’s contends that with so many Tiramisù recipes to choose from, they can make the decision of choosing easier for us, because their redention is “simply perfect.” Try this sweet ending, and taste what you think for yourself.

INGREDIENTS 2 large eggs ⅓ cup plus 1 tablespoon sugar 1 tablespoon dark rum, such as Myer’s ½ teaspoon vanilla extract 1 container (16 to 17 ounces) mascarpone

PHOTO COURTESY OF CARRABBA’S ITALIAN GRILL ® (TIRAMISÚ)

2 cups brewed Italian roast coffee, cooled 2 tablespoons hazelnut liqueur, such as Frangelico 2 tablespoons coffee liqueur, such as Tia Maria 32 dry ladyfingers (savoiardi), about 9 ounces 1 bar (3½ ounces) semisweet or bittersweet chocolate, grated on the large holes of a box grater DIRECTIONS Whisk the eggs, sugar and rum together in the insert part of a double boiler. Heat over simmering water, being sure that the bottom of the insert does not touch the water, using a rubber spatula to stir constantly and scrape down splashes on the inside of the

insert, until the mixture is hot, thickened, and opaque and reaches 160°F on an instantread thermometer. Turn off the heat and stir for 1 minute longer.

Remove the insert from the pot. Add the vanilla. Beat with an electric mixer set on high speed until the mixture is cooled and tripled in volume, about 3 minutes. (The mixture should form peaks when you remove the mixer.) A few tablespoons at a time, beat in the mascarpone. Do not overbeat.

½-1 teaspoon black pepper DIRECTIONS Mix together the mayo, ketchup and garlic powder, blending well.

Add Worcestershire sauce and blend well. Cover the surface of sauce with lots of black pepper until just coated. Blend well.

Repeat process, covering surface with black pepper. Stir until blended well and refrigerate.

Have 9-inch-square baking dish ready to hold the Tiramisù. Mix the coffee and liqueurs together in a wide, shallow bowl. One at a time, quickly dip 16 ladyfingers in the coffee mixture (do not soak them), and place sideby-side to line the bottom of the baking dish.

Spread with half of the mascarpone mixture, then sprinkle with half of the chocolate.

Repeat with the remaining ladyfingers (discard the remaining coffee mixture), mascarpone, and top with chocolate. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate until chilled, at least 4 hours or overnight. Spoon into bowls and serve chilled.

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Cheddar Bay Biscuits

There are no less than 29 iterations of this Red Lobster favorite on food.com and many more on other recipe sites.

This particular recipe has garnered many five-star reviews since it was posted in 2007. The poster swears the secret is to use really cold butter.

Yield: 9 biscuits

INGREDIENTS 2 ½ cups Bisquick baking mix 4 tablespoons cold butter 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, grated ¾ cup cold whole milk ¼ teaspoon garlic powder TOPPING 2 tablespoons butter, melted ½ teaspoon garlic powder ¼ teaspoon dried parsley flakes 1 pinch salt

DIRECTIONS Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Combine Bisquick and cold butter, but don’t mix too thoroughly.

There should be small chunks of butter about the size of peas. Add cheddar, milk and garlic powder. Mix by hand until combined, but don’t over mix. Drop nine equal portions onto a greased cookie sheet. Bake for 15-17 minutes or until tops are light brown. For the topping, stir garlic powder and parsley flakes into the melted butter. Use a pastry brush to spread garlic butter over the tops of the biscuits.

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PHOTOS COURTESY OF BONEFISH GRILL® (BANG BANG SHRIMP) AND RED LOBSTER (CHEDDAR BAY BISCUITS)

Bang Bang Shrimp

These spicy, sauced-up fried shrimp have earned the local Bonefish Grill a “Best Appetizer” win in the Best of the Emerald Coast contest for years. There are a lot of permutations of this recipe on the Web with many different “secret” ingredients. Some complain the sauce in this recipe is too “mayonnaise-y,” so you might want to start with a lesser amount.

