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Protecting One of Our Community’s Greatest Assets: The Choctawhatchee Bay By Brian L. Underwood, Breakfast | Lunch | Espresso CBEP Executive Director, 985 Highway 98, Destin and Lori Smith, Publisher (850) 424 6777 | CafeDestin.com One of our area’s most beautiful, coveted and useful Newly Reopened! See coupon pg. 43. resources has been experienc- ing significant challenges— ones that affect water quality, natural systems and benefits Saving the provided by our own Choc- tawhatchee Bay. And, wheth- er you think about it or not, Sea Turtles this massive body of water is By Rita L. Sherwood woven into our everyday lives Whether you’re a local or not, as we come and go…to work, one major issue with our beautiful to fish, to boat, to play, to re- beaches here on the Emerald Coast ceive goods, to experience is helping the sea turtles. If you’ve magnificent views, nature and been to the beach, I bet you’ve ei- wildlife, and the list goes on. ther seen an area roped off for a sea

A defining characteris- PHOTOS BY CHELSEA CONLEY turtle’s nest, seen a sign to fill in any tic of the coastal reaches of holes on the beach, or maybe even the Choctawhatchee River will bring continuing chang- our region, the contributions encountered a volunteer asking you and Bay watershed has been es in land use and increasing from this natural environment to pick up your trash. growth and development in demands on wastewater and to our economy and quality We all know the phrase: “Clean, our region. Our population stormwater management sys- of life cannot be overstated. dark, flat.” Clean: We can all do has increased significantly tems. (source: 850 Business) Ecologically diverse, the water- our part to protect the sea turtles by over the last several decades Encompassing more than shed, land areas that drain into keeping the beach clean by remov- with a projected 21.24 percent 5,000 square miles, the Choc- the Bay, includes one of Flor- ing all of your belongings, including growth over the next 20 years. tawhatchee Bay watershed ida’s largest alluvial rivers, an trash when you leave the beach; leave Some of the greatest growth extends through six counties no trace. Dark: Artificial light dis- is in Okaloosa, Walton, Santa in Northwest Florida and 10 BAY turbs nesting sea turtles and hatch- Rosa and Bay counties, which counties in Alabama. Within continued on page 2 C.A.R.E. continued on page 2

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MaryCCIM, CRB, CRS, GRI, RRS, Anne e-PRO. Windes www.Destin-Real-Estate.com | 210A Harbor Blvd. | 850.837.2211 Page 2 Destin Life www.mydestinlife.com June 2021

Community

BAY To help preserve the Bay organized technical advisory, continued from page 1 qualities we hold dear, the Choc- education and outreach com- tawhatchee Bay Estuary Pro- mittees comprised of region- expansive riverine floodplain, gram (CBEP) was recently es- al partners, who provide local a 129-square mile estuary, tid- tablished as a community-based, knowledge and information on al marshes and seagrass beds non-regulatory organization to watershed issues. “We are hop- as well as coastal dune lakes, coordinate stewardship initia- ing to build our partnerships to Floridan aquifer springs, barrier tives for the Choctawhatchee include a Community Advisory islands and longleaf-wiregrass Bay and its watershed, aspiring Committee and a Business and forests. It also includes some to protect and enhance these Industry Committee comprised of Northwest Florida’s fastest valuable assets for our enjoy- tance award to the Gulf Con- vation and Management Plan of business owners, land owners growing communities, including ment and benefit. These include sortium and Okaloosa County, (CCMP) is currently being draft- or other members of the com- ours, as well as extensive public restoring water quality, restor- on behalf of the Estuary Pro- ed for the Choctawhatchee Bay, munity interested in becoming and private conservation lands. ing and conserving its habitat, gram, consistent with criteria River and headwaters. Consis- involved in the Estuary Program The water resources that replenishing and protecting set out in the RESTORE Act tent with the U.S. EPA’s Nation- and the CCMP development,” comprise the Choctawhatchee living coastal and marine re- at 33 U.S.C. 1321(t)(3)(B)(i). al Estuary Program standards, says Chelsea Conley, CBEP River and Bay provide numer- sources, enhancing community Governance is provided by the the Choctawhatchee’s CCMP Outreach Specialist. ous functions critical to our resilience and revitalizing our Choctawhatchee Bay Estuary will highlight priority resource If you would like to learn quality of life. The watershed’s diverse coastal economy. Grants Coalition Board of Directors, groups along with strategies to more about the Choctawhatchee wetlands and floodplains store and funds raised allow groups represented by County Com- mitigate many of the known Bay Estuary Program, visit and regulate stormwater run- who have long worked on these missioners from Okaloosa, Wal- challenges. Some of these strat- MyOkaloosa.com/cbec/pro- off, protecting water quality, assets to coordinate their efforts, ton, Holmes and Washington egies include best practices for gram_overview.html or Face- providing flood protection, and educate, steward, strengthen Counties in Florida. Other or- community resilience, water book.com/Choctawhatchee- recharging aquifers and potable and maintain this vibrant con- ganizations represented on the quality protection, natural re- BayEstuaryProgram. For water supplies. Its lakes, streams tribution to our economy. Board include the State of Al- sources management and land additional information, contact and coastal waters sustain nu- In 2019, the Choctawhatchee abama’s Choctawhatchee, Pea use planning. Chelsea Conley, Outreach Spe- merous species of fish, shellfish Bay Estuary Program was the and Yellow Rivers Watershed Initial planning strategies cialist, at 850-609-5390 or ccon- and wildlife. Its springs provide beneficiary of grant funding Management Authority, the have been successful, yielding [email protected]. windows to the aquifer, and its from The Nature Conservancy. Choctawhatchee Basin Alliance positive stakeholder engage- wetlands and coastal barriers Additional Program funds have and Eglin Air Force Base as an ment. Reflecting the National provide resiliency against storms been received through a federal ex-officio participant. Estuary Program model, the and coastal change. RESTORE Act financial assis- A Comprehensive Conser- Choctawhatchee program has DESTIN

Published Monthly C.A.R.E. marine animal rescue and reha- Although every effort is made Mailed FREE to the communities bilitation—encouraging aware- to release the turtle back to the continued from page 1 of Destin, FL (32541) ness through public education ocean, occasionally a sea turtle lings; so, turn off all lights on or as well as opportunities for lo- is deemed non-releasable due to P.O. Box 1424 near the beach. Flat: When you cals to actively participate. medical or physical limitations. Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459 leave the beach each day, please If you break it down further, These turtles are given a perma- Editor & Publisher to conserve is to ensure the fu- nent home and full-time care at knock down any sandcastles and Lori Leath Smith fill in any holes. itation for many years through ture of marine animals and the Gulfarium C.A.R.E. Center. [email protected] We’re so passionate about the the C.A.R.E. Center. Devel- their habitats. To act is to play Along with the turtles being sea turtles that we even have a lo- oped in 2015 as a non-profit to an active role in marine con- rehabilitated for release, the Director, Advertising Sales cal celebrity named Theo. Who facilitate and further its contin- servation. To rehabilitate is to Gulfarium’s C.A.R.E. Center is Scott Miller is Theo? Theo is a lovable, plush ued coastal conservation efforts, support marine animal rescue, also permanently caring for two [email protected] turtle with a mission—to help the program has helped to reha- recovery and release. And to ed- Loggerhead sea turtles. They protect and sustain the threat- bilitate and release various spe- ucate is to inspire awareness for both were stranded along the Production & Layout ened sea turtle population along cies of sea turtles found on the marine conservation issues. beaches of the Emerald Coast Kim Harper the Gulf Coast of Florida. “I’m Gulf Coast, from the Logger- Rehabilitation starts when originally and have now been Contributing Writers a little turtle on a big mission. head, Green, Kemp’s Ridley, to a sea turtle patient arrives; it is deemed non-releasable due to Rita Sherwood I’m here to save my fellow threat- the Leatherback. Through the evaluated by animal care and medical or physical limitations. ened sea turtles,” says Theo. years, hundreds of sea turtles veterinary staff using guidelines On the website Gulfarium.com, To Advertise One of Theo’s favorite plac- have been rehabilitated and re- from the Florida Fish and Wild- click on “Meet Our Animals” 850.688.9886 es is our very own Gulfarium on leased back into the wild by the life Conservation Commission. and learn about rescued sea Destin Life assumes no financial liability for errors Okaloosa Island known as the Gulfarium. These guidelines give staff the turtles and other animals that or omissions in printed advertising and reserves the right to reject/edit advertising or editorial Gulfarium Marine Adventure In fact, the C.A.R.E. Cen- necessary information needed call the Gulfarium home. Also, submissions. Park, where it been active in ma- ter’s mission is to act as a beacon to evaluate a method for reha- © Copyright 2021 Destin Life rine animal rescue and rehabil- for coastal conservation through bilitation, recovery and release. Continued on page 9

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Community Meet Our Hometown Hero: Geoff Speyrer Don’t Give Up! Give Back By Lori Leath Smith Missouri. “I got zero sleep pri- without community support for Warriors to support a veter- While incarcerated, Des- or to the event taking off and it from businesses such as Okaloo- an K9 team and to help veter- tin resident and Army veteran was all worth it. I truly wouldn’t sa Gas,” says Sheila. “We had ans themselves. “If I can do this Geoff Speyrer never dreamed have it any other way,” says over 15 businesses alone to help no matter how bad life can be, he’d one day be a champion of Geoff. “I stayed mindful and support the event shirt which you can do it, too,” says Geoff. bringing hope and awareness to present throughout the entire got us started and then held the “He is the example of a great veteran suicide. But now he is! stay. I never wore headphones fundraiser on Facebook.” American soldier,” Sheila says. Sadly, 22 veterans and ac- to get out of pain or get in the “Geoff is representative of To learn more about Healing tive-duty members per day take zone. I simply just talked to my Don’t Give Up! He has a huge Paws for Warriors, visit www. their lives thinking there is no friends. I’m so grateful for all of heart, and wants to give back healingpawsforwarriors.org/ hope. you!” to his local community,” Shelia or at info@healingpawsforwar- But Geoff has set out to “We couldn’t have done it says. “He chose Healing Paws riors.org. change this, showing that there IS help and hope, by raising money for Healing Paws for Warriors through his physical endurance—no small feat for a man who sustained injuries PHOTO HEALING PAWS FOR WARRIORS from being near explosives while serving in the military. Beginning at midnight Fri- The medical care he received day, May 21, at Harbor Tavern adversely affected his health, in Destin, Geoff and fellow cy- which resulted in a life-long in- clist friends made four loops by jury due to lower leg trauma bike around Destin and Scenic and surgery. Hwy. 98 for a total of 100 miles! RITA L. SHERWOOD He was told his chances of Then at noon on Saturday, he running again were reduced and several other runners made 850.376.3663 and he began to experience the one more loop around Destin challenges of Post-Traumatic by foot, racking up a 26.2-mile Stress (PTSD) and Traumatic marathon. And last, but certain- Brain Injury (TBI). After leav- ly not least, at approximately ing the military and becoming 9 p.m., Geoff flipped a 200-lb. a fugitive, Geoff spent the next tractor tire around the Destin 13 years in and out of incar- Elementary School track for one ceration and treatment facili- mile, where he was joined again ©2021 BHH Affiliates, LLC. An independently owned and operated franchisee ofBHH Affiliates, LLC. Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices and the Berkshire Hathaway HomeSer- ties. However, Geoff says it was by 25 to 30 people who cheered vices symbol are registered service marks of Columbia Insurance Company, a Berkshire Hathaway affiliate. Equal Housing Opportunity. during these darkest years that him on in the dark. He finished he turned his life around instead the challenge at roughly 10:45 of becoming a statistic and tak- p.m. Saturday, May 22. “As the ing his own life. Geoff found tire continued to flip with each health and wellness as a tool to turn of a “thud,” bystanders overcome this adversity. were reminded that he is an And run again, he did! Geoff American soldier who sacrificed races to give back to his commu- and proudly served his country,” nity after battling the addiction, says Sheila Hale, Healing Paws PTSD and suicidal thoughts. for Warriors co-founder/deputy He uses his strength and endur- director. “Today he served his ance to help other veterans fac- community by providing aware- ing the same challenges through ness to end veteran suicide, Healing Paws for Warriors, a encouraging veterans to push local veteran-founded nonprof- through as there are resources it that provides trained service for help.” ALL of these amaz- dogs at no cost to veterans who ing feats were accomplished in a are faced with post-traumatic 24-hour period! stress, traumatic brain injury or You might ask why Geoff military sexual trauma. would go through this grueling For the second year in a row, ordeal. “I know what it feels like Geoff completed a grueling 24- to have no hope. It’s all about hour physical challenge and ran giving back HOPE to these men 26.2 miles, biked 100 miles and and women who suffer,” he says. raised approximately $12,000 Geoff says his friends are for vets in one day! The event is what kept him going. “I have called SET 22—the SET stands some of the most diverse, for strength, endurance and amazing, supportive people as training and the 22 refers to the friends!” Many flew in and ran number of veterans who take with him from all over even as their lives every day. far as New York, New Jersey and Page 4 Destin Life www.mydestinlife.com June 2021 Community

Cali's To Do In Destin! JUNE 2021 ••••••••• 4 ••••••••• Teen Night | 10pm | Fudpuckers ••••••••• 15 ••••••••• Karaoke Night | 8pm | World Of ••••••••• 25 ••••••••• Locals On The Harbor | 4pm | ••••••••• 9 ••••••••• Singo Music Bingo | 5:30pm | LuLu’s Beer Destin Free Beach Bonfire | 5pm | Royal Boathouse Oyster Bar Bonfire on the Beach | 6pm | The Destin ••••••••• 20 ••••••••• Palm Grille j.Leon Gallery Open House | 5pm | Bay Karaoke | 6pm | Enlightened Studios Beach Church Service | 7:30am | Name That Tune | 6:30pm | Village j.Leon Gallery Rock’n Bingo | 7pm | FATBoys Destin FWB Crab Trap Destin Door Music Hall Free Beach Bonfire | 5pm | Royal Free Concert Series | 7pm | Village Trivia Night | 6:30pm | Village Door Church at Crab Island | 10am | Crab Karaoke Night | 8pm | Village Door Palm Grille of Baytowne Wharf Music Hall Island Music Hall Karaoke Night | 8pm | Village Door Open Mic Night | 7pm | Enlightened Fat Tuesdays Celebration | 6:30pm | Food Truck Festival | 11am | Mattie Latin Night | 9pm | Bric a Brac Music Hall Studios Harborwalk Village Kelly Arts Foundation ••••••••• 26 ••••••••• Latin Night | 9pm | Bric a Brac Trivia | 7pm | World of Beer Trivia Night | 7pm | Village Door at Karaoke | 6pm | Village Door Farmers Market | 8am-1pm | FWB ••••••••• 5 ••••••••• Fireworks | 9pm | Okaloosa Island Seascape Restaurant (Baytowne) Landing Farmers Market | 8am-1pm | FWB ••••••••• 10 ••••••••• Game Night | 7pm | Landsharks Pizza Karaoke | 7pm | The Palms Bistro Farmers Market | 9am-1pm | Grand Landing Sunset Party | 5pm | Rhumcay Music Bingo | 7pm | World of Beer Sunday Cinema | 8pm | Village of Boulevard Farmers Market | 9am-1pm | Grand Luau Beach Party | 5pm | Al’s Beach Boomin’ Tuesday Fireworks | Baytowne Wharf Karaoke Night | 6pm | Village Door Boulevard Club and Burger Bar 7:15pm | Village of Baytowne Wharf ••••••••• 21 ••••••••• Music Hall Karaoke Night | 6pm | Village Door Karaoke Night | 6pm | Village Door Teen Night | 10pm | Fudpuckers Free Beach Bonfire/SIN Night | Rock The Dock | 7pm | Harborwalk Music Hall Music Hall ••••••••• 16 ••••••••• 5pm | Royal Palm Grille Village Rock The Dock | 7pm | Harborwalk Live Music | 6pm | Mattie Kelly Arts Bonfire on the Beach | 6pm | The Pirate Davy Show | 5pm | Al’s Beach Karaoke Night | 8pm | World Of Village Foundation Bay Club and Burger Bar Beer Destin Karaoke Night | 8pm | World Of Little Black Dress Ladies Night | Rock’n Bingo | 7pm | FATBoys Destin HydroFlight Monday | 6:30pm | ••••••••• 27 ••••••••• Beer Destin 6pm | Palms Bistro Free Concert Series | 7pm | Village Village of Baytowne Wharf Beach Church Service | 7:30am | ••••••••• 6 ••••••••• All American Thursdays | 6:30pm | of Baytowne Wharf Silent Disco | 7pm | Harborwalk Crab Trap Destin Harborwalk Village Open Mic Night | 7pm | Enlightened Village Church at Crab Island | 10am | Crab Dueling Pianos | 7pm | The Palms Studios Music Bingo | 7pm | Pallet Bar and Island Bistro Trivia | 7pm | World of Beer Grill Karaoke | 6pm | Village Door Magical Thursdays | 7pm | Village of Fireworks | 9pm | Okaloosa Island HydroFlight Monday | 8:30pm | Restaurant (Baytowne) Baytowne Wharf ••••••••• 17 ••••••••• Village of Baytowne Wharf Sunday Cinema | 8pm | Village of Fireworks | 9pm | Harborwalk Village Sunset Party | 5pm | Rhumcay ••••••••• 22 ••••••••• Baytowne Wharf ••••••••• 11 ••••••••• Luau Beach Party | 5pm | Al’s Beach Singo Music Bingo | 5:30pm | LuLu’s ••••••••• 28 ••••••••• Free Beach Bonfire | 5pm | Royal Club and Burger Bar Destin Free Beach Bonfire/SIN Night | Palm Grille Karaoke Night | 6pm | Village Door Karaoke | 6pm | Enlightened Studios 5pm | Royal Palm Grille Karaoke Night | 8pm | Village Door Music Hall FWB Pirate Davy Show | 5pm | Al’s Beach Music Hall Live Music | 6pm | Mattie Kelly Arts Trivia Night | 6:30pm | Village Door Club and Burger Bar Beach Church Service | 7:30am | Latin Night | 9pm | Bric a Brac Foundation Music Hall HydroFlight Monday | 6:30pm | Crab Trap Destin ••••••••• 12 ••••••••• Little Black Dress Ladies Night | Fat Tuesdays Celebration | 6:30pm | Village of Baytowne Wharf Church at Crab Island | 10am | Crab Farmers Market | 8am-1pm | FWB 6pm | Palms Bistro Harborwalk Village Silent Disco | 7pm | Harborwalk Island Landing All American Thursdays | 6:30pm | Trivia Night | 7pm | Village Door at Village Karaoke | 6pm | Village Door Farmers Market | 9am-1pm | Grand Harborwalk Village Seascape Music Bingo | 7pm | Pallet Bar and Restaurant (Baytowne) Boulevard Dueling Pianos | 7pm | The Palms Game Night | 7pm | Landsharks Pizza Grill Karaoke | 7pm | The Palms Bistro Karaoke Night | 6pm | Village Door Bistro Music Bingo | 7pm | World of Beer HydroFlight Monday | 8:30pm | Sunday Cinema | 8pm | Village of Music Hall Boomin’ Tuesday Fireworks | Village of Baytowne Wharf Baytowne Wharf Rock The Dock | 7pm | Harborwalk 7:15pm | Village of Baytowne Wharf ••••••••• 29 ••••••••• ••••••••• 7 ••••••••• Village Teen Night | 10pm | Fudpuckers Singo Music Bingo | 5:30pm | LuLu’s Free Beach Bonfire/SIN Night | Karaoke Night | 8pm | World Of ••••••••• 23 ••••••••• Destin 5pm | Royal Palm Grille Beer Destin Bonfire on the Beach | 6pm | The Karaoke | 6pm | Enlightened Studios Pirate Davy Show | 5pm | Al’s Beach ••••••••• 13 ••••••••• Bay FWB Club and Burger Bar Beach Church Service | 7:30am | Rock’n Bingo | 7pm | FATBoys Destin Trivia Night | 6:30pm | Village Door HydroFlight Monday | 6:30pm | Crab Trap Destin Free Concert Series | 7pm | Village Music Hall Village of Baytowne Wharf Church at Crab Island | 10am | Crab of Baytowne Wharf Fat Tuesdays Celebration | 6:30pm | Silent Disco | 7pm | Harborwalk Island Open Mic Night | 7pm | Enlightened Harborwalk Village Village Karaoke | 6pm | Village Door Magical Thursdays | 7pm | Village of Studios Trivia Night | 7pm | Village Door at Music Bingo | 7pm | Pallet Bar and Restaurant (Baytowne) Baytowne Wharf Trivia | 7pm | World of Beer Seascape Grill Karaoke | 7pm | The Palms Bistro Fireworks | 9pm | Harborwalk Village Fireworks | 9pm | Okaloosa Island Game Night | 7pm | Landsharks Pizza HydroFlight Monday | 8:30pm | Sunday Cinema | 8pm | Village of ••••••••• 18 ••••••••• ••••••••• 24 ••••••••• Music Bingo | 7pm | World of Beer Village of Baytowne Wharf Baytowne Wharf Free Beach Bonfire | 5pm | Royal Sunset Party | 5pm | Rhumcay Boomin’ Tuesday Fireworks | ••••••••• 8 ••••••••• ••••••••• 14 ••••••••• Palm Grille Luau Beach Party | 5pm | Al’s Beach 7:15pm | Village of Baytowne Wharf Singo Music Bingo | 5:30pm | LuLu’s Free Beach Bonfire/SIN Night | Name That Tune | 6:30pm | Village Club and Burger Bar Teen Night | 10pm | Fudpuckers Destin 5pm | Royal Palm Grille Door Music Hall Karaoke Night | 6pm | Village Door ••••••••• 30 ••••••••• Karaoke | 6pm | Enlightened Studios Pirate Davy Show | 5pm | Al’s Beach Karaoke Night | 8pm | Village Door Music Hall Bonfire on the Beach | 6pm | The FWB Club and Burger Bar Music Hall Live Music | 6pm | Mattie Kelly Arts Bay Trivia Night | 6:30pm | Village Door HydroFlight Monday | 6:30pm | Latin Night | 9pm | Bric a Brac Foundation Rock’n Bingo | 7pm | FATBoys Destin Music Hall Village of Baytowne Wharf ••••••••• 19 ••••••••• Little Black Dress Ladies Night | Free Concert Series | 7pm | Village Fat Tuesdays Celebration | 6:30pm | Silent Disco | 7pm | Harborwalk Farmers Market | 8am-1pm | FWB 6pm | Palms Bistro of Baytowne Wharf Harborwalk Village Village Landing All American Thursdays | 6:30pm | Open Mic Night | 7pm | Enlightened Trivia Night | 7pm | Village Door at Music Bingo | 7pm | Pallet Bar and Farmers Market | 9am-1pm | Grand Harborwalk Village Studios Seascape Grill Boulevard Dueling Pianos | 7pm | The Palms Trivia | 7pm | World of Beer Game Night | 7pm | Landsharks Pizza HydroFlight Monday | 8:30pm | Karaoke Night | 6pm | Village Door Bistro Comedy Zone | 7:30pm | Palms Music Bingo | 7pm | World of Beer Village of Baytowne Wharf Music Hall Magical Thursdays | 7pm | Village of Bistro Boomin’ Tuesday Fireworks | Rock The Dock | 7pm | Harborwalk Baytowne Wharf Fireworks | 9pm | Okaloosa Island 7:15pm | Village of Baytowne Wharf Village Fireworks | 9pm | Harborwalk Village June 2021 Destin Life www.mydestinlife.com Page 5

