Emerald Coast Magazine August/September 2011

$3.95 AUG-SEP 2011

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

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

TALK DERBY TO ME The Beach Brawl SK8R Dolls who roll with the punches

THE KINGS OF CULTUREThis 'Indie' couple is not what you might expect

VOLUNTEERISM Remembering 9/11 and those who 'do' their duty

The heart of the Emerald Coast beats strong with a vibrant arts scene

THE ARTS ARE ALIVE

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A word with You08 From the Publisher10 editor’s note12 Contributors13 Feedback74 the last word

in the e.c.15 Snapshot Krys-tina Scott

fills the shoes of a winner.

16 What’s Haute the dog days of summer can be cool with these feisty finds.

18 Personality Cynthia moreno talks derby to us.

20 Giving Back honoring emerald Coast heroes who serve every day — volunteers.

24 Well Worded gileah taylor is a singer to write home about.

27 Scene who? what? when did that happen?

happenings29 Spotlight we fall for a Destin

home tour with a bigg twist.

30 Culture the “indie” home that Kings built.

36 Calendar Fall on the emerald Coast is festive-ful.

40 Social Studies Find out who was on the scene in a flash.

the good life63 Eudaimonia this senior is

happy her social life has gone to the dogs.

64 In Motion Say “hula” to these new fitness trends.

66 F.Y.I. the experts take a shot at the pros and cons of immunizations.

68 Dining the best food on the emerald Coast is right here.

72 A Taste For it’s on! tasty tailgate party trends.

24 30 72

F E At u r E S to rY

46 Spotlight, Please! Lights, music, action ... and a lot of drama. Here are the highlights of the 2011–2012 arts season. BY ZAndrA wolFgrAm

Santa Rosa Beach-based Dread Clampitt

celebrates 10 years of performing funky bluegrass fusion on

the Emerald Coast in September.

the Emerald Coast magazineaugust + september 2011

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


11EC_AS_ClarkPartington.indd 1 7/8/11 10:28:08 AM


PublishEr brian e. rowland Editor Zandra wolfgramassoCiatE Editor wendy o. DixondEsignErs lawrence Davidson, beth nabi staFF PhotograPhEr Scott holsteinstaFF WritEr Jason DehartContributing WritErs lorraine Christen, wendy o. Dixon, Jennifer howard, linda Kleindienst, Andi mahoney, Ann mcqueen, thomas J. monigan, Zandra wolfgramContributing PhotograPhErs hbb Photography, howard robinson, Shelly Swanger, Jacqueline wardtraFFiC Coordinator lisa SostresalEs ExECutivEs rhonda Simmons, Chris St. JohnEmEraldCoastmagazinE.Com FaCEbook: EmEraldCoast, tWittEr: EmEraldCoastmag

vol. 12, no. 4 august–sEPtEmbEr 2011

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 2011 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 tim FordyceCrEativE dirECtor lawrence DavidsonProduCtion dirECtor melinda lanigan dirECtor oF Editorial sErviCEs linda KleindienstmanagEr oF FinanCE and hr Angela CundiffmanagEr oF intEgratEd salEs Dan Parisiadministrator oF salEs and EvEnts mcKenzie burleighCliEnt sErviCE rEPrEsEntativE Caroline Conwayassistant CrEativE dirECtor Saige robertssEnior Editorial dEsignEr beth nabi graPhiC dEsignErs marc l. thomas, Daniel Vitter, Jennifer ekrutmagazinE ad buildEr Patrick PattersonnEtWork administrator Daniel VitterrECEPtionist Amy lewisroWlandPublishing.Com, FaCEbook.Com/rPiCrEativE

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Having a ‘Caddyshack’ SummerThe 1980 major motion picture “Caddyshack,” starring Bill Murray and Rodney Dangerfield, has earned its place as an all-time classic comedy. Over the past couple weeks, I have been polling people and it seems like all of them have seen it at least once. If you haven’t, and you have just a semblance of a sense of humor, then please find and watch it so you can enjoy two hours of side-splitting laughter. Rodney is a wise-guy golfer whose series of one liners and overall respect for no one or nothing will keep you rolling from one situation to the next.

One of the film’s main storylines is about a groundskeeper’s (Bill Murray) quest to find — and eliminate — a gopher that is wreaking havoc on the golf course.

My nemeses are three armadillos that set up shop on the grounds of Rowland Publishing this spring. My first encounter with them came one afternoon in early May when the trio of teenagers were rooting around in our parking lot landscaping. They seemed oblivious to my staffers, who were taking pictures and commenting on their cuteness and blind focus on the search for nourishment of ground grubs and insects, which are their main staple of food.

We all thought they were cute, harmless creatures that gave our corporate property a slice of natural appeal. They would appear most every afternoon and became a playful source of entertainment for everyone.

Then, the dark side of this encounter began to rear its ugly face. I was in the lobby one day as a customer was leaving the building. Moments after the door closed, I heard a bone-chilling scream. I hurried outside to see her running to her car as an armadillo casually walked around on the sidewalk after she left, oblivious to this woman’s panicked flight from our offices.

At this point, I realized I had a problem and needed to get it solved to avoid future meltdowns or, worse yet, someone who might be injured by the “diller” or themselves while running for dear life.

Doing research, I quickly learned the following: They are very difficult to trap because there are no baits that will work. They are nocturnal … although this trio apparently did not get the memo on that. They have sharp claws, which means you have to be very careful trying to capture one by hand. And, last but not least, they stink real, real, real bad.

I asked many “outdoor” friends and all agreed a shotgun was the best option. That’s good if you live in the county, but I am within city limits and discharging a firearm would put me, rather than them, behind bars.

The best way to capture them is to quietly sneak up behind them and grab their tail to haul them up off the ground, then place them in a cage and transport them far away from the nesting area.

Much easier said than done. They have excellent hearing. Every time I tried to sneak up behind them, they would transform from slow movers to greyhounds and hightail it to the empty lot next door, laughing at this publisher in active pursuit.

So, over the next weekend I returned with a crab net and made a capture — which, moments later, they tore to shreds with their razor-sharp claws and escaped again. I think I saw a smile of defiance on their pointy snouts.

Two months have passed, they are doubled in size and have become my version of the Taliban, entrenched within my beautiful, natural ecosystem. I made a few calls to see if I could engage the SEAL team that got Osama bin Laden could chopper in, but they were unavailable.

Then our staff photographer and woodsman, Scott Holstein, came to the rescue. Check out the web page wn.com/ldavidson02 to see him demonstrate the fine art of “diller” capture. One down. Two to go. I am determined to be part of the exclusive “Diller Dundee” club. Stay tuned … update next issue.

— Brian rowland [email protected]

on the covergrammy award winner terrance Simien & the Zydeco experience added even more color to the 2011 Artsquest Fine Arts Festival at the Seaside Amphithe-ater Stage. Photo by Shelly Swanger.

Photo by Scott Holstein

from the publisher

Vol. 12 N

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$3.95 AUG-SEP 2011

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

TALK DERBY TO ME The Beach Brawl SK8R Dolls who roll with the punches

THE KINGS OF CULTUREThis 'Indie' couple is not what you might expect

VOLUNTEERISM Remembering 9/11 and those who 'do' their duty

The heart of the Emerald Coast beats strong with a vibrant arts scene

THE ARTS ARE ALIVE


11EC_AS_Publix.indd 1 6/15/11 12:01:39 PM


editor’s picksShoo Shoo dog Flui double-dog dare you to come up with something more meaningful for your furry friend. Alaqua Animal refuge in Freeport received a grant from the Petfinder.com Foundation for building Community immunity, which seeks to protect all at-risk against canine influ-enza virus, a highly conta-gious disease that spreads easily from dog to dog.

Ship Shape take your crew out for a day on the water. my family recently celebrated a birthday on a pontoon through the Destin Vacation boat rentals. the service was excel-lent and the launch location at the marbella yacht Club was convenient. Did you know this marina was award-ed a Clean marina flag by the state of Florida Department of environmental Protection? to receive this designa-tion, facilities must implement a set of environmental best practices de-signed to protect Florida’s waterways and ensure emergency preparedness. what a ship-shape operation.

walk thiS way have you been to Fort walton beach lately? the downtown merchants association is reinventing downtown Fort walton beach into an arts and entertainment district. Stroll the historic corridor of shops and eateries during an “open house” called the Art walk that features wine tastings, live music and festive fare each third Friday through the fall, beginning at 5:30 p.m.

the eyeS have itour eyes are welling up over the fact that in just 30 minutes we can unleash an amazing new look with eyelash extensions at bella Day Spa & hair Salon. the tab version lasts a couple of weeks, while the naturalash version lasts a few months. Ah, what we do to look like a natural beauty. wink, wink.

A Debt of Gratitude“Be grateful and your life will be abundant.” This is an adage I remind myself of from time to time. Some folks keep an Abundance Journal, others voice what they are thankful for before a family dinner. However you keep stock of your blessings, the fact is, those of us who live in the United States are quite fortunate.

As fall approaches, we near the 10th anniversary of the terrible events of 9/11. That sobering day was one of sacrifice for thousands of Americans who were innocent victims. Many lost their lives simply because they showed up at the office for work. Others gave their lives in an effort to save their unsuspecting friends and neighbors from the most horrific terrorist act committed on American soil. That day, they all became American heroes we will never forget.

Our Giving Back story reflects on what it means to us to have a National Day of Service on Sept. 11. It takes a look at volunteerism along the Emerald Coast. There are so many amazing charities in our area which provide our community much needed services, support and help, but they are not viable without the daily dedication of thousands of Emerald Coasters who commit countless hours of their personal time making sure they survive, if not thrive. These locals understand what it means to give back, to have a sense of duty. They personify what it means to live American values.

These very people are why the Emerald Coast has a strong sense of Quality of Place. This is a phrase I learned recently from Marcia Hull of the Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation. Ms. Hull (“The Arts are Alive” feature), who also has a strong sense of community pride and duty, has made it her personal mission to raise awareness of the arts in our community. She is passionate about the idea that the arts are integral to any destination of quality.

This sense of duty, drive and generosity is a common quality in those who call the Emerald Coast home. It is why 21-year-old entrepreneur Krys-Tina Scott, featured in Snapshot, won a scholarship to open a business. Her community is based on American values and chooses to reward those who celebrate and demonstrate an indomitable American spirit.

I deeply appreciate that we have established a National Day of Service. But it doesn’t appear the Emerald Coast needed any urging. To feel patriotic, to have a sense of duty, to be a hero — we need only look within.

This fall in particular, we honor all of the Americans who lost their lives at the hands of terrorists or while serving our country. And we warmly welcome the Army’s 7th Special Forces Group to the Emerald Coast. We are grateful for your sacrifice and courage; our lives are abundant because of you.

— Zandra wolFgram [email protected]

Photo by Allison Yii

editor’s note

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Shelly Swanger Ph oto g r a Ph e rborn and raised in memphis tennessee, Shelly Swanger has been living Santa rosa beach since 2002. A graduate of northwest Florida College, she started Shelly Swanger Photography in 2008. Specializing in concerts, events and commercial photography, her work takes her all over the Southeast and beyond. when not working she loves running, music and a good road trip.

▪ Shelly hooped up excitement with her fun hula shot for In Motion.

contributors

Hannah Brown Ph oto g r a Ph e roriginally from Spain, hannah brown has worked as a photographer in the Florida Panhandle area for more than 10 years. together with her husband, Shawn, they make up the team of hbb Photography. when not behind a camera or computer, hannah enjoys traveling, being a major foodie, riding her horse, and reading.

▪ Hannah captured the creative spirit of Tom and Jenny King for Culture and made Gileah Taylor’s story in Well Worded really sing.

Andi Mahoney w r i t e rAndi mahoney graduated with a journalism degree from the university of georgia and has worked in marketing and public relations for the past seven years. in addition to writing, she enjoys being active, reading and flying with her husband, ryan.

▪ Andi’s informative health story is anything but a “shot” in the dark.

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I just had a customer come in and say the article (“First Class Second Hand,” June/July 2011) was terrific. I absolutely think you did a bang up job. It is terrific and I can’t thank you enough for including [The Closet Swap] in your vision!

tara weSley owner, the CloSet SwAmP

i have to say of all the coverage the company has ever gotten, that spread (“the good life” April/may 2011) was the best and most beautiful. your magazine is truly at the highest level across the board.

grant landiS AmiCuS PubliC relAtionS

my favorite issue [June/July 2011] to date. i read from cover to cover

and was impressed with both the edito-rial and the design. i have been raving about it to everyone. this is the first local magazine i have actually wanted to read from cover to cover, and with this issue i did just that! Congratulations, EC!

reBecca Sullivan Point wAShington

feedback

Clarification this photo of the band heritage that ran on page 40 of the June/July issue of EC magazine was taken by amy Quarrier. you can see more of Amy’s work at ellementsstudios.com.

you have done such an amazing job in just a short amount of time with EC. i love the new graphic layout!

Sarah BraZwell SAntA roSA beACh

i love the [June/July] EC issue. the content is interesting, fun and visual. i actually see an improvement in the mag. way to go!

