VIP 30A September/October Issue 2021

SEPTEMBER/ OCTOBER 2021

Rags to Riches regatta

SWHS TOUCHDOWN CLUB

CASINO NIGHT football/ fashion

2021

Chef

Jim Shirley an interview with...

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Contents

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2021

Volume 1 • Number 2

Founder/Publisher Jeff Watson

Editor

Kayla Burleson

Features

Maggie Yelverton

Graphics

Kayla Burleson Sheila MacDiarmid

Advertising

Jeff Watson Kayla Burleson

12

25

EVENTS YPWC Happy Hour Benefit Gallery Night with Brynn Casey Rags to Riches Regatta Chateau d’Esclans Wine Tasting Santa Rose Beach New Members Mixer SWHS Touchdown Club Casino Night Little’s Lunches Grand Opening Power of Networking Lunch Power of Business Luncheon

11 12 18 25 31 44 58 61 62

18

Writers & Photographers Will Estell Jeff Watson Kayla Burleson Mark Hotze Amy Milligan

Web Master

Kayla Burleson

21 EDITORIAL The 30A 10K Thanksgiving Day Races VIProfile: Chef Jim Shirley Calendar of Events VIP 30A MAGAZINE 2078 Hwy 98, A105 Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459 (731) 616-2628 www.30AMag.com

Submit your events to events@30amag.com

15 21 34

football/fashion 2021 37 Fall Fashion SEC Football Schedule 2021 Tailgating Done Right Cookbook South Walton Varsity Football

Reading Water VIProfile: Casey Kearney

38 46 49 52

ON THE COVER Madison Bellamy Photography by kk photos

55 57

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2021 • 9

Letter from the Publisher

I

Jeff Watson

10 •

t would only seem fitting to say one of our most exciting and successful VIP Magazine launches in our 18 years of publishing is in one of the hottest areas of the country, 30A! The response from our readers has been amazing with magazines flying off the stands from day one. We have also had tremendous support from local advertisers quick to jump on board a brand new title. And let me say, while I’m on the subject of advertisers, that small businesses are dealing with unprecedented issues and challenges in the current labor markets. It is encouraging and motivating to see these local business owners grind their way through these times with tenacity and dedication. Despite these unusual challenges, most agree that business and commerce along 30A and South Walton County is as strong as ever

and VIP is thrilled to be a part of this unprecedented growth and demand!

This issue is our annual Football/Fashion issue, which we publish in most of our VIP markets every September. In the fashion world, September is synonymous with New York Fashion Week. In the sports world, do I say more than SEC football and of course Friday night lights. This is a fun issue where we bring you a little local fashion mixed with football schedules and a few ideas for tailgating on Saturdays to support your alma mater.

There are many great game day options and venues throughout 30A so get out this fall and enjoy some of the best weekends of the year while cheering on your team! And of course, watch for the VIP cameras flashing!

Walton Area Chamber’s Marianne Ireland Celebrates 10 Years and Retirement “For the past 10 years, Marianne Ireland has been the glue that held the Chamber together. We would love to congratulate her on a well-deserved retirement.

She will be remembered for the impact that she had on the Chamber and our community. We want to thank her for her years of hard work and dedication.

Marianne, we wish you much happiness and endless days with your friends and family!”

— Megan Harrison, Walton Co. Chamber President

VIP • The SOWAL House

Kelly Curry, Ashton Burks, Kelly Cash, Jordan Staggs, Rachel McCord & Jessica Anderson

Meredith Neese, Sarah Svoboda & Tori Stapleton

YPWC

Happy Hour Benefit Story by Ashton Burks. Photography by Jeff Watson.

T

he Young Professionals of Walton County recently invited the community to the newly minted SOWAL House studio and event space for a Better Together Happy Hour benefiting Kindness for Katherine. Better Together Beverage along with Distillery 98 vodka created craft cocktails while guests mingled and discovered this beautiful new space in the heart of Rosemary Beach. The evening included a heart felt presentation explaining “Be the Match,” the nation’s leading program for bone marrow donation. Kindness for Katherine is a local GoFundMe campaign benefiting Walton County Young Professional Katherine Green, who was diagnosed with a form of blood cancer called Myelodysplastic Syndrome (MDS) due to a rare genetic mutation.

The evening also featured a short seminar and Q&A session with local hematologist/oncologist Dr. Mose Hayes of Ascension Sacred Heart Cancer Care.

Heather Cleveland & Dr. Mose Hayes

Meilina Graves & Rachel McCord

Christian Shiver, Issac Gonzoles & Seamus Keenan

Ashley Grimes & Jessica Anderson

Jonathon Page, Gavin Young, Blake Jones & Dave King

For these photos and more, follow us on Facebook.

Kelly Curry & Jordan Staggs

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VIP • BECASA

Brenna Kneiss, Shelby Boston & Mary Ellen DiMauro

GALLERY NIGHT

Darlene Donald, Kendalyn Ferner & Galan Kent

Kenzi Burley & Rhonda Murray

with Brynn Casey Story & Photography by Jeff Watson

B

ECASA, a new addition to 30A Avenue this year, is a warm and inviting boutique with a wonderful, inviting staff. Beyond great clothes and gifts, BECASA has displayed its hospitality and charm with its ability to entertain a crowd for special events. The latest gathering was to host the introduction and installation of artist Brynn Casey and 30A Beaches. This body of original artwork is all about collecting memories we live in and never want to forget. Brynn captures her most favorite memories on 30A in this collection of paintings that are hopeful, nostalgic and idyllic. A special thanks to Shaka Sushi and CC.Boone for tasty treats and Better Together Beverage and Good Clean Wine for the beverages enjoyed while shopping to the background music of local favorite Sarah Anne Davidson.

Lisa Benton, Adrian Tillmanns, Joanna Bos & Alisa Ghazvini For these photos and more, follow us on Facebook.

Jay & Julia Johnson

Trey Minchew & Jordan Magee

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Brynn Casey & Emily Raffield Candelier

Jeff Watson & Maggie Yelverton

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10th Anniversary

The 30A 10K Thanksgiving Day Races Is On This Holiday Season

J

oin us this fall for our signature 10th anniversary of the 30A 10K Thanksgiving Day races. The 10K, 5K and 1 mile races are predicted to be the biggest and best Thanksgiving Day event yet with all the in-person fun we love and some special surprises to celebrate the big day. “It’s so rewarding to us to be celebrating ten years of the 30A 10K Thanksgiving Day Races,” said Race Director Karen Meadows. “To date, the 30A 10K has donated more than $450,000 to area charities and we are excited to sail past the $500,000 mark with this year’s event.”

The 30A 10K Thanksgiving Day Races’ mission is to raise funds for local non-profits and to promote the spirit of health and wellness. All money raised is donated to the event’s annually selected charity partners. The charity partners for the 2021 race include: The Point Washington Medical Clinic, the Walton County Education Foundation, Northwest Florida Guardian ad Litem, and the Seaside School Foundation.

