Our 13th Annual Guide to the Best of Everything on the Emerald Coast
132 WINNERS! THE EMER ALD COAST MAGA ZINE
$3.95
www.emeraldcoastmagazine.com
OCT-NOV 2013
A product of Rowland Publishing, Inc.
Can you name all 21 of these 2013 Best of the Emerald Coast winners? Go to our website and find out.
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TOE-TAPPIN’ BEAUTIES SERVE UP FUN AT DESTIN’S ‘WILDEST’ BAR AN INSIDE LOOK AT THE LIFE OF OUR COMMERCIAL FISHERMEN GO BEHIND THE SCENES OF HGTV’S ‘HOUSE HUNTERS’
AT T O R N E YS AT L AW
INSIGHT INTEGRITY INNOVATION
REMEMBERING THE PAST, SEEING THE FUTURE
destinlaw.com DESTIN 4475 LEGENDARY DRIVE | DESTIN, FL 32541 | 850.837.3662 PHONE | 850.654.1634 FAX NICEVILLE 323 E. JOHN SIMS PARKWAY | NICEVILLE, FL 32578 | 850.729.7440 PHONE | 850.729.7871 FAX EmeraldCoastMagazine.com October–November 2013
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SO YOU THINK RED SNAPPER IS EXPENSIVE? Spend a week with DALE BEEBE. He catches an average of POUNDS of red snapper on a five day trip. His fish are caught on
7,000
HOOK AND LINE, GUTTED, PACKED in crushed ice, and delivered to our market in beautiful condition.
In SIX FOOT SEAS, with wind chill in the teens, the rain blowing sideways and a raging tide, Dale Beebe is still catching red snapper.
THINK AGAIN. HARBOR DOCKS _ GULF TO TABLE SINCE 1979 Check our website to find out which restaurants sell certified Gulf-to-Table fish from Harbor Docks Seafood Market. S E A F O O D & C O C K TA I L S
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contents This story takes you to the underbelly of Harbor Docks … where the non-stop action is all about bringing the Gulf to your table.
F E AT UR ES
70 HARBORING THE TRUTH
Photo By Kansas Pitts
An inside look at the life of Destin’s commercial fishermen. By Rosanne Dunkelberger
OF THE EMERALD 78 BEST COAST WINNERS
The votes are in and the invitations are out. We toast the best of the Emerald Coast for 2013. By Zandra Wolfgram
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contents
in the e.c. 19 Snapshot We go Slow and Low with Patrick Tarpey. 21 Well-Worded Author Rickie Bovee Wood’s “supernatural” talent. 23 Historicity Let us take you on a haunted history tour. 25 Personality Presenting … the talented Mr. Thom Gossom Jr. 31 Giving Back This community organization is in a League all its own. 34 What’s Haute Purchase the power of pink. 37 Chat We salute the Emerald Coast’s most patriotic pizza man. 41 Scene Have you heard the latest about the Emerald Coast?
happenings 43 Spotlight This piano is key to raising funds for Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation. 44 Vibe The wild call of Coyote Ugly. 51 Calendar Let us fill your social calendar with festive fall events. 65 Social Studies We have our eye focused on the EC scene.
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91 Eudaimonia Just Say the Word for a great night of poetry. 92 Habitat We hunted down two local HGTV design stars. 103 FYI One of the few fights that has us rooting for the quitter. 105 Gardening Let there be light (bulbs) this spring! 108 Flavor Do you crave something new? Try these three offbeat dining spots. 112 Dining Let us guide you to savor the flavors of the Emerald Coast. 116 On the Menu … Killer Sharkfin pie, oh my! 120 A Taste For … a cancer-free diet!
A WORD WITH YOU 12 From the Publisher 14 Editor’s Note 17 Feedback 122 The Last Word
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Special Sections
Matt Williams
96 Deal Estate
Follow us @emeraldcoastmag
Like us at facebook.com/emeraldcoast
Photos by Scott Holstein (p. 44, 108) and courtesy of George Rodrigue Foundation of the Arts (p. 43)
the good life
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DWULAW.COM SANTA ROSA BEACH 850.534.0246 124 East County Road 30A | Grayton Beach, FL 32459 (1.5 Miles West of Watercolor) EmeraldCoastMagazine.com October–November 2013
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Vol. 14, No. 5 October–November 2013 The Emerald Coast Magazine
President/Publisher
Brian E. Rowland
EDITORIAL
Director of Editorial Services Linda Kleindienst Editor Zandra Wolfgram Staff Writer Jason Dehart Editorial Coordinator Chay D. Baxley Contributing Writers Laura Bradley, Elvin C. Bell, Danielle Buenrostro, Rosanne Dunkelberger, Jennifer Howard, Martha J. LaGuardia-Kotite, Tracy Louthain, Andi Mahoney, Thomas J. Monigan, Audrey Post, L. Jordan Swanson, Zandra Wolfgram Editorial Interns Domonique Davis, Taylor Centers, Darius Thomas, Cecelia Smith-Schoenwalder Prepress Specialist Melinda Lanigan
CREATIVE
Creative Director Lawrence Davidson Assistant Creative Director Saige Roberts Senior Graphic Designer Jennifer Ekrut Graphic Designers Lizzie Moore, Shruti Shah Advertising Designers Jillian Fry, Monica Perez Production Manager/Network Administrator Daniel Vitter Staff Photographer Scott Holstein Contributing Photographers Tommy Crow, Kay Phelan, Kansas Pitts, Howard Robinson, Shelly Swanger, Zandra Wolfgram, Allison Yii
reinspired /URœNEWœLOOKœANDœINSPIREDœœ NEWœMENUœSELECTIONSœœ COMPLEMENTœTHEœPRIMEœSTEAKSœœ ANDœSEAFOODœTHATœMADEœ3EAGARaSœœ $ESTINaSœPREMIERœRESTAURANT 0ERFECTIONœJUSTœGOTœBETTER
SALES AND MARKETING
Marketing and Sales Manager McKenzie Burleigh Director of New Business Daniel Parisi Traffic Coordinator Lisa Sostre Sales Executives Rhonda Lynn Murray, Darla Harrison, Lori McGee, Tracy Mulligan, Chris St. John, Paula Sconiers, Drew Gregg Westling
OPERATIONS
Administrative Services Manager Melissa Tease Client Service Representative Caroline Conway Special Projects And Events Coordinator Lynda Belcher Accounting Specialists Josh Faulds, Tabby Hamilton Receptionists Tristin Kroening, Jazmeen Sule
WEB
Social Media/Systems Management Specialist Carlin Trammel Emerald Coast Magazine instagram.com/emeraldcoastmag emeraldcoastmagazine.com pinterest.com/emeraldcoastmag facebook.com/emeraldcoast youtube.com/user/emeraldcoastmag twitter.com/emeraldcoastmag Rowland Publishing rowlandpublishing.com
SUBSCRIPTIONS
Reservations 850-622-1500 R 850 622 1500 0 At the Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa Destin, Florida
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One Year (6 issues) is $30 Call (850) 878-0554 or go online to emeraldcoastmagazine.com Single copies are $3.95 Purchase at Barnes and Noble in Destin and Books-A-Million in Destin and at Sun Plaza in Mary Esther.
Editorial Office 1932 Miccosukee Road, Tallahassee, FL, 32308 Customer Service & Submissions EC Magazine and Rowland Publishing, Inc. are not responsible for unsolicited manuscripts, photography or artwork. Editorial contributions are welcomed and encouraged but will not be returned. EC Magazine reserves the right to publish any letters to the editor. Copyright October 2013 Emerald Coast Magazine Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is prohibited.
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from the publisher Time to Celebrate the ‘Best’ of the Emerald Coast
— Brian Rowland browland@rowlandpublishing.com
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on the cover
Our playful cover art concept, by Larry Davidson, features letters from the signage and brand names of 21 different Best of the Emerald Coast winners. This year, 132 winners can proudly spell the secret of their success with just four letters: B-E-S-T! Photography by Scott Holstein
Photo by Scott Holstein
It is the “Best” time of the year again, and on Oct. 19 at Grand Boulevard EC Magazine and the Junior League of the Emerald Coast will host a community gathering where the businesses that you have chosen as the best in the region will showcase — and have you sample — their products and food. This annual fundraiser by the Junior League helps to fund its mission, which includes promoting volunteerism and improving the community through programs that range from helping children in need and historic preservation to environmental concerns and cultural affairs. This is the 13th year we are joining with the Junior League to promote the “Best of the Emerald Coast,” and we’re happy to be partnering with JLEC President Christie Owens to make this the best event it can be. The evening has become “a favorite” event of the community, and on behalf of the Junior League and EC, we thank you for your loyal support. I would like you to welcome four new associates to the Rowland Publishing team as we go through some growing pains that, frankly, just hurt so good! Drew Gregg Westling and Paula Sconiers have joined our expanding sales team and will be focusing on 850 — The Business Magazine of Northwest Florida and the many special projects we have undertaken. Monica Perez and Jillian Fry are the newest additions to our growing design team. I also want you to be on the lookout for our newest endeavor, which is premiering this winter — Northwest Florida Weddings 2014. It’s no surprise that Northwest Florida — with its wide array of wedding settings on our coast, in our cities and in the country — has become a bride favorite for the big day. We look forward to showcasing many of these outstanding wedding venues in a new annual Rowland publication that will make its debut in the February/ March issue of EC. To change gears, you will see in this issue a letter from the CEO of BP, who has expressed his deep concern about the amount of fraudulent damage claims the company has been dealing with. And he’s made it very clear that BP is committed to seeking out and prosecuting those who are trying to take advantage of a very good thing. I applaud his efforts and hope that those who have their hand in the cookie jar feel the wrath of justice. From my perspective, I feel BP has stepped up and done the right thing in its efforts to clean up after the spill: provide funds to boost regional tourism; pay off legitimate individual and corporate damage claims; provide the extra dollars to combat environmental damage caused by the April 2010 event; and fund long-term environmental research projects for the Gulf. In no way do I perceive this tragedy as a malicious and intentional act on the part of BP. It was an accident, much like what happened with the Three Mile Island nuclear meltdown in Pennsylvania and the Exxon Valdez oil spill in Alaska. Could it have been avoided? Maybe. But accidents happen, and they will again. When one is dealing with humans and machinery, the law of averages will eventually catch up and result in another tragic event. After spending more than two years and billions of dollars on helping to promote tourism in our region — in an effort that was quite successful — BP is now investing money in improving its own brand, as any global company would do after a tragedy the magnitude of the Gulf spill. I hold no resentment for two reasons. First and foremost, resentment and hate will just eat you up. Secondly, the company is stepping up and making good with those who have suffered harm. Hope you have a great fall, and we’ll see you at the Best of the Emerald Coast!
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An Accessory That Goes With Everything ... Love
Just thinking about repurposing a treasure in a way that brings it even closer to you is so exciting to me ... in doing so, you reinvent yourself and reboot your perspective. Everything is brand new once again. That is the essence of creating a new beginning. That is everything to me, and I can’t believe I am lucky enough to know someone who does this for a living. Local jewelry artist Mary Kay Samouce, whose design line is called Adorn by Samouce, is known for her over-the-top statement pieces fashioned largely from vintage trinkets and treasures. But you may not know that she delights when clients challenge her with old, A broken charm bracelet my broken, forgotten jewels that she father gave me can restring, reconfigure and revive as a child and into new, inspired works of art. “jewels” from my mother When I was looking for a festive and one of my way to celebrate my first year as a sister’s, who is also a breast cancer survivor, I could think of no cancer survivor, better way than to surround myself were given new with some of my favorite things — life by Mary Kay Samouce in this dear gal pals, Mary Kay’s beautiful, lovely one-of-abold jewelry and, of course, plenty kind statement of pink champagne and cupcakes. piece we named Going Like many of the glittering For Baroque. gems and trinkets that fill Mary Kay’s velvet trays, I am a work in progress. With every treatment, every milestone, every day I grew stronger, I felt like I was slowly, but surely, reinventing myself. After a year, I was more than ready to honor my body for its hard work with a little sparkle … and celebrate. The design process of choosing lovely vintage broaches, charms and chains and fashioning them into something beautiful and new was symbolic of my treatment and recovery. And to have so many caring friends who had helped me get through such an intense ordeal be able to enjoy this creative experience with me was the greatest gift of all. It was thrilling to watch the transformation of broken baubles into exquisite oneof-a-kind pieces of jewelry that evoked the unique personality and spirit of each of my friends. Now, when I wear my sparkling, made-just-for-me “designer jewels” I can remember the experience and feel renewed, strong, creative and … loved. Mary Kay once told me her design approach to her jewelry art is “Go big or go home. Just keep it exciting.” Perhaps it’s a mantra we should all try to live by. Why not? As accessories go, a positive attitude is definitely a statement piece that goes with just about everything, don’t you think?
—Z andra Wolfgram editor@emeraldcoastmagazine.com
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editor’s picks A Smokin’ Prevention Program October is Fire Safety Prevention month. When I was growing up we looked to Smokey the Bear for all we needed to know about fire prevention and safety. Today, students in Okaloosa County can get hands-on education through live lessons, videos, demonstrations and re-enactments inside the snazzy Fire Safety House operated by the Mary Esther Fire Department. The Fire House is mobile, so it can visit schools, public events and special events by request. Now, that is one smokin’ outreach program! For more information, contact Frank Matheny at the Mary Esther Fire Department at (850) 243-5632. Positivity is the Prettiest Accessory Attitude is a choice, but we can all use a reminder from time to time. I love this pretty wearable reminder to stay positive. Each one-size-fits-all, stretchy nylon and rhodium bracelet is embossed with the uplifting word, “Positivity.” Packaged in a set of three. You can wear one as a bracelet or anklet and give a little “happy” to friends and family as a gift. I like hot pink to honor breast cancer awareness month, but they also come in purple, lime green, light blue, yellow, orange or red. Available online at Choose Hope.com or by calling (888) 348-4673.
CLARIFICATION
In the August/September 2013 Chat story [“Julio Fernandez: The Gospel Truth From a Social Media Evangelist”], we should have written Julio Fernandez is from Colombia, his primary company is Socialshelfspace. com; the mobile marketing site he created is www.dest.in, and one of the smartphones he carries is a Samsung S3. We also apologize for omitting from a photo in Scene, Chef Frank Taylor of Global Grill, who is one of five Pensacola celebrity chefs to showcase his talents at the James Beard House in New York as part of the 500th anniversary of Florida.
Photos by Allison Yii and Courtesy www.alexas-angels.com/Alexa’s Angels (positivity bracelet) and Mary Kay Samouce (vitage bracelet)
editor’s note
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feedback A Letter from BP
Have a thought? Let us know what you think at editor@emeraldcoastmagazine. com, facebook.com/emeraldcoast or through twitter @emeraldcoastmag.
For the past three years, BP has worked with the people of the Gulf to help restore the region’s environment and economy. It’s been a big job, and we’ve tried to do the right thing and honor our commitments. So far, we’ve paid $14 billion in response and cleanup costs and more than 300,000 claims totaling $11 billion for spill-related losses. And we’re not done yet. Last year, we signed an agreement to compensate the vast majority of remaining individuals and businesses with legitimate claims related to the Gulf spill. Unfortunately, that settlement has been misinterpreted. We respectfully disagree with that interpretation, which is allowing trial lawyers to file fictitious or inflated claims that could ultimately cost billions of dollars. The prospect of such awards has ignited a feeding frenzy among plaintiffs’ lawyers. Brazen ads assure potential claimants that BP will be forced to pay them “even if your revenue increase[d]” or “even if losses are unrelated to the oil spill.” Whatever you may think about BP, we can all agree that it’s wrong for anyone to take money they don’t deserve. We should also be able to agree that the process for paying claims must be conducted with integrity. Anything less is a disservice to the people of the Gulf playing by the rules — commercial fishermen, restaurant and hotel owners, and other hard-working people who’ve filed legitimate claims for real losses. They deserve to know that the process for administering claims is fair and honest. We are equally concerned about a troubling allegation of unethical and potentially criminal behavior within the claims facility. We strongly believe that an independent investigation and a comprehensive and public audit of the facility by a reputable national accounting firm are needed. A claims system that does not have assurances of integrity does a disservice to our employees and contractors, who depend on BP to support their families, and to our shareholders, who enable us to provide energy and create jobs in America. Every dollar paid for a fictitious claim is a dollar BP will no longer have available to invest in America, where we currently support nearly 250,000 jobs. BP is pursuing legal remedies to restore fairness to the claims process. We have appealed the misinterpretation of the settlement agreement to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit, where oral argument is scheduled for early July. Some may say we’re backing away from our commitments. That is simply not true. As our actions over the past three years demonstrate, BP remains committed to paying legitimate claims. All we ask is that compensation go to people who actually suffered losses and that the process for paying claims be conducted with integrity. That’s what’s called for under the law and our settlement.
Thank you to our loyal EC Magazine readers for the tremendous support of the August/September 2013 cover story “Modern Slavery,” which explored local efforts to end human trafficking. Here are a few of the comments we have received:
John C. MingÉ Chairman and President of BP America Inc.
Just finished the new EC Magazine and have to take a minute to tell you how impressed I was with it. Cheers to you for taking on issues that are meaty and not fluffy … and still giving them an Emerald Coast twist. Well done!
Susan Lucas Santa Rosa Beach
Your cover story is really a great piece of journalism. Stacey Brady
This information will be widely distributed throughout our church, which has 1,985 resident members, and possibly outside our church (i.e. my wife’s local yogi group). I am co-chair of our Missions Committee, and we are continually looking for information such as these articles to assist us in reaching out to our community. I currently receive EC at my residence. I am a 63-year member of this community and deeply involved in missions on a broad scale. Thank you for your wide magazine distribution of this information. Robert Bennett Shalimar
ec online Check out what’s new on the EC scene Visit our newly redesigned online home at EmeraldCoastMagazine.com and come back often for cool contests, fun promotions and much more. » Behind-the-scenes takes » Plenty of extra pictures » Expanded stories » Exclusive video footage » The latest on the Best of the EC
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TITLE COMPANY
The Standard by Which Others are Measured
18 April–May 2013
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in the e.c.
Peopl e + St y le + H y p e
Snapshot
The Ultimate Fishing Challenge Five years ago, Patrick Tarpey relocated to Santa Rosa Beach from Las Vegas after the alluring emerald waters had him hooked. Inspired by his surroundings, Tarpey took up kayak fishing as a hobby, which quickly evolved into a business that’s been his passion ever since. Tarpey owns Slow & Low Coastal Outfitters (slowandlowcoastal.com) and has offered fishing adventures in both the Gulf and the bay from Panama City to Destin for the past three years. During a kayak fishing expedition with Tarpey, one can expect to encounter sea turtles (sometimes the size of Volkswagens), massive
sunfish, manta rays and dolphins. “You become a part of the aquatic environment as opposed to being an invader,” Tarpey said. Large catches that he and his guests have made include sailfish nearing the length of a kayak and tarpon weighing 140 pounds. Tarpey likened the hefty reel-ins to a “Florida sleigh ride.” This professional waterman recently expanded his business’ adventurous offerings with the addition of paddleboard fishing. “It’s the challenge,” he said of what makes the experience so memorable. — L. Jordan Swanson
See video at emeraldcoastmagazine.com
Snapshot
The Ultimate Fishing Challenge
Five years ago, Patrick Tarpey relocated to Santa Rosa Beach from Las Vegas after the alluring emerald waters had him hooked. Inspired by his surroundings, Tarpey took up kayak fishing as a hobby, which quickly evolved into a business that’s been his passion ever since. Tarpey owns Slow & Low Coastal Outfitters (slowandlowcoastal.com.) and has offered fishing adventures in both the Gulf and the Bay from Panama City to Destin for the past three years. During a kayak fishing expedition with Tarpey, one can expect to encounter sea turtles (sometimes the size of Volkswagens), massive sunfish, manta rays and dolphins. “You become a part of the aquatic environment as opposed to being an invader,” Tarpey said. Large catches that he and his guests have made include sailfish nearing the length of a kayak and tarpon weighing 140 pounds. Tarpey likened the hefty reel-ins to a “Florida sleigh ride.” This professional waterman recently expanded his business’ adventurous offerings with the addition of paddleboard fishing. “It’s the challenge,” he said of what makes the experience so memorable. — L. Jordan Swanson
Photo by Scott Holstein
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well-worded
Ghost Writer Haunted Victorian Homes Inspire Rickie Wood Bovee By Martha J. LaGuardia-Kotite
R
ickie Wood Bovee writes about ghosts. From Portland, Ore., the brown-eyed, blonde, 66-year-old grandmother moved to DeFuniak Springs in 1983. She developed her novel’s characters from supernatural tales townspeople shared about the haunting of some Victorian residences that encircle Lake DeFuniak — a rare, nearly symmetrical spring-fed lake which shaped the centerpiece for the 1880s railroad stop’s historic district and Bovee’s setting. “People like ghost stories,” Bovee said. “Victorian homes, for the most part, a lot of them have ghosts or weird things happen in them.” She believes in the possibility of ghosts. “Button Hook Child” (2011) takes place in the Cauthon House. “The last surviving Cauthon, living in that house, died in the mid-1990s. It was her ghost causing problems,” said Bovee of the owner’s testimony of strange events occurring during renovation. “The story is set in 2007, a couple who buy the house just won the lottery and are expecting a second child. Life is perfect. I guess you can say things are never perfect,” Bovee teases of her novel’s tragic tale. “Don’t Move the Coat” (2012) is set in a home near the lake where a solitary coat hangs in a closet. The coat inspired Bovee to create Gayle, the main character, who wants to make a new life and moves into the home. Gayle discovers its ghost, a Victorian lady from 1901, who makes trouble when the coat is touched. Before moving to DeFuniak Springs, Bovee and her husband, Jim, performed in the circus. “We were subcontractors, acrobatics, for various circuses,” she said. “He did all the tough stuff. We were there for fluff, but we did work.” The couple toured for 15 years with their daughters in “every state of the U.S. and every province of Canada,” and Bovee found the lifestyle satisfying. She also found fulfillment in writing. “There’s a little bit of me in every one of the books,” Bovee shared. “My Summer With Emma” (2013) departs from ghostly invention and centers on a girl named Emma who Bovee met her first day of school during her freshman year at an all-girls high school in Portland. Bovee learned Emma was sent to live with her aunt and uncle to avoid danger in the South.
Photo by Scott Holstein
“Why is it dangerous?” I asked. Emma said, “Because I’m a negro.” This was early ’61. I didn’t play stupid. I was stupid. I was 14 years old and wasn’t aware of what was going on in this country,” said Bovee. The topic of racism, her teenage encounter with Emma and touring with the circus in the South spurred Bovee to put pen to paper. “Sweet Melody,” a collaboration with her husband, will publish this year. Set in a Victorian home called The Harbeson House or Magnolia Manor, Bovee said the couple living there revealed they had mysterious scratches on their parlor floor, which became a spooky back-story for this book. Bovee’s books are sold on Amazon, at the Little Big Store in DeFuniak Springs and Sundog Books in Seaside. When she’s not writing or practicing gymnastics with Jim, they are sewing. The couple is known for period, handcrafted creations of elaborate dresses, suits, hats and purses. Bovee focuses on the Victorian era, because the women looked particularly feminine. “Probably,” she said, “because I’m a tomboy from way back.” In all that she does, Bovee relishes a test. “One of the reasons I started writing. It’s a challenge,” she said. ec
Excerpt from “My Summer With Emma” “As we pulled out of that miserable, dusty town, I sat next to the window and stared out, my face pressed against the glass, at the dreary scenery as it slowly slid past my sight, my tears wetting the window. I thought about all of Emma’s warnings before we left Portland and how naive I had been. I had no idea how right Emma would be.”
Author Rickie Wood Bovee, pictured in one of her Victorian period creations, appears right at home in historic DeFuniak Springs, which has inspired her to write three supernatural novels.
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historicity
Ghostly Encounters
Tour Brings Fort Walton Beach’s Spooky Past to Life By Danielle Buenrostro
Photos courtesy of Dub Scroggin
I
f you’re craving fun spine-tingling encounters with ghosts and other haunted happenings, mingle with the macabre this Halloween on a guided twilight tour of Fort Walton Beach’s ghostly past. In its sixth year, the Fort Walton Beach Heritage Park and Cultural Center is inviting families to venture Tour times are downtown this Halloween for an up close and personal en6:30 p.m., 7:15 p.m., 8 p.m. counter with a headless woman, a haunted restaurant and a and 8:45 p.m. blood thirsty pirate, just to name a few. A mix of history and on Oct. 25–26, folklore guide the walking Haunted History Tours featuring beginning at 10 to 13 landmark stops, said Jennifer Lamott, the museum’s the Heritage former program coordinator. Park and “It’s a great way to experience the main history of the city Cultural Center at 139 Miracle and have a little fun,” she said. Strip Pkwy. The tours began in 2008 as a fundraiser for the center and SE. For more a way to give locals an educational look at the city’s heritage information, and ghostly past. Volunteers dress in period clothing and role call (850) 833play in skits that bring to life characters like the Ghost of the 9595 or email French House, which is now the Magnolia Grill. For decades, hpcc@fwb.org. the ghost of an old lady who used to live there has haunted the building with many eyewitness accounts of her paranormal activity, most notably washing the dishes during a dinner party. According to reports, an artist resident named Sandran experienced the ghost taking over her paint brush for 40 minutes, covering her canvas with pictures of bunnies. While on the tour, participants will meet French sea captain, adventurer and privateer Pierre Le Moyne d’Iberville whose ships sailed the Gulf Coast waters during his expeditions to colonize along the Mississippi River. He stopped in the area in the 1690s to trade and resupply. In the process, he established some of the first settlements.