Stacey Brady DeStin

it’s not often that a writer likes what is written about herself. And i’m pretty darn particular on that front. that said, Zandra wolfgram wrote a wonderful article about me and “30A Style.”

the photography was perfect too. Kansas Pitts was a real pro.

Keep up the good work. it’s so encourag-ing to see your magazines not only surviving, but thriving in this economic climate.

thanks again for such a thoughtful and well-written article.

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thank you so much for featuring emerald Coast Autism Center in EC magazine. we are thrilled to have the chance to reach more families in our community. with so many families affected, we appreciate your willing-ness to bring autism into the headlines.

heidi BlalcockCo-FounDer, emerAlD CoASt AutiSm Center

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snapshot

Krys-Tina Scott, ‘sole’ful winnerMeet Krys-Tina Scott, proud proprietor of Acquired Sole — an urban-themed clothing and sneaker retail specialty shop in Fort Walton Beach — and winner of the 850 Business Magazine’s 2010 College Entrepreneur Invitational.

“I’ve always wanted to have a business … and I’ve always loved sneakers,” said Scott, a 21-year-old Northwest Florida State College sophomore whose major is business administration. Her business mission statement? Feeding the sneaker connoisseur’s obsession.

Scott was one of more than two dozen undergraduates from Northwest Florida’s public colleges and universities to enter the contest. “I have been working on my business plan for two years. When I saw the contest on my school’s website, I had to enter. This would

give me a chance to share my idea with judges and possibly a potential investor. I was speechless when I won,” said Scott, who won a $5,000 prize and the opportunity to pitch her business plan to potential investors. “Although I have won, that isn’t the end, it’s just the beginning of my journey. As Andy Warhol said, ‘Good business is the best kind of art.’” — Linda Kleindienst

PeoPle + Style + HyPein the e.c.

Photo by Scott Holstein


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THE BALLOTS ARE IN!The 2011

Best of the Emerald Coast Awards Ceremony

October 15th | 6–9:30pmBrought to you by Emerald Coast Magazine

to benefi t the Junior League of the Emerald Coast.The 2011 winners will be on display at Grand Boulevard

The public is invited to an evening of food, fun, fashion, and entertainment — inclucing food, beer, wine and drinks from the winning restaurants.

2011

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By day, she’s a reliable employee, working for a govern-ment contractor in engineering. She’s a full-time stu-dent at the University of West Florida, working toward a bachelor’s

degree in psychology. After four years of ac-tive duty in the U.S. Air Force, including six months in Iraq, she now serves in the Air Force Reserves. She owns three dogs and a cat. She’s a daughter. She’s a friend.

She’s also “Imp Priss,” captain of the Beach Brawl SK8R Dolls, Fort Walton Beach’s women’s flat track roller derby team. The Na-varre resident, also known as Cyn-thia Moreno, says the “Imp Priss” name is a good fit.

“My friends always say I remind them of an imp,” which she defines as “a small, demonic fairy-like crea-ture that does really awful things.”

When Moreno first saw roller derby on an episode of the Arts and Entertainment Television se-ries “RollerGirls,” she was hooked.

“I fell in love. I said, ‘I have to do this,’” she said. When the op-portunity arose to attend an intro-ductory meeting locally, she seized it, and in 2008, she co-founded the SK8R Dolls.

Derby girls always use descrip-tive monikers on the track.

At 5-feet 2-inches, this soft-spo-ken and reserved young lady may not seem intimidating, but when she laces her quads and takes to the track, she becomes a force to be reckoned with. A fast and ag-ile jammer, she dodges a barrage of hips and shoulders by darting around, under and in between her opponents with only one thing in mind — scoring. As a blocker, she’s competent and smart with her size. She pours her heart into her

own performance, as well as into leading her team to victory. She values sportsmanship above all. She wins with her brain.

“I love the athleticism, the ca-maraderie and the growth, not just as an individual, but also as a team, as a league and as a sport,” she said.

Bouts, or games, are fast paced, high scoring and very physical. Unlike the sports entertainment

shows popular in the 1960s and 1970s, which Moreno calls “our mothers’ roller derby,” contem-porary derby is legitimate.

“Before the derby revolution, it was staged, like the old wrestling,” she explained.

It is played on one of two types of tracks. The banked track, a leftover from old-school roller derby, is still used today in some leagues, but it is expensive to build and house. The flat track, which can be played anywhere on any surface with boundary lines marked in tape, emerged as a less expensive and more accessible option.

The sport is governed by the Women’s Flat Track Roller Derby Association. Member teams are eligible for national rankings and can offer direction to the sport’s future. Moreno is working toward earning membership for the SK8R Dolls. Ultimately, she hopes to see flat track derby become an Olym-pic sport.

There’s nothing staged about the broken wrists, elbows and collarbones that are common, along with damaged ligaments, rotator cuffs and separated shoulders.

“You train to protect yourself,” she said. “It’s like football. Not everybody gets hurt.”

The disappointment isn’t staged, either. Like every serious athlete, the emotional pain is worse than the physical, Moreno said.

After graduating from high school in Riverdale, Ga., she moved here in 2004 when she was stationed at Hurlburt Field as a helicopter mechanic. She’s not sure what her future holds once she graduates from college, but one thing is certain. She will continue to bout, jam and block her way to the front of the pack with enviable focus and admirable sense of fair play. ec

Hell on WheelsCynthia Moreno is queen of the Beach Brawl SK8R Dolls By Ann McQueen

personality

Photo by Shelly Swanger

talK Derby to meA derby lingo primer:

bout: A roller derby match consisting of two 30-minute halves. The term is borrowed from boxing, since derby matches are fights to the end.

blocker: Positional players who form the pack to block the jammer from scoring points.

Jam: Two-minute races or plays between teams to score points.

Jammer: The point scorer. The jammer wears a star on her helmet.

lap: A complete pass through the pack.

pack: The largest group of blockers skating in proximity (within 10 feet). Members of both teams can form a pack.

runt: The newest, least experienced or weakest opposing skater.

suicide seats: Floor seats closest to the track. They are considered the best seats for up-close action. Most leagues set a minimum age requirement for safety reasons.

Quads: Four-wheel speed- style skate boots.


Cynthia moreno is the fearless captain of the first-ever women’s flat track derby league on the Emerald Coast. now in its third year, the Beach Brawl sK8r dolls, describe themselves as a charitable organization “dedicated to the empowerment of women and the protection of children.”


A Sense of Duty Volunteerism flourishes on the Emerald Coast By tHoMAS J. MonigAn

A utumn is often a time of reflec-tion, and this September brings with it the 10th anniversary of what America has come to

know simply as 9/11. On that fateful morn-ing, terrorist attacks on New York City and Washington, D.C., claimed thousands of innocent victims. Among them were heroes who gave their lives simply trying to help others in the most extreme circumstances.

Our Giving Back story reflects on what it means to us to have a designated Nation-al Day of Service on Sept. 11. We look at local volunteer efforts provided by people and organizations that don’t count the cost in terms of time or effort. These local he-roes don’t seek recognition. They simply do what needs to be done so that the com-munity at large can continue to improve, every single day.

About 62.8 million people across Amer-ica volunteered their time at least once between September 2009 and September 2010, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. That works out to 26.3 percent of the country’s overall population.

According to a study by the Corporation for National and Community Service, 22.3 percent of Florida’s population volunteered in 2009. In West Florida, the numbers rise. Here, 27.8 percent rolled up their sleeves as volunteers, which equates to 2.1 billion hours of service.

So just how much difference can one person make when it comes to giving time and energy to the community at large? Plenty. And that positive impact gets mul-tiplied countless times when individuals team up for collective efforts. Here is a closer look at the efforts of one volunteer and one charity that make a difference on the Emerald Coast:

tom riceThis compact dynamo didn’t even consider slowing down when he retired from the U.S. Army as a first sergeant. Instead, he opened the Magnolia Grill just down from The Landing on Brooks Street in Fort Walton Beach. For the past 15-plus years, he’s been the man in charge at the combi-nation eatery and museum.

giving back


And as anyone who’s ever attempted it knows, you don’t count the hours or the ef-fort when it comes to running your own business. But Rice, who turned 63 this spring, has been involved in the commu-nity since he was a teenager. And he’s not about to slow down now.

“I guess a lot of the volunteering started when I was a high schooler and helping with the Kiwanis Spaghetti Dinner,” he re-called recently. “Jim Starkey was involved with it, and my best friend was his son Stu Starkey, and I ended up marrying his sis-ter, Peggy.

“And there was a long tradition of mem-bers on both sides of the family for vol-unteer work,” he added. “What I learned from them is that time is short, and you need to make time for things that are im-portant.”

Rice volunteers with at least 10 non-profits, the most visible being Fisher House of the Emerald Coast and the Em-erald Coast Honor Flight. Rice is quick to mention that he doesn’t accomplish all this by himself; he gets plenty of support from his wife, Peggy, and their daughter, Meghan Rice Gordon.

“When we’re tired at the end of an Honor Flight, or a pancake breakfast fund-raiser or a board meeting for Fisher House, it gives us a great amount of joy to realize we’re doing what we were put on earth to do,” Rice said.

Destin cHarity wine auction FounDationIn just six years, this event has raised more than $5 million for local charities, according to Todd Vucovich, executive director of the Destin Charity Wine Auction Foundation (DCWAF). This year’s total is expected to reach about $1.4 million, and that money will be distributed among the following:

According to a study by the Corporation for National and Community Service, 22.3 percent of Florida’s population volunteered in 2009.


Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwest Florida; Children in Crisis; Children’s Volunteer Health Network, Inc.; Eleanor J. Johnson Youth Ranch; Emerald Coast Autism Center; Emerald Coast Children’s Advocacy Center; Horizons; Pathways for Change; Sacred Heart Hospital on the Em-erald Coast; Shelter House; Youth Village.

“One of the things that we do that’s maybe a little different is that we’re a char-ity for charities,” Vucovich said.

DCWAF is successful at leveraging both its volunteers and chosen charities. Vucovich explains that the foundation combines its “know-how with food and wine connections” and the support of its 24-member board and the broad base of volunteers from its beneficiary charities to form a charity powerhouse. “The charities provide additional manpower needed, so DCWAF can execute its large-scale events. We look at it as a partnership,” he said.

In addition to offering exceptional wine and elaborate wine trips at its annual auc-tion, the DCWAF also brings in celebrity chefs and wine makers to conduct dinner parties in private homes, something that has become quite popular with their sup-portive donors.

“What we’ve been able to do is use the things in their lifestyle that attract them,” Vucovich said, “and also to expose them to community needs. The charities are the ones on the front line, and they’re out there making an impact in the community.” ec

giving back

BBB helps ensure “wise giving”Perhaps the best way to check out a charitable organization is through the Better Business Bureau (BBB) of Northwest Florida (nwfl.bbb.org). The BBB’s Wise Giving Alliance has a list of about 180 non-profits in its database that covers 14 counties.

“We have 20 standards overall that are covered in four main categories,” said Karen Szulczewski of the BBB’s regional office in Pensacola. “And our data base is entirely request driven.”

The four areas of accountability are:+ How the organization is governed+ Ways in which the money is spent+ Truthfulness of their representations + Willingness to disclose basic

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gileah taylor has written and recorded 10 new songs that make up her new double album, “What Kind of Fool/a Crooked line.” Her growing family and home in destin serve as primary muses for her melodic, reflective lyrics.

Holding hands with her hus-band, Chris, Gileah Taylor awaited their turn to take the microphone. The couple

was performing for friends at a house party. As they began to sing, Gileah at the piano and Chris with his gui-tar, the audience fell silent, captivated by their love song. The melody was simple, like a hymn, and the lyrics ro-mantic. The energy was potent.

Their song exemplifies singer/songwriter Gileah Taylor’s journey of faith, family and music.

She was born in Fort Walton Beach into a family strongly tied to music. Her father, Bill Cain, a preacher at Sovereign Grace Church of Valparaiso and teacher at Rocky Bayou Christian School, was a songwriter and musi-cian. It’s no wonder that as a child, she wrote Christian-themed songs to the simple chords of a hymn.

As a teenager, the whirlwind of adolescence gripped her — notions of romance, rebellion and spiritual questions. She fell in love with clas-sic literature.

“Louisa May Alcott, Flannery O’Connor, Jane Austen, Thomas Hardy. I read all of it. I’d steal a feel-ing I was reading about and write a song,” she said.

She began listening to bands like 10,000 Maniacs, The Cranberries and The Innocence Mission. She formed her own band. In 2000, she recorded her first CD, “Songs for Late at Night.”

After she married in 2003, she con-tinued to pursue her music indepen-dently, though she and her husband remained closely involved in each other’s art. In 2005, he produced her album “The Golden Planes.”

Her musical journey began to change course in February 2006 upon the arrival of her first child, Clara.

“When you have kids, everything changes. I realized this is the kind of love God has for me, and I put all of me into His hands,” she said.

Gileah Taylor is inspired by faith, family and love By Ann McQueen


The experience fills the songs on her next record “Gileah and The Ghost Train,” released in 2007. It culminates with the tenth track, titled “The Spir-it,” which Taylor calls her “conversion song.” Lyrically, the CD reflects her journey in sanctification, while sty-listically it remains youthful and con-temporary but hymn-like, with clear alternative influences.

