Emerald Coast Magazine August-September 2012 Issue

EmEraldCoastmagazinE.Com August–September 2012 5

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T h e e m e r a l d C o a s T m a g a z i n e

$3.95 AUG-SEP 2012

www.emeraldcoastmagazine.com A product of Rowland Publishing, Inc.

Picture This

As the dog days of summer heat up, we offer a fresh angle on the art of talented local photographers, repurposed antiques, cool back-to-school trends, adventurous helicopter rides and more.

FASCINATING FRANKLIN COUNTYOur favorite things to do, see and taste

A PLACE WITH (RE)PURPOSEGive new life to old castoffs

OYSTERS!We crack open all the myths and serve up a dozen of our favorites

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4 August–September 2012 EmEraldCoastmagazinE.Com

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F E AT U R E s

44 Picturing a New Point of View We focus in on the fresh perspective of 12 talented EC photographers. By GARRETT spEncER

58 Wearable Art Local designers reinvent style with artful accessories. By ZAndRA WolFGRAm

contents

A WoRd WiTh yoU 08 From the Publisher 10 editor’s note 12 Contributors 13 Feedback 98 the last word

in the e.c.15 Snapshot what’s popping on the eC?

Popcorn Jungle!

16 Chat this emporium has a shiny future, thanks to Penny Vance.

20 Well-Worded margaret biggs’ beautiful book pairs paintings and poetry.

22 What’s Haute? look cool heading back to school.

24 Scene this is what we’ve seen and heard about your emerald Coast colleagues, friends and neighbors.

26 Personality we bag shopping tips from Silver Sands Factory Stores career retailer, bert little.

happenings29 Spotlight Club owner John wehner

brings the beat to the beach.

30 Culture the eC’s lovely leading lady: Shirley Simpson.

34 Calendar the hottest concerts, theater, art exhibits, festivals and more.

37 Social Studies look who was out and about on the eC.

the good life71 Eudaimonia For heaven’s sake …

experience the eC via helicopter!

72 In Motion All aboard! the paddle-boarding phenomenon is for anyone “up” for it.

74 Going Places we’re sweet on all that is “salty” about Franklin County.

78 Habitat Give new life to old cast-offs and your home a renewed sense of place.

81 Gardening rain, rain come and stay … planting rain gardens.

84 Flavor oysters! we serve up a dozen of our favorite bivalve bites.

89 Dining let us guide you to savor the flavors of the emerald Coast.

89 A Taste For... Simple, fresh seafood Ceviche!

91 On the Menu Find out what a tropical vacation tastes like.

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the Emerald Coast magazineaugust + september 2012

Follow us @emeraldcoastmag like us at facebook.com/emeraldcoast

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ProfessionalProfiles || page 65


PublishEr brian e. rowland

Editor Zandra wolfgram

dEsignErs Jennifer ekrut, laura Patrick, Shruti Shah

staFF PhotograPhEr Scott holstein

staFF WritEr Jason dehart

Contributing WritErs Susan benton, Stacey may brady, Jennifer howard, katie Johnson, lis king, karina orr, Audrey Post, Garrett Spencer, Zandra wolfgram

Contributing PhotograPhErs david leslie Anthony, Shelly Swanger, Allison yii

traFFiC Coordinator lisa Sostre

salEs ExECutivEs rhonda Chaloupka, tracy mulligan, Frank Sandro, Chris St. John

EmEraldCoastmagazinE.Com FaCEbook: EmEraldCoast, tWittEr: EmEraldCoastmag

vol. 13, no. 4 august–sEPtEmbEr 2012

thE EmErald Coast magazinE

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.

subsCriPtions & availability $30 a year (six issues). to subscribe, call 850-878-0554 or visit emeraldcoastmagazine.com. eC magazine can be purchased at barnes and noble in destin and books-A-million in destin and at Sun Plaza in mary esther.

Copyright August 2012 emerald Coast magazine inc. All rights reserved. reproduction in whole or part without written permission is prohibited.

Proud member of the Florida magazine Association

PrEsidEnt brian e. rowland

dirECtor oF Publishing oPErations emily bonstangle

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Editorial dEsignEr Jennifer ekrut

graPhiC dEsignErs laura Patrick, Shruti Shah

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Let’s Reveal Our Secret to the WorldAs we all know, Northwest Florida is probably one of the state’s best-kept secrets. For many, that’s a joy because of the quality of life a region enjoys when it is not a booming business metropolis or year-round tourist mecca, like Central and South Florida.

Of course, our secret is not going to stay ours forever. Northwest Florida is already beginning to emerge as a region ripe with assets that make it attractive for smart business development. Indeed, we have a very attractive landscape to build on. The 850 area code has four airports, three seaports, an interstate corridor, affordable and available land, a good climate, universities and good medical care.

And, without question, our natural resources of beaches, pristine ecosystems, wide expanses of state and national forests, historical sites and cultural offerings are a drawing card for the millions of American tourists who visit our region each year, the great majority of them driving in from throughout the Southeast.

But, I would propose, a real long-term economic opportunity may lie with the international tourist market.

During a recent desk-side chat with Martin Owen, the regional marketing director, Gulf Region, for Wyndham Vacation Rentals in Fort Walton Beach, I became more aware of the opportunity that lies at the doorstep of Northwest Florida’s 16 counties. This opportunity will take six to eight years to play out, and it will take the commitment and investment of today’s regional leadership to develop and execute a plan, but there is a potential to bring billions of new economic dollars to the region.

Let’s begin with some facts. In 2011, Florida saw record-high numbers of overseas and Canadian visitors. Canada, the United Kingdom, France and Germany accounted for 53 percent of Florida’s international visitors and they spent just over $7 billion in the state. England, Germany and France spent approximately $1.5 billion of those dollars and I would venture to say most of that money was spent from Orlando south to Miami.

According to Mr. Owen, the European tourist is totally unaware of what our region has to offer, which is the core of our challenge as well as our opportunity. Consider:

• The European tourist typically vacations four to six weeks a year and spends somewhere in the range of $15,000.• Europeans love beaches, ecotourism, historical and cultural vacation opportunities.• Europeans most often travel on group charters.

What Northwest Florida does not have is brand awareness to attract this audience of super consumers. What will it take to get this awareness? Time, financial resources, solid leadership and a long-term laser focused marketing campaign.

Let’s look at a realistic timeline.Year 1: The regional commitment to a plan and resources is made to capture a share of the European tourist market.Year 2: A dedicated team of marketing professionals representing the region meets with tour operators and the European

media and attends trade shows to sell Northwest Florida. Year 3 to 4: The region hosts trips for European operators and media to showcase what we have here.Year 5: Tour operators determine there is a new market and begin to integrate Northwest Florida into their annual vacation

catalogues. And they invest in an aircraft that comes once or twice a week to a 10,000-foot runway. (Those new airplanes take 24 to 36 months to come online.)

Year 6 to 8: Northwest Florida getaways appear in the catalogues and the first jumbo jet touches down, with 350 European travelers ready to stay for three or four weeks, each family leaving $15,000 behind. Conservatively, say this happens once or twice a week for 25 weeks a year. We could soon see an annual economic impact in the billions. And that wouldn’t just affect the tourism industry — those dollars would flow into every community and business sector of Northwest Florida.

Now, back to square one.Wyndham has more than 3,000 rooms in Northwest Florida and has the financial motivation — and

appears to be ready — to be a player in this endeavor. What we need is for the public and private sector in our region to come together to invest in a six-to-eight year plan. And just make it happen.

This is certainly more prudent than buying a yacht or putting on a one-day concert or handing out a Visa gift card for coming to the best-kept secret in a state that is an internationally known and established brand.

It’s time to start working on our plan. It just makes good cents.

— Brian rowland [email protected]

from the publisher

Photo by Scott Holstein

on the coverthis little slugger is Carson bryan, son of bryan and Jessica lester of Freeport.Photo by Kansas Pitts.


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editor’s note

editor’s picksGive Me a Tee

is your favorite book out of print? no worries. Sundog books in Seaside carries out of Print t-shirts, sweatshirts and totes. the line’s products feature iconic and often out of print book covers. not only do you get an artistic t-shirt as soft as a well-worn book to add to your collection, but for each item purchased a book is donated to a community in need through books For Africa. now, that is what we call a bestseller.

doG daysthe dog days of summer means it’s time to let the dogs out. thanks to the newly opened destin dog Park, your four-legged friend can romp, run and carouse with furry buddies in a safe enclosure year round. every time i drive by the dog park it’s filled with happy faces and flying fur. thank you to the city of destin and its citizens for giving all of our destin dogs a fair shake at fun in the sun.

one for The hisTory Brickshelp preserve the fascinating history of the world’s luckiest Fishing Village by joining in the destin history and Fishing museum’s “Footprints in the Sand” brick paver program. Purchase a personalized brick engraved with your name to ensure that the history of destin will be preserved for future generations. For more information, contact kathy marler blue at (850) 837-6611.

Just a Moment Wait a minute! How often do we call out to the hands of time to stop the clocks in a given day? We are trying to catch up, get our bearings or simply take a second to actually be in the moment. But as they say, time marches on.

When something is joyful, we hope the moment lasts a little longer. Yet when something tragic happens, a moment can seem an eternity. Time is curious. Each moment may not seem different from one to another, but depending on how our time is spent, each moment can certainly be worlds apart. Being on hold on the telephone for five minutes can be miserable, while waiting five minutes to be seated for dinner is nothing at all.

When I first moved to the Emerald Coast from Ohio by way of New Orleans in 1999, I didn’t know many people. I moved here without a job and luckily landed what was a dream job for the next eight years as the marketing and public relations director at a large resort. The first person I met in the business community was a clever, vibrant and spirited, if not irreverent, woman who was the public relations manager for the South Walton Tourist Development Council. Her name was Julie Root Delaney.

She immediately made a project of me and within days immersed me in the ways of the Emerald Coast — from bridging business contacts to listing the hottest lunch spots and taking me for cocktails to introduce me to her circle of local professionals, who remain key professional contacts and friends today. She even personally took me to Needa’s in Miramar Beach, her favorite shop for personal gifts, because they offered free giftwrapping. “More time for us to play,” she said of the service.

I am not special. Julie would and did shower this type of attention on anyone whom she felt needed something she could offer. And being the well-connected and social person she was, she often gave business colleagues, friends and causes plenty of attention. She was the special one.

After the death of her first husband, Jim, time with her family became a priority. When she opened her own communications company, Jaz, Inc., accepting projects and clients had one condition: She had to be home in time to greet her son, Stephen, from school.

I loved every minute I had the chance to work with Julie over the years on many creative projects. I admired the focus she gave to her family and the courage with which she faced life’s challenges. And I envied one of her greatest gifts: wit. Julie was never without a quip, turn of phrase or remark to lighten a moment or put things in perspective.

In a moment, a dark moment on April 8, Julie passed away. Certainly, the lives of her friends and business colleagues along the Emerald Coast are now a little dimmer. If she were here, Julie would probably roll her eyes in boredom of such “sappy talk” and be much more interested in celebrating the day with “happy talk” over a cocktail toast.

Here’s to you, Julie, forever in the bright center stage spotlight of our hearts where you belong. Thanks for all of the beautiful moments together.

— Zandra wolfGraM [email protected]

Photo by Allison Yii

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contributors

Stacey May Brady W R I T E RA native memphian, Stacey moved to destin 16 years ago. She has a diverse background that includes hosting a radio talk show, co-hosting a tV morning show, corporate communications, musical theater, fronting a band and assisting in the publication of three books. She keeps up her writing chops in hopes of completing her first novel while she can still feed herself.

▪ In this edition of Culture, Stacey put actress Shirley Simpson where she belongs … in the spotlight.

Susan Benton W R I T E R A Gulf Coast native who now calls 30A home, Susan spent much of her childhood traveling the world as the daughter of a naval officer and graduated from louisiana State university in baton rouge. She is known for her connec-tion to farmers and her passion for promoting local businesses and artisans through her website 30AeAtS.com.

▪ Susan cracks open a dozen of our favorite places for oysters in this edition of Flavor.

Karina Orr W R I T E Rmoving from a sea of corn in illinois to a true emerald sea in 2010, karina enjoys getting to know her new home through writing and edit-ing articles about the people and places that give it personality.

▪ Karina is featured in two stories in this issue: Her Well Worded column shows she has great ‘Vision,’ while her Chat with Penny Vance, owner of the Copper Penny Emporium, is worth every cent. Ph

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feedbackHave a thought? let us know what you think at [email protected], facebook.com/emeraldcoast or through twitter @emeraldcoastmag.

850.837.5565Located Across From The Destin

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you rocked my world with this issue of eC magazine [April/may 2012]. thanks for telling all these fantastic stories ... laurie beck, martha laGuaria-kotite, Jennifer Steele and the bayou Arts Center. i also enjoyed reading about Christi Sheffield and debbie taylor and the other mother-daughter teams.

Seriously, thanks for all you do for our community!Tracy louThain

FreePort

Thanks for such a cool piece on my husband, Angel, and the 7th Special Forces Group [“A ‘Special’ Soldier” April/May 2012]. I got an issue in the mail and must admit (after having Angel deployed for over five months now) it was so wonderful to find him in the pages of EC! It actually brought tears to my eyes!

vernisse orTiZ mirAmAr beACh

i read your article about dexter [“meet dexter and his Father, aka best Friend” June/July 2012] by Greg miller and it made me cry. i had the exact same thing with my basset hound wimby. we thought she was ready, but she ate a treat at the vet. we took her home, and she had a great week. we lost her on thursday. these dogs do things on their own time. i am sorry for your loss.

sTephanie weBBCAnton, GA.

Just got my copy of the June/July issue of eC magazine in the mail today. the story on the mulligans is great. thomas monigan did a fantastic job on the article, Shelly Swanger’s pics were excellent and the layout was great.

lincoln coxdeStin

the layout for the beach boot Camp article [“Calling All Fitness recruits” June/July 2012] is great. Actually the whole issue looks great. think i’ll take this rainy day to read it cover to cover, then plan to take my family berry pickin’!

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Snapshot

Let’s Get a Little CornyA novel eatery has just popped up in Destin, literally. Swing in to Popcorn Jungle, located on the second level of HarborWalk Village, to fill up on nearly three-dozen flavors of gourmet popcorn, specialty sodas and old-style candies.

Todd and CeCe Warton (pictured with their daughter, Skye) fell in love with the Emerald Coast and moved here two years ago. They hope their animated popcorn shop — complete with wild mural and a custom music soundtrack that play into a jungle animal motif — will allow them to put down permanent roots in the area. “This is a ground-up store with a fun and novel concept we haven’t seen much,” says Todd Warton.

This Boston-born entrepreneur hopes locals embrace Popcorn Jungle as an “upscale, family-oriented hangout.” In addition to bags of fresh popcorn, you can also purchase pre-packaged tins and holiday-themed gift baskets. Some popcorn and plush animal package purchases include a donation to local conservation and wildlife rescue organizations. “We wanted to find a way to keep with our animal theme and give back to the community,” Warton explains.

Warton contends there is “certainly an art” to popping great corn. Popcorn chefs shake up fresh batches daily on the premises using two different varieties. “The larger butter corn kernel is great for layering coatings, such as caramel, banana, coconut, while your small kernel is better for cheese and that nature,” Warton confides.

Though he won’t divulge the shop’s recipe secrets, Warton says the proof lies in popping it into your mouth. “We hope folks feel welcome to come in and try different flavors to find their favorites,” he says. “We have a lid to fit every pot so to speak.” — Zandra Wolfgram

PeoPle + Style + HyPein the e.c.



chat

C opper Penny’s Emporium has more than 28,000 pen-nies adorning the sales counter. However, it took more than the luck of a penny to convince the city to al-low the emporium to adorn what Penny Vance called

a “skeleton” street.Vance, 56, is the owner of the newly opened Copper Penny’s

Emporium on Main Street, but locals may recognize her as the owner of the Village Groomer Inc., where she also has worked just down the street for more than two decades. In 2010, she started working with the property owner of a building in front of her own who was having trouble renting out the space. The issue wasn’t the shop’s spacious interior or its visible position on one of Destin’s core roads, but rather the zoning laws.

Vance had a vision in mind for the building: an emporium, or a business that houses numerous other small businesses under one roof. The problem was that many of the items would be recycled art or previously used merchandise for resale, merchandise not approved for sale on Main Street after the city designated it as part of the town center.

Vance said the city dreamed of a “commons-like Main Street,” where the old would be replaced with the new. But when the economy “went flat and the oil spill went flatter,” Vance said the city had to reevaluate its goals.

After a year of emails, phone calls, meetings and discussions, Vance convinced the city to lift eight ordinances. It was enough for the Copper Penny’s Emporium to finally shine on Main Street.

Now handbags, antiques, textile art, handmade soaps, recycled art, furniture, jewelry, a collection of Coca-Cola bottles and beer cans, pet supplies, jewelry stands, accessories and art galore are waiting for shoppers to come by and exclaim that one of these items is perfect for a beloved family member or friend. We spoke to Vance at her Main Street Emporium about these items and her efforts to showcase them to the public.

eC: What were the obstacles keeping Copper Penny’s emporium from opening a year earlier than it did?PV: The owner of the property in front of my original business couldn’t rent out his property because of zoning. He and the other property owners on Main were paying their taxes, but the zoning was making it extremely difficult for anyone to open a business. So we decided to go in and start fighting to try and change the zoning so it would lighten up and we could get this building rented.

eC: What does Destin gain from the zoning changes?PV: Since we’ve had our new ordinanc-es, my business opened and three more moved here in four months. So if that tells you anything about the ordinances and everybody wanting to do some-thing, now they have a chance.

eC: What is your favorite part of owning an emporium?PV: I like to see all the creativity of the people. All these people have full time jobs and then have to come home and make dinner and take care of the babies.

Copper Penny Brings Destin More Than LuckDestinite Works with City for a Year to Get Main Street Ordinances LiftedBy Karina orr

Photos by Scott Holstein

more than 30 copper pots and Jell-o molds hang from vintage sleds above Penny Vance, owner of Copper Penny’s Emporium, which features approximately 100,000 collectible and gift items by 123 vendors, artists and consigners. (Below) When you visit, ask about the story behind the shop’s logo design made from pennies.


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S. Bell (Registered Nurse), Destin “I’ve been singing Dr. Clark’s praises since the day I met him for my consultation. He immediately put me at ease with his professionalism and amazing bedside manner, like I was speaking with a friend as well as my surgeon.

His entire staff was so helpful and courteous. I could not be more pleased with the outcome of my surgery and my experience with Dr. Clark and his staff.”

Amy, Destin “I wanted to say a special thank you to Jaimi (your aesthetician) for helping my skin look amazing. I am really impressed with the improvements over the past few

months. I look forward to seeing her again soon for my next facial.”