Hear of pirates pillaging and plundering in search for hidden treasure, and learn about the legend and exploits of Billy Bowlegs, the inspiration for the annual Billy Bowlegs Pirate Festival at The Landing Park in Fort Walton Beach. Meet another scallywag named Hunter Thompson, a former U. S. Air Force Airman First Class at Eglin known for his rebel attitude. Thompson’s shenanigans include sinking ships in the harbor, diving nude on a crowded beach and finding mischief at the Indian Mound Saloon. His insubordination cost him his military career but gave him freedom to pursue his passion for writing. He became a journalist at the local paper and went on to gain notoriety as author of “Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas” and “The Rum Diaries.” The 90-minute tour includes new skits every year and ends at the Camp Walton Schoolhouse Museum, built in 1912 and restored in 1976, where participants can enjoy refreshments with former teacher Minnie Tippins. Lamott said that while the content of the tour is appropriate for children, it is geared toward adults. Participants are encouraged to wear comfortable shoes and costumes are encouraged but not required. Tickets are $10 for adults and $7 for children and are available for cash only purchase in advance at the Indian Temple Mound Museum or on the night of the tour at 6 p.m. ec
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Bring home a little bit of Earth 4808 East Scenic Hwy 30A, Seagrove Beach, FL, 32459 phone: 850.231.2150 | email: info@Clay30A.com w w w. C l a y 3 0 A . c o m
24 October–November 2013
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personality
Playing the Good Guy Actor, writer, businessman Thom Gossom Jr. has taken ‘the scenic route’ in life By Jenifer Howard
F
or most of his life, Thomas “Thom” Gossom Jr. has played the role of the good guy. The successful athlete, TV and stage actor, writer and business professional radiates the potent combination of confidence and perseverance, complemented by finely honed communication skills. His earliest brush with fame was as the first African American athlete to graduate from Auburn University. He traded a successful football career for a flourishing business career then moved into a thriving acting career. Now in his sixth decade,
Photo by Scott Holstein
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personality he often lands parts as a thoughtful, sincere judge. Can you blame him for wanting a shot at playing a bad guy? Football players who faced off against Auburn in the early 1970s probably did not see Gossom as such a good guy. The Birmingham native had come to the university in 1970 without a scholarship or a place on the team. “Walking-on” to a Division I college team is a daunting experience for anyone — and more challenging as Gossom was one of only two African-Americans on the team. He was the fastest player on the field and played well enough to earn an athletic scholarship. The wide receiver lettered for three years and is still remembered for a number of game-clinching catches. The 61-year-old has chronicled this time in his life, and what it meant to be one of very few black athletes in a largely segregated world, in his comingof-age memoir, “Walk-On: My Reluctant Journey to Integration.” After college, Gossom — who now lives in Fort Walton Beach with his wife of 15 years, City Councilperson Joyce Gillie Gossom, PhD — played football professionally. He bounced around to a couple of teams but never really found a playing spot. It was then he transitioned from “Thomas,” the name he is called by
those who have known him longest, to his on-air name, “Thom.” He took a job at a Birmingham TV station as a newscaster and shortened his name. He soon moved on to public relations work for BellSouth and earned his master’s degree in communications from the University of Montevallo. In 1987, the young professional founded his own company, Thom Gossom Communications, retaining BellSouth as a client among others. Gossom broke into the film business when a producer of “Rebel Love” saw him do a presentation and then had a part written into the film for him — the educated manservant and, yes, a good guy. “I always say there were two good things about that part,” Gossom says. “Number one: I kept all my clothes on. And number two: It got me my SAG [Screen Actors Guild] card.” In the ensuing years, that SAG card saw a lot of use. From 1988 to 1994, he played Ted Marcus on “In the Heat of the Night,” acting alongside the much-lauded Carroll O’Connor. The series was filmed in Georgia, which allowed Gossom to commute from his Birmingham home. The next big part he landed was in 1996 in “Ms. Evers’ Boys,” one of the first major films made for HBO and in which he played a lead. “It was a great part and got me lots of acclaim,” Gossom says. “My wife and I went to the premiere
in Hollywood. After the premiere, I was approached by an agent. We met with him, and he asked if I was interested in working out of the L.A. market.” “Ms. Evers’ Boys” had been filmed in Atlanta, but with his agreement to work out of L.A., Gossom’s commute stretched to four-hour plane flights. “Our son, Dixson, was in high school, so we didn’t want to move,” he says. Until about a year-and-ahalf ago, the family kept a condo in Santa Monica, making their family time bi-coastal. Gossom went on to play the title role of Israel in the Emmy-award winning episode of “NYPD Blue” titled “Lost Israel.” That episode was his personal favorite. “Israel was a homeless mute accused of molesting and killing a little boy,” Gossom says. “The challenge was to make this guy an empathetic character without him saying a word. That part got me a lot of work in L.A.” The actor has also been featured in small screen hits such as “The West Wing,” “Touched by an Angel,” “ER,” “Chicago Hope,” “Cold Case,” “Jack and Bobby” and in a recurring role as a judge on “Boston Legal.” Feature films to his credit include “Fight Club,” “Jeepers Creepers 2” and “XXX 2.” For such a busy guy, a one-man play seems almost a natural. Set in 1999, Gossom’s “Speak of Me as I Am” chronicles three Saturdays at a Birmingham barbershop. The
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personality actor plays all nine parts, men who are regulars at the shop, which becomes their home-away-from-home. The play has been performed in Pensacola and other cities in the Southeast. “I would love to do it in the Fort Walton Beach area,” he says. Locally, Gossom is an alumni of Seaside’s Escape to Create program, during which he worked on a collection of stories and gave readings in the New Urban resort town’s theater. Meanwhile, he and his wife joined their separate public relations firms and made the move to Fort Walton Beach where she also joined the University of West Florida. Today, their company has evolved into a broader ranged communications firm, an umbrella under which Gossom is involved in everything from writing to giving motivational speeches to entertainment projects, including working with their son, Dixson, a hip hop artist. “It all works together: it’s all communications to me,” Gossom says. “I can enjoy any project, from writing to acting.” The role of husband and father came relatively late in life to Gossom, who married in his mid-40s. “As a gentleman once told me, ‘You took the scenic As a gentleman route to life,’” he says. “Frankly, once told me, with all this coming and going, I ‘You took the probably would not have been as good at it or persevered without scenic route to a good home base — them being life.’ Frankly, in my corner and backing me. And me backing them as well.” with all this What about the stress and coming and possible rejection that come going, I probably with auditions, performing and being in the public eye? “I have would not have what I call The Next Day Rule,” been as good at Gossom says. “If I don’t get what it or persevered I am trying for, I let myself be disappointed. But then the next without a good morning when the sun comes up, home base — I put it behind me and go on.” From his position in the them being in center of today’s media and my corner and entertainment business, backing me. Gossom recognizes the industry is rapidly changing. He was And me backing recently contacted on Facebook them as well.” to read for a six-episode series — Thomas “Thom” and is planning this fall to shoot Gossom Jr. a webisode series, currently titled “Call of Duty,” in North Carolina. Big studios no longer have the lock on the business they once did, he believes. “I think young people today watch films on their phones, on the Web,” he says. Gossom maintains close ties to Auburn, as a participant in its Ambassador Program, and is a spokesperson for Better Basics, a reading intervention program for middle school students. He frequently gives motivational speeches and continues his consulting work. Previews of work Gossom has coming soon include a script for a fund-raising gala film and a documentary he is shooting on James Owen, the first African American athlete at Auburn. He is working on a second edition of “Walk-On,” which is planned as an e-book. The day after our interview, the actor was reading for a part in a new TV series. Stay tuned to see if Gossom gets his shot at playing the bad guy. ec
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giving back
(from left to right) Christina Jeffries, Emerald Coast Junior League president Christie Owens, Adriana Roper, Lisa Cotton, Katie Crowell and Debbie Hollis at the Emerald Coast Children’s Advocacy Center in Niceville during the Back to the Books Bash, one of the League’s annual community outreach projects that provides school supplies to at-risk kids in need.
A League of Their Own That Benefits All From Children in Need to Cultural Affairs, This Community Organization has Made an Indelible Impact on the Emerald Coast By Tracy Louthain
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s the Junior League of the Emerald Coast (JLEC) nears its 50th anniversary in 2015, its passionate members are firmly focused on their mission. With nearly 300 active members, the non-profit organization is committed to achieving its mission of promoting voluntarism, developing the potential of women and improving the community. Since the organization’s inception, the JLEC has helped dozens of organizations and positively impacted thousands of lives throughout Northwest Florida. League members have volunteered in areas ranging from children in need and historic preservation to environmental concerns and cultural affairs. Founded as a non-profit corporation in February 1965 by Barbara Smith, the JLEC hit its stride in the ’80s with a spike in membership and new projects. In 1989, the members proudly opened the F.O.C.U.S. Center, which was renamed the Emerald Coast Science Center in 2001. Another program that was birthed in the ’80s was the “Child Clothing” project. Each
Photo by Howard Robinson
year, JLEC partners with the Okaloosa and Walton County school districts to clothe under-privileged children. More than 300 elementary school students are taken to Target, and each child shops for $100 in new clothes, including a new pair of shoes, socks, underwear, shirts and pants. “The child clothing project is incredible,” shared JLEC member and 2013 Best of the Emerald Coast Chair Angela Mason. “Many of these children have never owned new clothes. We’ve had children ask if they can keep the shoebox because they’ve never had one. It is such a moving experience.” The JLEC’s “Done in a Day” program provides a platform for its members to hold food and supply drives, build homes with Habitat for Humanity and volunteer countless hours with non-profit organizations, including Children In Crisis, The Shelter House and The Emerald Coast Children’s Advocacy Center, among many others. “The Junior League has made a significant impact for the kids, our partners and the staff of CAC,” said Julie Hurst, CEO
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giving back of the Children’s Advocacy Center. “This year, the Junior League is taking over the coordination of our backpack drive and backto-school bash. They’re making a real difference for the kids.” Developing and empowering women to become civic leaders is another important focus for the JLEC, which is part of the global network of 293 Junior Leagues throughout the U.S., Canada, Mexico and the United Kingdom. “I’ve come to learn first-hand the impact the Junior League has in developing women to be civic leaders,” said JLEC President Christie Owens. “As a CPA, I am shy and always hated public speaking. Through my involvement, I’ve lost my fear of public speaking. I can truly say the Junior League has changed my life, my outlook and my perspective.” One of Owens’ top goals for the year is to help develop and empower members. By featuring speakers at monthly meetings and devoting more resources to training, Owens encourages every member to have a voice. In order for the JLEC to make such a strong impact, it takes financial resources. One of the best known fundraising programs is the Junior League cookbook “Beach Appetit,” which is filled with 200 recipes from popular local restaurants. Other fundraisers range from the Spring Market and Rock the Road 5K Run to the sale of gift wrap and EC Magazine’s Best of the Emerald Coast event. “We are honored to be the beneficiary charity for Best of the Emerald Coast,” said Mason. “Our members handle a lot of the back-end work, and all the (ticket) proceeds benefit our mission.” The 2013 Best of the Emerald Coast event will be held Oct. 19 at Grand Boulevard at Sandestin. The Saturday evening celebration features readers’ top picks, and attendees are rewarded with samples, coupons and goodies from the area’s top-ranked businesses. “The best part is knowing that for every ticket purchased, the proceeds benefit the Junior League’s mission and are reinvested in our local community,” said Mason. For women interested in joining JLEC, the next social will be held in January 2014. Women who want to simply support the mission can sign up as a JLEC volunteer or make a donation. To learn more visit jlec.org. ec
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what’s haute aising funds and R awareness for breast cancer has never been more fashion forward. Here are just a few of the creative offers from generous business owners hoping to keep our health “in the pink.”
A Sure Cure Collection
Be pretty in pink at the beach in this scoop neck shirt ($26.95), which is part of the 30A Pink Collection, and help a great cause. All proceeds from purchases of items in the Pink Collection during the month of October will be donated to Susan G. Komen for the Cure. Other items in the 30A Pink Collection include a pink-trimmed canvas tote, $29.95, embroidered visor, $21.95, and beach sand spike cup holder, $5.95. Purchase items online at 30AGear.com and at select retailers along 30A.
Kiss Cancer Goodbye
Hats off to Deb and Jerry Johnson, owners of Apricot Lane in Destin Commons, for donating a portion of October sales to local breast cancer charities. These adjustable jeweled “Believe” and “The Girls” caps come in both black and baby pink. $26. Pucker up and kiss cancer goodbye with The Lipp Scrub in clean, fresh grapefruit with the sweetest hints of sugar. 1 oz. $24.
Man Up!
Under Armour celebrates those who use fitness and exercise in their fight against breast cancer. Their Power in Pink campaign, which is projected to raise $500,000 for the cause, invites survivors to post their stories online at underarmour.com. Get your guy to man up to breast cancer in a “Real Men” T-shirt, $19.99 at Silver Sands Premium Outlets.
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‘tis the season for
PARTY
Shop and Save … a Life
photos by Scott Holstein (tote, cap); My Vacation Haven (Condo); NIKE COMMUNICATIONS, INC. (under Armour T-shirt); Zandra Wolfgram (pink hair); Apricot Lane in Destin Commons (lipp scrub), brighton.com (bracelet), 30A.com (30A T-shirt)
The Pink Event runs during the month of October. Shoppers who donate $10 or more to benefit Susan G. Komen for the Cure at the on-site Information Center at Silver Sands Premium Outlets receive a special coupon book that features 25 percent off a single item coupons from selected stores.
PLANNING
Stay the Cure
When you book a stay in My Vacation Haven’s specially designated “pink condos” during the month of October, $50 per reservation will be donated to the Sacred Heart Foundation to provide breast cancer screenings for those in need. Call (800) 553-0188 and mention the Pink Vacation Promotion.
Have a Heart
When you purchase a limited edition Power of Pink 2013 bracelet at Brighton in Destin Commons, part of the proceeds benefits Sacred Heart Hospital on the Emerald Coast’s Suzy Fund, which provides free screening and diagnostic mammograms for underserved women in our community. $50
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From Pizza to the Pentagon Chris Sehman Honored by Secretary of the U.S. Air Force By Martha J. LaGuardia-Kotite
Chris Sehman, and his daughters, continue Helen Back’s 10-year tradition of serving up gratis hand-tossed pizza pie to grateful local members of the military at their original location on Okaloosa Island.
Photos by Scott Holstein
S
unburned, with $20 in his pocket and nearly all his possessions in a shared car, 21-year-old Chris Sehman decided to open his first bar while sitting on the beach behind the Back Porch in Destin. Two years later, in May of 1993, he opened Woody’s Local Safe Sex Bar across the street. “This began a seven year run of not making any money but learning a lot. It was my graduate studies,” said Sehman, who grew up on the Eastern Shore of Maryland and graduated from Old Dominion College. “I was crazy in debt. My car had been repo’d. I was just miserable. It was just tough times.” Determined to support his family, he closed Woody’s in 2000, having brokered a deal to use his liquor license in a pub on Okaloosa Island. He mopped the floors in the morning and kept the drinks flowing until 2 a.m. the next day. Exhausted after 18 days of effort, he sat in his car-office reflecting. “I called my wife and said, ‘I feel like I’ve been to hell and back,’” recounted Sehman. On the radio he heard Lance Armstrong talk about his recent win and how he felt surviving cancer. “Lance said, ‘I feel like I’ve been to hell and back, and I’m going to be okay.’ That was my light bulb moment.” On Dec. 1, 2000, when his beer distributor called, he answered the phone, “Helen Back.” In January of 2013, the Secretary of the Air Force presented Sehman with the Zachary and Elizabeth Fisher 2012 Distinguished Civilian Humanitarian Award during a ceremony at the Pentagon. The easy-going entrepreneur recently talked to EC about his life, work and his appreciation of those who serve.
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Another Broken Egg of America, Inc. moves corporate office to Grand Boulevard at Sandestin® Pictured ( left to right): Ron Green – Founder/President; Nick Binnings – VP of Brand Development; Merlin Allan – VP of Real Estate, Howard Group; Dana Hahn – Leasing Manager, Howard Group
“Another Broken Egg of America, Inc. is excited to have our corporate headquarters located in Grand Boulevard. We strive to produce a superior product in our cafes and you can see that Howard Group takes the same approach in developing real estate.” —Nick Binnings, VP of Brand Development, Another Broken Egg
The central location of Grand Boulevard’s Town Center at the entrance of Sandestin Golf & Beach Resort provides a vibrant and creative work environment, strikingly beautiful public spaces and state-of-the-art business amenities. With convenient access to fine restaurants, national retailers, exclusive boutiques, professional services, two Marriott hotels and a Publix Food & Pharmacy, Grand Boulevard is a complete destination in itself.
We invite you to contact us to assist you with your office lease. Merlin Allan, Vice President of Real Estate 1-850-837-1886 or officeleasing@grandboulevard.com
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chat
After 22 years of being to “hell and back” in the bar business, Chris Sehman’s hard work and generous heart has made him a national humanitarian hero.
EC: Your business has come a long way in 13 years. Give us the run down. CS: My debts were paid off within nine months of opening Helen Back. I own the Okaloosa Island and Crestview Helen Back Café locations and franchised the locations in Navarre, Pensacola and the newest at the Northwest Florida Regional Airport. I also operate Stinky’s Fish Camp in Navarre. EC: How did your famed free military pizza night begin? CS: Other than my uncle, who was at the time a captain in the 33rd Fighter Wing, I had zero military knowledge. I got to know these two loadmasters for C-130 planes who were regulars at my bar. They started bringing in their friends and families. In 2003, we start going into Afghanistan. I thought what can I do to say, ‘Hey, I appreciate what you guys are doing.’ I decided I’m going to give free pizzas to the military on Monday nights. The military pizza night was born and it literally blew up. EC: You really connect to our military community. Tell us about that. CS: I had the honor of being the honorary commander of Hurlburt’s 1st SOW [Special Operations Wing]. It’s not just about seeing cool planes, jets and guns and all that. It’s really about getting to know the young lieutenants that are coming in, the lieutenant colonels that are about to take command of the squadron. I also got assigned to the 36th Electronics Warfare Squadron at Eglin. I have an appreciation for the people that serve in our military and for first responders. Not just what they do for our country and community, but what it means for their families. The dedication. The professionalism. EC: How did it feel to receive such a distinguished award? CS: The ceremony was spectacular … generals walking up, shaking my hand and thanking me. At the end of the day, I’m just giving away pizza and trying to make people happy. It was unexpected. EC: What’s the secret to your popular pizzas? CS: A buddy of mine, Jon Seeling, who used to own Fat Daddy’s Pizza in Walton County, gave me the recipe and showed me how he made his sauce. I combined it with how I like my sauce. I use a very good dough product and the best cheese you can buy. I kept it simple, fresh and affordable. ec EmeraldCoastMagazine.com October–November 2013
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Destin • Fort Walton Beach • Crestview
scene Here is a little of what we’ve seen and heard around town. NEW NEWS … ▪ Harbor Docks in Destin hosted its largest Cobia World Championships tournament to date with 87 boats entered in the event. With over $66,000 paid out to 14 different boats, the Cobia World Championships combined with the Crab Cruncher Classic raised more than $20,000 for Take-A-Kid Fishing Day.
Four Diamond-rated restaurant, located in Northwest Florida’s Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa. Triplett will oversee the day-to-day operations Triplett of the 200-seat fine-dining restaurant, which recently underwent a $1 million renovation.
Poster Art by Mackenzie Shinnick courtesy of Okaloosa Arts Alliance, photos courtesy Louis Dubin (Sinfonia), Tim Allen (VAnnoy), Lori Eckert courtesy of Seagar’s Prime Steaks & Seafood (Triplett) and Kay Phelan courtesy of Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa (cherry)
▪ HarborWalk Village welcomes Fish Heads Bar LLC and The Fudgery Stores Inc., scheduled for a spring 2014 opening. ▪ Billy Reid is now open at Silver Sands Premium Outlets. The store carries classic Southern-style apparel, bags and footwear with unusual accents in high quality fabrics with merchandise up to 60 percent off regular retail prices. William “Billy” Reid grew up in Amite, La., where his mother operated a women’s clothing boutique out of a home that was once his grandmother’s. The shop would later influence his interest and pursuits in design. Today, Reid’s designs can be found in retail shops all around the world. ▪ The Board of Trustees of The St. Joe Community Foundation announced a grant of $10,000 to Sinfonia Gulf Coast in recognition and support of the nonprofit symphony orchestra’s performance and education programs for the upcoming 2013–2014 season.
Cherry
▪ Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa has announced the appointment of Jackson Cherry as the resort’s new manager of hotel operations.
KUDOS AND CONGRATULATIONS … ▪ The Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park has been awarded recognition for a higher standard of care for its marine mammal residents. General Manager Patrick Berry received the acknowledgment from the Alliance of Marine Mammal Parks & Aquariums (AMMPA), an international association representing marine life parks, aquariums and zoos dedicated to the highest
standards of care for marine mammals and to their conservation in the wild through public education, scientific study and wildlife presentations. ▪ Hospitals operated by Sacred Heart Health System in Pensacola, Miramar Beach and Port St. Joe have been honored with PRC Excellence in Healthcare Awards for 2013. These awards are based on information gathered through confidential surveys of patients regarding their perception of the care they received at Sacred Heart. ▪ Senior Master Sgt. Jamie Jordan, a deployed maintenance superintendent with the 33rd Fighter Wing, was awarded the Bronze Star Medal. Jordan supported Operation Enduring Freedom and Combined Joint Task Force Horn of Africa by guiding 1,400 maintenance personnel at three operating locations in support of flying operations for almost 100 aircraft conducting 8,000 combat missions. Hand selected, Jordan was responsible for a variety of different airframes comprising a composition wing during an almost yearlong span. While the Bronze Star is set aside for a select few, it is even a smaller pool of people from the maintenance career field who are distinguished with such an honor. ec
Maestro Demetrius Fuller (second from left) accepts check from St. Joe Foundation board members.
NEW FACES … ▪ Ashley Vannoy has joined SunTrust Bank as vice president and commercial relationship manager for the Pensacola and surrounding markets.
Vannoy
▪ Seagar’s Prime Steaks and Seafood executives recently appointed Tia Triplett as general manager of the AAA
Congratulations to Mackenzie Shinnick, a graduating 8th grader at Liza Jackson Preparatory School, who earned first place in the high school category of the 5th annual Okaloosa Arts Alliance’s Okaloosa County “Summer Fun” School Poster Contest.
EmeraldCoastMagazine.com October–November 2013
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In addition to a beautiful scenic wedding cruise, the gourmet menu expertly prepared onboard by the ship’s talented chef, adds to the memorable experience. Presenting rich mahogany interior features, a full-service bar, sky deck, private bridal suite, sweeping views and friendly staff, a wedding experience aboard the SOLARIS is the ultimate experience for the bride and groom, as well as their family and guests. SunQuest Cruises is flexible with most budgets and welcomes rehearsal dinners, wedding ceremonies and receptions for up to 150 guests. SunQuest Cruises offers public dinner dance cruises year round and is available by reservation to host special events, weddings, private parties, receptions and corporate events. For further information, visit www.SunQuestCruises. com, their Facebook page at www.facebook.com/sunquestcruisessolaris, or call (850) 650-2519.
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The ‘Blue’ Piano Man
Photo Courtesy George Rodrigue Foundation of the Arts
What do you get when you combine a 100-year-old Steinway piano and a master painter? Artist George Rodrigue, famous for his series of “blue dog” paintings, partnered with the Hall Piano Company of New Orleans to create The Rodrigue Steinway “Blue Dog Piano.” On Nov. 7 at 6:30 p.m. the Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation (MKAF) will present an unusual evening of art and music with “A Tribute to George Rodrigue” in the Emerald Ballroom at the Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa. The evening will include a gourmet wine dinner prepared by Chef John Carey, a live auction, wine pull and a live concert featuring the talents of five pianists: Sean Dietrich, John Ripley, David Seering, Donnie Sundal and Bobby Van Duesen performing everything from Broadway, jazz and pop/funk to ragtime and rock ‘n’ roll on the refurbished 1913 Steinway. Tickets to this exclusive event are $135 for MKAF members and $150 for non-members. Proceeds will jointly benefit the Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation and the George Rodrigue Foundation for the Arts. For more details on this event, call (850) 650-2226 or visit mattiekellyartsfoundation.org. — Zandra Wolfgram
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By Thomas J. Monigan // Photos by Scott Holstein
Coyote Ugly Packs Them in at HarborWalk Village
Nightlife Fun?
Hunting for New
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b
orn in Brooklyn and raised just outside Atlanby me and my partners, who live here in Destin. Our sucta, Joanna Olsen heard the message early and cess will depend on keeping the Coyote experience alive, often: “You can be anything you want to be.” and we’re very focused on catering to local customers.” Now a 30-something successful business Forty young women auditioned to become Coyotes at owner, Olsen is passing that belief along to a a special outdoor HarborWalk Village event attended by rising generation of young women who work about 1,000 boisterous people. The 40 females showed for her at Coyote Ugly Saloons. off their dancing skills and answered questions designed Newest among these is the Destin location, which to measure professional experience and just how feisty opened just in time for Spring Break earlier this year. Oltheir personalities might be. sen has owned a Coyote Ugly in Tampa for 10 years and anTwenty-five made the first cut, and that number was other in Panama City Beach for the past nine. pared down to 18. “Everything came together,” was how “They’re in charge of the bar, and they Olsen capsulized four months and about have fun interacting with the customers,” Ol$500,000 worth of intense transformation sen said. “The girls are in control. As we like involving a two-story former restaurant locato say, ‘Tonight we’re calling the shots.’” They’re in tion on the eastern end of HarborWalk VilFree shots are part of the reward for female charge of lage, just off the Marler Bridge that spans the patrons brave enough to dance freestyle on the the bar and East Pass in Destin. bar along with Coyotes. Bourbon and Coke they have Billy Caine and Todd Leverette are Olsen’s was reported as the favorite cocktail of male fun interactbusiness partners, with Caine acting as the patrons, who also take advantage of specials on ing with the on-site manager. The trio operates under a lilongneck beer. When ladies order, they often customers. cense granted by Lil Lovell, who opened the ask for “Sex on the Beach.” The girls are first Coyote Ugly in New York City in 1993. Coyotes come from different backgrounds, in control. Lovell’s concept gained national attention with and each tackles her nightly role with energy As we like to the 2000 release of the movie “Coyote Ugly.” and personality. say, ‘Tonight More than a dozen years later, many peoCandace Winston-Grays, 26, came to the we’re calling ple still say “just like the movie” when makarea because her husband, Francisco Grays, the shots.’ ing reference to the saloon. is stationed just outside Crestview with the — Owner Joanna Olsen “It’s a good fit because having such a wellArmy’s 7th Special Forces. known establishment such as Coyote Ugly “We work together as a team,” she said. adds additional fun, friendly, nightlife en“Everybody takes on a piece of everything. tertainment to HarborWalk,” said John Hall, It’s more than what I expected, because the general manager of the venue belonging to people who run it take a personal interest in Legendary Realty Inc. “They have a great reputation for you. I’m a family person, so I really like to go to a place exciting, interactive, boot-stompin’ fun.” where it’s a family, not just a job. Coming to work here And even though the brand has gone international, makes me smile.” Olsen wants to emphasize her local connections. “Coyote Danza Locke, 22, commutes from Gulf Shores, Ala., Ugly is the most famous bar on the planet, but I think to work in Destin, a drive that can take two hours during people have the idea that we’re a franchise or chain and tourist season. But Locke insists it’s “worth it.” that’s not correct,” she said of her new location. “It’s owned “Being an entertainer is fun, and the job is a lot better than what I expected,” she said. “I’ve been teaching dance at a local studio, and I didn’t know what I was getting into at first, but I actually want to come to work every day. I’ve made good friends here.” Mae McDonnell, 26, is a graduate of Bruner Middle School and Fort Walton Beach High School. “I’ve been dancing ever since I could walk,” McDonnell said. “The whole atmosphere here allows for people to let loose and let their wild side show. But I totally feel safe. We have rules, we have security and customers understand that. I’ve never had any issues.” Since Coyote Ugly’s hours are 4 p.m. to 4 a.m. daily, shifts can run long and the Coyotes are in constant motion. “This place isn’t about being half-assed,” McDonald said. “We’re all on fire 100 percent of the time. “It’s long hours and it’s physically challenging, but I’ve given up my YMCA membership, because this job keeps me in such good shape.” Owners Todd Leverette, Joanna Olsen and Billy Caine
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If you participate ...
Free shots are part of the reward for female patrons brave enough to dance freestyle on the bar along with Coyotes.
Olivia and Desiree beat out dozens of hopefuls to become two of 18 “Coyotes” — hot bartenders who keep a beat while pouring a great drink and look good while doing it; Coyote Ugly is famous for it’s beautiful bar, but most of the time patrons are not referring to the fully-stocked, top-shelf brands.
Bourbon and coke was reported as the favorite cocktail of male patrons, who also take advantage of specials on longneck beer. When ladies order, they often ask for “Sex on the Beach.”
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See video at emeraldcoastmagazine.com Music in the saloon gets cranked up somewhere past “loud,” and the whole place can feel the bass line reverberate. Around midnight on a recent evening, after four Coyotes performed to “The Devil Went Down to Georgia” by Charlie Daniels, the main bar top took on an additional six to eight dancing female customers with everyone working her best shimmy to “Save A Horse (Ride A Cowboy)” by Big & Rich. Cathy Forgue was among those showing off her moves as many in the crowd sang along in full voice with “Save A Horse’s” catchy refrain. “It’s fun, they get the customers involved and they know what works — good music and fast service,” said Forgue, 39, a U.S. Air Force master sergeant. “I’ve been here before, and I’m meeting some friends here tonight. Especially if you’ve never been, you’ve just got to go to Coyote Ugly. You just have to.” J.W. Hyde, 48, from Atlanta, was sporting a spiffy black straw cowboy hat. He was part of a group of men enjoying an annual global reunion. “I’ve been here 35 or 40 minutes, and it’s climbing the charts,” Hyde said. “There’s a lot of good energy, a lot of attractive women and people seem to be having a good time.” Onie Tomlin, 32, from Gurley, Ala.,
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When you “belly up to the bar” at Coyote Ugly, you’ll likely find Olivia, Danza, Candis and Mae doing toe-tapping line dance on top of it; With a sexy, rustic vibe, there’s a reason “Save a Horse, Ride a Cowboy” is a crowd pleaser.
just could not stay atop one of the spinning mechanical bulls out back for more than a few seconds. “It looked like fun,” she offered with an undaunted smile. And was it? “Hell, yeah!” was the cheerful reply. “I’ve always wanted to come here. It’s awesome.” In addition to the “dueling bulls,” Coyote Ugly has a DJ out back on weekends and offers a “Coyote Food Truck” seven days a week. Mark Jackson, 28, an Air Force Airman First Class, was the first successful brassiere flinger among five young men who made attempts at landing a Coyote bra on an overhead chandelier made from a replica of a wagon wheel. “This is my first time here,” Jackson said. “I’ve been to the one in Vegas, and this one’s way better. The girls are better looking, and there’s a better atmosphere. It’s more active.” And while patrons are encouraged to loosen up from the time they walk in the door, no one seemed eager to push things too far. “It’s always interesting,” Caine said. “There’s a bit of excitement in the air when the crowd gets going. And if you’re helping somebody have a great night, that means something.” ec
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Come celebrate your winners!