Recognized as one of the top ten turkey trots in America, the 30A 10K is known for its amazing flat and fast

courses and over-the-top after party. With a 10K, 5K and 1 mile run/walk, there is a race distance for every ability.

All runners receive a signature environmentally-friendly Next Level brand race shirt and a commemorative, reusable 23oz Miir insulated water bottle to keep your favorite drink at its ideal temp and to eliminate single-use plastic bottles in our landfills and oceans. After crossing the finish line, runners may fill the reusable water bottle at water stations in the post-race space.

“One of the things we are most proud about with this year’s event, is our growing commitment to becoming a ‘green’ race,” said Meadows. “We started years ago with our virtual race bag, recycling efforts and environmentally sourced race shirts. This year, we are expanding with reusable water bottles to eliminate single-use plastic bottles.

I think we all recognize that the reason we love running and vacationing here on 30A so much is because of the natural, environmental beauty of the area. Celebrating that and protecting it for future generations is so very important.”

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2021 • 15

After the race, participants are invited to join in the celebration at the free post-race breakfast featuring donuts, fresh fruit, food items from area restaurants, and the ever-popular beer tent and Bloody Mary and Mimosa bar. Lucky, the 30A 10K turkey mascot, will be on hand as usual with high-fives and hugs. “It wouldn’t be the 30A 10K Thanksgiving Day race without him,” said co-race director Amy Stoyles. “One of my favorite parts about our race is seeing so many families out having fun together. Kids, teens, adults and grandparents are all enjoying an activity together. Afterwards, we love to have families hang out at the post-race breakfast and cheer on the rest of the runners.”

With that in mind, this year’s event has a special component: elementary through high school runners from area schools are invited to participate in the 5K and 10K races. The local school with the most participants can win a $500 award for their school. The race directors will be reaching out to local P.E. coaches this summer with more details.

Principals, teachers and interested athletes are welcome to contact the 30A 10K as well to learn more.

The race is expected to sell out soon so don’t delay. Early bird prices are available now and spots are limited. “Don’t wait and miss out on what is sure to be the running event of the holiday season,” said Stoyles.

“And even better, you can give yourself an excuse for that second slice of pie.”

Registration may be found at: www.30a10k.com

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SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2021 • 17

Rags to Riches regatta

O

Story & Photography by Jeff Watson & Kayla Burleson

n the 4th of July weekend, the waters off of Grayton Beach were filled with a beautiful display of colorful sails. This beloved annual tradition, in honor of Independence Day, is know as the Rags to Riches Regatta. The race field is made up of 16 ‘ Hobie Cats which race from Grayton Beach to Seagrove and back with teams of two. This day’s strong southerly wind proved to be challenging from the beginning as the teams struggled to get their catamarans through the high surf and across the break to smoother waters. This made for an extremely exciting start for the hundreds of spectators watching from waters edge. Once all but one of the cats navigated the start, it was literally off to the races for the fleet as they made their way to the buoy at Seagrove to make the turn for the final leg back to Grayton!

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VIProfile

Chef Jim Shirley Serving Up Great Cuisine for Beach Lovers from around the World Story by Will Estell

I

f you’ve spent much time along the white sands and emerald waters of South Walton and the beach communities that dot Scenic Highway 30A, you’ve likely frequented on of Chef Jim Shirley’s restaurants. Probably more than once. And if you haven’t, assuming you love great food like so many of us do, you probably want to visit any one of them sooner than later.

Jim Shirley is a multifaceted award-winning chef, business mogul, and philanthropist, along with being the founder and proprietor behind some of the most popular eateries along the beaches of Northwest Florida’s Gulf Coast. Great Southern Café, 45 Central Wine & Sushi Bar, and The Meltdown—all in Seaside. Along with The Bay, Farm & Fire, and North Beach Social, located on 331 in Santa Rosa Beach, are all part of this well-known and respected group of coastal favorites.

As a nationally recognized chef and restauranteur Jim has been creating his style of coastal themed cuisine for almost two de-

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2021 • 21

VIProfile Chef Jim Shirley cades, opening his first restaurant in Pensacola way back in 1995, Madison’s Diner, named after his daughter. Since that time Shirley has continued to be very instrumental in developing all of the new startups he’s involved in, while also contributing heavily to the momentum and success of other Northwest Florida eateries through his mentorship and service as a board of directors member of the Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association, founder and president of the Society of Great Southern Chefs, and a member of the Southern Foodways Alliance. Additionally, Shirley has held several other positions within the restaurant and tourism community, as well as local and regional philanthropic organizations. In other words he’s a pretty busy guy who doesn’t show much sign of slowing down. So I felt pretty lucky when I was able to catch up with him to do this feature—my third magazine piece on Jim over the past five years.

Will Estell: First off tell me about your unique style of cooking and how that came to be.

Jim Shirley: You know, I like to call it modern Southern cuisine. As for how it came to be, it was really just a little of this and a little of that from various cultures and places I lived and learned to prepare dishes from. My dad was a Navy pilot who was stationed all around the world, and I learned to enjoy a variety of foods from so many cultures, along with picking some of it up from my grandmothers’ traditional Southern cooking along the way.

WE: I know your first restaurant along 30A was the now iconic Great Southern Café’ in Seaside. How did that come to be, since you had already established yourself as a chef in the Pensacola area?

JS: At that time, the farm to table concept for healthy food utilization in restaurants was in its infancy. I had been coming to Seaside for quite some time to visit some friends who were some of the early colonist of the 30A area. Through these friends I was introduced to Robert Davis [Seaside’s founder] and we began talking about some farm to table concepts. I had been having trouble sourcing fresh produce for my Pensacola restaurants and Robert had some connections and brilliant concepts as to how to solve some of those issues. On a particular trip to Seaside I had some farm to table system people along with me to meet with Robert and some other friends in the 30A area involved in these talks. During the course of these routine visits Robert and I became friends … over lots of wine [laughing], and one thing led to another, and we just decided to do a restaurant there in Seaside. That’s how Great Southern Café was born, and we’re extremely proud to be a forerunner in that Seaside and 30A food culture.

22 •

WE: What originally inspired you to become a chef and then restaurateur?

JS: You know, I just always loved to cook and entertain. I really began cooking by flipping burgers at fourteen, and I essentially ran a pizza place at seventeen, so all of these things were in motion moving me away from becoming a doctor. It just became evident at that early age that this was the industry I was going to be in. And if I was going to be in it, I wanted to really be in it and make a mark.

WE: Speaking of making a mark I know your most famous dish is probably the Grits a YaYa, at Great Southern, and anyone who has tried it understands why. Tell me how that dish came to be.

JS: Back in 1998 I was cooking for a Mardi Gras Krew party in Pensacola and that was the dish I came up with. I threw it all together while listening to the Rolling Stones ‘Get Your YaYa’s Out’, so that’s how it got its name [laughing]. It just took off and stuck and it’s been a favorite ever since.