In the years that followed, she con-tinued to write songs from her per-spective as homemaker/artist. They appear on two EPs, “What Kind of Fool” and “A Crooked Line,” released in 2010. However, her musical aspira-tions had changed shape.

Her husband had been signed to a Christian sub-label of EMI Records and left for a concert tour in 2008. Shortly thereafter, Taylor learned she was pregnant with their second daughter. When Mercie, arrived ear-ly, he returned permanently.

Singing a Life of Love

“We learned that our family is our priority. We don’t ever want to be apart,” Gileah Taylor said.

Today, when her husband isn’t working at his family’s business, Ocean Reef Resorts, and Taylor isn’t busy home schooling Clara and Mer-cie, they write songs together. While the resulting sound remains true to Taylor’s signature style, it takes on a wholeness unique to a heaven-sent romance.

“Marriage and having kids takes you out of yourself. That’s what I like about it,” she said.

Their third child is due in Septem-ber. Though her appearance with her husband at her friends’ party in May was the last for a while, it was a fam-ily tradition.

“I always perform when I’m preg-nant. It’s something I like to say we did together. Who knows? Maybe we’ll start a family band,” she said. ec

All my life I’ve been looking for the truth Sang the sweet old hymns but still a skeptic in the pew Then you called my name from beyond time I gave to you all that was mine And the spirit came down like a dove

Excerpt from “The Spirit” on the Album “Gileah and The Ghost Train,” by Gileah Taylor. Her music is available at Central Square records in Seaside and on iTunes. Updates and future shows will be posted on gileahtaylor.net and gileah.com.


scene

congratulations & KuDos …

▪ lee glaser is the new inte-grated marketing associate for the emerald coast convention & Visitors Bureau.

▪ Kay Phelan, Marcia Hull and Valeria lento were each honored as a Communicator of the Year by the northwest Florida coast chapter of the Florida Public Relations Association (FPrA) for 2011. tracy louthain, with the South Walton tourist Develop-ment council, won several acco-lades, including the coveted FPrA Grand All Image Award.

▪ Alys Beach welcomes Kerri Price as market-ing coordinator.

▪ Hard Rock café celebrates its 40th an-niversary, while Bud & Alley’s in Seaside marks 25 years as the best place to watch the sun set.

▪ the city of Destin has been named in the Top 25 U.S. Destina-tions by Travelers’ Choice 2011 on tripadvisor.com and one of the “10 Best Places to Live & Boat” by Boat-ing Magazine.

▪ Three members of the Fort Wal-ton Beach Medical center were recently awarded the Frist Humani-tarian Award, the highest honor an employee, physician and volunteer can receive from HCA, the medical center’s parent company. This year’s honors go to Jeanine Robinson, a respiratory therapist; Dr. Joseph Siefker, an EnT physician and surgeon; and carol Koch, an active member of the hospital auxiliary.

▪ neely Butler and tara Paulin open teeley’s retail boutique in Seacrest.

▪ tammy’s tours in Fort Walton Beach is taking 25 locals to Fashion Week, Sept. 9–12. The $999 round-trip excursion from Pensacola in-cludes the option to add on Fashion Week events, Broadway shows, “Sex and the City” tours and more.

▪ the Shed BBQ & Blues Joint smoked the competition at the national BBQ Association’s 2011 Convention held in Greenville, S.C. The Shed brought home 18 awards. They are most proud of the one they received for their Shed Spred Sweet Southern Sauce, which took first place among a field of 240 en-tries. They also won first place gold for founder Brad Orrison’s invention of the roboHog, a stand that allows a hog to be smoked in a standing position, which makes for a beauti-ful presentation.

▪ SunQuest cruises was recently selected as a Best of Wedding recep-tion Venue for north Florida in 2010 by theknot.com. This is the second consecutive year that SunQuest Cruises has received this honor.

new news …

▪ Sandestin golf and Beach Re-sort has added yet another attrac-tion to its Adventure Zone. Standing 40 feet tall is the Climbing Tower, which allows two people to climb at the same time.

▪ the Sacred Heart cancer center broke ground in April on a new building at Mack Bayou Center in Santa rosa Beach that will house outpatient treatment services and offices for cancer specialists. The expanded center will provide more than double the space of existing of-fices on the campus of Sacred Heart

Hospital on the Emerald Coast. The cancer center will occupy the first floor of the new building, expected to open in early 2012.

▪ Howard group, a real estate development company specializing in premier commercial, hospital-ity and residential developments, has announced an agreement with charter capital to expand within Grand Boulevard at Sandestin. A private wealth management company with more than 50 years of combined experience, Charter Capital plans to serve its clientele and expand its services in a new 2,500-square-foot office.

▪ With more than 50 years of real estate law and title insurance expe-rience, conerly, Bowman & Dykes, llP, voted Best Law Firm by EC magazine readers in 2010, is proud to announce the opening of Attor-neys’ Title at regatta Commons.

new names …

▪ Emerald Coast AdFed is changing its name to AAF emerald coast. Along with the rebrand are plans for a new Facebook page, sponsorship opportunities, after-hour events, a revamped website and a redesigned enewsletter.

▪ The Beaches of South Walton Tourist Development Council is shifting to a new moniker: South Walton tourist Development council. ec

Conerly, Bowman & dykes, llP

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

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www.cartercpa.net | 850-650-0125543 Harbor Blvd., Suite 201, Destin, FL 32541

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happeningsEvEnts + CulturE + CausEs

Photo by Howard Robinson

spotlight

2nd Annual Destin Festival Artist Home Tour According to the Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation, home is where the “art” is. On Sept. 24 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. the foundation will host a home tour event with a creative twist — artwork. A select group of private homes along the Emerald Coast will showcase the artwork created by premier artists who will be exhibiting at the 16th Annual Destin Festival of the Arts Oct. 29–30 at Henderson Beach State Park.

This lovely Inspiration Point home in Miramar Beach, owned by Paul and Janie Van Deventer and managed by My Vacation Haven, enhances its traditional Southern coastal design with sea-inspired paintings by artist Margaret Biggs of Gulf Breeze. An accomplished artist, Biggs was named Best of American Oil Painters 2010 and Best of Worldwide Landscape Painters 2011.

“What makes this home tour exceptional is the diversity of the architecture and interior design, you’ll get to see everything from classic, Gothic Tuscany to modern and traditional Southern design for the best of coastal living,” said Marcia Hull, executive director of the Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation.

Admission is $15 in advance/$20 at the door. Tickets are available at Trustmark Bank Branches, Sugar Beach Interiors, P.S. Gifts (Fort Walton Beach) and Bayou Books (Niceville). For a home tour schedule, call (850) 650-2226 or visit mattiekellyartsfoundation.org. — Zandra Wolfgram

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i30A’S entrepreneuriAl couple iS everything you didn’t expectBy JEnnifEr Howard

In the age of big-box retailers and online shopping, few would expect to find a flourishing independent bookseller or indie music store any-where, much less in a small holiday town on Florida’s Gulf Coast.

But Sundog Books, managed by Jenny King, and Central Square Records, owned and operated by Jenny and her husband, Tom, are anything but typical. After all, how many other retailers include the front porch in their business plan?

The entrepreneurial couple mix retail savvy with a creative ap-proach to shop keeping to anchor one side of downtown Seaside in a two-story building, with Sundog Books on the bottom floor and Central Records above. The subtle mix works, providing all ages with something far more inspired than just a place to grab a best-seller or a recently released CD — it’s a gathering place where cre-ativity is celebrated.

Tom and Jenny started their life together when they met in Sea-side. He was working in a restaurant; she was working the muffin counter in Modica Market. “Tom came up and asked me some silly question that he claims he doesn’t remember,” Jenny said. “And we started talking.”

Each had worked in businesses along county road 30A. Tom’s en-trepreneurial roots go back to his grandfather’s DeFuniak Springs hardware store, King & Co., that closed in 1999 after almost a cen-tury of operation. Some of Central Records’ fixtures are relics from the venerable family shop. Jenny hails from the Atlanta area, lured by the Gulf coast’s beaches from college in Georgia, where she was studying elementary education.

Where else but The Red Bar would the couple have gone on their first date? “My parents actually met in the building that is now The Red Bar,” Tom said, with a nod to the historical synchronicity.

Internet dating sites, matchmaking friends and syrupy pop songs sing the praises of “two hearts that beat as one” in a perfect lip-lock-and-load for life. In the real world, things are much more interesting. The story of Tom and Jenny King is as much about their comple-mentary differences. The simple comparison is that Jenny’s job re-volves around words, while Tom’s business focus is on music.

Tom grew up mostly overseas in Asia and the Middle East, com-ing back to spend summers in Grayton Beach. He is likely to men-tion that while living as a young teen in Damascus, Syria, he traveled

the Kings “hold court” in a two-story house on

Central square in seaside.

to Kuwait for a basketball tournament. Jenny has never left the coun-try, although she’d like to travel one day. Tom, also an accomplished musician, has a strong entrepreneurial gene. Jenny eased into retail as she worked in various Seaside businesses. “I learned something every day,” she said. “And it’s all worked out.”

Day-to-day, Jenny is the family organizer, the couple agrees, draw-ing up the work schedule for both businesses. She said, “Tom looks at me every night and asks, ‘When do I work tomorrow?’”

With a four-year-old, a 20-month old and a 22-year-old who lives in nearby Tallahassee, keeping things running smoothly can be a challenge. The result is a kind of tag-team relay system, under which

Photos by HBB Photography

It’s Good to Be ‘Indie’ Kings

culture


‘‘The story of Tom and Jenny King is as much about their complementary differences. The simple comparison is that Jenny’s job revolves around words, while Tom’s business focus is on music.

EmEraldCoastmagazinE.Com August–September 2011 33“


Tom’s Top Music Picks

“ScandalouS,” BLACK JOE LEWIS AND

THE HONEyBEArS

“low country BlueS,”

GrEG ALLMAN

“Broken HeartS and dirty win-

dowS, reinterpre-tationS,”

JOHN PrINE

“canniBal courtSHip,”

DENGuE FEVEr

“a Friend oF a Friend,” DAVE

rAWLINGS MACHINE

kidS’ MuSic By THEy MIGHT BE GIANTS

On Jenny’s Bookshelf

“nine liveS: deatH and liFe

in new orleanS,” DAN BAuM

“Zeitoun,” DAVE EGGErS

“Molokai,” ALAN BrENNErT

“rooM,” EMMA DONOGHuE

“Snow Flower and tHe Secret

Fan,” LISA SEE

“SHantaraM,” GrEGOry DAVID

rOBErTS

anytHinG By Dr. SEuSS

one of the couple may work until 2:30 p.m. when the other pulls into the parking lot for a parental hand-off.

Some places — libraries, gourmet grocer-ies, museums, toy stores — simply demand that a visitor spend a little browsing time. Don’t be in a rush when you enter Sundog Books or Central Square Records. Park the hurry-up mentality those big boxes encour-age on the front steps, and prepare to savor nooks and crannies, clever signage and the unexpected.

Given the sprawling mega-bookstores that have gobbled up many indie shops, it’s impressive to look over the range of titles on offer in Sundog Books. Best-sellers and beach books, must-read classics, local writ-ers’ works, weighty reference tomes, chil-dren’s and humorous books fill the floor-to-ceiling shelves and display tables. Jenny and the other shop employees maintain shelves displaying their current favorites. “Every day is something different,” Jenny said. “It’s far from stagnant. It’s a challenge to find things that people enjoy.” Handcrafted cards, artsy toys, games and gifts tucked in various spots elicit smiles and trigger con-versation with other customers. Barefoot browsing is OK.

Sundog Books sponsors a monthly book discussion group that draws participants from up and down the beach, both locals and visitors who may be around. Local free publications can be found near the front door. Writers stop by to sign copies of their works on the shady front porch — a good place to frequently check the bulletin boards to see what’s going on and who’s in town.

Follow the foot and paw prints on the

culture


wooden floor to the stairs up to Central Square Records. In some ways, the shop’s name is misleading. Yes, it’s a place where you can buy honest-to-goodness vinyl re-cord albums (old and new) and even 45s, and show your kids how they produce music on the shop’s turntables. A significant breadth of newer CDs is also on offer, along with classic discs. Promotional poster art covers the walls, some enduring classics while oth-ers tout new releases.

Perhaps more unexpected are things like guitar string lubricant, finger strengthen-ers, replacement strings, guitar straps, tuners and other items musicians require. Into music from well before he made the decision to join the high school band for the trip to New Orleans’ Mardi Gras, Tom found he was frustrated with the dearth of musician’s supplies available any closer than the state capital. To keep local and visiting musicians happily making music, Central Record Store stocks these supplies on their “musicians’ wall” near the main counter.

As part of the fun, locally designed T-shirts share shelf space with mini-ukuleles in bright primary colors (with matching carrying cases). No home should be without the wall-mounted inflated moose heads for sale. “We live in a log cabin, so it’s perfect for us, too,” Tom noted of the faux game trophy.