The 2013 Best of the Emerald Coast Event
October 19th l 6–9:30pm Grand Boulevard at Sandestin® Brought to you by EC
Magazine to benefit the Junior League of the Emerald Coast.
The 2013 winners will be on display at Grand Boulevard. The public is invited to an evening of food, fun, fashion and entertainment. Join us at our 13th annual event as we sample from the best restaurants, shopping and businesses on the Emerald Coast.
Tickets on sale at EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM $30 in advance ($40 day of event) presenting sponsor
HOWARD GROUP | SIMON
®
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Compiled by Laura Bradley For more events in the EC, visit emeraldcoastmagazine.com.
october + november
Weekdays through Nov. 25
Thanksgiving Food Drive Donate gift cards, frozen hams/turkeys (accepted on Nov. 25 only), boxed mashed potatoes, gravy, stuffing mix, cream soups for casseroles, crispy fried onions, cranberries, rolls, condensed milk, pumpkin puree and pie crusts. Drop off your donation at the Shelter House office, 102 Buck Dr., Fort Walton Beach. Weekdays 8 a.m.–5 p.m. (850) 243-1201, shelterhousenwfl.org
Wednesdays through Oct. 30
Wednesday Night Concert Series Tantalize your musical taste buds with a range of musical entertainment. FREE. The Village of Baytowne Wharf at Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort, 9300 Emerald Coast Pkwy. West, Miramar Beach. 6–8 p.m. (866) 912-3224, baytownewharf.com
Third Friday throughout the year Downtown Art Walk Stroll Fort Walton Beach’s historic district and visit with merchants from participating shops and restaurants while enjoying art demonstrations, live music, complimentary refreshments and special discounts. FREE. Downtown Fort Walton Beach. 5:30–8:30 p.m. For more information, contact Jennifer Bundrick at downtownfwbartwalk@gmail.com.
Through Oct. 11
14th Annual Photography and Digital Arts Show at ADSO Don’t miss this show of outstanding photography and digital arts by ADSO members and other photographers in the area. FREE. Art Center, 17 First St. S.E., Fort Walton Beach. Tue–Fri, noon–4 p.m.; Sat, 1–4 p.m. (850) 244-1271, artsdesignsociety.org
Oct. 1–6
Pensacola Beach Songwriters Festival Original songs flow across Santa Rosa Island in this week-long music event, introducing music lovers to the songs that made you happy, sad, romantic and all other feelings that take place and touch your daily lives. Cover prices vary. View locations and full schedule online. (850) 341-0889, pensacolabeachsongwritersfestival.com
Photo BY Shelly Swanger
Oct. 1–31
Destin Fishing Rodeo Wrangle in those catches to put on the leader board in front of AJ’s, and vie for more than $100,000 in cash and prizes. Open to private and charter boats. FREE to all anglers who fish aboard a boat registered in the rodeo; $25 for pier anglers. 103 Stahlman Ave., Destin. Daily weigh-ins from 10 a.m.–7 p.m. (850) 837-6734, destinfishingrodeo.org
Oct. 2–6
Emerald Coast Volleyball Fall Classic Men, women and seniors will gather together once again for head-to-head volleyball games, great food and great entertainment throughout this five-day extravaganza on the beach. $70 and
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30A 10K & 1 Mile Fun Run
Nov. 28 This Thanksgiving gather the family, and make a run for it! The Thanksgiving Day 30A Road Race returns to Rosemary Beach for its second year. Registration is $60 for the 10K and $30 for the 1 mile fun run. Event proceeds benefit local non-profit groups Donations 4 Danny, Lighthouse Family Retreat and Food For Thought. Pick up packets on Wednesday, Nov. 27, from 1-7 p.m. at The Pearl in Rosemary Beach. 10K starts at 7:30 a.m. and 1 mile begins at 7:35 a.m. Register online at 30A10K.com. Contact Karen Meadows at (850) 325-0561 or info@30A10K.com.
up. The Boardwalk, Fort Walton Beach. All day. (850) 243-2555, emeraldcoastvolleyball.com
October 4–6
35th Annual Destin Seafood Festival Enjoy live music on two stages, art and delicious fresh seafood during this three-day festival. FREE. Harbor Blvd., Destin. Friday, 4–10 p.m.; Sat, 10 a.m.–10 p.m.; Sun, 11 a.m.–4 p.m. (subject to change). (850) 218-0232, destinseafoodfestival.org
Oct. 5
Serve2Cure Tennis Tournament Join in this tournament to benefit Sacred Heart Hospital on the Emerald Coast Breast Cancer Fund. The event will include a tennis tournament, breakfast, fastest serve contest, silent auction, raffles, prizes and a luncheon at Graffiti’s in The Village of Baytowne Wharf. Contact Sandestin Tennis to sign up. $100. Sandestin Tennis Center, 9300 Emerald Coast Pkwy. West, Miramar Beach. 9 a.m.–2 p.m. (850) 267-7060, sandestin.com/tennis
Oct. 5
Habitrot for Humanity Half Marathon and 5K Run through Sandestin to benefit Habitat for
Humanity. $30 for 5K before Oct. 3, $70 for half marathon; on-site/same day registration $35 for 5K, $75 for half marathon. Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort, 9300 Emerald Coast Pkwy. West, Miramar Beach. 6 a.m.–Noon. Register at active.com.
Oct. 5
18th Annual Santa Rosa Island Triathlon A triathlon along Pensacola Beach for seasoned athletes, along with a sea turtle triathlon for kids. Packet pickup is Oct. 4 on Pensacola Beach. Registration information is available online. Start at Casino Beach parking lot. Race starts at 7 a.m.; post-race awards party begins at approximately 10 a.m. (850) 380-0741, santarosaislandtriathlon.com
Oct. 5
Explore the Outdoors Festival This fun-filled day introduces children to the wonders of the outdoors. Enjoy hands-on nature-based activities (including fishing, kayaking, birding and nature-based crafts). The first 180 children interested in learning to fish will receive a free rod/reel combo from Fish Florida! $1. Live Oak Landing Outdoor
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thecalendar Destination, 229 Pitts Ave., Freeport. 10 a.m.– 2 p.m. (850) 267-2064, waltonoutdoors.com
Oct. 5–6
4th Annual Oktoberfest The fourth annual festival will feature authentic German music and food, beer sampling and a root beer garden for the kids. Come in your Oktoberfest gear for a special prize. FREE before 6 p.m.; $5, 21 and over; $15, 18–20. Flora-bama Lounge, 17401 Perdido Key Dr., Pensacola. Starts at Noon each day. (850) 492-4660, angela@florabama.com
Oct. 7–12
30th Northwest Florida Tri-County Fair Fine Arts Show In this annual art show, sponsored by the Arts and Design Society and the Northwest Florida Fair Board, artwork in every medium will be on display; high school and middle school art will be a special feature. FREE. C.H. Bull Rigdon Fairgrounds and Recreation Complex, 1958 Lewis Turner Blvd., Fort Walton Beach. Opening reception, Sunday, Oct. 6, 2 p.m.–4 p.m. Art show hours: Mon–Fri, 5–10 p.m.; Sat, noon–6 pm. (850) 582-1329, artsdesignsociety.org
Oct. 9, Nov. 13
Wealth and Wisdom Series With guest speakers ranging from estate planning attorneys and CPAs to physicians and local historians, these interactive social meetings begin at 8:30 a.m. on the second Wednesday of each
month at Vue on 30A. FREE. Vue on 30A, 4801 W. County Hwy. 30A, Santa Rosa Beach. 8:30–9:30 a.m. (850) 650-0990, santarosaclub.com
Oct. 10
An Evening with Morgan James Straight from the Broadway smash hit “Motown the Musical,” singer Morgan James will help start Sinfonia Gulf Coast’s eighth season in style. Enjoy a five-course gourmet meal, complete with wine, and the feature performance in an intimate setting. $150, Seagar’s Prime Steaks & Seafood. 5:30 p.m. (850) 269-7129, Sinfoniagulfcoast.org
Oct. 11–13
South Walton Fashion Week This first time event brings premier fashion to the beach. Held in Grand Boulevard, it is the perfect location for the fashion enthusiast. Friday $50 in advance, $65 at door; Saturday $50 in advance, $65 at door; Sunday $20 in advance, $25 at door (limited number of tickets available); students enter for FREE. Grand Boulevard at Sandestin, 185 Grand Blvd. Suite 100, Destin. Full schedule online. (850) 622-5970, swfw.org
Oct. 12
Dog Daze Bring Spot and Princess to this all-day celebration of dogs and the families who love them. Vendors, dog activities and a Bowser Bazaar are sure to entertain. $3 suggested donation (benefits dog welfare organizations). Liza Jackson Park, 318 Miracle
Strip Pkwy. SW, Fort Walton Beach. 9 a.m.–3 p.m. (850) 244-8191, fbwchamber.com
Oct. 12
‘This is the ’60s’ Experience the generation that altered everything from hairstyles to human rights with this touring, live concert experience featuring vocalists performing the timeless music of the 1960s. $35. $50 combo ticket includes a 50th Anniversary Gala reception prior to the show and VIP seating. Mattie Kelly Arts Center, 100 College Blvd., Niceville. 7:30 p.m. (850) 729-6000, mattiekellyartscenter.org
Oct. 13
6th Annual Art and Wine Festival With a stroke of a brush and a pop of a cork, Pensacola Beach will transform into an artists’ village. This event will showcase more than 40 artists, art demonstrations and wines from across the globe. The wine tasting will be from noon to 2 p.m. FREE; wine tasting band $15. Portofino Boardwalk. 11 a.m.–4 p.m. (850) 932-1500, pensacolabeachchamber.com
Oct. 13–15
Kevin Tobin Acrylics Workshops Golden Paints Artist Kevin Tobin will offer a free demonstration and three workshops. Golden paints and mediums will be provided, along with prizes. Two-part workshop $100 for members, $115 for nonmembers; half-day workshops
Tallahassee Museum’s
EXPERIENCE TALLAHASSEE 50 FEET OFF THE GROUND!
See nature from a fresh perspective! Zip through the treetops, soar through the cypress swamp and conquer aerial games and obstacles on the Tallahassee Tree to Tree Adventures courses at the Tallahassee Museum.
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$85 each for members, $95 each for nonmembers. Art Center, 17 First St. S.E., Fort Walton Beach. Workshop schedule available online. (850) 244-1271, artsdesignsociety.org
Oct. 15
‘Mama Mia!’ This romantic comedy tells the tale of a mother and her daughter — three possible dads — and a walk down the aisle you’ll never forget. Hits include “Super Trouper,” “Lay All Your Love On Me,” “Dancing Queen,” “Knowing Me, Knowing You,” “Take A Chance On Me” and more. $49. Mattie Kelly Arts Center, 100 College Blvd., Niceville. 7:30 p.m. (850) 729-6000, mattiekellyartscenter.org
Oct. 15–Nov. 15
Inspired by Miró Art Exhibit Enjoy this art show in which all entries reflect the influence of renowned Spanish artist Joan Miró. The reception will be Friday, Oct. 18 from 6–8 p.m. FREE. Art Center, 17 First St. S.E., Fort Walton Beach. Tue–Fri noon–4 p.m., Sat 1–4 p.m. (850) 244-1271, artsdesignsociety.org
Oct. 17–27
79th Annual Pensacola Interstate Fair Don’t miss this annual tradition. With big-name entertainment, games, rides and exhibits, the fair is fun for the whole family! Check website for price and schedule. 6655 W. Mobile Hwy., Pensacola. (850) 944-4500, pensacolafair.com
Oct. 18
Oct. 18–19, 25–26
Oct. 18, Nov. 15
Oct. 18–20
Gallery Night Jump-start the holiday season with an evening of arts and culture as you explore downtown Pensacola’s art galleries in a street-party atmosphere. Enjoy an eclectic array of music, art and cuisine as galleries and businesses feature dozens of local artists’ work. FREE. Downtown Pensacola. 5–9 p.m. downtownpensacola.com
Boggy Bayou Mullet Festival Named one of the Top Food Festivals in the USA by Parade magazine, this hometown festival celebrates the mullet fish. Enjoy carnival rides, national headline country music acts and more. $10–$15. Mullet Festival Grounds, State Road 85. N. and College Blvd., Niceville. Fri 11 a.m., Sat 9 a.m., Sun 10 a.m. mulletfestival.com
Oct. 18–19
Oct. 19
Beer From Around Here Join Marlin Grill for a Friday night BBQ featuring live music, locally brewed ales and favorites from throughout the Southeast region. All paired with delicious gourmet grilled meats, including buffalo brisket and pulled pork, and side items. $35. Marlin Grill, The Village of Baytowne Wharf, 9300 Emerald Coast Pkwy. West, Miramar Beach. 6–8 p.m. (850) 351-1990, baytownebeerfestival.com
6th Annual Baytowne Wharf Beer Festival Known as the “Best Beer Fest on the Emerald Coast,” this popular festival features 40 on-site craft brewers, over 100 domestic and international beers, seminars and samplings, along with live music. Sample domestic and international options, including specialty, seasonal and not-yet-released beers. $27. The Village of Baytowne Wharf, 9300 Emerald Coast Pkwy. West, Miramar Beach. 2– 6 p.m. (866) 912-3224, baytownebeerfestival.com
Annual Historic Haunted House Walking Tours Follow costumed guides as they lead narrated tours of more than 50 sites in this spooky family favorite activity for Halloween taking place in historic downtown Pensacola. Walking tours $10 adults, $5 children 12 and under; tram tours $16 adults, $8 children 12 and under. Seville Square. 5:30–11:30 p.m. (850) 595-5985, historicpensacola.org
Best of the Emerald Coast 2013 One of the most highly anticipated events of the year, Best of Emerald Coast brings residents together to sample the food, beverage and services of award-winners from EC magazine’s famous annual readers’ poll — all while supporting a great cause, the Junior League of the Emerald Coast. $30 and $40 day of the event. Grand Boulevard at Sandestin. 6–9 p.m. (850) 862-2665, jlec.org
Tree to Tree Adventures A NEW WAY TO EXPLORE THE BEAUTY OF NATURE!
Free Parking | Café | Playground Museum Store | Open 7 days a week
3945 Museum Drive | (850) 575-8684 treetotreeadventures.com | tallahasseemuseum.org
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Savor the Season Nov. 6 Enjoy a chic wine tasting with culinary delights by local celebrity chefs under the stars at the Caliza Pool at Alys Beach. The evening includes a silent auction with proceeds benefitting the Taylor Haugen Foundation, which was created and named to honor the memory of the 15-year-old Niceville High School student who passed away after an injury sustained during a football game on Aug. 30, 2008. The Foundation provides grants, education and funding to athletic teams, schools and districts through its YESS (Youth Equipment for Sports Safety) Program and also recognizes and supports outstanding scholar-athletes with scholarships and awards. The night will kick off at 5:30 p.m. and run until 8:30 p.m., with $50 admission. For more information, visit taylorhaugen.org.
Oct. 19
Rosemary Beach Uncorked Stroll the quaint cobblestone streets and explore the diverse culinary styles of nine Rosemary Beach restaurants. Each location will offer its signature dishes paired with boutique wines for an extra-special taste of the beachside town. $85 in advance, $105 at the door. Rosemary Beach. 2–5 p.m. rosemarybeachuncorked.com.
Oct. 19
Zombie Walk Downtown FWB merchants and Caring and Sharing bring you a Zombie Walk. Dress in your scariest zombie costume, and walk the streets downtown collecting stamps for prizes and giveaways. Bring a canned food for admittance. Downtown Fort Walton Beach. 4 p.m. (850) 244-6666, downtownfwb.com
Oct. 21
Guglielmo’s Golf ParTee Golf for a great cause, and enjoy lunch by Guglielmo’s. Proceeds benefit the expansion of children’s services at Sacred Heart Hospital on the Emerald Coast. Register at sacredheartemerald.org. $125 per player, $500 per team, $750 hole sponsor (including one foursome). Emerald Bay Golf Club, Destin. 11 a.m. player check-in and lunch; 12:30 p.m. shotgun scramble. (850) 278-3700, guglielmosgolfpartee.com
Oct. 23
ADSO Luncheon Join multi-faceted artist Linda Devins, creator of fine art and jewelry designer, as she speaks on making handmade art dolls with flair. $12 before Oct. 21, $15 after. Art Center, 17 First St. S.E., Fort Walton Beach. 11:30 a.m. (850) 244-1271, artsdesignsociety.org
Oct. 23
‘Mama Mia’ Writer Catherine Johnson’s sunny, funny tale unfolds on a Greek island paradise. On the eve of her wedding, a daughter’s quest to discover the identity of her father brings three men from her mother’s past back to the island they last visited 20 years ago. The story-telling magic of ABBA’s timeless songs propels this enchanting tale of love, laughter and friend54 October–November 2013
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+events
Destin Seafood Festival Oct. 4–6 The 35th Annual Destin Seafood Festival celebrates the town’s cultural heritage at a multi-day celebration of food and music along the Destin Harbor. Coinciding with the Destin Fishing Rodeo, festival goers will enjoy an animated event showcasing Destin’s famous fresh local seafood, nonstop live music on several stages and at participating restaurants all along the harbor, arts and crafts exhibits, kids’ zone, a fireworks finale and more. Admission is free, but a $2 donation is appreciated. Proceeds benefit the Destin History & Fishing Museum. Destin Harbor. Fri 4–10 p.m., Sat 10 a.m.–10 p.m., Sun 11 a.m.–4 p.m. (850) 428-7783, destinseafoodfestival.org
ship, and every night everyone’s having the time of their lives. Call for ticket prices. Saenger Theatre, 118 S. Palafox Place, Pensacola. 7:30 p.m. BEST BEACHWEAR RETAILER & LOCALLY OWNED RETAILER
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INDIVIDUAL SOLUTIONS (Mix & Match Separates) Tops AA - G Bottoms 4 - 20 Juniors XS - DD Plus Sizes 16W - 32W 56 October–November 2013
Missy 4 - 20 Plus Sizes to 32W Long Torso & Bra-sized Mastectomy Girls & Pre-Teen
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Oct. 25
Musical Identities Sinfonia Gulf Coast’s season of musical identities starts with the Southeast U.S. premier of Victor Cheng and Michael Shapiro’s “Identity Concerto” featuring world-renowned guzheng player Su Chang. Also on the concert is Rimsky-Korsakoff’s beloved orchestral masterpiece “Scheherazade.” $29.50–$42.50, Destiny Worship Center, 122 Poinciana Blvd., Destin. 7:30 p.m. (850) 269-7129, sinfoniagulfcoast.org
Oct. 25
Rocky Horror Picture Show Relive the classic “Rocky Horror Picture Show” on the HarborWalk Village stage. Props will be provided. Costumes are expected. Doing the Time Warp is mandatory. FREE. 10 Harbor Blvd., Destin. Call for show time. (850) 424-0600, emeraldgrande.com/event.aspx
Oct. 25–26
6th Annual Haunted History Tours Follow costumed actors as they share spooky tales and quirky history of the area. Purchase tickets on tour nights starting at 6 p.m. at the museum entrance where tours will begin. $10 adults, $7 children. 139 Miracle Strip Pkwy., Fort Walton Beach. 6:30 p.m., 7 p.m., 7:30 p.m. and 8 p.m. (850) 833-9595, www.fwb.org
Oct. 26
Pumpkinpalooza Put your costume to the test in our annual Halloween contest. With more categories and better prizes than ever, this is one contest along the Harbor you won’t want to miss! FREE. HarborWalk Village, 10 Harbor Blvd., Destin. (850) 424-0600, emeraldgrande.com/event.aspx
Oct. 26
Vettes at the Village Area Corvette clubs bring “America’s Sports Car” to the Village Events
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FOUR YEARS RUNNING 2010-2013
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www.AlaquaAnimalRefuge.org
Plaza, shined to the max as they zoom onto the Village streets. Be a part of the show by voting on your favorite style and model! FREE. The Village of Baytowne Wharf, 9300 Emerald Coast Pkwy. West, Miramar Beach. 12–5 p.m. (866) 912-3224, sandestin.com/events
Alaqua Animal Refuge Inc. 914 Whitfield Road Freeport, FL 32439
Oct. 26
Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Don a pink bra and raise funds and awareness for breast cancer at this spirited 5K run/walk throughout Destin. Proceeds benefit the American Cancer Society. FREE to walk. Teams that raise $100 receive an official T-shirt. Village Baptist Church, 101 Matthew Blvd., Destin. 8 a.m. registration; 9 a.m. race. (850) 244-3813, ext. 3556, msabcemeraldcoast.com
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October 26–27
18th Annual Festival of the Arts A family-friendly fine arts show featuring more than 100 artists from around the country. Enjoy live music, a bistro-style food court and a Collaborative Art Exhibit. $3 per adult; kids under 12 FREE. Mattie Kelly Cultural Arts Village, 4323 Commons Drive West, Destin. Sat, 9 a.m.–5 p.m.; Sun, 11 a.m.–5 p.m. (850) 650-2226, mattiekellyartsfoundation.org
Oct. 28
‘Beyond Glory’ This spellbinding one-man show, starring Broadway’s Stephen Lang, retells the first-hand accounts of eight war veterans whose valor earned the nation’s highest military award, the Medal of Honor. $35. Mattie Kelly Arts Center, 100 College Blvd., Niceville. 7:30 p.m. (850) 729-6000, mattiekellyartscenter.org
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Oct. 31
Member of American Institute of Architects
Trick or Treat Street at Baytowne Trick or treat through the Village streets and visit merchants as they provide some of your favorite Halloween treats. Dance on the stage as the DJ plays frighteningly good tunes, and end the evening with a spooky fireworks show over the lagoon. FREE. The Village of Baytowne Wharf, 9300 Emerald Coast Pkwy. West, Miramar Beach. 6–8 p.m. (866) 912-3224, sandestin.com/events
GG Bloom
Oct. 31
36236 Emerald Coast Pkwy
Trick-or-Treat off the Street Calling all goblins and ghosts and families with children 13 and under; you’re all invited to stroll the sidewalks at Silver Sands Premium Outlets in costume, collecting goodies from each store. Look for the pumpkin sign in participating store windows. FREE. Silver Sands Premium Outlets, 10562 Emerald Coast Pkwy., Destin. 4–7 p.m. (850) 654-9771, premiumoutlets.com/silversands
Destin, Florida (850) 460-2078 www.ggbloom.com
Oct. 31–Nov. 2
23rd Annual Seeing Red Wine Festival at Seaside Taste, dine and donate at this Taste of the Beach festival event featuring an extensive array of tasting tents with wines from around the world. Proceeds benefit local children’s charities. $35–$185. Seaside. For a detailed schedule and ticket information, visit seeingredwinefestival.com.
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Oct. 31–Nov. 3
Go
South Walton Celebrity Golf Classic Golf enthusiasts will have the chance to hit the links with dozens of sports celebrities, including baseball greats and football legends, at this popular 27th annual golf tournament to benefit Working Warriors. Visit website for location, time, pricing and sponsorship opportunities. For info, call Charlie Haje (850) 259-6334.
Nov. 2013–Jan. 2014
Baytowne on Ice This seasonal ice rink has become a holiday favorite. The first hour of each day is reserved for youths 12 and under. The rink is also available for private functions. $13 includes skate rental and tax. The Village of Baytowne Wharf, 9300 Emerald Coast Pkwy. West, Miramar Beach. All day. (850) 267-8184, sandestin.com/events
Pet Care/Shop
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Caring Hearts & Caring Hands Dr. Kelly Haeusler | Dr. Misha Ratcliff Dr. Victoria Lyon and Staff 900 Airport Road | Destin, FL 32541 837-3227
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thecalendar Nov. 1–2
St. Simon’s Arts & Crafts Fair St. Simon’s on the Sound Episcopal Church hosts its 39th Arts and Crafts Fair. Proceeds benefit local charities such as Shelter House, Sharing and Caring, Children in Crisis, Habitat for Humanity among others. FREE. 28 Miracle Strip Pkwy., SW, Fort Walton Beach. Fri 9 a.m.–5 p.m, Sat 9 a.m.– 1 p.m. Email Ginny Mitchell at glndsld56@cox.com or call (850) 244-0877.