WE: Having said how Great Southern came to be, tell me a little about some of your other restaurants and what makes each one special.

Starting with North Beach Social where we’re sitting right now.

JS: You know, this place [North Beach Social on 331] kind of speaks for itself. Look around.

All this wonderful expansive view of the water.

It’s just such a great location to wind down, kick back and relax while having a meal and a few drinks with friends, over a beautiful sunset or while listening to some live music. I often see dolphins playing right out that window behind you, and there are even two bald eagles that regularly fly around out here beside the restaurant. It’s just a great atmosphere and one that seems to keep people coming back. The same goes for Farm & Fire, with the same great view, coupled with all the fresh food. Much of which is sourced locally from area farms, and even from our own farm that’s rapidly supplying more and more of the fresh produce we serve in our restaurants.

The Bay [located directly across the highway from North Beach Social and Farm & Fire] is a place to experience more of an international flair in the dishes served there. Guests can come by car or by boat, and since it’s right here on the Choctawhatchee Bay it offers a great place where families can come together, and the kids can play and have fun outside while their parents listen to great live music while dining on our porch or inside the restaurant.

We also do a lot of events at that location, and here too. From wedding receptions to corporate dinners, it’s just a such a wonderful view and space.

My partner Kelli Castille and I opened Meltdown on 30A in Seaside in 2010 as a unique concept to fit in with Seaside’s new community of vintage Airstreams converted to food trailers. We sell a variety of grilled cheese sandwiches. Who doesn’t like grilled cheese sandwiches right? You can get your choice of all sorts of meats and cheese and an array of sides including fresh made roasted tomato soup or chips. This one just took off and now we’ve got people posting on Instagram, showing pictures and videos of them pulling their sandwiches apart, showing off the stringing cheese as they eat there. They’ve basically started some kind of Meltdown on 30A cult following [laughing].

Then there’s 45 Central Wine & Sushi Bar in Seaside. It’s another unique concept and a great place to just dine and unwind. We’ve got an extensive wine selection, great sushi, and just a great atmosphere to relax, meet new people and have a good time in a wonderful place like Seaside.

WE: It’s one thing to have these unique concepts, and I’m sure that goes a long way in making your group of restaurants work and continue to be so successful, but beyond that what do you attribute your success to? What’s the secret sauce in the Jim Shirley Enterprises success recipe?

JS: The secret, or not so secret if I’m telling you [laughing] is our people. All 250 plus of them.

Our restaurants are all built from the kitchen out. Our various concepts can only take us so far, but the right people are what make the machine work. We just cook what people like. Our food, service and attention to detail drive it all.

If a restaurant’s ownership, management and team don’t take the time to satisfy the customers the customer won’t be back. Everyone from myself to local farmers to our management and every single member of our staff are a part of our team and we all work together to keep everyone happy. It’s not about me, it’s about us.

WE: Tell me about your invitations and journey to the world famous James Beard House in NYC and what those invitations have been like for you.

JS: It was really an honor to be invited every time I’ve been asked, but the most recent time for myself and my crew to be able to put together a menu that was so highly grounded in Walton County meant a lot to us. We were cutting up Swamp Cabbage and things like Sable Palm. It was just great to have the opportunity to present our style of Southern Coastal Cuisine. Their organization [James Beard Foundation] is just doing such great things and really pushing the pinnacle for chefs and the whole food establishment across the country. Before my most recent two invitations I had been

there three times with a group of other chefs from Pensacola to promote the culinary society of Pensacola. We even got to cook for the King of Spain when he came to Pensacola for the 450th Anniversary, and because of that we were invited to the James Beard House and presented with an award for that. It’s really just been one of the biggest honors I could ever hope for as a chef.

Writer’s Note: For those of you not familiar with the James Beard Foundation, their mission is to celebrate, nurture, and honor chefs and other leaders making America’s food culture more delicious, diverse, and sustainable for everyone. They also maintain the historic James Beard House in NYC’s Greenwich Village as a special culinary presentation place for visiting chefs. Guest chefs are selected through the Foundation’s director who seek out noteworthy talent on a national level. Only chefs with the highest of reputations of excellence are given the honor of presenting as Guest Chef of the James Beard Foundation.

WE: At this point and having done all you have done with the successes of the various restaurants, how involved are you on a day-to-day basis in the operations of the individual eateries, and what does that involve?

JS: You know, at a certain point the focus begins to be on the growth of the brand, however, we’ve now brought in some great professionals to oversee a lot of that and make sure the brand maintains its reputation and grows, so now I’m back doing what I like and in the kitchen cooking a lot more. Even as a restaurant owner, I’m a chef at heart. I’d rather be in the kitchen 60 hours a week than in the office for 10 hours.

WE: After doing so much at such a successful level what is the next aspiration?

JS:[laughing] Yeah, there are some new things that are coming, that we can’t really talk about on record right now, but I promise you, you’ll know when they happen.

WITH ALL 2021 BOARDS

WE: Tell me about some of the things you like to do personally when you’re not busy working and coming up with new ventures and growth strategies. What are some of your passions beyond cooking, some hobbies you have?

JS: I like to cook [laughing]. I like to entertain. Some of the things I’ve put on the back burner I’m trying to do more now.

I’ve got all the gear to go fishing again. I have some really great people working for us and managing for us who don’t need me to micromanage them, so I’m at a place where I can get out and do some of that again. Want to go fishing?

“WE STAND BEHIND OUR BOARDS AS MUCH AS WE STAND UP ON THEM. THAT’S WHY WE ARE NOW OFFERING A 5-YEAR WARRANTY.”

For more information about Chef Jim Shirley and the Jim Shirley group of restaurants check them out online and through their social media sites, but more importantly just get to one of their great restaurants and discover their unique flavor. I promise, you’ll be glad you did.

Will Estell is a 25 year veteran writer turned editor, with over 200 published articles in various magazines, as well as numerous online articles in an array of genres. He’s been instrumental in founding eleven titles from concept to fruition, both for other publishing companies and his own partnerships. He’s a father of three who makes his home in Destin, Florida, along with his lovely girlfriend, ABC 3 news anchor, Laura Hussey. When he isn’t writing or creating, he enjoys spending time outdoors, and on the beach, attending live music events, and playing with cars… real ones.

John Hibbard - CEO & Co-Founder

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SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2021 • 23

24 •

VIP • Pescado

Thomas & Jeri Minor, Andy Hernandez

Gabrielle Guidry, Estlelle Eiserloh, Claire Jolly, Mary Richar & Megan Andries

Chateau d’Esclans Wine Tasting Story & Photography by Jeff Watson

T

he Courtyard at Pescado, nestled in the cobblestone streets of Rosemary Beach, is the perfect setting for tastings of all types. A few months back, it was fine Bourbons on Derby Day. For a more summer flare, this months event was a wonderful seasonal favorite with the Chateau d’Esclans Wine Tasting.