A commenter who claims to know the exact recipe says Bonefish uses Mae Ploy brand sweet Thai chili sauce and Hong Foy garlic chili sauce.

Yield: 4–6 servings

INGREDIENTS 1 pound shrimp, shelled and deveined; smaller shrimp work best ½ cup mayonnaise ¼ cup Thai sweet chili sauce 3–5 drops hot chili sauce, just a few drops ½–¾ cup cornstarch, for coating shrimp

DIRECTIONS Mix mayo and sauces for coating. Bread shrimp in cornstarch. Deep fat fry the shrimp until lightly brown. Drain on paper towel, put shrimp in a bowl and coat with the sauce. Serve in a lettuce lined bowl and top with chopped scallions. ec

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dining Alys Beach

GEORGE’S AT ALYS BEACH American. Seafood, burgers and sandwiches at the perfect beachy-casual spot. Open daily 11 a.m.–3 p.m. and 5–9 p.m. 30 Castle Harbour Dr., 850-641-0017. $$ L D

Blue Mountain Beach

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

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

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, award-winning gumbo and a great view of the Destin Harbor, and leave with a signature T-shirt from the gift shop. Open daily 11 a.m.–2 a.m.

288 B Harbor Blvd., 850-837-3645. L D BOSHAMPS SEAFOOD & OYSTER HOUSE ★ Seafood. Located on the beautiful Destin Harbor, this seafood spot will spoil you with spectacular sunsets, sensational Gulf-to-table Southern cuisine (including award-winning oysters!) and family-friendly service all in a fun, relaxed, casual atmosphere. Open daily at 11 a.m. 414 Harbor Blvd., Destin, 850-424-7406. $$ L D CALLAHAN’S RESTAURANT & DELI ★ American. Voted Best Locally Owned Restaurant 2008–2013, Callahan’s serves up great sandwiches, seafood specials and prime rib. Mon–Sat 10 a.m.–10 p.m.

791 Harbor Blvd., 850-837-6328. $ L D

rbor

...on the ha

ing uneiqnuues Featurh nig tly m

BEST SEAFOOD RESTAURANT 2010-2013

Full Bar • Outdoor S ea

Lunch menu available 11AM-3PM

ting

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

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

...overlooking Crab Island

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

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

CRUST PIZZERIA Italian. New York-style brick oven pizza. Ask about our specials. Mon–Thu EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM June–July 2014

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Hours: Restaurant 11am -9pm Delivery ’till 9pm Jazz Brunch - Sundays 11am -2pm Bar open serving T-bites ’till we kick you out

850.622.9101

306 Bald Eagle Drive • Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459

Photos by GulfCoastRestaurants.com

Dine In, Carry Out Delivery, Catering

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Clemenza’s

The Tradition Continues

Mama Clemenza’s European Breakfast

Lunch: Monday to Friday 11am to 2pm Lunch: M–F 11am–2pm Dinner: Monday to Friday 5pm to 9pm, Dinner: M–F 5pm–9pm, 5pm–9:30pm Saturday 5pm toSat 9:30pm

Breakfast: Breakfast Saturday 8-12pm Sunday 8-1pm Sat 8am–noon, Sun 8am–1pm

850-243-0707 · 75 EglinSte Parkway, Walton BeachFL ·32548 UptownUptown StationStation 850•243•0707 99 Eglin Pkwy 126 FortFort Walton Beach, 114 June–July 2014

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dining 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 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