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They don’t usually get to their passions until after everyone else is asleep, especially the artists. I just supply the space here, and they use their creativ-ity to make it their own.

eC: your other business is dog grooming. How did you get into that?PV: I’ve always had a passion for pets. They don’t have a voice, so someone has to stand up for them. And before I went to school in Dallas I showed dogs. I was a handler. You know how your parents want you to get involved in something: sports, swimming, whatever. I was involved in a great animal program for adolescents [when I was growing up].

eC: What do you do in your spare time? PV: I love to fish. It’s so peace-ful on the ride out and in. It’s my mental therapy. I’m a nature girl. I want to cast a line and play with the dogs.

eC: What do you think small businesses have to offer a community?PV: Ma and pa are the back-bone of society and provide things big warehouse stores can’t. They provide character, selection, the individuality of the business owner and special-

ties. At Copper Penny’s, we are just providing a second show-room for them. People have some really great ideas, and this is a place for them to come make some money off those ideas. I would like to see the recognition these vendors deserve.

eC: What would your advice be to other potential small businesses?PV: If you need something and you don’t feel like it is attain-able, it is. You just have to want it and be persistent and be a pest. State what you need, and someone will eventually listen. I don’t tell anyone to stop just because a few doors close. ec

chat

rob Carreiro’s White oak organics hand soap comes in 10 fragrances and each is wrapped by hand. (Below) a book shelf is stocked with more than 200 collectible beer cans from the 1970s.

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well-worded

Envisioning PeaceMargaret Biggs Hopes Her Collection of Coastal-Inspired Paintings and Poetry Will Lead People to Find Self-Love By Karina orr

W hat started as Margaret Biggs’ individual quest for inner peace and healing has become an unexpected life mission to help others realize self-love through her art, compiled in her book,

“Visions Through Painting and Poetry.” Biggs, 52, is a student of meditation while she practices

yoga or paints in the quiet of her studio. “Visions” was never something she set out to do, but about two years ago the poetry started to flow from her while the paint on her brush moved to canvas in the calm.

“The poetry will come to me when I paint. It became a source of healing. It’s where I found and still find my peace, my calm, my stillness,” Biggs said.

When she began to let others read her poetry, they were brought to tears and commented on the tranquility they found inside her words.

“That’s what I’m trying to do,” Biggs said. “I’m trying to help people find their peace.”

Inner peace wasn’t always something Biggs had. Though she was born and raised in Pensacola, in 1979 she left the coast and didn’t return for 30 years. During those years, Biggs described her life as a square peg trying to fit into a round hole. Nothing fit, not her marriage, her career, where she was living. So in 2009 she sat beside her dog in a rented truck and trailer and moved back home and made her true passion her career — painting.

“I believe that is what we are put on this earth to do: to learn, to grow and to give,” Biggs said. “We learn from our mistakes and from the people we spend time with if we choose to look within deeply enough and long enough to do so.”

Her work on canvas is with oil paints to recreate the coastal areas that surround her home in Gulf Breeze, where she lives

Photos by Scott Holstein

artist/poet/author margaret Biggs before her “visionary” paintings on exhibit at arriaga gallery in seacrest Beach.


“to truly love yourself, you are loving the divine within yourself. i hope [“Visions”] would remind people that they don’t have to go far to find the divine.” Marageret Briggs

The following excerpt from “Visions” was published with the author’s permission.

I Am a ShellI am a ShellA Shell of who I once wasA Shell of who I will becomeWorn smooth with time.Beautiful from experienceBroken yet wholeDeep in my bodySinging the song of the OceanWhen I am still and all is quietAnd I listen.

with her two sons. The paintings hold designs that intrigue a viewer to look closer, but to also step back with a restful sigh. Biggs described her work as modern realism with an abstract quality or a design element. She may combine both, but neither takes precedence.

“It flows and everything is interconnected,” she said. “If you take on a small section of a painting, it can be abstract because of the fluidity, the connectedness of it. I paint the harmony that can exist and try to show that we are all one, a part of a larger whole.”

That fluidity comes across even in her book as the paintings move from somber grays and dark blues to organic greens and finally sunset oranges. The poetry moves in the same pattern, a pattern Biggs said was accidental.

“I went through some very troubling times, as such is life, and you can see my personal growth. … It wasn’t intentional. I just looked at it and was like, ‘Look what I did,’” Biggs said.

“Visions” chronicles love, forgiveness, healing, joy and dying through the same things that inspire her paintings, nature.

“People don’t know what they’ve got until it’s gone,” Biggs said. “Having traveled and lived away and moved back, it has heightened my appreciation for the natural beauty here.”

Though nature plays a leading role in her poetry and paintings, there’s a strong spiritual aspect threaded throughout. Biggs said she had to look within following the years she was “just a shadow” of who she is today. She credits her friend and spiritual mentor, Ruzica Wiesen, whom she dedicated the book to, as the one who got her through to a better today. It was through this woman’s help that Biggs found self love by connecting with her spiritual side.

“To truly love yourself, you are loving the divine within yourself,” she said. “I hope [“Visions”] would remind people that they don’t have to go far to find the divine.”

To follow Biggs’ ongoing journey to find inner peace, you can purchase her book through her website, margaretbiggs.com and see her work at Arriaga Gallery in Seacrest Beach on 30-A or in the Edward Montgomery Gallery in Carmel, Calif. ec

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ConGratUlationS anD KUDoS

▪ Samantha nicole Brooks (J r Arnold high School), Preeyal Gupta (pensacola high School), Zachary Cooley (holmes County high School), Blake Benton (Marianna high School), Kyle Saleeby (niceville high School), roman Vena (pace high School), elizabeth evans (Walton high School) and alana Hearn (vernon high School) were recognized as northwest florida’s highest achieving science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STeM) students during the 2012 Sunshine State Scholars program in orlando. The Scholars event, which began as a simple science and math competition in 1997, has evolved into a program designed to recognize florida’s top high school STeM students. The program also recruits them to pursue their post secondary education in florida — increasing the likelihood that they will join florida’s future workforce. each school district selects one 11th grade scholar based on established criteria.

▪ Chautauqua Vineyards & Winery in Defuniak Springs won a double gold medal at the florida State fair for its florida noble red Muscadine wine.

▪ Congratulations to the northwest Florida Symphony orchestra, which celebrates its 25th anniversary in August. The orchestra will mark its silver anniversary with a five concert series, as well as numerous educational endeavors for youth, including the regional Concerto Competition, annual nfSo concerts for 5th graders, nfSo musicians who visit area schools, a kids at the Symphony program and more. The orchestra performs at the Mattie kelly Arts Center on the niceville campus of northwest florida State College. for 2012 season details, call (850) 729-5382.

▪ okaloosa County has been acclaimed as the first purple heart County in florida. The Military order of the Purple Heart (Moph) recently honored the okaloosa County board of Commissioners, especially County Commission Chairman Don amunds (District 4), vice Chairman Dave Parisot (District 2), Commissioner Wayne Harris (District 1), Commissioner Bill roberts (District 3) and Commissioner James Campbell District 5, as well as okaloosa County public information officer Kathy newby.

neW FaCeS

▪ John russell and Scott russell have formed russell and russell hospitality Consulting offering strategic planning, administrative management, staff training, sales development, marketing, public relations and community relations services to hotels and full-service resorts located throughout northwest florida.

▪ Howard Group has named Karen Mcnevin as its vice president of hospitality and human resources for the company’s new hospitality Management Services division. Mcnevin will be responsible for the property management and operations of all hospitality projects for howard Group, including the two Marriott hotels in Grand boulevard at Sandestin.

▪ pensacola native James Briscione, chef instructor at the institute of Culinary education (iCe) in new york City, returned to the emerald Coast to serve as a “celebrity chef” for a patron wine dinner for the Destin Charity Wine auction Foundation. he was joined in the kitchen by his wife, brooke parkhurst, author of “belle in the big Apple.”

▪ veteran pastry chef yascha Becker joins the hilton Sandestin beach Golf resort & Spa where he will oversee the design of handcrafted pastry creations for the resort’s catering services and six restaurants. ec

neW neWS

▪ The u.S. Department of Labor awarded a $3.9 million grant to the University of West Florida and Chipola College to provide education, training and job placement assistance to meet the demand for high-skill workers in northwest florida.

▪ the emerald Coast Children’s advocacy Center, a local organization that helps child abuse and neglect victims throughout okaloosa and Walton counties, has opened a second location in Defuniak Springs. The first location is in niceville.

▪ legendary Marine has opened a new full-service boat repair facility in fort Walton beach. The service center is located within the dealership’s existing sales and marina complex, located at 1198 Miracle Strip pkwy. at the foot of the brooks bridge.

▪ A new, non-profit and federally qualified health center was recently dedicated in bruce on the grounds of the Muscogee nation of florida. the Muscogee Creek tribal Health Center is one of four such centers opened by panCare of florida, inc., a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that operates dental and health care clinics on a sliding scale fee for the uninsured in bay and Walton Counties.

▪ Local event design company, Allibeck events, owned and operated by Beck england, has changed its name to Be events.

▪ Destin Commons welcomes life is Good, Pandora, Kay Jewelers and Steve Madden to its retail center.

▪ pensacola celebrity chefs Dan Dunn of h2o at the hilton pensacola beach Gulf front, irv Miller of Jackson’s Steakhouse, Jim Shirley of the fish house, Gus Silivos of Skopelos/nancy’s haute Affairs and Frank taylor of Global Grill showcased the area’s culinary offerings at new york’s acclaimed James beard house during a recent dinner honoring florida’s rich history. The chefs served more than 80 guests a menu of historical recipes that have been used in florida for hundreds of years, modernized with their own artistic touch. The University of West Florida assisted the chefs in their historical research and prepared a culinary timeline over the last 500 years for the event.

▪ yoLo board donated $1,200 from a special sales promotion to the Special olympics florida, which provides year-round sports training and competition to 15,000 children and adults with intellectual disabilities.

well wordedsceneHere are a few things we’ve heard about on the EC scene …

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scott russellJohn russell

michael Westenberger (pictured far right, next to the blue Yolo Board) with the monroe County (Fla.) special olympics sUP team.

From left: Frank taylor (global grill), dan dunn (H20 at the Hilton Pensacola Beach gulf Front), gus silivos (skopelos/nancy’s Haute affairs), Jim shirley (the Fish House) and irv miller (Jackson’s steakhouse).

From left: samantha Brooks, Kyle saleeby, Blake Benton, roman Vena, Elizabeth Evans, zachary Cooley, Preeyal gupta, alana Hearn


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I f you see Bert Little on the job in the Nike Store at Silver Sands Factory Stores — which marked its 20th anniversary in August — you’ll notice two things. He’s not “little” and he’s smiling.

At something over six feet tall and weighing in at 275 pounds, the operations manager projects a veritable force field of positive energy that has won over customers and set an example for colleagues and employees for 17 years at the Miramar Beach discount designer store mall.

“I enjoy what I do,” Little says. “There’s nothing better than to roll out of bed and look forward to work. I tell my employees all the time that this is one of the best jobs they could ever have. Why not smile and make people smile?”

Little’s first day on the job was March 17, 1995, opening day at the center’s Reebok store. The Fort Walton Beach native and former high school football player recalls the mall before its multiple expansions, when eager shoppers parked on the grass where eateries are now located. Little’s career, like the shopping center, has grown exponentially from a part-time temp to a regional operations manager who brings his customer-centric approach to nine stores from Panama City to Little Rock, Ark. As operations specialist for the international athletic outfitter, Little oversees back-of-house operations such as human resources and payroll. He admits to being good with numbers, and in college had set his sights on obtaining both law and accounting degrees. “Law school went out the window early on,” the University of West

Florida graduate says. “And to be a CPA, you lose that customer connection. I enjoyed business management, not accounting.”

No matter if he’s visiting a regional store or in his Silver Sands home base, 47-year-old Little is on the sales floor every day during his 50-hour-plus work week. “I can’t not have that interaction,” he says. “I’ve got to see customers having that good experience.”

Plenty of ChangeAs Silver Sands added new stores, Little moved from Reebok to Izod and then Bass shops, joining Nike nine years ago. Nike store manager Steve Doan said if he had it all to do over again, he’d hire Little in a minute. “His ability to communicate with the staff and customers, plus his community involvement, make him outstanding,” Doan says. “He brings nice energy to the store and the team.”

Some of Little’s fond memories of earlier times at Silver Sands include the former Morgan’s restaurant court and arcade, once located in the building that now houses Saks Off Fifth. The Howard Group center has evolved, the long-time employee says, from being known as an “outlet mall” to a consumer-driven factory store center. “There are no seconds here,” he says. “For example, Nike makes products specifically for direct-to-consumer stores like us.”

The price tag for both Little’s and Silver Sands success involves time spent in vehicles. Little now spends alternate weeks on the road, driving for long hours to other regional Nike stores.

personality

More Than a Little Loyalty Bert Little Celebrates 17 Years with Silver Sands Factory Stores By JenniFer HoWarD


Bert little is proud of his longtime history at one of the nation’s largest designer outlets. “i know someone in about 70 percent of the stores out here,” he says.


Silver Sands’ popularity creates traffic tie-ups on U.S. Highway 98 and often puts parking at a premium. Some 22,249,924 vehicles have brought shoppers to Silver Sands in the last decade, according to the center. That’s a lot of cars on Highway 98 and an impressive number of parking spaces.

Silver Sands’ standards for its retailers are what draw in shoppers, Little believes. “Silver Sands has changed the whole culture of shopping in this area,” he says. “There’s nothing else like this mall. The high standards and demand for excellence make the difference.”

Little instills those same lofty standards in employees. A large part of managing people involves teaching, he believes, perhaps inspired by his 82-year-old mother, a retired Okaloosa County school teacher. Little prefers to motivate employees rather than stand at the front of a social studies class. “Most of them get it, how to communicate and improve the customer experience,” he says. “Those are the successful ones.” Currently, 10 employees have been with him more than three years, an impressive track record in the retail industry where employees frequently migrate.

Little scores an “A+” in customer loyalty and boasts shoppers who have followed him from store to store. He is most proud of disgruntled folks he transformed into repeat customers. “One woman came in the shop so angry with me,” he says. “Her husband and son had picked out shoes, and she was not happy with them at all. I very quickly found out who the real buyer in the family was! I helped her, and she has stayed in touch ever since. She came in the first week I was at Nike. She has me call her now when something new comes in that I think she will like.”

Satisfied ShoppersIn 17 years at Silver Sands, Little has become close to generations

of shoppers. One family started doing business with him when their youngest child was 3-years old. She has now graduated high school. Another young girl who frequently shopped with Little is now a parent with two children of her own. He cites several regular shoppers who drive in from out-of-state to shop with him and at Silver Sands. “They prefer to shop here,” he says. “They have money to spend. They could shop anywhere they want. But they prefer here. That’s not accidental.”

Don’t discount the value of the occasional rainy day when beach-goers typically become Silver Sands shoppers. “I have a rain dance,” Little says. “At least one day a week during Spring Break and summer we need a really good rain.”

Little feels strongly about giving back to the community, a principle shared by Silver Sands, he says. He has been a tireless volunteer for many years and is the 2013 Board Chair Elect for the Boys & Girls Club. A regular at the gym between 5 and 6 a.m., Little is a strong proponent of the organization’s effort to get kids “off the Xbox and on to the basketball court or soccer field.”

Nike and Silver Sands have been huge supporters of the Boys & Girls Club efforts, he says. “They support so much in the community. They invest in anything that helps kids. [Howard Group marketing vice president] Myra Williams and [Silver Sands marketing manager] Katie Johnson are always asking me what they can do to help. If I need help with a organization’s project, they are in.”

Mention retirement and Little shifts uncomfortably in his seat. He plans to retire with Nike, sometime in the distant, nebulous future. The manager prefers to think in terms of continuing to evolve, just as Silver Sands has evolved to meet economic and consumer demand. “I guess I’ll retire when I can’t bring a smile to customers’ faces,” he says. “I feel like I am really part of something here.” He can’t imagine what retirement might hold. For now, he is looking forward to another decade or so at Silver Sands and in our community. ec

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spotlight

Hit the Floor at the DoorTen years ago on a warm August night John Wehner opened the Village Door in The Village of Baytowne Wharf at Sandestin. No sooner than you could say, “bust a move,” the nightclub — popular with both locals and visitors — became the place on the Emerald Coast to shake your booty. In fact, EC magazine readers voted this hot spot the “Best Place to Go Dancing” for several years in a row.

Today, the Village Door still mixes things up with local DJs spinning mixes of the latest dance music and the high-energy Dream Band, performing live on weekends. And recently, the club began serving up dinner to partying patrons on its expansive outdoor deck overlooking the Choctawhatchee Bay.

“You can only dance so many days a week, but you eat every day,” Wehner says.

A drummer and former owner of the renowned Famous Door nightclub in New Orleans — which opened on Bourbon Street nearly 20 years ago to the day of the Village Door — Wehner has definitely brought the beat to the beach. “I have a great love and passion for live music,” Wehner says. He transferred all he learned from his New Orleans club sensation to the Village Door. “My vision has evolved from what people have said they wanted in a nightclub experience,” he says.

Here’s to a happy 10th anniversary and many boogie nights to come. — Zandra Wolfgram


happeningsEvEnts + CulturE + CausEs

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mMuch like the women she portrays on stage, in the one-woman shows she writes and performs, Shirley Simpson is a woman of inspiration in her own right. After embarking on a showbiz career early in her life, Simpson set aside her dreams of stardom and put a burgeoning acting career on hold. Instead, she chose to raise her family and move frequently as her husband’s job demanded. Yet, as with most true artists, she never gave up her passion for her art, in this case live performance.

She was born Shirley Barbour in Tulsa, Okla., in 1933. At the age of six two incidents occurred at school that showed her how her sense of humor and knack for attention could lead to acceptance and more. One day a woman was enter-taining on the school stage and asked if anyone would come up and sing with her. Shirley did not hesitate to raise her hand and jump up on stage, to the delight of the audience. Later that day, she picked up an errant ball outside. The boy ask-ing for it back told his friends, “She’s the one who was so funny this afternoon.”

“I loved it and it became a way of life for me,” says Simpson, recalling the memory from the lanai of her home in Burnt Pine where she lives with her husband of 59 years, Charles “Chuck” Simpson.

By the time she auditioned for the school play in ninth grade, saw the cast list and realized she’d been cast in the coveted part, she knew she wanted to perform on a bigger stage. Her high school English and speech teacher made a meaning-ful impact on her aspirations.

“She thought I was good and she helped make me better,” says Simpson.Simpson has always had an impressive voice, which she refers to as “God’s

gift.” She landed her first broadcasting job at the age of 16, hosting the radio program “Shirley’s Show” on NBC in Tulsa. Shortly thereafter she became edi-tor of the radio program “For Feminine Ears.” Because her voice and demeanor were preternaturally mature and intelligent, no one realized they were listening

to, and taking advice from, a teenager.An encounter with a pageant rep-

resentative on the University of Tulsa campus led to Simpson entering the Miss Tulsa pageant, where she hoped to earn scholarship dollars — and where she mistakenly thought she could enter only the talent section of the pageant. Once she realized she would have to participate in all aspects of the pageant, she gamely followed through with the competition and won the title.

“Being ‘pretty’ was nothing that was valued in my house. It was a nice extra if you had it, but it was nothing to concentrate on. But I’d entered the pageant,” says Simpson, admitting she wore the bathing suit she swam in for the swimsuit competition.