Guests were encouraged to dress to impress in their favorite rose, blush and cream attire and that they did!

Guests sipped wonderful rose’ along with appetizers while they enjoyed elegant music by David Seering.

Watch our calendar of events for the next tasting at Pescado. It is always a wonderful evening of socializing with friends and new acquaintances!

Natalie Hughes & Lisa Dallas

Helaine Milch & Shonna Lester

Danna Yarmowich, Tracie Dugas, Jerri Minor & Lisa Hernandez

Chad & Denise Billman, Chef Ken Duenas, Holly Wright & Joe Freer For these photos and more, follow us on Facebook.

Giana Goins, Holly Wright, Megan Clements & Jessica Perryman

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2021 • 25

Wine Tasting

Bride to Be? Are you a

Carol & JC Larrea, Bill & Jenny Bergner

David Seering

Mike & Gul Bowman

Giana Goins, Holly Wright, Megan Clements & Jessica Perryman

Thomas & Jerri Minor, Brian & Danna Yarmowich, Jeff & Tracie Dugas, Andy & Lisa Hernandez

26 •

For these photos and more, follow us on Facebook.

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28 •

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2021 • 29

30 •

VIP • Santa Rosa Beach

Charles & Beverly Bongiorno

Sarah Brazwell & Maggie Yelverton

Patrick & Donna Hoffman

Santa Rosa Beach Golf & Beach Club

New Members Mixer Story & Photography by Jessica Clark

Johanna & John Stephens, Jeff Watson

T

he Santa Rosa Beach Golf and Beach Club recently held a New Member Mixer to welcome those who have recently joined the club. It was a great opportunity to meet and mingle with new faces. Everyone participated in a fun questionnaire game which quickly made everyone feel like old friends. This is such an an exciting time for new members to join, as the club house and golf course are going through major renovations which will be complete this fall. All of the SRB members, new and old, are excited about the changes including an all new logo recently unveiled!

Jennifer & Michael Sloboda

Jessica & Jason Allen For these photos and more, follow us on Facebook.

John Prudhomme & Elena Ryazhapova

Cindy & Ron Kloak, Paul Breitman

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2021 • 31

DETOX DESTRESS DEFOCUS

New Members Mixer

#VIVOSPA30A

Christian Pinckard, Matt Raymond & Dan Drake

VIVOSPASALON.COM 11 YRS AS 30A'S PREMIER SPA 2010-2011

Christopher & Ginger Halbfoster G R AY TO N B E A C H , F L

I W A N T T O R E A L LY GET TO KNOW MY FISH.

Michael Sloboda

Brian & Laura Burnsed

32 •

For these photos and more, follow us on Facebook.

Friday October 29th

Saturday October 30th

PRE-RIDE EVENTS

EXTRAS

WITCHES BREW

SILENT AUCTION & RAFFLE

PRE-FLIGHT WITCH NIGHT WAKE UP WITCHES!

THE RIDES FOUNDERS RIDE

BLUEWATER RIDE

SUNSET RIDE

WATERSOUND RIDE

WITCH CONTEST

Benefiting:

GOBLIN RIDE www.WitchRide.com

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2021 • 33

Calendar

SEPTEMBER 2021 SUNDAY

MONDAY

TUESDAY

WEDNESDAY

THURSDAY

FRIDAY

SATURDAY

2

RUN/SUP Community1 Run Run/SUP 7 am

Seaside Farmers Market Seaside 9 am

HumpDay Market Monet Monet 10 am

5

12

Rosemary Beach Farmer’s Market Rosemary Beach 9 am

Labor Day

6

7

8

9

13

13 14

15

16

RUN/SUP Community Run Run/SUP 7 am HumpDay Market Monet Monet 10 am

CAA Art on Demand Foster Gallert 12 pm Gulf Place Wine Walkabout Gulf Place 5 pm MKAF Concerts Mattie Kelley 7pm

19 Rosemary Beach Farmer’s Market Rosemary Beach 9 am International Talk Like A Pirate Day Baytownw 5:30 pm

26 Rosemary Beach Farmer’s Market Rosemary Beach 9 am

DCWAF: A Taste of Italy The Henderson 3 pm Alys Beach Supper Club Series Alys Beach 6 pm

27

22

21

20

17

Golfing FORE Good Charity Eagle Springs Golf and Recreation Center 8:30 am

One Ocean Film Tour Watersound Origins Village Commons Lawn 7 pm Emerald Coast Theatre Company : Nunsense ECTC 7:30 pm

23

24

PWMC Annual Harvest Moon Celebration Eden Gardens State Park 12 pm

ECTC: Cabaret on the Boulevard ECTC 7:30 pm

Walk into Fall Wine Dinner Purses with a Purpose Pescado 6:30 pm Destin Commons 12 pmm

Nawlins Funk Party North Beach Social 5 pm Artful Dining -MKAF Vintij 6 pm

28

SoWal Bocce Tournament MKAF Concerts: KickNorth Beach Social 5 pm stand Jenny Mattie Kelley 7 pm

29

RUN/SUP Free Community Run Run/SUP 7 am Grand Opening and Ribbon Cutting Curves on the Go 9 am HumpDay Market Monet Monet 10 am

34 •

10

Corcoran Reverie Ribbon RUN/SUP Free CommuCutting nity Run Corcoran Reverie 10 am Run/SUP 7 am HumpDay Market Monet Monet 10 am

4

3

30

MKAF Concerts: Chasin Jaymie Mattie Kelley 7 pm

Pensacola Seafood Festival William Bartram Memorial Park - 11 am

11

Seaside Farmers Market Seaside 9 am

18

International Coastal Cleanup Beach Accesses 8:45 am

Burgers, Bourbon & Beer Festival Destin Harbor 12 pm One Ocean Film Tour Watersound Origins Village Commons Lawn 7 pm

25 Grand Boulevard Farmers Market Grand Boulevard 9 am Seaside Farmers Market Seaside 9 am Blues, Brews & BBQ Horse Power Pavillion 3 pm

of E v e nt s SUNDAY

MONDAY

1

TUESDAY

WEDNESDAY

OCTOBER 2021 THURSDAY

2

5

FRIDAY

SATURDAY

1

2

Seaside Farmers Market Seaside 9 am Pumpkin Patch Grand Opening Camp Helent 9 am Harborfest Harborwalk Village 11 am

3 Rosemary Beach Farmer’s Market Rosemary Beach 9 am

4

5

MKAF Concerts: The Heather Hayes Experience Mattie Kelley 7 pm

ECTC Storytellers Emerald Coast Theatre 7:30 pm

Harborfest Harborwalk Village 11 am

9

8

7

6

Baytowne Wharf Beer Festival Baytowne 6 pm

Seaside Farmers Market Seaside 9 am ArtsQuest Fine Arts Festival Grand Boulevard 12 pm Houndfest Idyll Hounds 12 pm