D

P R I M E

S T E A K S

&

S E A F O O D

L D

DONUT HOLE BAKERY CAFE American. Head to the Donut Hole for an out-of-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 HARD ROCK CAFÉ American. Rock ’n’ roll, great drinks and mouthwatering menu. Open daily 11 a.m. 4260 Legendary Dr., Destin Commons, 850-654-3310. $ L D HARRY T’S ★ Seafood. Lounge on the beautiful patio and watch the passing boats as you enjoy an endless variety of delicious dishes. Mon–Thu 11 a.m.–10 p.m., Fri–Sat 11 a.m.–11 p.m., Sun 10 a.m.–10 p.m. 46 Harbor Blvd., 850-654-4800. $$ B L D 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 JIM ’N NICK’S BAR-B-Q ★ Barbecue. Southern smokehouse barbecue. Beer and wine. Open daily 11 a.m. 14073 Emerald Coast Pkwy., 850-351-1991. $ L D JOHNNY O’QUIGLEY’S ★ American. Award-winning steak, seafood and barbecue in one of Destin’s favorite sports bars. Mon–Thu 11 a.m.–midnight, Fri–Sun 11 a.m.–1 a.m, Double Happy Hour Mon–Fri 3–6 p.m. and 10 p.m.–close. 34940 Emerald Coast Pkwy., 850-837-1015. $LD LOUISIANA LAGNIAPPE Cajun and Seafood. View the Old Pass Lagoon while dining on steaks and a wide variety of fresh seafood. Open daily 5–10 p.m. 775 Gulf Shores Dr., 850-837-0881. $$ D MARINA CAFÉ American. Gourmet pizzas, Creole and American cuisine. Open daily 5–10 p.m.

404 E. Hwy. 98, 850-837-7960. $$ D MIMMO’S RISTORANTE ITALIANO Italian. Mimmo’s is the new hot spot in Destin for authentic Italian dishes bursting with flavor and color. Enjoy happy hour at the full bar serving authentic Italian cocktails. Catering available. Open Mon–Fri 11 a.m–10 p.m., Sat–Sun 5–10 p.m. 979 Highway 98, Suite 5, 850-460-7353. $$ L D OSAKA ★ Japanese. Known for its sushi but serves a variety of dishes, including chicken, steak and seafood. Lunch 11 a.m.–2:30 p.m., Dinner 5–10:30 p.m.

34845 Emerald Coast Pkwy., 850-650-4688 or 850-650-4689. $$ L D

A CELEBRATION FOR ALL SEASONS Chef Dan Vargo prepares seasonally inspired menus that delight and indulge the senses. 600 wine choices guarantee a perfect pairing.

R E SE R VAT I ON S

8 5 0 - 6 2 2-1 5 0 0 Located at Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa 4000 Sandestin Blvd. South, Destin, FL 32550 www.Seagars.com | Contact@Seagars.com

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 EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM June–July 2014

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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

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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 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 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

a taste for ...

COASTAL CUISINE WITH A NEW ORLEANS FLAIR 850.622.0760 bist robijouxdestin.com new location coming soon

Raw Food

What Truth Tastes Like

T

hose who believe in raw food take the “apple a day” theory to a whole new level. Staunch raw foodies follow a diet of primarily unheated food, or food cooked at less than 104 °F to 115 °F. They can be divided between those that advocate raw veganism or vegetarianism, those that advocate a raw omnivorous diet and those that advocate a 100 percent raw carnivorous diet.

The idea is that foods cooked above this temperature lose much of their nutritional value and are less healthful or even harmful to the body. Advocates believe that raw or living foods have natural enzymes, which are critical in building proteins and rebuilding the body, and that heating these foods destroys the natural enzymes and can leave toxins behind.

Jennifer Kuntz, who owns Raw & Juicy in Seaside, has made a living out of not cooking delicious and healthy raw foods served out of an airstream trailer in Seaside since 2008 and recently added a to-go kiosk in Seacrest Beach.

Kuntz offers raw food and juicing classes and workshops called “Reviving Your Life” out of a space she calls The Kitchen in Santa Rosa Beach (see schedule at rawandjuicylife.com).

For Kuntz, eating raw food is a lifestyle choice. A video that streams from her website explains her food philosophy: “It’s a personal choice to feel good … and when you feel good, you look good.”

For her, the adage “you are what you eat” goes well beyond food groups. “It’s about being alive and feeling alive. It’s a way of life. An honest way of being in the world … and I like that.”