Nov. 1–2
Florida Seafood Festival This is the 50th anniversary of the two-day event that draws thousands of visitors to the historic town of Apalachicola in scenic Franklin County. The festival features a 5K road race, arts and crafts exhibits, seafood related events and contests, musical entertainment and, of course, plenty of seafood. FREE. Battery Park, Apalachicola. Fri 10 a.m.–10:30 p.m., Sat 7 a.m.–11 p.m. (888) 653-8011, floridaseafoodfestival.com
Nov. 1–3
Great Gulfcoast Arts Festival Browse an impressive collection of more than 200 exhibits of fine art and handmade crafts from around the country. There will also be a Children’s Festival from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. FREE. Historic Seville Square, Downtown Pensacola. Fri–Sat 9 a.m.–5 p.m., Sun 9 a.m.–4 p.m. ggaf.org
Nov. 1–3
Taste of the Beach Taste of the Beach is four days filled with imported and domestic wine tastings, wine paired dinners, a charity auction and much more all along the Emerald Coast. $35–$185. Full schedule and admission information online. (850) 267-0683, tasteofthebeachfl.com
Nov. 1–10
Bluewater Bay Pro Circuit Tennis Championships World-class players compete for prize money and coveted ATP points. Features Kids’ Day showcasing a 10 and Under Tennis Clinic, a Pro-Am Tournament and acts as a host site for the USTA’s Adopt-A-Unit Initiative. Fri–Sun (finals) $15 per family, $6 for adults, $4 for children. 777 Bay Dr., Niceville. 9 a.m.–6 p.m. daily. (850) 897-8010, Facebook: Bluewater Bay Tennis Center
Nov. 2
3rd Annual Race for the Arts This 5K run benefits the Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation, featuring an out and back course beginning near the Mattie Kelly Cultural Arts Village entrance. Register at active.com or the Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation website. $25 after Oct. 1; $30 on race day. Mattie Kelly Cultural Arts Village, 4323 Commons Drive West, Destin. 8:30 a.m. (850) 650-2226, mattiekellyartsfoundation.org
Nov. 3
Taste of the Beach Charity Auction This walkabout, on the pool deck overlooking the shores of the Gulf of Mexico, includes a high-end auction featuring rare wines, jewelry, art and more to raise funds for the Destin Charity Wine Auction Foundation. $35. Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa, 4000 Sandestin Blvd. South, Miramar Beach. 2–5 p.m. (850) 267-0683, tasteofthebeachfl.com
Nov. 7
Tribute to George Rodrigue The Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation presents an evening of art and music to honor master painter George Rodrigue. Guests will enjoy a gourmet wine dinner prepared by Chef John Carey, a live auction and a concert featuring local celebrity pianists performing on the refurbished 1913 Steinway. $135–$150, Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa, 6:30– 10 p.m. (850) 650-2226, mattiekellyartsfoundation.org
Nov. 7–17
The Frank Brown International Songwriters Festival Featuring more than 200 songwriters from around the world, including Grammy Award-winning songwriters and up-and-coming stars, this festival has become a favorite along the Gulf Coast. Prices vary across venues. (850) 492-7664, fbisf.com EmeraldCoastMagazine.com October–November 2013
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Blues, Brews & BBQ Local restaurants will fire up the grills for a good time (and cause) at HarborWalk Village. The Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association’s Northwest Florida chapter will host a craft beer tasting and creative BBQ competition. All proceeds benefit FRLA Educational Foundation. FREE. 10 Harbor Blvd., Destin. Noon–4 p.m. (850) 424-0600, frla.org; emeraldgrande.com/event.aspx
Nov. 9–10
Flutterby Arts Festival This festival features a student art show, storytelling, puppet shows, crafts, face painting, games, music, food and the making of butterfly wing masterpieces for the butterfly costume parade. FREE; some events require $1 tickets. South Barrett Square, Main Street and Western Green, Rosemary Beach. 10 a.m.–4 p.m., culturalartsalliance.com
Nov. 9–30
Cottages for Kids A unique fundraising event for Children’s Volunteer Health Network when local builders and architects come together to create, construct and decorate whimsical fairy-tales, which will be open to the public during designated times on the weekend through November. The Cottages will be raffled and auctioned at the end of the month. FREE. East Long Green, Rosemary Beach. Full schedule online. (850) 622-3200, cottagesforkids.org
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Nov. 10
Pensacola Marathon This 26.2-mile scenic USATF-certified course is one of the last Boston Marathon Qualifiers in the Southeast. The course begins and ends in historic downtown and winds along Pensacola Bay. No dayof-race registration. Registration information and race schedule online. Veteran’s Memorial Park. Race day packet pickup 5 a.m.; race begins 6:30 a.m. (850) 434-2800, pensacolamarathon.com
Nov. 12
‘The Addams Family’ A delightfully devilish tale of the fateful night Wednesday Addams, the ultimate princess of darkness, and her parents, Gomez and Morticia, host a dinner for Wednesday’s “normal” boyfriend and his parents. It’s crazy, kooky and just plain spooky. $49. Mattie Kelly Arts Center, 100 College Blvd., Niceville. 7:30 p.m. (850) 729-6000, mattiekellyartscenter.org
Nov. 16
Sparkling Wines and Holiday Lights Stroll streets lined in twinkling lights and greenery; sip a variety of champagnes and taste featured menu items from various Village restaurants. Enjoy a sneak peek of the Village tree lighting and holiday entertainment throughout the Village. $40. The Village of Baytowne Wharf at Sandestin, 9300 Emerald Coast Pkwy. West,
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Miramar Beach. 4–7 p.m. (866) 912-3224, sandestinwinefestival.com
Nov. 16–22
Art Week at ADSO This year’s annual celebration of visual arts offers many two-hour classes in a variety of mediums, an art competition and an Art Party on the weekend’s final evening, with demos, games and refreshments, from 6–8 p.m. $25 for first class, $20 all classes thereafter (supplies provided); Art Party FREE. Art Center, 17 First St., S.E., Fort Walton Beach. (850) 244-1271, artsdesignsociety.org
Nov. 20
ADSO November Luncheon Make your reservations by Nov. 18 to see Brenda Tutin, who specializes in flower arrangements. She will discuss arrangements with holiday themes and also demonstrate how to make an advent wreath. $12 ($15 after Nov. 18). Art Center, 17 First St. S.E., Fort Walton Beach. 11:30 a.m. (850) 244-1271, artsdesignsociety.org
Nov. 22–Dec. 31
Season the Holidays with Island Spirit Santa Rosa Island hosts numerous holiday events throughout the season, including a children’s coloring contest, lighted boat parade and gingerbread cookie decorating. Full schedule available online. (850) 932-1500, pensacolabeachchamber.com
If you’re not a fan of our
EMERALD COAST MAGAZINE
Nov. 23
Seville Quarter Turkey Trot Join the Seville Quarter Miler’s Club for a 5K run/walk to trim the waistline before Thanksgiving. Call for registration info. Seville Quarter, Government St., Pensacola. 8 a.m. (850) 434-6211, sevillequarter.com
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Nov. 23–24
‘The Nutcracker’ Treat your family to the magic of “The Nutcracker,” where dolls come to life and Clara travels to the Kingdom of the Sweets. Audiences are sure to delight in the performances of principal guest artists Andres Estevez of BalletMet Columbus and Sarah Goud dancing alongside international guest artists and the NFB Corp de Ballets. $28 adults, $14 children. Mattie Kelly Arts Center, 100 College Blvd., Niceville. Sat 7:30 p.m., Sun 2:30 p.m. (850) 729-6000, mattiekellyartscenter.org
(and counting)
facebook.com/emeraldcoast
Nov. 25
‘Hello Dolly!’ Winner of 10 Tony Awards, including Best Musical, the show stars Sally Struthers, two-time Emmy Award and Golden Globe Award winner, in the irresistible musical that has charmed audiences around the world for nearly 50 years. $45. Mattie Kelly Arts Center, 100 College Blvd., Niceville. 7:30 p.m. (850) 729-6000, mattiekellyartscenter.org
Nov. 26
‘Hello Dolly!’ This enduring Broadway classic stars Sally Struthers as the strong-willed matchmaker who travels to Yonkers, N.Y., to find a match for the ornery “well-known unmarried half-a-millionaire” Horace Vandergelder. Call for ticket prices. Saenger Theatre, 118 S. Palafox Place, Pensacola. 7:30 p.m.
Nov. 29
850.291.4373
Professional Ground Transportation
Elf Parade Soak in the Christmas cheer as kids dress up and parade five blocks from the T.T. Wentworth Jr. Florida State Museum to the Saenger Theatre, caroling all the way. Children’s tea at 3:30 p.m. at Pensacola Little Theater/Portobello Restaurant. Parade admission FREE; tea admission $10. T.T. Wentworth Jr. Florida State Museum, 330 S. Jefferson St. 5 p.m. (850) 434-5371, downtownpensacola.com
• GENERAL DENTISTRY • ORTHODONTICS • COSMETIC DENTISTRY
Nov. 28–29
Here Comes Santa Claus Welcome Santa to Baytowne and cheer him on as he lights the Village Christmas tree. Stay for a choir music, lantern making and a light show and fireworks. FREE. The Village of Baytowne Wharf, 9300 Emerald Coast Pkwy. West, Miramar Beach. Friday 7 p.m., Saturday 6–9 p.m. (866) 912-3224, sandestin.com/events
MIRAMAR BEACH DENTAL & ORTHODONTICS
Nov. 29–Dec. 1
Midnight Madness This sale kicks off at midnight as Thanksgiving ends and runs through Sunday with a wide range of extraordinary savings, early-bird offers and more. FREE. Silver Sands Premium Outlets, 10562 Emerald Coast Pkwy., Destin. Friday, midnight–10 p.m.; Sat 8 a.m.–10 p.m., Sun 9 a.m.–8 p.m. (850) 654-9771, premiumoutlets.com/silversands
Nov. 29–30, Dec. 7, 14–16
Winterfest Trolley Tours Trolleys act as theaters, taking passengers to a series of interactive performances along a twomile route in historic downtown Pensacola. $20 adults, $12 children ages 2–10. Full schedule online. (850) 435-0914, pensacolawinterfest.org
Save the Date! Dec. 31
Countdown Seaside: A New Year’s Eve Celebration! Ring in 2014 at a big family-friendly party in Seaside’s Central Square featuring live entertainment, kid’s art projects, street performers and more fun. Festivities for this sixth annual event begin at 6 p.m. and last through midnight. Seasidefl.com ec
Jason E. Baker, DDS
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Thank you to our valued clients for their continued support in voting us “Best Accounting Firm” two years in a row.
2012, 2013
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socialstudies Girls’ Night Out May 30, 2013 Proffitt PR’s Girls’ Night Out at Pandora’s of Grayton Beach raised $10,031 for Boys & Girls Clubs of the Emerald Coast, bringing the total tally for charities raised by “GNO” events to $31,595.38. GNO photo by Nichole Burnett Photography
Emerald Coast Cattle Barons’ Ball Thank You Party August 19, 2013 EC Magazine was one of the media sponsors honored for giving cancer the boot at a thank you party aboard the Solaris. Photos by Rhonda Murray
Ron Green and Lisa Morris
Stephanie Strauss and Julia Skinner
Jill Cadenhead and Tim Krueger
Kris and Megan Harrison, Rob Casler and Richard Ross
Renee Legere and Jason Knoll
Marinella and Robert Monk
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socialstudies Chi Chi Miguel Throwdown April 6, 2013 The Chi Chi Miguel Throwdown raised more than $825,000 for Alaqua Animal Refuge, Emerald Coast Children’s Advocacy Center, Food for Thought Outreach, George Rodrigue Foundation, Children’s Volunteer Health Network, Camille’s Art For Autism and the Emeril Lagasse Foundation. The renowned event that started as a simple backyard barbecue seven years ago featured a golf tournament at Emerald Bay Golf Club, a Sip ’n Shop ladies’ tour along the Scenic 30A Corridor, Krewe & Brew at the Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa and ended where it all began, with a festive backyard barbeque featuring fine wine vintners, celebrities and guests at the home of Chi Chi founders Mike and Valerie Thompson. Photos by Kay Phelan
Juan Mercado, Tor Kenward, Dean Gray and David Long
Laurie Hood, Julie Hurst, Jen Floro, Tiffanie Shelton and Zach Billingsley
Dawn Moliterno, Kim Brundage, Emeril and Alden Lagasse
A. Wickey Studio Gallery Opening July 11, 2013 Mixed media artist and gallery owner Allison Wickey gave visitors an intimate behind the scenes peek at her new gallery/artist studio in Seacrest Beach. The space is home to the works of nearly a dozen local artists representing a range of mediums. Guests enjoyed live music by Sinfonia violinist Kate Kelley, wine by the Krutz Family Cellars, local draughts by Grayton Beer Company, beautiful food by Raw & Juicy, and, of course, a backdrop of beautiful art. Photo by Zandra Wolfgram, Group photo of artists by Shelly Swanger
Christon Anderson, Juan Francisco Adaro, Allison Wickey, Mary Hong, Cody Copeland, Gaelle Le Goff, Kristina Woolf and Justin Lyons
Mary Hong and Tracy 66 October–November 2013
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Coastal Cuisine with a New Orleans flair
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Gulf Table From
to
It Takes a Village to Bring the Bounty of the Sea to Your Plate By Rosanne Dunkelberger Photos by Kansas Pitts Photography
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Consider the Red Snapper. The reef she
calls home is 12 miles off the coast of Destin and 150 feet underwater, where an old chicken coop dropped on the bottom has become a great place for she and her schoolmates to poke around, looking for shrimp and crabs to eat on the Gulf floor. Suddenly, her eye lights on a piece of fish, just floating there in the water, a perfect morsel. And she eats it. It’s a beautiful fall evening, and you’re sitting on the dock of a Destin Harbor eatery enjoying a glass of crisp, refreshing sauvignon blanc as you watch the clouds tinged shades of pink and orange by the setting sun. Your server sets in front of you a plate of grilled Red Snapper accompanied by ginger rice and finished with a lemon caper cream sauce. You flake off a bit of the filet with your fork, take your first bite and it is … sublime. This is the story of what happens in the hours between Paragraph 1 and Paragraph 2. Some in this cast of characters, like the fishermen and the chefs, are obvious. The fish cutters, packers, license holders and boat owners, maybe not so much. And there are others in the mix too, such as regulators, biologists, fishermen of yore, perhaps even the hand of God that you may not have considered at all.
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Destin is home to the largest commercial fishing fleet in the nation. Since it opened in 1979, Harbor Docks, owned and operated by the Morgan family, has helped the town keep its moniker "The World's Luckiest Fishing Village." With more than 100 commercial fishing boat suppliers operating between Pensacola and Panama City, the Morgan's wholesale seafood company is one of the largest and oldest seafood distributors on the Emerald Coast.
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A Little History
Let’s begin with the beginning of the Earth. By now, pretty much everybody who’s been around here more than 15 minutes knows about that quirk of underwater topography — the famed “100-fathom curve” — where the relatively shallow waters one finds along the Gulf of Mexico coastline drop off dramatically just south of Destin. A look at a nautical map shows that nearby port cities such as Panama City and Pensacola don’t have the fast access to deep water — a fathom is 6 feet, so we’re talking about 600 feet deep — that Destin enjoys. Kathy Marler Blue, whose family has lived in the area for four generations and is associate director of the Destin History & Fishing Museum, explains what this means: “All of the Gulf’s species live in a column somewhere of depth, surface to floor, (and) anglers out of Destin can reach every depth of fishable water for all Gulf species quicker than any other ports.” The museum itself features more than 75 mounted fish, all caught in the Gulf off Destin. Because money is made when fishing, and not burning time and fuel getting to where the fish are, Destin Harbor has served as a base for commercial fishermen for more than 175 years. When Leonard Destin came to the area in 1835, there were no motorboats. Boats were powered by men with oars. There was no such thing as fishing reels, and there was no ice to keep the fish from spoiling. Consequently, fishing in the early days was done near shore with seine nets. For the first 100 years, in the remote area then known as East Pass, Blue says pioneer families were “poor dirt farmers and poor fishermen.” In the mid-1930s, a bridge was finally built that would connect the small community with Pensacola to the west. And over the years, the fishermen’s equipment and techniques would improve. A quantum leap came after World War II, with the advent of electronic devices that could pinpoint with great accuracy the underwater reefs and rock formations that attracted quantities of fish. Before that time, “you had to be very, very skilled to find where those structures were. It was an artificial cap (on the number of fishermen),” says local businessman Dewey Destin, the great-great grandson of Leonard. “There is no cap anymore. You can fish anywhere all over the world in any depth of water with those electronics and go right straight to the
structure every time as long as you have a number that tells you where the structure is.” But with that electronic breakthrough came regulation.
The Rules
While a landlubber’s romanticized vision of commercial fishing might include a grizzled boat captain and his mates enjoying the salt air, dropping hooks and hauling in the bounty of the sea, the reality looks quite different. Fifty-year-old Danny Bryant captains the Dawg Hunter (“It’s a Georgia thing,” he says), a boat owned by another person. After 35 years of fishing, he does have the grizzled look, but with multitudinous regulations to keep track of, as well as taxes and the cost of fuel, ice, bait and tackle, his life is far from carefree. Even his blown out flip-flop — what he calls “slaps” — that cost $40 a pair and have to be replaced every six weeks or so, were on his mind. After a fishing trip that yielded mostly Vermillion Snapper (aka mingoes or b-liners), he and mate Mike Meyers were cleaning the boat after some particularly harrowing weather — “Took three (waves) broadside, breaking over the whole boat” — that set off the Emergency Position Indicating Radiobeacon (EPIRB), a safety device that alerts the Coast Guard that a boat is in distress. “We were about 20 miles from Pensacola when I saw a C130 circling me, (then a) helicopter pulled up on top of us,” Bryant says. He was half expecting the feds to appear and slap him with a fine for the false alarm. Fishing in the Gulf of Mexico is subject to a dizzying array of ever-changing rules created and enforced by multiple state and federal agencies. There are regulations about the species, sizes and numbers of fish that can be caught. What can be used to catch them. Where and when they can be caught. Permits required for commercial fishing in general and specific fish in particular. Reporting what is caught. And that’s just for the commercial fishery. There’s a whole different set of rules and permits for charter and recreational fishers. “You need to have an onboard attorney,” quipped Destin. But even the fishermen recognize the need for regulation. “The regulations, as a whole, are a good thing. It needs to be regulated before we wipe (the fish) out. We have the technology to do that,” comments Meyers. “They’ve just got to do it some way that it’s fair for everybody.”
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EmeraldCoastMagazine.com
On the Dock
In the early days of his Harbor Docks restaurant, owner Charles Morgan figured out the equation: Fish minus middleman equals lower prices. And so, in the morning, before the locals and tourists arrive in droves at the Destin Harbor landmark and begin digging into their fried Seafood Combo Plates, the dock below the restaurant is abuzz with activity at the Harbor Docks Seafood Market. The wholesale market supplies fish for Harbor Docks and Morgan’s other restaurants — Camille’s in Destin, Dharma Blue in Pensacola, as well as four Five Bar restaurants in Birmingham, Ala., Tuscaloosa, Ala., Athens, Ga., and a fourth slated to open in Gainesville in the fall. Their website lists nearly 40 local restaurants serving their fish, which are also shipped to restaurants and wholesalers throughout the U.S. and Canada. On a spring morning earlier this year, Chatham Morgan (son of Charles) was sorting snappers by size from a huge vat into purple plastic baskets. Five or so workers in bright orange rubberized waders grab the fish, dunk them in an ice water bath (“It kind of pretties them up a bit,” says one.), pack them with fresh ice into cardboard cartons and load them into a refrigerated truck. Chatham Morgan says the market will ship 25,000 to 30,000 pounds of fish on a busy week, “a few
Above: The underbelly of the Harbor Docks is where the real action is. If you are lucky to be dining there when a fishing boat brings in its bounty you may see as much as 20,000 pounds of fresh Gulf red snapper offloaded by a team of hardworking dockhands. Then again, some days Mother Nature isn't as kind. Left: Under the dock, 23-yearold Boyko Bochev of Bulgaria, who has worked at Harbor Docks for two summer seasons, pauses from packing red snapper on ice to smile for the camera as his fishmonger friends look on.
thousand” on a slow week. “I’d say our busiest week we pushed 80,000 pounds of fish.” All the more amazing when one looks inside the market, which consists of a crammed order-taking office, a fish-cutting room and an icy storage area that’s no bigger than a decent-sized master bedroom. “A lot of stuff (comes) in and out … it’s a revolving door,” says Chatham Morgan. “If you’re not constantly buying and selling fish, the fish is getting old. You’ve got to have fish constantly coming in; you’ve got to have fish constantly going out. It can get very chaotic.” Eddie Morgan (another son of Charles) says it is very possible that a fish swimming in the Gulf in the morning could be on your plate within hours. “Our mullet guy … starts at daylight (and) gets here at 9:30 in the morning. And we’re cutting mullet for lunch.” The brothers say their own restaurant and others are the top customers for their piscine wares. Faraway seafood markets pay less and get what can’t be immediately sold. “We don’t want to send it to New York, who’s going to send it to another market in New York, who’s going to send it to a processor, who’s finally going to send it to a restaurant,” says Chatham Morgan. “We say, ‘Cut out as many people as you can and get straight to a restaurant.’” Using a brokerage called Sea to Table, the market can pack and ship orders to restaurants overnight. EmeraldCoastMagazine.com October–November 2013
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Clockwise from top: Charles Dawsey and Eric Stovall are expert fish cutters who work up to 10 hours a day; Harbor Docks packs and ships its fresh Gulf seafood in refrigerated trucks to restaurant tables all around the Southeast; Chef Yoshie is a masterful sushi chef who works her creative magic on the day’s fresh catch; Harbor Docks is one of a handful of wholesale seafood companies based in Destin.
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Photos courtesy Gina Yra of DeLush Design (Sushi and Harbor Docks Restaurant)
Locals and visitors alike flock to Harbor Docks to savor one of the best views of the Destin Harbor in town and fresh Gulf seafood likely caught that very day.
There’s one species of fish that hardly ever makes it out of Destin. As he was giving a tour, Eddie Morgan spied a triggerfish on ice. “You need to make sure you get that triggerfish before they try to sell it,” he instructed one worker. Fish cutter Eric Stovall concurs. “I love triggerfish. They used to call them trash fish, they used to throw them back 20, 30 years ago. Now, it’s great.” The dock is populated by characters, including Tony Martin, who describes himself as “a worker, I guess. Partner, manager, indentured servant since ’84.” He’s the guy who sets the price the market will pay for fish. It’s not like the New York Stock Exchange, with posted prices. Martin keeps it all in his head — the law of supply and demand in action — all day, six days a week. He’s also aware of what boats are coming into the harbor and what sorts of fish they’ve caught. “It could be sold before they even touch the dock,” he says. While he drives a hard bargain, Martin says it’s more than an exchange of money. It’s more like a friendship and a partnership with all the fishermen. Harbor Docks owns a few boats. Most of the suppliers are independent fishermen, although Martin estimates between 40 and 60 boats sell exclusively to the Harbor Docks market. “I’m not high every time, but in general they make more money selling to me,” he says, because they’re supplying Harbor Docks’ affiliated restaurants. Last year, the restaurants used $650,000 worth of seafood items, according to Martin. One of the most expensive fish crossing the dock is the tuna, and a fish’s value is determined by a grade between one and three based on color, clarity and fat content. No. 1 is the best — sushi grade. Stovall,
who’s been cutting fish for 15 years, demonstrated “plugging” a tuna to determine its grade. He shoved a thin metal cylinder under the fish’s fin into the meat, pulled it out and then pushed out a worm-sized core sample of the meat. “What you want to look for is the blood line; you want to see how red the blood line is. You want it bright red.” The fish he was testing had a brownish cast when held in the sunlight, so it didn’t make the (sushi) grade. “This would be a No. 2. It’s perfectly fine to cook. That’s a pretty fish, but it’s not a sushi-pretty fish.” The fish-cutting room has a concrete floor that’s wet as the cutters hose gore off the waist-high stainless steel table in between fish. The process is surprisingly low-tech. Order takers write down the types of fish and poundage needed, and the forms are clothes-pinned to a line for the cutters to see. “I don’t do anything until somebody says, ‘This is what we need.’ It is hard. It’s monotonous. I just stand there for eight, 10 hours just cutting away.” While he’s constantly sharpening them, Stovall uses only two different knives to cut everything from little mullet to thick-skinned cobia. Although he’s just 33 years old, Stovall wears braces on his wrist and elbow and admits, “I’ve got scars and puncture wounds all over me.”
The Last Word
Despite all the laws, the hard work, bad weather, danger and the uncertainties of the trade, the fish business is still Captain Bryant’s job of choice: “It’s better to be out there ridin’ around in the salt air, in your shorts and slaps, instead of a son of a bitch cramped up in an office wearin’ a suit.” ec EmeraldCoastMagazine.com October–November 2013
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Emerald Coast’s
Best
of
2013
A toa st to t h e cr ea m of t he c oa s t We choose to live, work and play in the Emerald Coast because it has a distinct sense of place that gives us a true sense of belonging. Locals will tell you that the quality of life here is unlike any other, not because of the sugar-sand beaches, though they are spectacular. Not because of the climate, though the Southern tropical climate is desirable all year. It is surely 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 delicious restaurants, quaint retail shops and service-centric businesses they own and operate, and the exceptional professional services they dutifully provide to each of us day in and day out.
We left the honor to you, our loyal readers, to judge the Best for yourselves. Your votes were cast, the ballots have been counted, the results are in and now it’s time to celebrate! It’s lucky year 13 for what has become one of the most anticipated social events of the season. You will have a chance to mix, mingle and party with the Best of the Emerald Coast winners on Saturday, Oct. 19, from 6 to 9 p.m. at Grand Boulevard at Sandestin. For ticket information visit emeraldcoastmagazine.com. The real star of the show is the evening’s charity, the Junior League of the Emerald Coast, whose team of volunteers and members toil tirelessly for the betterment of our community. So, without further ado, we present the Best of the Emerald Coast for 2013 …
By Zandra Wolfgram Chay D. Baxley, Laura Bradley, Gregory Taylor Centers, Domonique Davis, Cecilia Smith-Schoenwalder and Darius Thomas contributed to this story.