Shoppers never know who else may be flipping through albums or having a cup of Jittery Joe coffee in the store. “We have a strong Nashville connection,” Tom said “Roseanne Cash was in here using the Wi-Fi in the back. John Prine comes in when he’s in town.” In mid-May, recording artist David Lowery gave a rare solo acoustic per-formance featuring music from his new al-bum, “The Palace Guards.” Central Square Records just marked its busiest day ever when it joined other indie shops participat-ing in a national Record Store Day.

The economy has many retailers singing the blues, but Tom and Jenny find reason to be upbeat. “The economy has triggered cre-ativity again,” Tom said. “Things have come full circle. People are taking creative risks that they weren’t a few years ago.”

The couple credits the unique character of 30A for the quality of both their busi-ness and their way of life. “It’s a zone of unique culture,” Tom said. “There are crazy interesting people here.” The sense of com-munity and the encouragement of creative expression, coupled with the fact that visi-tors have time to savor these characteristics, make it possible to be an independent suc-cess, they believe. Tom and Jenny are quick to point out they are enjoying right now, but looking forward to a future where their fam-ily grows along with their business. ec

for all of life’s occasions

Santa Rosa Beach, FL • 850.502.9124 • shellyswangerphotography.com

fi ne art • events • commericalpeople, places, things


august + september

Tuesdays through OctoberBands on the Beach the beach’s favorite summer evening concert series features the sounds of local musical favorites. Bring your beach chair and enjoy great music under the stars. Free. gulfside pavilion, pensacola Beach. 7–9 p.m. (850) 932-2257, visitpensacolabeach.com

Wednesdays through Aug. 10destin Commons open studioBring the kids out on Wednesdays to get creative and experience something new and exciting with a variety of art media. this event is for children ages 5–12. $20. destin commons Studio near Belk, 4300 legendary drive, destin. 2–3 p.m. (850) 424-5058. register online at abrakadoodle.com/fl07.

Wednesdays through Oct. 26wednesday night Concert seriesSatisfy your musical taste buds with a month-long series of alluring sounds from some of the region’s most talented musicians. Free. the village of Baytowne Wharf at Sandestin events plaza, 9300 emerald coast pkwy. W., Miramar Beach. 7–9 p.m. (850) 267-8186, baytownewharf.com

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thecalendarAli Hogenson competes for Team South Walton in the women’s division.

+ events

YOLO Mileage Builder SeriesAugust 13 If you haven’t tried it and you’re just curious enough to cross it off your “bucket list,” or you are an experienced paddling pro, the 2011 YOLO Mileage Builder series event gives all paddle boarders a fun endurance challenge.

The 2011 YOLO Board Mileage Builder Series, which kicked off in May at Baytowne Marina in Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort, consists of a series of four endurance-building races that began with one mile and culminate on Aug. 13 with a four-mile course. Racers vie for the champion title “2011 YOLO Board Mileage Builder Series” to be awarded after the final race in August.

$35 day-of entry fee includes a complimentary event T-shirt. Race divisions include stock 12-foot, 12-foot, 6-inch race, 14-foot race and unlimited. Registration will begin at 8 a.m.; the race clinic begins at 8:30 a.m. and the race starts at 9:30 a.m. For more information, visit yoloboard.com or call (850) 622-5760.

Thursdays through Aug. 11 sunset CinemaMake it a movie night for the whole family and enjoy some of your favorite films under the stars. Movies include “Matilda,” “Megamind” and “despicable Me.” Free. the village of Bay-towne Wharf at Sandestin events plaza, 9300 emerald coast pkwy. W., Miramar Beach. 8 p.m. (850) 267-8186, baytownewharf.com

Thursdays through Aug. 25Evenings in olde seville squareget ready for downtown pensacola’s summer concert series. Bring a picnic and enjoy musi-cal styles ranging from big band and jazz to Broadway show tunes. Free. 381 e. government St., pensacola. 7–9:30 p.m. (850) 438-6505, beachguide.com

Thursdays through Sept. 1 red, white & Blue Celebration on the Harborred, White and Blue celebrations at harbor-Walk village honor local heroes. each week, the festivities highlight the efforts of people who go above and beyond to make their commu-nity better. enjoy local entertainment on the main stage, free children’s arts and crafts, and a flyover of World War ii replica airplanes. A fireworks display over the destin harbor closes the event. Free. harborWalk village, 10 harbor Blvd., destin. 6:30 p.m. concert, 8:30 p.m. fire-works, (850) 424-0600, harborwalkdestin.com

Fridays throughout the yeardowntown art walk Stroll Fort Walton Beach’s historic district and visit with merchants from participating shops


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

+ festivals

33rd Annual Destin Seafood FestivalSept. 30–Oct. 2 Biting into a juicy grouper sandwich will give you a taste of what the “World’s Luckiest Fishing Village” is all about.

This year the Destin Charter Boat Association, in partnership with the Florida Restaurant Association and the Emerald Coast Convention and Visitors Bureau, will present the 33rd annual Destin Seafood Festival along the Destin harbor front from the HarborWalk Village to the Boathouse Oyster Bar. The free, three-day event features Destin’s delicious seafood favorites, live music, family fun activities and more.The festival kicks off Friday at 4 p.m. and runs until 10 p.m. Saturday, the event is 10 a.m. to 10 p.m., and Sunday the fun continues from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. For more information, call (850) 218-0232 or visit destinseafoodfestival.org .

Aug. 1 and 8Watch the summer blues disappear at the Magical Monday show by magician rick Moore. Add a little magic to your summer with this family-friendly show full of laughs and illusions. After the show, visit rick Moore’s Magic Shop to create your own magic. Free. the village of Baytowne Wharf at Sandestin, 9100 Baytowne Blvd., Miramar Beach. Show times are 7 p.m. and 8 p.m. (850) 267-8186, baytownewharf.com

Aug. 1 and 8 ‘the stinky Cheese Man’the Seaside Amphitheater hosts a special per-formance filled with learning and entertainment for kids of all ages. Free. Seaside repertory theatre, 216 Quincy circle, Seaside. 7:30 p.m., (850) 231-0733, seasiderep.org

Aug. 2family Martial arts: from Kickboxing and self-defense to Jiu JitsuBring your family to experience this martial arts event with Monica Sanford from club Jiu Jitsu. Free. crestview public library, 1445 commerce drive., crestview (behind the post office).10:30 a.m. (850) 682-4432, cityofcrest-view.org/library.php Aug. 2 and 9 Cinema under the stars at alys Beach Bring blankets and low-back chairs to enjoy a family-friendly film in the amphitheatre. “tangled” will be shown on Aug. 2 and “Bolt” on Aug. 9. Free. Alys Beach Amphitheater. 8 p.m.

Aug. 2 and 9Mini Gras & Boomin’ tuesdaysAn evening of fun and merriment awaits at the village of Baytowne Wharf. enjoy special chil-dren’s activities sprinkled throughout the events plaza. Fireworks light up the sky over the lagoon at 9:15 p.m. participation in Mini gras is Free. enjoy the bouncy castle and other inflatables by purchasing a $10 wristband. 9100 Baytowne Blvd., Miramar Beach. 7–10 p.m. (850) 267-8186, baytownewharf.com

and restaurants while enjoying art demonstra-tions, live music, complimentary refreshments and special discounts. Free. downtown Fort Walton Beach. 5:30–8:30 p.m. For more infor-mation, contact tara Wesley at (850) 226-7763.

Fridays through Augustsounds of summerthe beat goes on in pensacola Beach with this free concert series most Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays. Free. pensacola Beach Boardwalk Amphitheatre.7–9 p.m. (850) 932-1500, pensa-colabeachchamber.com

Saturdays through Aug. 27seaside farmers Marketget your pick of fresh produce, baked goods, dairy products, native plants and other unique offerings at the Seaside community’s Saturday morning market. Buy local specialties and help sustain nearby growers. Special cooking demos and activities are sure to liven up your morning. Free. Behind raw & Juicy at the Sea-side Amphitheater, 216 Quincy circle, Seaside, 8 a.m.–noon, seasidefl.com

Saturdays through Sept. 3rock the docks every Saturday night in June and through la-bor day weekend, come out for a great evening on the destin harbor to party and dance to the beat of free live musical performances. Free. harborWalk village, 10 harbor Blvd., destin. 7 p.m. (850) 224-0600, harborwalkdestin.com

Sundays through Sept. 4operation inspirationA new event at harborWalk village features a lineup of singers from a variety of music genres to entertain audiences on the main stage. operation inspiration will offer different performances every week, including American idol night on Sept. 4, featuring former contes-tants Felicia, phil Stacey and chris Sligh. Free. harborWalk village, 10 harbor Blvd., destin. 5 p.m. meet and greet the artists, 6 p.m. con-cert. (850) 424-0600, harborwalkdestin.com

Compiled by Zandra Wolfgram


thecalendarAug. 2–13stories by the seaBring the kids to experience storytelling in a whole new way, as the Seaside repertory theatre presents one-of-a-kind performances for children of all ages. Free. gateway lyceum Arch in central Square. Mon.–Fri., 4 p.m. (850) 231-0733, seasidefl.com

Aug. 3 seaside summer Concert seriescome hear singer/songwriter Joe Firstman at Seaside. the multitalented barefoot musician will stomp the ground and pound his piano keys through a set that’s often compared to the sounds of Bruce hornsby & the range and the Band. Free. Seaside Amphitheater. 216 Quincy circle. (850) 231-6107, seasidefl.com

Aug. 3 and 10 summer Concert series at alys BeachBring your dancing shoes and enjoy live music outdoors in the Alys Beach Amphitheatre. groove daddy performs Aug. 3 and the Forest Williams Band hits the stage on Aug. 10. Free. Alys Beach Amphitheater. 7 p.m.

Aug. 4youth village after school Programhomework assistance, reading circles, comput-er literacy, acting, dancing, improv, fitness and nutrition information and much more geared to kids ages 5 to 16. $25/week. 312 pelham road, Fort Walton Beach. Mon–Fri, 2–6 p.m. (850) 986-0549, nelliesyouthvillage.org

Aug. 4 and 11‘alice’s adventures in wonderland’From the moment Alice falls down a rabbit hole into the zany world of Wonderland, the fun never stops in this mesmerizing production presented by the Seaside rep theatre. Bring the family and low-back chairs to enjoy the perfor-mance. Free. Seaside Amphitheater, 216 Quincy circle. 6:30 p.m.

Aug. 5–7Bushwacker festival and 5Kthis festival is centered around pensacola’s favorite adult beverage: the milk chocolately bushwacker. enjoy a fun run and celebration on the boardwalk. $20. 735 pensacola Beach Blvd., pensacola Beach. the 5K begins at 7:30 a.m. Aug. 6 at the gulf Breeze community center. Free entertainment throughout the weekend at capt n’ Fun and portofino Boardwalk. (850) 434-1234, visitpensacola.com

Aug. 5 and 12Central square Cinemagrab your blankets and head to the Amphitheater for movies under the stars. “Marmaduke” is showing Aug. 5 and “the truman Show,” much of it filmed in Seaside, is set for Aug. 12. Free. Seaside Amphithe-ater, 216 Quincy circle. 8 p.m. seasidefl.com

Aug. 5 and 12 Parents’ night out at alys BeachBring the kids and a sack dinner to parents’

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night out. Kids ages 4 to 10 will enjoy art, games and a movie while you enjoy a date night out. $20 per child. Alys Beach Amphitheater. call (850) 424-5058 to register.