10

11

Forgotten Music Festival Port St Joe 12 pm Seaside Lyceum Cinema Seaside Lyceum 8 pm

Seaside Lyceum Cinema Seaside Lyceum 8 pm

17

18

Rosemary Beach Farmer’s Walton County Fair Walton County Fairgrounds Market 12 pm Rosemary Beach 9 am

Rosemary Beach Farmer’s Market Rosemary Beach 9 am

12

Walton County Fair Walton County Fairgrounds 12 pm

19

13

14

15

Walton County Fair Walton County Fairgrounds 12 pm

Walton County Fair Walton County Fairgrounds 12 pm

Walton County Fair Walton County Fairgrounds 12 pm

RUN/SUP Community Run Walton County Fairgrounds 7 am

Back Beach BBQ : Beer Dinner Back Beach BBQ 6 pm

Blast on the Bay Songwriters Fest Port St Joe 12 pm

20

Veterans and First Responders Appreciation Texas Roadhouse 11:30 am

Panama City Beach Oktoberfest Aaron Bessant Park 11 am Wine Walk About Gulf Place 5 pm

21

22

Trick or Treat Seaside 4 pm Trick or Treat Street Baytowne 6 pm

24

31

Chautaugua Winery’s Harvest Festival Chautauga Winery 9 am

23 Bloody Mary Festival The Market Shops 11 am Sinfonia : Physcho Film Outdoor Concert Mattie Kelly 7:30 pm

Caring and Sharing Fall Fashion Show Monet Monet 12:30 pm Rosemary Beach Farmer’s Market Rosemary Beach 9 am

Walton County Fair Walton County Fairgrounds 12 pm

Seaside Farmers Market Seaside 9 am

Bubbly Baytowne Baytowne 5 pm

Panama City Beach Oktoberfest Aaron Bessant Park 11 am

16

Seaside Farmers Market Seaside 9 am

25

26

27

28

29

Witches of South Walton Barktoberfest Grand Boulevard 4:30 pm Charity Ride South Walton 7 am

30

Seaside Farmers Market Seaside 9 am

Festival of Arts Destin Commons Hallow- MKAF 9 am een Haunt Destin Commons 6 pm Monstrous Halloween Rosemary 10 am Witch of South Walton South Walton 10:30 am

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2021 • 35

photos that inspire

Beach Family Sessions We offer sunset and sunrise beach sessions to capture the perfect photo of your family. We offer luxury packages as well as full and mini sessions.

Natural Light Photography Studio We have a full studio located in Blue Mountain Beach. If you want that beautiful light and airy look, this is the perfect, hassle free location. No matter the weather or challenge, the studio is always an alternative for your family.

Town Sessions Not everyone wants to be photographed on the towns to capture you in your favorite places along the scenic highway.

Light + Airy Beach Photography on 30A | Studio + Beach Erica Lambert Photography Studio 2052 W County Hwy 30A, Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459 | 850.904.6689 www.ericalambertlifestyle.com 36 •

JULY/AUGUST 2021 • 31

football/ fashion

2021

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2021 • 37

Beach Folly Katherine Wheeler shopbeachfolly.com 38 •

Gypsy Rose Gypsy Rose Crew gypsyroseapparel.com

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2021 • 39

Coast Hippie Mark Hotze Kayla Burleson coasthippie.com

40 •

Billabong Carly Sawyer billabongdestin.com

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2021 • 41

Jewel Toffier Sonnet Singleton Location: FOOW Restaurant at WaterColor Inn

jeweltoffier.com

42 •

Jewel Toffier Gayle Schoettle Location: FOOW Restaurant at WaterColor Inn

jeweltoffier.com

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2021 • 43

VIP • Distillery 98

Ryan Orr, Amy Milligan & Jon Harstvedt

SWHS TOUCHDOWN CLUB

CASINO NIGHT

Molly Aston, Maggie McCowen, Morganne Martin & Kelley Banjoman

Story & Photography by Amy Milligan

T

he South Walton High School recently held a fundraiser for the 2021 Varsity Football team. Parents and fans gathered at Distillery 98 for a fun themed Casino Night with games and prizes. Horseshoe Kitty performed live putting on quite a show while every one mingled and danced. Make sure and check out this years Varsity Schedule and come out and support the team!

Ashley Dodson & Allie VanLandingham

Pearce Spurlin, Bradley Touchstone & Hunter Harmon

44 •

Cody Christopher & Matt Christopher

Mary Brandman, Jennifer Geoghagan & Morgan Palmer For these photos and more, follow us on Facebook.

Stephen Noble, Dave Roberts, Coach Phil Tisa, Corelle Banjoman, Fred Leopold & David Page

John Hodges, Dave Roberts & Coach Phil Tisa

Zack Kennison & Harrison Holditch

Amy Milligan, Krissy Hawk, Courtney Roberts, Julie Fancher, Michelle Hodges, Laurie Corbin & Morgan Palmer

Julie Fancher, Michelle Hodges, Amy Milligan & Michelle Touchstone

Matt Brandman, Hunter Harmon, Randy Geoghagan, Whit Whitaker & Vincent Gallucci For these photos and more, follow us on Facebook.