Community Celebrate, Escape and Embrace the Best of Summer! Baytowne is boomin’ with extraordinaire Ben Merrell over events, activities and family fun the lagoon! Watch as he soars to for summer! The Village and all the sky and makes waves at Bay- of its merchants welcome you to towne Wharf. visit, shop, dine and play! Boomin Tuesday Red, White & Baytowne! Tuesdays through Aug. 3rd Sunday, July 4th 7:15-9:15 p.m. | FREE 7-9:15 p.m.| FREE Turn your eyes on the sky Events Plaza Stage. This Con- Baytowne LIVE Music Sunday Cinema Celebrate Independence and watch as we light up the cert is free to attend and open to June 8th through July 2nd June 6th through June 27th Day at the Village of Baytowne night with a breathtaking fire- the public! Every Tuesday, Thursday 8 p.m. | FREE Wharf, July 4 from 7-9:15 p.m. works show over the Lagoon at Live Music Schedule: and Friday 7-9:30 p.m. Grab a lawn chair or blanket After a day of fun in the sun, 9:15 p.m. PLUS now enjoy a June 9: Biscuit Miller and The Village of Baytowne and cozy up on the Events Plaza come out for an evening that DJ Dance Party with DJ Mike The Mix Wharf presents Baytowne Lawn for a featured film on the lights up the sky! Join Baytowne Whitty in the Events Plaza at June 16: Will Thompson LIVE on Adventure Lane. Lo- big screen! Village merchants for a spectac- 7:15 p.m! Band cated just across from Blast Ar- June Movies: ular 4th of July Red, White and June 23: Luke Langford cade and Laser Maze. June 6 | Maleficent Baytowne 2021 celebration with Wednesday Night June 30: Dion Jones & The Baytowne LIVE Schedule: June 13 | Croods A New Age LIVE music from Donovan Concert Series Neon Tears June 8: Steve Hall June 20 | Secret Life of Pets 2 Keith on the Events Plaza Stage June 2nd through Oct. 27th July 7: Boukou Groove June 10: Steve Hall June 27 | Moana from 7-9:15 p.m., followed by 7-9 p.m. | FREE July 14: Forrest Williams June 11: Jarred McConnell a patriotic Fireworks display to Grab your blankets and lawn June 15: Steve Hall And don’t forget all the fan- light up the night sky at 9:15 chairs and head out to The Magical Thursday June 17: Steve Hall tastic, fun activities with Ad- p.m. The kids will love activities Village of Baytowne Wharf in Thursdays through Aug. 5th June 18: Bobby Cutshaw venture Land Playground, including kids crafts, face paint- Sandestin Golf & Beach Resort. 7 & 8 p.m. | FREE June 24: Steve Hall Baytowne Adventure Zone, ing and balloon sculpting, too! This summer sit back and relax, Join us for magic, music, and June 25: Ken & Andi Johnson Baytowne Carousel and Blast and enjoy live entertainment mayhem! Watch as our featured June 29: Steve Hall Arcade & Laser Maze. So much Hydroflight Monday during our concert series that pirate Captain Davy takes you July 2: Jarred McConnell summer…so much to do at The Mondays through Aug. 2nd features both local and regional on an adventure with two magic Village of Baytowne Wharf! 6:30 & 8:30 p.m. | FREE talent from a variety of genres. shows on stage! 7 p.m. & 8 p.m. Enjoy shows from fly-board Concert begins at 7 p.m. on the Show Times! Page 6 Destin Life www.mydestinlife.com June 2021 Community Trends & Treasures Summertime is here and Pass or Two Week Pass. You ists can help find you the best we’re ready to go on a treasure and your hero can experience products for your hair and skin hunt at City Market beachside all six services in the circuit in- type to keep it as healthy as pos- and bayside for trendy and trea- cluding (1) Infrared Sauna: de- sible. Professional products for sured finds to keep up with the toxifies the body, (2) Red Light men (or women) will help you times! Therapy: cellular rejuvenation achieve your hair and skin goals for skin surface and deep tissue every day. Tackle summer with healing; (3) Whole Body Cryo- “pure” confidence! therapy—3 minutes of cold, dry (850) 424-3935 air flushes the body with fresh, pureandcouture.com reoxygenated, nutrient rich blood; (4) Isolated Cryotherapy: spot treatment for specific areas of joint and muscle pain; (5) Vibration Plates: loosens tight muscles, realigns the spine and healthy! 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BEACHSIDE Two locations to Shop, Dine & Enjoy! 36150 Emerald Coast Parkway • Destin, FL Page 8 Destin Life www.mydestinlife.com June 2021 Community DHS Unveils New Iconic Statue and Athletic Director By Kay Phelan Destin High School’s (DHS) Governing Board and Head of School, Principal Cruickshank, recently held a community sur- prise reveal, news update and a meet and greet for their new Athletic Director, Philip Dorn. The first order of busi- ness was to unveil a very large 15’ Mako shark statue for the new, tuition-free public charter school’s courtyard water foun- tain for the incoming DHS students. A Mako shark is the chosen school mascot. Destin The world-record holding Mako shark replica, generously donated by the LoCicero family, Principal Christine Cruickshank (right) fisherman Capt. Mike Parker let is now proudly displayed at DHS. welcomes DHS’s new Athletic Director guests know that this is a replica Philip Dorn to the school. of a 15’, 1,222-pound shark that Capt. Mike and Father Mike Study group were kind enough a founding DHS board mem- Heidi. “I am truly honored to holds the current world’s record Hessee made the trip to Gray to perform the challenging shark ber, and her husband, Brian serve on the founding board of by IGFA (International Game Taxidermy in Pompano Beach installation in the fountain. For LoCicero, along with their son Destin High School and to be Fish Association) as the largest, to pick up the shark and bring it sure, this shark is destined to be Andrew and finance’ Ann Eliz- able to leave such a legacy for heaviest short-fin Mako shark in back to DHS in Destin. In a vol- an icon for the school as well as abeth Walker, and daughter our community. In donating this the world. It was caught off the unteer capacity, Capt. Mike and the Destin community. Peyton and finance’ Beau Trist. gift, my family hopes that this coast of Massachusetts by Capt. many fishermen from the Des- The shark was generously “Great things are happening iconic shark statue will be the Chris Peters in 2001. tin Fishermen for Christ Bible donated by Heidi LoCicero, in our little beach town,” says backdrop of many wonderful moments, memories and pho- tos taken at Destin High! Sharks Professional Vacation Property help maintain a balance, which Management Exists keeps our oceans healthy, and Join the PMI Destin team today! sharks have longevity, having in- PMI Destin provides vacation property owners with: habited our oceans for 400 mil- • Hands-on attention to detail for positioning, guest experience lion years. That’s some serious and care staying power…just like Destin • Responsive communication and precise accounting High will be!” • Leading edge technology for booking and property monitoring • Maximized property performance The first DHS students in the class of 9th, 10th and 11th grade will have the honor of $0 to Change or Convert to PMI Destin! naming the mascot shark. They We’ll pay your upfront costs* needed to switch to us. *Lock, high-res photos, and monitoring technology will also select a school motto, alma mater song, mission and founding principles on which to ASSOCIATION • RESIDENTIAL • COMMERCIAL • SHORT TERM live by. Newly announced Athletic ABOUT PMI: 300+ Offices nationwide. 20,000+ Residential/Commercial Director Philip Dorn is veteran properties, 50,000 HOA units, and nearly 1,000 Vacation rental properties. leader in high school and col- lege athletics. Coach Dorn has 13 years of experience as an REALTORS: Written Professional Alliance Guarantee. Athletic Director in Florida, 19 Your client stays your client, plus referral $$. years as a Head Football Coach, and 20 years of experience as an Assistant Football Coach—all at 34990 Emerald Coast Parkway, Suite 342 • Destin, FL 32541 the high school and college lev- el. The well-known coach, for- 850-749-4747 merly at Ft. Walton Beach High www.pmidestin.com Continued on next page June 2021 Destin Life www.mydestinlife.com Page 9

C.A.R.E. at theotheturtle.com. A portion continued from page 2 of every Theo purchase, from ball caps and pillows to Christ- be sure to check out the FAQS mas ornaments and key chains, about what to do when you find goes directly to help support the a stranded sea turtle. Release Friends of South Walton Sea stories can also be found online Turtles. We can all do our part about two leatherback sea tur- to protect these amazing marine tles, as well as the story of Ivy, animals; after all, it was certainly Kale and Hazel, the three green their beach first! sea turtles full of fishing hooks who have completely recovered. The stories of Captain Hook, Wendy and Tinkerbell, Aaliyah and the three loggerhead hatch- lings are also on the website. NURSING CAREER OPPORTUNITY! The C.A.R.E. team’s rehabil- itation efforts are funded in part by a grant awarded from the Sea Turtle Grants Program. The Sea NOW Turtle Grants Program is funded the from proceeds from the sale of HIRING! the Florida Sea Turtles License MANOR Personal Care Plate. Learn more at www.help- ingseaturtles.org. Attendant Program If you would like to help the (Full-time & Part-time) C.A.R.E., take a look at their at Blue Water Bay Amazon wish list at https://a. co/hb3ghy4. If you enjoy working with FREE TRAINING & TUITION people and love animals, Gulfari- • NO EXPERIENCE REQUIRED! um C.A.R.E. Center may be the perfect place for you to volunteer. • CAREER LADDER PLAN! Sea Turtle rehabilitation vol- unteers have the opportunity to • Interested in working in health care? assist the Gulfarium C.A.R.E. The Manor at Blue Water Bay is currently recruiting new team staff with a wide variety of tasks supporting the C.A.R.E. mis- members to join our professional and dedicated staff. sion. For more information, visit Gulfarium.com and the EARN WHILE YOU LEARN! C.A.R.E. Center at facebook. com/gulfariumcarecenter. You Interested in becoming a Certified Nursing can also help support the cause Assistant (CNA), Licensed Practical Nurse or Registered Nurse? We have partnered with Northwest Florida State College to offer DHS FREE TUITION & ASSISTANCE continued from previous page to help you achieve your health care School, plans for a vigorous career goals. Join us as a Personal Care sports curriculum at the new Attendant (PCA) and start your career today. DHS. His philosophy of “All Sports, One TEAM!,” will be- (Must pass drug and background screenings) gin immediately to build DHS athletics to a successful educa- PCA Requirements tional-based values athletic pro- • Must be at least 18 years of age gram. In addition to offering an • Completion of High School degree or GED advanced and state-mandated • No experience required! Learn from the best! core curriculum, DHS will also • APPLY TODAY! www.manoratbwb.com utilize a place-based approach to learning that will take advan- tage of the local geography, in- The Manor was recently dustry and community. voted “Best Senior Care Currently, there are just un- Facility” by VIP Magazine. der 29 open seats left towards a total enrollment of 300 stu- Join our award-winning team and make dents. Then DHS will start a waiting list, and open spaces a difference in the lives of others! will be chosen via a lottery for- mat. Call (850) 424-1664, email [email protected] or Apply online: www.manoratbwb.com visit www.destinhighschool.org. Page 10 Destin Life www.mydestinlife.com June 2021 Community If I Sell in This Hot Seller’s Market, Where Will I Go? and if it makes sense, buy where it looks like it might be the next hot market. A few points to ponder if you’re thinking about selling in this hot market: As of the day I’m writing this, May 19, in this area the median sale price for residential proper- ty is up 15.7% year-to-date com- pared to the same timeframe as last year. Think about it: a home that sold for $500,000 last year sold for $575,000 this year! By Gail Pelto That is a heck of a lot of equi- I’m getting this question ty in one year, I think. But wait, where do you think the next or Third, if those areas are next research, talk to your other pro- more and more frequently these there’s more: If you’ve lived in current up-and-coming areas hot areas, might it be a good fessionals (and your family) be- days as I look for listings for my your house for, say, five years, are that are close to where you investment to buy there now? fore you make any decisions. buyers: “Gail, I’d love to sell in the median sales price is 43.3% live now? Could it be Freeport? Maybe. It’s certainly something Want to talk more about your this market and get top dollar higher—$500,000 in 2016, Navarre? Crestview? Some- to think about! options, how much your proper- for my home. But then I’ll have $716,500 now! WHAT!?!?! place else? Is this the same way savvy ty is worth today, or anything to buy something else and pay That’s crazy…crazy GOOD! Second, could you move to investors hedge their bets and else real estate related? Then call top dollar for it. So, it doesn’t Could prices go higher? one of those areas and still be grow their wealth? Sell high, me, Gail Pelto, 850.374.0754 or make any sense—’cause, where Maybe. Could prices go lower? within a short distance to the and then buy the next big thing send me an email: gail.pelto@ would I go?” Maybe. Will interest rates go amenities you enjoy where you with the profits?! kw.com. GREAT QUESTION! up? Someday, probably. Could are now i.e., friends, family, Full disclosure—I am a real We have all heard the adage you buy more house while inter- gym, work, etc.? (Know that if estate agent, not a financial Gail Pelto is a full-time real es- when it pertains to the stock est rates are low then when they you don’t need to stay in this planner nor a psychic. So, as tate agent with Keller Williams and market of “Sell High, Buy Low,” go up? Yep. Lots to think about. area, then there’s plenty of in- much as you and I want to know a board member with both the Mattie right? Well, it kind of works the formation online of where savvy about what’s going to happen in Kelly Arts Foundation and The Rota- same in the real estate market. Now, where to buy: investors are moving to; and if the real estate market in the fu- ry Club. She is also a mentor to new Sell when it’s a Seller’s Market, First, ask yourself if you need you have a good realtor, like me, ture, it’s a guess (plus my crystal agents, helping them be better agents so you can garner top dollar, to stay in the area. If yes, then I can help you with that). ball is in the shop!) So, do your for their clients.

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2 LOCATIONS TO SERVE YOU 4633 E Highway 20, Niceville, FL • 850-678-8338 11394 Highway 98 Unit B, Miramar Beach, FL • 850-678-8338 (next to the Melting pot) STUBBSORTHO.COM H H H H H Our daughter just completed her second phase and had her braces removed today, what a milestone!! This experience has been amazing. We love Dr. Stubbs and her staff. Always friendly and always went above and beyond for my daughter's comfort. ~ Micha K. Page 12 Destin Life www.mydestinlife.com June 2021 Community Get Your Insurance Ready for Hurricane Season dent. In fact, as this year’s hur- has soared in the past year as construction codes that may considered as an alternative to ricane season kicks off, now is a a result of supply chain disrup- have come into play. maximize your protection. really good time to review your tions and shortages, and this Our coastal properties are The insurance marketplace homeowner’s insurance policy is the main reason new home threatened by hurricanes and has rapidly changed with premi- and make sure you are satisfied construction has grown more tropical storms each year, and ums increasing, guidelines and with your level of coverage. expensive in recent months. As flooding can happen anywhere, appetites tightening and some We recommend you initial- such, the homeowner’s policy anytime—even in non-flood carriers losing the ability to of- ly review your hurricane/wind that was once sufficient for your prone areas. We encourage ev- fer new coverages and renewals. coverage. Most policies (HO3, property may now fall short. eryone to purchase flood insur- This seems to be especially for DP3, HO6, HO4) in Florida Another important coverage ance from the National Flood those with older properties that include either hurricane, named to review is Loss of Use that Insurance Program (NFIP), or are close to the water. Citizens storm, or wind/hail under a pays for you to live somewhere a reputable, private flood in- Property Insurance Corpora- By Joe Capers separate deductible. Consisten- else while repairs are being done surance facility which may be a tion, the state’s insurer of last NOAA (National Oceanic cy of coverages is important in to your temporarily unlivable better flood insurance alterna- resort is again becoming a pop- & Atmospheric Administration) any policy, but this type is typ- home. This also goes for rental tive to the NFIP for your home, ular and vital player in Florida. has just released its 2021 Hurri- ically preferred. Some carriers properties with Loss of Rents investment or commercial prop- And to prepare this market with cane Season Forecast calling for do not write wind coverage if coverage. To trigger this type of erty. improved financial strength and an above average season with 13 your home is close to the water. coverage, there needs to be di- It is also good to remember capacity, the state legislature to 20 named storms. Last year’s So, a stand-alone wind-only pol- rect physical damage. that flood and water damage approved a $2.6 billion reinsur- record setting 30 named storms icy would be needed. When it An often, misunderstood from a wind event are not neces- ance and risk transfer program only had 12 that actually made comes to wind coverage, the best coverage not offered with each sarily the same thing. There are for the upcoming hurricane sea- landfall. option is to opt for hurricane. carrier, but always recommend- a few carriers who will add flood son. It includes nearly $850 mil- The season is already off to Keep in mind there are several ed, is Law or Ordinance cover- coverage as an endorsement to lion of new catastrophe bonds, a busy start, as the first named deductible options available that age. Most carriers, if they have a home policy. For most insured which is about double the storm formed prior to the offi- can have a large impact on what it available, offer either 10%, homeowners, your flood policy amount of last year’s cat bonds. cial June 1 start to the hurricane would be your out-of-pocket re- 25%, or 50% coverage tied to will be a separate policy writ- season, and in recent years, sponsibility if you file a claim as your Dwelling Limit. If there ten through the NFIP (National Insurance Zone, founded by Joe storms have grown increasingly well as the amount of premium is extensive hurricane damage, Flood Insurance Program) or a and Lea Capers, is a full service intense. you would pay for the policy. like we saw with Hurricane Mi- private market, and this is the commercial and personal lines insur- If you own a home or invest- Adequate Dwelling Limit chael, there may be new build- method we prefer. Unless your ance agency serving Destin, Miramar ment property, you are proba- (Coverage A) coverage to re- ing codes you must adhere to in lender requires the policy, or Beach, Santa Rosa Beach (30A) and bly aware that having the right build your home in the event of order to rebuild. The additional you are closing on a new pur- Inlet Beach. Visit their Video Library homeowners or rental insurance a loss is also important. Local Law or Ordinance coverage is chase, there is a standard 30- on www.ins-zone.com and watch sev- policy in place is of utmost im- and national data indicates that crucial to your protection, since day waiting period through the eral informative videos on ‘Homeown- portance. Without proper cov- nearly two out of three homes your policy is designed to rebuild NFIP before your flood policy ers, Condo Unit Owners and Flood’, erage, you could be responsible and structures are underinsured. your home as it was before the will become effective. Many of or call 850.424.6979 and talk with for expensive damage in the The cost of lumber and oth- damage, with similar materials the private markets in in the one of our experienced Team Mem- event of a weather-related inci- er common building materials and quality, and not with more country, and especially in Flori- bers. costly materials that could now da, offer broader coverages than be required by more stringent the NFIP and these should be

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Community Okaloosa County’s First Solar Trees Arrive at HarborWalk Village Okaloosa County has wel- cal and visiting children can see erating 7.2 kilowatts of clean, public to see solar energy tech- the color-changing light fea- comed the first solar trees to solar energy being made. renewable energy that is flow- nology at work and use the trees’ ture on each tree which, with HarborWalk Village in Destin “It seems Gulf Power has ing into the power grid for the QR codes to access information the click of remote control, can during a ceremonial untying of been a part of everything I’ve benefit of all customers. That’s about the benefits of solar, Gulf change the light colors for differ- a green ribbon in May. Legend- done for so long and is a great enough energy to power nearly Power’s solar trees and canopies, ent events and holiday celebra- six school classrooms on a daily and our large-scale solar energy tions. Gulf Power is working to basis. centers in service and in devel- bring more solar trees, parking With color-changing lights, opment across Northwest Flor- canopies and solar zones — so- each tree inspires conversations ida. lar tables with charging stations about clean energy and offers Gulf Power Vice President — to other areas across the re- an element of education. They Mike Spoor presented Peter gion. For more information, vis- provide an opportunity for the with the remote controller for it: www.GulfPower.com/solar.

General & Family Dentistry Gulf Power, City of Destin, Okaloosa County and HarborWalk Cosmetic Dentistry Village leaders celebrated a more sustainable energy future with a Dr. Jason E. Baker ribbon untying for the new Gulf Power solar trees at the HarborWalk Orthodontics Adventures area in Destin. Emergency Denistry Dr. Christina ary developer and CEO Peter partner, a willing partner,” says Implants Higgins-Duplechain Bos joined the City of Des- Peter. “Gulf Power, we are glad Wisdom Teeth tin, Okaloosa County, Destin to have you leading the path for Chamber of Commerce and this and educating our children Botox™ and Juvaderm™ Gulf Power officials on the Har- and the children that are visiting Sedation Dentistry borWalk Village dock where the us. We are super glad to have two solar trees have been plant- this right in front of the (fishing) ed under the zip line. fleet, in this setting.” The panels on the two solar “This is exciting because this 77 South Shore Dr. | Miramar Beach, FL 32550 trees harvest the sun to produce is new technology,” Destin May- Ottos NewsPhone: Ad 6x5_r3_Outlines.pdf (850) 650-2070 2 2/17/21 | www.miramarbeachdental.com 1:46 PM zero-emissions energy. Located or Gary Jarvis says. “This is a vi- in the high-energy entertain- sual example of teamwork, and ment district of the HarborWalk the commitment your company Adventures area, Peter noted has made with the city. I look that the solar trees are a great forward to more of these inno- educational addition to the Har- vative ideas.” borWalk Village dock where lo- Together, these trees are gen- Page 14 Destin Life www.mydestinlife.com June 2021 Community Market Leaders Thus Far in 2021? erate. To answer that, it is im- energy firms. It takes that mo- Knowing what impact infla- portant to take note of few facts mentum of dollars to keep these tion and other factors may have about today. equities growing at such rates. and when that might happen The energy sector re- Do these investors have it right? means doing your research or mains the best performer The takeaway is that inves- utilizing the advice or profession- in 2021, up 35%, while the tors who are looking for value, al management of an investment clean tech index is down inflation resilience and income, advisor. 47% from its peak in Febru- and have confidence in what is ar y. happening in this sector, should The First Wealth Management is Some investors might think possibly consider increasing their located at First Florida Bank, a divi- this recent strong and leading holdings or weightings into En- sion of the First, A National Banking By Maurice Stouse, Financial performance is the proverbial ergy, if this is right for you. Association, 2000 98 Palms Blvd., Advisor and Branch Manager head fake — that energy stocks natural gas and liquified natural A note regarding Electric Ve- Destin, FL 32541, with branch offic- The Energy Sector. Ac- (which were the worst perform- gas continues to grow as well. hicles: Raymond James (Energy es in Niceville, Mary Esther, Miramar cording to Raymond James, ers for the past five years) might Natural gas is seen as not only a Daily Update May 14, 2021) sees Beach, Freeport and Panama City. “The Energy Sector remains the again lag the market before long. transitional natural resource, but the growth coming much faster Phone 850.654.8124. best performer in 2021, up 35% In the meantime, consider the a replacement for coal. for heavy duty electric trucks, Raymond James advisors do not of- (10% greater than the next best following data: Most notable however is the commercial vehicles and buses fer tax advice. Please see your tax pro- sector) while the clean tech in- During this year’s Berkshire significant decrease in explora- compared with electric cars. In- fessionals. Email: Maurice.stouse@ dex is down 47% from its peak Hathaway annual meeting, War- tion and production. Both Ray- vestors can participate in those raymondjames.com.Securities offered in February.” (Raymond James ren Buffet noted that there are mond James and Fidelity have directly through the stocks in the through Raymond James Financial Energy Daily Update May 14, over 290 million cars and light spoken to that recently. Major firms that develop and produce Services, Inc. (Member FINRA/ 2021). Last fall, Fidelity Invest- trucks on the road in the USA oil companies (Exploration and all of these. SIPC), and are not insured by bank ments suggested that the Ener- today. Add to that, Statista.com Production or E & Ps) are not Inflation Resistent or insurance, the FDIC or any other gy sector could be the leader in estimates worldwide daily con- expanding their investments in Inflation Resilient Invest- government agency, are not deposits or a recovering economy, and they sumption in 2021 will be 96.5 new wells even though the price ments: The main measures of obligations of the bank, are not guar- continue to see Energy as a lead- million barrels of oil. They proj- (currently around $65 a barrel) is price inflation came out this past anteed by the bank, and are subject ing sector. What is interesting ect that to be 103.2 million by well above their costs. Most an- week. First were consumer prices to risks, including the possible loss of is that this in the face of all the 2025. Car sales are projected to alysts see $50 to be the average (CPI) which showed an increase principal. Investment Advisory Services negative news on fossil fuels and hit 18.5 million units this year cost for these majors and some of 4.2% year over year and up are offered through Raymond James the focus on clean energy. Why (Seasonally Adjusted Annualized of the biggest oil companies .8% from March. That was the Financial Services Advisors, Inc. is this group up 35% despite the Rate, SAAR, for April) per Au- have lift costs below that, in the fastest pace since 2008. The sec- The First Wealth Management unfavorable sentiment? Add to tomotive News and Motor Intel- low 40s. ond was producer prices (PPI). First Florida Bank, and The First, A that the fact that the momentum ligence. This adds up to a lot of Lower exploration and pro- That showed a year over year National Banking Association are not in green energy can only accel- demand. The consumption of duction mean less oil and gas in increase of 6.2% or .6% from registered broker/dealers and are inde- the future. Fidelity has pointed March. The Bureau of Labor pendent of Raymond James Financial out that this could significantly Statistics noted that was the larg- Services. decrease what has been an all- est increase since 2010. While the Views expressed are the current