Titles as Miss Oklahoma and Miss Congeniality at the Miss America Pag-eant in Atlantic City in 1952 followed, as did numerous high-profile appear-ances, including a spot on the Ed Sul-livan Show and an interview on “The Today Show” with Bess Myerson, a former Miss America turned television personality.

It was during one of her stage per-formances in Tulsa that Chuck Simpson first spotted his future bride. They married, started having babies and moved often to different cities for his job. Shirley recounts they lived in 22 houses over the years. “He was so good at his


THE uNSTOPPABlE, INSPIrING SHIrlEY SIMPSON

By staCEy May Brady

The Emerald Coast’s

Favorite Leading

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shirley simpson with her love and no. 1 fan, Charles “Chuck” simpson.

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Performing Willy russell’s award-winning one-woman show, “Shirley Valentine,” in 2007 at the New Stage Theatre.

job, he kept getting promoted, moving up and moving on. I was dedicated to helping him,” she says.

Busy raising their young daughters, it proved challenging for Simpson to continue to perform and find creative outlets, yet she did. More than once she sneaked away to an audition just to keep her chops up, knowing she would not be able to take the part if she got it. In Oklahoma City, she was “Safeway’s Shirley Simpson” on TV. When they lived in Chappaqua, N.Y., it gave her proximity to Madison Avenue ad agencies and she per-formed in live television commercials.

Always a woman of great faith and service, Simpson wrote her first play for her church while living in Crown Point, Ind., outside of Chicago. While living in Atherton in the San Francisco area (“I thought I’d died and gone to heaven!”), she took on one particularly sat-isfying project when she did recordings for the blind.

By the time the Simpson family moved back to the east coast to Summit, N.J., the children were getting older and the actress felt the stirrings to get back to performing. And that is exactly what she did, in earnest. She wrote and narrated an award-winning cable show called “The Vital Link.” She be-came a published writer and national speaker for the Presbyterian Church. She even di-rected an opera for the New Jersey symphony (“just the staging and acting”).

Still, she longed to go back to her theater roots, and in 1972 she returned to the stage in a Jean Kerr comedy at The New Jersey Playhouse.

“It was just a delight,” Simpson says in her impeccably clear voice.

When she got the news that Chuck’s busi-ness required a move to Baton Rouge, La,, she was not happy. “New York was such a treasure of theater and I was enjoying my TV work and theater opportunities in New Jersey. I couldn’t see the same things hap-pening in Baton Rouge.”

Of course, nothing could’ve been further from the truth as she began an exception-ally productive creative period where she directed and acted in numerous successful productions at local theaters, including Loui-siana State University’s Colonnade Theater. Among these came the role of Eleanor of Aquitaine in “The Lion in Winter,” which remains a favorite.

Moving from Baton Rouge to Jackson, Miss., Simpson found a home at New Stage Theatre, Mississippi’s only professional theater. At New Stage, she became well Ph

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cultureknown for her strong female lead performances, including the lead in the popular production of “Shirley Valentine.”

Francine Thomas Reynolds is the artistic director of New Stage and has known Simpson for 10 years, but really got to know her well when directing her in 2004 in the musical “The Spitfire Girl.”

“I think she is inspired by well-written characters and well-written plays. She is a fantastic actor, and I think she is driven by a tremendous energy and work ethic,” says Reynolds, adding that Simpson is a lifetime board member of the theater.

In 2005, with considerable encouragement from her husband, Simpson returned to New York where she performed in the lead role of Laurette in an off-Broadway play about Laurette Taylor. Simpson was inspired by Taylor’s life and describes her as “the best actress EVER, ever on Broadway!” During her run as Laurette, the idea for her own one-woman show began to take form.

“As you get older there are fewer roles available to you, and since I wanted to keep performing I thought, maybe I should work on a one-woman show. But I knew the research and time it would take, so I wanted to do women whose lives were worth knowing about, women of influence,” Simpson tells.

Because she could “do her voice,” Katharine Hepburn was her first leading lady. Shows based on Erma Bombeck, Minnie Pearl

and Gracie Allen followed. As with all of her Women of In-

fluence performances, Simpson, a member of Actor’s Equity, performs them for charity fundraisers. She says it takes about three months to do the research and another three months to write the script. “Memorization has to be word perfect, which can be mad-dening. And it’s lonely work with no cast members, no director, no feed-back, no one in rehearsal but you and a clock,” she confides.

Simpson was told her turn as Erma Bombeck was uncanny. She says it’s because she was able to “get inside of her head.” And the actress draws even deeper parallels to this Midwestern humor columnist. “Erma wanted to

use up every bit of her talent and not have one bit of talent left at the end of her life. That’s the way I feel,” says Simpson. “I’ve had such a full life married to a great guy, four really exceptional daughters and their families, plus having the chance to teach and preach and write and direct and perform. I’ve been very blessed.”

Besides her regional theater performances — she recently per-formed the lead in “Driving Miss Daisy” at New Stage — Simpson continues to take speaking engagements in service to her church. She recently was the keynote speaker for an audience of 500 women and uses her acting background to reach these groups as well. “If you say what you have to say through a character, you don’t sound like you’re preaching,” she says.

When asked if there will be another character in her series, the indefatigable performer says, “My son-in-law is the one who sug-gested Gracie Allen and he recently asked, ‘Why don’t you do Mar-lene Dietrich?’ I thought, ‘A German accent! Great idea.’”

Her good friend Francine Reynolds puts it best, “Her work on her one-woman shows demonstrates her drive and desire to remain active, working and relevant. Not only is she inspired, she is inspi-rational.” ec

“Memorization has to be word perfect, which can be maddening. And it’s lonely work with no cast members, no director, no feedback, no one in rehearsal but you and a clock.” — Shirley Simpson

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Photo courteSy chAndler WilliAmS/moduS PhotogrAPhy (yolo) And Joy Jill BArker (Shelter)

august + september

+Concert

Share the ShelterSept. 29 Shelter House and Alaqua Animal Refuge have rejoined forces to raise awareness and funds to save the lives of people and animals impacted by violence by hosting the second annual Share the Shelter concert on Sept. 29 at Gulf Place on 30A. A star-studded lineup, including local favorites Daphne Willis, Bryan Kennedy and Chris Alvarado, will perform at the event. Concertgoers can expect a full day of music, food and fun. Dogs are welcome. VIP passes as well as discounted tickets for children are available for purchase. The 2011 concert drew more than 500 music fans and raised $21,000 for Shelter House and Alaqua Animal Refuge.

For more details, visit the Share the Shelter Facebook page for updates on artist and vendor confirmations. If you are interested in sponsoring or volunteering for this event, contact Shelter House at (850) 243-1201.


For more events in the EC, visit emeraldcoastmagazine.com.

Compiled by Zandra Wolfgram

Wednesdays through Aug. 15seaside summer Concert series celebrate the summer season with your friends and neighbors as we welcome the sounds of some of the region’s top musical acts to Seaside. music will fill central Square and entertain guests of all ages. Free. Seaside Amphitheater. 7 p.m. (850) 231-6107, seasidefl.com

Wednesdays through Sept. 26 Wednesday night Concert seriesenjoy this outdoor music concert series featuring live performers, bands and musicians. Free. events Plaza, the Village of Baytowne Wharf at Sandestin, 9300 emerald coast Pkwy. West, miramar Beach. 7–9 p.m. (850) 267- 8117, baytownewharf.com

Teams of four “paddled” it out during the 5th installment of the YOLO Board Stand Up Paddle Series that launched from the WaterColor BoatHouse on Western Lake on May 24 followed by three additional relays that spanned the summer.

+Sports

Get ready … set … paddle! The paddleboard sport has exploded on the Emerald Coast scene with a slew of fun events. There are two exciting paddleboard race events happening in August.

The YOLO Board Stand Up Paddle SeriesAug. 9 Jump aboard this stand up paddleboard race series featuring the fifth installment of the popular relay-style competition. The race is free to spectators and $240 per four-person relay team for the Recreational division and $180 per three-person relay team for the Next Level division. The fee includes complimentary 2012 signature event T-shirts for each participating team member.

All races will be held at the BoatHouse on Western Lake in WaterColor on 30A. 5 p.m. (850) 622-5760, yoloboard.com

2nd Annual YOLO Mileage Builder Series Aug. 11 A four-leg paddleboard race builds in endurance, excitement and … mileage. Before each race event, YOLO Team riders will host a paddle clinic covering everything from paddling technique to buoy turns to training strategy, allowing paddlers the opportunity to learn the latest tips from the pros. This year’s series will be held at Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort’s Baytowne Marina. The race welcomes all skill levels. Race divisions include: stock 12-foot; 12-foot 6-inch; 14-foot; and unlimited. All board classes are welcome.

The entry fee is $35 (day of) and includes a complimentary event T-shirt, four pre-race clinics and other great “swag.” Baytowne Marina at Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort, 9300 Emerald Coast Pkwy. West, Miramar Beach. 8 a.m. registration, 8:30 a.m. clinic, 9 a.m. start time. (850) 622-5760, yoloboard.com

Thursdays through Aug. 9‘river rat and Cat’From the day fastidious river rat hauled a drowning, sodden cat from a sinking basket, all of the river creatures have been dismayed by the camaraderie of this unlikely duo. kids of all ages will love this keystone kops kind of comedy. Free. Alys Beach Amphitheater. 6:30 p.m., seasiderep.org Thursdays through Aug. 30red, White and Blue Celebration this patriotic party at harborWalk Village is a weekly event honoring a local hero. the celebrations highlight the efforts of people who go above and beyond to better their community. enjoy live entertainment, free kids’ crafts and face painting, and a WWii replica flyover. the evening is topped off by a spectacular fireworks display over the destin harbor. Free. harborWalk Village, 10 harbor Blvd., destin. 6 p.m. (850) 424-0600, emeraldgrande.com

Fridays through Aug. 17Central square Cinema grab your blankets and head to the Seaside Amphitheater with your family and friends to enjoy blockbusters and classic movies under the stars. Free. Seaside Amphitheater, Sea-side. 8 p.m. (850) 231-6107, seasidefl.com

Fridays through Aug. 31silver sands 20 Weeks of Giveawaysin celebration of its 20th anniversary, Silver

Sands Factory Stores is rewarding loyal shoppers with weekly Friday giveaways valued at more than $4,000. register to win at silversandsoutlet.com or Facebook/sil-versands. Free. Silver Sands Factory Stores, 10562 emerald coast Pkwy., destin. Winners will be selected each Friday at 10 a.m. (850) 654-9771, silversandsoutlet.com

Fri-Sun through Aug. 31sounds of summerthe beat goes on in Pensacola Beach with this free concert series most Fridays, Satur-days and Sundays at the boardwalk amphi-theater. Free. Pensacola Beach, Boardwalk Amphitheatre. 6 –8 p.m. (850) 932-1500, pensacolabeachchamber.com

Fridays throughout the yeardowntown art WalkStroll 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 tara Wesley at (850) 226-7763.

Saturdays through Sept. 1rock the dockscome out on Saturday night for free concerts on the harborWalk Village stage. Free. 10 harbor Blvd., destin. 7 p.m. (850) 424-0600, emeraldgrande.com

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Joseph A. Pedone, M.D.FACC, FACP, FSCAI

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Juan Carlos Zarate, M.D.FACC, FSCAI

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Sundays through Aug. 26Operation InspirationharborWalk Village features a lineup of singers from a variety of music genres to entertain audiences on the main stage. Free. harborWalk Village, 10 harbor Blvd., destin. 5 p.m. meet and greet the artists, 6 p.m. concert. (850) 424-0600, emeraldgrande.com

Open Daily through Aug. 19 2012 Coastal living ultimate Beach House in rosemary Beachthe 2012 15th Anniversary coastal living ultimate designer Beach house is being completed in rosemary Beach. tours are open for this gorgeous 7,000-square-foot home. $15. 194 West kingston road, Panama city Beach. Wed–Sat, 11a.m.–5 p.m.; Sun 1 p.m.–5 p.m. (800) 736-0877, coastalliving.com

July 31–Sept. 4Kid’s Pottery (ages 5+)children get a chance to be creative while learning about clay. they are taught pinched forms, coil building, slab construction tech-niques, wheel throwing and pottery vocabulary while creating their very own works of art. $75. Full circle gallery, 29 B eglin Pkwy., Fort Wal-ton Beach. (850) 218-5801, fullcirclefwb.com

Aug. 1–17stories by the sea Seaside repertory theatre presents a one-of-a-kind storytelling experience for children of

all ages. each day will offer a new story, and there might even be opportunities for your participation. Free. Seaside Amphitheater, Seaside. 4 p.m., (850) 231-6107, seasidefl.com

Aug. 1–31art by Helen Blairthe works of helen Blair, artist in pen and ink, watercolor and acrylics, will be on display in the studio windows of the Art center, fronting First Street. drive by and stop to see these works. Free. Arts and design Society Art center, 17 First St., S.e., Fort Walton Beach. (850) 244-1271, artsdesignsociety.org

Aug. 1–Sept. 5Beginning and Continuing Potteryget your hands dirty, meet interesting people, and share the magical experience of transforming mud into something beautiful with a wheel-thrown pottery class for all levels. $150. Full circle gallery, 29 B eglin Pkwy., Fort Walton Beach. 11:30 a.m.–1:30 p.m. weekly. (850) 218-5801, fullcirclefwb.com

Aug. 2Callaghan in ConcertSeaside rep presents a concert by singer-song-writer callaghan featuring her newly released album “life in Full colour.” An eclectic, dynamic musical force, callaghan combines shades of folk, country, rock and pop into a seamless fusion of moody melodies. $25. Seaside rep theatre, 30 Smolian circle, Seaside. 7:30 p.m. seasiderep.org

Aug. 3–5Bushwacker Festival and 5Kthis festival is centered around Pensacola’s favorite adult beverage — the milk chocolaty bushwacker. enjoy a fun run and celebration on the boardwalk. Free. 400 Quietwater Beach road, Pensacola Beach. (850) 434-1234, visitpensacola.com

Aug. 4Family PotteryBring your family and make pottery together. Work on the wheel or hand build a pot. each person gets to create one piece of pottery. Join another class to glaze your piece or for a firing fee they’ll glaze your piece for you. $20 per person. Full circle gallery, 29 B eglin Pkwy., Fort Walton Beach, 2:30–4 p.m. (850) 218-5801, fullcirclefwb.com

Aug. 6 & 13 ‘Beanie & the Bamboozling Book Machine’ Seaside rep presents the story of Beanie Boren, a science wiz who’s not keen on reading, who designed a book-reading machine for the science fair. unfortunately, the machine is neither user-friendly nor bug free. Free. Seaside Amphitheater, Seaside. 6:30 p.m. (850) 231- 6107, seasidefl.com

Aug. 7–Sept. 113th annual Photography and digital arts show the subjects of this annual show, open to all


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Steve Barber and lauren Gall

Susan lovelace and Emeril lagasse

Marlene Freeman, Dee and Merlin Allan, Shellie Henderson

Joseph rogers and Deke lee

Bunny Hall, regina Hall, Meba and Glenn Cooper

Dennis lichorwic and Glenda Weatherbee

Steve and lynn Dugas Todd Eiche and Angelle Crosby

An evening with chef emeril lagasse

April 12, 2012. the lovelace interiors showroom was transformed into an intimate

culinary showcase as local “foodies” mixed and mingled with the emerald coast’s favorite

celebrity chef emeril lagasse. Photos by Rhonda Chaloupka

socialstudies



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photographers, will cover the photographers’ range of interests, usually broad and always interesting. Free. Arts and design Society Art center, 17 First St., S.e., Fort Walton Beach. opening reception, Fri, Aug 10, 6–8 p.m. gallery hours: tue–Fri, noon–4 p.m.; Sat, 1-4 p.m. (850) 244-1271, artsdesignsociety.org

Aug. 18sandestin triathlonthe 26th Annual Sandestin triathlon will lure 700 participants for a half-mile swim in the gulf of mexico, a 20-mile bike along the coast and a 4-mile run through the 2400-acre Sand-estin golf and Beach resort. Proceeds benefit Sacred heart hospital of the emerald coast. $110–$200. Sandestin golf and Beach resort, 9300 emerald coast Pkwy. West, miramar Beach. registration begins Friday, Aug. 17, 4–8 p.m. at the linkside center. the race begins Sat at 5 a.m. (800) 622-1028, sandestin.com

Aug. 18raku art Classraku is an ancient firing technique. once the needed temperature is reached and the forms are glowing red, they are pulled out of the kiln and placed into a small container with combus-tible materials that produce brilliant and unpre-dictable metallic glaze colors. no experience required. come glaze a piece and see it fired in front of your eyes. $35, $25 students. Full circle gallery, 29 B eglin Pkwy., Fort Walton Beach. 7–9 p.m. (850) 218-5801, fullcirclefwb.com

Aug. 24vine to Winedestin charity Wine Auction Foundation and the Walton Area chamber of commerce pres-ent the 5th annual taste of the Beach kick-off event, Vine to Wine, in grand Boulevard at Sandestin. this event features more than 250 wines, including all medal winners from taste of the Beach’s wine judging competition, for guests to sample, alongside culinary delights from grand Boulevard’s signature restaurants. Proceeds from this event benefit local children’s charities. $50 per person. grand Boulevard at Sandestin, 600 grand Blvd., miramar Beach. 6–8 p.m. tasteofthebeachfl.com

Aug. 25–264th annual Kitty Hawk Kite Festival and Paddleboard raceA fun day of activities on the land and water for the entire family. Watch professional kite flyers and their spectacular and amazing kite dem-onstrations. Join in the fun by bringing your kite and learning tricks from the pros. kids can enjoy hands-on craft activities at kitty hawk kites. compete for spectacular prizes in the paddleboard race around the destin bridge. Free except for registration to paddleboard race. harborWalk Village, 10 harbor Blvd., destin. time: tBd, (850) 424-0600, emeraldgrande.com

Aug. 26adsO luncheon Joyce Waters-Smith, the featured speaker at the Arts and design Society’s August luncheon, will present a program on Art in the garden. Waters-Smith is a master gardener and mem-ber of the okaloosa county master gardeners’

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Mike and Angela ragsdale and Phillip McDonald

rebecca Sullivan and Tracy Oosterman

girls’ night outApril 3, 2012. the emerald coast was tickled pink with this effervescent musical event at the emerald coast convention center. Photo by Kay Phelan

Fifth Annual digital graffiti Festival June 8–9, 2012. A red carpet party, new york dJs, signature cocktails, artist workshops and interactive exhibits made for a visually arresting

weekend at what has become the 30A event of the season at Alys Beach. Photos by Rhonda Chaloupka and Digital Graffiti at Alys Beach

socialstudies


Ainsley rogers and Jessica Proffitt

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Association. $12. Arts and design Society Art center, 17 First St., S.e., Fort Walton Beach. 11:30 a.m. (850) 244-1271, artsdesignsociety.org

Aug. 31–Sept. 2Baytowne art Walk the Village of Baytowne Wharf welcomes the fall season with world-class art and live music in the Village events Plaza. Free. Sandestin golf and Beach resort, 9300 emerald coast Pkwy. W., miramar Beach. 5–10 p.m. (850) 267-8117, sandestin.com/events

Sept. 1–2labor day Concert WeekendSummer 2012 ends with a weekend of family activities, free concerts and fireworks. rock the docks one last time Saturday night with a live concert on the harborWalk Village main stage topped off by a vibrant fireworks display over the harbor. Free. harborWalk Village, 10 harbor Blvd. destin. 6–9 p.m. (850) 424-0600, emeraldgrande.com

Sept. 1–3Jamaican FestFeaturing live music, the kids zone, sidewalk sale and the “Anything that Floats” race and bathtub races in Santa rosa Sound. $30. All-day event with Bathtub races at 2 p.m. 400 Quietwater Beach road, Pensacola Beach. (850) 932-1500, pensacolabeachchamber.com Sept. 1–30art by Carol Prellbergthe art of carol Prellberg, who works in water-color on yupo, will be displayed in the studio windows of the Art center, fronting First Street. drive by and stop to see these works. Free. Arts and design Society Art center, 17 First St., S.e., Fort Walton Beach. (850) 244-1271, artsdesignsociety.org

Sept. 2labor day Weekend Concertcelebrating rock ‘n’ roll, motown and r&B from ’50s to today, mattie kelly Arts Foundation welcomes two great entertainers for one great evening: olivia Slater and Amanda holmes with the emerald gold Band and ron Adams’ “Shadow of the king” elvis Presley tribute show. $10 admission per adult, kids under 12 Free. 4323 commons drive West, destin (behind destin ymcA and grace lutheran church). 7 p.m. (850) 650-2226, mattiekellyartsfoundation.org

Sept. 4–29Inspired by Peter MaxAll art, in any medium, will be based on the art of Peter max, known for his iconic bright posters and art in the 1960s and ’70s. Free. Arts and design Society Art center, 17 First St., S.e., Fort Walton Beach. opening reception, Fri, Sept. 7, 6 –8 p.m. gallery hours: tue–Fri, noon–4 p.m.; Sat, 1–4 p.m. (850) 244-1271

Sept. 7Emerald Coast Beer FestivalSeville Quarter plays host to this beer-lovers’ dream. taste a variety of beers from more than 40 breweries and distributors. Admission $25, ViP $50. 130 e. government St., Pensacola. 6 p.m. (850) 434-6211, sevillequarter.com

thecalendar

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Sandestin Wine FestivalApril 26–29, 2012. Wine lovers converged on the Village of Baytowne Wharf at Sandestin

to sip, swirl, taste and learn about more than 600 domestic and international wines.