— Zandra Wolfgram

extraordinary event

transform your VISION INTO AN

an event production company

WEDDINGS · EVENTS · RENTALS · CONSULTING 850.837.6595 · rsvpdestin.com EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM June–July 2014

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on the menu

THE MARIGNY’S ROAST BEEF POOR BOY

It’s summertime, so eat your heart out while you are out and about on the EC! After a refreshing day in the Florida sunshine, satisfy your hunger by filling your plate with perfectly slow roasted poor boys, hearty burgers charged with flavor and cheeky cheesecake confections.

Lunch THE MARIGNY, SANTA ROSA BEACH

We have all seen dishes from famous food cities crash and burn on local menus. Until now. A “band of brothers” from New Orleans (namely Chris Rose, Chris Mongogna and Jason Jaume) has relocated to Santa Rosa Beach and brought their Crescent City cooking chops with them. The Marigny serves up pure creole cuisine for lunch and dinner. This neighborhood-style restaurant/bar is quickly becoming known for one particular dish popular in New Orleans: THE ROAST BEEF POOR BOY. This version features succulent slow cooked bottom round roast beef drizzled with debris thickened jus and served “dressed” with Blue Plate mayo, lettuce, tomato and pickles on French bread from the Leidenheimer Baking Company in Baton Rouge. Chris Rose says right on the menu: “We talk too much and laugh too loud and live too large and, frankly, we’re suspicious of others who don’t.”

Well, these boys certainly put a mouth-watering winner where their mouth is on this one. Who Dat! $11.95 (for medium)

Dinner ELEPHANT WALK AT SANDESTIN, MIRAMAR BEACH

Elephant Walk is back better than before. We did not forget about its specialty, Grouper Elizabeth, but we have found a new fan favorite certain to have patrons charging the kitchen — THE ELEPHANT WALK BURGER. This burger keeps things simple. The focus is on fresh ingredients and big flavor. The burger features a generous portion of grilled ground certified Angus beef steak topped with tangy Tillamook cheddar cheese, “E-walk sauce,” lettuce and tomato served up on a sourdough bun and served with fresh cut fries. It’s a bodacious bite we are certain not to forget any time soon! $15 PEPITO’S MEXICAN RESTAURANT, DESTIN

We are not typically a fan of fried foods, and certainly not desserts, but this creamy little creation changed all that. The CHIMI CHEESECAKE at Pepito’s is made with a thin tortilla filled with light, fluffy cheesecake, lightly fried and then rolled in a coating of sugar and cinnamon. It’s served with a scoop of butter pecan ice cream, drizzled with caramel and topped with a dollop of fresh whipped cream and a cherry. This delicious little ditty will have you chirping Chim Chim Chimi! $4.59 118 June–July 2014

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PHOTO BY SCOTT HOLSTEIN

Dessert

dining 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 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

BEST HIBACHI

18 H ibac ib achi hi Tables Tab able less · Sushi Sushi Bar · Private Dining g · Happy ppy Hour 4–6 4 Hibachi 850.650.4688 or 850.650.4689 • 34745 Emerald Coast Parkway / Destin EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM June–July 2014

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C allahan’ s Restaurnat & Deli

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 Best Locally Owned Restaurant 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013

PRIME RIB STEAK SEAFOOD

Best Deli 2000, 2002, 2003

PASTA

Best Salad 2000

SALADS SANDWICHES

Best Value 2001, 2002

BURGERS

Best Casual Dining 2002, 2007

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. $$$ L D MITCHELL’S FISH MARKET Seafood. Chef-driven dishes such as Cedar Roasted Atlantic Salmon or HoisinGlazed Yellow Fin Tuna. Lunch Mon–Sat 11 a.m.–4 p.m., Sun 11 a.m.–3 p.m., Dinner Mon–Thu 4–10 p.m., Fri–Sat 4–11 p.m., Sun 3–9 p.m. Grand Boulevard Sandestin, 850-650-2484. $$ L D P.F. CHANG’S CHINA BISTRO ★ Asian. Sample crunchy lettuce wraps or Chinese favorites like Kung Pao Chicken in a chic atmosphere. Open Sun–Thu 11 a.m.–10 p.m., Fri–Sat 11 a.m.–11 p.m.