Suzanne Harmen & Jennifer Geoghagan

David Kapitanoff & Matt Christopher

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2021 • 45

SEC FOOTBALL ALABAMA CRIMSON TIDE

WEEK 1

WEEK 2

WEEK 3

WEEK 4

WEEK 5

WEEK 6

vs. MIAMI

MERCER

at

SOUTHERN MISS

OLE MISS

at

RICE

TEXAS

A&M GEORGIA SOUTHERN vs.atTEXAS Arlington

GEORGIA

OLE MISS

AKRON

ALABAMA STATE

PENN STATE

at

GEORGIA STATE

LSU

at

GEORGIA

FLORIDA ATLANTIC

SOUTH FLORIDA

at

ALABAMA

TENNESSEE

KENTUCKY

at

VANDERBILT

vs. CLEMSON

UAB

SOUTH CAROLINA

VANDERBILT

at

ARKANSAS

AUBURN

ULM

MISSOURI

CHATTANOOGA

at

FLORIDA

LSU

AUBURN

KENTUCKY

at Atlanta

ARKANSAS RAZORBACKS AUBURN TIGERS FLORIDA GATORS GEORGIA BULLDOGS

at Charlotte

KENTUCKY WILDCATS LOUISIANA STATE TIGERS OLE MISS REBELS

at

UCLA

MISSOURI TIGERS SOUTH CAROLINA GAMECOCKS TENNESSEE VOLUNTEERS TEXAS A&M AGGIES VANDERBILT COMMODORES 46 •

SOUTH CAROLINA

at McNEESE STATE CENTRAL MICHIGAN MISSISSIPPI STATE

vs. LOUISVILLE

AUSTIN PEAY

TULANE

OPEN DATE

LOUISIANA TECH

NORTH CAROLINA STATE

at

LSU

CENTRAL MICHIGAN

KENTUCKY

at Atlanta

MISSISSIPPI STATE BULLDOGS

FLORIDA

at

MEMPHIS

SE MISSOURI STATE BOSTONatCOLLEGE

EAST CAROLINA

at

GEORGIA

KENTUCKY

BOWLING GREEN

PITTSBURGH

TENNESSEE TECH

FLORIDA

KENT STATE

vs. COLORADO

NEW MEXICO

EAST TENNESSEE STATE

at

STANFORD

EASTERN ILLINOIS

at

at Denver

COLORADO STATE

at

at

at

at

at

ALABAMA

at

ARKANSAS

at

TEXAS A&M

OPEN DATE

TENNESSEE

NORTH TEXAS

TROY

TENNESSEE

at

SOUTH CAROLINA

MISSOURI

vs. ARKANSAS MISSISSIPPI STATE at Arlington GEORGIA

TEXAS A&M

UCONN

at

ALABAMA at

FLORIDA

SCHEDULE 2021 WEEK 7

WEEK 8

WEEK 9

WEEK 10

WEEK 11

WEEK 12

WEEK 13

at

TENNESSEE

OPEN DATE

LSU

NEW MEXICO STATE

ARKANSAS

at

AUBURN

UAPB

OPEN DATE

MISSISSIPPI STATE

LSU

at

MISSOURI

ARKANSAS

at

OPEN DATE

OLE MISS

TEXAS A&M

LSU

at

OPEN DATE

KENTUCKY

OPEN DATE

at

GEORGIA

OPEN DATE

FLORIDA

MISSISSIPPI STATE AUBURN

at Little Rock

vs. GEORGIA

at at

at

ALABAMA

at MISSISSIPPI STATE SOUTH CAROLINA

ALABAMA

at

SOUTH CAROLINA

SAMFORD

MISSOURI

FLORIDA STATE

vs. FLORIDA

MISSOURI

TENNESSEE

at

CHARLESTON SOUTHERN

GEORGIA TECH

at

MISSISSIPPI STATE

TENNESSEE

at

VANDERBILT

NEW MEXICO STATE

LOUISVILLE

OLE MISS

at

OPEN DATE

ALABAMA

at

ARKANSAS

ULM

TEXAS A&M

TENNESSEE

at

LSU

AUBURN

at

LIBERTY

TEXAS A&M

VANDERBILT

MISSISSIPPI STATE

ALABAMA

at

VANDERBILT

KENTUCKY

at

ARKANSAS

AUBURN

at

TENNESSEE STATE

OLE MISS

TEXAS A&M

OPEN DATE

VANDERBILT

GEORGIA

at

SOUTH CAROLINA

FLORIDA

ARKANSAS

VANDERBILT

TEXAS A&M

at

OPEN DATE

FLORIDA

MISSOURI

at

AUBURN

CLEMSON

OLE MISS

ALABAMA

at

OPEN DATE

KENTUCKY

at

GEORGIA

SOUTH ALABAMA

VANDERBILT

at

SOUTH CAROLINA

OPEN DATE

AUBURN

OLE MISS

at

PRAIRIE VIEW

LSU

MISSOURI

OPEN DATE

KENTUCKY

at

at

MISSOURI

at SOUTH CAROLINA MISSISSIPPI STATE

at Jacksonville

at Jacksonville

at

OLE MISS

at at

at

at

at

TENNESSEE SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2021 • 47

Welcome to our family of VIP Magazines.

Jeff Watson Founder/Publisher 48 •

Celebrating Life... One Event at a Time!

vipmag.com

The Art of Living

FRIENDS, FOOD & FANDOM Some of the author’s favorite tips for pre-game success: • Prepare as much of the food as possible in advance. Premix your drinks, marinate your chicken, make the dips, and pack the cookies.

Tailgating Done Right COOKBOOK

N

othing beats wearing your favorite jersey, surrounding yourself with family and friends, and grilling savory food for the big game. Whether you’re at the stadium parking lot tailgating or hosting a viewing party at your house, this cookbook has 150 tasty, crowd pleasing headin-the-game recipes that are sure to score big!

“Tailgating Done Right Cookbook” offers dozens of crowd-pleasing appetizers, entrees, snacks, sides and desserts. Among the appetizer recipes: MVP Snack Mix, Texas Caviar served with Good Sport Pita Chips, Line of Scrimmage Dip, and Tailgater’s Best Fiesta Cups (A super idea: serve these in plastic to-go cups and use the remainder of the refried beans in this recipe to make Macho Nacho Dogs featured in this cookbook).

Entrees include High-Octane Chili, Cheesy Chicken Sliders, Walking Tacos, Batter Up Beer Burgers, Shortstop Southwest Burgers, Trade-Worthy Tacos, Beer Tub Brats and Away Game Bacon-Avocado Pizzas among other recipes.

Guests love a good Potato Bar using grill-baked potatoes with tantalizing toppers. Want a unique sideline? Try the Firecracker Watermelon using mini watermelons set on a hot grill rack for a few moments. At serving time, drizzle the slices with lime juice and honey and top with jalapeño slices, crumbled feta cheese, and fresh cilantro.

There are several bread recipes like Play Action Pull-Apart Bread that serves a crowd, Beer Bread, and Cornbread Slabs.

For guests with a sweet tooth try the Lime of

• If you’re headed to the game, check the venue’s website for tailgating rules so there are no surprises when you arrive.

• Frozen bottles of water will not only keep food cold in your cooler, they will also give you ice-cold drinking water as the ice melts.

Story by Lyda Kay Ferree, The Southern Lifestyles Lady.

Photography courtesy of Fox Chapel Publishing.

Scrimmage Dip (may also be an appetizer) whose ingredients include cream cheese, sweetened condensed milk, key lime yogurt, pina colada yogurt, vanilla flavoring, and lemon juice served with fruit (The cookbook author likes strawberries, orange segments, and pineapple chunks as accompaniments for this dip.) Some of the Postgame Desserts featured in this cookbook include Victory-Is-Ours Margarita Bars (yum!), Winning Sugar Cookies, Hail Mary Cast Iron Cookie baked in a cast iron skillet (serves a crowd), Coconut-Limebackers, Extra Point Strawberry Cheesecake Poppers,, Pit Crew Brownies, and Banana Split Sticks consisting of bite-sized square brownies on wooden skewers alternating with banana chunks, pineapple chunks, and strawberries. For extra yum, serve with marshmallow ice cream topping for dipping. Triumphant Brown Sugar Cake, Trophy-Worthy Donut Shortcakes, and Out-of Bounds Boozy Banana Boats round out the chapter of Postgame Desserts.