Photos by Tracy Mulligan

Wine Party 2012April 27–28, 2012. the destin charity Wine Auction Foundation lured wine aficionados, gourmet chefs and celebrity vintners from around the world to the linkside center at Sandestin to raise awareness and funds for local children’s charities. Photos by Rhonda Chaloupka

Briane O’Dell and Hillary FosdyckJohn russell and Alice StapletonMegan O’Halloran and Todd Vucovich

Mike and Deidra Stange

Bill and Michael Wes and Bonnie Shelton

Arlene Matthews and Shirley Sullivan

Mandy rogers and Jennifer Hughes

socialstudies


2011

Sept. 13–14 Fairways for Fisher House Support the Fisher house on the emerald coast by taking part in a charity golf tourna-ment at kelly Plantation and a gala evening at the Bayview club on eglin Air Force Base the following evening. this fundraising weekend is open to the public. the gala will include dinner, entertainment by the mulligans and a silent auction. Sponsor levels start at $1,500. tickets to the gala are $50 per person. golf tournament shotgun starts on thursday at 1:30 p.m. the gala begins at 6 p.m. Friday. (850) 259-4956, fisherhouseemeraldcoast.org

Sept. 15 Emerald Coast ZuMBathon Wiggle your way into the largest zumBA class on the destin harbor. everyone is invited to come out and learn this latino dance exercise. this event will include live music and activities with a latin theme. donations appreciated. harbor-Walk Village, 10 harbor Blvd, destin. call for time. (850) 424-0600, emeraldgrande.com

Sept. 15–165th annual taste of the Beachget a sampling of island flavors from the area’s best chefs. Free, excluding the purchase of food. gulfside Pavilion, Pensacola Beach. 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. (850) 932-1500, pensacolabeachchamber.com

Sept. 21 Gallery nightenjoy an evening of arts and culture by touring downtown art galleries. Free. downtown Pensacola. 5 p.m. (850) 434-5371, downtownpensacola.com

Sept. 27–Oct 20 ‘den of thieves’maggie is a shoplifter looking to change her life. Paul is her sponsor in a 12-step program. Flaco is her charismatic, but jealous drug-dealing ex-boyfriend. Boochie, Flaco’s girlfriend, is a topless dancer. When this unlikely squad ban together to steal $750,000 in unprotected drug money, they become prisoners in a mob boss’ basement. $25, Seaside repertory theatre, 30 Smolian circle, Seaside. 7:30 p.m. seasiderep.org

Sept. 28–3035th annual Pensacola seafood FestivalSample a variety of mouth-watering seafood dishes, enjoy continuous live entertainment, shop at the many arts and crafts vendors and participate in a 5k. Free. Seville Square, downtown Pensacola. 5k will take place on Sept. 29 at 7:30 a.m., $25-$30, at Seville Quarter, 30 e. government St., Pensacola (850) 433-6512, fiestaoffiveflags.org and pensacolarunners.com

SAvE tHE DAtE! Oct. 20rosemary Beach uncorkedStroll beautiful rosemary Beach and sample signature dishes from quaint restaurants paired with boutique wines for an extra-special taste of the beachside town. end the experience with Amavida’s chocolate and coffee pairing … mmm. $75 per person. rosemary Beach town Square. 1–5 p.m. to reserve tickets, email [email protected], call (855) 819-2220 or visit rosemarybeachuncorked.com. ec

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AnnikA & Friends at Sandestinmay 12–13, 2012. Sandestin golf and Beach resort hosted a two-day

celebration of golf and entertainment featuring lPgA hall of Fame golf great Annika Sorenstam. highlights of the weekend included ViP receptions, a

pro-am golf tournament and a mega concert at grand Boulevard with country music superstar, darius rucker. Proceeds from the event will benefit SPArk

— a physical education program for secondary school children. Photos by Kay Phelan

little Black dress Partymay 19, 2012. White-Wilson medical center set hearts aflutter with a sensational sold-out benefit evening that raised $40,000 for the American heart Association, the American cancer Society, opportunity Place and the White-Wilson medical Foundation. Photos by Kay Phelan

Aimee Shaffer Deano Minto

Jessica Proffitt, Sheryl and Alice Cooper and Donna Proffitt Kay Phelan and James Murray

David Gordon, Annika Sorenstam and Vicki Gordon

Krissy and Mark robertson Judy Byrne-riley, Dr. Alexis Tibbetts and linda Kernick

socialstudies

44 June–July 2012 EmEraldCoastmagazinE.Com

They say a picture is worth a thousand words. Professional photographers help us crystallize precious and illusive moments

through their distinctive style and eagle eye. In this story, we glimpse people, places and happenings along the Emerald Coast as

seen through the lenses of a dozen of the talented photographers whose calling captures … life on the Emerald Coast.

ExPErIEnCE ThE EmErald CoasT Through ThE lEns of 12 TalEnTEd

PhoTograPhErs who lIvE and work hErE

By Garrett Spencer

Picturing A New PoiNt of View

landscape photographer Brandan Babineaux captured this award-winning image of lightning at seaside in June of 2010. Babineaux was born in destrehan, la., a small town west of new orleans on the mississippi river. so, it’s no surprise that nature landscapes make up the specialty niche for this self-taught nikon photographer. “i shoot lots of different styles,” Babineaux said. “But my strength and most rewarding style is to shoot candid street photography. Capturing a moment that will never happen again — and is not staged — is very rewarding. this also happens in nature photography, which is a favorite of mine.”»

EmEraldCoastmagazinE.Com august–september 2012 45

46 august–september 2012 EmEraldCoastmagazinE.Com

Scott HolStein MAgAZinEwith his straight-forward, no-gimic approach to photography, scott holstein brings alive the faces and places in all of rowland Publishing Inc.’s publications, such as EC, Tallahassee, 850 and forgotten Coast magazines, as well as many specialty publications. his first camera was an old Japanese minolta that his dad gave him in middle school.

It is clear from his sense of humor that he doesn’t take himself too seriously. “I started carrying that camera around with me when I would go hiking or fishing, but quickly learned photographic evidence does not help fish stories,” holstein said. “unfortunately, that camera is now at the bottom of a river in west virginia.”

“I am inspired by the work of others. There are so many talented photographers out there, and the rapidly changing technology has made so much more possible. It’s fun to see what other artists are doing.” — Scott Holstein

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KanSaS PittS inFAntS“I have been known to say that photographing a newborn is actually harder than capturing an entire wedding,” kansas Pitts says. “Patience, organization and being deliberate in your posing are key. although there are things I can instruct parents to do prior to the session to help it be a success, with babies you get what you get.”

what this fort walton Beach native does get is plenty of client referrals for being one of the best infant photographers on the coast.

“It inspires me to create amazing images of each little one so parents will have them forever to look back on.” — Kansas Pitts

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HannaH and SHawn Brown tHEMAtic POrtrAitS hBB Photography consists of international married duo hannah and shawn Brown. hannah was born in madrid, spain, and shawn in Toronto, Canada. hBB is known for its weddings and family shoots that are often borderline bizarre and over-the-top creatively. Their process starts with a client contacting them with a simple vision to have a custom portrait. once they have a general theme, they scout locations and find stock images that can be worked into their photographs. They set up the scene around the selected stock image and begin the shoot. after shooting three to four, they choose their favorites and then spend up to 10 hours in post-production using Photoshop.

“Honestly, as artists it’s easy to get bored. We love being challenged to see if we can do something that we’ve never done before.” — Hannah Brown

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antonio ceSar BEAcH LAnDScAPESantonio Cesar started his career at the age of 15 in northern California. Photo contest prize money paid for his initial equipment. Today, he is one of the only photographers in northern florida using hasselblad cameras, which are medium format professional digital cameras with 50 to 60 megapixels, and cost upwards of $40,000 each. Though he does large wall portraits, he may be best known for his timeless beach landscapes. his inspiration comes from within himself and his family. he enjoys capturing mother nature’s color at its peak of perfection at the perfect time of day.

“My career has taken me to so many beautiful parts of the world, but in the winter of 1993, I visited the Emerald Coast for the first time and fell in love.” — Antonio Cesar

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devon ravine PHOtOJOurnALiSMdevon ravine is a newspaper photographer who has worked for the northwest florida daily news since 2001. originally from Everett, wash., he got his first camera when he was 8 years old, but he didn’t get serious about photography until he was in high school. while studying photojournalism at the university of missouri-Columbia, he worked as a photographic intern in washington, michigan and here in florida.

as a daily newspaper photographer ravine has helped cover the important issues and events of our community and document the joys, sorrows, experiences and contributions of those who live along the Emerald Coast. his approach to photography depends entirely on the subject he is shooting. “Covering a golf tournament is quite different than my approach to photographing a fire or car accident,” ravine said.

“I’m always inspired by people who believe in themselves and have courage to follow their dreams.” — Devon Ravine

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SHelly Swanger SPEciAL EVEntSshelly swanger got her first real camera in high school and shot for the school newspaper and yearbook. a santa rosa Beach resident since 2007, she is now one of the most sought-after special events photographers in the area, known for doing what it takes to get the shot.

“When I go on a shoot I’ll lay on the ground or get on the roof; I just want to try and imagine the subject from every vantage point. I try to take artistic risk. Sometimes they turn out great and sometimes they are a disaster.” — Shelly Swanger

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amy Quarrier FinE Artamy Quarrier was born in 1975 in the same hospital and delivered by the same doctor that delivered her mother. But it was her shutterbug great grandmother who she followed after. watching photographers she admired and taking workshops, she gained confidence and began to find her own style. for most of her professional work she shoots with medium format 35mm film cameras, like her mamiya rZ67 Proll or her leica m7, but she does use some digital.

“It’s critical to shoot whatever you’re drawn to, what moves you and stokes those creative fires. I’m not drawn to the same thing over and over. I’m more drawn to telling a story or exploring a theme.” — Amy Quarrier

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micHael JameS ArcHitEcturE/intEriOrSmichael James is a self-taught real estate photographer who first got interested in photography in 2005. he looks to paintings, drawings and sculptures for inspiration. If needed he can shoot a property in a couple of hours, but he prefers a couple of days from sunrise to sunset to see the property reveals itself. “morning light spilling into a bedroom or across a kitchen counter creates a different mood than shooting at high noon, just as a late afternoon glow coming in at an angle creates visual impact that you just can’t fake in Photoshop,” he said.

“I love seeing what others create with materials and their imaginations. It inspires me to push my own work and to venture out to get creative shooting other genres.” — Michael James

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tommy crow EDitOriALTommy Crow began taking photographs at age 13. he studied landscape architecture and photography at the university of georgia and moved to the Emerald Coast in 2005. his photographic equipment includes everything from handmade pinhole cameras to his iPhone to a hasselblad. he is inspired by modern architecture and uses this inspiration to mold his work.

“I want to challenge the old, tired formats that have come before in order to createsomething new andfresh. I always arguefor what can happen and what we can accomplish.” — Tommy Crow C

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ryan mantHey BEAcH POrtrAitSryan manthey is the lead photographer of Pure 7 studios, which is a family business that is run by himself and his wife, Erica. he moved to the Emerald Coast in 1995 from madison, s.d., but didn’t start seriously taking pictures until 2005, after the birth of his first daughter.

manthey looks for specific moments when shooting. “my specialty is shooting those places in time that are genuine,” he said. “whether it be a wedding, a newborn baby or a family’s time at our beautiful beaches.”

“The fact that I am able to create works of art that people will have for generations — and the fact that these people chose me to create these pieces — inspires me.” — Ryan Manthey

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mari darr~welcH HigH-ScHOOL SEniOr POrtrAitSa former photojournalist, mari darr~welch’s work has been published in newspapers, magazines and books worldwide. Photographers such as annie leibovitz have influenced her fun style of portraiture. she is especially adept at creating innovative images of high-school seniors and shooting weddings with a contemporary flair. In 2005, the associated Press called upon darr~welch to help document the devastation wrought by hurricane katrina and included one of her images in a Pulitzer-nominated package. “I have been fortunate enough to win national awards, make a positive difference in many people’s lives and now I love documenting their joy,” darr~welch says.

“My quirky style comes from within. I look at life with amusement and fun. Not that I can’t be serious, but I do like to think outside the box.” — Mari Darr~Welch d

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The 2012 Best of the Emerald Coast Event

October 13th l 6–9:30pmGrand BoulevardBrought to you by EC Magazine

to benefi t the Junior League of the Emerald Coast.The 2012 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 12th annual event as we sample from the best restaurants, shopping and businesses on the Emerald Coast.

Tickets can be purchased at www.jlec.org$25 in advance ($35 day of event)

Come Celebrate Your Winners!

12EC_AS_Best Of Save the Date.indd 1 7/10/12 2:55 PM

http://www.jlec.org


Wearable ArtExprESS yourSElf with dESignEr

AccESSoriES thAt StEAl thE (Art) Show By Zandra Wolfgram // Photos By scott holstein

The Double Dragon necklace design is hand-molded from acrylic then hand-painted in gold and silver metallic colors by Jean Houndsome

for her company Jeanique Jewelry.

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mMarliyn Monroe got it right when she demurred that diamonds are a girl’s best friend. Speaking of sisterhood, we girls have Diane Keaton to thank for taking the Fedora out of the proverbial hatbox with such flourish. And surely Isadora Duncan deserves a nod for giving scarves a sense of mystery and glamour. (Of course, if worn while riding in a convertible, precautions should prevail.)

Thanks to television shows like Lifetime’s “Project Accessory,” fashion accessories go well beyond the old rule of matching a handbag to your hem. Adornments of all types and stripes have fastened themselves tight into their very own buttonhole, if you will. Today, making a fashion statement without any kind of extra embellishment is like a sentence without the proper punctuation — incomplete to say the least.

We say, heap on the hyperbole and bring on the exclamation point. As Madonna’s hit “Vogue” tells us, “Express yourself!” And with the help of these five talented accessory designers — each with a distinctive style of reinventing materials all her own — the next outfit you put together just may be a work of (wearable) art.

Dramatic by DesignThe word jewelry is derived from the Latin word jocale meaning plaything. Soft spoken Mary Kay Samouce, whose jewelry design company is Adorn by Samouce, is fond of old things, the more playful the better. In fact, the drawers of the 1970-era metal drafting table in her studio are filled to the brim with fabulous finds and trinkets from days gone by, such as brass keys, silver match holders, garish broaches, metal chains, well-worn

locks, secret lockets and more — all fodder for her “modern-vintage” designs.

The daughter of a Houston antique dealer, Samouce, 47, grew up “exposed to beautiful things from all different time periods.” Buying excursions to Europe with her mother gave her a deep appreciation and knowledge for all things vintage — and a signature top hat from London’s Portobello Road circa the late 1800s!

With a bachelor’s degree in painting and sculpture and further education in theatrical and commercial event design, Samouce has worn many career hats quite successfully — including an Oscar win for the art direction of a documentary short film. But it is jewelry design that has captivated her fancy. A painter at heart, she says she sees each piece of jewelry as a painting canvas, no one is more delighted than she that her work is theatrical. “That’s what my jewelry is all about. Go big or go home. Just keep it exciting,” she says with a laugh.

Samouce’s necklaces, bracelets and earrings are composed of authentic Georgian, Victorian, Edwardian, Art Nouveau, Art Deco vintage finds paired with crystal beads, sparkling gemstones and baroque pearls to form one-of-a-kind contemporary statement pieces that are often unexpected. “I like contrast: Putting something rustic with something refined is a design aesthetic that works for me,” she says.

Her background as a scenic designer has trained her to be focused, efficient … and confident. “I kind of had a no-looking-back policy for myself. It takes away the judgment and the fear that can go with doing something original and creative. It’s easy to be our own worst enemies and edit ourselves to death.


Wearable ArtExprESS yourSElf with dESignEr

AccESSoriES thAt StEAl thE (Art) Show By Zandra Wolfgram // Photos By scott holstein

Adorn by Samouce designs (from left) Victorian enamel cut steel buckle suspended from a 1950s

rhinestone necklace; 1950s pink and green brooch takes center stage in this piece surrounded by a white pom pom bib necklace; hand-painted

beaded encrusted cluster drop earrings.

Samouce’S necklaceS, braceletS and earringS

are compoSed of authentic georgian,

Victorian, edwardian, art nouVeau, art deco

Vintage findS paired with cryStal beadS, Sparkling gemStoneS and baroque pearlS to form one-of-a-kind contemporary

Statement pieceS that are often unexpected.

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Mary Kay Samouce's

private boutique jewelry design

studio in Miramar Beach is dripping

with delicious vintage finds.