Aug. 5 and Sept. 2first friday artwalk enjoy live music and view beautiful works of art and artist demos at the galleries and shops of ruskin place and select central Square mer-chants. Free. ruskin place & central Square at Seaside, 5–8 p.m., seasidefl.com

Aug. 5–7 and 12 –14 ‘willy wonka’An eccentric candy maker leads five children on a perilous tour of his fantastic factory in this whimsical musical. Adult tickets are $10–$20; children 12 and younger are admitted at half price. pensacola little theatre, 400 S. Jefferson St. Fri–Sat 7:30 p.m., Sun 2:30 p.m., (850) 432-2042, pensacolalittletheatre.com

Aug. 5–Sept. 312th annual Photography and digital art show Meet the artists and enjoy the work at the Arts and design Society event’s opening reception Friday, Aug. 5 from 5–7 p.m. the exhibit continues through Sept. 3. Free. Arts and design Society Art center gallery, 17 First St. S.e., Fort Walton Beach. gallery hours are tues-Fri noon –4 p.m., Sat 1–4 p.m. (850) 244-1271, artsdesignsociety.org

Aug. 6 2011 aGla Bob Zdenek Memorial annual Bass tournament tournament organizers will award $3,000 to the boat catching the five heaviest fish during this fourth annual event. one additional cash award will be given for every seven boats registered. event supports the emerald coast children’s Advocacy center. $110 per boat (up to two anglers per boat). Marina at Marina village in Freeport. 7 p.m. for mandatory Aug. 5 pre-event meeting. First light for boats in the water Aug. 6. (850) 833-9237 ext. 256, aglabass2011.eventbrite.com or eccac.org

Aug. 10 seaside summer Concert series georgia boy tim Brantley’s sound is an exciting blend of pop and rock channeling musical influ-ences like hall & oates, Wilco and Fleetwood Mac, while defining a distinctive style all his own. his album “goldtop heights” is a com-manding and infectious mix of ’70 pop rock, Atlanta grit and Brantley-style wistfulness. Free. Seaside Amphitheater. 216 Quincy circle. (850) 231-6107, seasidefl.com

Aug. 12Music & art on Main street come stroll Main Street in historic downtown crestview and enjoy original art for sale, live music and classic cars. Stay and have dinner at one of crestview’s several downtown restau-rants. Free. Main Street in historic downtown crestview. 5–9 p.m. (850) 689-3722 ext 230, mainstreetcrestview.org

Aug. 12–13the sandestin Music festivalMusic will fill the air at Sandestin golf and


Vincent and Angie Lopresti

Pamela Wynn and Heather Millican

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most popular wine event. Photos by Zandra Wolfgram

Kim Miller and Glennie rice

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Beach resort during the second annual Sandestin Music Festival presented on mul-tiple outdoor stages throughout the resort. Free. 9300 emerald coast pkwy. W., Miramar Beach.6–11:30 p.m. (850) 267-8117, sandestin-musicfestival.com

Aug. 20 sandestin triathlonthe 25th Annual Sandestin triathlon will challenge 700 athletes to a half-mile gulf of Mexico swim, a 20-mile bike trek along the coast and a 4-mile run through Sandestin’s beach and bayside community. proceeds benefit Sacred heart hospital on the emerald coast. registration is $110 after Aug. 1; $150 for a three-person relay team; $160 for a three-person relay team after Aug. 1. Sand-estin golf and Beach resort, 9300 emerald coast pkwy. W., Miramar Beach. 6:30–11 a.m. (877) 276-8860, sandestin.com/events

Sept. 2–4Baytowne 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. 2–4 Jamaican festActivities include live music, a kids’ zone, sidewalk sale and the “Anything that Floats” race in the Santa rosa Sound. race fee is $30. All other events are Free. portofino Boardwalk. the famous bathtub races begin at 2 p.m. Sept. 4. (850) 932-1500, pensacola-beachchamber.com

Sept. 3–4 labor day weekend Celebrationthe Merchants of Seaside host an end-of-sum-mer celebration with events ranging from music to movies to crafts for the kids. enjoy live music performed by ryan Kinder Saturday night and the animated feature film “tangled” under the stars on Sunday night. Free. Seaside Amphithe-ater, 216 Quincy circle, 7 p.m. concert, 8 p.m. movie. Seaside, (850) 231-6107, seasidefl.com

Sept. 4a farewell to summer ConcertAs the most authentic Beatles tribute band in the world, the return, performs a set list from the Fab Four’s cavern club days in their hometown of liverpool to their last concert performance to-gether at candlestick park in 1966. $10 admission per adult, kids under 12 Free. 4323 commons drive West, destin (behind destin yMcA & grace lutheran church). 7 p.m. (850) 650-2226, mattiekellyartsfoundation.org/concerts.php

Sept. 6resin Casting for design and Jewelry with Mary smithduring this hands-on class in basic resin cast-ing, you’ll learn how to finish a beautiful focal

thecalendar


Hank Standridge

Susan Block with ron Green

Michelle and Annabelle ZielinskiSandra Hofer

Daniel Thornton and Maya Thornton

Doruk Gurunlu with Katrina McAlpin

okaloosa Arts Alliance’s 4th Annual Family Fun Arts Fest May 14, 2011. the okaloosa Arts Alliance made henderson Beach State park even lovelier on this spring day with a display of arts, crafts, music, dance and family fun. Photos by Zandra Wolfgram

digital graffiti June 11, 2011. the whitewashed walls of

Alys Beach were transformed into stunning displays of eclectic digital art for thousands

who attended the hippest beach party on the coast. Photos by Zandra Wolfgram

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Cody, Melinda, William and Ethan Pickren


piece of your own original design. $80. Arts and design Society’s Studio, 17 First St. S.e., Fort Walton Beach. 10 a.m.–2 p.m. Students will provide their own materials. (850) 244-1271, artsdesignsociety.org

Sept. 6Civil war sesquicentennial: asboth raid of 1864come join author and historian dale cox to learn about the Asboth’s raid, where union troops marched from pensacola to attack a confederate base at Marianna, skirting the area that later became niceville and valparaiso. Free crestview public library, 1445 commerce drive, crestview (behind the post office). 10:30 a.m. (850) 682-4432, cityofcrest-view.org/library.php Sept. 6Clay for Childrenin this class, kids ages 7–14 will learn how to work with clay using with coils, slabs and some work on the wheel. different techniques and terminology will be taught. $60. Arts and design Society’s Studio, 17 First St. S.e., Fort Walton Beach. 4–5:45 p.m. (850) 244-1271, artsdesign-society.org

Sept. 6–103rd annual seaside yolo Board Celebration head down to Seaside to check out the sport everyone is talking about. this unique event features races with competitors from around the world, as well as product demos, clinics and other cool beach events. the festivities will include other activities in the Amphitheater with an awards presentation, silent auction and music. call for registration fees. go online for full schedule. Seaside Beach & Amphitheater, 8 a.m. (850) 622-5760, yolobseasiderace.com

Sept. 9–11 sounds of summeroverlooking the pristine Santa rosa Sound, local musician dr. Breeze will entertain families. Free. Quietwater Shell on the Boardwalk, pen-sacola Beach. 6–8 p.m. (850) 932-1500

Sept. 9–Oct. 8let’s Go van Goghthis exhibit is full of works of art reflect-ing the various styles of vincent van gogh. Attend the opening reception Friday, Sept. 6 from 5–7 p.m., and you can meet the artists and view their work. Free. Arts and design Society’s Art center gallery, 17 First St. S.e., Fort Walton Beach. gallery hours are tues–Fri noon–4 p.m., Sat 1–4 p.m. (850) 244-1271, artsdesignsociety.org

Sept. 10‘the french Connection’conductor Jeffrey rink opens the northwest Florida Symphony orchestra’s concert season with an evening of music by renowned French composers Berlioz, chabrier, ravel and Saint-

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Saëns. guest artist gold Medal pianist Ko-eun lee will highlight the season opener with her per-formance of Saint-Saëns’ bubbly “piano concerto no. 2.” tickets are $22.50 for adults; $16 for youth under 18. Mattie Kelly Arts center at northwest Florida State college in niceville. 7:30 p.m. (850) 729-6000, mattiekellyartscenter.org

Sept. 13Metal Etching Class for Mixed Media with Mary smithlearn how to fearlessly work with metal and gain the creative freedom to fabricate your own amaz-ing focal pieces and imaginative findings. What you learn in this class may be applied to your work in jewelry, mixed media collage, pottery … you name it! cost is $80, plus a $10 supply kit. Arts and design Society’s Art center gallery, 17 First St S.e., Fort Walton Beach. 10 a.m.–2 p.m. (850) 244-1271, artsdesignsociety.org

Sept. 17–184th annual taste of the Beachget a sampling of island flavors from the area’s best chefs. tastings from $2-$5 and Free enter-tainment along with children’s activities. casino Beach, pensacola Beach. 11 a.m.–4 p.m. (850) 932-1500, pensacolabeachchamber.com

Sept. 21–24rosemary Beach writer’s ConferenceAttendees can have their writing skills, make professional contacts, and learn new ways to get their work published. $250 registration fee, $125 one-day registration, rosemary Beach town hall, 8 a.m.–7 p.m., (850) 231-7382, conferenceforwriters.com

Sept. 26–Oct. 2Pensacola Beach songwriters festivalthe pensacola Beach Songwriters’ Festival will introduce you to the stories behind the songs you love. Admission ranges from Free to mod-est cover charge. 735 pensacola Beach Blvd., pensacola Beach. times vary. (850) 341-0889, pensacolabeachsongwritersfestival.com

Sept. 29an Evening with George rodriguethe Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation and the george rodrigue Foundation of the Arts will present a special evening with internationally recognized louisiana artist and creator of the Blue dog series, george rodrigue. call (850) 650-2226 for prices and reservations. Sea-gar’s at hilton Sandestin Beach golf resort & Spa, 4000 Sandestin Blvd. South, Miramar Beach. 7 p.m. (850) 650-2226, mattiekel-lyartsfoundation.org

Sept. 30 ‘Corbian the dinosaur, Glow in the dark adventure’ the northwest Florida Ballet presents a family-friendly, one-hour show that promises giant fun. call for ticket prices. Mattie Kelly Arts center at northwest Florida State college in niceville. 10 a.m. and 7:30 p.m. (850) 664-7787, nwfballet.org ec

thecalendar

they say you can measure the heart of a community by the health of its arts scene. If that’s the case, the Emerald Coast has got a lot of heart and soul. The beach towns and small

communities nestled from 30A to Pensacola are home to hundreds of talented artists who collaborate with dozens of art organizations — some edgy and new, others traditional and several decades old — to bring us inspired music, vibrant art and thrilling theater offerings all year long. From Broadway to the Bard and beautiful art galleries in between, EC Magazine canvassed the coast to find out what the “hottest tickets” in town hold for us this season.

A Visual Art Feast 30A is to Northwest Florida what Louvre is to Europe — a trea-

sure trove of visual art. Rosemary Beach, Seaside and Grayton Beach are the cradle of the visual arts. (One of the most celebrated art fes-tivals in the area, the ArtsQuest Fine Arts Festival, now held in Sea-side, was formed by the many local artists in Grayton Beach in the late 1980s.) Tucked in upscale row houses under a canopy of scrub oak trees is Seaside’s handsome “artist colony” called Ruskin Place — an eclectic collection of several art galleries and studios. The Red Bird Gallery, The Art of Simple, Albert F’s, Newbill Collection by the Sea and the Eileen West Gallery, to name just a few, are found here. The gallery owners open their studio doors and welcome art lovers with refreshments and live music during the First Friday Art Walk event each month beginning at 5 p.m.

A testament to the thriving art scene of 30A is the Ogden Mu-seum at WaterColor. Building upon the larger regional and national

theArtsarealive


The hearT ofThe emerald CoasT BeaTs sTrong WiTh

a ViBranT arTs sCeneBy zandra Wolfgram

grammy nominated shawn mullins sings his story-like

songs at seaside during the 2011 30a songwriter’s Festival.


interest in the Ogden Museum of Southern Art/University of New Orleans, the Ogden opened a new satellite museum in WaterColor in 2008. The museum, which is free, showcases a number of chang-ing exhibitions, and serves as a branch of the Ogden’s Center for Southern Craft and Design.

But you don’t have to go to a gallery to enjoy great local art. The South Walton Tourist Development Council created Art in Public Places — a program giving local artists public settings to display their work year-round. Now, visits to the library, courthouse, state parks and many official buildings are brightened by the talent of lo-cal artists such as Dorothy Starbuck, Susan Lucas, Justin Gaffrey, Martha Cooper and Allison Wickey, among many others.

The Voice of Art The Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation (MKAF) is synonymous with

the arts in Destin. Established in 1995 as a not-for-profit organiza-tion, its mission is to honor the late Destin pioneer, Mattie Kelly, by promoting arts and education through cultural events and educa-tional programs. “We were one of the first organizations and one of the only organizations doing concerts 16 years ago. We had a humble beginning,” said MKAF executive director Marcia Hull.

In addition to weekly outdoor concerts in May and June, the Mat-tie Kelly Arts Foundation also presents the Destin Festival of the Arts in concert with a private home tour (showcasing local artists’ work) in September. Your children may have experienced one of the many art programs the foundation has presented to 40,000 children in more than 30 Okaloosa and Walton county schools. They also of-fer after-school art instruction at select schools, and art and theater camps during the summer.

When the economy slowed, Hull turned her focus from raising funds to raising awareness. “I realized I didn’t need to ask people for money, I needed to focus on sustainability of our organization,” she said. Hull zeroed in on elevating the arts on the “agenda” of local of-ficials. Her single-handed lobbying efforts convinced the Economic Development Council of Okaloosa County to host a cultural tourism symposium this year. But she isn’t stopping there. Hull is collaborat-ing with the city of Destin and its chamber of commerce to create a cultural arts and preservation commission.

“We need a voice. This is about creating a quality of place. ” (The arts) is a proven catalyst for growth, quality of life and economic prosperity.” she said. For Hull it’s not just business, it’s personal, too. “I personally just can’t imagine a community without art. It is central to quality family time,” she said.

The Music Makers While music is universal, we all sway to a different beat of the

snare drum. From rock concerts on the beach to jazz in small clubs, the Emerald Coast pulses with a diverse range of music seeping from its restaurants, nightspots, bars and even churches. Mainstays such as the rhythmic Jones & Company, melodic Reed Waddle and folksy Dread Clampitt — who have played the coast for years — are joined by newer bands and performers such as reggae-rockers Heritage and soulful singers such as Curtis Clark. You can catch a live performance nearly every night of the week.

An anchor for the professional music scene in the Emerald Coast is Sinfonia Gulf Coast. Lead by maestro Demetrius Fuller, the orchestra’s sixth season will embrace an Americana theme. The season kicks off in October with an intimate gala event at Seagar’s Restaurant featuring the John Pizzarelli. Fuller describers the entertainer as a world-renowned jazz guitarist and singer who says he will offer up “innovative selections that will surely reinterpret the Great American Songbook.”