At the end of the tailgating cookbook are some simple “Friendly Rivals” desserts like Honey Peaches, Spiced Apple Rings, Brown Sugar Pears, and Zesty Blackberries. Also, try the Overtime Fruit Pizza, Two-Minute Warning Toffee, and Close Game Peanut Butter Popcorn.

“Tailgating Done Right Cookbook” has tips to prep ahead of time and helpful “Huddle Up” tricks, cook all the classic game-day fare everyone loves and take it to the next level. Whether your team wins or loses, your food will always be the MVP!

• Make sure you have more fuel or charcoal or for your grill than you think you’ll need. Also, think about how you’ll pack and bring home a dirty grill.

• Heavy-duty aluminum foil and disposable foil pans are great for reheating food on the grill.

• Car power socketcompatible slow cookers are great for keeping chilis and dips warm, but I still recommend actually making them ahead of time.

• Take trash bags or big plastic bins for hauling out your trash when you leave.

• Pack a few portable chairs and a folding table.

• Using a tablecloth makes for easier cleanup, no matter where you are.

• Disposable wet wipes or good ol’ soap and water are a must for messy fingers. I do not recommend wiping hands on game day jerseys!

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2021 • 49

Holy Moly Guacamole Makes about 2 cups Peel, pit, and dice 3 ripe avocados and toss into a bowl with 1 tablespoon lime juice; mash with a fork to reach the desired consistency (chunky or creamy—your call). Stir in 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin, 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper, 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro, 2 tablespoons finely chopped red onion, 2 Roma tomatoes (seeded and diced), 1/2 jalapeño pepper (seeded and finely chopped), and 1/2 teaspoon minced garlic.

Transfer to a serving bowl and sprinkle with a little black pepper. Serve with tortilla chips or veggies.

1976 Airstream available for pop up events , such as bachelorette and birthday parties, as well as area festivals!

Gypsy Rose Boutique is locally Florida owned and operated. We embody the spirit of the 70’s with a boho coastal vibe. You will find the majority of our brands are made in the USA. We offer a variety of candles, gifts, accessories and apparel. ✨Gypsy Rose Boutique✨ Proverbs 31:25 www.gypsyroseapparel.com IG @gypsyroseapparel | FB @gypsyroseboutiquemarket 3421 Bannerman Rd Ste 101 | 1350 Market Street Ste 104 Tallahassee, FL 32312 Tallahassee Florida 32312 850.727.4437

50 •

Huddle Up! To store for a short time, press plastic wrap directly onto the surface and refrigerate.

Touchdown Cheese Ball Serves a crowd 2 (8 oz.) pkgs. cream cheese, softened 1 tsp. Italian seasoning 8 oz. finely shredded mozzarella cheese 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese 3 green onions, thinly sliced 1/2 cup chopped cooked bacon 1 (4 oz.) jar diced pimentos, drained 2 (5 oz.) pkgs. mini pepperoni slices, divided 1 slice white cheese (any kind) Crackers, pretzels, and/or breadsticks Line a small bowl with plastic wrap, letting the ends of the wrap hang over the side of the bowl; set aside.

Beat the cream cheese until light and fluffy. Beat in the Italian seasoning, mozzarella, and Parmesan.

Mix in the green onions, bacon, pimentos, and 1 package of the pepperoni. Press the cheese mixture firmly into the bowl and cover with the ends of the plastic wrap. Remove the plasticcovered ball from the bowl and press it into a football shape. Chill at least 2 hours.

Remove the cheese ball from the plastic wrap and let stand 15 minutes. Finish your “football” by covering the cheese ball with more pepperoni slices, pressing to adhere. Cut the slice of cheese into strips and use to decorate the top like football laces. Serve with crackers, pretzels, and/or breadsticks.

HWY 30A @ GULF PLACE SANTA ROSA BEACH, FLORIDA 850.622.2358 JEWELTOFFIER.COM

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2021 • 51

52 •

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ProffittPR.com SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2021 • 53

VOTED BEST WATER SPORTS EXPERIENCE 2019 & 2020

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• • • • •

WETINC

r e t a W g n i d a e R Story by Captain Mark

“ L

Hotze, 30a Light Tackle

The shapes of the dunes, the ripples in the sand, the color of the water, and even the sound of the sand can tell the story of a beach...

earning how to read the beach can make everyone enjoy the beautiful waters of the Emerald Coast – from seasoned fisherman to first time beach goers. The shapes of the dunes, the ripples in the sand, the color of the water, and even the sound of the sand can tell the story of a beach, but the most important thing to realize is that things are constantly changing – the beach moves.

From heat, wind, waves, biological influences, tides, and especially currents, it moves. In the surf, each wave moves a little bit of the sand, and over seemingly countless waves, this has a cumulative effect that we can use to stay safer (and catch more fish).

Next time you’re on the beach, look to see where the waves are breaking, and where they’re not. Waves break due to a shallowing of the water - the wave begins to slow down due to friction on the bottom and the back half of the wave starts to build up over the front.

Think of a car slamming on the brakes – everything flies to the front. Wherever there is a beach with any waves at all, a bar must form.

Luckily, the crystal-clear water we normally have allows most people to see the shallower areas – the bars, and the darker, deeper troughs in between.

On our beaches, typically more than one bar will form. The beach side of the bar will normally be steep from the waves shaping and reshaping the sand, and the back side will be more gradual. You’ve probably tripped over this walking out into the water. Once the water moves over this bar, it needs to find a way back out; gravity is pulling the water back to sea.

Sometimes this water moves parallel to the

beach – a longshore current. This is the one you feel when you look back at your chairs and all of the sudden, you’re a lot farther west than you started (most longshore currents in the northern Gulf Coast run east to west).

That water is trying to get back out, and rushes away from the beach, through the sand bars and back to deeper water – often through a rip current.

The physics are straightforward, but it can often be hard to see. The beaches are constantly changing, but one thing is for certain – water acting different will appear different. Watch the waves break, and then follow the water back out. Look for a pool of water near the beach.

Typically you’ll find some of it draining parallel to the beach, and then try and find where it gets back out through the bar. Look for a channel of water that’s calmer than the rest, or water with more foam or debris than either side of it retreating out to sea. On calm, sunny days, it’s often slightly darker than the bars

”

and easier to see. Unfortunately, a break in the incoming waves can also point out the currents – but this is where most people inadvertently enter the water because it looks calm! Rip currents typically move at 1-2 feet per second, but stronger ones can pull at 8 feet per second (for reference, Michael Phelps can swim butterfly around 6.5 ft/s).

Learning to read the beach will not only keep you safer, but if you think about the sediment and food being carried out with the currents, it can help you pick the best places to fish. Fish like to use these breaks in the sandbars to get in and out of troughs and find food.

Take a second to enjoy your curiosity and watch the water next time you find yourself on one of our beaches. Look around, Be mindful of the flag system – they’re here for a reason!