I try really hard to avoid that happening, because it doesn’t help. I go fearless and trust my instincts, and I love it when I impress myself,” she says.

When you buy a Samouce design, a little history lesson just might be added in. “I love doing research, so I can give my customers all the details of the time period something came from, how it was worn originally and sort of paint the picture,” she says. And perhaps a little drama, too. “When I say, ‘This shoe buckle is more than 100 years-old’ their eyes just pop out,” she adds with a laugh.

Samouce’s jewelry is carried in fashion boutiques and galleries along the Emerald Coast, Vail, Colo., Ocean Springs, Miss., and Laredo, Texas. This fall her work will be featured once again on models wearing Prophetik, a couture design label by Jeff Garner of Franklin, Tenn. That collaboration placed her work on the pages of Vogue and center stage at Fashion Week events in New York, London, Paris and Vancouver. Samouce also was invited to design a custom collection for Off Saks Fifth Avenue. For someone who clasped her first heirloom necklace just three years ago, it appears the industry already adores Adorn.

Her (beacH) glass is always Half full

The power of the ocean waves crashing to shore is but a dribble compared to the sheer force of nature that is Diane Page. Educated, successful, fit and fun loving, Page seems to have leaped through life, fulfilling one dream after another.

A Smith College graduate, Page studied theater and burst on the

Boston scene, rising to local celebrity as a television personality, model, singer, actor and songwriter. In fact, Page is a world record holder. And not the kind that spins on a turntable. She is in the “Guinness Book of World Records” for being a game show host who wrote a Top 10 song. She co-wrote, “Stay the Night” with Benjamin Orr (formerly of The Cars), which became a Top 40 hit in 1986 and was Orr’s biggest hit. The game show was “Big Money” and gave away millions of dollars to lucky Bostonians.

After 30 years in entertainment, Page was ready to settle down. She married and moved to Destin. A beach lover who had long collected sea glass, she took a silver smith class and began to wrap sea glass pieces into necklaces. Soon friends were buying them right off her neck. She upgraded to sterling silver and 14 karat gold, and her jewelry design career was no longer blue sky. “It took over my life,” the Destin artist says.

Soon, Page was in search of more sea glass. She found it washed in from shipwrecks and hurricanes on the shores of the Salt Cay, an island off of Turks and Caicos. “It comes up every day and it’s old, so I’m not just dealing with broken green and brown bottles,” she says. “I’ve got lavenders from old kerosene lamps, pottery from Eton College, just lots of great stuff.”

Page confesses to using her stage presence to charm prospective shop owners, and today her sea glass jewelry designs are carried by numerous boutiques that cater to the cruise lines with upwards of 6,000 passengers sailing in and out of the Caribbean. With opposing seasons to Northwest Florida, this market outreach has given Page a year-round business. “You go where the economy is,” Page says.

This sailboat necklace and earrings set, carefully crafted from sea glass and wrapped in sterling silver, is one of Diane Page's signature designs. (Below) The design for this blue sea glass choker and earring in aluminum was inspired by the Gulf of Mexico.

Some of page’S Sea glaSS waS waShed in from ShipwreckS and hurricaneS on the ShoreS of the

Salt cay, an iSland off of turkS and caicoS.


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making. She didn’t have to go far. Her husband, John, a master blade smith, inspired her passion and expanded her knowledge of metal and how to work with it.

She employs several techniques, including oxidation, burnishing and fold forming, but her most popular pieces are those that are “flame painted.” White explains that at different temperatures, different colors emerge from metal. With skill you can paint a scene, such as sunset, in the metal. This precision takes time to master, but White is up for the task and welcomes both the trial and the error.

“It’s a challenge to get a particular color. For example in matching two earrings it can take hours to match a certain hue. And at times the metal has a mind of its own and you get some very surprising beautiful things

Page is a solo act when it comes to her jewelry designs. “I’ve never had any help. I make every piece myself,” she says. Her coastal theme is clearly evident in her popular sailboat pendants — a test in treasure hunting all their own. “Making sailboats requires hours of sorting through glass to find three little shard pieces to fit together. You have to hold them tightly. It’s a very intricate process,” she says. The process of creating something new is something Page never tires of. “I can’t wait to start making stuff every day,” she says, “I love it!”

Page says she doesn’t feel “a day over 25.” Her zest for life obviously keeps her young at heart. She spends her summers in New England and is on a pace twice a month to discover something new. “I’m all about having fun and grabbing everything out of life I can … nothing is off limits. I just do it, go for it, experience it. I mean, this is why we’re here!” she exclaims.

fireD up anD wHite HotFor someone who is afraid of fire, she did not hesitate to jump right into a fray of jewelry design and competitive art shows. At 65, Jill White has been retired as the senior vice president of Northwest Florida State College for two years, and since then she has been taking a lot of heat. Nearly every day in her Valparaiso studio she fires her butane torch up to 2,500 degrees to hand forge, burnish, fold, unfold, etch and paint silver, copper and brass into earthy yet elegant pendants, cuffs and earrings ornamented with turquoise, coral, pearls, jade, jasper and ancient stone.

An educator and lifelong learner, White, who is petite with gray-blue eyes, is “attracted to the exotic, interesting, amazing and fascinating” facets of life. If the story isn’t a page-turner for this “mental traveler and avid reader,” she’s likely not interested. This metal maven approaches her designs the same way. Though clearly contemporary, the finish and texture of her work exudes a sense of place and history … of living.

“I like anything that has a story behind it. Something where the design was inspired by something that went before and has background to it,” she confides. Yet, like the lines of her jewelry, White, and her design aesthetic, is refreshingly straight forward, perhaps the muscle memory of an English teacher who liked to give the backstory.

“Making things simple, straightforward and useful has always been a part of teaching for me,” she says. “In my jewelry, it’s important to me that it be unique, so I can tell the story and inspiration behind it, but it also must be practical and wearable.”

A quilter and collector of jewelry and antiques, White used her retirement to further explore her interest in jewelry

Flame-painted brass pendant with turquoise

beads and one of White's most popular designs —

brass cuff bracelets with a burnished and lacquered fire-scale finish. (Below,

from Left) Freshwater pearls paired with a fold-formed,

flame-painted leaf pendant; A vibrant fold-formed, flame-

painted pendant hangs on a double stranded chain of oxidized and flame-painted silver; Jill White fires up her butane torch to transform

metal into elegant, one-of-a-kind jewelry designs.

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by accident, and that’s a treat. It keeps it from being routine,” she says.

White is energized by her found passion that is “more than a hobby, but not a career.” And doesn’t think twice about spending as many as 50 to 60 hours a week in her studio to prepare for an art show. Her work has not only been well received by customers eager to scoop up her “hot” art, but also by the critics. In 2011, with just six shows under her (welding) belt, she received a Judges Award at the Destin Festival of the Arts.

Perhaps White is shaping a successful jewelry brand, because, like her designs, her strategy is simple. “I think because I use quality materials, am reasonably priced and have unusual yet wearable jewelry, people like it and are not afraid to invest in it,” she says.

wrist watcH“It was really by accident,” Jean Houndsome says of her stumble into jewelry design eight years ago. “I was bored and my boyfriend suggested I paint a pot.”

Houndsome, 39, who first came to the United States as a nanny at age 22, had never before attended an art class. She immediately ran down to the art store, loaded up on supplies and painted until three o’clock in

the morning. “I just became obsessed with it,” she says in her friendly South African accent.

After a few years of painting pots, wine glasses and Christmas decorations, she happened upon the unexpected material in an unexpected place that would help shape her as an artist — acrylic.

Seeing a construction worker fiddling with some kind of plastic piqued her interest. It took her three weeks to find it online and a year to learn to work with it. Through a process of heating, stretching, molding she forms the material into a bracelet cuff and then paints a black base before applying three layers of frosty metallic color. “I’ve always loved color. It makes me happy,” the brown-eyed artist chirps.

One of her secrets to the comfort of the bracelet is that each piece is shaped to a human wrist — the artist’s own. “I’ve tried wooden models and mannequins to make more at once, but it’s not the same, so I went back to making them one by one around my wrist,” she says.

Though passionate about it, it took some time for this shy artist to properly market her wares. “I started listening and realized customers were really surprised at how light they are on the arm. Now I know my selling points are that my pieces are light, flexible and comfortable,” Houndsome says of the two-ounce bracelets. “If I can get them to pick it up, they pretty much sell themselves.”

The same could be said of Houndsome within the competitive art show category of jewelry. She explains that in the typical art show for every 1,000 artists 400 are jewelry makers. Of those, there may be 20 open spots. The application is due six months prior to the show and requires the artist pay a fee and submit photos of their work and booth. “Sending in an application doesn’t mean you get accepted,” Houndsome explains. So she often applies to two different shows in a weekend in hopes of landing one.

Jean Houndsome’s use of lightweight acrylic painted frosty metallic colors make her designs both functional and fashionable; (Below) The Celtic Rose, Twisted Ribbon and Olive Stone are popular cuff bracelet designs by Jeanique Jewelry.

tHe accessory Hook upadorn by samouce Original modern vintage statement pieces $45–$1,400esty.com or adornbysamouce.com(850) 797-7956

bizzy lizzy HandbagsCustom fabric “memory” handbagsBizzy Lizzy$65–$100 (with fur provided)[email protected](850) 449-5575

Jeanique JewelryHandcrafted and painted acrylic cuffs and necklaces$45–$69jeaniquejewelry.com

Diane page Designer beach glass JewelryCoastal-inspired wired- wrapped sea glass$25–$185dianepage.com

Jill white JewelryContemporary, organic fired metal pieces $35–$250jillwhitejewelry.com

save tHe Date!Meet the jewelry and handbag designers featured in our story and many more at these arty events along the Emerald Coast and beyond.

sept. 3–5Baytowne Art ExpoThe Village of Baytowne Wharf

oct. 27–28Destin Festival of the ArtsHenderson Beach State Park

nov. 24Holiday MarketRosemary Beach

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Bizzy Lizzy founder/designer Liz Hamrick reinvents wedding gowns, vintage furs and ball gowns into keepsake "memory"

bags out of her home studio in Pensacola. (At top) Handmade handbags fashioned from cast-off mink stoles and designer

bridesmaid gowns and embellished with heirloom brooches like these pictured are a novelty for Emerald Coast fashionistas who

carry them dressed to the nines and dressed down in jeans.


Based in Atlanta, Houndsome displays and sells her work under the name, Jeanique Jewelry, at art shows eight months of the year — festivals along the Emerald Coast being her favorite. In the end, the customer makes it all right. “Nothing is more fulfilling than to stand in your booth and have people love your work. The satisfaction from that is really awesome,” she says.

a HanD(bag) full of memoriesBizzy Lizzy just slowed her dizzying pace. Liz Hamrick,

whose Penscacola-based company is known as Bizzy Lizzy, has created 2,500 one-of-a-kind handmade handbags out of her home studio over the past dozen years.

With a fulltime job as the event planner for the Pensacola Sports Association and three kids between the ages of 8 and 12 to attend to, she has ramped down her sewing machine to focus solely on her specialty — keepsake custom bags made from wedding gowns and vintage furs. “I started doing not what you have to do, but what you want to do,” she says.

Hamrick’s foray into fashion accessories unfolded slowly. She was making pillows and curtains for her home on a borrowed sewing machine when a friend noticed them and asked Hamrick to make handbags for her boutique in downtown Pensacola (where Skin is located now). Hamrick got a pattern and made them from pieces of fabric. They were a hit and sold fast, so she kept at it.

A few years later another friend suggested she upgrade her fabric to designer swatches. It took several years, but eventually she formed fast relationships with several designers. “After awhile they would just call me when they were getting rid of $220-a-yard samples. They hate to see them wasted, so it was a win-win,” she says.

Next came embellishments. “I began to adorn them with vintage broaches, line them with handkerchiefs or use different things for the handles and it just evolved,” she says.

One day a friend was making holiday stockings trimmed in fur and gave Hamrick her scraps, and the Bizzy Lizzy fur bag was born. When a close friend was fitted for her Kleinfeld’s bridal gown, Hamrick knew just what to do with the trim. She used platinum satin from the bridesmaid’s gown, layered it with trim from the bride’s dress and added sparkling pave bracelets as the handles.

Now, clients clamor to have Hamrick convert treasures, wedding gowns and family furs into customized keepsake handbags. “It’s a sentimental thing to make something special from vintage things,” Hamrick says wistfully.

The designer is thrilled to see women around town carrying them out to special events. But after more than a decade since they debuted, not all of her “babies” have remained with their original owners. “Now I see my handbags in second-hand stores all over. It’s kind of cool, but then I think, ‘Hey, blonde mink is really hard to come by. Dad gum, I’ll buy that back!’” the spunky designer says with a laugh.

Some of Hamrick’s longtime customers have collected up to 15 bags. Michelle Henghold of Pensacola has several of Hamrick’s bags in beaver, blonde mink and silver mink. “It’s nice to have a little fur,” she admits. “And because it’s recycled it doesn’t offend anyone,” she says. For Henghold, Bizzy Lizzy bags are not only beautiful, but practical, too. “The crystal bracelet handles make them more of a pretty accessory than a purse. And you can carry a glass of wine and be hands free,” she says.

Henghold, who wears designs by both Bizzy Lizzy and Adorn by Samouce, says statement pieces of any kind encourage self-expression. “They are different than anything out there. They are pieces of wearable art worth the investment. You’ll have it forever, and it’s better than anything you could purchase in a store. I think it encourages people to be more original,” she says.

Though all different, it is easy to see that the designs of all of these accessory artists personify that Latin definition of jewelry — playful, indeed. ec

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http://www.samtaylor.com

http://www.21stcenturyoncology.com


PROFESSIONAL PROFILES

S p e c i A l A d v e r t i S i n g S e c t i o n

It’s all about trust. Choices are made every day to consult professionals on matters as varied as hair styling and legal representation. In this special

advertising section of EC Magazine, meet some of the area’s top professionals in their fields who are dedicated to earning your trust

while providing their specialized services to you.



It is hard to believe that 2012 marks my 17th year in the marine industry. After

graduating from the University of Scranton with a degree in Marketing, I began my career in the early ’90s working for Viking Yacht Company in production/domestic sales and later became an international sales representative. I consider myself fortunate to have had the unique opportunity to work very closely with all of the Viking Yacht dealerships worldwide and get to know them inside and out. With that background, my decision to join the best dealership in all the categories important to me to further support my values, commitment and growth was thoroughly reinforced with Galati Yacht Sales.

I joined Galati in early January of 2000 several months after the grand opening of the Destin office in the Emerald Coast of Florida to help the marketing, distributing, servicing, promoting and selling of Viking Yachts primarily in the Gulf of Mexico. As the premier Viking Dealer for the Gulf, we were

fortunate to introduce such technologically advanced and quality products from a solid company backed by the commitment to “build a better boat every day” philosophy that we still embrace today. With the rapid growth of the regional market (Louisiana, Florida, Georgia, Texas and Alabama) the Southeast quickly became my second home.

Twelve years later I still continue to enjoy meeting new people and building lasting relationships as I help customers specifically tailor the right match in model, product, engine, style and budget for themselves and their families. In doing so I specialize primarily in the sale of new and pre-owned Vikings for cruising and sportfishing enthusiasts with a strong knowledge and focus on comparable production and custom convertibles alike. A great buying opportunity now exists on later model large Motoryachts in the 100' plus range in addition to an increased desire of my customer base to fish exotic spots all over the world. I have honed and studied

the Motoryacht business to help meet my clients’ desires to run a mother-ship program with sportfishing vessels to new and exciting destination spots. The Motoryacht allows for a home base to host and entertain family, friends and clients in these new frontiers with amazing fishing potential.

When not directly engaging with customers, I am actively monitoring and analyzing pre-owned market stats including current availability, product sales, comps and values. With a close niche in the Viking Community, great friendships and relationships with the company, I enjoy staying in the loop on refined product improvements, the latest and greatest in product design, incentives and availability so I can pass this information along and keep clients up to speed.

Come see me. I really look forward to meeting you and earning your confidence to help you in your search for your next yachting experience.

Jim AzzoliniViking Yacht New & Pre-owned Specialist

Galati Yacht Sales126 Harbor Blvd. Destin, FL 32541 I C 850.259.3246 I O 850.654.1575 I [email protected]




What kind of law do you specialize in? Matthews Jones & Hawkins transaction and litigation teams encompass a full spectrum of real estate representation, estate planning, asset protection, corporate reorganization and complex work-out transactions, bankruptcy, civil, criminal, family law and personal injury. The firm has attorneys licensed in federal and state courts in Florida, Mississippi, South Carolina, Texas, District of Columbia Alaska and has offices in Destin and Niceville.

What is your business philosophy? We truly believe hard work and our free enterprise system in a democratic society make it possible to turn dreams into reality. When you incorporate that concept into the desire to provide unparalleled service

to clients in need, success and client satisfaction will result.

What is the “secret” to your success? Client service is key to our law practice. Our clients can expect an honest assessment of their legal situation without empty promises. We strive to develop relationships with each and every client so that our attorneys and staff have a clear understanding of each individual client’s personal and business needs.

Tell us about your recent expansion of staff and services. Dana Matthews started the Destin firm in 1983. Michael Jones had his own firm and since 1984 served our region with diligence, compassion and integrity in the areas of personal injury, probate and estate planning.

“Mike and I have been best friends since age 12 and decided to spend the rest of our careers working side by side,” says Dana Matthews. Over the past year they hired three new attorneys to handle the firm’s growing litigation practice.

You made a bold choice to use a panther to symbolize your firm in your marketing campaign. Why? The Florida panther’s strength, agility and tenacity are the qualities our clients expect and deserve.

What does the future hold for your firm? The growth and success of Matthews Jones & Hawkins throughout the past quarter century has been tied to the growth and vitality of Northwest Florida. We expect that relationship to continue into the future.

Matthews Jones & Hawkins, LLP

Matthews Jones & Hawkins, LLP4475 Legendary Drive, Destin I 850.837.3662 323 E. John Sims Parkway, Niceville I 850.729.7440

Michael Jones and Dana Matthews

destinlaw.com




About Our Company Since it was first founded in 1876 BancorpSouth has met the banking needs of the communities we serve through a series of community banks managed with an entrepreneurial spirit. Our banks team with their communities to grow by actively participating in public-private partnerships that help build communities and provide a better way of life for all of their citizens. With nearly 300 locations in nine states, including two offices in Northwest Florida, we give you regional banking convenience with the community banking service you deserve.

Meet Our Northwest Florida Bank Officers

Ron Moliterno, Northwest Florida Division President Ron joined BancorpSouth in 2008 and manages the operation and growth of the bank in Northwest Florida. With more than 35

years in the industry, his experience includes both commercial and retail banking. Ron is actively engaged in the community working with several charitable, civic and cultural organizations. He is a board member with the Okaloosa Economic Development Council, Sacred Heart Foundation and Leadership Walton, where he also serves as a mentor.

Theri Isaacs, Northwest Florida Division Retail Banking Manager Theri has worked in the banking industry in Okaloosa County for 23 years. She is licensed in real estate, investments and insurance and has been awarded numerous awards through-out her banking career. Theri is a member of the area Chambers of Commerce and serves on the board of directors for various charitable civic and cultural organizations.