Main stage Sinfonia concerts, performed at the Destiny Worship Center and the Emerald Coast Conference Center, will include the popular Orchestral Holiday show featuring Grammy-award-winning

CloCKWisE, From aBoVE: mattie Kelly arts Foundation’s popular outdoor summer Concert series is a longtime

local tradition; south Walton 2011 artist of the year allison Wickey creates abstract nature landscape paintings

inspired by the Emerald Coast; dread Clampitt’s “hipbilly” sound rocks several local beach bars; seaside’s red

Bird gallery showcases nearly two dozen visual artists; award-winning photographer michael granbury frames the Emerald Coast beautifully in this dramatic beach portrait.

vocal quartet New York Voices; a concert by violinist Caroline Gould-ing; “Rhapsody in Blue;” as well as a concerto and pops concert. Fuller said Sinfonia plans to continue its community outreach with themed dinners, 5K runs, and its intensive series of art education, which last year brought Sinfonia’s music education program to more than 30,000 local students.

where do the artists go for their ‘art fix’?“To me art, music and food go hand in hand. I like to go Vintij for a nice dinner, have a glass of wine and hear some live music like jazz or go to a Sinfonia concert.” — Todd Allen, Artistic Director, Northwest Florida Ballet

“I enjoy browsing the art galleries along 30A. I like going to small concerts at churches, and I like to go to see the Pensacola Opera.” — Demetrius Fuller, Director, Sinfonia Gulf Coast

“I really like the Fort Walton Beach Art Walk, the Belmont Arts and Cultural Center’s Hot Glass Cold Beer event in Pensacola and Digital Graffiti in Alys Beach. These are things I try not to miss.” — Mercedes Rogers, Artist and Owner, Full Circle Gallery


Coined “a symphony redefined,” Fuller describes the orchestra this way: “Sinfonia Gulf Coast is one-stop symphony shopping that combines a traditional symphony, the pops, chamber music and so-cial events — all in one.”

After five seasons, Fuller has become known for staging lively music events. Incorpo-rating other art forms, such as dance and visual art, along with celebrity performances has given Sinfonia a broad audience base — and a benchmark. “If I had a nickel for every time someone asked me ‘How are you going to top this?’ I’d be rich,” he said.

For Fuller, being suc-cessful at anything means constantly challenging the status quo. “I think it’s time for art organizations in our area to reinvent themselves. It’s really easy for any business to get in a groove and do the same old thing, but that doesn’t inspire new energy into your organization. It’s a task to continually adjust your mission statement, but you have to,” he said.

Jump in With Both Hands and FeetIn Fort Walton Beach, you can experience art “hands-on.” The

Art and Design Society (ADSO), for example, offers year-round art classes, workshops and seminars in drawing, painting, encaustic and clay sculpture in its Art Center studio. ADSO also presents monthly art exhibitions at its Art Center gallery and produces two major art shows: the Southeast Regional Juried Art Exhibition in May and the Beaux Art Exhibit, now in its 53rd year, in February.

The Northwest Florida Art Association (NWFAA) holds several types of art workshops ranging from digital art and website design to photography and cartooning in downtown Fort Walton Beach in what they call the Lair at Fountain Square.

Full Circle Gallery, located on Eglin Parkway, owned and operated by Mercedes Rogers, is another place art lovers of all ages are encour-aged to touch art. She offers “sip and spin” sessions, where you can gather with a spouse or friends and sip wine while “throwing” clay on the pottery wheel. The gallery also offers painting parties, raku work-shops, pottery classes, seasonal workshops and children’s art classes.

For Rogers, being an arts advocate not only is enriching, but it makes economic sense. “It is important to support local arts because the money spent on these kinds of products goes directly back into the local economy,” Rogers said.

In addition to presenting a full season and its top-rated public school, The Académie, the Northwest Florida Ballet, lead by artistic director Todd Allen, also offers a range of dance classes such as ballet, tap dance and hip hop for both children and adults.

This year, the ballet is stepping up its programming with some-thing new — a family show. The ballet will stage “Corbian,” an original production about a glow-in-the-dark dinosaur. The family-friendly performance, slated for Sept. 30, will only run an hour long, plenty of time for little dancers to make their early bedtimes. The company will reprise their popular holiday production of “The

how to support the arts » Attend an art event» Become a member of a

local art organization» Support art education

programs» Buy art from local artists» Donate your time as a

volunteer» Reserve subscription

seats to a music or performing arts series

» Give your business to companies who actively support the arts

» Speak up to your legislators

BEloW: destin’s reed Waddle (shown here as EC magazine’s one to Watch in april

2009) now performs his poetic melodies all across the country; rigHt: dynamic

computer art is the centerpiece of digital graffiti, an electrifying annual summer event, at alys Beach; Bottom: sinfonia

gulf Coast, led by Fort Walton Beach-born maestro demetrius Fuller, is known for its

modern take on presenting the classics.


arty facts» The Mozart Effect surfaced when research

uncovered that adults who listened to music of complexity for 10 minutes or so experienced temporary increases in their spatial IQ scores.1

» Music training, specifically piano instruction, is far superior to computer instruction in dramatically enhancing children’s abstract reasoning skills necessary for learning math and science. Learning music at an early age causes long-term enhancement of spatial-temporal reasoning.2

» 57.8 million people attended arts and cultural events in Florida in 2008.3

» In 2008, 88,326 jobs were supported by arts and culture in Florida.3

» 74.9 percent of visitors to Florida participate in cultural activities.3

» Florida cultural tourists spend more than tourists not attending cultural events ($631 per day compared to $457).3

Sources: 1-Frances Rauscher, Ph.D., Gordon Shaw, Ph.D., University of California, Irvine ; 2-Frances Rauscher, Ph.D., Gordon Shaw, Ph.D., University of California, Irvine; 3-Florida Division of Cultural Affairs


Nutcracker” (Nov. 19–20) and stage “Romeo and Juliet” (Mar. 31–Apr. 1). During the summer months the ballet plans to bring its troupe to stages throughout the community, including the St. Augustine Green at Rosemary Beach.

For Allen, the most important thing art lovers can do is speak up. “This is a time to be vocal,” he said. “Across the state and the country all art organizations are going through really tough time right now. We’re lucky to have a symphony, an opera (and) beauti-ful museums in our small community, but we can’t take them for granted. If you appreciate the arts, let your elected officials in Tal-lahassee and D.C. know just how much.”

On Stage in PensacolaThe “City of Five Flags” is home to the cultural “big five:”

ballet, opera, symphony, theater and an accredited museum of visual arts.

It just may be safe to say William Shakespeare is alive in Pensacola! The Pensacola Shakespeare Theatre has launched its second season. Under the artistic direction of Kevin Kern, the new company plans to stage both classic and modern works “that inform, inspire and enlight-en audiences.” The next production, “Twelfth Night,” is scheduled for August 11–14 at the Center for Fine and Performing Arts at the

University of West Florida campus.

One of the jew-els in the crown of Pensacola’s royal art offerings is surely the Saenger Theatre. Known as the “Grand Dame of Palafox,” the Saenger, which opened its Span-ish Baroque doors in 1925, underwent a $15 million renovation in 2009. The 2011-12 Broadway series in-cludes “ Mark Twain Tonight!” with Hal Holbrook (Oct. 15); “My Fair Lady” (Nov. 30), “Elvis Lives” (Jan. 29), “Riv-erdance” (Feb. 14), Mel Brooks’ “Young Fran-kenstein” (March 19) and “Straight No Chaser” (May 6).

The Pensacola Opera, which started out in 1983 as volunteer-based organization, is celebrating its 28th season this year with two main stage productions at the Saenger Theatre. This year’s season will in-clude Giacomo Puccini’s sweeping Japanese tragedy, “Madame Butter-fly” (Jan. 20 and 22) with the role of Cio-cio San performed by soprano Inna Dukach and the tenor role, Lt. Pinkerton, performed by Dinyar Vinai. Giuseppe Verdi’s masterpiece, “Rigoletto” (March 9 and 11) stars Todd Thomas, Jane Redding and Chad Johnson in the lead roles.

Off the stage, Gallery Night is increasingly popular casual art event. Downtown Pensacola art galleries, restaurants and shops open several times a year for an after-hours evening of sampling the city’s arts and culture at a leisurely pace.

For more information on the Emerald Coast art scene, note the various art organizations and resources listed, and check out the cal-endar event listings in each issue of EC magazine. ec

not quite a Michelangelo?Try your hand at volunteering with one of these local art organizations:

Mattie Kelly Arts Foundationinfo@mattiekellyartsfoundation.orgmattiekellyartsfoundation.org(850) 650-2226

Art & Design Society of [email protected](850) 244-1271

Cultural Arts Association [email protected](850) 622-5970

Okaloosa Arts Association [email protected] okaloosaarts.org(850) 499-8335

BEloW: seaside rEP theatre’s comedy improv

group, Basic Character Flaws, perforing late-

night comedy in 2007; rigHt: Pensacola

shakespeare theatre was a big to do when it staged shakespeare’s “much ado

about nothing” in its first season last summer.

oPPositE PagE: more than 100 juried artists

from across the country showcase paintings, glass,

sculpture, jewelry, mixed media and more during the

three-day artsQuest Fine arts Festival, which will

mark 24 years in 2012.


mark your calendarSeptember » Destin Festival of the Arts

by the Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation, Henderson Beach State Park, Destin

January » 30A Songwriter’s Festival

by the Cultural Arts Association, presented all along 30A

February » 53rd Annual Beaux

Arts Exhibit by the Art & Design Society, Westwood Retirement Community Atrium

May» ArtsQuest Fine Arts

Festival by the Cultural Arts Association, Seaside

» Southeast Juried Regional Art Exhibition by the Art & Design Society,

» McIlroy Gallery, Mattie Kelly Performing Fine Arts Center, Niceville

June» Concerts in the Park

by the Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation, Destin

» Digital Graffiti Festival, Alys Beach

Photography Credits: BrAnDAn BABIneAux (P. 49, AllISOn WICkey), lArry DAVIDSOn (P. 48, Summer COnCerT SerIeS; P. 52, SeASIDe reP THeATre), SCOTT HOlSTeIn (P. 50, reeD WADDle), SHelly SWAnGer (P. 46, SHAWn mullInS; P. 49, DreAD ClAmPITT; P. 53, ArTSQueST).

Additional photography provided by: BeACHeS OF SOuTH WAlTOn (P. 49, mICHAel GrAnBerry), reD BIrD GAllery (P. 49), SInFOnIA (P. 50), AlyS BeACH (P. 51), PenSACOlA SHAkeSPeAre THeATre (P. 53).


Presented by:

PresentInG sPOnsOr:

september 23, 2011, 6pm–2amemerald grande

PrOmOtIOn

Thanks to your nominations, the top salons have been selected to compete for the title of Emerald Coast’s Top Salon! The competition began weeks ago with the selection of the salon finalists, shown

here with their models in their “before” shots. The salons will have only 32 hours to primp, clip and coif their models in preparation to reveal their new looks at the Top Salon runway show for charity on Sept. 23.

Mark your calendar for the Top Salon celebration Sept. 23 at Emer-ald Grande at HarborWalk Village. A panel of judges and all attendees will cast their vote to determine the Top Salon of the Emerald Coast.

The competition is sure to be fierce, but only one establishment will earn the right to call itself the Emerald Coast’s “Top Salon”! ec

2011

“Before”the

Top Salons

Presented by: bluewater plastic surgery

TickeTs are $50 and include two drink coupons, heavy hors d’oeuvres and automatic entry to win a three-day/two-night getaway. Visit TopSalonEC.com to purchase your tickets before they sell out.

The Top salon of The emerald coasT wins an advertising campaign developed by Rowland Publishing and a year-long ad campaign in Emerald Coast Magazine. Plus, a portion of the proceeds will benefit the winning salon’s favorite charity. Your favorite salon cannot win unless you attend the event and vote!

PRESENTING SPONSOR bluEwaTER PlaSTIc SuRGERy

2011TOP

EMERALD COAST’S

2011TOP

EMERALD COAST’S


Charity:: Alaqua Animal RefugeSalon :: Lather Lounge Salon | Model :: Suzanne Cicchetti

Charity:: Lighthouse RetreatSalon :: Salon Twist | Model :: Sarah Stewart

Before

Before

2011

“Before”the

Top Salons


Charity:: Locks of Love

Charity:: Junior League Child Clothing Project

Salon :: La Renaissance | Model :: Katheryn R. Morrison

Salon :: Avantgarde Salon & Spa | Model :: Ally Wrann

Before

Before

Presented by: bluewater plastic surgery2011TOP

EMERALD COAST’S


Charity:: Childrens Volunteer Health NetworkSalon :: Fusion Spa, Salon | Model :: Lanier Motes

Charity:: American Cancer SocietySalon :: Girlfriends Beauty Salon | Model :: Lisa Tillman Salon :: Avantgarde Salon & Spa | Model :: Ally Wrann

Before

Before


Charity:: Emerald Coast Wildlife Refuge

Charity:: Wesley Landon’s

Salon :: As You Like It | Model :: Brenda Tuncer

Salon :: The Cutting Room Salon and Spa | Model :: Kelly Humphrey

Before

Before

Presented by: bluewater plastic surgery2011TOP

EMERALD COAST’S


Charity:: Children’s Advocacy CenterSalon :: Ya Ya’s Salon | Model :: Andrea Chambers

Charity:: Children’s Dental WorkSalon :: JS Salon & Studio | Model :: Amanda Fagan

Before

Before


Dana C. Matthews, Michael A. Jones and John W. Hawkins

MatthewsJones & Hawkins,

LLP

s pec i a l a dv e rt i s i ng s ec t ion

Matthews Jones & Hawkins, LLP

4475 Legendary Drive, Destin(850) 837-3662

323 E. John Sims Parkway, Niceville(850) 729-7440

694 Baldwin Ave., DeFuniak Springs(850) 892-5838

DestinLaw.com

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, civil, criminal, family law, and personal injury. The firm has attorneys licensed in federal and state courts in Florida, Mississippi, South Carolina, and Texas.