10640 Grand Blvd., 850-269-1806. $$ L D PEPITO’S ★ Mexican. Voted Best Mexican on the Emerald Coast. Authentic Mexican cuisine, delicious margaritas and weekly specials. Open daily 11 a.m.–10 p.m.

11225 Hwy 98, 850-269-7788. $$ L D



Callahan’s Restaurant and Deli is located in Downtown Destin on the north side of Scenic Highway 98. Our goal is to always deliver the best of everything we offer. We always endeavor to bring you the most superior quality items available from today’s market place.

Daily Lunch and Dinner Specials • Fine Selection of Domestic & Imported Wines & Beer & Cocktails Hours Mon - Sat 10 a.m. - 9 p.m. • Sunday 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. Breakfast - Light Lunch Downtown Destin • Oldtime Pottery Plaza • 791 Harbor Blvd. (Hwy 98) • 837-7171 • callahansdestin.com

Capt.on Dave’s the Gulf Casual Gulf Front Dining The locals’ favorite since 1968!

POPPY’S SEAFOOD FACTORY Seafood. Enjoy fresh seafood, steak and poultry dishes with a view of the bay.

Open 11 a.m.–9 p.m. daily. Village of Baytowne Wharf, 850-351-1996. $$$ L D ROYAL ORCHID Thai. Escape to Thailand at this authentic Thai restaurant. Sink into a traditional sunken table surrounded by pillows or dine American style at a table or booth. Thu–Tue 11 a.m.–9:30 p.m. Closed Wed. 11275 Emerald Coast Pkwy., 850-650-2555. $$ L D RUM RUNNERS American. Caribbean/coastal/Mediterranean menu with sandwiches, seafood, steaks, chicken and pasta. Open daily for lunch and dinner.

Village of Baytowne Wharf, 850-267-8117. $$ L D SEAGAR’S PRIME STEAKS AND SEAFOOD ★ Steak and Seafood. Premium steak, fresh seafood and caviar. Open 6 p.m. daily. Hilton Sandestin. 4000 S. Sandestin Blvd., 850-622-1500. $$$ D TOMMY BAHAMA’S RESTAURANT & BAR ★ Caribbean. Get a taste of the islands with jerk spices, fresh fish and the best desserts on the coast as voted by readers of Emerald Coast Magazine. Open Sun–Thu 11 a.m.–11 p.m. Fri–Sat 11 a.m.–midnight. 525 Grand Blvd., 850-654-1743. $$ L D VIN’TIJ WINE BOUTIQUE & BISTRO American. Traditional favorites and unique house dishes. Open daily 11 a.m.– midnight. 10859 W. Emerald Coast Pkwy., Suite 103, 850-650-9820. $ L D

Niceville/Valparaiso

COMPASS ROSE RESTAURANT AND BAR Caribbean. Waterfront dining overlooking Tom’s Bayou. The cuisine is coastal with a Caribbean-West Indies flair. Enjoy Happy Hour, daily specials and Sunday brunch. Tue–Thur 11 a.m.–9 p.m.,Fri 11 a.m.–10 p.m., Sat 4–10 p.m., Sun 10 a.m.–3 p.m. 303 Glen Ave., 850-389-2125. $$ L D ONE 20 A MODERN BISTRO ★ American. Modern American cuisine specializing in seafood, steaks and local fresh produce. Lunch Tue–Fri 11 a.m.–3 p.m. Dinner Tue–Sat 5–9 p.m., Brunch Sun 11 a.m.–3 p.m. Closed Monday. 120 Partin Drive North, Niceville, 850-729-2120. $$ B L D

Serving local Florida seafood and steaks Dinner 4 pm UNTIL … 7 days a week Join us for cocktails on the deck for sunset Daily Happy Hour 4–6 pm

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

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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. $$ D CAFÉ TANGO American. Seafood, poultry and pasta served with specialty sauces.Homemade desserts. Open Tue–Sun 5–10 p.m. 14 Vicki St., 850-267-0054. $$$ 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