Linnette Wagers, Commercial Banking Linnette began her banking career 22 years

ago. She specializes in Small Business Administration (SBA) lending and working with business owners to meet their financial needs. She is on the board of the Fort Walton Beach Kiwanis and Okaloosa County Head Start and a Fort Walton Beach Housing Commissioner. Linnette is a native of Fort Walton Beach and a 2005 graduate of the Okaloosa County Leadership program. Linnette is a Certified Treasury Professional.

Brooks O’Hara, Branch Manager Brooks began his banking career in 2007 and was quickly promoted to a leadership position. He joined BancorpSouth in 2011 and manages the bank’s Seagrove branch, where he is responsible for meeting the needs of current customers while developing new relationships with business owners in the community. He is a board member of the Destin Kiwanis and a member of the Walton area chamber of commerce.

BancorpSouth

BancorpSouth4507 Furling Lane, Suite 116, Destin FL 32541 I 850.269.5460 I bancorpsouthonline.com

Linnette, Brooks, Ron and Theri




Joseph Rogers, Owner

Deke Lee

What do you do or what services do you provide? Avantgarde is a full-service salon and spa. We offer hair services, nail services, body and skin treatments such as massages, body wraps, exfoliation treatments and facials with a variety of customized services to fit our clients’ needs.

You have garnered many prestigious salon industry awards. Tell us about them. Having been in the salon business for 20 years, we are proud to have been voted Best Salon, Best Hair Stylist, Best Massage and Best Aesthetician by EC magazine readers. We were an Emerald Coast Top Salon finalist in 2011 and have been named a Top 200 Salon in the United States by Salon Today for 10 consecutive years.

How do you remain a cutting edge salon? Experience and education. Our entire salon team has extensive AVEDA training, and we provide them with continuing education courses. We have three AVEDA trained educators on staff.

Avantgarde is always on top of new beauty trends. Tell us what your clients are loving currently. One of the latest additions to our service list is Xtreme Lashes Eyelash Extensions by Kelly, our certified lash stylist. It is a semi-permanent eyelash extension made from single strands of synthetic lashes that are applied to your own natural lashes one at a time.

Avantgarde is a community-minded company. Tell us about some of your current activities. We have always focused our attention on the welfare of local children with support of important organizations such as Children In Crisis and the Emerald Coast Children’s Advocacy Center. We hope to bring awareness to key women’s issues such as breast cancer and human trafficking through our support of the Emerald Coast Humanity Outreach Organization (ECHO). We use earth-friendly products and are environmentally conscious, so we host events and activities surrounding Earth Day and Earth Month.

Avantgarde SalonDestin Commons I 4104 Legendary Drive Suite A101, Destin

850.654.1303 I avantgardeaveda.com

Avantgarde Salon & SpaShoppes of Destiny I 36236 Emerald Coast Pkwy., Suite A, Destin

850.654.5057 I avantgardeaveda.com




AT LECIEL AT SANDESTINNOVEMBER 10 I 6PM

PRESENTING SPONSOR: BLUEWATER PLASTIC SURGERY

Top Salon is back! For the second year, ten of the area’s most popular salons will compete for the title of Emerald Coast’s Top Salon!

Competing salons will make over a model and the transformations will be unveiled in a runway show on November 10 at 6pm. A panel of judges and all attendees will cast votes to determine the Top Salon of the Emerald Coast.

Check out the next issue of EC Magazine when we unveil the Top Ten Salons competing in the contest, and the before shots of the models. Top Salon will receive bragging rights, $10,000 advertising schedule, and a portion of the proceeds will benefi t the winning salon’s favorite charity.

Tickets are $50 and include two drink coupons, heavy hors d’oeuvres and automatic entry to win a 3-day/2-night getaway.

Visit TopSalonEC.com to purchase your tickets before they sell out.

PRESENTINGSPONSOR:

12EC_AS_RPI TopSalon.indd 1 7/13/12 3:44 PM

http://www.topsalonec.com


the good lifeFood + Travel + HealTH + Home


eudaimonia*

Ride On, Destin!What goes up and down, forwards and backwards, can hover and is red all over? A helicopter, of course!

Pilot Justin Johnson has partnered with Charles Duplantis and Ray Watson to offer rides in the sky to locals and visitors. Timberview Helicopter Rides offers rides out of the Destin Airport. For $49 you can fly above it all and get a fresh perspective on the beautiful Emerald Coast during a 10-mile Intro Flight.

Nearly anyone can climb aboard the R44 four-seat “chopper,” which operates daily from 10 a.m. to late evening, weather permitting. “We’ve had what we call lap kids that are as young as two up to folks who are 90 years old,” Ray Watson says. The helicopter can carry up to three passengers. Reservations are not necessary; you can simply walk up to the kiosk located in the

southwest corner of the Destin Commons parking lot.Feeling adventurous? The Emerald Tour, which starts at $199 per

person, is a customized trip that flies wherever a passenger might like to go. “Some folks want to go to Panama City or Pensacola, some want to be dropped off and picked up on an island,” Watson says. The most popular helicopter rides are the Beach Run that hugs 12 miles of the coastline and the Jaws Run, which is an 18-mile trip over the Gulf of Mexico to spot dolphin, stingrays and yes, the occasional shark.

Watson says experiencing a helicopter ride first hand would be far better than anything he could describe. But the first word that does come to mind for him is “peaceful.” Ride on! — Zandra Wolfgram

*happiness is ...

in motion

p addle boarding has people of all ages stand-ing up and paying attention to this new way to play on the water. To say the sport is “new” is not technically correct. The subset of surfing

was practiced by ancient Hawaiians and refined by surfers throughout the last century. Paddle boarding came to the Emerald Coast a few years ago, and it soon became common to see people who at first glance appeared to be standing on the water in area lakes, bayous, the bay and the Gulf.

The popularity of the sport has spawned several paddle board race and endurance events that invite the novice and pro out on the water (sometimes in full costume) to test a whole other type of “water boarding” skill during individual and team competitions.

Ask paddle boarders about the sport and you’ll get a surge of enthusiasm: “It’s like walking on water.” “The best cross-training exercise ever for your body core.” “Since you are standing, you can enjoy and explore the beauty of nature all around you.” “A sport that the whole family can do together.” “A great way to fish.” “Races are challeng-ing and competitive.” “You haven’t seen a sunrise or sunset until you experience it from your paddle board.” “Yoga on a paddle board is awesome.”

Although the experience may be dif-ferent for each person, paddle boarders agree on one main point: Paddle board-ing is easy. Magda Cooper, co-founder of BOTE Paddleboards in Destin, said she has done demos for 10-year-olds up to 80-year-olds. “We’ve never had a single person who can’t stand up on a paddle board,” she said. “It doesn’t require some amazing amount of balance. It’s a sport anyone can do, no matter what age or gender.”

The ease of paddle boarding is one reason the sport has caught on so quickly, according to Steve Hill, owner of the Destin-based GUSU Paddlesports. “No matter who does it — a pro or a guy who started paddle boarding last week — you are pretty much doing the same thing. You’re just paddling and having a good time,” Hill said.

“It’s exciting because the onset of the stand-up paddling

movement is getting people out on the water who otherwise wouldn’t venture out on a board,” said Jeff Archer, co-found-er of Santa Rosa Beach-based YOLO Board LLC. “Begin-ner paddlers are often surprised at how easy it is.”

To get started, it takes only a board, a paddle and a body of water, plus a Coast Guard approved PFD (personal flotation device).

A general rule is that board size should fit your height and weight. Surf-style boards that float on the water and water displacement models are available. A first-timer will be most comfortable in calm, flat waters. Getting on the board can be as simple as stepping aboard from the beach, or climbing up from wading-deep water. To get your bal-ance, kneel just past the center of the board.

When ready to stand on the board, place first one foot and then the other where your knees were. Feet should be parallel, about hip-distance apart, toes pointing forward, knees slightly bent and back straight. Balance with your hips, not your head.

According to Cooper, your paddle should be about 8 to 10 inches taller than you are. Strokes should be close to the board and fairly short until you get the hang of it. Paddle boarding is like riding a bicycle: The more forward mo-mentum you have, the more stability.

Area paddle board shops offer demos as well as lessons to teach the finer points of paddling. Lessons are typically an hour to an hour-and-a- half and cost around $40. Rentals are widely available.

Perhaps the most difficult part of paddle boarding is navigating all the acronyms. Paddle boarding is also known as SUP (Stand Up Boarding). Pop-ular board brand name YOLO stands for You Only Live Once. Destin’s GUSU (Get Up Stand Up) is a retailer of their board designs as well as boards made by other compa-nies. BOTE is not an acronym, but based on the German word for “boat.” The Destin-based designer/manufacturer sells its own brand both wholesale and retail. Stand-up paddle boards are also available in sporting goods and ma-rine stores. ec

All AgeS, fitneSS levelS love the bAlAnce thiS Simple wAter Sport giveS their liveS

By JenniFer Howard

Get on Board


We’ve never had a single person who can’t stand up on a paddle board. It doesn’t require some amazing amount of balance. It’s a sport anyone can do, no matter what age or gender.” — Magda Cooper

EmEraldCoastmagazinE.Com August–September 2012 73Photo by Scott Holstein

magda Cooper, co-founder of BotE Boards and competitive paddle board racer, challenges her workout atop a Wraith ss 12' 6", which she paddles near the destin Pass.


going places

We’Re SWeet On ‘Salty’ FRanklin COuntyApAlAchicolA, St. george iSlAnd And cArrAbelle Are rich in hiStory, mAritime AdventureS And yeS … freSh oySterS!By Zandra wolFgram

t o say Franklin County is charming and quaint is like saying kittens are cute and cuddly. It can’t possibly be overstated. One thing destination

promoters like to say is that Franklin County — situated on the Northwest Florida Gulf Coast 80 miles southwest of Tallahassee — is “salty.” Though our late summer visit made us “sweet” on these cozy coastal towns, with their rich history, maritime adventures, famous oysters and plucky townsfolk passionate to leave lasting legacies, we couldn’t agree more.

History lessons GaloreThe Franklin County area has reinvented itself time and time again. The area came of age in the 1800s and like scenes in a storied play it has thrived by changing over time. Apalachicola was established in 1831 and was soon the third largest port in the country. By 1867 Apalachicola declined as a cotton port as the east-west railroad system expanded. In the late 1800s it became a turnkey destination for lumber mills — and it became a place where fishermen’s dreams were fulfilled with fleets of fishing and shrimping boats. Now, only a handful of aging shrimp boats dot the weathered waterfront as another era slips quietly into the past. Today, the charming towns of Apalachicola, St. George Island and Carrabelle are well-dressed windows

welcoming yet another thriving industry to Franklin County — tourism.

Just strolling the wide, tree-lined streets of Apalachicola will take you back in time. And you don’t have to go too far into town before finding several must-visit museums. Thomas Orman was a resourceful entrepreneur who set his sights on capitalizing on the up and coming port of Apalachicola. His hunch paid off and over the years he was one of the most successful businessmen in the region, owning multiple blocks in town, warehouses along the wharf and a plantation on the outskirts of town. The Orman House was built in 1838 from cypress and long leaf pine shipped in from Syracuse, N.Y. The tour of the house and the animated tale of what transpired

there before, during and after the Civil War, given by Park Ranger Mike Kinnett, was a stage-worthy performance.

A trip to Apalache (as locals call it) wouldn’t be complete without a visit to the John Gorrie Museum to learn about the remarkable physician, scientist, humanitarian and inventor whose “ice machine” revolutionized life in the south, if not the world. It’s hard not to take a glass of ice water for granted in this day and age, but an up close look

at Gorrie’s simple invention and its indelible impact will leave you thirsting to know more about this modest 19th century pioneer.

George Kirvin Floyd descended from

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eventful Fall Happenings16th Annual florida Scallop & music festival, aug. 3–4

florida lighthouse day, aug. 7

franklin county oyster festival, oct. 5–7

forgotten coast black bear festival, oct. 6

crooked river lighthouse lantern fest 2012, oct. 26–28

29th Annual florida Seafood festival, nov. 2–3


Where to Stayresort vacation Properties (pet friendly!)125 w. gulf beach drive, St. george island(866) 927-2322

Collin’s vacation rentals, inc.50 east gulf beach drive, St. george island(877) 859-9329

Coombs House inn80 Sixth St., Apalachicola(850) 653-9199

gibson inn51 Avenue c, Apalachicola(850) 653-2191

water Street Hotel & marina329 water Street, Apalachicola(888) 211-9239

St. James Bay golf resort151 laughing gull lane, carrabelle(850) 697-9606

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(Clockwise from left) the Venezellos is just one nostalgic backdrop perfect for snapping keepsake photos on the apalachicola waterfront; the recently renovated Cape st. george light is located at the center of st. george island; sailing on the apalachicola river basin provides a unique perspective of the historic coastal town; the raney room is one of 23 beautifully-appointed Victorian guest rooms in the Coombs inn; tours of this antebellum home of noted Confederate soldier William orman bring history alive.


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a long line of Southern boat builders who knew the Apalachicola River like the back of their well-worn hands. After a successful corporate career in Chicago, Floyd returned to his coastal hometown to “do something to nourish the human spirit and renew interest in the river.” He recently launched the Apalachicola Maritime Museum on the riverbank to preserve, celebrate and promote the maritime heritage of Apalachicola with hands-on experiences such as sailing, boat-building, restoration and educational displays.

Museum visitors can explore the river via a rowboat, canoe or kayak. Or opt for a guided tour aboard an airboat, sail boat, catamaran or Floyd’s pride and joy — the Heritage of Apalachicola, a 58’ wooden ketch, which embarks on one to seven-day adventure trips with all meals included. But you don’t have to sail the river to get a lesson in history. Simply relax on the riverfront dock with the locals and chat over a cup of joe from the museum coffee shop.

A visit to the newly restored Cape St. George Light is the perfect way to get some perspective on the island. Scoot up the 92 heart pine steps and shimmy through the scuttle hole for a breathtaking view. This is the fourth structure constructed of the historic lighthouse. Local volunteers helped salvage 22,000 original bricks used to build the new 77-foot structure in 2008. It stands adjacent to the St. George Island Visitor Center and the newly opened Lighthouse Keeper’s Museum and Gift Shop. Be sure to ask about reserving a spot to see the next “moon rise” ($15 per person).

Venture to Carrabelle, an easy 25-minute drive east of Apalachicola, to explore the Carrabelle History Museum, the Camp Gordon Johnston World War II Museum and the Crooked River Lighthouse. This little village is not all that sleepy. One longtime local told us, “Carrabelle is a little drinking town with a fishing problem.” We have it on good account that these locals will celebrate nearly anything without much provocation. One of the most popular events is a Lantern Festival held at the lighthouse each October. This year is the 117th anniversary of the famed lighthouse and it will be marked by art, music, storytelling and a lantern workshop.

adventures and Delightful DistractionsIf you can pull yourself away from the pristine beaches and charming shops, you’ll find no shortage of things to do throughout Franklin County for all ages.

Water lovers will find no better guide than Capt. Chester Reese with Natural World Charters operating out of the Carrabelle Boat Club to explore the Carrabelle River, Dog Island and Gulf waters. We hopped aboard The Eagle for an eco-tour and spotted dolphin, jelly fish and scores of shore birds on our excursion, while hearing several salty tales. As Capt. Reese tells, “In the early 1700s and late 1800s wayward sailors without paperwork were called ‘dogs’ and if they didn’t behave, were cast off on Dog Island to straighten out or dry out as the case may be.”

If you want to feel as though you have gone to the end of the earth, simply venture to St. George Island State Park. Here you can picnic, hike, swim, bike and camp, but we went there to fish, and it was the highlight of our trip. For the price of admission ($6 per adult), you can feel as though you are the last person on earth … priceless!

One of the most memorable points of interest on this trip was the Apalachicola National Estuarine Research Reserve. Nestled in the pines of East Point, this state-of-the-art facility captivated our entire family. Informative National Geographic-style films, interactive wall murals, walls lined with artifacts and indigenous species, touch tanks and loads of great literature on the natural phenomenon of the

(Clockwise from left) the dixie theatre, which marks its centennial anniversary in 2012, stages nearly 20 live productions each season; at one time more than 50,000 apalachicola oysters were exported daily; Capt. Chester reese scoops up a jellyfish during an eco-tour of the apalachicola Bay and area islands.


5 Places to Visitapalachicola national estuarine research reserve 108 island drive, east point(850) 670-7700

dixie Theatre21 Avenue e, Apalachicola(850) 653-3200dixietheatre.com

apalachicola maritime museum103 water St., Apalachicola(850) 653-2500

dog islandnatural world Charters(850) 228-9060Ask for capt. chester reese

The orman House 177 fifth St., Apalachicola(850) 653-1209Ask for a tour by ranger mike Kinnett

estuary made us thirsty for more and we ventured back for a second visit before our stay ended.

Apalachicola is filled with characters and a few of them are in the spotlight at the Dixie Theatre. This gem of a space seats 180 and showcases nearly 20 dramatic, music and dance performances each year. The theater was an eyesore and had not been open since 1967 until it was renovated and re-opened in 1998 by theater-lovers Rex and Cleo Partington, whose daughter, Dixie, currently serves as the producing director. This year marks the theater’s 100th anniversary for what is now one of the few family-owned and operated professional theaters in the country.

Cracking Open the Mystery of Oysters For an oyster lover, it’s one thing to visit the town that supplies 90 percent of Florida and 10 percent of the nation with its oysters. It’s a whole other thing to meet the man who actually tonged my oyster supper that very morning.

Zach Thompson began tonging for oysters at age 14. The day we met, he launched his oyster boat at 4 a.m. and by 1 p.m. had hauled in 14 60-pound bags of oysters to the dock. His oysters make it on the menu of many of the restaurants in the area. Where does this oyster expert go for the freshest bivalves in Apalachicola? Boss Oyster. So we did, too. And we were not disappointed. You can certainly enjoy them au natural, or 21 other ways, including St. George-style: with asparagus, garlic shallots and Colby cheese. We don’t think you can go wrong with a menu that boasts: “Your oyster is our world!”

There is dining beyond oysters in Franklin County. Head to Harry A’s Restaurant & Bar for fresh seafood, burgers and salads dished up in a casual atmosphere. Tamara’s Café Floridita serves up Florida flavor with South American flair. The Owl Café is known for its extensive wine list, pasta and homemade desserts. Dining in the comfort of your vacation rental home or condo? Be sure to stop by the Sometimes It’s Hotter Seasoning Company on St. George Island for a huge selection of homemade seasonings and sauces that are sure to spice up any meal. ecPhoto

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habitat

if you’re a home fashionista, try stopping in at a junkyard. There you might en-counter such delicious finds as a sheet of rusty corrugated tin, a dented locker or a

one-wheeled lawn mower.Shaking your head in disbelief? Then you

haven’t seen the “Picker Sisters,” the new hit show on Lifetime. Here, two top designers take a trailer truck to the hinterlands, rummaging through sal-vage yards for stuff to become high-priced home furnishings back at their studio.