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 issues.

Tell us about your recent expansion of staff and services. For years Michael A. Jones has served our region with diligence, compassion and integrity, in the field of personal injury, probate and estate planning. So when one finds others that share those same strong values, there is no question about joining forces. That’s why Michael A. Jones has joined Dana C. Matthews

and John W. Hawkins, who have been serving northwest Florida for more than 30 years. We currently have offices in Destin, Niceville and DeFuniak Springs.

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 and we expect that relationship to continue into the future.

http://www.destinlaw.com


s pec i a l a dv e rt i s i ng s ec t ion

Seated, L to R: Cassidy Pickens, Lindsay Miller, Susan Lovelace, Shellie Henderson, Cara McBroom

Standing, L to R: Linda Holman, Glenda Weatherbee, Cortney Eiland, Katie Bonjean (marketing), Terri

Murie (accounting)INSET: Joey LaSalle, New Designer

12870 U.S. Highway 98 W, Miramar Beach(850) 837-5563

[email protected]

LovelaceInteriors

Destin Design Center

What services do you provide? We provide full-service, custom interior design for homeowners from the blueprint stage through to turnkey installation. We also help builders in construction planning for custom homes and renovations, and assist real estate professionals and property management firms in furnishing, updating and staging properties for sale and rental. Awards, honors, recognition: 2010 “Best Interior Design Firm”

on the Emerald Coast; 2005 Coastal Living Idea Houses; 2004 Southern Living Idea House; three-time recipient of the ARTS Award; coverage in Architectural Digest, Veranda and Florida Design.

Has your business or practice expanded recently? In addition to furniture, art and accessories, we now have showroom space dedicated to luxury kitchen appliances, cabinetry, flooring and the

latest in home technology. We also offer upscale consignment services.

How do you measure success? We have been in business for more than two decades, and client satisfaction is always our goal.

2011 “Legal Elite” and “Up-and-Coming” attorneys as recognized by Florida Trend magazine:

(First Row) William E. Bond, Jr., Kenneth B. Bell, and W. Christopher Hart. (Second Row) Scott A. Remington,

Melissa N. VanSickle (Up-and-Coming), Bruce D. Partington, and Scott M. Campbell (Up-and-Coming).

Clark Partington Hart LarryBond & Stackhouse

Pensacola (850) 434.9200

Destin (850) 650.3304

Tallahassee (850) 597.7483

toll free (888) 353.6641

www.cphlaw.com

Clark Partington Hart Larry Bond

& StackhouseLaw Firm

“Our attorneys implement strategies and resolutions in a broad range of practice areas. As the largest firm in Northwest Florida, we’ve been honored to continue serving a growing list of clients from our region and beyond.” What is your firm’s area of specialty?Commercial transactions, real estate, and litigation. We started the practice in 1976 and have focused

primarily on business concerns in Northwest Florida. We believe by representing businesses, we help make our region a better place to live and work. Has your practice expanded recently?Yes. We’ve recently opened a new office in Tallahassee. We welcome the chance to assist our clients and expand to service their growing needs.

How do you measure success?We feel we’ve succeeded when we see our clients’ businesses grow and prosper.


the good lifeFood + Travel + HealTH + Home

eudaimonia*

The Perfect PairShe wasn’t in the market for a husband, but when she was “fixed up” with a spunky, new best friend, Connie Lanigan was thrilled. She and Frenchie,

who is known as the “social director,” had a lot in common: They were both petite, feisty and aging quite gracefully, if they do say so. Thanks to Alaqua

Animal Refuge (AAARFlorida.com), the retired healthcare worker from Choctaw Beach and her husband, Jim, are the happy owners of an 8-year-

old Chihuahua. “She is just a stinker, but we love her,” Lanigan says.Seniors or folks with special needs looking for a pet for service or

companionship can apply for a free pet as part of the Senior Citizen/Special Needs Pet Program. If they feel they are no longer able to care for the pet, it

can return to the no-kill shelter at any time. “I really feel if anyone would like to have a dog they should be able to,” Lanigan says. “Alaqua allows seniors

and their pets to live out their lives together.”Ardent animal lovers, the Lanigans confess they have

gotten more from Alaqua Animal Rescue than just their furry friend. The couple volunteers much of

their free time walking the rescue dogs at Alaqua. “We get a lot of exercise and have met a lot of

nice people. We pretty much eat, sleep and drink animals,” Lanigan says.

— Zandra Wolfgram

*happiness is ...

Photo by Joy Jill


Rut Busters!Five FitneSS centerS on the emerAld coASt thAt will rev up your routine By lorraine CHrisTen

in motion

Photo by Shelly Swanger

spinning and kickboxing still pack a punch. And tread-mills, ellipticals and weight rooms will always be in good form. But a new breed of workouts is determined to get you working on your fitness in and out of the gym. On

the heels of popular workouts like Zumba and boot camp, a whole new crop of fun and challenging ways to shape up, slim down and get moving is hitting the Emerald Coast. Here’s a peek at a few of the latest trends.

Run circles around your heart rate with the resurrected ’50s craze of hula hooping. This fun fad is getting a facelift with the help of celebrities like actress Marisa Tomei, Beyoncé and first lady Mi-chelle Obama taking the hoop for a spin and endorsing its get-fit attributes. The hula hoop’s portability, affordability and ease of use make it accessible for anyone to sneak in a workout at almost any locale.

Fort Walton Beach resident Kayla Joseph is giving the booming hula hooping trend a twirl with her new Hoop nastics classes at Emerald City Gymnastics. “My class starts with learning the basic technique and just getting comfortable with the hula hoop,” says Joseph. “Then, I

move on to incorporating yoga, pilates, ballet and gymnastics, us-ing the hoop as balance.” This overall cardio workout not only pro-duces a toned core and flat abs but lots of smiles and giggles, too.

Want the benefits of pumping iron without having to lift weights? At Destin Health and Fitness, instructor Glenn Cruz whips soft bodies into lean mean fitness machines with his twice-weekly ket-tle bell training classes. First used by Russian weight lifters more than a century ago, kettle bell training has become a popular class and fitness tool at most gyms over the past few years. The anat-omy of the kettle bell itself — with its handle placed above the weighted ball — challenges your ability to set the weight in motion

and engages the core for an explosive total body workout. The kettle bell workout couples traditional weightlifting exercises like dead lifts and presses with classic kettle bell moves like the basic swing. Cruz also offers personal training and kettle bell beach classes.

Touted for its scalable fitness program, Crossfit seeks to challenge both the highly trained combat soldier and the new mom. The Destin affiliate of this worldwide pro-gram — Destin Crossfit — employs an inclusive method

Emerald Coast beauties melissa Brettingham-moore, sara snedal and angela ragsdale know how to “hoop it up” and have fun when it comes to staying fit.


2 0 0 9 & 2 0 1 0

The Village of Baytowne Wharf™

AWARD OF EXCELLENCE Wine Spectator

BEST OF THE EMERALD COAST Emerald Coast Magazine

RESTAURANT OF THE YEAR NWFL Daily News

Coastal Cuisine with a New Orleans Flair

850-622-0760bistrobijouxdestin.com Best French

Restaurant

of working out by varying the load and intensity of each exercise based on the in-dividual’s ability. “The beauty of the pro-gram is that everyone can do it, and once they get in and try it, they love it,” says co-owner Kathy Rivers. Rivers and her husband Bert Rodriquez also use their ex-tensive backgrounds in martial arts, boxing and other forms of fitness training to tailor personalized programs.

If the movie “Black Swan” has you dreaming of a dancer’s lean, toned body sans the bloody toes, try one of these bal-let-inspired workouts — Ballet Sculpt & Tone and Pure Barre. Ballet Sculpt & Tone class at the Seaside yoga and dance center, The Studio, incorporates classic ballet moves with pilates to strengthen the core and tone the entire body. At Pure Barre in

Santa Rosa Beach, the motto is lift, burn and tone as choreographed isometric exer-cises are performed at a ballet barre. Focus-ing on the abs, hips, glutes and arms, each move is designed to taper and lift the body, giving a longer, leaner appearance.

If you’re a purist, try the Northwest Florida Ballet’s adult ballet classes. Whether you’ve never taken ballet or want to revive your inner ballerina, you won’t want to miss the beginner and intermedi-ate classes offered in their beautiful down-town Fort Walton Beach location. The two-story brick building hums with the sounds of classical music and dancers’ feet as they move along the marley floors mak-ing the experience even more enchanting. And, the best part of being an adult in bal-let classes — no bun required. Tutus are optional. ec

Run circles around your heart rate with the resurrected ’50s

craze of hula hooping. This fun fad is getting

a facelift with the help of celebrities like actress Marisa Tomei,

Beyoncé and first lady Michelle Obama taking the hoop for a

spin and endorsing its get-fit attributes.


Are You Vacillating on Vaccinating? medicAl expertS diScuSS the BeneFitS oF immunizAtionS By andi maHoney

f.y.i

arents spend countless hours cautioning their children that the stove is hot, keeping little fingers from electrical outlets and absolutely forbidding their teen girls to shut the bedroom door when their boyfriends come over. Their primary job is to protect their children from the endless threats that could

harm them. Some things are not as cut-and-dried as running with scissors, and one topic that causes parents unnecessary anxiety is whether or not to vaccinate their child.

Immunizations stimulate the immune system to form antibodies that will fight infection and help protect against certain bacteria that are becom-ing resistant to antibiotics. There are currently vaccinations for 16 different diseases, as well as numerous misconceptions that go along with them.

As summer comes to a close, the long list of things to do to prepare for going back to school is beckoning. Every state now requires proof of immu-nization for certain diseases for admission to school, and the pediatrician’s office is buzzing come August. Some parents are concerned that vaccines will overwhelm their child’s immune system or that exposure to these vi-ruses may increase the chances their child will contract the virus.

“It is theoretically impossible to overwhelm the immune system with

the vaccines in a healthy child. The immune system can handle a thousand different an-tigens a day. Even when a child receives four different vaccines in one day, he is only receiving approximately 100 different anti-gens,” said Dr. Rickey Viator, board certi-fied pediatrician for Sacred Heart Medical Group. “Additionally, splitting up the vac-cines in order to decrease side effects does not work, and by delaying vaccines you in-crease the chance your child could actually get one of these illnesses.”

According to Dr. Viator, there are also concerns regarding the aluminum or Thi-merasol content in vaccines. Thimerasol has not been used in manufacturing pediatric vaccines since 2001. Also, the aluminum exposure from vaccines is less than the alu-minum exposure your child would get from aluminum cookware.

“Despite the studies linking autism to the MMR vaccine being completely refuted by repeat studies, as well as the original au-thor saying he falsified his data in publish-ing those articles, this debate continues,” said Dr. Lalitha Vadlamani-Simmers, board certified pediatrician for White-Wilson Medical Center. “When the cause of a hor-rible childhood medical condition cannot be identified, there is finger pointing.”

Today, childhood vaccination levels are at a record high in the United States while ill-ness or death from diseases such as tetanus, measles and mumps are at all time lows.

“Vaccines are the single greatest medical achievement in the past 100 years. Prior to the current childhood immunization sched-ule, over 50 percent of children died before their first birthday. Think about that,” Vad-lamani-Simmers said. “Childhood vaccina-tions allow me the luxury of worrying about

when my son will have his heart bro-ken versus if he will live long enough to make it to first grade.”

It is true that not all people show the same level of an immune response to vaccines. If the majority of people are vaccinated against these diseases and more than 90 percent of them have an adequate immune response, then the overall exposure risk is greatly reduced.

As summer draws to a close and it is time to schedule annual physical exams and vaccinations, parents can rest assured that these things will help protect their child. Dr. Viator summa-rized: “Not having your child immu-nized is like not wearing a seat belt. Most of the time you can get away with it, but the one time you do not, you pay the price.” ec

Children attending Florida schools are required to be prop-erly vaccinated for the following: polio, varicella (chick-enpox), mumps, measles, rubella, diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, hepatitis B and Haemophilus influenza B.

strongly recom-mended immuni-zations include: Hepatitis a, meningococcal meningitis, Human Papilloma Virus and the annual influenza vaccine.