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Best of Emerald Coast
Food & Beverage Best Appetizer
Bonefish Grill Whether you are looking for surf or turf, Bonefish has the Best appetizer to get your meal started right. Try the famous Bang Bang Shrimp tossed in a creamy spicy sauce or the Wagyu Beef and Ginger Dumplings, handmade with American-style Kobe and pan-seared with crispy shallots, Thai peppers and soy sauce. Destin, Pensacola, Panama City and Panama City Beach
Best Bagel Shop
Not Just Bagels The aroma of freshly baked bagels, breads and pastries fills the air of this gourmet bagel shop. With as many as two dozen flavors to choose from and a variety of cream-cheese flavored toppings made fresh daily, Not Just Bagels will have you in comfort-food heaven. Looking for a light meal? As the name implies, Not Just Bagels serves breakfast, sandwiches and salads, too. Destin
Photo by Kansas Pitts (Pettis)
Best Bakery
NEW
KaraBoo Bakery If you’re in need of a sweet treat, this locally owned bakery takes the cake. With delicious desserts for any occasion, KaraBoo Bakery’s homemade cakes (wedding and otherwise), pies, cupcakes and pastries will satisfy even the largest sweet tooth. If you are in the mood for something savory, try a fresh sandwich from its beachside café. Miramar Beach
Best BBQ
Jim ‘n Nick’s Bar-B-Q Slow-smoked baby back and spareribs, hand-pulled pork and sliced
Angus beef brisket are a few favorites on Jim ‘N Nicks mouthwatering menu. Refusing to cut corners, the restaurant smokes meats for 14 hours in hickory. The attention to detail and Southern-style barbeque will have you licking your fingers after every bite. Destin
Best Beer Selection
Miller’s Ale House Three cheers for the Ale House Restaurant! With more than 75 varieties of beer to choose and a full service bar that also includes wine and liquor, you will be toasting all night long. Pair the cold ale with a delicious steak, seafood, salad or pasta dish, and enjoy the relaxing atmosphere of this neighborhood family restaurant. Destin
Best Bloody Mary
The Red Bar Winning the hearts of locals, visitors and celebrities, The Red Bar is a favorite in Grayton Beach. Offering simple yet delicious lunch and dinner menus and an award-winning Bloody Mary, the eclectic bar is a popular indoor entertainment spot. Sit back on the funky furniture, and enjoy the sounds of live music with family and friends. Grayton Beach
Best Breakfast
Another Broken Egg Café Another Broken Egg scrambles up some of the best breakfast food in town. Serving more than 130 delicious, home-cooked breakfast, brunch and lunch foods, this warm and cozy café has earned Best Breakfast for more than a decade, proving it has cracked the code and found the secret ingredient to win
Best Chef Dan Pettis Chef Dan Pettis, owner of One 20 A Modern Bistro, showcases a mixture of his Southern upbringing and worldly travels in every dish. With a love for fresh and local ingredients Chef Pettis, an Emerald Coast native, utilizes his farmer’s market located adjacent to the restaurant. Niceville
diners’ hearts. Destin, Miramar Beach and Grayton Beach
Best Brunch
Mama Clemenza’s European Breakfast Fresh ingredients and homemade attention to detail are staples of this weekend brunch spot. Try the Lemon Curd Ricotta Pancakes, Flourless Espresso Biscuits and Italian Breakfast Panini; with prosciutto, eggs and Gruyere, all made from old Sicilian family recipes. Fort Walton Beach
Best Buffalo Wings
Buffalo’s Reef Famous Wings Offered in a variety of different flavors, the made-to-order wings are worth the wait. If you are in the mood for something spicy, the Hot or Super Hot flavors won’t disappoint. Can’t take the heat? No worries! The Honey BBQ, Teriyaki, Honey Mustard or Garlic Parmesan flavors might be for you. Fort Walton Beach
Best Cajun
NEW
790 On The Gulf Enjoy some fresh Florida seafood with Louisiana flavor. Serving fresh shrimp, salads, seafood and homemade comfort food favorites, this authentic Cajun and seafood restaurant brings a taste of the bayou to the beach. Complete with an outdoor patio allowing diners to enjoy the evening sunset, 790 on the Gulf offers the best Cajun classics in town. Destin
Best Onsite Catering NEW
Bijoux Catering Put something “special” into your next private party, wedding or corporate event with the experienced staff at RSVP/Bistro Bijoux. Now a joint venture, it offers onsite catering for large events that will make use of the entire restaurant. For smaller onsite celebrations, check out the private dining guide. Miramar Beach
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Best Chinese
P.F. Chang’s China Bistro Using only the freshest ingredients, P.F. Chang’s extensive made-to-order menu is served family style, allowing guests to try numerous dishes. From its handrolled pork egg rolls and crispy honey chicken to the vegetarian Ma Po Tofu and Gluten free Moo Goo Gai Pan, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Miramar Beach
Best Coffee
Starbucks Coffee It happens millions of times each week — a customer receives a drink from a Starbucks Coffee barista, but each interaction is unique. And it’s a connection that Starbucks strives to make sure is a memorable experience. From its commitment to the highest quality coffee in the world to the way its staff engages with their customers, Starbucks is committed to being the Best. Destin, Grayton Beach, Miramar Beach and Fort Walton Beach
mouthwatering Pineapple Crème Brulee taste like an island getaway. Miramar Beach
Best Fine Dining
Seagar’s Prime Steaks and Seafood Best known for its USDA prime steaks and seafood, this five-star restaurant located inside Hilton Sandestin Golf Beach Resort & Spa has made additions to its top-rated menu, including Seared Scamp and Lobster Risotto. The entire restaurant has been recently renovated, and iPads are also available for guests who would like to explore the restaurant’s 600-label wine list, as well as discover suggested food pairings. Miramar Beach
Best French
Bistro Bijoux This romantic French bistro combines a resort-casual and finedining atmosphere with fresh cuisine and authentic flavors. Enjoy an extensive award-winning wine list and the intimate Bijoux Lounge. Try the crisp pan fried Duck Confit with sautéed spinach with figs, mango chutney and Spanish almonds. Bon Appetit! Miramar Beach
Best Gourmet/ Food Shop
Tommy Bahama’s Piña Colada Cake
Best Dessert
Tommy Bahama’s Restaurant & Bar Delight in a dining experience with a tropical twist. Tommy Bahama’s island-themed desserts utilize various Caribbean flavors. The signature Piña Colada Cake is the perfect ending to a day at the beach, while the Butterscotch Pudding, Key Lime Pie and
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Sarah K’s Gourmet The daily changing menu that incorporates seasonal vegetables and fresh catches always offers something new! Display cases packed with ready-to-heat gourmet options fill the shop. Using the finest ingredients, Sarah K’s Gourmet prepares a variety of delicious takehome meals complete with cooking instructions. Destin
Best Grouper Sandwich NEW
Dewey Destin’s Seafood The great view, fresh catches and
EmeraldCoastMagazine.com
Best Hibachi Osaka Japanese Steakhouse & Sushi Bar If you are looking for dinner and a show, Osaka is the place for you. Complete with the freshest available ingredients and expert chefs preparing dishes at your table, the Japanese steakhouse offers guests an entertaining and satisfying dining experience unmatched by competitors. Destin, Miramar Beach
relaxed atmosphere make this casual seafood eatery a local favorite. Whether it’s blackened, grilled or fried, the fish is always a delicious choice. Relax at a table on the dock overlooking the water, and enjoy an award-winning grouper sandwich and cold drink at this quaint seafood shack. Destin
Best Gumbo
NEW
The Boathouse Oyster Bar The open air dining view of the bay offered by the Boathouse attracts locals and tourists alike. Though named for its oysters, Boathouse’s seafood gumbo has become a popular choice among guests. The award-winning Crab and Shrimp Gumbo is served as a starter or meal and can be taken to go with a serving size as much as a gallon. Destin
Best Hamburger
McGuire’s Irish Pub As an award-winning steakhouse,
McGuire’s knows beef. This traditional Irish pub serves customground steak burgers with the choice of 25 different trimmings. Try the St. Patty Melt Steak Burger served with fried onions and Swiss on rye, the Sautéed Vidalia Onions Steak Burger or go for broke and attempt the Garbage Burger piled high with every topping in the house! Destin, Pensacola
Best Happy Hour
Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar Fleming’s offers 100 wines by the glass, a unique Wine Flight tasting program and a world-class list of reserve wines to complement your dining experience. You may also choose from five delicious “dining room” appetizers, five premium cocktails and five specially selected wines by the glass, each for just $6 before 7 p.m. We raise our glass to Fleming’s during Happy Hour or any hour. Miramar Beach
Best of Emerald Coast
Best Frozen Treat
Twirl Frozen Yogurt Beat the heat of the Florida sun with a big cup of Twirl’s soft-serve frozen yogurt. The frozen yogurt buffet offers a variety of changing flavors and scrumptious fruit, nut and candy toppings. Want the convenience of a cup with the taste of a cone? Build your own confection creation and enjoy the goodness. Destin
Photo by Scott Holstein (Osaka,Aegean) and Courtesy Romona Robbins Photography (PiÑa Colada Cake)
Best Italian Restaurant
NEW
Clemenza’s at Uptown Station Born from a love of cooking, deep Italian roots and a desire to delight its patrons, Clemenza’s encompasses all that is Italian cuisine. From woodfired pizzas and traditional red sauces to pasta and clams, paired with one of our premier wines, Clemenza’s offers a classic taste of Italy. Clemenza’s also boasts a full bar of premium liquors plus a wide array of specialty cappuccinos and espressos for an authentic and delicious Italian experience. Fort Walton Beach
Best Locally Owned Restaurant
Callahan’s Restaurant and Deli This locally owned and operated restaurant in the heart of Destin wins again with its great selections for brunch, lunch and dinner. Callahan’s generous portions of comfort food served in a casual atmosphere are sure to satisfy. Salads, sandwiches, soups, specials and your choice of a customcut prime rib and steak are offered on their diverse menu. There’s certainly something for everyone. Destin
Best Margarita
Cantina Laredo Cantina Laredo’s Casa Rita
Margarita is made from fresh lime juice and the finest tequila. Pair it with an authentic Mexican meal, then sit back and enjoy the sophisticated charm of this upscale cantina. Stop into this Mexican Citystyle restaurant where Cinco de Mayo is any day you choose it to be. Miramar Beach
guacamole made with only Hass avocados and handmade tamales. The extensive menu features á al carte options, combination meals or full entrees with beans, chicken, steak, shrimp or fish served with refried rice and beans. Destin, Miramar Beach and Niceville
Best Martini
Best Outdoor Bar
Bonefish Grill Bonefish is the place to gather with family, friends and colleagues for specialty martinis, including refreshing tropical flavors like fresh watermelon, pomegranate, raspberry and summer Georgia peach. Order the Ocean Trust mango martini, and $1 will be donated to Ocean Trust to work toward ocean conservation. Destin, Pensacola, Panama City and Panama City Beach
Best Mediterranean
Aegean Restaurant Transport yourself to the shores of sunny Greece with each bite at this family owned and operated Mediterranean restaurant. From the Greek waffles served with yogurt, honey and walnuts for breakfast, to the homemade hummus and traditional gyro sandwich for lunch and then the petite rack of lamb for dinner — every dish on the menu is a flavorful favorite. Miramar Beach and Shalimar
Best Mexican/ Latin American Restaurant
Pepito’s Mexican Restaurant Come on in for some traditional Mexican dishes featuring freshly made salsas,
AJ’s Seafood & Oyster Bar With balmy breezes coming off the Destin Harbor, great live entertainment on a large outdoor deck and an extensive menu of fresh local seafood that includes some of the tastiest oysters in town, you have a recipe for success at AJ’s Seafood & Oyster Bar. No wonder locals and visitors alike flock here for fun year after year. Destin
Best Outdoor Dining NEW
Boshamps Seafood & Oyster House Enjoy fresh oysters and watch the sunset from one of Boshamps’ four decks that tier down to the water. All decks have seating for guests to watch the boats that dot the harbor. Stop by even if it’s raining; Boshamps provides a covered deck with a bar and seats for dining. Destin
Best Oysters
NEW
Boshamps Seafood & Oyster House Experience true Southern hospitality while you sit on the deck overlooking the harbor and savor the Best oysters on the coast. Whether you savor a dozen raw, within a cocktail or the house specialty of baked oysters served with caramelized Vidalia onion, Alabama fest and house-made bacon marmalade, you’re sure to find
Best Restaurant in the County
Best Restaurant, Escambia County
NEW
Jackson’s Steakhouse Jackson’s Steakhouse has more to brag about than just their steak. With a full seafood dinner menu it’ll be hard to choose between a delicious steak or the grouper, scallops, Yellowfin tuna, salmon and crab cakes. Steaks can be topped with lump crab, grilled shrimp or lobster tail. Pensacola
Best Restaurant, Okaloosa County
NEW
Clemenza’s Uptown A meal at Clemenza’s is an experience to be savored. Begin with an antipasta starter or perhaps the homemade soup of the day. It will be hard to decide between the many pasta dishes such as Seafood Linguini or Clemenza’s Classic Neapolitan, the hand-tossed wood-fired pizzas and authentic Italian entrees such as Chicken Parmesan and Veal Marsala — all are delicious favorites. Just be sure to save room for the Cannoli with chocolate chips and pistachios, a slice of Tiramisu or the classic homemade Italian cheesecake! Delicioso! Fort Walton Beach
Best Restaurant, Walton County NEW
Fat Clemenza’s Fat Clemenza’s serves up authentic Italian cuisine like mama used to make. In addition to its family recipes of traditional Italian pastas, wood-fired pizzas, soups, chicken and veal dishes, Fat Clemenza’s has a blackboard with daily specials like “Fresh Fish Fridays,” when fresh fish caught locally is served on Friday night. And don’t forget to save room for one of the homemade deserts such as Panna Cotta! Miramar Beach
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Best of Emerald Coast
the Best oysters in town at Boshamps. Destin
Best Seafood Market
Best Pizza
Fat Clemenza’s This is Fat Clemenza’s sixth year as a “Best of” winner, and it is rightfully so. With pizzas like Fat Clemenza’s White Pizza (hot salami, artichokes, ricotta and mozzarella cheese) and the Capricciosa (domestic ham, spinach, hot salami, fire roasted peppers, caramelized onions, mushrooms, tomato sauce and mozzarella cheese) you can be sure you’ll find a slice you like here. Miramar Beach
Best Sandwich Shop
Lenny’s Sub Shop Choose between delicious hot or cold sub with half a pound of meat and cheese stacked on. Lenny’s serves up classics like the Philly Cheesesteak, Hot Italian and Ultimate BBQ Melt. Order a combo meal with a cookie or chips and a drink, so you’ll be sure to leave satisfied. Destin, Mary Esther, Fort Walton Beach, Niceville, Crestview
Destin Ice Seafood Market and Deli Pick up everything you need for a delicious seafood meal at Destin Ice Seafood Market and Deli. The knowledgeable staff will answer any questions you have. Fish (including grouper, snapper, mahi, tuna, salmon and much more), crab (including live or already prepared), scallops, shrimp, oysters and crawfish are for sale. Destin
Best Seafood Restaurant
Dewey Destin’s Seafood Come dine on the Destin Harbor, and taste a bite of history. Dewey Destin’s carries the legacy of one of the town’s oldest fishing families and now serves up the Best seafood in town. The smoked tuna dip, blackened grouper with shrimp served over cheese grits and stuffed shrimp (wrapped in bacon and fried) are long-time favorites at this family owned and operated seafood gem. Destin
Best Sports Bar
O’Quigley’s Seafood Steamer and Oyster Sports Bar Winner of Best Sports Bar the past eight years, O’Quigley’s has 24 taps and four 16-foot high definition televisions to tune in to your favorite sporting event. And they have turned up the steam on their menu, literally. In addition to old favorites, sandwiches and Irish Fare, O’Quigley’s is now offering several variations of seafood steamers, fresh catch of the day and for those who love both land and sea, Turf & Surf. Destin
Best Service — Food and Beverage Marlin Grill
Best Steakhouse Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse All of Ruth’s Chris’ signature steaks are served on a 500-degree plate, and it’s guaranteed that every bite will be as delicious as the first. All steaks are USDA prime cuts. Choose from the filet, ribeye, T-bone, New York strip or porterhouse for two. The restaurant’s East Bar is a great place to gather with friends for a good glass of wine, a savory bite and some catching up. Destin
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Excellent food and an impressive 600-label wine list are paired with the Best service in town at the Marlin Grill in the Village of Baytowne Wharf at Sandestin. Marlin Grill has been a longtime local favorite. Whether serving its mouth watering hickory-grilled filet mignon, shrimp and grits or roasted duck for dinner or a catered affair, the attentive staff will make your dining experience a memorable one. Destin
EmeraldCoastMagazine.com
Best Sushi
Harbor Docks Harbor Docks has been a favorite of locals since 1979. Family owned and operated, this casual restaurant and bar has won back its customers (and awards) again and again simply by serving up expertly prepared fresh local seafood with a friendly smile. And watching the sunset over the Destin Harbor is pretty delicious, too. Come here for Yoshie’s artfully crafted hand-rolled sushi and sashimi that tastes as good as it looks. Destin
Best Thai
NEW
Jasmine Thai Jasmine Thai puts a modern twist on traditional Thai cuisine.
Don’t be worried if you can’t handle the heat, because Jasmine Thai provides a variety of dishes with different levels of spiciness that are made to order. Traditional or modern, the fresh ingredients make every dish delicious. Take your time and savor the flavors in your lunch or dinner entrée on the outdoor patio. A children’s menu allows everyone in the family to enjoy their favorites. Destin
Best Wine List
NEW
Chan’s Wine World Get help choosing the perfect bottle of wine from a staff that calls itself “only as good as the last bottle of wine we sell.” Don’t have a favorite bottle yet? Go in for wine tastings every Friday from 5–7 p.m. for help choosing. Chan’s Wine World will also help you with the perfect gift — a wine-themed gift basket. Destin, Fort Walton Beach, Miramar Beach, Panama City, Pensacola, WaterColor
Best Art Gallery
NEW
Justin Gaffrey Justin Gaffrey performs “sculpting with paint” in his lush, vibrant, nature-inspired acrylic paintings. A long time resident of Santa Rosa Beach, he enjoyed a variety of successful careers prior to turning to art in 2001. Named Artist of the Year in 2005, Gaffrey’s work is showcased and collected all across the U.S., but his original works are still created in his studios right here on the Emerald Coast. Santa Rosa Beach, Seaside
Best Musician/ Vocalist/Band
Heritage Starting with just three guys with a ukulele and bongos in the backyards of Okaloosa County, Heritage has transcended from the local scene onto the national one. You can catch them in a city near you on their Warped Tour 2013. Destin
Entertaiment Photos by Scott Holstein (Gaffrey) and Courtesy Ruth’s Chris (Steak)
Best DJ
NEW
EXQ ROCK THE HOUSE You have enough to worry about for your big event; the right music shouldn’t be your concern. Shane Keller from EXQ offers professional DJ services for all types of events. He’ll provide just the right type of music for your wedding, Bat Mitzvah or party. Destin
Best Golf Course
Regatta Bay Golf and Country Club Ranked one of the “Top 15” courses in Florida by Golf Digest, Regatta Bay’s golf course is any golfer’s dream. The par-72 course offers on-course circulating beverage carts, chilled apples on the 1st and 10th tees and a full service restaurant nearby. Go to the website to watch a “Hole-by-Hole” online tour. Destin
Best Place for Kids Birthday Party
Best Local Attraction
Abrakadoodle Not only does Abrakadoodle host a variety of exciting art education programs and camps, it’s the perfect place to host a creative party for kids. They provide talented teachers, fun activities and a masterpiece for each child to take home. Destin
Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park Florida’s oldest marine park is still keeping afloat with its fun programs and exciting shows. Whether you’re splashing with the dolphins or snorkeling with stingrays, there’s an aquatic adventure for all ages at the Gulfarium. Fort Walton Beach
Best Local Artist
Best Local Event
Andy Saczynski Turning “junk” into “funk” is all in a day’s work for this awardwinning artist born and raised on the Emerald Coast. Working with acrylic, wood, metal, copper and recycled musical instruments, Andy Saczynski finds his artistic inspiration through music and in Florida’s architecture, landscape and wildlife. You can visit and purchase his vibrant, dynamic pieces at the Andy Saczynski Studio-Gallery. Grayton Beach
Best Place to be Seen
HarborWalk Village The heart of Destin is found in one place — HarborWalk Village. This vibrant waterfront village is filled with dozens of quaint boutique shops, lively restaurants and family-friendly entertaintainment. No matter if it’s day or night, HarborWalk Village is the place to be and be seen! Destin
NEW
Little Black Dress Party Ladies all along the Emerald Coast are eager to put on that “little black number” in the name of preventive health care. The festive charity event that has quickly become the party of the season is hosted by WhiteWilson Medical Center and features a new theme each year along with live and silent auctions, casino gambling, a fashion show, music and dancing. Fort Walton Beach
Best Place to go Dancing
John Wehner’s Village Door Restaurant and Nightclub When the sun goes down, locals and visitors alike come out to play and dance the night away at the Village Door. This two-story highenergy disco features multi-level bars, a tasty menu, an expansive deck with a view of the bay and … the dance floor everyone wants to own. Miramar Beach
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Best Place to Take the Kids
Big Kahuna’s Water Park With more than 40 water attractions and an adventure park, your family is sure to make a big splash at Big Kahuna’s. Featuring the world’s biggest manmade waterfall and dozens of slides, you’ll be sure to quench your thirst for summer fun. Destin
Best Place to Watch a Sunset NEW
Harry T’s What better way to enjoy a spectacular sunset on the Emerald Coast than over delicious drinks and fresh Gulf seafood? Celebrate the good life with friends and family as you take in the stunning, panoramic water views at this Destin hot spot. Destin
Best Radio Personality
Woofy Since the early ’90s, Woofy has been a familiar voice on the Emerald Coast airwaves. Over the years his down-to-earth personality and radio show has gained a loyal following. And his community outreach efforts have made
the Emerald Coast an even better place to live, work and play. Fort Walton Beach
Best Resort
Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort Celebrating 40 years as the premier resort in the Southeast, Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort has become a family tradition for locals and visitors who venture to this 2,400-acre haven for its enviable beach and bayfront location filled with a seeming endless array of world-class amenities. Miramar Beach
Best Tennis Facility NEW
Tops’l Beach & Racquet Resort A tranquil beach and racquet resort just east of Destin, Tops’L offers peace of location with the convenience of city attractions just minutes away. The tennis center has certified tennis instructors and programs, an exercise facility, a racquetball court, dedicated children’s program and much more. Miramar Beach
Service Providers Best Accounting Firm
Coastal Accounting Keeping true to its core principals of professionalism, responsiveness and quality, Coastal Accounting provides outstanding service to its clients. With services ranging from personal financial planning, to account and tax preparation, these trusted advisors are more than capable of assisting you with your financial decisions. Destin and Niceville
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Best Acupuncture Clinic
The Tortoise Clinic With 20 years of experience, clients return to The Tortoise Clinic for results. Offering a variety of therapies and treatments, including acupuncture, customized herbal medicine prescriptions, medically oriented massage therapy and much more, no case is too tough for this healing practice. Santa Rosa Beach
EmeraldCoastMagazine.com
Best Aesthetician
Melissa St. John A licensed aesthetician since 2005, Melissa St. John with Destin Plastic Surgery has a true passion for the skincare industry, helping her clients achieve optimal results through clinical grade procedures and products. She is also a certified Xtreme Lash Extension stylist offering lash extensions and fills. Destin
Airport
NEW
Northwest Florida Regional Airport As Florida’s Gulf Coast preferred aviation gateway, Northwest Florida Regional Airport is an excellent option when making travel plans. Serving communities from Pensacola to Panama City to Alabama, flying is a breeze for over 2 million residents. Fort Walton Beach
Best Architect
NEW
W Architects, P.A. In 1978, William Pope Sr. established W Architects, P.A., a premier, architectural design and planning firm based out of Destin. Today, the Pope’s family business has expanded into two other entities — W Development and W Capital. Together, the three comprise W Companies, an incredible investment and architectural resource for the EC. With projects ranging from residential to retail and commercial that span the country, W Architects’ experience and expertise has earned it a spot on the Best list. Destin
Best Audio/ Visual Provider
Audio Video by Stan After launching his business in 2009, Stan Zawisza remains on
Best of Emerald Coast Best Car/Limo Shuttle Service
NEW
D’luxe Limousines D’luxe Limousines is dedicated to delivering the highest quality of limousines and chauffeurs to meet all your personal and professional transportation needs. Put them in the driver’s seat for all of your transportation needs, and enjoy your event in safety and comfort. Destin
Best Builder/ Contractor
Dixon Kazek Morrison Custom Homes This Best of winner has garnered a host of impressive accolades over the years, including first place in the Parade of Homes seven times; the Emerald Coast Association of Realtors (ECAR) Realtors Choice Award and the Building Industry Association Builder of the Year award. Miramar Beach
Best Auto Repair the cutting edge of home media entertainment technology. Passionate about his craft, this Best winner makes himself available to clients 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Destin
Photo by Scott Holstein (D’Luxe Limo)
Best Automobile Dealership
Sam Taylor BuickGMC-Cadillac For the sixth year in a row, Sam Taylor Buick-Cadillac has made the Best list. The staff’s attention to customer service keeps volume high and customers coming back. Fort Walton Beach
Best Bank
Regions With $127 billion in assets, Regions Financial Corporation is a prominent member in the S&P
500 index. It is one of the nation’s largest full-service providers of consumer and commercial banking, wealth management, mortgage and insurance products and services. Regions is a community-minded bank committed to helping customers. Locations throughout the Emerald Coast
Best Boat Sales & Service
Legendary Marine/ Yacht Club When it comes to all things boating, Legendary Marine is 100 percent committed to earning your valued business and becoming your full-service provider. With four dealership locations, the service team works with you to maximize your boating experience. Destin and Fort Walton Beach
NEW
Sam Taylor Buick-Cadillac Sam Taylor’s service department is staffed with qualified, professional technicians ready to answer your questions and address your service needs. Fort Walton Beach
Best Charity/ Non-Profit NEW
Alaqua Animal Refuge Founded in 2007, Alaqua Animal Refuge is a private, nonprofit animal sanctuary that is committed to serving the Emerald Coast. Alaqua is a no-kill facility. It initially provided shelter to only a handful of dogs, cats and other animals but over the years has provided a place of respite for over 250 animals at a given time. Freeport
Best Charter Boat/ Watersports
Destin Vacation Boat Rentals If you’re looking for a fun day in the sun, Destin Vacation Boat Rentals has got the gear to make it happen. Gather your family and friends and set sail on the Destin Harbor in search of dolphins, ride the waves on a Jet Ski adventure, hang out at Crab Island and soak in the sun, or simply relax and spend the day fishing. If you love the water, this outfit has all the watersport toys you need to put a splash of fun in your day. Destin
Best Chiropractic Practice
Payne Chiropractic Wellness Center With a passion to see their patients regain optimal health, Dr. Alan Payne and his team will help get your body back into proper alignment through natural chiropractic care. The facility’s stateof-the-art services include clinical nutrition with the BioMeridian assessment tool, Aqua Chi hydrotherapy device and four different types of massage. Destin
Best Customer Service NEW
Avantgarde Salon & Spa Avantgarde is a full-service salon and spa offering hair, body and skin services and treatments at two locations in Destin. This experienced team of specialists has been voted Best Salon, Best Customer Service and Best Massage Therapist by EC magazine readers. It is a three-time Emerald Coast Top Salon finalist and has been named a Top 200 Salon in the United States by Salon Today for 11 consecutive years. Destin
Best Dance/Ballet Gymnastics Class
NEW
U.S. Gold Gymnastics and Cheerleading Specializing in the fundamental
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Best of Emerald Coast
physical development of preschool and elementary students, the dedicated coaching staff will present your child with a fun environment and a solid foundation for a healthy body and mind. Miramar Beach and Crestview
Best Dermatology Practice
Coastal Skin Surgery and Dermatology Providing a variety of surgical, cosmetic and medical dermatology services, Coastal Skin Surgery and Dermatology is devoted to providing patients the finest dermatologic care on the Emerald Coast. Miramar Beach, Fort Walton Beach, Niceville
Best Dental Practice
The Center for Cosmetic and Family Dentistry Dr. Lichorwic and his team at The Center for Cosmetic and Family Dentistry have perfected thousands of confident smiles and continue to be one of the top-rated dental clinics in the area. Earning its 10th Best of the Emerald Coast award, they offer family and cosmetic dentistry, as well as teeth whitening and alignment services. Destin and Panama City Beach
Best Event Planning Company
Monark Events Monark Events is a full-service event management company that specializes in planning and staging corporate, non-profit and private functions nationwide. Founded on the principals of trust, service, creativity and exceeding expectations, Monark is dedicated to your event’s success. Destin
Best Eye Doctor Practice
Dr. Kevin Wells Dr. Kevin Wells has been in practice for more than 15 years and is committed to getting exceptional results for his patients. A leader in the optical industry, Wells Vision and Laser Eye Center offers comprehensive exams, designer eyewear and the most advanced laser correction. Destin and Seacrest
Best Flooring (Carpet/Tile)
Infinity Flooring Once again, Infinity Flooring proves it values its work and its customers. The flooring company offers quality hardwood flooring, tiles, vinyl and carpet products
at reasonable prices while schedules are kept and customer concerns are promptly taken care of. Miramar Beach
Best Florist
GG Bloom Like a Victorianera garden filled with aged pottery, beautiful flowers and home and garden accents, GG Bloom has a unique flair for creating amazing flower arrangements and gift baskets. And if you prefer silk flowers that could fool anyone, GG Bloom also designs arrangements that will stand the test of time. Destin
Best Gym/Health Club/Fitness Center
Destin Health and Fitness Club The Emerald Coast’s first-ever upscale health and fitness center offers the ultimate workout experience in its state-of-the-art facilities. With a wide range of classes, equipment, personal instructors and child-care services, no wonder it ranked No. 1 with our readers. Destin and Miramar Beach
Best Hair Salon
Best Dry Cleaner The French Laundry Voted Best of Emerald Coast for three years in a row, The French Laundry prides itself on being the only eco-friendly cleaner in South Walton. Its Go-Green attitude and experienced staff gives customers a healthy environment as well as the peace of mind knowing their items are receiving the best care possible. Miramar Beach and Santa Rosa Beach
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Conditioning & Heating Serving the Emerald Coast since 1995, Gulfshore strives to exceed the highest standards for service and training. The company specializes in custom system design, ensuring you’ll be cool in the summer and warm in the winter. Niceville
Best Insurance Agency Harris Insurance Harris Insurance Services is a licensed insurance brokerage firm authorized to serve throughout Florida and provide comprehensive solutions for your insurance needs. A full-service insurance provider since 1965, Harris represents more than 150 insurance companies in order to bring the most reputable, A-rated insurance companies under one roof. Fort Walton Beach
Best Interior Design Firm
Design Avenue Whether you are looking for the perfect piece of furniture or looking to remodel your entire home, Design Avenue is a full-service interior design center ready to assist you through every stage of the process. Destin
Avantgarde Salon & Spa Avantgarde Salon & Spa is a fullservice AVEDA salon and spa with an experienced team of professional stylists trained to provide the latest in precision hair cuts, rich color and beautiful styling. Whether you are maintaining a look you love, ready to try something new or excited to be made over for a wedding or special occasion, Avantgarde’s friendly and knowledgeable team is simply sheer genius. Destin
Best Landscaping/ Lawn Service
Best Heating and Air Service
Best Law Firm
GulfShore Air
Barefoot Lawn Care & Landscape Serving the 30A and Destin area for more than 15 years, Barefoot provides professional irrigation services, sodding, seeding, mulching, fountains and water features. Trying to sell or spruce up your home? After a quick call, Barefoot can improve both your home’s value and its curb appeal. Santa Rosa Beach
NEW
Ward & Ketchersid Ward & Ketchersid has a diverse