Nor have you encountered Debbie Weant-Lane, the owner of 30-A Art & Junk Gallery in Santa Rosa Beach. She loves repurposing cast-offs, including items so decrepit that most of us would hurry past them. With irrepressible humor and imagination, she turns old pieces of wood, tin, rope and what-nots into angels, mermaids and signs while unlikely finds like funnels, birdcages, metallic dress forms and cake pans become lamps or chandeliers.

One of her most recent projects was a cast-off sink, complete with a Formica surround. She turned it into a fountain. Another was a 1960s store display with metal clips for hanging maga-zines. In its new life, it’s a lamp with magazine pages working as a shade.

Currently she’s contemplating the possibilities of a huge car fender. “It reminds me of a whale,” she says. “Perhaps it’ll become a sculpture.”

industrial antiquesThe most prized repurposed items often come from old factories and warehouses, so they’ve be-come known as industrial antiques. It’s a category that Antiques Weekly, a trade publication for deal-ers, calls “strong and especially exciting to younger collectors.” But the magazine acknowledges that the category is subject to strong regional differ-ences. That’s true of the Emerald Coast, according to Cathy Abrams of Abrams Antiques in Destin.

“Since we aren’t known for factories, things from places like old stores, farms, hotels, boats and fisheries become our ‘industrials,’” she explains.

She’s a strong believer in repurposing, calls it “a very green thing to do,” and tells about old furniture surviving hurricanes and floods in New Orleans and Mobile.

“It brought back to me how well-made old things are,” she says. “Plus they are beautiful, af-fordable and save rooms from boredom and steril-ity. I try to instill in my customers’ psyche that they should put something old in a room to make it ‘pop.’ In my own house in Niceville, an old coat

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and hat rack now holds towels in the bath-room and a cabinet from a dentist’s office holds my jewelry.”

Found ObjectsAt Antiques on Holiday in Destin, industri-als are often architectural salvage. Co-owner Ann Hopkins finds a lot of call for iron gates and old doors, but she doesn’t shy away from offering more unusual items. She tells of a sewage grate that became a patio table; a vintage casket cart turned into a coffee table; and pieces of a late 1800s carousel reworked as a bed.

“Then there’s the restaurant using iron po-tato baskets as light fixtures,” she says. “And we sold a confessional to a vintage clothing shop where it became a dressing room.”

In her own home, she uses an old smoke-house door on top of two filing cabinets as her desk, an antique spiral staircase works as a bookcase, a birdhouse is a light fixture and her dining table is created from re-claimed wood with large architectural frag-ments acting as legs.

“When you put on your creative goggles, almost any found object can be repurposed,” she says. “Besides, this’ll link us to the past. That’s a good thing.”

a trend is BornAs antiques go, oddball found objects

are a new phenomenon. It began in the late 1900s when living in vintage industrial or commercial spaces became the height of chic in big cities. Those large spaces called for over-sized, gritty-style furnishings, and what could be better than the pieces that made them function in the first place? Stain-less steel worktables and giant work lights moved in and were immediately declared gorgeous by home magazines.

Soon the high-ceilinged rooms and large windows characteristic of urban lofts became popular in new housing everywhere, and stainless steel, commercial-grade appliances became kings of kitchens. Some industrial items, such as wheeled foundry trolleys and tripod lamps, have even gone so mainstream that they’re being reproduced by companies like Restoration Hardware and Pottery Barn.

Since those early days of the loft revolu-tion, the world of industrial antiques has undergone a huge expansion. It now also en-compasses furnishings, fixtures, building el-ements, equipment and tools from virtually any commercial establishment or institution.

Current favorites include shelving, any-thing with wheels and gears, Singer sewing tables and stools, carts from the days preced-ing the conveyor belt, dipping baskets, pal-lets and lockers.

Other categories of industrials are: molds and patterns for cast iron parts; architectural salvage, such as cast iron columns;

institutional lighting; gates and fencing; and stone statues, planters and benches.

There’s a myriad of additional specialties. “If it’s old and graphically striking, it be-comes an artifact,” says Hopkins.

Designers’ DarlingsInterior designers have adopted the trend, too. Paula Ford of Santa Rosa Beach, for ex-ample, says that she routinely creates rooms that incorporate found objects.

“Even when I design a new kitchen, I like to make room for vintage elements,” she tells. “It might be an old buffet, a plate hold-er, a hutch. For one client, I made a chande-lier out of tractor parts, and the seat of the tractor became a bar stool.”

“It’s the most comfortable seat in the house,” comments the client. “In our kitchen, Paula also covered the fridge with weathered barn wood. Often visitors ask how we can live without a refrigerator. They don’t realize something so rustic can be an appliance.”

Corrugated tin, wall sconces, benches from old churches and old iron railings are items that Ford snaps up whenever she sees them. Shades of the Picker Sisters? What do you do with rusty tin? Well, Ford likes it as backing for bookcases. And who said that a bench always has to be for seating? This de-signer has been known to hang it on the wall and call it a bookcase.

as is or notSome dealers offer industrials pretty much the way they found them, just cleaning off the worst grime and letting collectors

decide their use. Other dealers pres-ent them in repur-posed form.

But where do dealers and de-signers go for their finds? Yes, they go to auc-tions and estate sales and keep up with buildings headed for demoli-tion, but many actu-ally go through curb-side trash or trawl junk and salvage yards.

Paula Ford, for one, doesn’t mind getting her hands dirty. She loves digging through attics, basements, farmyards and trash by the road. “I can’t resist items that wear their his-tory on their ragged sleeves,” she comments.

But is all this a fad? Will industrials go the way of so many collectibles that were hot for a few years, then dropped off the radar screen?

Hopkins and Ford don’t think it’s a fad. Lots of vintage objects are classics, they say. Besides, the field is so wide that nobody will ever have a chance to tire of it.

“A tractor, old airplane parts, that sort of thing, reminds us of the inventiveness and energy that made us the engine of the world,” says Ford. “Yes, I think people will remain interested, but the key is to give those gritty items a softer edge, mix them with other things.” ec

(left) this alabama lake house, designed by local designer Paula Ford, is filled with "found" furnishings such as the rustic reclaimed wood table topped with fishing floats and the renewed vintage wicker and rattan settee. (above) old cast-offs, such as the flour sack upholstered ottomans, wooden ladder and chalkboard panel, find renewed purpose in this office. (right) this eccentric coat rack/lamp from antiques on Holiday in miramar Beach is a great example of how to reinvent home décor.

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http://www.drbawa.com/

https://www.facebook.com/pages/PS-Gifts/158531344216

http://www.freedomboatclub.com


gardening

MS. GROW-it-all By audrey PoST

Q: We’d like to landscape our place at the coast. What do you recommend we plant? We pretty much have a blank canvas, but it will need to be hardy since we’re usually not there during the week.

Coastal gardening has its own set of conditions and re-wards, but before we get into specifics about what to plant, let’s ad-dress the hardiness aspect. All plants, even those that thrive on neglect, have to be watered regularly until they are well established. If we get our normal pattern of daily afternoon showers and storms through late summer, your new landscape should be just fine whether you’re there or not. But if Mother Nature decides to mix things up — and she has certainly shown her mischievous side the past couple of years with two colder-than-normal winters followed by a downright balmy one — you need to be prepared to provide supplemental watering.

The key factors in coastal gardening in the Florida Panhandle and Big Bend are salt, wind, cold-hardiness and alkaline soil. A lot of plants that thrive farther inland can’t take salt spray, and the breeze carries the salt farther than many people realize. If you’re within a quarter-mile of the coast, plan on planting salt-tolerant trees and shrubs. The constant breeze, punctuated by occasional high winds, also can shred a delicate plant, so choose sturdy plants. You can create windbreaks using fences or groups of trees. Trees planted in groups are better able to withstand tropical storms and hurricanes than a lone tree in the landscape. And even though the coastal areas don’t get as cold as it does farther inland, you still need to remember that it does drop down to freezing on occasion. Not all plants that thrive along the coast in Central and South Florida will survive a North Florida winter.

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Garden Tasks➺ Remember to check your plants in pots daily. In the late

summer heat, potted plants usually need to be watered at least once a day and sometimes more often.

➺ Make sure to dump anything that collects rainwater after a shower to reduce the chance of mosquito infestation. Prod-ucts are available for ponds, birdbaths and other stand-ing water features that kill mosquito larva but don’t affect other wildlife.

➺ Fertilize citrus in early August.

➺ Cut back long-blooming perennials and annuals that have become leggy — such as salvia, coneflowers and zinnias — for a burst of new flowers in late summer.

➺ In August, sow seeds for a late summer crop of bush beans or squash, or for fall crops of broccoli, turnips and collards.

➺ Make sure to do your gardening chores in the relative cool of the early morning. Stay hydrated; wear sunscreen and a hat!

© 2012 postscript publishing, all rights reserved. Audrey post is a certified Ad-vanced master gardener volunteer with the university of florida ifAS extension in leon county. email her at [email protected] or visit her website at ms-growitall.com. ms. grow-it-All® is a registered trademark of postscript publishing.

A plant can be classified as salt tolerant, which means you can plant it on the beach side of your home; moderately salt-tolerant, which means it can take a bit of salt drift but will do better if there’s a buffer between it and the direct spray coming off the beach, such as other plants that are more salt-tolerant; slightly salt-tolerant, which means you should plant it in a sheltered location on the street side instead of the beach side; or not salt-tolerant, which means it will not survive at the beach.

The best choices for long-lived, salt tolerant trees are a live oak, Quercus virginiana, and one of the many varieties loosely called “palm trees” that do well along the Gulf Coast. The cabbage palm, Sabal palmetto, and Washington palm, Washingtonia species, are salt-tolerant. Several others are moderately salt-tolerant: Canary Island date palm, Phoenix canariensis; Lady palm, Rhapis excels; and Pindo palm, Butia capitata. Other moderately salt-tolerant trees are the chaste-tree, Vitex agnus-castu; Southern magnolia, Magnolia grandi-flora; and loquat, Eriobotrya japonica, which has edible fruit. Ameri-can holly, Ilex opaca, is only slightly salt-tolerant but would be OK in a sheltered location away from salt spray and wind.

Salt-tolerant shrubs include yaupon holly, Ilex vomitoria; wax myrtle, Myrica cerifera; Adam’s needle, Yucca species; and pittos-porum, Pittosporum tobira. Moderately salt-tolerant options include bottle brush, Callistemon rigidus; grape hollies, Mahonia species; In-dian hawthorn, rhaphiolepis indica; and Satsuki azalea, Rhododendron indicum. Oleander thrives at the coast, but all parts of it are highly poisonous so you might want to skip this one if you have pets or little people who like to put things in their mouths.

Some of the flowers that will do well in coastal gardens are cri-num lilies, crinum species; spider lily, Hymenocallis species; and beach sunflower, Helianthus debilis. Muhly grass, Muhlenbergia capillaris, does very well at the coast and has pink flowers in the fall.

When purchasing plants, buy from a reputable local nursery where the staff can guide you. This is especially important if you’re not sure whether the plant you’re considering can take the salt and wind of our coast. ec

http://www.drhorton.com/nwfl

flavor


magnolia grill’s oysters rockefeller


baked, fried or raw there is nothing more luscious than a sweet, gulf coast oyster. Apalachicola, the old city on the “forgotten coast” that produces fresh wild oysters — not farmed — is nearby. And that makes this region the premiere destination for all things having to do with bivalves. By SuSan BenTon | PHoToS By SHelly Swanger

Consider the OysterEmerald Coast locals and tourists alike are lovers of ice-cold oysters, and in this climate they are a savored delight. Some may even be reminded of the famed food writer M.F.K. Fisher’s book, “Consider the Oyster.” A magnificent beach read, it opens with Fisher paying tribute to the most enigmatic of foods as she writes an entertaining synopsis of the life cycle of an oyster, calling it “dreadful but exciting.”

In all actuality, Apalachicola adult oysters begin reproducing when water temperatures become greater than 68 degrees, typically occurring from May to October. As broadcast spawners, the oysters release eggs and sperm into the water column. Once fertilized, the egg develops into larva that remains free swimming for three weeks. Towards the end of this period a foot or pedi veliger develops, and the oyster settles to the bottom of the water column looking for a hard substrate. Once a hard surface like an oyster shell is located, the larva cements itself, and metamorphoses to the adult form. Florida’s Eastern oysters (Crassostrea virginica) feed mainly on single-cell plants and flourish in Florida’s estuaries, where nutrient-rich fresh water rivers meet coastal saltwater.

Getting Down to BusinessRich in history, Apalachicola began commercial harvesting of oysters in 1850, and it is a unique fact that the Union Navy allowed oyster harvesting to continue uninterrupted in Apalachicola Bay during the Civil War, even though the Federal blockade of the Southern coast was in effect.

By 1907, Apalachicola Northern Railroad ran oyster specials to Atlanta with oysters packed on ice, which paved the way for the country to enjoy these marvelous mollusks.

The Apalachicola oyster industry is currently valued at more than $10 million, accounting for 90 percent of Florida’s supply and approximately 10 percent of the nation’s supply. That is about three million pounds of oyster meat!

Like fine wine, oysters exhibit a discernable terroir, and there certainly is something to be said for eating food just steps from where it was harvested.

Apalachicola oystermen are but a few who continue to manually harvest with oyster tongs, the last place on the Gulf Coast where this is still tradition. They can be seen using the long-handled wooden sticks while out in the Apalachicola Bay; their small boats and skiffs in the estuaries where oysters are scooped from the sandy bottom beds.

is for Oysters! Oh...

aCme oyster House’s oyster rockefeller Soup


flavor

eC Magazine’s top Dozen Oyster BitesJust one cup of Apalachicola’s beautiful bivalves has 169 calories, 2 grams of fat, 10 grams of carbohydrates and packs a protein punch with 17 grams. A great source of zinc and omega-3s, oysters are not only delicious but also good for you! The flavors of oysters may vary widely, but the manners in which they are enjoyed vary equally. Gussied up, raw or stewed, here are a dozen of our favorite oyster bites along the Emerald Coast.

1) aCme oySTer HouSe in the village of baytowne wharf serves char-grilled oysters and delicious po-boys, but their soulful oyster rockefeller Soup deserves a silver spoon.

2) take in the stunning gulf view and the brisk, foamy sea air while you slurp down a dozen of the plump oysters served at THe BaCK PorCH oySTer Bar in destin. they discount their oysters during their daily happy hour from 3 to 5 p.m.

3) lJ SCHooner’S doCKSide reSTauranT in niceville serves up a delectable dish called the dockside dozen. it is topped with a special garlic, spinach and parmesan sauce. dockside also offers a different oyster special each week.

4) chef john jacob of vinTiJ wine BouTique in miramar beach serves an oyster BlT Sandwich that is so popular it has been a signature item on the menu for more than 10 years. At dinner the corn meal pan-fried oysters on spinach crostini, topped with pickled onions and lemon butter, is all the rave.

5) magnolia grill in downtown fort walton beach has many requests at lunch for its deep-fried oyster sandwich, but come dinnertime the oysters rockefeller are in demand.

6) PoPPy’S CraZy loBSTer at the ever-popular harborwalk village in destin says char-grilled are the best seller, with toppings that include cajun, greek, caribbean and coastal seasoning.

7) david biegler, owner of the HurriCane oySTer Bar in grayton beach off 30A, serves apalachicola oysters for $5 per dozen at happy hour from 3 to 6 p.m. daily. biegler says, “The around the world oysters are a big hit featuring russian, japanese, mexican and german toppings.”

8) THe BoaTHouSe oySTer Bar is one of destin’s best-kept secrets. their award winning apalachicola oysters are served raw and fried. “Baked S.o.B.” is also a favorite, with cocktail sauce, cheddar cheese, jalapeños and nacho chips.

9) the HigH Tide reSTauranT and Bar, located in fort walton beach east of brooks bridge, has seating inside and out for you to enjoy a dozen or more freshly shucked oysters. A popular spot among locals and visitors.

10) STinKy’S FiSH CamP on 30A in dune Allen beach (and also in navarre) serves “oyster’s All day All ways!” you can try Smoked Bacon, raw with Ceviche or Champagne Broiled, to name a few. Another fanciful dish is the Stinky’s Stew, full of buxom bivalves and fresh local seafood in a basil butter broth.

11) Peg leg PeTe’S oySTer Bar on pensacola beach offers waterfront dining and an oyster shooter with beer or vodka. the Crabmeat imperial oysters are topped with a crabmeat stuffing, Alfredo sauce and then are baked to a golden brown.

12) At what once was an old fish camp in the 1900s, you will now find niCK’S in FreePorT on BaSin Bayou. nick’s offers waterfront dining and cold fresh raw oysters. the juicy fried oyster sandwich with tarter sauce on a hot bun is legendary.

vintij wine Boutique’s oyster BlT Sandwich


Busting Open Oyster MythsGetting oysters fresh and keeping them cold is key. at Boss’s Oysters in apalachicola they are kept chilled from “bay to belly.” Raw oysters contaminated with Vibrio vulnificus can be life threatening, however, there are myths that encourage and discourage people on eating raw oysters. We cracked open some crusty myths to get to the true “pearls of wisdom” behind them.

Myth: Eating raw oysters are safe if you drown them in hot sauce, which kills everything.

FaCt: The active ingredients in hot sauce have no more effect on harmful bacteria than plain water. Nothing but cooking them at a high enough temperature will kill bacteria.

Myth: Avoid oysters from polluted waters and you’ll be fine.

FaCt: Bacteria thrive naturally in warm coastal areas (such as the Gulf of Mexico) where oysters live and have nothing to do with pollution.

Myth: Alcohol kills harmful bacteria.

FaCt: Alcohol may impair your good judgment, but it doesn’t destroy harmful bacteria.

Myth: An experienced oyster lover can tell a good oyster from a bad one.

FaCt: Don’t rely on your senses to determine if an oyster is safe.

Myth: Avoid raw oysters in months without the letter “R” and you’ll be safe.

FaCt: Oysters are delicious year round, and if cooked properly can even be eaten by those with compromised immune systems.

Myth: Raw oysters are an aphrodisiac and will cure a hangover.

FaCt: There is no scientific evidence that either of these commonly held beliefs is true, but we would like to think so.

Poppy's Crazy lobster’sChar-grilled oysters

http://www.shabbychicboutique.net/

http://www.twelveoaksrecovery.com


12EC_AS_HarborDocks.indd 1 6/20/12 5:02 PM

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http://camillesatcrystalbeach.com/Camilles/Home.html


a taste for ...