Located at, out glut of oil and gas over the Federal Reserve has two major opinion of the author, not necessarily past several years. While we do focuses (one being inflation and those of RJFS or Raymond James, not think this means shortages, the other being employment) it and are subject to change without no- we do agree this could lead to the is most concerned for the mo- tice. Information provided is general in firming of oil prices. Historically, ment about jobs. Interestingly nature and is not a complete statement this boom-and-bust sector has the number of open jobs right of all information necessary for mak- had large swings in price. now is 8.1mm, and the number ing an investment decision and is not a The result of firming oil pric- of unemployed Americans is ap- recommendation or a solicitation to buy es means consistency of profit proximately 9.8 million. or sell any security. Past performance is Up, down or sideways: Keep margins, resilience of dividends Wage pressures may or may not indicative of future results. your head on straight when and increased share buy backs, not be in our future. On the low- Investing involves risk and you may all of which could support the er spectrum of wages, McDon- incur a profit or loss regardless of strat- markets move. continued growth in share pric- ald’s reported that it is increas- egy selected, including diversification Some investors have learned how to ride out the most es. It also means that the majors, ing the minimum wage to $14 and asset allocation. Investors should stomach-churningYourmarket usual?cycles. Others follow the urge Familiarity bias means sticking with what you know – but there may be a lot that you don’t. and smaller firms, through con- per hour at its company owned consult their investment professional to jump outFamiliaritymid-ride. might be playingSo what a role incan someyou of yourdo decisions.to play it smart sistent margins, have the capi- stores. It intends to move that to prior to making an investment decision. in a roller coaster of a market? Think Before You Act tal to expand in to greener and $15 by 2024. Chipotle also an- Treasury Inflation Protection -Se For starters, you can turn to us. We can help you find a cleaner energy like solar and nounced that it is increasing its curities, or TIPS, adjust the invest- clearToway help youforwar keep familiarityd befor frome fear overly orinfluencingconcer yourns financialtake plan:over with • Don’t confuse awareness with understanding or expertise. Rely on objective research. wind farms. That too could sup- minimum wage to $15 per hour. ed principal base by the CPI-U at a • Takea thestrategy time to considertailorYo youred motivationsurto yourusual? forsituation. selecting certainIn investmentsour experience, or strategies. Familiarityperspective• Don’t rulebias out anmeansis investmentthe ticketsticking or financialto helping strategywith becausewhatendur it’syoue foreigntheknowups to you.and– but port share prices. The final takeaway, if inves- semiannual rate. Rate of inflation Call us to scheduledownsthere a meetingasmayou anytimey bepursue toa receivelot yourthat the objectivefiyounancial insightdon’ goals.yout need to make There is a flip side to this how- tors wish to adjust their strategy is based on the CPI-U, which has a important decisions surrounding your wealth. FamiliarityContactmight beusplayingto leara ronlehowin somewe canof yourhelp.decisions ever: many institutional investors during periods of price inflation, three-month lag. (pension funds, endowments, might possibly turn to increase Investing in the energy sector in- THINKFirst FlBEorFOida REWealthYOUGrouACpT mutual funds, insurance com- their weightings in equities (val- volves special risks, including the poten- To help you keepThefamiDivis liFirstaritiony fromofWealthFiovrserlty FlinManagementorfluencinida Bagnkyour fi nancial plan: A Division of The First Bank, NA • Don’t confuse aw2000arenesNisnetwiythEiunghdetrsPatalmsnding or expertise. panies and others) are shying ue stocks in particular) as well as tial adverse effects of state and federal 2000Rely Ninetyon obje Eightctive Palmsresear Blvd.ch. away from these stocks because commodities (materials stocks) regulation and may not be suitable for Destin, BlFLvd 32541 • Take the time to considerDestin,yourFL 32541motivations for selecting they, like many other institution- and Treasury Inflation Protected all investors. MauriceMaur Stouseice Stousecertain investments850.654.8122or strategies. AmAmyy PaParrishrrish Financial Advisor 850.654.8122 Financial Advisor al investors are focused on ESG Securities. Energy stocks as well Utilizing an ESG investment strat- Fi• naDon’ncitalruleAdvisoutoran investment or financial strategyFibecausenancial Adit’viss or investing (Environmental, Social as financials, real estate (mainly egy may result in investment returns SecuritiesSecur offeredities off throughered thr Raymondough Ra Jamesymond FinancialforJameseign Services,Financialto Inc.you.Se rvMemberices, InFINRA/SIPC,c. Member andFINR are A/SIPnot insuredC, and by bank insurance,are notthe FDICinsur ored anyby otherbank governmentinsurance ,agency,the FDIC are notor andepositsy other or goobligationsvernmen oft theagenc bank,y, areare notnot guaranteeddeposits by the and Governance) and hence that REITS), materials and industri- that may be lower or higher than if de- bank,Ca andorll areoblius subjectgattoions tosc risks,ofhethe includingdulebank, ar theae not possiblemeguaretin anlosste ofedg principal.anby theytimebank Investment, andto aradvisoryree suceivbje servicesct toe rithe sksoffered, inobclu throughjedingct theivRaymonde Jamespossi Financialble loss Servicesof principal. Advisors,Inve Inc.stmen Thet advisFirst orWealthy se rvManagementices offer edandthr Theou ghFirstRa Bank,ymond NA Jaaremes not Firegisterednancial could slow or stunt the growth in als represent more value-orient- cisions were based solely on investment inSesirvghicestAdyovisuorsbroker/dealersne, Inc.edFirstto Flandorma idaare independentWekealthimGrpoou ofp RaymondrtandanFirstt JamesdeFlor FinancialciidasiBaonnk Services.arsesunotrrregisouternded ing broker/dealers and are independent of Raymond James Financial Services. share prices of many traditional ed stocks or equities. considerations.

NF-11041926 your wealth.

The First Wealth Management A Division of The First Bank, NA 2000 Ninety Eight Palms Blvd Destin, FL 32541 Maurice Stouse Amy Parrish 850.654.8122 Financial Advisor Financial Advisor Securities offered through Raymond James Financial Services, Inc. Member FINRA/SIPC, and are not insured by bank insurance, the FDIC or any other government agency, are not deposits PROOF O.K. BY:______or obligations of the bank, arO.K.e not guWITHaranteCORRECTIONSed by the bank, andBYare:______subject to risks, including the possible loss of principal. Investment advisory services offered through Raymond James Financial PLEASE READ CAREFULLY • SUBMIT CORRECTIONSServices AdvisorsONLINE, Inc. The First Wealth Management and The First Bank, NA are not registered broker/dealers and are independent of Raymond James Financial Services.

NF-11041926 (100%)NF-11068627 ADVERTISER: RAYMOND JAMES_M. STOUSE PROOF CREATED AT: 5/9/2019 12:09:24 AM SALES PERSON: NF118 NEXT RUN DATE: 05/12/19 SIZE: 3X10 PROOF DUE: 05/10/19 09:59:55 PUBLICATION: NF-DAILY NEWS

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PLEASE READ CAREFULLY • SUBMIT CORRECTIONS ONLINE NF-11068627 (100%) ADVERTISER: RAYMOND JAMES_M. STOUSE PROOF CREATED AT: 11/8/2019 3:50:37 PM SALES PERSON: NF215 NEXT RUN DATE: 11/10/19 SIZE: 3X10 PROOF DUE: 11/08/19 09:59:55 PUBLICATION: NF-DAILY NEWS June 2021 Destin Life www.mydestinlife.com Page 15

Community Vets Helping Vets & First Responders By Marta Rose-Thorpe and were able to escape with how we give back: appreciating bringing the community togeth- 13, 2021 from 11:30 a.m. to 1 312 guests attended the April minor cuts and bruises. John all local vets and first responders er and we want to encourage p.m. at Faith Assembly Chris- 20th quarterly Vets & First Re- and Charles were able to help with a delicious hot lunch ca- everyone that they, too, can give tian Church (a.k.a. The Rock & sponders Appreciation Lunch several others out of the emer- tered by Texas Roadhouse and back with whatever they have to Roll Church), 306 South Geron- held at Texas Roadhouse in gency window before escaping co-sponsored by Century 21 give. imo Street, Miramar Beach, FL Panama City Beach, and of themselves. Forty-seven people Blue Marlin and Herbafex; and The community is invited 32550. Veterans and First the dozen or so entrees for the lost their lives that night. giving away an HVAC unit each to join us for the next Vets & Responders: To register to Free HVAC Giveaway, Mr. John Four and a half years ago, quarter to one deserving veter- First Responders Apprecia- win an HVAC unit, apply online Rickard (aka Uncle John), a Edith passed away, and John an or first responder. We love tion Lunch on Tuesday, July at ASuperiorAC.com.

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World War II veteran, was our moved into an assisted living fa- winner. John joined the U.S. cility in Zephyrhills, FL. When Navy when he was 17 and was Covid-19 hit, his assisted liv- an aircraft mechanic. He served ing facility went on lockdown for four years and afterwards, he (meaning he was unable to leave and his wife Edith, who he was his 12 x 12 room). No visitors, happily married to for 70 years, and his food was brought to his both worked for the U.S. Postal room. He became ill, but was Service. When they retired in not allowed to see a doctor “un- 1992, they – along with Edith’s less it is an emergency,” he was sister Verona and her husband told. After becoming severely ill, Charles – took the trip of a he was finally transported to the lifetime all around the U.S. on hospital by ambulance, where Amtrack Railways. They were he stayed in ICU for two weeks. gone for over a month and had John’s niece, Lisa Helmes, de- a wonderful adventure! In the cided she wouldn’t let him go last six hours of their trip, how- back to the assisted living facil- ever, tragedy struck with what is ity. So, she brought him to Pan- now known as the largest Am- ama City Beach last July, where, track disaster in history. after six weeks of IV antibiot- A tugboat captain took the ics, he is “good as snuff” again. wrong bayou and couldn’t turn Today, John exercises daily and around. He knocked out the makes it a point to keep a posi- railroad bridge just minutes tive mindset. before their train crossed at A Superior Air Conditioning around 2 a.m. Their train car, Co. has the honor and privilege along with six other train cars, of helping this gentleman stay plunged into the alligator-infest- Cool as a Cucumber with a new ed swamp. Miraculously, by the HVAC unit! We love helping grace of God, they were sitting Veterans and First Responders by an emergency exit window in our community, and this is Page 16 Destin Life www.mydestinlife.com June 2021 Community And the Miss Destin Winner is Kaylie Sparks! Eight contestants, Destin res- gone on to be teachers, law- Rodeo. But, after finishing as Northwest Florida State College ident high-school girls between yers, engineers, mothers, doc- first runner-up last year, Kay- next year and plans to trans- the ages of 16 and 19, recently tors, news anchors, nurses, lie Anne Sparks, an age 18, fer to the University of Florida vied for the title of Miss Destin business owners and even the 12th-grader at Niceville High in Gainesville later. Kaylie says 2021—Kathryn Ballard, Molly First Lady of Destin. Contes- School, was chosen to serve through her life experiences, she Bettinger, Kasidy Braden, Ella tants are judged on person- as Miss Destin 2021 and re- will use Miss Destin also as a Kathryn Campbell, Whitney ality, communication skills ceived a $2,000 academic platform to raise awareness for O’Keefe, Savannah Pitchlynn, and availability to fulfill the scholarship + others. “I have pediatric cancer. “I am an advo- Kaylie Sparks and Bella Wasson. duties of Miss Destin at the always dreamed of fulfilling cate for this cause, because I am Each year sfor almost 30 Destin Fishing Rodeo. “No this role ever since I was a a thyroid cancer survivor,” says years, Miss Destin has served small task,” says Lori Smith, little girl. From an early age, Kaylie. as an ambassador for the City one of the four judges, “we I saw the Destin community Kathryn Ballard was first run- of Destin while assisting in nu- were challenged with eight come and deliver meals to my ner-up, Kasidy Braden was sec- merous events in the community amazing young ladies who family in difficult times. This ond runner-up and also named throughout her one-year reign. all seemingly could represent is a great opportunity for me Miss Photogenic, and Bella Was- Sponsored by the Destin Fish- our city well. I have to com- to give back to the wonderful son received the coveted Peyton ing Rodeo Organization, Miss mend them all. It took us 40 PHOTO BY SAVANNAH LEIGH SMITH, people that have supported LoCicero Humanitarian Award, Destin’s primary function is to minutes to come to a final de- SAVVYLEIGHPHOTO.COM my family,” says Kaylie. endowed by Frillseekers Gifts represent our city for 31 days in cision!” year that it took the judges so Kaylie was also a contestant and the LoCicero family. October, EVERY DAY, for the “It just goes to show what long to make a decision,” says last year, finishing as first run- View the full photo library at annual Rodeo Weigh Ins. an incredible group of girls we Helen Donaldson, executive ner-up to Lauren Adams, Miss savvyleighphoto.pixieset.com/ Traditionally, many have had running for Miss Destin this director of the Destin Fishing Destin 2020. She’ll be attending missdestin/. Official Grand Opening: Captain Leonard Destin Park By Catherine Card, ed a ribbon cutting and grand who came from New London, land as the original homestead of chosen Destin to be our home. City of Destin PIO opening of Destin’s newest Connecticut, in the mid-1800s its namesake. “The allure of East Six generations after Leonard On Thursday, May 13th, park, Captain Leonard Des- to establish a fishing village along Pass that brought Leonard Destin built his homestead here, I’m Destin’s Mayor, City Council, tin. Named after the original the Florida Gulf Coast, the park here almost 200 years ago still ex- beyond privileged to be a part staff and special guests host- founder of the City of Destin is located on the same plot of ists today; it’s why each of us have Continued on next page Time For

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Community Freedom By Dave Saviola, from someone, especially some- tinually, especially now during a job, business, or influence we great joy of being truly freed Arborbrook Financial one you do not even know is season of time when some are have been given? by Christ, he later wrote “For Within a short period of time, humbling and brings great joy. trying to divide us. No one earns There was a man who once you have been called to live in two major holidays prompt us Gifts come in many forms, but a gift, but when you are genu- threatened and murdered freedom, my brothers and sis- to reflect and commemorate the most meaningful ones tend inely grateful for something Christians who received this ters. But don’t use your freedom the history of the United States. to be those that are completely you can’t help but respond in a heavenly gift of freedom while to satisfy yourself. Instead, use One a somber reminder of the unexpected and not able to be certain way. What are we doing he was on his way to persecute your freedom to serve one an- sacrifice it takes and the price repaid. A very long time before with the time, money, house, them further. Overcome by the other in love.” that is continually paid to pro- the U.S. was even a thought, tect and retain our freedom, and Jesus said “There is no greater one a celebration of the birth of love than to lay down one’s life this great nation that has many for one’s friends.” Friends? Re- times been a beacon of hope to ally? That either means He died the world. for just a small handful of people If you are reading this and He hung out with on this earth, you have ever served in the mil- or that you and I are friends of itary or as a first responder, we the God of the universe. would like to pause to honor you This gift of ultimate free- and thank you for all that you dom, Amazing Grace (as several have done. songs have proclaimed), is one Receiving an amazing gift we should be focused on con-

PARK celebrate the unique character continued from previous page and history of Florida’s com- munities,” said DEP Secretary of the City’s efforts to preserve a Noah Valenstein. “Immersion part of our shared heritage and in Florida’s natural beauty and identity in perpetuity,” stated for- increased educational oppor- mer Councilman Parker Destin. tunities creates generations of Mayor Gary Jarvis stated, Floridians who will protect and “Captain Leonard Destin Park perpetuate Florida’s way of

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is a true jewel of our City that life.” In August of 2020, The not only represents our heritage Trust for Public Land trans- but also honors the founding of ferred the park to the City along Elements & Resources the commercial fishing industry with operations and mainte- which is very much a part of our nance funds for 10 years. “We livelihood today. We are excited were thrilled to work with FL “Your Professional Surfaces Resource” to have this world class park for DEP and the City of Destin to all to enjoy.” In 2015, The Trust create this unique and beautiful for Public Land purchased the park for all to enjoy,” stated Kate 3.42-acre property with Deep- Brown, Senior Project Manager, water Horizon Oil Spill Natural The Trust for Public Land. The Resource Damage Assessment park, located at 101 Calhoun early restoration funds with a Avenue, includes an accessible vision to create a park for the beach area, boardwalk, play- New Motorized Arcadia Pergolas Savannah Blue 9"x36" public, provide public access ground, bathrooms, a splash • Motorized Louvers • Largest Selection of to the water and help preserve pad, pavilions, dock, and paddle • Fan Beams Rectified Porcelain the history of the community. board/kayak launch. The park • LED Lighting tiles in Northwest Fl. “Outdoor spaces like Captain is also home to a heron rookery • Phone App Controlled Alys Beach White Pavers & Tiles • Factory Direct Prices Cimeti Grey 30"x30" Leonard Destin Park offer op- along with educational signage • Financing Available • IN STOCK portunities for outdoor recre- highlighting over 150 years of 181 Lynn Dr., Ste A, Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459 Ph: 850-622-0246 F. 866-929-2205 ation, improve public access to history and natural features of Florida’s natural resources, and the park. www.aersrb.com Page 18 Destin Life www.mydestinlife.com June 2021 Environment Ther·mal im·ag·ing /ˈTHərməl ˈimijiNG/ Definition, noun; the technique of using the heat given off by an object to produce an image of it or locate it.

medical doctors or firefighters. Most homes and homeowners We are passionate about finding can benefit from having a ther- and curing energy inefficiencies mal imaging inspection. Using in your home to make it more this technology saves time, ac- ENERGY TIPS comfortable and efficient, sav- curately identifies problem areas ing you money. That’s why we and once addressed, increases by Emerald Coast Energy Solutions use Thermal Imaging when we comfort and saves energy. By Chris Balzer, ECES inspect homes, for quick and You can beat the heat by seal- Now that we know the defi- accurate identification. An in- ing those leaks, adding missing nition, what is it used for and graphic camera (infrared cam- invisible to the human eye. This frared camera can help diag- insulation, upgrading to an at- how can it help? A thermo era) detects infrared light (heat) characteristic makes these cam- nose a variety of home perfor- tic energy barrier and coating eras incredibly useful for all mance problems, including air windows with our virtually clear sorts of applications, including leaks and missing insulation. ERG film which blocks 94% of security, surveillance, detection Some common areas where air heat and 99.9% of harmful UV and military uses. Archeolo- leaks occur are light fixtures, rays. Adding insulation will in- gists deploy infrared cameras electrical receptacles, windows crease your comfort, extend the on excavation sites. Engineers and doors, attic entrances and life of HVAC systems, because use them to find structural - de plumbing penetrations. Using they don’t work as hard, increase ficiencies. Doctors and medical thermal imaging allows us to see air quality and save money. technicians can pinpoint and what other devices can’t. diagnose problems within the NOAA (National Oceanic Chris Balzer is Founder and human body. Firefighters peer and Atmospheric Administra- President of Emerald Coast Energy into the heart of fires and can tion) released this January that Solutions, a Smile Provider Company. detect fires not visible to the eye. the Earth’s warming trend con- We provide smiles to our customers There are many different tasks tinued making 2020 the hot- after installing our high energy effi- and different types of thermal test year since 1880, when they cient products, increasing comfort and Hard to cool rooms? High Energy Bills? imaging, however; each camera started recording temperatures, lowering energy bills. For more infor- Looking to go Green? relies on the same set of princi- knocking 2019 to 3rd. The mation on how to save this summer ples in order to function, using world’s five warmest years have and become energy efficient, schedule Green Solutions to High Energy Bills: the heat given off by an object all occurred since 2015. We also an inspection by calling (850) 588- to produce an image. At ECES have experienced a pretty mild 2870, visit www.trusteces.com or Radiant Barrier - Blow In Insulation (Emerald Coast Energy Solu- winter and spring so far and this email [email protected]. Beat the Thermal Inspections - Max Cap Crawl Space tions), we are not archeologists, summer looks to be a hot one. Heat! System - ERG Window Film Financing Available (850) 588-2870 www.TrustECES.com 2021: The Year Solar Becomes Committed to Excellence & Integrity A Total Home Energy Efficiency Driver? to support a total home energy Some of the factors driving solution. this shift include solar becoming For the past couple of de- more affordable and viewed by cades, those who’ve purchased locals as a safe, environmental- solar, are considering it or sim- ly friendly energy alternative. ply have the information, have Tesla has also worked to main- associated it with simply putting stream electric vehicles. Accord- panels on their roof to reduce ing to cleantechnica.com, EV their energy bills. And yes, this sales are projected to grow 70% is a simple, straightforward way in 2021 as new models come to to cut down electricity bills and market and both states and utili- save significant money. I hear ties offer more incentives. It will Heating - Cooling - Indoor Air Quality first-hand from customers who make sense for many EV own- By Gina Weidie are pleased at how solar has re- ers to charge their cars with free Call Today for Service 850-678-9522 2020 has certainly been a duced their energy bill. solar energy produced on their www.aireservec.com challenging year for all of us, But over the next year or so, own rooftops. including those in the solar in- I expect homeowners to think RenewableEnergyWorld. Serving Walton, Okaloosa dustry. But as we’ve persevered, of solar as part of a total solu- com says there’s also a shift $ and Bay Counties I see only more growth in res- tion, including battery storage, throughout the U.S. from oil 50 OFF idential solar in the coming energy efficient upgrades, and and gas to electric powered DUCT CLEANING LIC # CAC1819748 years. I believe it will shift from charging electric vehicles to en- heating to meet climate change Let us get the dirt you can’t see! Family, Locally and homeowners wanting solar only compass a more holistic home and clean energy goals. As this Veteran owned to taking advantage of its ability energy picture. Continued on next page June 2021 Destin Life www.mydestinlife.com Page 19 Environment Roofs for Educators Winner: Charisse Stokes In May, Specialty Roofers, Nominated by dozens of Inc. held a Roofs for Educators her students and peers, student contest! More than 275 North- Stephanie Barfield sums it up west Florida educators were when she says Charisse “serves nominated to win a free roof. the community tirelessly.” Cha- It came down to a final three: risse has been an educator for Billie “Charisse” Stokes from 14 years in Okaloosa County Crestview High School, Donna Schools and serves alongside Barton from Destin Elementary her husband, a pastor, in their and Patrick Cole from Niceville church ministry. “She is the High School. And Billie won! best teacher I’ve ever had,” says “As a local company that Stephanie. “She is always up- ida,” Mike Miller, president of 25-year labor warranty). deeply cares about this commu- beat and encouraging the stu- ways the best period of the day. SRI, said. Specialty Roofers, Inc. (SRI) nity, we wanted to give back,” dents. She truly believes in all of She also helps out with clubs The prize, a new roof which partnered with GAF Roofing Erin Bakker, director of busi- us and I never would have been and band and is always volun- is now already-installed for Cha- for this latest contest. Last year, ness development at SRI, said. able to make it through the end teering.” risse and her family, is valued at Perry Heslep, an officer with the “Early in my career I taught of last year or this year without “The 2020-2021 school year $18,500, and included all labor Fort Walton Beach Police De- first and second grade at Destin her!! She is never too busy for has posed many hurdles for ed- and materials. They were able partment and Florida National Elementary, so I know firsthand the students, even if you’re not ucators across the country, and to select their shingle color and Guardsman, was the lucky win- that teachers deserve all the in her class. She is one of those we are especially proud of the SRI included its Golden Pledge ner of their Roofs for Respond- praise and appreciation we can special teachers whose class you hard work and dedication of warranty on the roof (includes a ers contest. give them.” never dread going to and is al- our teachers in Northwest Flor- 50-year material warranty and a