Source: Florida De-partment of Health


TRAVERTINEGRANITE

SLATESTONE

TILE

ALL PHASES OFREMODELING & MAINTENANCE

(850) 259-892456 Talon Ct.Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459Nicky [email protected]

Taxi & Shuttle Service

www.654TAXI.com

850.654.TAXI8 5 0 . 6 5 4 . 8 2 9 4

Local Service Providers of The Emerald Coast


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 BeachBasmati’sasian. Asian/Asian-inspired meat, seafood, poultry and vegetarian dishes. open mon–Sat 4 p.m. for sushi, 5 p.m. for dinner. 3295 W. Hwy. 30A, 850-267-3028. $$$ d

Grecian 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

destinaeGean restaurantgreek. Sip an ouzo at the beautiful stone bar before savoring the flavors of the mediterranean at this authentic Greek restaurant. Breakfast 8 a.m.–11 a.m. lunch 11 a.m.–4 p.m. dinner 4 p.m.–9 p.m. 11225 Emerald Coast Pkwy., 850-460-2728. $$ B l d

aJ’s seafood & oyster Bar ★ seafood. choose from fresh local seafood, sandwiches, pasta, chicken or specialty dishes like the oysters eugene or rockefeller. open daily 11 a.m. 116 E. Hwy. 98, 850-837-1913. $$ l d another Broken eGG café ★Breakfast. Breakfast all day, plus sandwiches, patty melts, specials, soups, salads and desserts. open daily 7 a.m.–2 p.m. closed mondays. (open memorial and labor days.) 979 E. Hwy. 98, Suite F, 850-650-0499. $ B

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 of 2008, 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

carraBBa’s italian Grill ★italian. carrabba’s blends warm italian hospitality with family recipes handed down for four generations. mon–thu 4–10 p.m. Fri–Sat 4–11 p.m. Sun 11:30a.m.–9 p.m. 10562 Emerald Coast Pkwy., 850-837-1140. $$ l d ciao Bella pizza da GuGlielmoitalian. Authentic italian pizza, pasta, salads and more. open daily 11 a.m. 29 E. Hwy. 98, Silver Sands, 850-654-3040. $$ l d

the 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 2010 winner Breakfast lunch dinner outdoor dining live music

inexpensivemoderately expensiveexpensive

★Bld

$$$

$$$

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 dave’s doGs ★american. when only a hot dog will do, dave’s serves it up right, grilling the bun on each side. open mon–thu 10 a.m.–9 p.m. Fri 10 a.m.–10 p.m. Sun 11 a.m.–7 p.m. Destin Commons, 850-240-3353. $ 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

fishBar american. wide array of seafood, steak and chicken dishes. daily 11 a.m.–10 p.m. Sunday Brunch 10:30 a.m.– 2 p.m. 414 harbor Blvd., 850-424-5566. $$ l d fudpucker’s american. Burgers and sandwiches, and specialties like the Fried Fudpucker (triggerfish). open 11 a.m.–10 p.m. 20001 Emerald Coast Pkwy., 850-654-4200. $$ 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

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 Boathouseseafood. 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

lucky snapperseafood. Family-style, open-air overlooks destin harbor. open daily 11 a.m. 76 E. Hwy. 98, Destin, 850-654-0900. $$ l 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

dining

*Limit one treatment per guest - some exclusions may apply

2011TOP

EMERALD COAST’S NO

MIN

EE

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Discover more locations at www.BeFusion.com

Located at Grand Boulevard

850 654-2444


To us, living life to the fullest on the emerald coast means filling up one tasty bite at a time. here are the few

things we recently savored.

Breakfast it’s tempting to live on sponge cake and watch the sun bake all the tourists covered with oil when in pensacola Beach. when we dined at Jimmy Buffet’s margaritaville Beach hotel restaurant – Frank and lola love PensaCola – we filled up on the WesTern omeleT, served with new potatoes, sautéed with red peppers and onion, and fresh whole wheat toast. our meal was so filling, we skipped lunch and hit the expansive beaches at the Gulf island national Seashore. now that is a great way to start the day. $10

Lunch there are few things at a bar that get our attention that are not served over ice, but the CHeese Bar aT Wine World in Grand Boulevard has turned our head. the key WesT sandWiCH is chicken, bacon, tomato and havarti cheese on a pressed cuban roll served with key lime mayonnaise, $8. though we didn’t have wine with our lunch, there are plenty to sample by the glass. here, here to “cheesy” bars.

Appetizer this Bud’s for you. we raise a (margarita) glass to Bud & alley’s WaTerFronT resTauranT and rooFToP Bar in Seaside in honor of its 25th anniversary this year. if you don’t go to toast the sunset, then certainly go for the seaside sWeeT PoTaTo Fries. the potatoes are soaked overnight, thickly sliced and then oven baked in a light tempura batter. they are served with a dijon-mayo dipping sauce. $7. how sweet it is!

Dinner the godfather of italian cuisine has extended his name to Fort walton Beach. FaT Clemenza’s has opened a second location in uptown Station. the CHiCken marsala is sautéed in cream and sweet marsala with mushrooms and fresh grated orange zest, served with germeli pasta. we could eat this savory dish every monday, tuesday, wednesday … . $18

Photo by Zandra Wolfgram

on the menu

seaside sWeeT PoTaTo Fries


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. destin commons and Sandestin. mon–thu 7 a.m.–9 p.m. Fri–Sat 7 a.m.–10 p.m. Sun 7 a.m.–8 p.m. 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

reGatta Bay Golf and country cluB american. located inside regatta Bay Golf & country club. open to the public 11 a.m.–2 p.m. variety of salads and sandwiches. Full bar. Specializing in on- and off-site catering including weddings, receptions and special events. 465 Regatta Bay Blvd., 850-337-8888. $ B l d

ruth’s chris steak 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 11am-9pm, Fri-Sat 11am-11pm. 100 Harbor Blvd., 850-460-2271. $$ l d

JAPANESE STEAKHOUSE & SUSHI BAR

850.650.4688 or 850.650.468934745 Emerald Coast Parkway / Destin

850.351.1006 Located in the Village of Baytowne Wharf ™

18 Hibachi Tables Sushi Bar • Private Dining

SushiTake Out

Authentic Japanese Cuisine

dining 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

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 BeachBay 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

BiG city american Bistro ★american. this little gem has big charm, a vibrant vibe and amazing food, not to mention great service. Big city is open for lunch and dinner and serves an award-winning brunch on Sundays. lunch tues–Sat 11 a.m.–2:30 p.m. dinner tues–Sat 5 p.m.–close. Brunch Sun 11 a.m.–2:30 p.m. 171 SE Brooks St., 850-664-0664. $$ B 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

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 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

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. 55 Clayton Ln., 850-231-9020. $$ l d

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 Beachanother 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

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

faJitas Grillmexican. the freshest ingredients and best-tasting mexican food in northwest Florida. try one of our many flavored margaritas. open Sun–thu 11 a.m.–9:30 p.m. Fri–Sat 11 a.m.–10:30 p.m. 12889 Hwy. 98., 850-269-7788. $ 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. Holiday Plaza/Hwy. 98, 850-650-5980. $$ l d

finz Beachside Grilleamerican. wide range of seafood and American dishes. catering available. open seasonally. call for hours. Beachside at Sandestin, 850-267-4800. $$ l d

fleminG’s prime steakhouse & wine Bar ★steak and more. this award-winning restaurant offers prime steaks, chops, chicken, seafood, fresh salads and a variety of unique sides and desserts served in a comfortable but elegant atmosphere. Featuring 100 wines by the glass. open mon–thu 5–10 p.m. Fri–Sat 5–11 p.m. Sun 4–9 p.m. 600 Grand Blvd., 850-269-0830. $$ d

Johnny rocketsamerican. enjoy a smooth milkshake with your burger and fries as you jam to the tunes on the jukebox. mon–thu 11 a.m.–9 p.m. Fri–Sat 11 a.m.–10 p.m. Sun 11 a.m.–7 p.m. 625 Grand Blvd., Suite 107, 850-650-3100. $ l 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

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 restau-rant. 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


Tailgate Grub. in the South, fall means football, friends and food. Serve up some winning tailgate recipes this football season by letting your favorite team inspire your menu. Florida State university fans love to sink their teeth into boneless Buffalo wings with blue cheese dip. ole miss alums tackle their guests’ appetites with pulled-pork barbecue sandwiches, while lSu grads boast about their cajun shrimp boil. university of Florida fans say a grilled flatbread pizza satisfies a multitude of tastes with its endless variety of toppings. university of Alabama devotees

say boiled peanuts are a football party hit. “But we also love finger-licking ribs,” says ’Bama fan Julie turner, who picks up Dreamland ribs, a favorite in tuscaloosa, Ala., to bring to her tailgate par-ties. if you can’t get to dreamland, they will deliver to your doorstep. “And you must sop up the last drop of dreamland’s famous bar-becue sauce with white bread,” says turner.Auburn tiger alumna Brandy

Barrett never attends a tailgate party without her “mexicorn dip,” a mexican corn dip served with tor-tilla chips or corn chips. “whether watching the game at home or on campus at your tailgate, this mexican corn dip is always a crowd pleaser,” Barrett says. — Wendy O. Dixon

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diningseaGar’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

nicevilleBeef ‘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

Giuseppi’s wharfseafood. proudly serving steaks, pasta and sushi. newly remodeled. open 11 a.m.–10 p.m. 821 Bayshore Dr., 850-678-4229. $$ l d

trade windsitalian. Fish, shrimp, scallops, clams and mussels combined in a marinara or white wine sauce with pasta; thin-crust pizzas. 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

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

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

santa rosa Golf & Beach cluBamerican. 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 BeachanGelina’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

Gravel roadamerican. cozy bistro serving chicken, fish, beef and pasta. lunch 11 a.m.–3 p.m. mon–Sat. dinner served at 5 p.m. 4935 E. Hwy. 30A, 850-534-0930. $$ 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

seaGrill american. Seafood, steak, and sushi. happy hour 5–7 p.m. & 9 p.m.–close. tues–Sun 5–10 p.m. 10343 e. hwy 30A, 850-231-4050. $$ 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

For even more dining options in the Emerald Coast, visit emeraldcoastmagazine.com.


Making FriendsAnd keeping them treasuredBy zandra WolFGram

the last word

i still get a funny feeling in my stomach when fall comes around. The excitement of gathering school supplies and brand new shoes were never enough to quiet the dread of a new classroom full of faces I didn’t recognize. Compounding this angst was

my frequent “new girl” complex. Being a military depen-dent meant changing schools mid-year in first, fourth and seventh grade — sometimes more than once. As my own 9-year-old navigates her quest for friendship, I’ve been thinking a lot about mine.

I remember going to school in kindergarten with a note pinned to my green-sashed dress. It read: “Hi! My name is …”, which my mom filled in. I didn’t mind the note. I was too distracted by the fact that the black plum I thought I had carefully handled in an Alliga-tor sandwich bag was now mashed on the front of my dress. I didn’t meet any friends that day, and I never took another plum to school.

Once I did make fast friends, I sometimes overdid it. When I was 8 years-old I lived in Illinois and I had two best friends: Cricket and Terri. Inevitably there was an “odd-girl out” from time to time. When I moved on my 10th birthday, to say I was devastated was an understatement. We didn’t move to our new house in our new town right away. Instead, we lived with my grandmother in Michigan for a while. It must have been a long while, because I was enrolled in the local grade school. I remember walking there from her house and coming home for lunch. I remember how comforting it was to eat

hot boiled potatoes and gravy off Grandma’s blue china. I remember the teacher: Mr. Dryer. He had dandruff. But I don’t remember be-ing there long enough to make any friends.

When I turned 11 my mother gave me an address book for my birthday. It had Holly Hobbie on the cover and a saying on the front: “Treasure your friends, new and old. One is silver, and the other is gold.” She encouraged me to write down my friends and their phone numbers to stay in touch between moves. She never had a shortage of stamps. Sometimes, she even let me make a long-distance phone call.

Recently, my two best friends from grade school found me on Fa-cebook. It turns out Terri lives in Tallahassee; and Cricket in Pensa-cola. I was thrilled. I reconnected with Terri over dinner while she was in town on vacation. Though she didn’t show up in roller skates, 35 years of separation didn’t matter after one hug. It was powerful listening to her recall so many details about my family and child-hood. I didn’t remember my second oldest sister babysat her. I didn’t remember her father took my oldest sister’s wedding photos. I cer-tainly did not recall she had a crush on my brother. Her eyes welled up several times that evening revealing just how much my big, bois-terous family meant to her. The visit was heartening.

As adults, we don’t have the luxury of pinning notes to our chest that invite people to be our friends. Some of us still hope to find true friends that seamlessly meld into our lives. Until then, if you get that funny feeling this fall, a new pair of “school” shoes just might help you take a step in the right direction toward some friendly faces. Who knows, maybe you’ll be lucky enough to cross paths with a fa-miliar face who knew you back when. ec

school pictures of my childhood best friends in 1976 (l to r) me, terri and thelma a.k.a. Cricket. (Below) With a trusty note pinned to my green-sashed dress and plum snack in hand, my little sister helps me document my first day of school.

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Emerald Coast Magazine August/September 2011

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Transcript of Emerald Coast Magazine August/September 2011