2008 - Best Italian 2009 - Best Pizza 2010 - Best Pizza & Best Chef 2011 - Best Pizza, Best Italian & Best Chef 2012 - Best Italian 2013 - Best Pizza & Best Walton Restaurant

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

Award-winning wood-fired pizza and classical Italian cuisine

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

fatclemenzas.com 850.650.5980 Lunch M–F 11–2 · Dinner M–Th 5–9:30, F–Sat 5–10 12273 US Hwy 98, Miramar Beach

ANGELINA’S PIZZA & PASTA Italian. Authentic homemade pizza pie and Italian dishes in a casual atmosphere. Lunch and dinner daily: 11 a.m.–9:30 p.m. 4005 E. Hwy. 30A, 850-231-2500. $ L D BUD & ALLEY’S RESTAURANT American. A pioneer of farm- and sea-to-table dining serving fresh seafood, steak and vegetarian dishes. Famous bell ringing tradition with Happy Hour specials daily at sunset overlooking the Gulf. Open 11:30 a.m. Mon–Fri. Roof bar open 11:30 p.m.–2 a.m. in summer. 2236 E. Hwy. 30A, 850-231-5900. $$$ L D

THE

Most Recommended

Thai Restaurant

CAFÉ THIRTY-A Seafood. Seafood, lamb, duck, filet mignon and pizza. Open daily 5 p.m.

3899 E. Hwy. 30A, 850-231-2166. $$ D CRUSH American. Crush features an extensive wine menu, sushi and small plates. Open daily for lunch and dinner, noon–10 p.m. 25 Central Sq., 850-468-0703. $$ L D GREAT SOUTHERN CAFÉ Southern. Jim Shirley serves up Southern comfort food with a twist.

Open daily for breakfast 8–11 a.m., lunch 11 a.m.–4 p.m., dinner 4–11:30 p.m.

83 Central Sq., 850-231-7327. $$ B L D LA BOTANA Tapas. Small plates of Latin-inspired cuisine served in a casual but elegant atmosphere. Wine bar. Lunch and dinner Mon–Fri 4–11 p.m., Sat–Sun 11 a.m.–11 p.m. 4281 E. Hwy. 30A, 850-231-0716. $$ L D LA COCINA MEXICAN GRILL & BAR Mexican. Traditional Tex-Mex with a coastal twist. Open daily 11 a.m.–3 p.m. and 5–9 p.m. Bar open until 10 p.m. 10343 E. Hwy. 30A, 850-231-4021. $$ L D OLD FLORIDA FISH HOUSE AND BAR Seafood. Rustic seafood restaurant featuring a new take on old seafood favorites. Full bar. Dinner daily 5 p.m. 5235 Hwy. 30A, 850-534-3045. $$ D V SEAGROVE RESTAURANT Seafood. Chef David Cunningham serves up fresh seafood and produce that is locally sourced in a resort casual atmosphere. Open Tue–Sat at 6 p.m. Closed Sundays. 2743 E. County Highway 30A, Seagrove, 850-468-0973. $$$ D SEAGROVE VILLAGE MARKET CAFÉ Steak and Seafood. Enjoy surf-and-turf and a glass of wine, then shop for gifts and souvenirs in the adjacent gift shop. Open 10:30 a.m.–8:30 p.m. daily.

3004 S. County Rd. 395, 850-231-5736. $$ L D ec

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Voted Best Thai in 2010 « 2011 » 2012

by the readers of Emerald Coast Magazine!

Best Thai 2011–2014

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121

the last word

Me an’ Dad on the Rocks “GET US OFF THE ROCKS, SON!”

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t’s a starry autumn night in 1978, it’s 40 degrees and we’re bow fishing in a maze of islands.

Dad stands like a lighthouse on a wooden platform in the bow of our aluminum jon boat, and he’s not happy. I’ve accidentally put us up on an oyster bar in some remote cove in Ozello, in the wilds of coastal Citrus County.