SOLAR tions such as solar installers who relationship between your solar Life (https://mydestinlife.com/ to live by our values, and set an continued from previous page can design your solar system production and your energy us- nows-a-great-time-to-consider- example for others to follow. and help you decide whether age patterns, shifting energy-in- solar-options). Currently, we are conducting shift continues, and electrical battery storage makes sense for tensive activities to peak solar I work with Powur, the first electric bill evaluations. See our load increases, solar is going you economically. We help you times or using a battery to store solar company to offset 100% coupon on p. 43. Call me, Gina to play an even bigger role in navigate the economic impact energy from peak times for use of the emissions from the man- Weidie, with your questions at saving consumers money. Even of time of use rates and net me- later. ufacturing and installation of a (985) 317-9583. Put the Sun to utilities are encouraging this, tering and help you choose the As more of you witness the solar system. With a vision to ac- Work for You! offering rebates to customers to right size for your home’s needs. impact on your utility bills and celerate the adoption of sustain- make the switch to solar. And For EV owners, we help you bal- the ways you can attain ener- able energy worldwide, we strive now we have a lot more incen- ance solar production with EV gy efficiency and clean energy tive to make whole home energy charging, especially considering goals, now is a great time to con- changes with many states estab- that charging times might occur sider solar options—for those lishing energy goals. when solar production is low. reasons and several others (See We offer guidance for solu- We help you understand the article in March 2021 Destin

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“I’d put my money on the sun and solar energy. What a source of power! I hope we don’t have to wait until oil and coal run out before we tackle that.” — Thomas Edison Page 20 Destin Life www.mydestinlife.com June 2021 Travel Destin Dining, Entertainment, Specials Father’s Day and the 4th of July and is known as the feast day of Travel News Update: Saint Joseph. This celebration Cruising from the U.S. is was brought to the Americas back and expected to start this by the Spanish and Portuguese. summer. Vaccines will most like- Then, in 1908, Grace Golden ly be required at first with some Clayton proposed the day to protocols still in place which are AJ’s Seafood & Oyster Bar on 98, of Nashville roots, also SPECIALS change. Follow us on FaceBook ing years in the Destin commu- honor those men who lost their expected to be relaxed in the Since 1984, AJ’s Seafood & features its very own “Real Deal Daily Lunch Specials M-F for updates! Enjoy… nity, colorful, eclectic fun is to be lives in a mining accident in the near future. Changes are hap- Oyster Bar has been serving cold Nashville Hot Sauce!” $9.99 (850) 837-3645 had at Bric a` Brac! They can TRAVELIN’ U.S., though it was not accepted pening daily. Gulf Coast oysters and cool liba- Check out more specials, beer Slacker Sunday Oyster 288-B Harbor Blvd., Destin help with your parties, promo- then. But in 1909, Senora Smart Alaska: Some cruise lines tions. What began as a popular selections and a full menu at aus- Brunch – 11am boathouseoysterbardestin.com tions, birthdays, business events with JoDell Dodd, who along with her five will sail from Seattle in summer local hang out known for fresh tonson98.com. LIVE ENTERTAINMENT or really any private event! Voted brothers were raised by her fa- While more than 111 countries “OK, we can land now.” With 2021 fully vaccinated. oysters and cold beer has grown SPECIALS DAILY Bric a` Brac Restaurant “Best Crab Cakes in Destin” five & Night Club By JoDell Haverfield, ther alone, being inspired by recognize Father’s Day on dif- my newly minted private pilot’s Israel: Tourism is back and into one of the most iconic “hot Endless Mimosa and Bloody See ad for bands and times. years in a row, Bric a` Brac is the Have Travel Memories attending a Mother’s Day cele- ferent dates, the U.S. plus 92 license in hand, I had wanted will be welcoming guests begin- spots” on the Destin Harbor. Mary Brunch featuring our Music schedule subject to Now celebrating seven amaz- Continued next page Father’s Day is a customary bration at church, convinced the other countries celebrate this him to be my first non-instruc- ning this month. From our humble beginning amazing chicken and waffles day for the celebration of fa- Spokane Ministerial Association special day on the third Sunday tor passenger. I’d planned to Many countries have been shucking oysters off the deck be- every Saturday and Sunday from therhood. In Catholic Europe, to celebrate Father’s Day world- in June. circle the Michigan State Uni- welcoming tourists for some hind a small trailer on the Destin 11am - 3pm. Father’s Day is known to date wide. However, it wasn’t named Below are great Father’s Day versity campus and come back time. But, before you go, make Harbor, AJ’s has grown to four LIVE ENTERTAINMENT LIVE M USIC! back to at least 1508. It is usu- a national holiday until Richard stories to put you in the mood: to the university-owned airport. sure you know the entry re- locations along Florida’s Emer- Live music every Sunday RAW BAR! Every Wed. 6-9 pm ally celebrated on March 19th Nixon signed it into law in 1972. The Hitchhiker’s Guide I reminded him of this, and quirements for each country in- ald Coast, serving the freshest Noon-3pm. Sunday - Thursday and Fri. 7-10 pm to Family by Rachel O’Con- I’ll never forget what Dad said, cluding the Bahamas, Jamaica, seafood, best live music and most (850) 842-3200 11 AM - 9 PM STICKY TOO nor, Westtown, New York more than 40 years ago: “I’m Turks, Caicos and the Caribbe- exciting water activities in the 125 Poinciana Blvd., “Linda, look at the map!” My not fond of small planes. I just an. Destin area. Serving up delicious Miramar Beach Friday & Saturday (Wednesdays) father slammed on the brakes, wanted you to know that I have We will be hosting a 9-night daily specials and entertaining Austonson98.com 11 AM - 10 PM glaring at my mom. He did not confidence in you.” Painting with a Twist cruise on live music every night, AJ’s Sea- HAPPY HOUR! Book Your Next food & Oyster Bar is where you Boathouse Oyster Bar believe in excessive planning, Still Here by Mary Ellen Celebrity to include an incredi- 3-6 pm Daily and so each summer we em- Raneri, Latrobe, Pennsylvania ble rate and extra perks, sailing want to be. Destin’s best kept secret— (850) 837-1913 it’s where the locals go with live Memory Today...… barked on a spontaneous family My dad sat straight up in bed from FLL September 17, 2021. Specialties include road trip that didn’t always go and smiled at me. Even though We will be going to Grand Cay- 116 Harbor Blvd., Destin music every night! Located in the heart of Destin on the Destin little neck clams, freshly shucked raw smoothly. There were lots of his mouth was crusted with fever man, Aruba, Curacao and Bo- ajsdestin.com Harbor, the Boathouse special- Home of the 102 ft. bar Here for You… And All of Your Travel Needs! late-night panics to find hotels, sores, he grinned a big grin from naire with 4 wonderful days at oysters, New England style clam chowder Austons on 98 izes in making oysters a delicacy. stops to ask for directions, and his unshaven face. Dementia sea. This a great post-Covid, including 32 beers on draft! and jumbo shrimp cocktail! JoDell Haverfield, Owner and CEO of Boathouse’s Gumbo recipe was elevated tempers. One night, we had completely taken him from girlfriend getaway or a romantic Offering a raw bar, happy Have Travel Memories Vacations, with over hour and live music, Austons written by Mama Gumbo her- picked up a hitchhiker some- me—or so I thought, until he cruise for two. Call me to book 25 years as a Travel Advisor, Accredited is home of the 102-foot bar in- self. And, of course, the oysters where in Kentucky. As we blast- spoke to me. “Honey,” Dad al- your space now! Cruise Councellor hosting cruises since cluding 32 beers on draft. Some are raw, steamed or baked just ed the radio and my dad bought most seemed to sing the words. Happy Father’s Day includ- 2002. Specializing in the Cruise and of the specialties include little the way you like ‘em! The first us all ice cream, the hitchhiker “What are you doing here?” My ing fathers to be out there! Kick River Cruise industry. Call or email me today and let your neck clams, freshly shucked raw Friday of every month the Boat- told me he’d give his life to have throat muscles ached from try- back, relax and start planning adventures begin... oysters, New England style clam house hosts locals on the Destin what I had. ing to talk and not cry. Choking your next trip. My husband, chowder and jumbo shrimp Harbor from 5pm – 7pm. Who JoDell Haverfield, CEO First In Flight by Kay back my tears, I half-sobbed, Dave, will be a great grandfa- cocktail! Sports fans, Auston’s wants a free keg? Bring a dona- (406) 544-8365 Direct Lockridge, Santa Fe, New Mex- “Daddy, I’m here to especially ther next month—a baby girl to is ready for you. There are big tion for the Emerald Coast Foun- (850) 608-3058 Office ico see you. I love you, you know.” be born to grandson Colin and screen TV’s all around, so not a dation to qualify for entry. The little Cessna had just “Me too, honey,” he whispered. his wife, Savannah. [email protected] bad seat in the house. Auston’s (850) 842-3200 | 125 Poinciana Blvd | Miramar Beach | austonson98.com www.havetravelmemories.com cleared the pattern in its climb to Then, still smiling, Daddy fell 1,500 feet when my father said, asleep. MEXICAN BREAKFAST SERVED Micheladas EVERY SATURDAY & SUNDAY MORNING! OPEN FOR LUNCH & DINNER DAILY Latin Supermarket, Taqueria & Cantina • Wills, Trusts, Estate Planning SPECIALTY MEATS SOLD HERE! • Corporation, LLCs, Taco Great selection available daily. We will grill your meats to Business Law perfection for you for only $1.99. Tuesday See the Gulf • Taxation law & Tax returns We off a diverse selection of food and groceries 10% LOCALS DISCOUNT • Contracts from different Latin-America countries! like you’ve never • Guardianship, Probate & LISA Y. SHORTS PITELL Estate Administration Now Hiring All Positions - Apply Within seen it before! ATTORNEY AT LAW Domingo Mi Genté 4591 Highway 20, Niceville, FL 32578 733 Harbor Blvd. • Destin 850.897.0045 | [email protected] Sunday 850-774-0991 (850) 842-2992 www.DestinHelicopters.com The hiring of a lawyer is an important decision that should not be based solely upon advertisements. Before you decide, ask us to send you free written information about our qualifications and experience. June 2021 Destin Life www.mydestinlife.com Page 21 Destin Dining, Entertainment, Specials

AJ’s Seafood & Oyster Bar on 98, of Nashville roots, also SPECIALS change. Follow us on FaceBook ing years in the Destin commu- Since 1984, AJ’s Seafood & features its very own “Real Deal Daily Lunch Specials M-F for updates! Enjoy… nity, colorful, eclectic fun is to be Oyster Bar has been serving cold Nashville Hot Sauce!” $9.99 (850) 837-3645 had at Bric a` Brac! They can Gulf Coast oysters and cool liba- Check out more specials, beer Slacker Sunday Oyster 288-B Harbor Blvd., Destin help with your parties, promo- tions. What began as a popular selections and a full menu at aus- Brunch – 11am boathouseoysterbardestin.com tions, birthdays, business events local hang out known for fresh tonson98.com. LIVE ENTERTAINMENT or really any private event! Voted oysters and cold beer has grown SPECIALS DAILY Bric a` Brac Restaurant “Best Crab Cakes in Destin” five into one of the most iconic “hot Endless Mimosa and Bloody See ad for bands and times. & Night Club years in a row, Bric a` Brac is the spots” on the Destin Harbor. Mary Brunch featuring our Music schedule subject to Now celebrating seven amaz- Continued next page From our humble beginning amazing chicken and waffles shucking oysters off the deck be- every Saturday and Sunday from hind a small trailer on the Destin 11am - 3pm. Harbor, AJ’s has grown to four LIVE ENTERTAINMENT LIVE M USIC! locations along Florida’s Emer- Live music every Sunday RAW BAR! Every Wed. 6-9 pm ald Coast, serving the freshest Noon-3pm. Sunday - Thursday and Fri. 7-10 pm seafood, best live music and most (850) 842-3200 exciting water activities in the 125 Poinciana Blvd., 11 AM - 9 PM STICKY TOO Destin area. Serving up delicious Miramar Beach Friday & Saturday (Wednesdays) daily specials and entertaining Austonson98.com 11 AM - 10 PM live music every night, AJ’s Sea- food & Oyster Bar is where you Boathouse Oyster Bar HAPPY HOUR! want to be. Destin’s best kept secret— 3-6 pm Daily (850) 837-1913 it’s where the locals go with live 116 Harbor Blvd., Destin music every night! Located in Specialties include ajsdestin.com the heart of Destin on the Destin little neck clams, freshly shucked raw Harbor, the Boathouse special- Home of the 102 ft. bar oysters, New England style clam chowder Austons on 98 izes in making oysters a delicacy. including 32 beers on draft! and jumbo shrimp cocktail! Offering a raw bar, happy Boathouse’s Gumbo recipe was hour and live music, Austons written by Mama Gumbo her- is home of the 102-foot bar in- self. And, of course, the oysters cluding 32 beers on draft. Some are raw, steamed or baked just of the specialties include little the way you like ‘em! The first neck clams, freshly shucked raw Friday of every month the Boat- oysters, New England style clam house hosts locals on the Destin chowder and jumbo shrimp Harbor from 5pm – 7pm. Who cocktail! Sports fans, Auston’s wants a free keg? Bring a dona- is ready for you. There are big tion for the Emerald Coast Foun- screen TV’s all around, so not a dation to qualify for entry. bad seat in the house. Auston’s (850) 842-3200 | 125 Poinciana Blvd | Miramar Beach | austonson98.com

MEXICAN BREAKFAST SERVED Micheladas EVERY SATURDAY & SUNDAY MORNING! OPEN FOR LUNCH & DINNER DAILY Latin Supermarket, Taqueria & Cantina SPECIALTY MEATS SOLD HERE! Taco Great selection available daily. We will grill your meats to perfection for you for only $1.99. Tuesday We off a diverse selection of food and groceries from different Latin-America countries! Now Hiring All Positions - Apply Within

Domingo Mi Genté Sunday 733 Harbor Blvd. • Destin (850) 842-2992 Page 22 Destin Life www.mydestinlife.com June 2021 Destin Dining, Entertainment, Specials for small groups, and the din- Choose from Jah’mon Jerk, Maui of seating for everyone and TV’s Mi Gente’ Supermarket amazing and diverse supermar- walk and harbor, Tailfins is your LIVE ENTERTAINMENT Everyone’s got a favorite…find ing area can be rented for larger Wowwie Mahi, Buffalo Chicken galore, plus fun and games all & Taqueria ket and fresh meat department go-to destination. With Huge Rusty Hammerstrom per- your Mexican food fave here in- groups for networking, luncheons and Baja Fish. Wednesday is week long. Sports fans from all Open for breakfast every Sat- where you can buy a variety of Big Screen TV’s everywhere you forms every Monday, Wednes- spired by years of tradition and and more. If you haven’t stopped flatbread special day. Enjoy $3 over come and watch all their fa- urday & Sunday and lunch and Latin America groceries to take look you can watch your favor- day & Friday. Daniel Boone is authentic spices such as the Te- in recently to check out the new off their five famous flatbreads. vorite teams on countless regional dinner 7 days a week, Mi Gente’ home. Get your fresh Tamales ite teams all season long while live every Tuesday, Thursday & quila’s Plate, Chili Con Carne, menu, be sure to make breakfast Pairs well with $3 house wine or and national sports networks in- is one of Destin’s hottest dining here! Open 7 days, 9am-9pm enjoying some of your absolute Saturday. The Three Amigos and the new or lunch plans soon! And don’t ½-priced bottles. cluding College and Pro Football, spots for the whole family and daily. favorite food and drinks all sum- (850) 650-1200 MASTER PARRILLADA—a forget the coffee! (850) 837-2999 Basketball and more. And there’s a friends to enjoy. With fresh ingre- SPECIALS mer long. Start your day off right On the Harbor in Destin, unique fusion of sports bar food (850) 424-6777 981 U.S. Hwy. 98, Destin fully stocked bar with 95 different dients and homemade recipes, Chili Relleno Tuesdays! with Tailfins breakfast every day 172 Harbor Blvd. and delightful Mexican dishes. 985 US-98 E, Destin islandwing.com bourbons and 30 beers on draft! this fun and festive restaurant Menudo Domingo de from 9am – 11am! Enjoy a clas- tailfinsdestin.com SPECIALS cafedestin.com SPECIALS will instantly capture your heart. Menudo Sundays! sic breakfast with bacon and eggs Celebrate Taco Tuesdays with true definition of something for 6pm to 9pm Landshark’s Pizza Weekly specials include music Serving up huge portions, you (850) 842-2992 or add a little flair to your morn- Tequila’s Sports Bar & Grill 2-4-1 Margaritas! everyone—a family friendly, kid (850) 424-6369 Island Wing Company Hey Sports Fans… Hungry, bingo on Tuesdays at 7pm; can choose from an incredible 733 Harbor Blvd., Destin ing with Chicken & Pancakes, a EAT, DRINK, FIESTA!! Lunch specials offered daily friendly, American-style restau- Shoreline Village Plaza, Grill & Bar Thirsty, maybe a little of both? Wingsday and Bourbon Club select menu offering a diverse se- www.restaurantji.com/fl/destin/ Seafood or Cajun Omelette and There’s always a sport in sea- Monday – Friday for $8.99. rant well known for its tasty and 824 Hwy 98 E, Destin Voted “Best Wings” four years Come in and visit Landshark’s Wednesdays! Award-winning lection of delicious food from dif- mi-gente-taqueria-and-supermarket-/ even a Kids Smiley Pancake! son all year long! Tequila’s is open Open seven days a week for colorful food selections served Bricabracdestin.com running, Island Wing Co. is call- Pizza. Owners Brian and Sue wings all you can eat for $.99 ferent Latin-America countries. SPECIALS and ready for you so on game lunch, dinner or call ahead to up in a fun, artsy atmosphere by ing your name. NOTHING is Hassmann have created the lo- cents each, and $2 off top shelf Taqueria Mi Gente’ is a treat you Tailfins Waterfront Grill Happy Hour Sushi: $5 Sake day or any day, stop in. Ready to place your take out and to-go Café Destin professional and friendly staff. fried! Everything is baked, grilled cals’ favorite pizza, buffalo wings bourbon selections! just have to experience for your- Announcing Tailfins Sushi & Bombs and $7 Select Sushi Rolls! shake it up a little? And we mean orders. Café Destin offers an ex- Locally-owned and operated or steamed! Come in and find and sports pub and bar that serves (850) 424-6743 self. Enjoy a drink from the can- Raw Bar, now open. Watch our Scrumptious Early Bird Din- literally – Tequila’s Sports Bar (850) 279.6402 panded menu serving breakfast since 2014 by twin brothers Ro- your favorite beer among the 58 great pizza AND awesome wings 300 Harbor Blvd., Destin tina, try a few tasty dishes on the world famous Sushi chef create ner Specials M-F from 4-6pm. and Grill has quickly become a 11225 U.S. 98 W., staples such as pancakes, waffles dolfo and Fernando Petit, their selections on tap or enjoy a cock- plus many other scrumptious eats landsharkspizza.com menu such as rich and flavorful! right in front of your eyes! If you Happy Hour from 4-6pm Mon. local favorite. Let them serve up Miramar Beach with Nutella, omelets, Eggs Bene- hands on, fun loving style, engag- tail and savor some of the tastiest for folks of all ages. There’s plenty Continued next page Quesa-Birria Tacos topped with haven’t tried our Sushi yet, you’re – Fri. featuring $17 Domestic some of their world class, jumbo tequilasmiramarbeach.com dicts, biscuits & gravy and more. ing charisma and true passion set food you’ve ever eaten. Are you fresh diced onion, cilantro and a missing out...absolutely the best Bottle Buckets and $7.99 Pitch- sized Margaritas, sure to set the For a lighter take, they also have a them apart. But it doesn’t stop ready for some sports? With Big squeeze of lime juice served with in town! Featuring multiple lev- ers, $5 House Wines and Well mood to watch your favorite variety of Fancy Toasts (avocado, there. Enjoy delicious locally-ap- screen TVs situated all around the broth on the side to dip your els of indoor and outdoor dining Drinks and $5 Long Island Iced game. Tequila’s has some of the salmon and more) along with proved entrées while you listen to the bar and restaurant, Island tacos! Take a walk through their overlooking the Destin Board- Teas. best seats in the neighborhood. some lively tunes, dance or sing pastries and muffins. For lunch, Wing Company invites you in to Bric à Brac along. There’s something for ev- choose from a variety of burgers, watch, cheer and enjoy the 2021 Family-Friendly, American-Style Seafood Restaurant eryone! sandwiches and salads. You will season. Need to feed the whole Locally Owned & Operated love the full-service coffee shop, SPECIALS family? Family meals to go with Voted Best Crab Cakes in Destin 11pm – 4am Latin Night Fri- offering everything from hot or Eat Lionfish curbside delivery has you cov- By SuSan Benton, Lionfish Tacos 3 limes, cut into wedges for ever, if you would like to pur- days & Saturdays – Music and iced fresh, local Amavida coffee ered. Your Island awaits you… Dancing upstairs/downstairs. to espresso and lattés. And there’s FREE Homemade Smoked Tuna Dip 30aeatS.com Ingredients garnish chase the whole fish and clean it SPECIALS w/purchase of 2 Adult Entrees (limit 1 per table) Lionfish is a sweet, light, white, 2 pounds lionfish (skinned, Cotija cheese crumbled (op- yourself, I would suggest you visit 18+ to enter, 21+ to drink. diverse fresh fruit smoothies and Daily Happy hour 3-7pm and GUYS $10, LADIES $5. a variety of tantalizing teas. flaky fish that has a firm texture boned and cleaned) cut into tional) https://lionfish.co/cleaning-and- 7pm-close. Happy Monday! Kids and has a taste somewhere be- 1-ounce strips Preparation preparing-lionfish-to-eat. LIVE ENTERTAINMENT Open for breakfast and lunch eat free. (Free kids meal with adult Thursday: Live Music from 7 days a week from 7am-2pm. tween grouper and mahi mahi. 2 cups all-purpose flour Whole Foods will clean the li- Cut the pieces of fish into entrée purchase) and Happy The fish itself has venomous 3 eggs, lightly beaten onfish, fillet it, remove the bones 1-ounce strips. Set up a cooking 6pm to 9pm and has free WiFi, encouraging Hour All day long. TWOsday Friday: Jones & Co from 7pm you to bring your laptops and spines, but the meat is not poison- 3 tablespoons cold water and even cut it into 1-ounce strips station of flour, lightly beaten was made for TACOS! Enjoy two ous. I really enjoy it lightly fried; 2 cups fine panko bread for you. They made cooking this eggs with water added, and then to 10pm work during the day. There’s tacos with reggae rice for $8.95 Saturday: Live Music from also a conference room available its incredible flavor is ideal for fish crumbs lionfish recipe a breeze. How- Continued on next page tacos. Unless you are a pro diver Sea salt and freshly ground or fisherman who is trained to black pepper Voted Best We’re Open for Dine In! spear lionfish, your best bet is to Vegetable oil, for frying buy it from your nearest seafood 1/2 head purple cabbage, Sports Bar! dealer. I was ecstatic to find local finely shredded 850-424-6369 | www.bricabracdestin.com lionfish in our Whole Foods sus- 1 bunch cilantro, leaves picked tainable seafood section. 1 bunch chives, chopped Amazing Food Fresh Seafood