For Gulf conditions and flag updates text “SAFETY” to 31279 or look at the forecasts and live webcam links provided at www.30alighttackle.com/forecast.

Chart Credit: Visit South Walton

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2021 • 55

56 •

VIP • 30A Avenue

Little’s Lunches & Kitchen

Grand Opening

Steve & Shannon Richmond

Scott Rockwood

Debra Eldridge & Shannon Richmond

Corey Gros & Heather Guidry

Kimberly Johnson

Bryan, Daphne & Brian Alan Corr

Story & Photography by Jeff Watson

L

ittle’s Lunches & Kitchen, located in 30A Avenue, recently held its grand opening. Little’s Lunches partners with local farms to offer fresh ingredients for its products including chef crafted meals, private jarred products and market foods. Come by and experience chef crafted entrees made fresh and ready to heat at your vacation home!

Reagan Ferem & Andrew Turner For these photos and more, follow us on Facebook.

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2021 • 57

VIProfile

Casey Kearney Writing Her Story One Song at a Time

Story by Will Estell. Photography by Brittney Sanchez.

I

t’s a hot sunny Saturday in Montgomery Alabama, and there in a dusty steel arena, kicked back in a folding chair, watching her three children and husband compete in rodeo events sits Casey Kearney.

The same Casey Kearney I watched rock a stage, entertaining festival goers from all over this great country just a week before.

The day after the sixteen hours of rodeoing and traveling, this thirtysomething mom—who also happens to be a songwriter, performer, and teacher—was partaking in this very interview. On a Sunday, because she had to homeschool her three kids on Monday… before heading to 30A for a gig that afternoon.

Well, that, and there are always horses to feed, chickens to gather eggs from, and the typical never-ending chores that go along with farm life. Get the picture? She’s busy.

Did I mention she’s also working on material for an upcoming new album, and just this summer got her single “Waffle House” in every single Waffle House juke box in all 1200 locations in the entire country? That’s what you call a balancing act, and that my friends is a first row seat to the real-life and times of this small town country girl turned popular Northwest Florida based music sensation, Casey Kearney.

Even in the somewhat tumultuous times we’ve all been through in the past year, Casey’s notoriety and demand has been growing. This summer alone, she’s opened for country sensation Deana Carter at a Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation show, been one of just three Northwest Florida local musicians invited to perform at this summer’s massive Moon Crush Music Festival, near Destin, and recently opened for Nashville favorite Drake White at a private show on 30A in August. Additionally, she’s played dates in Nashville, Gatlinburg, Huntsville, and even at Dollywood over the past two months.

Kearney was also invited to perform in front of almost 40,000 Atlanta Braves fans, not once, but twice, in their 2021 season. She performed 58 •

God Bless America once, then started the game with the National Anthem about a month later. In fact her performance has garnered over 1,000,000 online and social media views to date.

What’s perhaps surprising, yet inspiring to many, is that Casey’s entrance into writing and performing came once she was already a wife and mom. As she tells it, “I honestly did not know I could actually sing until my late 20’s. I could not play any instruments and I had never written songs before. Both of my parents sang when I was growing up and both were amazing, but I never did.”

As for the songwriting, Casey goes on to say, “Songwriting started as an outlet to release feelings I was dealing with at the time, then evolved into something I really enjoyed. I had an extreme case of stage fright and that took a lot of work to get over. Learning to play instruments between our children’s nap times and daily loads of laundry was challenging. I had two little ones and was pregnant with my third.

When I meet musicians that have played their whole lives I certainly think about how I hope they don’t take that advantage for granted.”

Having known Casey for some years, I’ve always been intrigued by her ability to write songs that seem to come from the heart and tell a very personal story, in both her lyrics and the emotion that comes through when she performs her original songs live. When I asked her where this comes from she explained, “It’s my real-life. I would consider myself a literal writer. I can paint a picture with words, but its typically going to be a pretty clear message, not near as abstract as some writers are with their stories. So much of what I write comes from pieces of my life, stories people tell me, and things I am feeling passionate about.” As an example of this her song “Waffle House” came from a true story about South Walton locals, Kelli and Rob Smithmier.

“They said, ‘We got married and we slow danced in a Waffle House, and that was our wedding,’” Kearney said. “And I was like—‘That sounds just like a country song!’”

In addition to working on a new album, and just competing two video shoots for recent songs she’s written and performed, Casey manages to play gigs multiple times a week in some of the hottest spots along 30A, Destin, and the Northwest Florida Gulf Coast, in between recording trips to Nashville, and appearances outside the area. Still, family is first when it comes to this singer/songwriter. Kearney’s husband Scott and their three children Levi, Micah and Annabelle, are the center of her world.

She goes on to say, “my performance schedule is unique because I choose not to play every night. I homeschool my three kids, and they are very active in rodeo so I like to be there for as much as I can. I typically play 2-4 nights a week. This year on average 1-2 per week have been public shows and the others private events a few times a week.”

This is one artist that truly seems to be writing her story, one song at a time, and If you’ve seen her perform live, you certainly understand why it’s one we’re all pretty lucky to be sharing in.

Will Estell is a 25 year veteran writer turned editor, with over 200 published articles in various magazines, as well as numerous online articles in an array of genres. He’s been instrumental in founding eleven titles from concept to fruition, both for other publishing companies and his own partnerships. He’s a father of three who makes his home in Destin, Florida, along with his lovely girlfriend, ABC 3 news anchor, Laura Hussey.

When he isn’t writing or creating, he enjoys spending time outdoors, and on the beach, attending live music events, and playing with cars… real ones.

30A FLYFISHING/ CASTING SCHOOL Group or individual lessons available!

Capt. Jack Burns 850.842.8869 CaptJack@flytide30a.com www.flytide30a.com SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2021 • 59

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VIP • Emerald Coast Theatre Company

Kevin O’Rourke, Donnie Grosskopf & Kristin Moffitt

Power of Networking Lunch

Dana Hahn & Meredith Neese

Lisa Foster, Chelsea Fox & Lisa Bulriss

Story & Photography by Jeff Watson

T

he Emerald Coast Theatre Company recently held the August Power of Networking Lunch.

This monthly event, hosted by the Walton Chamber, is a great opportunity for chamber members to mingle and network while enjoying a great lunch provided this month by Cantina Laredo. Nathanael Fisher and the ECTC, which graciously hosted this event, gave a wonderful presentation explaining the important role the theatre plays in our community. They even persuaded those attending to do a little acting themselves with some friendly competition between tables. Be sure to check out this fall’s lineup at emeraldcoasttheatre.org.

Jennifer Cooper & Laura Andrews For these photos and more, follow us on Facebook.

Walton County Chamber of Commerce

Brenda Gray & Pastor David Butler

Brian Haugen, Jamie Hall & Nathanael Fisher

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2021 • 61

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MASERATI PENSACOLA

2021

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