Best Martial Arts/Karate Resolute Martial Arts Resolute Martial Arts provides excellent characterbuilding martial arts classes and fitness instruction in a professional and fun environment. Each program is designed to promote mental and physical growth for the whole family. All the instructors are CPR, first-aid and AED certified. Destin
technicians will serve you with your choice of pedicures, manicures, artificial nails, eyebrow waxing, eyelash tinting and more. Located next to Marshalls, 4 Seasons is ready to spoil you year round. Destin
Best Personal Trainer NEW group of talented and experienced attorneys who are always accessible to meet your needs. Whether you are facing foreclosure, going through a divorce, investing in real estate or need other legal services, they will provide the attentive and thoughtful representation you require. Destin
Photos by Scott Holstein (French Laundry and Resolute Martial Arts)
Best Lighting Store
Beautiful Lights Fitting every need, every whim and every budget, Beautiful Lights has provided impeccable service and won Best of the Emerald Coast award for five consecutive years. From selection to installation, the shop works with residential and commercial clients to customize perfectly beautiful lighting for everyone. Destin
Best Locksmith
NEW
Destin Locksmithing If you’ve lost your keys or are locked out of the house, these are the guys to call. Fully licensed, bonded and insured, Destin Locksmithing is a mobile
locksmith company that operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Services include key making, lock installation, safe services, vehicle remotes, vehicle jumpstarts and much more. Destin and Panama City Beach
and surgical services, including general and orthopedic surgery, comprehensive radiology and laboratory services, maternal care, cardiology, cancer care, rehabilitation and 24-hour emergency services. Miramar Beach
Best Massage Therapist
Best Medical Practice
Neal Senn, Avantgarde Salon & Spa It’s safe to say Neal Senn has the magic touch. This six-time Best of the Emerald Coast winner offers a variety of massages, including Swedish, stone, deep tissue, elemental nature, pregnancy and couple massage. He’s also the only massage therapist in the area to offer scar tissue removal for patients recovering from surgery. Destin
Best Medical Center/Hospital
Sacred Heart Hospital on the Emerald Coast This medical center continues to accomplish its mission to improve the health of the community with a wide range of medical
White-Wilson Medical Center White-Wilson Medical Center is one of the largest multi-specialty physician groups in Florida. With more than 70 providers, 20 different specialties and multiple locations throughout the Emerald Coast, White-Wilson provides its patients with state-of-the-art technology, friendly and caring staff and the convenience of “onestop” shopping. Fort Walton Beach, Niceville and Destin
Best Nail Salon
4 Seasons Nail & Spa Nail down a date for some quality “me time” at Destin’s favorite place to be pampered: 4 Seasons Nail & Spa. A staff of four certified
Mark Rountree, Resolute Martial Arts & Family Fitness Stop dreaming about your perfect body, and start building it instead with the best personal trainer on the Emerald Coast. Mark Rountree will help you find your momentum and keep you moving and motivated. Destin
Best Pet Care/Shop
NEW
3 Dogs and a Chick Serving up freshly baked treats, birthday cakes, eco-friendly products and more for dogs, cats and pet lovers alike, this is the best place in the EC to shop for the purrfect products your pet will love. Dogs are always welcome to shop with their owners. Fort Walton Beach
Best Plumbing Fixtures/Service
NEW
Emerald Bay Plumbing & Gas Whether it’s repair or new construction, in a residential or commercial property, Emerald Bay Plumbing & Gas is prepared to
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exceed your expectations. Every technician brings a wealth of experience and is trained to handle all aspects of plumbing and natural gas piping. Destin
your taste. Choose from thousands of rugs that you can touch and feel before you purchase. Destin
Best Spa Service Best Pool Building/ Service Company
Cox Pools Coupling a wealth of experience and knowledge with great customer service, it is no surprise that Cox Pools has once again been named Emerald Coast’s best company for all things pool-related. Family owned and operated since 1958, the company earns top honors in customer satisfaction surveys year after year. Panama City Beach and Destin
Best Printing Services NEW
Image Printing & Digital Services Founded in 1986, Image Printing can fill a variety of printing needs — from banners to posters to promotional products. The final products are bound to come out seamlessly and beautifully. Mary Esther
Best Real Estate Group
John Paul Somers & Company For extensive market insight, professional versatility and a passion for helping clients, John Paul Somers & Company is Emerald Coast’s best. Whether you’re looking for a commercial property or putting your house on the market, the company’s knowledge and dedication has made it the go-to real estate expert on the coast. Destin
Serenity by the sea Serenity by the sea Spa in the Hilton Sandestin Beach resort hotel has been offering the ultimate relaxation experience on the Emerald Coast for more than 10 years. With a fullservice salon and state-of-the-art fitness center, the spa provides guests with amenities and treatments to suit every need — including separate private lounge areas for men and women. Miramar Beach
Best Specialty Fitness NEW
Pilates Lifestyle Pilates Lifestyle — formerly Pilates by the Sea — is a comprehensive wellness and Pilates studio serving the Emerald Coast. All levels of fitness are welcome to come for a total body workout. The studio offers group classes and private sessions by appointment. Offerings include Gyrotonic, Mat & Barre, Cardio Jump classes, Reiki and organic spray tanning. Santa Rosa Beach
Best Surgical Practice
Destin Plastic Surgery Ranked as one of the Best Hospitals by US News and World Report, the Surgery Center at Destin Plastic Surgery has performed over 16,000 procedures. The Center provides first-class surgical services to area residents, offering a safe, comfortable and welcoming environment. Destin
Best Rug Retailer
Rug Décor Finding the perfect floor covering to accent the style of a room can be quite a task. But at Rug Décor, that task is made easy by a superior selection and excellent service to steer you to the perfect choice for
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Best Title Company
NEW
McNeese Title With a staff that has more than 150 years of combined expertise, McNeese Title has worked in
EmeraldCoastMagazine.com
Best Photographer
NEW
Kansas Pitts It takes a true artist to capture the emotion of a moment within a still image. Whether she is preserving the serene sleep of a newborn or the sheer bliss of a couple in love, Kansas Pitts employs her skill with passion to preserve the special moments you’ll treasure for generations to come. Santa Rosa Beach
virtually every possible type of closing transaction, making it the best choice in the Emerald Coast for assistance in real estate closing, real estate law, commercial real estate transactions and more. Destin and Seagrove Beach
Best Vacation Rental Company/ Service Firm
ResortQuest by Wyndham Vacation Rentals ResortQuest’s superior accommodations and unparalleled customer service have earned it Emerald Coast’s vote once again as the Best Vacation Rental Service Firm in the area. With the largest selection of condos and vacation homes, the company promises to find you a great deal and the best vacation home to fit your needs. Destin, Fort Walton Beach and Santa Rosa Beach
Best Veterinarian
Airport Veterinary Clinic Make sure your beloved furry companions are in the most capable, loving hands. Trust is the most important thing when it comes to choosing a veterinarian, and at Airport Veterinary Clinic you can be sure your pets are going to receive star treatment. Destin
Best Wedding Planner Company
NEW
RSVP Events Locally owned and operated, RSVP has specialized in events on the Emerald Coast since 2004. With new management since 2012, the company has enhanced its inventory and services, staying ahead of the curve on all of the event industry’s latest trends — making your wedding the absolute best it can be. Destin
Best Wedding/ Reception Venue
Solaris, Sunquest Cruises Make the most of the Emerald Coast’s gorgeous beach setting with a ceremony or reception on an elegant yacht. With a full-service bridal consulting team specializing in weddings on the water, your special day is bound to be romantic, breezy and delightfully unique. Miramar Beach
Best Weight Loss Facility Dr. Bawa & Associates Take control of your body and your life with confidence. Dr. Nitin Bawa will help get you there with the most cutting-edge scientific advances, including medications, hormone adjustments and lasers. Destin, Fort Walton Beach and Santa Rosa Beach
Best of Emerald Coast
Shopping Best Antique Shop
Smith’s Antiques Mall & Interiors Market Find the perfect uniquely vintage item in this 25,000-square-foot showroom filled with antiques and interior wares. Ninety different dealers from across the country supply the mall, making it a favorite among antique lovers year after year. Miramar Beach
Best Beachwear Retailer
Photos by Scott Holstein (Best Outdoor Furniture) and courtesy Kansas Pitts (Best Photographer)
Sporty Lady of Destin If you are looking for the perfect swimsuit, go to the retailer with an inventory of about 10,000 pieces. With such a great selection and expert sizing advice, customers are sure to find a suit for any shape and size, which is what has kept Destin coming back for more than 30 years. Destin
Best Children’s Clothing Retailer
Hugs and Hissyfits The ever-changing, handpicked selection of children’s ensembles at Hugs and Hissyfits keeps the Emerald Coast’s most fashionable kids coming back for more. The wide variety of brands and styles is sure to please any budding fashionista. Destin
Best Consignment/ Resale Shop
Ava’s Attic Browse 10,000 square feet of shopping space 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, from brands like BCBG to Michael Kors, there is bound to be something for everyone. Miramar Beach
Best Eyewear Store
The Eye Gallery For any eye accessory — from fashion sunglasses to hip prescription eyewear — The Eye Gallery in Destin Commons is your destination. Shop brands that include Chanel, Loree Rodkin and Chrome Hearts to find the perfect frame for your features. The Eye Gallery is also home to the largest selection of sunglasses in the area. Destin
Best Furniture Retailer Sugar Beach Interiors For the perfect décor to suit your home, work with a team of professional licensed designers. Sugar Beach Interiors combines a reputation for business integrity with a commitment to excellence and outstanding customer service, making it your best choice when furniture shopping for any room in your home. Destin
Best Gift Shop
NEW
Design Avenue In addition to its interior design services, Destin Avenue also offers a gift shop with odds and ends for any occasion. Browse a wide variety of unique gifts and accessories, jewelry, baby shower gifts and more. With new merchandise arriving weekly, the perfect gift is just a trip away. Destin
Best Locally Owned Retailer
Sporty Lady of Destin This family-owned retailer allows women to sport the most stylish swimwear and sportswear around. Located at the Shoppes at Paradise Key, Sporty Lady of Destin is a 4,800-square-foot treasure chest for women. Always striving to please customers, the shop offers a vast selection of styles in an array of sizes to meet the needs of a variety of women. Destin
Best Wedding Shop
Simply Elegant Bridal Offering exceptional service and a large selection of bridal and bridesmaid gowns, Simply Elegant strives to make every bride feel beautiful on her special day. With the best selection of tuxedos for the groom and his groomsmen, this upscale wedding boutique is a one-stop shop for wedding apparel. Fort Walton Beach
Best Men’s Apparel
Destin Threads This resort-casual clothing boutique, located in the Shops of Destiny, has some of the finest menswear around. Owner Marsha Chouinard is a veteran of the retail industry and has scoured the country to bring the Emerald Coast quality brands such as New Island, Southern Marsh and Southern Tide, Robert Graham and more. Ladies looking for the same casual, comfortable style can shop in Destin Threads, too! Destin
Best Outdoor Furniture Retailer
Bay Breeze Patio As the authorized dealer for Lane Venture, Lloyd Flanders, Tropitone and other premium brands, Bay Breeze Patio offers the largest selection of instock outdoor furniture in town. From gas fire pits and grills to patio chairs and pottery, this outdoor furniture store will keep your deck and lawn looking fabulous. Miramar Beach
Best Jewelry Store
McCaskill and Company With some of the world’s most exclusive jewelry designers and watches, McCaskill and Company is the place to go for all things glittery and glam on the Emerald Coast. Serious collectors to more casual shoppers are graciously welcomed and are sure to find something to love among all the glittery treasures. Destin
50,000-square-foot sports center is an outdoorsman’s dream. Destin
Best Sporting Goods Retailer
Bass Pro Shops Lovers of fishing, hunting, camping and boating can find everything they need and more at Bass Pro Shops. Featuring a large selection of apparel, outdoor recreation gear and sporting equipment, this
Best Women’s Accessories
Private Gallery With a vast selection of jewelry, shoes, handbags and clothing, this eclectic boutique features well-known brands and rising designers in the fashion industry. Staying true to name, the helpful staff provides excellent customer service and gives guests the experience of a private gallery. Destin
Best Women’s Apparel
Today’s Boutique For the 13th consecutive year, the excellent customer service and large selection of the latest fashion trends has captured the hearts of locals as the Best shop for women’s apparel. Check out the store’s website and Facebook page for the latest trend report, or better yet, stop in the shop at the Shoppes of Paradise Key in Destin to get expert advice first-hand from the friendly staff. Destin
Best Women’s Shoes
Sunset Shoes As its name suggests, this awardwinning shoe shop is inspired by its location on the beautiful Emerald Coast. Comfort and easy-going style are the hallmark of the shoe collections, designer lines and Euro brands carried at the four locations of Sunset Shoes. Destin, Miramar Beach and Panama City
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the good life Food + Travel + Hea lth + Home
eudaimonia*
Photo Courtesy Sarah Clauson
Just Say the Word
Before founding Say The Word Poetry Group in March 2012, Maria Schabla had never shared her poetry via an open mic. She formed this performance group for poets and artists of all experience levels to share their creative talents with each other and the public. “It’s a very eclectic, loose-knit, grass roots organization of poets,” Schabla described. After Say The Word saw much success at Buddha Lounge on 30A for a year, Schabla introduced an open mic nearer to her home in Niceville at French Quarter Bar and Grill on the first Wednesday of every month. Since then they have performed poetry for the Arts in Medicine program at Sacred Heart Hospital on the Emerald Coast and a Poetry & Music Jam event at the Crestview Library. You can catch open mic on 30A at Grayt Grounds of Monet Monet and Redd's Fueling Station and other hip spots along 30A. Find Say the Word on Facebook to keep up with where the group will appear next. Some of the passionate poets presenting at the open mics are CD Harris, Andrea Johnson (who hosts the open mic on 30A while Schabla hosts the one in Niceville) and Josh Woeckener. Entertaining musical intermissions at the open mics have included performances by Mary Bue and Erin Jeffreys of Elyse Therose. — L. Jordan Swanson
*happiness is ...
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HGTV’s ‘House Hunters’ Hits the Emerald Coast
habitat Joseph Rogers and Deke Lee collaborated with Michael Morrow of MDM Designs in Birmingham, Ala., to reinvent their coastal condominium into a home that is both “glamorous and adventurous.”
‘House Hunters’ HGTV’s
Hits the Emerald Coast
A Local Couple Shares What It Is Like Behind the Scenes By Andi Mahoney // Photos by Tommy Crow
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e
The fabrics in the living ver wonder what it would be like to buy your house room soften the feel on HGTV’s hit show “House Hunters”? Well, meet of this area, which is a Deke Lee and Joseph Rogers, owners of the Avantplace that begs to be relaxed in. The sofa, garde Salons in Destin. The young, professional chairs and rug are couple was featured on the show on Jan. 22, 2013, and shared all in a similar color family, so gold-leaf was some insight on what it’s like behind the scenes. applied to a couple Lee and Rogers are passionate about the salons they co-own. demi-lune side tables Lee manages the business side of things, while Rogers founded for shimmer, texture and contrast. Thick the salons and is a stylist. The couple loves to travel, especially acrylic legs were added to New Orleans, where they own a second home. They have a to the custom greyed core group of friends and relish time spent around the dinner oak slab coffee table to lighten the visual table enjoying wine. “volume” of the piece, Their longtime friend and Re/Max realtor, Destin Lowery, since the sofa and chairs already have a has been selling real estate on the Emerald Coast with the Suheavy presence. sie Kirkland team for 15 years. Lowery had the opportunity to work with HGTV and “House Hunters” for the first time in 2011. Her clients at the time were looking to move to Destin from Atlanta and applied to the show on a whim. HGTV loved the idea of Destin Lowery selling real estate in Destin, and after a few video interviews it was lights, camera, action! “The network loved the first show we did in Destin and called me to see if there were any other interesting buyers willing to do the show,” said Lowery. “I was showing property to Joseph and Deke at the time and knew they would be perfect. They have great personalities and are obviously good looking guys. Plus I knew they would be doing a great renovation.” Initially the couple declined HGTV’s offer to do the show. “We told them no because we are very private people,” said Rogers. The show’s producer won them over by promising to promote their salons, and they caved. After all is said and done, Lee and Rogers admit that the “House Hunting” experience exceeded their expectations, and they recently filmed a segment of “House Hunters: Where Are They Now,” which is expected to air in December 2013 or January 2014.
Behind the Scenes
Everybody knows that a little drama makes good television, and that is exactly what the producers of “House Hunters” are looking for. Lee was interested in a condominium with an ocean view, while Rogers preferred the privacy and space of a single-family home. “The producers want the couple to disagree on their likes and dislikes,” said Lowery. “This way you don’t know which property they’re going to pick, and it keeps the viewer guessing.”
The three homes Lee and Rogers viewed on-air were the only properties they looked at. They looked at a condominium in Silver Shells Beach Resort, a single-family home in Regatta Bay and a condominium in One Water Place in Kelley Plantation. “Coming from the perfect house, we were extremely picky in what we would look at,” said Lee. “It was very easy to take things off our list.” The on-site “House Hunters” crew consisted of one producer, one cameraman and one sound technician. Filming involved of four eight-to nine-hour days, plus an additional day to film the finale. “The first few hours of filming were nerve-racking, but then we loved it,” said Rogers. If Lee or Rogers said something the producer liked she would have them repeat it several times so they could shoot it from different angles and sometimes rephrase the comment to add more pizzazz. “When we were viewing the condo in One Water Place I said, ‘I don’t care for the floors.’ Immediately I hear, ‘Cut!’” said Rogers. “The producer had me say, ‘I hate the floors,’ and that is what’s on-air!” After a while the couple would forget that they were filming, which according to Rogers was a good and bad thing. “The funny part is that you forget you are hooked up to a mic,” said Rogers. “So even when you are not in the same room as the crew they can hear you.” Lee and Rogers were outside discussing a property, and Rogers commented on how the producer would not like a scene. “When we came back inside the producer let us know we were right and that she would not like the scene,” said Lee. “Then she reminded us we were EmeraldCoastMagazine.com October–November 2013
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habitat
still hooked up to our mics. I now understand how people say such crazy things on TV. After a while you get immune to it.” As for what shots made the final cut, Lee and Rogers had to wait and see when the show aired. “We don’t get to see the show until it comes out, so we have no idea how they will cut and edit the program until it’s live television,” said Lowery.
Home Sweet Home
After viewing all three properties and weighing the benefits of a single-family home versus a condominium the couple made their decision. “Joseph’s main concern was downsizing, but the condo in One Water Place was spacious and offered 2,649 square feet,” said Lee. “Joseph walked in and fell in love, and the condo Removing a wall and sold itself.” choosing light paint Lee and Rogers got the condocolors opened up the kitchen (top) creating minium in One Water Place for a “welcoming get$500,000 in a short sale, coming in together feel” that is sleek yet functional. $150,000 under their budget and The rich, natural wood leaving plenty for renovations. tones provide high Both Lee and Rogers wanted to contrast to the flash of the fixtures and customize the space to fit their furniture. The lighting specific tastes. and mirrors brighten When HGTV filmed the finale the dining room (middle), which began they were knee deep in construcas a slightly cavernous tion. “After our show aired, there space awkwardly divided by columns. was a huge influx of questions An ebony dining room from viewers asking to see the fitable with a chrome nal product,” said Lee. steel base anchors the room for a stunning The episode of “House Huntlook. Deke Lee ers: Where Are They Now” will designed the office reveal the couple’s final design. (bottom) as a stylish sanctuary, where he Lee and Rogers worked with can enjoy his Ron Porter, custom homebuilder morning coffee, while taking care of the at Regal Stephens in Santa Rosa matters of the day. Beach, Katie Powell at Beautiful Lights in Destin, Mary Ezell at Fixture Exchange, Misty Fowler at Antiques on Holiday as well as custom furniture and cabinet maker Michael Morrow with MDM Design Studio in Birmingham to reinvent their space. “There was a little tweaking to get the space as close to white box as possible, then we put our heads together and came up with a concept,” said Morrow. “As much as I would like to take all the credit, they had the vision for the space and I was the catalyst that made it happen.” Morrow describes the couple’s style as sexy-comfortablechic. The renovations involved new floors, a complete kitchen overhaul that boasts an enormous slab of marble and the removal of a wall to open up the space. Morrow notes that while the couple uses bold modern elements, they are paired with warm features like wood that provide the contrast the space needs to feel like home. “Condo living has been wonderful for us, especially with all the traveling we do,” said Rogers. The couple admits that there have been only minor lifestyle adjustments to condominium living, like the inconvenience of leaving your phone in the car. “The biggest surprise about this experience is how people recognize you after the show airs,” said Lee. “We were recently flying from Fort Lauderdale to Atlanta and overheard a family say ‘Look! Those are the guys from HGTV.’” To view the “House Hunters” episode featuring Lee and Rogers visit www.susiekirkland.com and click on blog. ec 94 October–November 2013
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SHOW ME THE $
The Masterpiece on the Bay
All statistics listed below pertain to sales in June 2013, and are provided by the Emerald Coast Association of Realtors, Florida Realtor and the National Association of Realtors.
By Zandra Wolfgram
LOCAL
Kelly Plantation Fulfills an Artful Family Legacy Dream
Okaloosa County closed 265 singlefamily home sales — 55 of which were paid in cash. 193 were traditional sales, 36 were foreclosures and 36 were short sales. On average, Walton County’s closed townhouse and condo sales received 91.3% of their original list price.
STATE
U
nlike many communities along Florida’s Emerald Coast, Kelly Plantation is land that enjoys a long and proud history as the homestead of one of Destin’s most influential founding families. It’s here where they first put down roots, forayed into business ventures and began a lasting family legacy. In 1935, Mattie, a native Floridian, and her husband, Coleman Lee Kelly, moved to Destin with their five children. As one of the town’s founding families, they purchased acres of pristine forest along Choctawhatchee Bay and what is now Destin Harbor. Though they began as turpentine farmers, Mattie and Coleman soon established themselves as prominent local business owners and philanthropists, and they are widely credited with pioneering Destin’s tourism and fishing industries. Mattie Kelly was a lifelong patron of the arts, supporting arts organizations through her participation and financial gifts. Today, the Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation and the Mattie Kelly Arts Center continue to keep her passion for the arts alive. The Masterpiece on the Bay Kelly Plantation, which is situated between Jones Bayou to the east and Indian Bayou to the west, is respectfully referred to as “The Masterpiece on
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the Bay.” Perhaps as a nod to Mattie Kelly’s lifelong support of the arts, but also for its thoughtful planning and design. This exclusive, gated community is nestled on 900 pristine acres along the scenic shores of the Choctawhatchee Bay. The land is lushly forested with wetlands and marshes teeming with wildlife and numerous bird species. When Mattie Kelly closed the family’s turpentine facility, she vowed not to sell the land until she was presented with a well-conceived plan. Apparently Davage “Buddy” Runnels’ vision for the land did what hundreds of other wishful thinkers could not, and in 1991 construction of Kelly Plantation began. Matriarch Kelly remained heavily involved in planning the community until her death in 1992. Kelly Plantation was designed to preserve its stunning nature while keeping family life in mind. Within its nine neighborhoods are a number of green spaces filled with parks, scenic walking and jogging trails — including a 250-acre nature preserve. At the center of the community is the Kelly Plantation Golf Clubhouse and Grill, which offers casual dining and an attractive venue available to owners for private events, and, of course, an 18hold championship golf course designed by Fred Couples and Gene Bates. It boasts 7,000 yards of carefully manicured Bermuda cont. on pg. 101
Florida closed 9,136 townhouse and condo sales — 6,359 of which were paid in cash. 6,699 were traditional sales, 1,402 were foreclosures and 1,035 were short sales.
National
The national median existing-home price for all housing types was $214,200 — 13.5% higher than a year before. The national median time on the market for all homes was 37 days.
Photo by Scott holstein
POOL
The median sale price for single family homes in Florida was $175,000 — a 15.1% increase over last June.
Matt Williams, Realtor®
Southern Realty
ABOVE THE CROWD #1 Individual in Closed Sales Volume, Transactions and Listings For 2012!
Matthew W. Williams, REALTOR®
(850) 259-MATT (6288)
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A Relaxing Retreat Awaits in Seabreeze
O
By Laura Bradley
ften, beachside living to the beach, but it also has a involves loud, busy fenced, private, wooded yard Quick Look streets and a high denwith an in-ground covered pool List Price: $575,000 ($191.35/sq ft) sity of rental properand patio,” Green points out. Square Feet: 3,005 ties. For this house in Seabreeze, Front and back staircases alBedrooms: 4 built in 1995, this is not the case; low easy access to the home Bathrooms: 3.5 the quiet neighborhood setting lowhether one approaches from Contact: Diane cated steps away from Alys Beach the street or the beach, and two Green, NewmanDailey Resort lets residents in this home enjoy living areas on the main floor alProperties Inc., (850) the best of both worlds. low plenty of space to entertain. 837-1071, diane@30A“It’s a minute’s walk to the beach, The formal living/dining room luxuryrealestate.com yet it’s a private, quiet neighboris spacious and filled with natuhood,” notes Diane Green, listing agent with ral light, while the amply sized family room Newman-Dailey Resort Properties Inc. features a fireplace, a great view of the patio Unlike many properties near the beach, and opens to the updated kitchen with granite Green adds that this home would make a countertops and the breakfast room. good primary or secondary home as it is not According to Green, the house’s layout in an overwhelmingly rental-oriented neighmakes it the perfect setting for social gatherborhood. And, in addition to the beach, this ings large and small. “The home flows perfecthome features a private outdoor living space ly for entertaining, with all rooms cohesively all its own — with a heated pool. connected and viewing the breathtaking heated “What I like best about it is you can walk in-ground pool and patio area,” she explained.
139 Seabreeze Ct.
The master suite is also on the main floor, with the three remaining bedrooms above — lending the master suite more privacy. This secluded suite enjoys a spacious bathroom with a huge tub and a great walk-in closet. After long days at the beach, or scintillating evening parties lasting late into the evening, homeowners will rejoice in having this calm, comfortable retreat. ec
Dedicated to Luxury y Real Estate Regatta Bay John Cook
98 October–November 2013
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Photos by Scott holstein (Just Sold) and Panoramas in Paradise,panoramasinparadise.com (Just Listed)
The Perfect Home for Social Gatherings
DEAL Estate
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Staging Sells Home in One Week By Laura Bradley
L
ocated across from the community apartment is fully handicap accessible, pool in Hidden Harbor Estates, the main house’s layout has multiple levnear to the beach and the bay in els, making it inaccessible. Although the Miramar Beach, this home had lohouse has plenty of square footage, the cation on its side. But an abnormal design fact that it has only two bedrooms in the and two-bedroom layout, along with poor main house — and no garage — provided staging, provided roadblocks further obstacles in selling the that kept the home on the marproperty. The second bedket for over a year — 426 days, room is also upstairs — too Quick Look: in total. Eventually, however, far away for young children. List Price: $276,000 the house found the perfect Although Egstad advised the ($115/sqft) family to call it home. sellers to stage the property, Sold For: $262,000 Listing agent Lisa Egstad the couple chose not to do so ($109.17/sqft) with Real Estate International — a decision that, according Square Feet: 2,400 Inc. says that the buyers loved to Egstad, kept the house on Bedrooms: 3 Bathrooms: 3.5 the house’s architectural style. the market longer. “They vacation in Mexico “The house had no consisa lot, and there’s some things about the tent style,” says Egstad, explaining that the house’s architecture that reminded them couple had recently merged two houseof Mexico,” she explains. “They also had holds into one. … two big dogs, so they wanted someAdditionally, clutter was a big issue, thing with tiled floors.” especially in the kitchen. When she first The house is divided into a main house started work on the listing, Egstad advised and mother-in-law apartment. While the the couple to convert the upstairs bonus
64 Hidden Harbor Ln. room into a bedroom by adding a closet, which the couple agreed to do — turning the previously two-bedroom house into a three-bedroom house. Despite several drawbacks, the house had some great upgrades. Some great features were high ceilings, an open floor plan, built-in’s, and a two-way fireplace, a spa tub, an air-conditioned shed and more. Eventually the sellers moved out. After that, Egstad says the sale was a cinch. And after staging, the house was only on the market for about a week before the buyers came to see it and fell in love. ec
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▪ The Market Shops at Sandestin is getting a major facelift. Owner OBP Partners of Miami has begun a revitalization effort, transforming the resort shopping area into a dining, shopping and entertainment center with an intimate neighborhood atmosphere. Renovations are slated to begin in October and the project should be complete in January 2014, according to Ian Schenkman, principal of OBP. “There won’t be too many structural changes, but we will renovate the facade, create additional storefronts that face Highway 98, add stone elements and a new color palate to update the look. We will also improve the inner courtyard areas to create a nice dining atmosphere that’s conducive for events and gatherings,” he explains. Tenants will be neighborhood-oriented, with no outlets or big box stores, Schenkman adds. There are also plans for a farmer’s market on days that alternate with other area markets. Nearby Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort and Sandestin Real Estate, which has been a tenant in the Market Shops since the mid-1980s, are looking forward to the project’s completion with great anticipation. “We are very excited about the planned renovations and look forward to working with OBP as they develop quality options for our community,” says Kitty Whitney, executive director of Sandestin Real Estate. ▪ Trending: In the first half of 2013 compared to the last half of 2012, the ratio of the sales price versus the list price has narrowed in commercial sales, according to Gordon MacLean, managing broker for NWF Realty Inc. MacLean points out that while the ratio was approximately 71 percent in the latter half of 2012, meaning properties were selling for roughly 71 percent of their list price, that gap narrowed to roughly 89 percent in the first half of 2013. “The ratio is one indication of how correctly the market participants perceive the value of the properties that are trading hands,” explains MacLean. “As the market continues to work through the remaining distressed properties in our area, we should expect to see a more balanced market wherein the ratio of sales price to list price falls to 10 percent or below.” ▪ The push to make Pensacola a site of fast-paced economic development has gotten another shot in the arm from the Greater Pensacola Chamber of Commerce. The chamber launched ChooseGreaterPensacola.com, a best-in-class interactive portal designed to show off Greater Pensacola’s workforce and real estate assets.