NOW SERVING SUSHI & RAW BAR Happy Hour 4-6 Enjoy $7 Select Rolls

$9.99 LUNCH SPECIALS Monday thru Friday 11 am-3 pm Live Music EARLY BIRD DINNER SPECIALS on the Docks Monday - Friday 4-6 pm Daniel Boone VOTED BEST WINGS Fresh Catch $17.95 Rusty Hammerstrom New Orleans Cajun Shrimp $15.95 2016 - 2017 - 2018 - 2019 Kansas City Baby Back Ribs 1/2 Rack $12.95 | Full Rack $21.95 BREAKFAST 172 Harbor Blvd. Destin SERVED DAILY (850) 650-1200 | TailfinsDestin.com 7 Days a Week, 8 am until 11 am NHL | NBA | NCAA College Hoops on an Army of Big Screen TVs! June 2021 Destin Life www.mydestinlife.com Page 23 Destin Dining, Entertainment, Specials for small groups, and the din- Choose from Jah’mon Jerk, Maui of seating for everyone and TV’s Mi Gente’ Supermarket amazing and diverse supermar- walk and harbor, Tailfins is your LIVE ENTERTAINMENT Everyone’s got a favorite…find ing area can be rented for larger Wowwie Mahi, Buffalo Chicken galore, plus fun and games all & Taqueria ket and fresh meat department go-to destination. With Huge Rusty Hammerstrom per- your Mexican food fave here in- groups for networking, luncheons and Baja Fish. Wednesday is week long. Sports fans from all Open for breakfast every Sat- where you can buy a variety of Big Screen TV’s everywhere you forms every Monday, Wednes- spired by years of tradition and and more. If you haven’t stopped flatbread special day. Enjoy $3 over come and watch all their fa- urday & Sunday and lunch and Latin America groceries to take look you can watch your favor- day & Friday. Daniel Boone is authentic spices such as the Te- in recently to check out the new off their five famous flatbreads. vorite teams on countless regional dinner 7 days a week, Mi Gente’ home. Get your fresh Tamales ite teams all season long while live every Tuesday, Thursday & quila’s Plate, Chili Con Carne, menu, be sure to make breakfast Pairs well with $3 house wine or and national sports networks in- is one of Destin’s hottest dining here! Open 7 days, 9am-9pm enjoying some of your absolute Saturday. The Three Amigos and the new or lunch plans soon! And don’t ½-priced bottles. cluding College and Pro Football, spots for the whole family and daily. favorite food and drinks all sum- (850) 650-1200 MASTER PARRILLADA—a forget the coffee! (850) 837-2999 Basketball and more. And there’s a friends to enjoy. With fresh ingre- SPECIALS mer long. Start your day off right On the Harbor in Destin, unique fusion of sports bar food (850) 424-6777 981 U.S. Hwy. 98, Destin fully stocked bar with 95 different dients and homemade recipes, Chili Relleno Tuesdays! with Tailfins breakfast every day 172 Harbor Blvd. and delightful Mexican dishes. 985 US-98 E, Destin islandwing.com bourbons and 30 beers on draft! this fun and festive restaurant Menudo Domingo de from 9am – 11am! Enjoy a clas- tailfinsdestin.com SPECIALS cafedestin.com SPECIALS will instantly capture your heart. Menudo Sundays! sic breakfast with bacon and eggs Celebrate Taco Tuesdays with true definition of something for 6pm to 9pm Landshark’s Pizza Weekly specials include music Serving up huge portions, you (850) 842-2992 or add a little flair to your morn- Tequila’s Sports Bar & Grill 2-4-1 Margaritas! everyone—a family friendly, kid (850) 424-6369 Island Wing Company Hey Sports Fans… Hungry, bingo on Tuesdays at 7pm; can choose from an incredible 733 Harbor Blvd., Destin ing with Chicken & Pancakes, a EAT, DRINK, FIESTA!! Lunch specials offered daily friendly, American-style restau- Shoreline Village Plaza, Grill & Bar Thirsty, maybe a little of both? Wingsday and Bourbon Club select menu offering a diverse se- www.restaurantji.com/fl/destin/ Seafood or Cajun Omelette and There’s always a sport in sea- Monday – Friday for $8.99. rant well known for its tasty and 824 Hwy 98 E, Destin Voted “Best Wings” four years Come in and visit Landshark’s Wednesdays! Award-winning lection of delicious food from dif- mi-gente-taqueria-and-supermarket-/ even a Kids Smiley Pancake! son all year long! Tequila’s is open Open seven days a week for colorful food selections served Bricabracdestin.com running, Island Wing Co. is call- Pizza. Owners Brian and Sue wings all you can eat for $.99 ferent Latin-America countries. SPECIALS and ready for you so on game lunch, dinner or call ahead to up in a fun, artsy atmosphere by ing your name. NOTHING is Hassmann have created the lo- cents each, and $2 off top shelf Taqueria Mi Gente’ is a treat you Tailfins Waterfront Grill Happy Hour Sushi: $5 Sake day or any day, stop in. Ready to place your take out and to-go Café Destin professional and friendly staff. fried! Everything is baked, grilled cals’ favorite pizza, buffalo wings bourbon selections! just have to experience for your- Announcing Tailfins Sushi & Bombs and $7 Select Sushi Rolls! shake it up a little? And we mean orders. Café Destin offers an ex- Locally-owned and operated or steamed! Come in and find and sports pub and bar that serves (850) 424-6743 self. Enjoy a drink from the can- Raw Bar, now open. Watch our Scrumptious Early Bird Din- literally – Tequila’s Sports Bar (850) 279.6402 panded menu serving breakfast since 2014 by twin brothers Ro- your favorite beer among the 58 great pizza AND awesome wings 300 Harbor Blvd., Destin tina, try a few tasty dishes on the world famous Sushi chef create ner Specials M-F from 4-6pm. and Grill has quickly become a 11225 U.S. 98 W., staples such as pancakes, waffles dolfo and Fernando Petit, their selections on tap or enjoy a cock- plus many other scrumptious eats landsharkspizza.com menu such as rich and flavorful! right in front of your eyes! If you Happy Hour from 4-6pm Mon. local favorite. Let them serve up Miramar Beach with Nutella, omelets, Eggs Bene- hands on, fun loving style, engag- tail and savor some of the tastiest for folks of all ages. There’s plenty Continued next page Quesa-Birria Tacos topped with haven’t tried our Sushi yet, you’re – Fri. featuring $17 Domestic some of their world class, jumbo tequilasmiramarbeach.com dicts, biscuits & gravy and more. ing charisma and true passion set food you’ve ever eaten. Are you fresh diced onion, cilantro and a missing out...absolutely the best Bottle Buckets and $7.99 Pitch- sized Margaritas, sure to set the For a lighter take, they also have a them apart. But it doesn’t stop ready for some sports? With Big squeeze of lime juice served with in town! Featuring multiple lev- ers, $5 House Wines and Well mood to watch your favorite variety of Fancy Toasts (avocado, there. Enjoy delicious locally-ap- screen TVs situated all around the broth on the side to dip your els of indoor and outdoor dining Drinks and $5 Long Island Iced game. Tequila’s has some of the salmon and more) along with proved entrées while you listen to the bar and restaurant, Island tacos! Take a walk through their overlooking the Destin Board- Teas. best seats in the neighborhood. some lively tunes, dance or sing pastries and muffins. For lunch, Wing Company invites you in to Bric à Brac along. There’s something for ev- choose from a variety of burgers, watch, cheer and enjoy the 2021 Family-Friendly, American-Style Seafood Restaurant eryone! sandwiches and salads. You will season. Need to feed the whole Locally Owned & Operated love the full-service coffee shop, SPECIALS family? Family meals to go with Voted Best Crab Cakes in Destin 11pm – 4am Latin Night Fri- offering everything from hot or Eat Lionfish curbside delivery has you cov- By SuSan Benton, Lionfish Tacos 3 limes, cut into wedges for ever, if you would like to pur- days & Saturdays – Music and iced fresh, local Amavida coffee ered. Your Island awaits you… Dancing upstairs/downstairs. to espresso and lattés. And there’s FREE Homemade Smoked Tuna Dip 30aeatS.com Ingredients garnish chase the whole fish and clean it SPECIALS w/purchase of 2 Adult Entrees (limit 1 per table) Lionfish is a sweet, light, white, 2 pounds lionfish (skinned, Cotija cheese crumbled (op- yourself, I would suggest you visit 18+ to enter, 21+ to drink. diverse fresh fruit smoothies and Daily Happy hour 3-7pm and GUYS $10, LADIES $5. a variety of tantalizing teas. flaky fish that has a firm texture boned and cleaned) cut into tional) https://lionfish.co/cleaning-and- 7pm-close. Happy Monday! Kids and has a taste somewhere be- 1-ounce strips Preparation preparing-lionfish-to-eat. LIVE ENTERTAINMENT Open for breakfast and lunch eat free. (Free kids meal with adult Thursday: Live Music from 7 days a week from 7am-2pm. tween grouper and mahi mahi. 2 cups all-purpose flour Whole Foods will clean the li- Cut the pieces of fish into entrée purchase) and Happy The fish itself has venomous 3 eggs, lightly beaten onfish, fillet it, remove the bones 1-ounce strips. Set up a cooking 6pm to 9pm and has free WiFi, encouraging Hour All day long. TWOsday Friday: Jones & Co from 7pm you to bring your laptops and spines, but the meat is not poison- 3 tablespoons cold water and even cut it into 1-ounce strips station of flour, lightly beaten was made for TACOS! Enjoy two ous. I really enjoy it lightly fried; 2 cups fine panko bread for you. They made cooking this eggs with water added, and then to 10pm work during the day. There’s tacos with reggae rice for $8.95 Saturday: Live Music from also a conference room available its incredible flavor is ideal for fish crumbs lionfish recipe a breeze. How- Continued on next page tacos. Unless you are a pro diver Sea salt and freshly ground or fisherman who is trained to black pepper Voted Best We’re Open for Dine In! spear lionfish, your best bet is to Vegetable oil, for frying buy it from your nearest seafood 1/2 head purple cabbage, Sports Bar! dealer. I was ecstatic to find local finely shredded 850-424-6369 | www.bricabracdestin.com lionfish in our Whole Foods sus- 1 bunch cilantro, leaves picked tainable seafood section. 1 bunch chives, chopped Amazing Food Fresh Seafood

NOW SERVING SUSHI & RAW BAR Happy Hour 4-6 Enjoy $7 Select Rolls

$9.99 LUNCH SPECIALS Monday thru Friday 11 am-3 pm Live Music EARLY BIRD DINNER SPECIALS on the Docks Monday - Friday 4-6 pm Daniel Boone VOTED BEST WINGS Fresh Catch $17.95 Rusty Hammerstrom New Orleans Cajun Shrimp $15.95 2016 - 2017 - 2018 - 2019 Kansas City Baby Back Ribs 1/2 Rack $12.95 | Full Rack $21.95 BREAKFAST 172 Harbor Blvd. Destin SERVED DAILY (850) 650-1200 | TailfinsDestin.com 7 Days a Week, 8 am until 11 am NHL | NBA | NCAA College Hoops on an Army of Big Screen TVs! Page 2324 Destin Life www.mydestinlife.com June 2021 Off the Hook Divers and Fishermen Enjoying New Artificial Reef! Okaloosa County Sinks Retired U.S. Air Force Vessel A large 93-foot U.S. Air Force paring artificial reefs, County reef program creates excellent Each pin will display the exact steel-hull water training vessel, processes for vessel deployment sites for fishing, diving and snor- coordinates of the reef site as BIG DAWG, was sunk to the and guidelines specified in the keling activities that are easily well as helpful information and seafloor in 104 feet of water, 14 Army Corps of Engineers per- accessible to us locals as well instructions for each reef. miles southwest of the Destin mit. Once regulatory agencies as visitors. Our area’s artificial “Our destination is unique Pass on May 7. The vessel was were notified of final prepara- reefs consist of anything from and we’re fortunate to have the offered to Okaloosa County tions, a 14-day pre-deployment concrete piles to specifically de- opportunity to offer diverse rec- Staff in June 2020, soon after notice was issued, providing the signed modules and even large reation options for our citizens the official request was made. opportunity for final inspec- preparation to ensure the vessel shipwrecks. and visitors, through the Artifi- The county worked with Hurl- tions. A pre-deployment survey was clean and environmental- With Destin-Fort Walton cial Reef Program,” said Oka- burt Field and a local contractor was conducted of the seafloor ly friendly, a local contractor, Beach being home to the na- loosa Board of County Com- to transport the BIG DAWG to to ensure there were no natu- DreadKnot was hired to pre- tion’s largest charter fishing missioners Chairman Carolyn its final resting spot at the bot- ral bottom features, historic re- pare (clean), tow, cut holes and fleet, it’s no wonder that we have Ketchel. tom of the Gulf of Mexico. sources or existing artificial reef pump water into the vessel sink- one of the most active artificial Additional agencies onsite In the months before the reef material. ing it to the bottom. reef programs in the nation. Ev- for the deployment included was deployed, Okaloosa County Alex Fogg, Okaloosa Coun- Once the mission was com- ery year more artificial reefs are representatives from Okaloosa worked with DreadKnot Char- ty Coastal Resources Manager plete, divers inspected the new deployed off our coast. County Sheriff’s Office, Hurl- ters in transporting BIG DAWG with Destin-Fort Walton Beach reef and reported a perfect, You can select a pin and ex- burt Field, Eglin Air Force Base, to Choctawhatchee Bay for de- TDD managed the acquisi- upright landing with sea life al- plore artificial reefs sites at des- National Oceanic and Atmo- ployment preparations follow- tion, preparation and deploy- ready starting to gather. tinfwb.com/explore/ecotour- spheric Administration (NOAA) ing National guidance of pre- ment. After many months of Okaloosa County’s artificial ism-hotspots/artificial-reefs/. and US Coast Guard.

10,000 Lionfish Removed During Recent Lionfish Tourney In May, the Emerald Coast well as those throughout the in cash prizes and $25,000 in Lionfish. Team Bottom Time Open, the world’s largest lion- country, descended on Destin gear prizes. won the Largest Lionfish prize fish tournament, saw 10,250 li- for the tournament, which is The winning team was of $5,000 bringing in a lionfish onfish removed—a nearly 8,000 hosted by Destin-Fort Walton Capt. Josh Livingston that was 440 mm, or 17.32 inch- lionfish in the tournament’s Beach and Florida Fish and (DreadKnot Charters) and es. The Smallest Lionfish was two-day period and 2,505 li- Wildlife Conservation Com- Team Florida Man. Dread- 41mm, or 1.61 inches caught by onfish removed during the mission (FWC). Knot hauled in 1,371 lionfish team Into the Clouds and was pre-tournament competition. 145 individual hunters in just two days and won the the smallest lionfish caught in Locally-based scuba divers, as competed for over $48,000 PHOTO: JENS PETERSEN $10,000 top prize for Most Emerald Coast Open history.

EAT LIONFISH JUNE LIVE MUSIC! continued from previous page Mondays: 5pm Cole Jordan the seasoned bread crumbs. Sea- 9pm Roshambo son each station with salt and Tuesdays: 5pm Kyle LaMonica pepper. Dredge the pieces of A Locals Favorite For Over 30 Years! 8pm Austin Jennings fish in flour, egg, and then bread Wednesdays: 4pm Hunter & Tony crumbs and set aside on a clean dish. Once all the fish is breaded, 9pm Squeely Dan deep-fry in small batches in (375 Thursdays: 4pm Shane Curle degrees F) vegetable oil, and set 8pm Austin Jennings fish on paper towels on top of a Fridays: 4pm Jason Findley brown paper bag. (Tip: I keep my 8pm Airavata Whole Foods brown paper bags Saturdays: 12pm Kelly Byrd for this purpose. Great to absorb 8pm Gunner oil when frying bacon too.) Keep Sundays: 12pm Kelly Byrd warm until ready to serve. 4pm Jason Findley Serve the tacos family style 8pm Squeely Dan where everyone can add as much or as little to their taco as Open Daily from 11 am-2 am they wish. Assemble the fish in a Lunch Specials M-F for $9.99 pile on a plate; some chile sauce Slacker Sunday Oyster Brunch 11 am in a bowl; the Cotija cheese in a bowl; and salsa in another. Set a 288 Harbor Blvd, Destin pile of shredded purple cabbage, cilantro leaves, chopped chives (850) 837-3645 and lime wedges next to the fish. Facebook: www.facebook.com/BoathouseOysterBar Toast the corn tortillas lightly www.boathouseoysterbardestin.com over an open flame, or warm in a skillet and serve. Page 23 Destin Life www.mydestinlife.com June 2021 June 2021 Destin Life www.mydestinlife.com Page 25 Off the Hook Off the Hook Divers and Fishermen Enjoying New Artificial Reef! Off the Hook: Dolphins in Destin up to 20 m.p.h. and surface and use whistles and clicking the animal. The only way to noise like cheering or clapping, Okaloosa County Sinks Retired U.S. Air Force Vessel two-to-three times a minute to noises to communicate to each swim with a dolphin would be in and slapping the water if you’re A large 93-foot U.S. Air Force paring artificial reefs, County reef program creates excellent Each pin will display the exact breathe. other. Ask anyone who is on the protected water of a water park able to get close to it. Most days, steel-hull water training vessel, processes for vessel deployment sites for fishing, diving and snor- coordinates of the reef site as Dolphins are also considered water every day, and they’ll tell or training facility. you can even see them while ly- BIG DAWG, was sunk to the and guidelines specified in the keling activities that are easily well as helpful information and one of the most intelligent an- you that the dolphins know who If you’re a local or looking to ing or walking on the beach…if seafloor in 104 feet of water, 14 Army Corps of Engineers per- accessible to us locals as well instructions for each reef. imals. They learn quickly, so- they are; they remember them see some while you’re visiting, you’re looking. miles southwest of the Destin mit. Once regulatory agencies as visitors. Our area’s artificial “Our destination is unique cialize and play, and can also and come straight to the same Destin offers a variety of dol- Keep your eyes peeled, as Pass on May 7. The vessel was were notified of final prepara- reefs consist of anything from and we’re fortunate to have the recognize themselves in the mir- boats daily. phin tours, excursions and more these amazing creatures are offered to Okaloosa County tions, a 14-day pre-deployment concrete piles to specifically de- opportunity to offer diverse rec- ror. Another fun fact is that they While a lot of people want to to see these beautiful creatures. everywhere, and seeing them is Staff in June 2020, soon after notice was issued, providing the signed modules and even large reation options for our citizens By Cali Hvalac, have two stomachs; one to hold swim with dolphins when they They are most playful in the late exciting, no matter how many the official request was made. opportunity for final inspec- preparation to ensure the vessel shipwrecks. and visitors, through the Artifi- To Do In Destin the food and one to digest it. visit Destin, the dolphins are mornings, and sometimes late times you have before. The county worked with Hurl- tions. A pre-deployment survey was clean and environmental- With Destin-Fort Walton cial Reef Program,” said Oka- There are two types of locals On top of being intelligent, protected by the law. It is illegal afternoon through sunset, but burt Field and a local contractor was conducted of the seafloor ly friendly, a local contractor, Beach being home to the na- loosa Board of County Com- in Destin: Those that live on they can communicate with each to feed or touch a dolphin in the can be spotted most any time to transport the BIG DAWG to to ensure there were no natu- DreadKnot was hired to pre- tion’s largest charter fishing missioners Chairman Carolyn land, and those that live in the other, give each other names, wild, for the safety of you and of day. They respond to verbal its final resting spot at the bot- ral bottom features, historic re- pare (clean), tow, cut holes and fleet, it’s no wonder that we have Ketchel. water. Those in the water were tom of the Gulf of Mexico. sources or existing artificial reef pump water into the vessel sink- one of the most active artificial Additional agencies onsite here first, but graciously share In the months before the reef material. ing it to the bottom. reef programs in the nation. Ev- for the deployment included this area with us humans who was deployed, Okaloosa County Alex Fogg, Okaloosa Coun- Once the mission was com- ery year more artificial reefs are representatives from Okaloosa reside here and who vacation worked with DreadKnot Char- ty Coastal Resources Manager plete, divers inspected the new deployed off our coast. County Sheriff’s Office, Hurl- here. ters in transporting BIG DAWG with Destin-Fort Walton Beach reef and reported a perfect, You can select a pin and ex- burt Field, Eglin Air Force Base, to Choctawhatchee Bay for de- TDD managed the acquisi- upright landing with sea life al- plore artificial reefs sites at des- National Oceanic and Atmo- ployment preparations follow- tion, preparation and deploy- ready starting to gather. tinfwb.com/explore/ecotour- spheric Administration (NOAA) ing National guidance of pre- ment. After many months of Okaloosa County’s artificial ism-hotspots/artificial-reefs/. and US Coast Guard.  10,000 Lionfish Removed During Recent Lionfish Tourney  In May, the Emerald Coast well as those throughout the in cash prizes and $25,000 in Lionfish. Team Bottom Time  Open, the world’s largest lion- country, descended on Destin gear prizes. won the Largest Lionfish prize fish tournament, saw 10,250 li- for the tournament, which is The winning team was of $5,000 bringing in a lionfish  onfish removed—a nearly 8,000 hosted by Destin-Fort Walton Capt. Josh Livingston that was 440 mm, or 17.32 inch- lionfish in the tournament’s Beach and Florida Fish and (DreadKnot Charters) and es. The Smallest Lionfish was BESTIN BESTIN two-day period and 2,505 li- Wildlife Conservation Com- Team Florida Man. Dread- 41mm, or 1.61 inches caught by

DVIP DESTINESTIN MAGAZINE READER CHOICE AWARD 2018 onfish removed during the mission (FWC). Knot hauled in 1,371 lionfish team Into the Clouds and was DVIP DESTINESTIN MAGAZINE READER CHOICE AWARD 2019 pre-tournament competition. 145 individual hunters in just two days and won the the smallest lionfish caught in 180 Lynn Drive 9970 US Highway 98 W Locally-based scuba divers, as competed for over $48,000 PHOTO: JENS PETERSEN $10,000 top prize for Most Emerald Coast Open history. SRB, FL 32459 Miramar Beach, FL 32550