A Taste For … Ceviche! other than a dip in the gulf, the best way to cool off on a sultry day on the coast is

to savor the clean, crisp, refreshing flavors of ceviche. the only rule to great cevi-che, which is thought to originate from peru, is impeccably fresh fish or seafood. luckily, the emerald coast has that in abundance. raw or briefly poached seafood is marinated in the acids of citrus juice such as lime, lemon and sometimes orange, and tossed with any variation of chopped seasonal fruits and/or vegetables, such as tomatoes, mangoes, pineapple, sweet peppers, cucumbers, jalapenos or chilies, onions, garlic and fresh herbs (our favorite is cilantro). let it marinate for at least an hour. Serve it with sliced avocado and tortilla chips. pair it with a Sauvignon blanc or sparkling wine. this dish is quick, easy and keeps you out of the kitchen. there are several delicious versions to sample along the emerald coast. Stinky’s fish camp serves a shrimp ceviche, local catch bar & grille’s version is made with grouper, while fish out of water has a red snapper ceviche on its appetizer menu. que aproveche! — Zandra Wolfgram

12EC_AS_HarborDocks.indd 1 6/20/12 5:02 PM

the Keythe 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.

best of the emerald coast 2011 winner breakfast lunch dinner outdoor dining live music

inexpensivemoderately expensiveexpensive

★Bld

$$$

$$$

dining

Alys beachGeorGe’s at alys Beachamerican. 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 beachGrecian Gardens restaurantmediterranean. 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 PuBirish. 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 creaMeryice 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. $$

destinaJ’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

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

caBana caféamerican. this eatery, boasting specialty coffee and ice cream, was voted best new business in 2008. open daily 11 a.m.–2 a.m. 112 Seascape Blvd., 850-424-3574. $ B l d

callahan’s restaurant & deli ★american. voted best locally owned restaurant 2008–2011, callahan’s serves up great sandwiches, seafood specials and prime rib. mon–Sat 10 a.m.– 10 p.m. 791 Harbor Blvd., 850-837-6328. $ l d

caPt. dave’s on the Gulfseafood. enjoy delicious fresh seafood dishes. open daily 4:30 p.m. 3796 Hwy. 98, 850-837-2627. $ d

ciao Bella Pizza da GuGlielMoitalian. Authentic italian pizza, pasta, salads and more. open daily 11 a.m. 29 E. Hwy. 98, Silver Sands, 850-654-3040. $$ l d

the craB traPseafood. 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

dewey destin’s harBorside ★seafood. one of destin’s most popular restaurants serves up charm and award-winning seafood in a quaint house overlooking the scenic destin harbor. open daily 11 a.m.–8 p.m. 202 Harbor Blvd., 850-837-7525. $$ l d

dewey destin seafood restaurant & Marketseafood. 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-this-world breakfast or savory lunch — don’t forget the cinnamon raisin bread. open 24 hours. 635 E. Hwy. 98, 850-837-8824. $ B l

eMerald Grande resort Grande vista Bar and Grillseafood. 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 d

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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

Graffitiitalian. 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

GuGlieMo's ciao Bella Pizza and Pastaitalian. Authentic italian pizza, pasta, salads and more. lunch 11 a.m.–2 p.m. dinner begins at 4:30 p.m. 529 Highway 98, 850-654-9880. $$ 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

hard rock caféamerican. rock ’n’ roll, great drinks and mouthwatering menu. open daily 11 a.m. 4260 Legendary Dr., Destin Commons, 850-654-3310. $ l d

harry t’s ★seafood. lounge on the beautiful patio and watch the passing boats as you enjoy an endless variety of delicious dishes. mon–thu 11 a.m.–10 p.m. fri–Sat 11 a.m.–11 p.m. Sun 10 a.m.–10 p.m. 46 Harbor Blvd., 850-654-4800. $$ B l d

JiM ’n nick’s Bar-B-Q ★Barbecue. Southern smokehouse barbecue. beer and wine. open daily 11 a.m. 14073 Emerald Coast Pkwy., 850-351-1991. $ l d

Johnny o’QuiGley’s ★american. Award-winning steak, seafood and barbecue in one of destin’s favorite sports bars. mon–thu 11 a.m.–midnight. fri–Sun 11 a.m.–1 a.m. double happy hour mon–fri 3–6 p.m. and 10 p.m.–close. 34940 Emerald Coast Pkwy., 850-837-1015. $ 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 caféamerican. gourmet pizzas, creole and American cuisine. open daily 5–10 p.m. 404 E. Hwy. 98, 850-837-7960. $$ d

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

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

Panera Bread ★american. fresh-baked breads and pastries, sandwiches and salads. mon–thu 7 a.m.–9 p.m. fri–Sat 7 a.m.–10 p.m. Sun 7 a.m.–8 p.m. Destin Commons and Sandestin. 850-837-2486. $$ B 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

dining

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on the menu

Summer may be fading, but thank goodness the menus along the emerald coast shine on. try these tempting bites to liven up your fall season.

Appetizer BuBBa gumP SHrimP ComPany reSTauranT & marKeT, deSTinrun like forest gump to scoop up a bowl of mama Blue’S SHrimP gumBo. this version has a rich buttery brown base filled with Andouille sausage, fish and shrimp over rice and fresh scallions. life might be a box of chocolates to forest, but it’s certainly easier to deal with after a savory bowl of gumbo. $6.99.

Lunch CHeeSe Burger in ParadiSe, deSTin if you love wings like we do, you can ease your calorie conscience with this BuFFalo CHiCKen Salad. this delicious salad is packed with flavor, but won’t pack on the pounds. it is served with crispy buffalo chicken on top of a fresh salad mix of cucumbers, celery, buffalo asiago cheese, wontons and grape tomatoes tossed in blue cheese dressing. yes, this salad will take you to paradise. $9.99

Dinner BeaCH walK aT HenderSon ParK inn, deSTinonce you stop drooling over the gulf view, you can turn your attention to the mouth-watering menu. we enjoyed the PePPer CruSTed yellow Fin Tuna entrée. it features black crusted sushi-grade tuna steak, seared rare with braised baby spinach in a soy ginger sauce. life tastes better at a beachfront restaurant for sure. $29

DessertTommy BaHama’S reSTauranT & Bar, miramar BeaCH tommy bahama’s promotes its brand by saying “life is one long weekend.” one taste of the restaurant’s signature dessert and you’ll feel like life is one long tropical vacation. the PiÑa Colada CaKe is a light, moist vanilla layer cake with myers dark rum, chopped pineapple, white chocolate mousse and toasted coconut. this is what a vacation should taste like. $10

PiÑa Colada CaKe

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http://www.seagarsdestin.com


diningruth’s chris steak housesteak 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 take-out. 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

the shed BarBeQue & Blues JointBarbecue. Award-winning pecan wood-smoked barbecue in a no fuss, casual atmosphere overlooking the destin harbor. open Sun–thurs 11 a.m.–9 p.m., fri–Sat 11 a.m.–11 p.m. 100 Harbor Blvd., 850-460-2271, catering/events 251-786-0696. $$ l d

zoËs kitchen american. healthy sandwiches and salads. mon–Sat 11 a.m.–9 p.m. Sun 11 a.m.–7 p.m. Destin Commons, 850-650-6525. $ l d

fort walton beachaeGean restaurantgreek. 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

Bay caféFrench. traditional french bistro café with seating overlooking the water. lunch daily 11 a.m.–3 p.m., dinner mon–Sat, 5 p.m.–10 p.m. 233 Alconese Ave. SE. 850-244-3550. $$ l d

BenJaronG thai cuisine & BBQthai 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 Bistroamerican. 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 Pearlsteak 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

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. 99 Eglin Pkwy., 850-243-0707. l d

fudPucker’samerican. burgers, sandwiches and specialties like the fried fudpucker (triggerfish). open daily 11 a.m. 108 Santa Rosa Blvd., Okaloosa Island, 850-243-3800. $$ l d

MaGnolia Grillsteak, 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 steaMerseafood. 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’ssteak and seafood. early evening specials weekdays 5–6 p.m. happy hour weekdays 5–7 p.m. weekdays 5–10 p.m. weekends 5–11 p.m. 1226 Santa Rosa Blvd., 850-244-8669. $$$ d

Pranzo italian ristoranteitalian. 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

sealandsteak and seafood. Serving American cuisine as well as thai offerings in a

http://www.white-wilson.com

http://www.resolutemartialarts.com


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’ssteak, 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 beachanother 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’ssteak 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 restaurantseafood. dine on delicious fresh seafood while listening to live music. open daily 11 a.m.–3 p.m. and 5–10 p.m. 70 Hotz Ave., 850-231-1008. $$ l d

red Bar ★american. A favorite among locals, visitors and celebrities and a must-visit when in grayton beach. Kick back on the funky furniture and listen to live music while enjoying great food and cocktails — especially the award-winning bloody mary. breakfast 7–10:30 a.m. lunch 11 a.m.–3 p.m. dinner 5–10 p.m. bar open 11 a.m.–11 p.m., fri–Sat 11 a.m.–midnight. cash or check only, no credit cards. 70 Hotz Ave., 850-231-1008. $$ B l d

trattoria BoraGoitalian. 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 beachaeGean restaurantgreek. 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

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

Beef ‘o’ Brady’s faMily sPorts PuBamerican. wings, sandwiches, salads, burgers. 24 tvs, plus a kids’ game room. open mon–Sat 11 a.m.–11 p.m. Sun noon–10 p.m. happy hour mon–fri 3–7 p.m. 9375 E. Hwy. 98 (The Market Shops at Sandestin), 850-837-9710. $$$ B l d

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. 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

for all of life’s occasions

Santa Rosa Beach, FL • 850.502.9124 • shellyswangerphotography.com

fi ne art • events • commericalpeople, places, things

PLAYING THE BEST OF THE60’S AND 70’S - ALL THESONGS YOU LOVE

850.585.4988 | [email protected] | www.mulligansband.net

Featuring founding member Edwin Watts

We can accommodate any entertainment budget.

Offering entertainment for your special event:

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finz Beachside Grilleamerican. wide range of seafood and American dishes. catering available. open seasonally. lunch daily 11 a.m.–4 p.m. Beachside at Sandestin, 850-267-4800. $$ l

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

lillie’s on PiGs alleyBarbecue. for lip-smacking good barbecue, try lillie’s sandwiches, ribs, beef or chicken. the restaurant won the barbecue world championship in memphis in 2007. open tue–Sat 11 a.m.–7 p.m. 9848 W. Hwy. 98, 850-654-3911. $ l d

lin’s asian cuisineasian. 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 Grillsteak 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 PotFondue. 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 hoisin-glazed yellow fin tuna. lunch mon–Sat 11 a.m.–4 p.m. Sun 11 a.m.–3 p.m. dinner mon–thu 4–10 p.m. fri–Sat 4–11 p.m. Sun 3–9 p.m. Grand Boulevard Sandestin, 850-650-2484. $$ l d

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

PoPPy’s seafood factoryseafood. 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 runnersamerican. caribbean/coastal/mediterranean menu with sandwiches, seafood, steaks, chicken and pasta. open daily for lunch and dinner. Village of Baytowne Wharf, 850-267-8117. $$ l d

seaGar’s PriMe steaks and seafood ★steak and seafood. premium steak, fresh seafood and caviar. open 6 p.m. daily. hilton Sandestin. 4000 S. Sandestin Blvd., 850-622-1500. $$$ d

toMMy BahaMa’s restaurant & Bar ★ Caribbean. get a taste of the islands with jerk spices, fresh fish and the best desserts on the coast, as voted by readers of emerald coast magazine. open Sun–thu 11 a.m.–11 p.m. fri–Sat 11 a.m.–midnight. 525 Grand Blvd., 850-654-1743. $$ l d

vin’tiJ wine BoutiQue & Bistro ★american. traditional favorites and unique house dishes. open daily 11 a.m.–midnight. 10859 W. Emerald Coast Pkwy., Suite 103, 850-650-9820. $ l d

niceville/valparaiso Beef ‘o’ Brady’s faMily sPorts PuBamerican. wings, sandwiches, salads, burgers. open mon–Sat 11 a.m.–11 p.m. Sun noon–10 p.m. happy hour mon–fri 3–7 p.m. 4540 E. Hwy. 20, 850-897-3964. $ l d

dining

http://www.cantinalaredo.com


4552 US Hwy 98 W. Across from Louis-Louis 850.267.2555 vkisteakhouse.com

VKI Japanese Steakhouse & Sushi Bar

SoWal So GoodWHERE TO EAT IN SANTA ROSA BEACH“If you think all Japanese Steakhouses are the same, you’ll think differ-ently after dining with us. Unlike some other places, we use only the highest quality ingredients so that you come not just for the intriguing knives and whirling shakers, but also for the hot and freshly prepared nutritional and wholesome food.”

http://www.vkisteakhouse.com

http://www.sacredheartemerald.org


coMPass rose restaurant and BarCaribbean. 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

tradewindsitalian. 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 beach98 Bar-B-QueBarbecue. 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–thur 11 a.m.–9 p.m., fri–Sat 11 a.m.–10 p.m., Sun noon–9 p.m. 95 Laura Hamilton Blvd. in Gulfplace (CR 393 and 30A), 850-267-2202. $ l d

BasMati’s asian cuisine & sushiasian. Asian dishes and full sushi bar. open 4 p.m. daily. 3295 W. Hwy. 30A, 850-267-3028. $$ d

café tanGoamerican. 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 restaurantContinental. 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

2011

Lunch: Mon-Fri 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.Dinner: Mon-Wed 5 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., Thurs-Sat 5 p.m. to 10 p.m.

12273 Emerald Coast Pkwy.Holiday Plaza, Ste. 101, Miramar Beach, FL 32550

(850) 650-5980 | www.fatclemenzas.com

2011: Best Pizza, Best Italian & Best Chef

2010: Best Chef & Best Pizza

2009: Best Pizza 2008: Best Italian

atmospheresThe Village Door Restaurant and NightclubThe Village Door Restaurant offers bayfront, family-friendly dining with great food, great views and great prices. Some appetizers include TNT shrimp, oysters on the half shell, crab cakes and fried pickles. Entrees include grouper with crabmeat, fresh fi sh, steaks, oysters and shrimp dishes, stuffed hamburgers, grouper sandwiches and baskets all with bottomless fries.

Beautiful bayfront dining on our Sunset Deck with inside dining too. Featuring live music, be sure to stay and enjoy our famous nightclub as the party gets started. We’re celebrating 10 years at The Village of Baytowne Wharf, Sandestin.

Carry-out available: Call 850-702-FREE (3733). Catering available for corporate and private events, contact Todd Roberts at [email protected].

A D V E R T O R I A L

John Wehner’s Village Door Bayfront Restaurant and NightclubLocated in The Village of Baytowne Wharf at Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort

www.thevillagedoor.com

dining

http://www.thevillagedoor.com

http://www.fatclemenzas.com


Dedicated to bringing you a delicious experience! Italian cuisine with a family-friendly atmosphere - we offer wings, salads,

panini, and gourmet pizzas topped with the freshest ingredients. We happily host or cater any event or private party. Join us on our covered balcony

(across from Ed Walline Park in Gulf Place) for our happy hour Mon-Fri 4-7 and FOOTBALL SPECIALS on weekends!

Located at Gulfplace Intersection of CR 393 and Hwy 30ASanta Rosa Beach, FL • (850) 267-2202 • amore-pizzeria.com

vki JaPanese steak house & sushi Barasian. using the freshest ingredients this japanese gem serves up tasty habachi-style stir-fry meals of steak, seafood and chicken prepared at your table as well as artfully prepared sashimi and sushi rolls. open daily. lunch 11 a.m.–3 p.m. dinner 4:30–9:30 p.m. 4552 Highway 98, Santa Rosa Beach, 850-267-2555. $$ l d

vue on 30aamerican. 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 beach723 whiskey Bravoamerican. 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 & Pastaitalian. 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 restaurantamerican. 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

café thirty-aseafood. Seafood, lamb, duck, filet mignon and pizza. open daily 5 p.m. 3899 E. Hwy. 30A, 850-231-2166. $$ d

crushamerican. 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 cafésouthern. 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 Botanatapas. 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 & Barmexican. 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 Barseafood. 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 cafésteak 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

http://www.amore-pizzeria.com

http://www.magnoliagrillfwb.com


the last word

‘Great’ life lessons By KaTie JoHnSon

my family is lucky to have five generations currently living. The matriarch, Opal Lela New, my great-grandmother, celebrated her one-hundredth birthday this past year on November 10, with her family by her side. Traditional so-

cieties revere and respect their elders as the wise keepers of knowledge passed down through generations. My great-grandmother’s birthday reminds me of the many lessons we can learn from the older generation and how important family connections are.

Be thankful. My great-grandmother was born in 1911 in Stillwell, Okla. In her lifetime she saw 17 presidents, two world wars and survived the Great Depression. As a girl, she traveled by covered wagon, rode a horse to her first date, washed clothes by hand and scrubbed wooden floors on hand and knee. Growing up she didn’t have the modern luxu-ries we all take for granted, but in her own words, “Our parents had love, we all shared and we were happy.” In our society it is easy to mix up want versus need, and her early life is a pleasant reminder that the daily luxuries we take for granted are just that, luxuries. The real important things in life are family, health and love. embrace a Healthy lifestyle. At 98-years-old my great-grand-mother danced at my wedding. Her health and vitality can be attributed to a lifestyle that I strive to mirror in my own life. She raised her own livestock and had fresh eggs, milk, butter and plenty of fresh vegetables. She also walked laps around her house into her 90s for daily exercise. Combine this natural diet with her active lifestyle, and you have a sim-ple approach to longevity. Give Back. Upon retiring after 26 years of teaching she decided she wanted to do something for others and began volunteering at a nurs-ing home once a week for the following 19 years. Of the experience she says: “It was the most rewarding work. I hope I have planted a seed of kindness and when that time comes for me, I will be blessed with others’ good deeds.” Connect With Family. My great-grandmother lived alone for more than 20 years after my great-grandfather died, and having a strong bond with family kept her mind active and her heart full. She learned how to email as it became more popular, and she loved waking up early each day to check her inbox. Modern technologies such as Skype, cell phones and Facebook make it easier than ever to connect with loved ones near and far. As five generations of my family gathered, from eight different states, to celebrate my great-grandmother’s 100th birthday it made me appreciate the importance of strong family ties. I am truly blessed to be a part of a family that prioritizes and celebrates one another. Commemorate your History. In our lives now we are so separated and can easily forget how important the connection is to our past. As my great-grandmother’s own memory fades I am grateful her grandsons took the time to document her story so we would know all about her life and the history of our family. We wouldn’t be where we are today if not for the honest hard work of generations past.

A little bit of her lives on in all of her descendants, and that is truly something to celebrate! ec

opal lela new celebrates her "sweet 16" birthday in 1927 at her family home in

Weleetka, oklahoma.

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HAIR EXTENSIONS • SPECIAL OCCASION HAIR

BRAZILIAN BLOWOUT • COLOR CORRECTION • AIRBRUSH MAKEUPXTREME LASHES • FACIALS

Toni&Guy trained Stylists • Specialized Wilma Schumann facials & products

Be Who You Are

Harbor Boulevard, Suite 9 • www.blissindestin.com • (850) 424-5444

http://www.facebook.com/DestinBlissSalon

Located immediately next door to the Donut Hole in Destin

12EC_AS_BlissSalon.indd 1 6/25/12 9:16 AM

http://www.facebook.com/DestinBlissSalon


12EC_AS_CentennialBank.indd 1 6/28/12 3:03 PM

http://www.my100bank.com

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