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▪ A new resort is moving into Rosemary Beach with phase one slated for completion by summer of 2014. The Inn on the Gulf promises to bring an edgy aesthetic inspired by resorts in Miami to the 30A corridor and will be the “greenest, most environmentally-friendly hotel in the Panhandle,” according to Mark Humphreys, CEO of Humphreys & Partners Architects, one of the leaders of this new development. The resort will consist of three four-story buildings, with one- to three-bedroom units ranging from 460 to 2,118 square feet. Each room will have a kitchen, and the resort will house a restaurant in addition to a rooftop deck, bars and several swimming pools.
Rendering courtesy DC Architects; Photos By Scott Holstein
Pensacola/Ft. Walton Beach
cont. from pg. 96
greens along the bay and is dotted with lake and pond water features. The private Owner’s Club is filled with still more amenities, including a beautiful swimming pool, five illuminated tennis courts, fitness area and convenient recreation spaces. Kelly is located near to Destin Commons, Fresh Market and Publix grocery stores, health and fitness studios, and is just a five-minute drive to the beach. One Water Place
Golf course
Distinctly Different Kelly Plantation has nine distinct neighborhoods, each offering something different. With a range of price points from a three-bedroom, 2,881 square-foot custom home on Mattie’s Way that is situated on the nature preserve and listed at $425,000 to a stately waterfront estate home on Old Plantation Place priced at $3,495,00, there is nearly something for everyone looking for a life of exclusive luxury in Destin. Carriage Place: Upkeep-free single-family homes located right on the fairway. Club Commons: Single-family homes only a walk across the street from the golf club and Owner’s Club. One Water Place: The place to go for
Kelly Plantation condominiums, featuring views of Choctawhatchee Bay and the golf course. Plantation: Single-family homes situated on beautiful natural features, from nature preserves to a 7-acre freshwater lake. Plantation Cove: Large, private waterfront home sites. Plantation Drive: Single-family homes that are located next to the golf course. Plantation Place: A developing neighborhood with home sites only a few minutes away from the Kelly Plantation clubs. Stonebridge I & II: Home sites for future golf homes with views of the golf course and local features, such as parks, lakes and the nature preserve. Waterford: These ideal 1- to 3-acre estate sites are all located on waterfront. Whether you are interested in buying or building in Kelly Plantation, you can rest assured that meticulous care has been put into crafting stringent architectural guidelines and covenants to preserve the aesthetics and highest quality standards as the community grows and evolves. After 22 years, the community still does not leave any detail to chance and can even provide new owners a current list of vetted builders and landscapers as well as a list of approved trees, plants and shrubs. ec
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Quitters Always Win Tips to help make the decision to quit smoking permanent
i
t’s been proven over and over again: Smoking is an addiction that is extremely harmful to your health. Smokers run two to four times the risk of heart disease or stroke compared to non-smokers. And male smokers are 23 times more likely to incur lung cancer. But quitting is not as easy as it sounds — especially for those who have smoked heavily for a long time. Cigarettes weave their way into our brain chemistry, habits and social interactions. Between the withdrawal and countless associations that can trigger a relapse, it’s no wonder it usually takes seven to eight attempts to quit successfully. Fortunately, quitters today have more tools and knowledge at their disposal than ever. The first step to quitting successfully is to acknowledge the addiction, according to Penny Eubanks, assistant director of the West Florida Area Health Education Center (AHEC). “It’s an addiction, not a habit,” she says firmly. Additionally, it’s important to be ready and committed to quit. Pulmonologist Dr. John C. Chaney with White-Wilson Medical Center advises, “The patient has to have decided in their mind that they’re ready to quit. Because of the strength of the addiction, the person has to be really committed.” Once the decision has been made, the key is to develop a plan and gather the appropriate resources. At the outset, Chaney suggests removing all ashtrays, cigarettes and cigarette butts from the house. Additionally, he points out that thoroughly cleaning to remove the smell of smoke from the house, and even rearranging the furniture for a fresh start, can be very helpful. After getting rid of any cigarettes and associated accoutrements in the house, it’s all about the game plan. Eubanks explained that the West Florida AHEC employs a combination of counseling and nicotine replacement therapy. “One of the things that our program really stresses
By Laura Bradley
is the group counseling,” she explains. “You have that camaraderie of people in the same situation. They get support from each other.” The nicotine replacement therapy helps quitters by alleviating the physical addiction, supplying nicotine through things like gum and patches. E-cigarettes are one of the newer nicotine replacement therapy options, and Chaney emphasized their utility, as they allow smokers to mimic smoking without ingesting any harmful substances. The familiarity of the action for the hands, especially, Chaney points out, can make a huge difference. The psychological component of smoking addiction can be just as difficult to overcome as the physical withdrawal. “When I’m consulting my patients about quitting, we always talk about those two (components) independently,” Chaney notes. The hardest part of quitting can often be navigating a world full of situations associated with smoking. Waking up, driving, going out in the evening … any situation once associated with smoking can become a trigger. “It’s hard to do those things without the desire to smoke,” Chaney admits. Half the battle is often won by avoiding those situations or coming up with a plan to manage the urge to smoke when encountering them. Eubanks added, “You need to put yourself in situations where you can manage your addiction. You may just have to avoid things sometimes.” For this reason, AHEC provides additional support, helping quitters work on stress management (as smoking is often used as a source of stress relief or sometimes even self-medication), good nutrition to support the body as it acclimates and additional counseling to see what other lifestyle changes might be helpful. The most crucial thing to remember is to stay positive, approaching each day optimistically. “Concentrate on the good things that are happening — not your loss,” advises Eubanks. ec
Your Quitting Arsenal November 15 is the 37th annual Great American Smokeout. Here are some suggested weapons of choice in one of the few fights that has us rooting for the quitter. ▪ Nicotine replacement treatments like gum and patches help quell the withdrawal without having to smoke. ▪ E-cigarettes mimic the experience of smoking, but with water vapor instead of smoke. ▪ Flavored toothpicks — and especially cinnamon sticks — are two popular tools for those who miss the familiar oral action of smoking. Cinnamon sticks even allow quitters to inhale through them. ▪ Chantix is a nonnicotine prescription medicine specifically developed to help adults 18 and over quit smoking. ▪ A stress ball can help release tension and allows quitters to keep their hands busy. ▪ A piggy bank (or just a money jar) is a great way to keep track of the money saved by not smoking; treat yourself to small rewards with the money you save.
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A Din of Daffodils Fall brings beautiful bulbs for North Florida
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Ms. Grow-It-All
By Audrey Post
Ms. Grow-It-All
Q: I have had little luck with daffodils and no luck at all with tulips. I even chilled my bulbs in the refrigerator before planting, and they failed to bloom. I give up. What other bulbs will do well here? A: Don’t be too hasty. Lots of bulbs will do well in the Florida Panhandle’s Emerald Coast region, including daffodils — you just have to make sure you’re growing the right kind of daffodils and treating them properly for our climate. We’re in the Southeast’s USDA Zone 8b, which stretches along the Gulf Coast from Texas to Florida’s Big Bend, across the upper Florida Peninsula to Jacksonville, and up the Atlantic Coast to just south of Charleston, S.C. While certain kinds of daffodils can handle our mild winters and hot summers, tulips simply cannot. If you want tulips, consider them annuals and replant every fall. You were correct that tulips for the Deep South need time in the refrigerator before planting, about 60 days at 40 degrees, according to the University of Florida’s Extension Service. But make sure you keep them away from ripening fruit, which gives off an ethylene gas that can
kill the flower buds. Some gardeners have a separate fridge for gardening needs, which is handy for pre-chilling bulbs as well as beverages. Nurseries sometimes sell pre-chilled tulip bulbs, which can be planted immediately, but never chill your daffodil bulbs; it damages them and can prevent blooming, according to the Florida Daffodil Society. Labels can get us into trouble with many plants, so it’s good to clarify terms before we start shopping. What’s the difference between a daffodil and a narcissus? How do they differ from a jonquil? According to the Florida Daffodil Society, there really is no difference. Historically, gardeners in the Coastal South used “daffodil” to describe large daffodil flowers “jonquil” for small daffodil flowers and “narcissus” for daffodils with flower clusters on a single stem, according to its website. Furthermore, “daffodil” is the common name for flowers in the genus Narcissus, which is the Latin botanical name for all daffodils. A “jonquil,” the site explains, is “a hybrid daffodil descended from the fragrant species daffodil Narcissus jonquilla.” Nonetheless, you’ll find other gardening sources that say narcissus grows well
®
in Zone 8b, but true daffodils don’t. Don’t get overwrought about taxonomy; help is available. The late John Van Beck spent years growing daffodils, both commercially available ones and historic varieties “rescued” from old home sites, meticulously documenting both successes and failures. One of the founders of the Florida Daffodil Society, he and his colleagues created three daffodil trial gardens in Tallahassee in 1994 and eventually ended up with just the one at his home. After his death in 2001, his wife and research partner, Linda Van Beck, and daughter, Sara Van Beck, published his results in “Daffodils in Florida: A Field Guide to the Coastal South.” If you’re serious about growing daffodils, this book is a great addition to your garden library. It contains lists of daffodils rated “satisfactory,” meaning they survived four years in the trial gardens, as well as suggestions for companion plants. It also details research that had been conducted up to the book’s publication, in 2004, into growing daffodils in Central Florida. Some of the more popular large daffodils that do well here are Carlton, Barrett
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Browning and Ice Follies. RecIn addition to daffodils, other ommended medium-sized dafbulb-type plants (bulbs, rhizomes, corms and tubers) fodils include Sweetness (which, are recommended for North as its name implies, has a lovely Florida by the University of fragrance), Thalia and TreviFlorida’s Extension Service thian. Other categories listed in and other area gardeners: the book are small-flowered dafAfrican iris (Morea) fodils, miniature daffodils and small-flower clusters, including Amaryllis the Paper White Narcissus ofButterfly lily (Hedychium) ten forced for indoor blooming Caladium during winter holidays. I have Calla lilies (Zantedeschia) Carlton, Ice Follies, Sweetness Canna lilies and Trevithian in my garden, and they do well. Plan to dig Crinum lilies and separate every three or four Day lilies (Hemerocallis) years, or they’ll stop blooming. Elephant ears There’s a much longer list (Alocasia, Calocasia) of daffodils that didn’t make it Philippine lily (Lilium candidum) in the trial gardens, so you can Gladiolus check it against selections in Gloriosa lily your mail-order catalogue and avoid wasting time and money. Hurricane lily (Lycoris) The best time to plant daffoIris dils in our region is in October or Kaffir lily (Clivia) November, and the best locations Lily of the Nile (Agapanthus) get six hours of full sun a day or Louisiana iris have high, filtered shade. Make sure the area has good drainage Shell ginger/shell lily or your bulbs will rot. Don’t make (Alpinia zerumbet) the soil too rich, either; daffodils Snowflake (Leucojum) prefer sandy loam. Plant your Society garlic (Tulbaghia violacea) bulbs two to three times deeper Spider lily (Hymenocallis) than the size of the bulb. If you Tiger lily (Lilium lancifolium) have a 2-inch bulb, plant it 4 to 6 inches deep. Planting four or five Tuberose (Polianthes tuberosa) bulbs per square foot gives them Zephyr lily (Zephyranthes) room to grow and multiply while still creating a lush look. If you have trouble with squirrels digging up your bulbs, as many of us do, wrap them in chicken wire with the nose, or pointy end, toward one of the wire’s openings. Water well after planting and during growing season, but withhold water after they bloom. Don’t cut back the foliage after it flowers, because it’s creating food for next year’s bloom as it fades. If you have a sprinkler system, turn off the heads that cover your daffodils to keep them from rotting over the summer. Using a micro-irrigation system is one way to target the water where you want it, particularly if you interplant with perennials. A 2- to 3-inch layer of mulch will keep the bulbs cool during the heat of summer. A word of caution: While there are many daffodils that can handle our heat, none can stand salt, so they’re not a good selection for the beach. They’ll do fine slightly farther inland, though. Unlike daffodils grown in more northern areas, Southern daffodils have a long blooming season, with very early ones beginning to bloom in November and late-blooming varieties putting on a show in late March and early April. With careful planning, you can have daffodils blooming for months. ec ©2013 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.
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Hungry for
Something New? These Offbeat Dining Spots are Deliciously Different By Zandra Wolfgram // Photos by Scott Holstein
t
he Emerald Coast is known for dishing up delicious dining spots, but going to the same restaurant time after time can sour even the sweetest of date nights. A business lunch needs to be convenient, but who says it can’t be fun? If you say a prayer before you try a new lunch locale, you’ll surely think this spot is heaven sent. Before you say, “That’s a fork load,” tuck into these three unexpected places, and you’ll find great food, friendly service and a refreshingly different atmosphere each its own.
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The Oscar Goes to The Ovation Club
As Vesper Lynd says to James Bond in “Casino Royale,” “There are dinner jackets, and then there are dinner jackets. This is the latter.” It has us thinking that there are dinner-and-a-movie dates and there are dinner-and-a-movie dates, and Carmike Cinema’s Ovation Room in Grand Boulevard is serving up the latter. The “VIP” Ovation Club, located within the 10-cinema screen complex, seats just over 100 patrons. It is open only to those 21 and over and has everything you need to
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Entrees such as Seared Scallops with Grilled Polenta topped with Micro Greens and garnished with Basil Oil and Red Pepper drizzle (at top) paired with a crisp chardonnay have a starring role at the Ovation Club in Grand Boulevard, where you and your date can ease back into over-sized leather dining chairs and enjoy VIP service … oh yeah, and a movie, too.
snuggle up to your sweet someone on a romantic date. Cue the mood-setting lighting, and slide into the arms of an oversized leather dining chair. While you wait for your movie selection to roll across the Big D screen, the touch of a button beckons your personal server ready to take your order. The Ovation Club menu features appetizers, pizza, sandwiches and dessert items along with soft drinks, beer and wine selection, and, of course, bottomless buttered popcorn! The menu is available daily a half hour before each movie selection from about 11 a.m. until the last showing. We’re pretty sure a starter of Seared Scallops and Grilled Polenta served with silver flatware and linen napkins paired with a glass of premium wine makes any movie night feel like you are taking your date to a red carpet affair. Ashley Rudolph, a 23-year-old Ovation Club server from DeFuniak Springs, had some understandable opening night jitters. “At first it was awkward, because you have to adjust to the dark, but you adapt to it.” With her neat brunette chignon and black-aproned uniform, Rudolph would look at home in any fine dining restaurant, and she Head to Cabana Café aims to please her VIPs, even if it is inside Hurricane Lanes in Destin for serious counter intuitive. “I’m not used to not comfort food like disturbing customers as a server, but stone-fired, handI’ve gotten used to it,” she says. tossed pepperoni pizza, build-your-own Weekends and rainy days are busiest gourmet burgers and at the Ovation Club, which means their famous Fried there will likely be a run on Chicken Green Tomatoes.
Pesto Pizza, Smoked Turkey Paninis and Steak Sliders for Chef Jason Irvy. “The customers are always amazed. They say ‘This isn’t what we expected’ and ‘The only thing missing is a recliner,’” Rudolph tells. That’s exactly what Ivan and Sue Samuels of Santa Rosa Beach thought when they came to Carmike Cinemas to duck out of the heat on a warm June day to catch “Man of Steel,” only to find the theater contained a full-service restaurant and a waiter on call. They ordered a pizza and drinks and settled in for a “super” evening. “It’s a nice idea. It’s very comfortable and something different,” Ivan Samuels says. Different indeed. In fact, the Ovation Club at Grand Boulevard is only the second of its kind for Carmike Cinemas — whose Big D cinemas are named so for featuring bigger digital screens, bigger sound and bigger seats. The first is located in Chattanooga, Tenn. The steady stream of couples and groups of friends both local and visiting suggest this Big D experience is a big hit. “We are seeing people coming to celebrate anniversaries and birthdays,” Rudolph says. “Some people order dessert first or sometimes only dessert. The Chocolate Molten Lava Cake is the most popular — even with the servers!” Good to know that as dinnerand-a-movie nights go, you can have your cake and eat it, too.
Bowled Over by Cabana Café at Hurricane Lanes
Restaurateur Wayne Anderson strikes again. At 15, Anderson got dishwater in his blood while busing, and after four years in
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the United States Air Force as a civil engineer he settled on the Emerald Coast and worked his way up from a valet at the busiest joint in town — Harry T’s. That was the late ’80s, and he’s been in the restaurant business ever since. Hardworking in and out of the kitchen, Anderson, 47, is a tanned, trim triathlete, whose goal is to complete a full Iron Man. “When I set out to do something, it’s done,” he says. The same could be said for his business ideas. His first dining venture was Wayne’s Dogs, a floating hot dog stand that doused Crab Island cravings in the early ’90s. After serving as the general manager for Lucky Snapper for seven years, he opened his own place, Cabana Café located in Aerial Dunes within Seascape Golf, Tennis & Beach Resort in Miramar Beach. Lil’ Cabana Beach Bar on Scenic Gulf Drive followed, and just a few months ago he revved up a roving restaurant called the Cabana Fire Company, which serves hot dogs, chips and cold drinks at events and festivals. And then there is Cabana Café catering. “We do parties, weddings, Bar Mitzvahs … we’ve even done a funeral,” Anderson says. Anderson is on a restaurant roll, so in February when he was asked to open a Cabana Café inside Hurricane Lanes Bowling Alley in Destin he said it was “a no brainer.” All of the food ingredients are delivered from the main Cabana restaurant and prepared fresh on site each day. But menu offerings such as First Frames, Burger Alley and Little Leaguers remind you where you are dining. Though the small kitchen requires several runs a day to deliver a menu of Anderson’s standards, he is happy to do it. “To bring good food to a family-friendly bowling alley is fun to do,” he says. Cabana Café at Hurricane Lanes is open daily from 11 a.m. to 2 a.m. There are a few tall tables to sit at with a view of the bowling alley action and many more inside Rupert’s Billards & Blues Sports Bar, also located inside the bowling alley. Or you can place your order for popular favorites such as stone-fired Cordon Bleu Pizza, Fried Green BLT Sandwiches and Homemade Potato Chips with Cilantro Dip and have it served right to the table of your assigned lane. The café is low on frills. A bell sits on the walk-up counter to ring for service, and condiments are self serve, but the wait service like that of Davis Posey is eager and efficient. After moving to the area from Memphis, Posey became fast friends with the staff at the Cabana Café bar in Miramar Beach. In December she was hired on to the Cabana crew as a beach bartender, server and office assistant. “I really met all of my friends here,” she says, “Cabana is our Cheers.” Though modest and laid back, after nearly two decades in the culinary world, Anderson is proud to take some due credit. “In real estate they say ‘location, location, location.’ For restaurants I say operator, operator, operator.” Anderson credits his longtime success to hard work, good employees and quality food made with the freshest ingredients possible. “Everything is homemade. There are no microwaves at all in my restaurant. No can to the pan and no freezer to the fryer,” he quips. The Cabana Café at Hurricane Lanes is a bit nostalgic for Anderson. “My parents bowled when I was a kid, my dad worked in a bowling alley for a time and my twin brother, Wade, is a pro bowler, so I feel like I’ve come full circle,” he says. To that and our next bowling alley bite we say, game on!
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Grilled Chicken Flatbread with Garlic Lime sauce, Goat Cheese and Spring Greens is a delicious mainstay on the menu at the Fireside Café located inside the main level of Destiny Worship Center; Chef Max Hornsby is “fired up” to prepare fresh, affordable fare four days a week; locals of all ages flock to the aptly named Fireside Café.