EAT LIONFISH JUNE LIVE MUSIC! continued from previous page Mondays: 5pm Cole Jordan the seasoned bread crumbs. Sea- 9pm Roshambo son each station with salt and 538 Eglin Pkwy NE | Fort Walton Beach Tuesdays: 5pm Kyle LaMonica pepper. Dredge the pieces of fish in flour, egg, and then bread 850.862.9111 A Locals Favorite For Over 30 Years! 8pm Austin Jennings www.captainschoiceboats.com Wednesdays: 4pm Hunter & Tony crumbs and set aside on a clean dish. Once all the fish is breaded, 9pm Squeely Dan deep-fry in small batches in (375 Thursdays: 4pm Shane Curle degrees F) vegetable oil, and set 10% OFF SUMMER SERVICE SPECIAL 10% OFF 8pm Austin Jennings fish on paper towels on top of a Fridays: 4pm Jason Findley brown paper bag. (Tip: I keep my It doesn’t take long once ar- 8pm Airavata Whole Foods brown paper bags riving in Destin to spot a pod Saturdays: 12pm Kelly Byrd for this purpose. Great to absorb of dolphins. They hang out in 8pm Gunner oil when frying bacon too.) Keep the Harbor, in the Destin Pass, Same Day Sundays: 12pm Kelly Byrd warm until ready to serve. in the Bay and in the Gulf of Mexico. You’ll see them cruise 4pm Jason Findley Serve the tacos family style Turn Around around, popping up to say hello, 8pm Squeely Dan where everyone can add as with appointment much or as little to their taco as chasing fish, and, if you’re lucky, even doing tricks like jumping Open Daily from 11 am-2 am they wish. Assemble the fish in a pile on a plate; some chile sauce out of the water and putting on Lunch Specials M-F for $9.99 a show. Slacker Sunday Oyster Brunch 11 am in a bowl; the Cotija cheese in a bowl; and salsa in another. Set a The most popular type of dolphin you’ll see here is the 288 Harbor Blvd, Destin pile of shredded purple cabbage, cilantro leaves, chopped chives Bottlenose dolphin. There are (850) 837-3645 and lime wedges next to the fish. more than 10,000 that reside in Facebook: www.facebook.com/BoathouseOysterBar Toast the corn tortillas lightly the Gulf of Mexico! They range www.boathouseoysterbardestin.com over an open flame, or warm in from 6-13 feet long, weight 300- Mention you saw this ad when you drop off your boat a skillet and serve. 1400 pounds and live 40-60 years. They are light gray to and you will receive a 10% DISCOUNT! white on their belly, can swim Page 26 Destin Life www.mydestinlife.com June 2021 Lifestyle What To Do Where with Dad on Father’s Day Here’s to all the great Destin you how to throw. For those 21 will give your dad and you added Dads out there with some ideas and over, you can bring your own speed and endurance. For a Dad you can really use! beer and wine if you want. Ages who likes to be shown around, Take Dad to dinner for 13+ are permitted. Open daily, gift him with one an Eventure some fresh seafood or one of his one hour of ax throwing is $30 Tour focusing on history, art and favorite dishes! Then hang out per person. Message Facebook. cuisine. Visit eventuretourco. for live music and fun! Check com/GulfCoastAxeHouse, email com. out the music and entertainment at [email protected] Is Your Dad Young At schedule and dinner specials in call 850-842-2890 to reserve Heart? With mini-golf, go-karts the Dining, Music and Entertain- your lane. or bumper rides and big thrills ment Guide in this Destin Life is- Take in a Father’s Day like bungee jumping and sky fly- sue, pages 21-23. ters (charterboatouttaline.com) (ages 4 – 12): $15 and Toddlers (3 Film. For a relaxing wind-down ing, you’ll have plenty of time Show your Dad a new and Lionstale Adventures (lion- and under): $5. Located at Har- from Father’s Day weekend, to be a kid again at The Track view with an exciting helicopter staleadventures.com) for your borwalk Village in Destin, book bring your lawn chairs out to Family Recreation Center. Visit ride! Check out destinhelicop- dad’s deep sea fishing experience! online at http://destinsnorkel. Baytowne Wharf ’s Events Plaza funatthetrack.com, Destin loca- ters.com or call (850)774-0991 Go Boating. With the Gulf com or call 850-269-2329. Lawn at Sandestin and settle in tion or call (850) 654-4668. to book your very own Destin of Mexico to the South and Snorkel with Dad: With a for a free film of “The Secret Life Create an Old-Fashioned beaches helicopter tour for mag- the Choctawhatchee Bay to the two-stop snorkeling tour, in three of Pets 2” at 8 p.m. Sunday. Memory with Ice Cream. nificent views of emerald green north, there is an abundance of hours, you’ll get to look for shells Go Stand Up Paddling Take you dad out for the ulti- waters and sugar white beaches waterways to explore. There are on the beach and shallow water Boarding. Take dad on a calm- mate ice cream sundae! Or start from the Harbor east along the several boat rental companies of the grassy flats in the Bay, ing, nature-based water expe- the day off with Parler doughnuts coast! 15 miles – $89 per person. in Destin that carry Pontoon to witness crab life, small fish, sea rience. On a Stand Up Paddle located at The Market Shops. Don’t forget the 10% locals dis- speed boats. horses, baby shrimp and a vari- Board, you all can paddle out in There’s definitely one to fit your count! How About Dolphin ety of sea life. Rate: $45. Located the Gulf to one of the new ar- dad’s tastes with coffee as well! Go Fishing. Destin isn’t Watching? A 90-minute Dol- at Harborwalk Village in Destin, tificial reefs or paddle a peaceful And last, but definitely not named the World’s Luckiest Fish- phin Cruise with Destin Snor- book online at http://destinsnor- coastal dune lake in the Bay. Dad least, spend time with your dad ing Village for no reason. With kel begins with a cruise of the kel.com or call 850-269-2329. might just slow down a little and on the golf course, beach or in one of the largest charter fishing Destin Harbor and then out the Throw an Ax with your enjoy this paddle boarding expe- the water! Destin has some of fleets in the country, take your Destin Pass to the Gulf of Mex- Dad: The latest trend, at the rience so conducive to our area, the finest courses around. Havea pick of near shore and deep- ico. Along the way, you should Gulf Coast Axe House in Mira- but especially if it’s with you! picnic, go for a walk, splash sea fishing opportunities for you see dolphin playing alongside mar Beach you can throw an ax Book an Electric Bike in the waves, rent a jet ski or and dad. Some recommenda- the boat. Dolphin Rates (tax in- from 11 a.m.-midnight. No ex- Tour. These fun pedal-assisted go parasailing…throw down tions include Outta Line Char- cluded) are Adults: $20, Children perience needed; coaches teach bikes tap into a battery pack that a good time!

EXCEPTIONAL SENIOR LIVING Have you reached the point in your life where you’re ready to leave the housekeeping, laundry and daily chores to someone else and enjoy life? Then Brookdale Destin is the place for you. Our assisted living and memory care community is located on Florida’s Emerald Coast, a tourist destination known for its white beaches and emerald green waters. It’s convenient to shopping and restaurants, and there’s not a chore in sight. As a resident you can jump into a busy social calendar and a life of leisure and independence while still receiving the personal assistance you need. Should your needs change over time, and you require memory care, you have the assurance of knowing you can remain here. You and your family will have peace of mind knowing that we have trained staff on-site 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

2400 Crystal Cove Ln, Destin, FL 32550 | (850) 267-1600 | www.brookdale.com June 2021 Destin Life www.mydestinlife.com Page 27 Wellness How Exercise Can Help Pain Management By Amy Milligan, CRYO850 the body’s natural home workouts. Email info@ resources based on your specific When you’re in pain, the last painkillers. Science cryo850.com if you would like needs. thing you want to do is to move shows an increases around- especially for a workout. your endorphin lev- However, movement is likely the els helps reduce pain IMPLANT, COSMETIC exact thing you need. Staying levels and also im- & FAMILY DENTISTRY sedentary results in stiffer joints proves mental health. Santa Rosa Beach | Bluewater Bay and limbs, thus increasing pain Miramar Beach Caicos Turquoise - PMS uncoated 7466 and making it more difficult to Reduces Weight Paparazzi Flash - PMS uncoated 7450 Gain recover. It can be a vicious cycle. $ per Silent Film - PMS uncoated 429 Gentle exercise like stretching or If you’re recover- unit therapeutic yoga can help keep ing from an injury or Botox 10 Aquifer - PMS uncoated 629 your joints moving so your body set back with a recent min 35 units Exp: 6/30/20 Dawn Gray - PMS uncoated Cool Gray 10 can heal. Here are a few benefits chronic pain condi- Must mention this ad at time of of mild exercise as it relates to tion, you’re likely less treatment. No exceptions. pain management: active than usual. A reduction of activi- Helps Circulation ty can cause weight • PDO Thread lift for brow lift, Waking up stiff or in pain, the gain weight, which facelift, jowl lift, and neck lift first few movements are always can sometimes ex- the hardest, but if you can get acerbate inflamma- • PDO smooth threads for your body moving and get your recovery but also help prevent tion. Exercise can help prevent collagen stimulation and blood pumping, you will inevi- injury. Since muscles take much weight gain and limit inflamma- wrinkle reduction tably start to feel better. Moving of the load off your bones and tion. your joints and limbs encourag- spine when it comes to support- Exercise is commonly recom- Dr. Amber Wiebe • Kybella for chin fat reduction es blood circulation, which can ing your weight, strengthening mended as a natural treatment ease pain related inflammation muscles helps to cushion hard for pain. Be gentle with your- DMD, MAGD, MAAFE • Botox • Fillers • Neck Botox and help expedite the healing movements. The stronger your self and don’t push too hard, process. muscles are, the more you’ll be but stay moving when you can. able to withstand. During these trying times, make National Strengthens Muscles sure to take the time for self- 850.267.0777 Strengthening your muscles Releases Endorphins care. There are thousands of re- Instructor www.destinbotox.com will not only help to speed along Exercise releases endorphins, sources on the internet for free Page 28 Destin Life www.mydestinlife.com June 2021

Wellness Accentuate the Negative This will be the ONLY starting position; hence why we University, a full-body eccentric time I encourage you to call it “resistance training.” The workout increased the resting focus on the negative. Bing positive is the first part of each metabolism in athletes by nine Crosby sings about accentuat- movement; so, the negative is percent and for no less than ing the positive, which is supe- the second part. Like Newton’s three hours following the exer- rior advice for your mental out- 3rd law of motion, for each ac- cise. So Ac-Cent-Tchu-Ate the look, but not necessarily when it tion there is an equal (in size) Negative, instead of the Posi- comes to training your muscles. and opposite (in direction) reac- tive—but only in this case! If you want to get the most tion. out of your toning and strength By definition, there are two A TRIBUTE TO MY workouts you will need to focus types of moving contractions: DAD: I believe that if it weren’t on “the negative.” The negative, Concentric (the positive) and Ec- for my sister, Lori, and my dad, when training, is the part where centric (the negative). In a con- I might have done something you resist the weight back to centric contraction, the muscle different for a living. My dad tension increases to meet the re- passed last year from compli- sistance as the muscle shortens. cations from a simple colon A Personal Trainer, Dedicated to Your Goals. During the eccentric contrac- surgery, but at the age of 84, -Taking New Clients- tion, the muscle lengthens while still worked out in his basement it’s still contracted and resisting workout area. I feel he was an Private/Tailored Instruction the workload. It is the breaking encouraging factor for keeping -One on One and Small Group Training force that directly opposes the ative yourself resisting a weight at it at any age and any limita- -Nutrition Help shortening of a muscle. The you couldn’t lift alone—but that tions. Thank you, Dad! Happy Call Lisa Turpin, Degreed & Certified Personal Trainer easiest understood example is a is on the extreme side. Father’s Day to all the men out biceps curl. As you lower your A safer way to use negative there that exercise with your arm in a biceps curl, that length- focused training is to slow way kids! Make it a point for them ening movement would be con- down on your negative contrac- to see you in your healthy life- sidered eccentric or negative. tion. For example, in the biceps style routine. You make a bigger The lifting of the weight is con- curl, curl the weight up one sec- impression than you probably Be Active, centric/positive. Other exam- ond, then take three to five+ realize. ples are: the downward motion seconds to lower it. Controlling Stay Active! of a squat, lowering the body in the weight back to starting posi- Lisa Turpin is a degreed and cer- a pull-up, downward motion of tion is the key. Negative/eccen- tified health and fitness lifestyle coach a push-up, lowering the weight tric workouts are used a lot in who has devoted her life to motivat- during a shoulder press, lower- rehabilitation and safer for the ing and strengthening the bodies and ing your body during a crunch, older population as well. ACL minds of others. With more than 20 unfolding your leg during a injuries, patellar tendonitis, years’ experience as a group exercise hamstring curl. muscle-tendon injuries, Osteo- leader and an independent personal Negative training is safer on penia, Sarcopenia, Tendinosis trainer in the Destin area, she is di- the joints, because the muscle and other repetitive stress inju- verse and extensively trained in clas- is contracted and protective. ries are some common medical sical and modern Pilates, lifestyle If you want substantial gains ailments that benefit from neg- management, personal training, group in muscle strength and size, ative focused training. Another exercise and post-rehabilitation. then you can have a partner or benefit is weight-loss by raising 850-974-2005 LisaTurpinFitness trainer help you with the lifting your metabolism. According phase; then you control the neg- to research from Wayne State

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Wellness Are You Happy with Your Testosterone Shots? metabolites of testosterone are appointments, lab draws, etc. REALLY still happy with your mone pellet therapy longer than any also hormones that can have With pellet therapy, we see testosterone shots? other provider in the region. He has major effects on the body in both our guys about two times a year been asked by BioTE to teach provid- beneficial and detrimental ways. and once we get your dosing di- Dr. Richard Chern, M.D. and Sue ers across the country on how to pro- Many of the issues that occurred aled in, we only need labs once a Griffin, ARNP specialize in hormone vide proper hormone therapy for both were because of over-dosing year. Hormone levels are consis- therapy for both men and women. D.r men and women. Dr. Richard Chern, and a lack of understanding of tent every day and it’s unheard Richard Chern, M.D. is the only M.D. is currently accepting new pa- the metabolism and full effects of to need additional medica- BioTE Platinum provider in the area tients so call today at 850-837-1271 of synthetic testosterone in the tions once optimized. So, are you and has been providing BioTE hor- for an appointment. body. Many men use weekly testos- terone cypionate injections to maintain their testosterone level. While this provides some benefit, Remember most men complain about the feeling young? By Dr. Richard Chern, M.D. common issues shots have. Shots Testosterone shots for men are absorbed based on time rath- Feel it AGAIN! have been used to treat testoster- er than blood flow. So, the first one deficiency for many years. days after a shot are typically There has also been a lot of bad amazing and most guys feel like press about using “testosterone” superman because of overly high in men, because previously, many levels. Unfortunately, this only Now offering men abused testosterone and lat- lasts for a day or two and these er faced consequences such as overly high levels are not only heart attacks, strokes, pulmonary bad for us but they also rapidly Weight Loss embolisms, sudden death and decrease. These days are typi- other health problems. We’ve all cally followed by two days where heard about “Roid Rage” and guys feel good. Then, the last few Treatment! have seen reports of domestic days are nearly always nonpro- abuse, murder and suicides all ductive and include increasing associated with testosterone. So, moodiness, fatigue and a lack BecauseBecause you you are are unique... unique... how is it possible that testoster- of desire to engage in the world. Dr. Richard Chern, MD one is good? Next, because of these swings 12889 Hwy 98W, Suite 107B There are several issues to in testosterone, estrogen quickly keep in mind with testosterone becomes difficult to control. The Three Years In A Row! Miramar Beach, FL • Anti-Aging• Anti-Aging use in the past. First, these is- hormonal ups and downs cause Thank you Destin! 850-837-1271 sues often occurred with dosages mood swings, tear-fullness, irrita- • Bio-identical• Bio-identical Hormones Hormones as high as 20x the natural levels bility, anger and other emotional found in humans. Second, all of disturbances. Levels on either thehormonerestorationcenter.com Replacement Replacement Therapy Therapy these reports are associated with side of optimal can cause erec- the use of synthetic versions of tile dysfunction. So, these swings • Dental• Dental testosterone. The medical com- often lead to additional medica- munity has known for decades tions such as anastrazol, Viagra, • Dermatology• Dermatology Because you are unique... that any synthetic testosterone or other medications to control WHAT IS COMPOUNDING? is associated with adverse effects issues that just don’t happen with Pharmaceutical compounding allows for your medical provider to Regina Jaquess, Pharm D • Gastroenterology• Gastroenterology such as strokes, heart attacks, pellet therapy. Then, of course, provide specialized treatment. We can formulate your prescriptions USA Water Ski team member to meet your individual needs. sudden death and more. This in- there are the general issues of and ten time World Champion • Infertility• Infertility cludes the most commonly pre- remembering to take your week- The need for compounding is endless. Below are a few topics that scribed testosterone cypionate. ly injections, constantly going to Emerald Coast Compounding Rx handles on a daily basis. and World Records • Men’s• Men’s and and Women’s Women’s Health Health in both slalom and overall Third, breakdown products or the pharmacy, multiple doctor HORMONE AND THYROID REPLACEMENT THERAPY DERMATOLOGY | PAIN MANAGEMENT www.reginajaquess.com • Pain• Pain Management Management Kimberly P. Hood, MD • Pediatric• Pediatric DPC GYN ReginaRegina Jaquess, Jaquess, Pharm Pharm D D • Podiatry• Podiatry Visit: www.DPCGYN2020.com • Sports• Sports medicine medicine • Anti-Aging Because• Men’syou are and unique... 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Wellness Diabetes: Ways to Manage and Prevent It bodies and what can we do to lular structures. And oxidative sistance. When the majority of • Soda drinks stop it? damage and inflammation are receptors are damaged, Type II • Candy Let’s start with descriptions. the underlying pathology to Diabetes occurs. • Most cereals and pastas Type I Diabetes is when the pan- nearly every chronic degener- Here’s the bad news. Drugs • Corn, potatoes and peas creas does not produce enough ative disease such as cardiovas- are given to reduce blood sug- • Chips and Ice Cream insulin to push the glucose into cular disease, diabetes, Alzhei- ar levels, or insulin is injected • Dried Fruit and snack bars the mitochondria of the cell to mer’s etc. It depends on which to overwhelm the keyholes in • Take a full-spectrum of be used for energy. Type II is tissues and organs are being order to force the glucose into high-quality vitamins, minerals, when the insulin receptors be- damaged. the cell. And, any rapid rise of essential fatty acids and antiox- come ‘rusty’ or ‘misshaped’ and Now, it’s time to paint a pic- insulin either from an injection idants every day (nutraceuticals) the glucose is unable to enter ture in your mind. Picture a cell or eating a high glycemic meal • Exercise the cell. with a little key hole or door causes more oxidative damage. • Reduce stress Everyone has heard of an- (receptors) and keys, which are Now for the good news. Our • Get adequate sleep tioxidants. These are the com- the insulin being released from cells are continually making new Remember, our health jour- By Kay Leaman, bat troops that fight the enemy the pancreas. When we eat, insulin receptors (key holes)! neys are about progress, not Health Architect of oxidation or oxidative stress. these keys take the glucose and This means that a diagnosis of perfection. It’s not a matter of Most of us know that dia- Simply put, this occurs when unlock the door, so the glucose Type II Diabetes does not have ‘I can’t’. Everything we do is a betes = insulin resistance. But molecules with unpaired elec- can enter the mitochondria in to be permanent if we do our CHOICE—so, choose wisely. what does that really mean? trons (known as free radicals) the cell and turn it into energy. part. So, what can we do to help Please contact me, Kay Lea- What is happening inside our steal electrons from other cel- However, when these key holes our bodies in the fight against man, if you have any questions are damaged due to oxidation oxidative stress? at HealthyDay HealthyLife, the key can no longer open it. • Lower intake of high gly- succeed@healthydayhealthylife. AN EFFECTIVE In other words, the key hole be- cemic foods: Breads, pretzels, com. Alternative comes rusty or misshaped. This crackers, bagels, etc.) Flour TO SURGERY process is known as insulin re- products are not our friends. Heal your back and joints with Prolotherapy, Platelet Rich Plasma Treatment & Stem Cell Therapy “proven safe and effective, less invasive, time and money savers” Medical Marijuana Therapy Self-Care Corner: Male enhancement and erectile dysfunction, stress incontinence in women, using Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) Why Men Should Visit the Spa By Krisy Anderson shape of their facial hair with SPINE & JOINT LLC In today’s world, it’s a myth razor-sharp precision. Sheila Mohammed, MD, PhD that a spa is just for the ladies. In Massages are not just for Specialized in Orthopedic Regenerative Medicine and Toxicology more recent years, approximate- women; your dad, husband or 850-281-8186 ly 47% of spa-goers were men! brother deserves an unwind, Dr.SheilaMohammed.com Males have finally realized that too. A massage has incredible grooming and taking care of benefits for your physique and their appearance is a means of soothes your sore muscles more FEEL LIKE A STAR! style. Trimmed facial hair, clean than just stretching after a work- cut nails and hair, you name it, defined look. It also allows more out. men are all for it. time to do other things, like The now-dubbed “man- More and more, men are work or go to the gym or meet ly-cure” is another spa treat- flocking to the spa for male-spe- with friends, rather than stuck ment that’s gaining ground with cific options, such as scrubs and in front of the bathroom mirror the guys. Clean, cut and shaped waxing. Waxes for the chest, tediously shaving away. Unique nails on both hands and toes are back or face are one of the top and ultra-defined facial hair is both professional-looking and choices for a men’s spa trip. It another favorite trend for men help with your cuticle health. lasts longer than shaving and right now. Waxing gives them Scrubs for men are an excel- gives your body a cleaner, more the option of fine-combing the lent way of maintaining clean and healthy skin with exfoliating dead skin cells from the body. Men, in particular, are drawn FULL SERVICE DAY SPA SERVICES: to this spa treatment. Not only is it a pleasant feeling to have • Massages • Manicures clean, smooth skin, but it’s also • Skin Care • Pedicures Journey Bravely • Couples’ Treatments • Body Treatments great for confidence and physi- • Teeth Whitening • Makeup | Waxing cal mentality. COUNSELING & COACHING For Father’s Day, pamper your 10% off Rezenerate, Dermazen or Hydra Facials dad, brother, husband or son at Stephenie Craig, LCSW the spa! Drop into Beverly Hills Hours: Tuesday - Saturday 10am - 5pm Therapist Day Spa or visit online and pur- Closed Sunday and Monday 918-221-9987 | [email protected] chase a gift certificate available for Our goal is for you to feel like a star during and after your visit! Todd Craig pickup during normal business Life & Leadership Coach hours. Visit www.beverlyhillsday- 114 PALMETTO DRIVE, SUITE 6, DESTIN, FLORIDA 918-740-1232 | [email protected] spa.com or call me at (850) 654- (850) 654-8544 | BeverlyHillsDaySpa.com 8544. 114 Palmetto Dr., Suite 6, Purchase gift cards in store or on our website! www.journeybravely.com Destin, 32541, on Tuesday – Sat- urday 10 a.m.- 5 p.m. June 2021 Destin Life www.mydestinlife.com Page 31