As with most of these trips, Dad is in the bow with the bow, and I’m in the stern handling the tiller of our trolling motor.

I’m bundled up in a corduroy parka and my 9-year-old ears are covered up by an aqua and orange Miami Dolphins knit cap with a pompom on the top. (It came straight out of the 1977 Sears Christmas catalog). Dad is slightly less constrained.

He’s wearing a heavy cotton olive-drab Army shirt, a windbreaker and a black knit cap. We do have something in common: Our shoes are muddy and flecked with tiny pieces of shell, and we both smell like saltwater and fish blood.

Dad wears a headlamp powered by a lantern battery slung around his waist. I have no headlamp and rely on his voice to guide me.

It’s pretty challenging to navigate like this at night. The only other directional aids I have in this cold vacuum of space are the twinkling lights of the Crystal River power plant to the north and west. There are some scattered shore lights, but they tell me nothing.

More useful is the loud jukebox (or band) at the Pirate’s Cove bar next to the boat ramp.

If we stay within earshot, we’re good.

Ordinarily, this “system” works rather well. But at this moment we’ve done a lot of

122 June–July 2014

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM

BY JASON DEHART

twisting and turning trying to follow something, and I’ve managed to lose what little bearings I had. And, not unexpectedly, I put us up on a bar.

I can’t blame my confusion on a faulty GPS, nor can I say I was distracted by a Nook, iPad or by posting duck faces on Facebook. Those things are decades in the future.

No, we’re stuck on the rocks because I’m 9 years old, it’s dark, I’m cold, I can’t see where I’m going and I can’t move fast enough. And, I’m probably just a little flustered.

The tiller jumps out of my hands as the caged motor fairing bounces noisily against the jagged rock and shell. I get spattered good with cold, muddy water, slimy weeds and shell fragments.

“What Daddy? I can’t hear you — we’re on the rocks!” I meekly yell back, as I try to regain control.

The beam of light darts angrily to and fro until it turns and fixes on me. I would compare it to the Eye of Sauron searching for the One Ring.

“I said, get us off the rocks!”

Sheepishly, I slide the drive shaft out of the water and lay the tiller down. Dad takes a wooden pole and I take an oar and we rock the boat until we’re off the bar and back in deeper water.

Soon, we’re back to searching the cove for our quarry. Dad’s anger is only momentary as we get back to business and his light again searches and darts across the water.

The beam comes amidships, and I see swirling brown sea grass, rocks, sand and the occasional blue crab dancing sideways under the rippling waves. We pass slowly by an island with tall cedar trees, and I can hear

the cold night wind rustle their boughs. In the starlight I see the vague outlines of an abandoned fishing shack being taken over by cedars, and wispy curtains dance ghostlike in empty window frames. I’m struck by the dilapidated old shack and wonder who built it.

Crossing open water between islands, I find myself being lulled to sleep by the gentle sound of the waves popping against the hull, the gentle rocking motion as Dad adjusts himself in his aluminum chair and the faint twinkling of stars overhead. A star arches into a shimmering curve and is gone, followed by a companion a moment later.

Dad pans his light down alongside the boat and does a double take. He’s seen something interesting in the sea grass below us and says, “Take a look.” I lean over the edge a little and see dozens of tiny red eyes. It’s a colony of shrimp, and they look like a string of Christmas tree lights. Too bad we don’t have a dip net or we’d be adding shrimp to tomorrow’s meal of mullet and flounder.

Our time on the water draws to a close, and Dad points me in the direction that will take us back to the boat ramp. His lamp battery is running low, as is the car battery powering the trolling motor. In a little while the bow is scraping against the concrete ramp, bringing us to a stop. Dad hops out and pulls the boat up the ramp. I get out and help him load the boat into the truck, and an hour or so later we’re home safe again.

Years later we mingled some of dad’s ashes in those waters. I still can’t believe the old man’s gone. Now I’m the grownup and some days are tough, but it’s OK. I know now that he’s still standing in the bow, guiding me along and showing me the way home. ec