A Prayer Answered With Fireside Café at Destiny Worship Center
When you think of dining at a church for lunch, you might picture sitting down to a six-foot folding table to eat lunch off of a plastic cafeteria tray with compartments to separate your cold canned peas from your carrots. Thanks to the culinary talents of Georgia-born Chef Max Hornsby, the Fireside Café at Destiny Worship Center is a prayer answered for those looking for a healthy, affordable, tasty lunch in Destin. After working in the Atlanta and Dallas culinary scenes, Hornsby relocated to the area in 2002 and began logging late hours cooking in many of the Emerald Coast’s high-end restaurants over the next 10 years. Looking to connect to the community, he joined the Destiny Worship Center congregation and volunteered to help his church with food at events and meals for the church staff. The Fireside Café, located in the lobby of the church, was first meant for the congregation and staff, but it became so successful Pastor Steve Vaggalis decided to open it up to the public in 2010 and asked Hornsby to oversee it. “The pastor is amazing, and he strives for excellence in all he does, so it’s an honor to work for him,” says Hornsby. Three years later and the cozy fireside café, open Tuesdays through Fridays from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m., is still going strong. The restaurant is a service, and so it’s priced to be affordable with most menu items just $5. What profit it does make is donated to the church’s mission programs. The café serves breakfast, lunch and espresso-based coffee drinks to a steady stream of about 150 people each day seated at both dining and counter-height tables in the lobby awash
with light from floor to ceiling windows. Due to demand, plans are in the works to expand the café by adding a second level to offer even more seating. Not only does the café allow Hornsby to showcase his passion for Mediterranean and Pacific Rim fusion cuisine, but with four kids under 9 years old, the reasonable restaurant hours afford this family man quality time to spend with his wife and kids — a luxury not many chefs are able to enjoy. Breaking bread at this church is clearly something the leadership strives to make comfortable for all. “The atmosphere and culture within the church is to create a sense of community,” Hornsby says. “We want the Fireside Café to be inviting and for people to enjoy fellowship whether they are members or not.” The food is fresh, and the atmosphere is casual. A chalkboard menu includes a half dozen or more soups, salads and sandwiches, including a different special each day. The Grilled Chicken Flatbread with Goat Cheese and Spring Mix and the Oven Roasted Turkey Panini with Smoked Gouda are the top sellers on the menu. If you cannot decide, you can pair a half sandwich with your choice of soup or salad for a little of each. Some ingredients, such as the basil in the Tzatziki sauce, are plucked fresh from Hornsby’s herb garden located on site at the church. “It’s something different you don’t find every day. We try to take good food and kick it up a notch,” Hornsby says. And (at the time of our interview) Hornsby was planning to heat up the menu at Fireside with barbecued meats hot off his brand new smoker. In addition to operating the Fireside Café, Hornsby finds time to consult with other business owners who come to him to whip their kitchens into shape. Still, this foodie isn’t at all phased by the hard work and commitment required in the restaurant business that lured him at the tender age of 15. In fact, he says it’s probably “a touch of OCD” that has made him a passionate worker all his life. “I’m an all-in type of guy,” he says. “It’s how I try to live my life, and be in my marriage and with my kids.” Amen to that. ec
Cabana Café at Hurricane Lanes 34876 Emerald Coast Pkwy Destin (850) 424-3574 Daily 11 a.m.–2 a.m. Fireside Café Destiny Worship Center 122 Poinciana Blvd Destin (850) 650-6800 Tuesday–Friday, 7 a.m.–2 p.m. The Ovation Club Carmike Cinemas Boulevard 10 Grand Boulevard at Sandestin 465 Grand Blvd. (850) 460-3288 Open daily, from around 11 a.m. Order dinner 30 minutes before show time
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SHALIMAR
1259 EGLIN PARKWAY (850) 613-6120
MIRAMAR BEACH 11225 US HWY 98 (850) 460-2728
“LIVE LONGER, EAT LIKE THE GREEKS”
BREAKFAST LUNCH DINNER FULL BAR DRINK SPECIALS GREEK FOOD DAILY SPECIALS AEGEANFL.COM
dining Alys Beach George’s at Alys Beach American. Seafood, burgers and sandwiches at the perfect beachy-casual spot. Open daily 11 a.m.–3 p.m. and 5–9 p.m. 30 Castle Harbour Dr., 850-641-0017. $$ l d
Blue Mountain Beach
The Key The restaurants that appear in this guide are included as a service to readers and not as recommendations of the EC Magazine editorial department, except where noted. ★ b l d
Best of the Emerald Coast 2013 Winner Breakfast Lunch Dinner Outdoor Dining Live Music
$ $$
Inexpensive Moderately Expensive $$$ Expensive
Grecian Gardens Restaurant Mediterranean. Traditional Greek cuisine served in an open-air atmosphere perfect for special occasions or parties. Open daily 11 a.m.–9 p.m. 3375 W. Hwy. 30A, 850-267-3011. $$ l d Marie's Bistro & Bar Mediterranean. Enjoy made-to-order seafood, steak, pasta as well as sushi in a casual atmosphere. Dine in, carry out, drive through and catering. Full bar. Serving lunch 11 a.m.–2 p.m., Tues–Fri and dinner at 5 p.m. Tues–Sun. 2260 W. County Highway 30A. 850-278-6856. $$ l d Johnny McTighe’s Irish Pub Irish. A true neighborhood Irish Pub serving authentic Irish Fare and the best pizza anywhere. Happy Hour Mon–Fri 4:30–6:30 p.m. Open daily 11 a.m.–2 a.m. 2298 W. County Highway 30A. 850-267-0101. $ b l d Blue Mountain Beach Creamery Ice Cream. Homemade ice cream, sorbet and frozen yogurt treats. Open daily 10 a.m.–10 p.m. Cash only. 2129 S. County Highway 83. 850-278-6849. $$
2012, 2013 MEDITERRANEAN
Destin
790 on the Gulf ★ Cajun. All day specials are as delicious as the Gulf front view. The menu ranges from seafood, pasta, salads, wraps and burgers. Sip bottomless champagne or mimosas between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. Join us at our full bar for our daily Happy Hour specials. Open daily for brunch, lunch and dinner from 11 a.m.–9 p.m. 2996 Scenic Highway 98, Destin. 850-650-4853. $$ b l d
“COME WATCH THE BAYFRONT SUNSET WITH US”
AJ’s Seafood & Oyster Bar ★ Seafood. Choose from fresh local seafood, sandwiches, pasta, chicken or specialty dishes like the oysters Eugene or Rockefeller. Open daily 11 a.m. 116 E. Hwy. 98, 850-837-1913. $$ 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 Bonefish Grill ★ Seafood. Daily seafood specials cooked on an oak-burning wood grill. Bang-Bang Shrimp is a crowd-pleasing appetizer. Mon–Thu 4–10:30 p.m., Fri–Sat 4–11:30 p.m., Daily happy hour 4–7 p.m. 4447 E. Commons Dr., 850-650-3161. $$ d
Hours 11am–2am Lunch • Dinner • Late Night Happy Hour Daily 3:45-7pm
Callahan’s Restaurant & Deli ★ American. Voted Best Locally Owned Restaurant 2008–2013, Callahan’s serves up great sandwiches, seafood specials and prime rib. Mon–Sat 10 a.m.–10 p.m. 791 Harbor Blvd., 850-837-6328. $ l d
111 Cannery Lane, Sandestin (In Baytowne Wharf)
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Boshamps Seafood & Oyster House ★ Seafood. Located on the beautiful Destin Harbor, this seafood spot will spoil you with spectacular sunsets, sensational Gulf-to-table Southern cuisine (including award-winning oysters!) and family-friendly service all in a fun, relaxed, casual atmosphere. Open daily at 11 a.m. 414 Harbor Blvd., Destin. 850-424-7406. $$ l d
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Capt. Dave’s on the Gulf Seafood. Enjoy delicious fresh seafood dishes. Open daily 4:30 p.m. 3796 Hwy. 98, 850-837-2627. $ d
Ciao Bella Pizza Da Guglielmo Italian. Authentic Italian pizza, pasta, salads and more. Open daily 11 a.m. 29 E. Hwy. 98, Silver Sands, 850-654-3040. $$ l d CRAB ISLAND CANTINA Mexican. Latin inspired Mexican cuisine in a casual waterfront dining atmosphere offering the best views of Destin Harbor. Mon–Thu 11 a.m.–10 p.m., Fri–Sat 11 a.m.–11 p.m., Sun 11 a.m.–9 p.m. 2 Harbor Blvd. 850-424-7417. $$ l d The Crab Trap Seafood. Offering fresh seafood, steaks, salads and soups beachside. Mon–Thu 11 a.m.–9 p.m., Fri–Sat 11 a.m.–10 p.m. 3500 E. Hwy. 98, 850-654-2722. $$ l d Crust Pizzeria Italian. New York-style brick oven pizza. Ask about our specials. Mon-Thu 7a.m.–9 p.m., Fri–Sat 7 a.m.–10 p.m., Sun 7 a.m.–2 p.m. 104 Harbor Blvd., 850-460-2288. $ b l d
Dewey Destin Seafood Restaurant & Market ★ Seafood. True local charm in an outdoor setting and some of the freshest seafood around. Open 11 a.m.– 8 p.m. 9 Calhoun Ave., 850-837-7575. $$$ b l d Donut Hole Bakery Cafe American. Head to the Donut Hole for an out-of-thisworld breakfast or savory lunch — don’t forget the cinnamon raisin bread. Open 24 hours. 635 E. Hwy. 98, 850-837-8824. $ b l Emerald Grande Resort Grande Vista bar and grill Seafood. Fresh seafood, steak, pasta, salads, sandwiches and more. Indoor and outdoor dining available. Full bar. Open daily 7 a.m.–10 p.m. Located in HarborWalk Village. 10 Harbor Blvd., next to the Marler Bridge, 850-337-8100. $$$ b l
Jasmine Thai ★ Thai. Authentic Thai cuisine that is a combination between traditional and modern. Enjoy a variety of Thai dishes with different levels of spiciness made to your liking. Reservations are recommended. Tues–Sun lunch 11 a.m.–3 p.m., dinner 5–9 p.m. 4424 Commons Drive East. 850-269-0185. $$ l d Jim ’N Nick’s Bar-B-Q ★ Barbecue. Southern smokehouse barbecue. Beer and wine. Open daily 11 a.m. 14073 Emerald Coast Pkwy., 850-351-1991. $ l d
d
Fudpucker’s American. Burgers, sandwiches and specialties like the Fried Fudpucker (triggerfish). Open 11 a.m.–10 p.m. 20001 Emerald Coast Pkwy., 850-654-4200. $$ d
Destin Ice Seafood Market & Deli ★ Gourmet Takeout. Everything you need for a fresh and delicious meal. Choose from fresh fish and seafood items, pastas, salads and side dishes, Buckhead meats, decadent deserts and an assortment of wines, cheeses, spices and more. Open daily 8 a.m.– 7 p.m. 663 Emerald Coast Pkwy. 850-837-8333. $$ l d
Graffiti Italian. Traditional Italian favorites and house specialties like seafood pizza. Sun–Thu 5–9 p.m., Fri– Sat 5–10 p.m. 707 E. Hwy. 98, 850-654-2764. $$ d
Dewey Destin’s HarborSide ★ Seafood. One of Destin’s most popular restaurants serves up charm and award-winning seafood in a quaint house overlooking the scenic Destin Harbor. Open daily 11 a.m.–8 p.m. 202 Harbor Blvd., 850-837-7525. $$ l d
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
Harbor Docks ★ American. This surf-and-turf restaurant offers breakfast, lunch and dinner. Open daily 5 a.m.–11 p.m. 538 E. Hwy. 98, 850-837-2506. $$ b l d
HARRY T’S ★ Seafood. Lounge on the beautiful patio and watch
the passing boats as you enjoy an endless variety of delicious dishes. Mon–Thu 11 a.m.–10 p.m., Fri–Sat 11 a.m.–11 p.m., Sun 10 a.m.–10 p.m. 46 Harbor Blvd., 850-654-4800. $$ b l d
Johnny O’Quigley’s ★ American. Award-winning steak, seafood and barbecue in one of Destin’s favorite sports bars. Mon– Thu 11 a.m.–midnight, Fri–Sun 11 a.m.–1 a.m, Double Happy Hour Mon–Fri 3–6 p.m. and 10 p.m.–close. 34940 Emerald Coast Pkwy., 850-837-1015. $ l d 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 Miller’s Ale House ★ American. Quality food at a great value price in a casual neighborhood tavern atmosphere. Mon–Sat 11 a.m.–2 a.m., Sun 11 a.m.–12 a.m. 34906 Emerald Coast Pkwy. 850-837-0694. $ l d
BEST HIBACHI
18 Hibachi Tables Sushi Bar ~ Private Dining Happy Hour Specials 4–6
Sushi ~ Take Out Authentic Japanese Cuisine
850.351.1006
Located in the Village of Baytowne Wharf ™
850.650.4688 or 850.650.4689 34745 Emerald Coast Parkway / Destin
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McGuire’s Irish Pub ★ Irish American. Drinks, steaks, burgers and fries and Irish fare. Open daily 11 a.m. 33 E. Hwy. 98, 850-654-0567. $$ l d
Breakfast . Coffee Cakes . Pastries
Weddings and Catering
NOT JUST BAGELS ★ American. Bagels, breads, pastries, salads, soups and sandwiches. Mon– Fri 6 a.m.–3 p.m., Sat–Sun 7 a.m.–3 p.m. 4447 E. Commons Dr., Suite 112, 850-650-0465. $ b l Osaka ★ Japanese. Known for its sushi but serves a variety of dishes including chicken, steak and seafood. Lunch 11 a.m.–2:30 p.m., Dinner 5–10:30 p.m. 34845 Emerald Coast Pkwy., 850-650-4688 or 850-650-4689. $$ l d Pepito’s ★ Mexican. Voted Best Mexican on the Emerald Coast, locals love Pepito’s for its authentic Mexican cuisine and mouthwatering margaritas. Happy Hour specials all day Mondays, including small rocks margaritas and all beer and well drinks for $1.99. Open daily 11 a.m.–10 p.m. 757 E. Hwy. 98, 850-650-7734. $$ l d Poppy’s Crazy Lobster Seafood. Relax with us on the beautiful Destin Harbor, and enjoy the best seafood in town. Toast the setting sun with a Crazy Lobster Cooler or any number of fun cocktails. Open daily at 11 a.m. HarborWalk Village, 850-424-6744. $$ l d Regatta Bay Golf and Country Club American. Located inside Regatta Bay Golf & Country Club. Open to the public 11 a.m.–2 p.m. Variety of salads and sandwiches. Full bar. Specializing in on- and off-site catering including weddings, receptions and special events. 465 Regatta Bay Blvd., 850-337-8888. $ b l d Ruth’s Chris Steak House ★ Steak and Seafood. New Orleans-inspired appetizers, desserts and award-winning wines. Mon–Sat 5:30–10 p.m., Sun 5:30–9 p.m. Silver Shells Resort. 1500 Emerald Coast Pkwy., 850-337-5108. $$$ d Sarah k’s gourmet ★ Gourmet Takeout. Chef-crafted, ready-to-heat cuisine. Jumbo lump crab cakes and fresh chicken salad are the house specialties. Open at 11 a.m. 34940 Hwy. 98, 850-269-0044. $ l d Tuscany Italian Bistro Italian. Chef and owner, Guglielmo Ianni, prepares authentic Northern Italian cuisine using the freshest of ingredients, choice meats, fresh seafood and garden vegetables. Hours TBD. 36178 Emerald Coast Pkwy. 850-650-2451. $$ d
Fort Walton Beach
Aegean Restaurant ★ Greek. Savor the flavors of the Mediterranean at this authentic Greek restaurant. Mon–Sat 10:30 a.m.–8:30 p.m. 1259 Eglin Pkwy., Shalimar, 850-613-6120. $$ l d
Benjarong Thai Cuisine & BBQ Thai and Barbecue. Barbecue, chicken, ribs, steak and spicy Thai food. Lunch and dinner Mon–Sat 11 a.m.–9 p.m. 251 Mary Esther Blvd., 850-362-0290. $$ l d Ali's Bistro American. Seafood, steak, pasta, chicken, veal, sandwiches and salads in a casually cool modern space. Tue–Sun 11 a.m.–9 p.m. 171 Brooks St., 850-226-4708. $$ l d The Black Pearl Steak and Seafood. Dig into some coconut shrimp and a juicy steak while enjoying a lovely view of the Gulf. Located in The Boardwalk on Okaloosa Island. Open daily 4 p.m. 1450 Miracle Strip Pkwy., 850-833-3016. $$ d Buffalo’s Reef Famous Wings ★ American. This restaurant is famous for hot wings and cold beer. Ask about the daily specials. Tue–Sat open at 10:30 a.m., Sun open at noon. 116 Eglin Pkwy., 850-243-9463. $ l d Clemenza’s Uptown ★ Italian. This family owned restaurant features authentic Italian cuisine, a full bar and Mama Clemenza’s famous European Breakfast. Breakfast: Sat 8 a.m.–noon, Sun 8 a.m.–1 p.m. 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 114 October–November 2013
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on the menu
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...on the ha
ing uneiqnuues Featurh nig tly m
Mitchell’s Fish Market Shark Fin Dessert
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
T
his fall travel light and discover some satisfying and delicious menu items from local favorites the whole family will enjoy, off the beaten path from Niceville to Grayton Beach. Dessert
Mitchell’s Fish Market, Miramar Beach
Having a sweet tooth craving? Attack it with the killer Shark Fin Dessert. The preparation takes 24 hours. Oreo cookie crumb crust and butter form the frozen base. Then come layers of Blue Bell Homemade in the Shade ice cream. Fudge and peanut butter are topped off with chopped honey roasted peanuts and house whipped cream, $8.95 for a slice or $36 for the “whole fish.”
ts bo • Sandwiches • Steamed Seafoo d • Fried Seafood Baske Gum
...overlooking Crab Island
Sunday Brunch
One 20 A Modern Bistro, Niceville Chef Dan Pettis’ Bistro serves up Ultimate French toast with
frosted flake crust, strawberries and cinnamon syrup, winning over my child and I — enough to share if you’re lucky to get a bite, $10.
Lunch
Front Porch Restaurant, Niceville
Dinner
Chanticleer Bakery and Eatery, Grayton Beach
Open 7 days a week • 11AM -‘Til 9 Calhoun Ave., Destin • 837-7575 BOATERS WELCOME!
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Sandro and Emily Wever own this new eatery with items worth every bite and a lot of crowing. The Summer Salad with locally grown mixed greens piled high with orange slices, assorted berries, apples and Gorgonzola cheese shifts in the fall to a Harvest Salad, $11. If you can’t choose between a salad or sandwich, like us, choose half of each for $9. The Chanticleer Grilled Cheese is a perfect way to spoil yourself with freshly baked rosemary sage bread from the on-site bakery, cheddar, provolone and mozzarella, finished off with bacon and bruschetta.
Photo Courtesy Royall Advertising
Nestled along scenic Bayshore Drive, George and Connie Vieira serve up comfort food for breakfast and lunch. Specialties include Connie’s Gourmet Chicken Salad with dried cranberries and roasted pecans served on a bed of Romaine, $9.45. Or indulge in a warm Reuben, layered with inches of lean corned beef on grilled rye, sauerkraut and Swiss cheese, $9.65.
dining High Tide Seafood. Delicious seafood dishes, award-winning gumbo and fresh Apalachicola oysters served for lunch and dinner. Mon–Sat 11 a.m.–9:30 p.m. 1203 Miracle Strip Pkwy., 850-244-2624. $ Magnolia Grill Steak, Seafood and Italian. Steak, seafood, pasta, soups, salads and desserts. Lunch Mon–Fri 11 a.m.–2 p.m. Dinner Mon–Sat, open at 5 p.m. Closed Sun. 157 SE Brooks St., 850-302-0266. $$ l d 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. $$$ d Pandora’s Steak and Seafood. Early evening specials weekdays 5–6 p.m. Happy Hour weekdays 5–7 p.m. Weekdays 5–10 p.m.dWeekends 5–11 p.m. 1226 Santa Rosa Blvd., 850-244-8669. $$$ 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. $$$ b d Staff’s Steak, Seafood and Pasta. In operation for more than 100 years, Staff’s is the oldest family-operated Florida restaurant and a local favorite serving homemade American cuisine in a casual, rustic atmosphere. Open daily for dinner from 5 p.m. 24 Miracle Strip Pkwy., 850-243-3482. $$ 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 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 awardwinning 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 – On the Bay ★ Breakfast. Breakfast all day, plus sandwiches, patty melts, specials, soups, salads and desserts. Open daily from 7 a.m.–3 p.m. The Village of Baytowne Wharf, 850-622-2050. $ b EmeraldCoastMagazine.com October–November 2013
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dining 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. $$$ d Cabana Café American. A casual poolside restaurant serving made-to-order salads, savory soups and chowders, deli-style sandwiches (with homemade bread!), savory build-your-own burgers and quesadillas, stone-fired pizza, pasta and more. Sunday brunch. Full bar. Open 11 a.m.–2 a.m. Mon–Sat and Sundays from 9 a.m.–2 a.m. Happy Hour 11 a.m.–7 p.m. Karaoke and live entertainment. Located on the ground floor of Ariel Dunes in Seacape Resort, 112 Seascape Drive. Come see us in our new location inside Hurricane Lanes in Destin. Ask about the locals discount. 850-424-3574. $$ 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. $$ l d Elephant Walk American. Rediscover the signature dish, Grouper Elizabeth, and relive the nostalgia and charm that is the incomparable Elephant Walk. Enjoy attentive service, excellent continental cuisine, a dynamic wine list and panoramic views of the Gulf. Serving lunch seasonally and dinner daily 5–10 p.m. Beachside at Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort, 9300 Emerald Coast Pkwy. West, 850-267-4800. $$$ 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. $$ d John Wehner’s Village Door Bayfront Restaurant & Nightclub ★ American. Rock your dinner with appetizers such as smoked tuna dip, peeled Gulf shrimp and fried pickles, follow that with any number of fresh salads, seafood platters or barbecue dinner with your choice of awardwinning sauce and pair with wine, beer or a signature cocktail. And hopefully the night will lead you to best dance floor on the Emerald Coast. Open daily for dinner 5-9 p.m. The Village of Baytowne Wharf, 126 Fisherman’s Cove. 850-502-4590. $ d Lin’s Asian Cuisine Asian. Chef Qun Lin whips up steaming portions of your favorite Chinese and Southeast Asian dishes. Open Mon–Thu 10:30 a.m.–9 p.m., Fri–Sat 10:30 a.m.– 9:30 p.m., Sun noon–9 p.m. 130 Scenic Gulf Dr., Suite 5B, 850-424-5888. $ l d Marina Bar and Grill American. Seafood, po-boys, burgers, salads overlooking the Baytowne Marina and Choctawhatchee Bay. You catch ’em we cook ’em service. Open daily 11 a.m.–7 p.m., Breakfast Sat–Sun 8–11 a.m. Kitchen closed Mon–Tue. Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort, 9300 Emerald Coast Pkwy. West., 850-267-7778. $ b l d Marlin Grill ★ Steak and Seafood. Fresh seafood, steaks, salads and appetizers served inside or outside. Open nightly at 5 p.m. Village of Baytowne Wharf, 850-351-1990. $$$ l d The Melting Pot Fondue. Dip into something different and enjoy an interactive, hands-on, four-course dining experience with a cheese fondue, salad, entrée and chocolate fondue dessert. Open Sun–Thu 5–10 p.m., Fri–Sat 5–11 p.m. 11394 Hwy. 98., 850-269-2227. $$$ d Mitchell’s Fish Market Seafood. Chef-driven dishes such as Cedar Roasted Atlantic Salmon or HoisinGlazed Yellow Fin Tuna. Lunch Mon–Sat 11 a.m.–4 p.m., Sun 11 a.m.–3 p.m., Dinner Mon–Thu 4–10 p.m., Fri–Sat 4–11 p.m., Sun 3–9 p.m. Grand Boulevard Sandestin, 850-650-2484. $$ l d 118 October–November 2013
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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 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. $$ l d
2008-Best Italian 2009-Best Pizza 2010-Best Pizza, Best Chef 2011-Best Pizza, Best Italian & Best Chef 2012-Best Italian
Vin’Tij Wine Boutique & Bistro American. Traditional favorites and unique house dishes. Open daily 11 a.m.– midnight. 10859 W. Emerald Coast Pkwy., Suite 103, 850-650-9820. $ l d
Niceville/Valparaiso Compass Rose Restaurant and Bar Caribbean. Waterfront dining overlooking Tom’s Bayou. The cuisine is coastal with a Caribbean-West Indies flair. Enjoy Happy Hour, daily specials and Sunday brunch. Tue–Thur 11 a.m.–9 p.m.,Fri 11 a.m.–10 p.m., Sat 4–10 p.m., Sun 10 a.m.–3 p.m. 303 Glen Ave., 850-389-2125. $$ 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. $$ b l d Pepitos ★ Mexican. Locals love the authentic Mexican cuisine, margaritas and all-day Monday Happy Hour special. Open daily 11 a.m.–10 p.m. 4585 E Hwy 20, Suite 100, Niceville, 850-279-4949. $$ l d TradeWinds Italian. A cozy favorite among locals serving heaping portions from old family recipes. Enjoy a number of pasta variations as well as seafood, chicken, veal, steak and thin crust pizza. Expansive wine and beer list. Reservations required. Open Tue–Sat 5 p.m. 205 Government St., 850-678-8299. $$ d
Santa Rosa Beach
98 Bar-B-Que Barbecue. Four generations have perfected Southern barbecue served with your favorite sides. Lunch and dinner, 11 a.m.–8 p.m. Mon–Sat. 5008 W. Hwy. 98., 850-622-0679. $ l d
Amore Pizzeria Italian/American. Serving gourmet pizzas, wings, salads and panini sandwiches in a family-friendly atmosphere. Mon–Fri 11 a.m.–3 p.m. for lunch and 5–9 p.m. for dinner, Sat 11 a.m.–9 p.m., Sun noon–9 p.m. Closed Tue. 95 Laura Hamilton Blvd. in Gulfplace (CR 393 and 30A), 850-267-2202. $l d Basmati’s Asian Cuisine & Sushi Asian. Asian dishes and full sushi bar. Open 4 p.m. daily. 3295 W. Hwy. 30A, 850-267-3028. $$ d EmeraldCoastMagazine.com October–November 2013
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a taste for ...
A cancer-fighting diet The old adage “you are what you eat” is still key to a healthy life. Unfortunately, Western medicine’s approach to cancer doesn’t necessarily include prescribing a detailed plan for good nutrition. So, eating well is something we need to be mindful of without waiting for a doctor’s order. It only makes sense that a cancer-free body is more likely if we follow an “anti-cancer” diet. David Servan-Schreiber, MD, PhD is author of “Anti Cancer: A New Way of Life” and a 15-year brain cancer survivor. In addition to avoiding industrial chemicals, getting regular exercise, practicing meditative relaxation and taking in some fresh air each day, he suggests the following little diet changes will make a big difference in staying cancer free: Eat grass-fed organic animal products — Meat, milk, cheese, yogurt, omega-3 eggs (eating all organic is certainly preferred, but more important with these foods than with vegetables, fruits and grains). Balance your diet — Reduce your intake of sugar, white flour, products containing omega-6s — sunflower oil, corn oil, soybean oil, safflower oil, margarine, hydrogenated (trans) fat, nonorganic animal fat (meat, eggs, dairy products). Increase your omega-3 intake (fish, grass- or flaxseed-fed animal products, flaxseeds and oil). Increase your intake of anticancer products (turmeric, green tea, soy, specific anticancer vegetables and fruits). Filter tap water — Use a carbon filter or an inverse osmosis filter or drink mineral water or spring water. — Zandra Wolfgram
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dining Café Tango American. Seafood, poultry and pasta served with specialty sauces. Homemade desserts. Open Tue–Sun 5–10 p.m. 14 Vicki St., 850-267-0054. $$$ d Fire American. With New Orleans natives in the kitchen, it’s no surprise that this casual fine-dining restaurant is hot. Lunch Thu–Fri 11:30 a.m.–2:30 p.m., Dinner Mon–Thu 6–9 p.m., Fri–Sat 6–10 p.m., Brunch Sun 11 a.m. 7 Town Canter Loop, 850-267-9020. $$ l 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. $$$ d Louis Louis American. The only thing that isn’t over the top at Louis Louis is the menu pricing. The Moulin Rouge-inspired interior décor is outrageously wonderful. Dine outside or in. The menu has six tasty items, from crab cakes, panned chicken, blackened fish and a few pastas. Mon–Sun 5–10 p.m. 35 Mussett Bayou Rd., 850-267-1500. $ d
BEST WINGS
VKI Japanese Steak House & Sushi Bar Asian. Using the freshest ingredients this Japanese gem serves up tasty Habachistyle stir-fry meals of steak, seafood and chicken prepared at your table as well as artfully prepared sashimi and sushi rolls. Open daily. Lunch 11 a.m.–3 p.m., Dinner 4:30–9:30 p.m. 4552 Highway 98, Santa Rosa Beach, 850-267-2555. $$ l d Vue on 30a American. Seafood, beef, poultry, lamb, veal, pastas, soups and bisques. Open Tues– Fri 11 a.m.–2:30 p.m., Wed–Sat 5–9 p.m. 4801 W. Hwy. 30A, 850-267-2305. $$ l d
Seaside & Seagrove Beach
723 Whiskey Bravo American. Steak, seafood and casual “beachy” bites. Relax on the rooftop bar with Gulf view. Open daily from 11 a.m. Brunch on Sundays. 3031 Scenic Highway 30A. 850-213-0015. $$ l d Angelina’s Pizza & Pasta Italian. Authentic homemade pizza pie and Italian dishes in a casual atmosphere. Lunch and dinner daily: 11 a.m.–9:30 p.m. 4005 E. Hwy. 30A, 850-231-2500. $ l d Bud & Alley’s Restaurant American. Serving fresh seafood, steak and vegetarian options. 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. $$$ l d
YOSHIE YOSHIE @ @ Harbor Harbor DocksDocks
Café Thirty-A Seafood. Seafood, lamb, duck, filet mignon and pizza. Open daily 5 p.m. 3899 E. Hwy. 30A, 850-231-2166. $$ 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
LIVE LIVE LAUGH LAUGH EAT EAT DRINK DRINK
LOVE LOVE The Best The Best Sushi Sushion on The The Emerald Emerald Coast C Coast HarborHarbor Docks Docks 538 538 Harbor Harbor Blvd. Blvd. Destin Destin www.harbordocks.com www.harbordocks.com 837.2506 837.2506
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the last word
Coaching History By Elvin C. Bell
t
Panchito and Special Delivery, two of five B-25 Mitchell bombers on display at the Destin Airport in conjunction with the 71st Doolittle Raiders Anniversary Reunion. These planes flew in the famous Tokyo Raid in April of 1942, which is considered by historians to be a turning point for American morale during World War II.
his Veteran’s Day we honor the Doolittle Tokyo Raiders, a throughout the country, the spirit of the body polgroup of 80 men from all walks of life who flew into history itic was lower than anyone could ever remember. on April 18, 1942. Many trained at Eglin Air Force Base, but Nimitz decided to be a coach one more time. only four live on to tell their story. Sixteen B-25 bombers He needed a battle plan that included some agtook off from the deck of the USS Hornet, led by (then Col.) Jimmy gressive, proactive sea and air strikes against Doolittle. They were to fly over Japan, drop their bombs and fly on to the Japanese; decisive and consistent offensive land in a part of China that was still free. actions to reverse the tide of battle and regain Many publications do a grand job with articles that re-cap the America’s spirit and our military’s morale. historic Doolittle Raid over Tokyo during WWII, but He devised a plan with three legs. those articles consistently fail to mention the originaAfter consulting with his comtor of that raid — Fleet Admiral Chester Nimitz. His rade-in-arms, Gen. Henry “Hap” Arnold, Nimitz behind-the-scenes role in that mission should be told, as started the planning and training for a sea-launched air it was told to me by his daughter, Sister Mary Aquinas bombing attack on Tokyo. Nimitz, who earned her doctorate degree from Stanford Arnold selected Lt. Col. James Doolittle, who had a University and was president of Dominican University. doctorate in aeronautical engineering from Massachusetts To tell the Nimitz story, as Sister Mary told me, we Institute of Technology, to lead the highly secret mission. need to go back to the era when Nimitz was a young The Nimitz-originated Doolittle raid on April 18, lieutenant commander and served on the faculty of 1942, was the first leg of the triad. the University of California, Berkeley. While there, he Banner headlines awakened Americans and reinstated a headed the Navy ROTC program and served as an as“can-do” spirit. That spirit swelled the civilian work force sistant football coach. It didn’t take long for this coach to and thousands upon thousands of tanks, airplanes and Elvin C. Bell, a retired USAF colonel, covers his learn the value of team morale and student body esprit ships were built ahead of schedule and went into battle. interview with Sister Mary de corps. Above all, it was personal, team and school The second leg of the Nimitz triad started on May 4, Nimitz in greater detail in morale that stuck with Nimitz and became an indelible when the U.S. Navy used Nimitz’s strategy and Admiral his 10th book, “The Event part of his future command persona. “Bull” Halsey’s tactics to win a decisive victory at the Makers I’ve Known.” The United States was coming out of The Great DeBattle of Coral Sea — a battle that saw air attacks for the pression when Pearl Harbor pulled us into World War II. first time in naval history. Although the U.S. suffered massive naval damage and lost 3,800 The defeat forced Japan to bring its military assets closer to its home lives during the Japanese attack, Nimitz found reasons to be optimisports, leaving a much larger share of the Pacific to Nimitz’s ships. tic when he arrived in Hawaii and surveyed the destruction. To his More morale-boosting headlines followed. surprise, he discovered that the Japanese were so concerned about The triad’s crushing blow occurred 30 days later during early June sinking our battleships that they never bombed our nearby dry docks. when Nimitz’s navy engaged the Japanese at Midway, scoring the Another reason for optimism was almost beyond belief. Every drop first full-scale spectacular air battle, sinking most of the enemy’s carrier fleet and forcing what was left of its naval force back closer to of fuel in the Pacific theater of war was still intact in storage tanks their homeland. some five miles away on a hill. Nimitz, the former football coach, had thrown three successful In the meantime, Nimitz properly sensed that America’s morale “Hail-Mary” touchdown passes that routed the enemy and reinstalled was at low ebb, as was the nation’s military fighting spirit. For the first grit, grace and glory in the hearts of Americans and the nation’s fighttime, Americans were depressed. ing forces. Roosevelt’s “the day which will live in infamy” speech further sadIs there another Chester Nimitz among us? ec dened Americans and with unemployment hovering in double digits 122 October–November 2013
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Photos Courtesy Mert Wagner
Admiral Chester Nimitz’ Heroic ‘Hail Marys’
Rug Retailer 2010–2013
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