Wellness Here We Go Again home, all you wanted was to some activities can feel hard and get out and about. And per- sad. It’s ok to grieve the reality haps now that life is returning that you aren’t superhuman and to a busy pace, you may find have time and energy limits. Try yourself wishing for some relax reminding yourself that every- time at home. It’s easy to feel one has limits and a lower stress enslaved to your circumstances, life brings goodness to your wishing things could be differ- physical/emotional health, your ent, but feeling out of control of relationships, and your overall how you live out your time and enjoyment of life. priorities. What if there was a Live out your yes and no: way to take the lessons from the As you step back from excessive slower pace of life and apply activity/obligations and begin By Stephenie Craig, them to create a more balanced to say no, give yourself time and Journey Bravely life now? What can you do to freedom to live into the space Last Spring brought a slow- find the balance you’re looking you’ve created. Slow down, re- er pace, uncertainty, space and for? Are you saying yes when you no: As you reflect on your stress lax, breathe deeply, and be pres- more time at home. This Spring want to say no? Are you making patterns and what was life-giv- ent in the moment. Detoxing has brought the return to many 5 Ways to Create decisions to please others? Are ing to you at a slower pace of life, from busyness might be uncom- things that have been on indefi- Intentional Life Balance: you doing too much of some- sort your current life priorities/ fortable at first, but your life will nite pause including back to the Notice and name stress- thing or not enough of another? activities into yes and no catego- thank you. office, back to the school build- ors: Notice tension or upset in Give yourself permis- ries. Remember that sometimes ing, back to sports, back to in your body. This could be muscle sion to evaluate: What did you may believe everything has Try to suspend judgment and person church. And while it was soreness, headaches, stomach- you love about having to slow to be a yes because people are offer yourself grace as you de- strange figuring out how to nav- aches, tight chest, fatigue, irri- down during the pandemic? counting on you. However, you cide what pace of life feels best igate the slower pandemic pace tability. Slow down and identify What did you find relaxing and will be more likely to show up to you in the coming weeks and of life, it’s also strange suddenly the source of tension. Your body life-giving? What did you miss? as a better, more present, enjoy- months. And, remember that finding yourself busy, wishing is trying to communicate with What were the top priority ac- able version of yourself if you what works for someone else for more down time, and emo- you. Are you over scheduled? tivities you returned to as soon limit your life commitments to may not be the path that works tionally fatigued from adjusting Are you isolated? Are you mak- as possible? What were the very things that are most important for you. You can connect with back to significantly more in ing decisions out of either fear last things you returned to and to you. us at journeybravely.com as you person interactions. or rebellion? Are you at odds in why? Create space for feelings move along your journey. When you were stuck at your important relationships? Sort your yes and your and honesty: Letting go of Page 32 Destin Life www.mydestinlife.com June 2021 Business Leveraging Your Time can live without it, eliminate it. liferation of apps and relatively “The key is in not spend- —Stephen Covey Can it be automated? Lever- inexpensive technology available ing time, but investing it.” age technology to free up time. to businesses. Can it be delegated? You Good business leaders think of are a leader; lead by doing the time in the same way they think important stuff and delegate the of money. Benjamin Franklin rest. said, “Time is money.” So, what Does it have to be done now? is the value of freeing up time? If not, recycle it back to step 1. The question you should ask is, Much has been written and what is the value of lost time? said about steps 1, 3 and 4. The Rory Vaden put it this way, first and last steps are simple “Automation is to time what matters of priority whereas step compound interest is to mon-

By Ricky Harper, C12 Theophrastus said, “Time is the most valuable thing a man can spend.” Last summer I at- tended the 2020 GLS (Global Leadership Summit) which is a two-day simulcast conference held every August and attended by more than 400,000 people around the world. The GLS is a conference that I consider es- three, delegation, is a deep and ey.” Wow! Think about that. You AN EXECUTIVE OFFICE SUITE sential to re-charging my leader- often misunderstood topic that I would never invest money for ship batteries during our long hot will dive into another day. simple interest when compound IN THE HEART OF DESTIN. summers. Of automation Mr. Vaden interest is available. Think of One of the speakers was Rory says, “Always ask yourself if time in the same way. By freeing Come and go as you please and always Vaden, noted consultant and something you are tasked with up your time, you are getting div- know you have the best office in town. bestselling author of Procrasti- can be automated?” That is a idends on the time saved, several nate on Purpose, Five Permis- challenging thing to ask busi- times over. Now think about free- sions to Multiply Your Time. ness owners and leaders to do. ing up your time, your C-staff’s (850) 974-3435 In his presentation, Mr. Vaden Automation takes time, plan- time, your admin’s time, your [email protected] outlined four basic steps of time ning and money so leaders may employees time. Destin Commerce Center management; he said that when expect the ROI on that decision So, why are you not finding 34990 Emerald Coast Pkwy, Suite 300, Destin a new task hits your desk always to be minimal. But that may be ways to automate? And please ask yourself four questions… a short-sighted view of automa- don’t tell me it’s because you www.TheBeachWorx.com Can it be eliminated? If you tion, especially given today’s pro- don’t have time!

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VacationHOLD BOOKING FOR ONLY Per $98 Person Shelly Leugers [email protected] (850) 293-6661 Totally4UTravel.com C12Group.com Additional protocol and guaranteed cleanliness standards to ensure Call heightened health and safety Ricky Harper | Chair measures for guests Your peers can help you build 850.510.5771 a great business for a greater purpose. [email protected] June 2021 Destin Life www.mydestinlife.com Page 33 Business Owner of AJ’s Seafood & Oyster Bar Ranked One of the Country’s Most Influential Restaurant Executives In 2020, readers of “Nation’s Restaurant News” had a chance to weigh in on who they consid- ered leaders in the restaurant in- dustry. The people have spoken and Destin’s own Alan Laird, owner of AJ’s Seafood & Oyster Bar, ranked number 37 out of 500 submissions in the category for “Most Influential Restaurant Executives in the Country” on its “Power List 2020.” “Nation’s Restaurant News” released its selections for its an- nual “Power List Reader Picks” in February 2021 and Alan was thrilled and honored to be rec- Alan Laird, Owner, AJ’s Seafood and ognized and to join some of the Oyster Bar DB, MSB of Destin LLC top players in the restaurant in- dustry. This year’s list focused on leadership and nominees ranged from restaurant CEOs and chefs to store managers who are making an impact through few years and is excited about local lists that include “Best of innovation. AJ’s branded vodka and two dif- the Emerald Coast,” and “Best So, what’s Alan secret to ferent beers brewed exclusive- of South Walton.” It’s also re- success? It’s a pretty simple for- ly for AJ’s by Props Craft Beer ceived national recognition mula. Alan believes that it all based in Ft. Walton Beach and from “Nightclub and Bar Mag- hinges on good communication Niceville. These products are azine” as one of “America’s Top between staff and being polite to without this great team behind he has four restaurant locations available at all AJ’s locations, 100 Nightclubs in the United customers and each other. me,” he says. “I appreciate that on our beautiful Emerald Coast, as well as local restaurants and States.” “When customers come they have helped me to continue and a 55-acre farm where he stores throughout Northwest For more information about in, say ‘hello.’ Thank them for to stand out among restaurant raises Black Angus, Waygu cat- Florida. AJ’s Seafood & Oyster Bar, visit coming in when they’re on their executives across the country.” tle and seasonal produce that he ajsdestin.com. way out and ask if they enjoyed Alan, a Florida native, was uses in these restaurants. The About AJ’s Seafood For more information about everything. Invite them to come born and raised in the state’s latest addition is a public market & Oyster Bar “Nation’s Restaurant News” back in,” he says. panhandle, and has worked in in Destin, AJ’s Specialty Meats AJ’s Seafood & Oyster Bar Power List 2020, visit www. Alan has remained true restaurants all his life. In 1984, and Gourmet Market, that sells serves the freshest seafood and nrn.com/people/most-influen- to this basic philosophy since he opened the first AJ’s Seafood locally-sourced meats and pro- mixed drinks along the beautiful tial-restaurant-executives-coun- opening his doors in 1984 and & Oyster Bar in Destin. It start- duce. Emerald Coast. It has live enter- try-chosen-nation-s-restau- apparently, it’s paid off. ed out as a small burger and oys- Alan has also broken out into tainment seven days a week and rant-news-readers. “I wouldn’t be here today ter joint that sold beer. Today, beverage branding over the past has been recognized on many Page 34 Destin Life www.mydestinlife.com June 2021 Business “The Gabby Bruce” Award: You Make a Difference By Donna Montalvo nesses during 2021 that have Many locals will remember made a difference in our com- long-time Destin resident and munity in Gabby’s honor. friend Gabby Bruce. A2Z (A2Z These businesses will be Specialty Advertising, Inc.) is recognized for delivering high continuing to keep his memory performance to their customers alive, celebrating his life by giv- and going above and beyond ing back to our community. to help other businesses and/or Gabby was all about making non-profits. a difference in our communi- Each month the A2Z Team ty, and we want to continue his will select a local business to rec- legacy by helping businesses ognize its impact on our com- who have been there for others. munity. They will receive “The Gabby served on many boards Gabby Bruce You Make A Dif- throughout the years, carved ference” award and a $300 cred- turkeys on Thanksgiving at Har- it for promotional products of Twisted Grape Café & Wine Bar bor Docks to serve meals to the their choice. We will also high- Perry (Gabby) Lloyd – Gabby L. Bruce, community, was the emcee at the light their business on our social Our first “Gabby Award” al for them and the people who Bruce III 76, died March 7, 2020. Fol- Mullet Festival for 35 years and media including pictures, infor- winner was Twisted Grape Cafe work there. Beyond their vol- lowing a love of music, a magnetic worked with many non-profit mation about their business, and & Wine Bar in Shalimar. They unteerism, SimpleHR delivers personality and an unmistakably organizations. what they have done to support are all about Good Wine, Good comprehensive human resource distinctive voice, Gabby found him- For these reasons and many our community. Their business Food & Good Friends! Anoth- solutions and administrative self on the Emerald Coast dredging more, we are launching “The will be highlighted in Destin Life er passion is their local fund relief for busy business owners a 30-year path in the radio and Gabby Bruce You Make A Dif- each month and announced on raising as Twisted Grape has who wish to spend more time on music industry where his accom- ference” recognition program. Cumulus Radio as well as an in- continuously given back to the their core business and less time plishments and ventures included: We will celebrate 12 local busi- terview with Diamond Dan. community over the years. They on employer obligations. Sim- host of a number one rated morn- have raised money for PAWS, pleHR provides human resourc- ing show, producer and co-writer SOCKS, Shelter House and es, benefits, payroll administra- of several billboard charting songs, Food for Vets (to name a few). tion, workers’ compensation, emcee and organizer of the Mullet affordable care act guidance, Festival, and even served as a loca- safety consultation, talent acqui- tion scout and publicist for the mov- sition, payroll taxes and corpo- ie Jaws 2, leading many to refer to rate filings for its clients, always him as a “local legend,” which he keeping in mind their mission to would always shrug off, but abso- maintain the highest standards lutely embodied. During his career in all they do. in the entertainment business, Gab- We look forward to announc- by met and married Deborah Bour- ing more “Gabby Award” win- que Bruce, with whom he spent the ners. Stay tuned on how you can remaining 34 years of his life hap- nominate a business by listening pily married. In 1997, sensing the to Cumulus Radio during the forthcoming changes in terrestrial week on NASH 105.5, Coast radio, he changed career paths and 93.3 and NewsTalk 1260. purchased A2Z Specialty Adver- “Team Gabby” is so excited tising, Inc. which he owned for the about this new program as it Simple HR remainder of his life, designing and gives Gabby Bruce’s A2Z Spe- producing shirts, koozies, keychains Our second “Gabby Award” cialty Advertising, Inc. a way and any other promotional products winner went to SimpleHR in to continue to make an impact available to local businesses. In ad- Destin. SimpleHR has served with our local businesses in the dition to his wife, he was survived the communities along Flor- community he loved so much. by his daughter, Patti Duckworth, ida’s Emerald Coast for 18 We were all lucky enough to of Athens, Georgia; Sister-in-law years. They continue to focus always have Gabby out there Pam Schweickert and her husband on giving back through volun- making an impact in so many, Bud, niece Kelby Cramblet and her teerism, corporate philanthropy many ways! husband Jared, and in-laws Ray and knowledge-based resources. and Joanne Bourque, all of Destin. Giving back is business as usu-

Hometown Biz Spotlight is sponsored by A2Z Specialty Advertising! This Month’s Special: Your local, one-stop place for promotional products and ad specialties Folding Cooler Mugs • Pens • T-Shirts • Sunscreen • Lanyards • Hand Sanitizer ALL with your company or organization logo! Chair/Stool Low minimum of 10 More than 3,000 suppliers! Boost ROI and leave a lasting impression with your customers! $25.93 each Call Donna Montalvo (reg. $35.93) 850-974-2869 | [email protected] No set-up charge ($55 value) www.a2zdestin.com Valid until August 1, 2021 June 2021 Destin Life www.mydestinlife.com Page 35 Business Local Pro: Dana Jolman, The Porch Life Boutique By Lori Leath Smith owned business let me infiltrate ning of it all,” says Dana. “Now, Dana Jolman and her hus- their circle. They are a joy to everyone that works here is su- band, Dustin, (also her high work for.” per creative and just wants to school sweetheart) found their Founded in 2016 by owners share their knowledge on deco- way to our area when stationed Kenny and Jennifer Bray, this rating, plants or just offer ideas here at the beginning of Dustin’s unique Boutique carries a wide for your home.” career. As a military wife and array of classy, sometimes whim- The Porch Life Boutique is mom of four, Dana and her sical and specialty products for also involved in the community family have come full circle after the home and garden. “We of- helping to support other small having been transferred several fer handmade furniture, hand businesses. For example, hand- times now, relocating to South poured candles, pillows, rain made furniture as well as the Dakota, Germany, Ohio and gauges, wind spinners, indoor Boutique’s hand poured candles back, and luckily for us, have de- and outdoor plants, bird feeders are purchased from a local artist cided to stay in the area. and houses, and tons of decora- in Panama City with much of Dustin has served almost 20 tive pots, planters and huge out- the artist’s proceeds funneling years in the EOD field and Da- door statues that are scattered back into the community to con- na’s interests include keeping throughout our nursery,” says tinue to help rebuild after hur- up with the kids. Beyond that, Dana. “We also offer different ricanes. “We want to help other she thrives on caring for indoor gift ideas than just your regular small businesses thrive,” says plants as well as tending to out- run-of-the-mill items and we try Dana. door gardening. “I pretty much to keep it eccentric. We want you Dana says she hopes readers enjoy any craft; some of my cre- to have a unique yard compared will seek out local shops, includ- ations are actually in the store.” to your neighbors. So, we don’t ing theirs. “I promise you,” she As Retail Manager and so- we don’t order in bulk from the says, “you won’t be disappoint- cial media marketing manager big box stores, because we want ed; we are different from your for The Porch Life Boutique, everyone’s space to be uniquely larger stores with new offerings her job is multi-faceted. “I get theirs.” all the time. So, come in, stroll to utilize so many aspects of my The idea for the Boutique the store, head out to the nurs- personal loves such as creativity came from Jennifer and their ery and ask all the questions you with setting up our unique dis- daughter, Jessica. Kenny owns need to find the perfect gift, plant plays and my business degree the parent company, K&R Cuts or other item. We love getting to training by doing the manageri- But what Dana really likes ing The Porch Life customers Landscaping and felt a show- know our customers and even al tasks,” says Dana. the most about her job is servic- and really getting to know them room would be valuable to his just one visit makes you a part of on a personal level. “Most peo- customers; there they could The Porch Life Family.” Open ple will tell you I’ve never met a display ways to spruce up your 9 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. weekdays; 8 Want to know the Value of YOUR home here on the stranger. So, to be able to inter- porch after landscaping work a.m. – 4 p.m. Saturdays; and 9 Emerald Coast? Find out! Go to: www.DestinAgentGail.com act and help others be creative was completed. “They started a.m. – 3 p.m. Sundays. 100 Old is a dream for me, and I’m so it as a way to showcase ideas for Milligan Rd., Crestview 32536. Ok...Pick a Number! grateful that this small family others, and that was the begin- (850) 689-1497. ANY Number... Ok...Roll the Dice! With 3400+ of us in our local association, selecting your Real Estate Agent shouldn’t just be a roll of the dice…should it? After all, you’re dealing with one of your biggest investments, right? Before you make this BIG decision, ask the agent:

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Don’t Wait… Call Gail TODAY! Open Monday-Friday 9-4:30, 850.374.0454 Saturday 8-4 and Sunday 9-3 2020 Finest on [email protected] The Emerald Coast www.GailPelto.com Outdoor Furnishings Not ready today? Clip this ad and keep it with your house Interior Design Store papers. I’ll be here when you’re ready! theporchlifeboutique Page 36 Destin Life www.mydestinlife.com June 2021 Business Filing an Insurance Claim DIY #ClaimHacks been taken care of. That’s AMAZING! So, why would I This hack can save your say that being a public adjust- claim from so many issues that er? Because the role of a pub- could come up at any given lic adjuster is primarily to act time. A good claim can fall off as a bridge or conduit between the rails real quick. The work two parties helping them reach on this is simple and easy – get an amicable resolution. And, if yourself a claim diary and use two parties come to an amica- it every time you have a con- ble solution without the need versation with anyone in the of my services, then that real- claims process. The key howev- ly is AMAZING!! That means er, is that this needs to be done they’re happy (hopefully)! in real time, as the conversation In the insurance world, is happening, making it con- By Matthew Vanderford, most of the people I meet want temporaneos. A pen and paper Claimology claims paid out quickly and fair- work best, but you can use your Filing claims isn’t a hard ly. Because that’s what makes smartphone, too – place the thing to do. I mean people file people happy – quick and fair phone on speaker or use a head- claims all the time without help treatment. Issues tend to come set and use whatever app you or guidance and feel they’ve up when claims get lost or mis- like to take notes with. Just make handled, underpaid or denied. Contemporaneous Definition: -ad sure to save your notes with a So, here’s a little #CLAIM- jective: contemporaneous photo back up, email them to HACK for all you claim filing existing or occurring in the same yourself and save it to the cloud CLAIMOLOGY DIY’ers out there: period of time. somewhere (that’s triple redun- “The art and science of fair claim settlements” Take contemporaneos claim “Pythagoras was contemporaneous dancy for the real safety freaks A Public Insurance Adjusting Schoolhouse notes. with Buddha” out there!) Also, send an email to the other party to recap what the conversation was about, asking them to clarify any dis- THE ALL NEW crepancies or to explain things further. Hope this little hack helps you. Because this hack is the only thing that’s helping an in- sured I know navigate a claim For over a decade, Matthew Vanderford has worked in the Construction, LocallyLocally owned business that was filed correctly, but went Restoration and Insurance Industries as an Insurance Company Pre- for forover over 30 30years. years. way off track – so far off track ferred Vendor, Insurance Industry Continuing Education Instructor, Public it’s taken almost two years to Adjuster/ Policy Holder Advocate and Licensed Contractor. He’s proud to resolve. And that’s only because call Destin his home, with his wife Candice and four children: Matthew, About Face Blinds offers a wide the notes have helped this in- Blake, Jordan and Scarlett. range of products such as sured keep their claim alive after Have Questions about Property Damage or Insurance Policies? Custom Window Blinds, repeated attempts of the carrier Call Us: (850) 684-4794 Shades, Plantation Shutters, to shut it down. You could have it answered in one our columns. So, here’s to good claims Draperies and Motorization. being filed with very happy outcomes for those that need it 850-837-4184 most – you – the insured! Holiday Plaza “Looking at reflections one can cast their own shadow waiting watching School Programs 12273 Highway 98 West, Suite 116, Destin, FL 32550 www.aboutfaceblinds.com for the neverchild to emerge from the Serving Pre-K through 12th Grade room within,” mmi Open to the Public: After School Programs Summer Programs | Art & Music Homeschool Partnership Private Therapy | Life Skills Classes

[email protected] Therapy Services www.SouthWaltonAcademy.com ABA (Behavioral Therapy) South Walton Academy provides Counseling Services a broad range of individualized, Developmental Therapy educational, and therapeutic Occupational Therapy opportunities for all children. Speech Therapy | iLs, and more! Let us design Our Team is Growing! 24/7 Service: Now Hiring: your comfort. Teachers, Lead & Assistants, Therapists 850-897-6540 gulfshoreair.com License CAC05247 June 2021 Destin Life www.mydestinlife.com Page 37 Musing 4th of July tial doubt. Pimento cheese gives street, yelling at her children. with a hollow leg. me courage. And pound cake re- “Be careful!” she shouts. “Don’t How did I devel- storeth my soul. blow yourselves up! Supper’s al- op love handles, And yea, though I walk most ready!” old-man toenails, through the Valley of the Shad- Next, I hear the sound of bi- and a bad back? ow of High Cholesterol, I will cycle gears clicking, and skate- Sometimes I fear no egg yolks, for Thou art boards. Is that the sound of a big miss childhood with me. wheel? The kids kick up a cloud afternoons, ly- Speaking of food, right now of dust behind their tires. ing in the grass I smell steaks cooking on a grill. “You’re not faster than me!” beneath a sprin- My neighbor, Tom, is having a shouts one child. kler. I miss fish- holiday cookout and he is speak- “Yes I am!” ing with earth- ing my “love language” fluently. “No you’re not!” worms. I miss It’s Fourth-of-July week and “Yes huh!” warm tomatoes, By Sean Dietrich every house on our street has a “Nuh uh!” stolen from my On my kitchen counter is a driveway full of cars. There are “Yes huh!” mother’s garden. I miss playing need to say much today. After pound cake, sitting on a pedes- American flags flying on every “Nuh uh!” with explosives. all, I know what she’s saying, tal, beneath a glass dome. post, mailbox, and car antenna. They pedal hard until dusk. I am interrupted. and she knows what my heart is Pound cake is the food of People linger on porches, And just when you don’t think My wife walks onto our saying back. summer. It can make or break holding bottles and aluminum they can pedal any faster, their porch. She is carrying a pedes- She’s saying, “The pound the entire season. A summer cans, eating ridiculous amounts mother calls them for supper. tal with a golden cake beneath cake came out good, didn’t it?” without pound cake is like of goodies and laughing a lot. No matter how many light a glass dome. She cuts two slic- And I’m saying, “I love you so church without singing. Or The sun is low. I hear fire- years away from home children es and serves them with fresh much it hurts.” Monet without color. Or Andy crackers in the distance. They are, the mere mention of food strawberries, and pours iced tea I know all this because, like without Barney. sound like bottle rockets. makes them fly homeward fast- into jelly jars. my wife told the man, we speak When I was a younger man, If you are, or you have ever er than Chuck Yeager drinking We don’t speak to each other Food. my soon-to-be wife and I went been a boy, you know a bottle Mountain Dew. because we’re too busy eating. Happy Fourth of July. through mandatory marriage rocket simply by its sound. Fire- Soon, I hear the sound of ce- We only smile with our mouths counseling at our church. It was works are expressly male items. ramic casserole dishes on their full, then touch the rims of our miserable. The minister was so If you don’t believe me, visit porch. And the happy chatter of jelly jars together. uptight that he could have car- YouTube and type in “bottle voices. And the sounds of forks It’s a holiday, and there’s no ried a corn cob without using his rocket tricks.” and spoons. hands. What you’ll find are millions This is a cross-section of The pastor asked me what of videos featuring death de- old-fashioned America to me. RESIDENTIAL my “love language” was. fying stunts by young people Casseroles, kids, and laughter. COMMERCIAL “My what?” I said. who—how do I put this?—are A radio accompanies their AUTOMOTIVE “Your love language,” he said. only knitting with one needle. supper. The sound of the Temp- “How do you receive love?” What you will not find among tations, singing “I Heard it WINDOW TINTING “Come again?” these videos are females. Girls Through the Grapevine.” a premier provider of “Food,” my wife interjected. are too smart to mess with gun- And I remember when my world class window films “Sean’s love language is pound powder. mother once danced with me on cake, and so is mine. We speak When I was a boy, we fooled the porch to this very song. She CALL CHRIS FOR A FREE ESTIMATE Food.” with bottle rockets all summer spun me around, and showed 850.974.2264 That preacher looked at us long. We would travel to the me how to move my feet. We re- like we had june bugs crawling county line and spend big mon- ally cut a rug. You don’t get over out our noses. And I never forgot ey on bundles of barely legal memories like that. that. bottle rockets. We would waste On a day like today, I am left Because my wife was right. the entire summer developing wondering how it happened. We speak Food. Food has always strange and exotic ways to harm How did I get middle-aged? helped me through life. I use each other with explosives. Where did my life go? Once, I fried chicken to fend off existen- I hear a mother down the used to be a boy, fearless, fast,

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Musing What Ever Happened to Patriotism? By Myrna of Independence declares: “We and raise a family, freedom to take for granted. We all enjoy the Conrad hold these truths to be self-ev- receive a free education in pub- picnics, fireworks and fun when We are in ident, that all men are created lic schools, and freedom to join celebrating these holidays. But the middle equal, that they are endowed by a political party, union or other let’s never fail to acknowledge of celebrat- their Creator with certain un- legal group. Aren’t you thankful the sacrifices that secure our ing two very alienable Rights, that among for these freedoms? Let’s never freedoms. People throughout patriotic holi- these are Life, Liberty and the take them for granted. the history of our country have days, Memo- pursuit of Happiness.” litical leaders endorse. What is In a 2018 Gallop Poll, only left home and family, bled and rial Day and Independence Day. Our freedoms were fought does mean is that you support 33% of Americans aged 18-29 fought under extreme circum- Memorial Day commemorates for from the very beginning and and stand up for the freedoms said they were proud to be an stances, seen and experienced the men and women who have have been fought for ever since. that our country represents. American, while 60 % of those horrific things and even died for died in military service for the These men and women were and The freedoms that make our age 50+ expressed extreme pa- our freedom. U.S. Independence Day (Fourth are the ultimate Patriots. Patri- country different and stand out triotism. The surprising and I belong to a family with of July) celebrates the birth of otism, however, shouldn’t just among all others are stated in disturbing statistics in this poll, strong military ties. My father-in- American independence from be attributed to those who have The Bill of Rights. Those in- however, were that between 2013 law was a prisoner of war in Ja- Great Britain on July 4, 1776. served in our Armed Forces. Pa- clude: Freedom of Religion; and 2018 all age groups under pan in WWII. My husband, his We also celebrate Veterans Day triotism should be practiced by Freedom of Speech; Freedom of the age of 50 went down signifi- brothers, my brother, and many in November, honoring all per- EVERY citizen of the United The Press; Freedom of Assembly; cantly in their pride in being an of the next generation of our sons who have served in the U.S. States. Freedom of Petition; The Right American. family have served in the military. Armed Forces. The definition of Patriotism To Bear Arms; ‘No-Quartering” Those are troubling and sad We have seen, first hand, the cost If you go in order, The Decla- is “devotion to and vigorous sup- Right; The Right To Equal Jus- statistics. Why this drop in patri- of freedom. That’s why when we ration of Independence precedes port for one’s country. A patriot tice, The Right To Own Private otism? I believe a lot of it comes see a flag waving in the wind or all of these holidays. This dec- is a person who is on the side of Property. The 10th Amendment from the lack of accurate knowl- hear the National Anthem, our laration led to our Constitution his or her own nation or its lead- includes: freedom to live or travel edge about our country’s history hearts swell and we proudly sa- which guarantees our freedoms, ers.” To support one’s country anywhere in our nation; freedom and the moral fiber our country lute the flag that represents the including the Bill Of Rights. The doesn’t mean you have to agree to work at any job for which we was founded on. As my husband, “land of the free.” final version of our Declaration with everything the current po- can qualify, freedom to marry Bob, put it, “Revisionist history While our country is not per- and expunging God from our fect, what has made our country society are the root causes of the different and great is its stated RESIDENTIAL SERVICE SPECIAL failure and decline of patriotism commitment to liberty, justice Keep your garage door operating safely and in our country today.” Histo- and equality for all. extend its life by properly maintaining it. ry used to be one of the major Be Aware: subjects taught in school from Be more aware of the cost of free- Garage Door Tune-Up elementary school through high dom in our country. OVERHEAD DOOR COMPANY $59.95 for 1 Door school. That doesn’t seem to be Know and understand the principals OF NORTHWEST FLORIDATM $19.95 each Add’l Door the case today. Even when his- and foundations our country was built tory is taught, parts of history upon. www.archives.gov/found- Parts extra if needed. Includes torsion springs adjust- RESIDENTIAL AND COMMERCIAL ment, hinge tightening and hardware lubrication. that might offend someone are ing-docs. Proudly Serving from Pensacola to Panama City left out or erased. How can we Think about some of the things you including Ft. Walton Beach, Destin, Valparaiso, Niceville, Make your appointment today! expect our youth to be proud have had to give up during COVID-19 Bluewater Bay, Hammock Bay and Freeport of a country they know so lit- and give thanks daily for some of the tle about? Today some schools freedoms we have regained in our na- (850) 502-8615 • destinoverheaddoor.com are even teaching children to be tion. ashamed of their country. Ask yourself how quickly and at When searching for statistics what costs you would be willing to give on how many Americans have up your freedom? read the Constitution, the num- Be aware of any negativity you bers were between 15% and might have toward our country and find 37%. So, when the majority of ways to change that. our people have never even read Be Intentional: the Constitution that our coun- Read more about the history of our try was founded on and what all country and make sure your children are who serve swear allegiance to, aware of our nation’s history. why should we be surprised that Celebrate our country’s holidays, not Affordable Pressure Washing patriotism is on the decline. just with fun and food, but with remem- When I was in school we brance and appreciation. See What a Difference We Can Make for You! stood, with our hands over our When given the opportunity to sa- heart, and all quoted the Pledge lute our flag, think of all that it has Homes • Sidewalks • Patios • Driveways of Allegiance. We all knew the cost those in our military to insure our Decks • Fences • And More... words and no one even thought freedoms and stand proud! about refusing to do this. Today Find ways in the community to Before After we see people refusing to stand thank and support those serving our and pledge allegiance to our flag. country. $50 OFF - if scheduled by June 30, 2021 Kids in school, people in sports, Thank God every day for the free many of those in the media and doms you enjoy. Never take them for 15 Years Experience • Locally Owned and Operated entertainment industry stay seat- granted! ed or take a knee when saluting Editor’s Note: While this was Call Today to Schedule Your Free Estimate our flag or speak disparagingly printed in the June 2020 issue of about our country. Destin Life, we felt is so relevant, we (850) 688-9886 Freedom is not something to wanted to reprint it again this year. June 2021 Destin Life www.mydestinlife.com Page 39 Musing A Pastor’s Ponderings: It Happened One Summer By Dave acts left a crater-like hole in my game with the requirement that and waving his ball cap excited- came and dealt with the vast void Holland soul. Psychologists say that chil- one of us run in the Coca-Cola ly from his wheelchair. My mind of sin at the cross. Christ created It hap- dren who grow up in a one-par- Challenge. I was the only one raced back to my little league a new beginning based on peace, pened one ent home fill that empty space healthy enough to compete. days as a ballplayer. Hundreds “We also rejoice in God through summer day with anger. I am living proof of A beautiful Rockies official es- of times I had looked toward the our Lord Jesus Christ, through when I was at that adage. corted me to the team’s bullpen stands, longing to see Dad, only whom we have now received Dad’s house. Dad moved out when I was and prepared me for the Chal- to be disappointed at his absence. reconciliation.” Romans 5:11, He lived deep age 5. Afterwards I saw him lenge during the seventh inning Now, here he is. (NIV.) in the desert. We were roofing the once or twice a year after. As a stretch. “By the way, this game Dad casually mentioned on 1 John 4 further explains, addition to the house he shared teenager, I often imagined how I is being televised nationally,” the ride home from the stadi- “This is love: He loved us long with his new wife. The sun blis- was going to tell him off when he she said. She also explained the um that this was the first time before we loved Him.” And con- tered us with 105 degrees of pure came to visit at Christmastime. contest involved running from he attended a baseball game. I cludes, “Everyone who loves is hell as I slapped down the black But the moment he walked in the the left field wall, tagging second realized then how much he had Fathered by God.” shingles and Dad nailed them to door, all that anger evaporated base, and continuing to the first missed. Under the cruel shadow I’ve come to appreciate my their resting place. and I ran to him. An hour after baseline in less than 25 seconds of divorce, son missed father and Dad, but Father God is the dad- Dad stopped for a moment to he left, my old friend depression to win. father missed son. dy I never had. My heart is whole wipe the sweat from his face and crept back in with his evil twin Boom! Blasted the starting The rare air of tranquility en- and filled with the love of God said, “I’m sure a 14-year-old boy resentment. gun. My forty-eight-year-old legs veloped us as we each accepted and love for my Dad. would rather be out having fun, Thirty-five years and thou- struggled mightily. The crowd of the journey of our lives. We loved but I love doing this.” He picked sands of miles of distance did 35,000 people roared their en- each other despite it all and, in Dave Holland pastored churches up his hammer and continued little to soothe our strained rela- couragement as the TV cameras the end, that’s what matters. Rec- for 38 years before retiring in Destin. pounding nails. He was right– tionship, until my nephew asked rolled. I won with my lungs suck- onciliation has to do with accept- He recently released his new devotion- this wasn’t how I pictured visiting me to perform his wedding. The ing air like a lung-cancer survivor ing your losses and kicking anger al-Bible study based on the Gospel of Dad. family all traveled to Colorado and the crowd cheering wildly. to the curb. Resentment and re- Luke titled “Extraordinary Jesus: Ig- “Who is this strange man? for the weekend of festivities. My As beautiful Rockies’ repre- gret only steal your joy. Forging a nite Your Season of Miracles.” You can Who could love sweating like a sister Linda randomly won the sentative escorted me back to my new future based on peace allows get a copy of this book from his web- pig roasting over a barbecue pit? Coca-Cola Challenge and three seat, the jumbotron scoreboard love to emerge. site, DaveHolland.org, or at Amazon. WHO is this man I call Dad? tickets to a Colorado Rockies replayed my victory run. It all Similarly, humanity lost itself com. Pastor Dave is available to preach I longed for his approval my baseball game two nights before felt surreal as we approached in all the crap of life. Alienated and teach in churches and conferences. whole life. The absence of his the wedding. my seating section. I could see from God the Father, we had no Contact him at DavidvHolland54@ demonstration of how a man Dad, Linda and I went to the Dad watching the jumbotron path to return to Him. Until Jesus gmail.com.

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AVASATTICINDESTIN.COM Page 40 Destin Life www.mydestinlife.com June 2021 Arts & Music Meet Todd Wilkinson, MKAF’s Music Man By Zandra Wolfgram curity and the food trucks. The  They say music makes the only thing we don’t handle is the    world go ‘round. If that is true, raffle,” he explains.  then Todd Wilkinson is surely The MKAF CIV concerts   the man giving the globe a big date back to 1995, and stand  ol’ spin. as the first and longest running   Wilkinson, a realtor and en- concert series in Destin, perhaps   vironmental consultant, is en- Northwest Florida. As with any   tering his third year as chairman longtime tradition, locals are  of the eight-member concert bound to have opinions about it. 

 committee for the Mattie Kelly “We try to have something



 Arts Foundation. Long before are held al fresco on the Village for everyone, we book all sorts

  he started his six-year stint on green on Thursday evenings. of genres from rock and pop   the committee, Wilkinson and Cloth-covered VIP tables have to funk and soul,” Wilkinson   his wife, Chris, were concert go- priority seating just beyond the explains. “We don’t repeat too   ers. They are 16-year veterans, grassy “dance floor,” otherwise much, but we do bring back   in fact. bring a beach chair or blanket. some bands simply because they   Clearly, a “music man,” The gate opens at 6 p.m. and are audience favorites.”   Wilkson was playing the saxo- the concerts start at 7 p.m. You What makes for a great music   phone at the tender age of 10. can bring along a picnic or enjoy concert? Wilkinson says there is    Through high school and col- dinner from a tasty food truck recipe for success:  lege, he was part of progres- or local restaurant and bring “A combination of the right sive rock band (think Genesis). some cash for the weekly raffle atmosphere, the right audience       When he wasn’t rocking out drawing. This year, the 10-con- that creates a high level of en-               complicated beats and rhythms, cert line-up kicks off April 22 ergy. When enthusiasm is there            he was one of voices heard over with The Music of Queen trib- between an audience and per-              the crackly college air waves at ute band (accompanied by the former, they feed off each oth- Florida Institute of Technol- Sinfonia Gulf Coast orchestra!) er and it inevitably turns into                          ogy. And while in grad school and continues weekly through amazing event.” at Loyola University, he hosted June 24. Wilkinson should know. The          a radio show on WWOZ, the The magic behind the mu- MKAF Dugas Pavilion isn’t          
     public radio station in New Or- sic is a lot of hard work. Care- the only venue he books. This leans. ful planning begins about six concert connoisseur often hosts  
              “It was very late, I’m sure no months before the first show “house party” concerts in his one was listening,” Wilkinson starts. Niceville living room. Shannon jokes, which he does often. “We truly work as a team and Labrie, Kyshona Armstrong Each season the committee are tasked with all things related and Jay Clemons, who played programs a series of summer to the concerts. We identify the sax in Bruce Springsteen’s band, and fall concerts called Con- bands, handle booking them, are just a few of the musicians certs in the Village (CIV). They negotiating fees, arranging se- who have performed for the Wilkinson’s and their friends. “We’ve met a lot of great artists and some of them have become friends and hang out with us when they pass through town,” he says. As the committee chair, Wilkinson recognizes pleasing mattie kelly arts foundation everyone means programming OCT 30-31 Annual arts festival featuring fine a broad range of music, but he artists exhibiting their original art, live music, personally prefers to hear sing- food trucks, beer & wine. er/songwriters, saying, “original music is art.” But no matter your taste in music, Wilkinson says there are plenty of reasons for everyone to come out to the MKAF Con- certs in the Village. SPRING SERIES FALL SERIES “It’s a great venue, a great mattie kelly arts foundation space and a great audience, and APRIL 22 - JUNE 24 SEPT 9 - OCT 7 MAY 25 & SEPT 14 Vin'tij Food & Wine Dinner series always great music,” he says. Annual concert series featuring a diverse genre in Grand Boulevard with selected visiting vintners. “It’s a perfect way to spend an of music suitable for all ages and families. evening in Destin and it’s just NOV 11 Annual wine walkabout at Ruth's Chris mattie kelly arts foundation GATES OPEN AT 6PM | CONCERT AT 7PM fun.” Steak House at Silver Shells Resort in Destin. MKAF Concerts in the Vil- lage are free to MKAF mem- FREE for Members - JOIN NOW! MKAF.org bers. For more information on Support ArtsReach programs in the many MKAF Membership our community. 850.650.2226 | [email protected] | 4323 COMMONS DR W, DESTIN, FLORIDA 32541 levels and all the concert details, visit MKAF.org. June 2021 Destin Life www.mydestinlife.com Page 41 Arts & Music Paint! “With a Twist!” Painting with a Twist is FUN set of masterpieces—together. free with a new twist on fun! and zombies to space nights and art, not FINE art! Connect with Upcoming date nights include Book a birthday party, kids 90s coffeehouse trivia, cheers your friends in a warm, support- Beach Buddies. On Sunday, Jun. camp or Mommy & Me event! to a little friendly competition ive and positive environment. 27 from 6 to 8 p.m. and Lovers Paint a Turquoise Turtle on Thursday, June 17 from 6 to 9 Wine, art and fun combine, Paradise Saturday, Jun. 26 from Wood Board or Canvas with p.m. whether you’re hanging out 7 to 9 p.m. your Dad (Father’s Day) Sun- Special for the 4th of July! with friends, a date or the whole Girls’ Night Out! day, Jun. 20 from 6 to 9 p.m. On Wednesday, June 30 from family. Right when you thought you On Wed., June 30, get Patri- 6 to 8 p.m., paint Stars, Stripes Saturday Night— were out of girls’ night out ideas otic with a Pre-Firework Paint & Fireworks! Canvas or Porch Date Night! — you found the most creative Party! Leaner. Never stuffy or routine, you one yet! BYOW (bring your own Paint in the dark under black The June calendar offers can include everything you love wine)* to a paint party that’s a light at Black Light Events! a variety of paintings— from about regular dates — your fa- toast to your girl gang. Thurs., Jun 10, 6:30 p.m. seasonally-inspired landscapes vorite BYOB beverages and Family Fun Events Paint Your Pet—Your furry to decorative DIY wood board finger foods, plus the fun that all Summer Long! (or scaly) friends deserve some signs, funny self-portraits, and comes with trying something Bring your whole crew for a love, too! Turn your pet’s photo Pop Art Paint Your Own Pet more! Find a paint night theme new. You’ll take home a great unique family outing they’ll nev- into a portrait with step-by-step for Kids! Ages 8+. On Sun., that fits you, then sign up at painting and even better mem- er forget. You focus on quality instruction from our amazing Jun. 27 from 2 to 5 p.m., paint paintingwithatwist.com/ ories. You and your partner time and we’ll handle the rest! artists. On Wed., Jun 16 at 1 your pet for ages 18 and up studio/fort-walton-beach/ will create a complementary Set your kiddo’s creativity p.m. Trivia Nights--From wizards calendar.

ECTC Presents Summer Camps! 10 Different Programs, 12 Artist Experts, a Full-Length Musical and More Share the spotlight with choreography and even in Seaside; and the Ame- (grades 2-8) the likes of Matilda, Alexan- stage combat. lia Center Theatre Lab at • Techies Rule (grades 5-12) der Hamilton, Harry Potter, “The Musical Theatre Gulf Coast State College • Film Camp (grades 5-12) SpongeBob, Dr. Seuss, Snow Intensive is our response in Panama City. • Matilda The Musical White and the Seven Dwarfs to our students’ growing (grades 6-12) and others desire to be challenged ECTC’s 2021 Summer • Private Vocal Lessons with Emerald Coast Theatre in the craft of theater,” Camp line up: Peter Lake (grades 5-8) Company (ECTC) presents 10 ECTC co-founder and • Mini Player Camp Scholarships are available different Summer Camp pro- producing artistic di- (ages 5-7, rising kinder- for select summer camps, apply grams including popular mu- rector Nathanael Fisher garteners) online at www.emeraldcoastthe- sicals like “Hamilton,” “Puffs says. “This opportunity • “Snow White and atre.org/scholarship. Discounts (Harry Potter), “Sponge Bob,” to work alongside ECTC pro- theatre.org/musical-theatre-in- the Seven Dwarfs” (grades 2-8) offered for multiple registra- “Seussical” the staging of a full- fessionals and professional guest tensive. • “SpongeBob: The Musical” tions. length musical, “Matilda,” plus artists is a special and unique Summer Camp locations are and “Hamilton”–Musical Teen For more information or to hands-on workshops for theater experience.” ECTC, 560 Grand Boulevard Cabaret Intensive (grades 6-12) register for an ECTC Summer “techies” and film buffs. For more information on the (upstairs) in Grand Boulevard • “Puffs: The Play” (grades Camp offering, visit www.emer- Altogether there are 16 ECTC Musical Intensive “ex- at Sandestin in Miramar Beach; 7-12). aldcoasttheatre.org or call (850) ECTC program sessions rang- perts” visit www.emeraldcoast- Seaside Neighborhood School • “Seussical the Musical Jr.” 684-0323. ing from one-, two- or three- week camps that will be held during the summer (May 31 to August 1) for all ages—from rising kindergarteners to rising high school seniors. For the first time, ECTC will stage a full-length musical pro- duction as part of its summer educational program—Roald Dahl’s “Matilida the Musical.” Another first is the recruit- ment of 10 performing arts “experts”—including theater professors and profession- al Broadway actors, singers and producers —who will join ECTC’s artist/teacher produc- tion team to offer a wide range of performing art lessons and View the calendar at PaintingWithaTwist.com workshops including vocal, song and monologue coaching; audi- 255 Miracle Strip Pkwy SE, Suite B - 8, Fort Walton Beach • (850) 226-7218 tion and acting techniques; La- ban efforts, movement, dance, You paint and party... we clean up the mess! Page 42 Destin Life www.mydestinlife.com June 2021 Around Town AroundNew Town Ask Destinites after in Walton County, stepped interviews and medicals. Visit By Patricia Lee forward to offer to match the www.eccac.org or call (850) 833- Beach Flags & Turtles, guest Paddle Raise. As it turns 9237, Ext. 283. Oh My! out, the Paddle Raise amounted For the past month I have to $100K, then Jim and Tammy The Destin Chamber’s annu- seen a lot of talk in our local Pierce matched that for a total al standup paddle board race is Destinites Facebook Group of $200K raised for that alone. back — Paddle at the Park about how crowded we are It was a record setting An additional $300K was raised Sponsored by Destin ER. and the lack of beach flag and evening raising $500K for via the non-profit’s live and si- The event is moving to Hender- turtle awareness. More people the Emerald Coast Chil- lent auctions and a wine pull. son Beach State Park; hence, the means more water rescues and Turtles: We all know that dren’s Advocacy Center With Centers in Okaloosa and name change! Formerly known more trash left behind. Many more needs to be done to help (ECCAC) at its 22nd annual Walton County, in ECCAC’s as Paddle at the Porch, this residents and business own- visitors be aware of our turtles signature “Bow Ties & Bling” 21-year history, right at 15,000 event, now in its 9th year, will ers are stepping up with ideas nesting and the importance Gala at the Hilton Sandestin. In children have received more be held on Aug. 21, 2021. It fea- to help in these areas. Read of them being able to get what became the first matching than 150,000 services at no cost tures 1- and 3-mile recreational about some of those ideas from the beach to the water funds occasion for ECCAC, the to include mental health thera- races and a 6-mile elite race, to below and see if you can join at night. Here are some sug- Jim Pierce Family, for whom the py, crisis intervention, referrals be followed by awards, food and in to help or come up with an gestions made by Destinites. 1. Pierce Family CAC is named to other community providers, fun! Paddle at the Park Spon- idea of your own. Resorts should hand out pack- sored by Destin ER targets lo- ets of turtle info including red cals and visitors interested in the Flags: Visitors walk right stickers to cover flashlights. 2. rapidly growing standup paddle by the flag charts and sigs at Resorts who have beach patrol board sport. Open to the public, the beach entrances. We have should hand out fines when it is being held in partnership to be more creative to get they see people leaving their with BOTE and Henderson their attention. Here are some trash, chairs, toys, etc., on the Beach State Park. Want to spon- things currently being done. beach. 3. Beach rules/turtle sor? Email cassy@DestinCham- Some businesses are flying info should be included in the ber.com. colored flags in coordination contract the visitor signs with with the color of the beach the resort or condo owner. Destin Rotary’s recent flags. If all businesses would 4. Small, colorful turtle signs Annual Cajun Crawfish do this, visitors would notice should be placed around the Bash held at The Towne Cen- and ask what it is all about. dunes and beach entrances. tre at Seascape with co-host Some restaurants actually 5. Hotels and Condos could Mezcal Mexican Grill raised print the flag chart on their to- provide turtle shaped soaps in an approximate record-break- go bags. Little things like this a gift basket along with aware- ing $15,000! Event proceeds are could make a big difference ness info. benefitting Food For Thought, if all businesses would par- If you would like to know Harvest House, Boys & Girls ticipate. One citizen recently more about any of the cam- Club of the Emerald Coast, started an awareness cam- paigns mentioned and how Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation’s paign with volunteers wearing you can get involved, email community outreach initiatives flag awareness T-shirts on the me at DestinitesFounder@ and The Rotary Club of Des- beach during red or double gmail.com or join us at www. tin’s Scholarship Fund. red flag days. Another citi- Facebook.com/groups/Des- zen has started a wristband tinites (locals only, please). Trees on the Coast re- campaign where the colored Thank you and remember to cently planted two oak bands coordinate with the col- also visit us at www.Destinites. trees at Destin Elementary ors of the flags and info is in- com. School. Future plans included serted into each package. Ho- cleaning up the corner of Kelly tels, resorts and condo owners and Beach (on the school side) are buying these to give out to and planting an “Honor Tree” their guests. 205.567.2779 there for Kohltan.

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