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serving south walton beach and the surrounding areas • volume 6 • number 4 • july/august 2011
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Best of the Best
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ROBERTO COIN
ERICA COURTNEY
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KONSTANTINO
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HEATHER MOORE
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Best Jewelry Store
Best Place To Splurge On Her
McCaskill & Company
—— Finest Jewelry & Watches ——
13390 Highway 98 West, Destin, Florida 32550
850.650.2262 • www.McCaskillandCompany.com
letter from the
publisher
Publisher/editor-in-Chief
Miles K. Neiman
the liviNg is eAsy
Summer on 30-A, and
available, or the chef whose recipes do said produce justice, a
the living is easy. Hot
passion for excellence is a common denominator shared by the
days, miles of sugar-white
folks whose stories grace these pages.
sand,
turquoise
water,
untouched dune lakes, Yolo
boarding, bocce ball, fine
dining, designer shopping,
swimming with dolphin,
amazing fishing and golf,
great nightlife, and the list
goes on and on. Why go
home? The answer is that
many people don’t. But for those of you whose time on 30-A is
limited, the folks that live here make this place a vacation haven
for you and your family year-round.
jennifer thompson
graphic Design
ellen westing - Cover Design
As always, it gives us great pleasure to bring these stories to you
and yours. We believe that a good story is paramount to good
information. And we could not tell these stories without you,
ellen westing - Magazine layout
sharon jollay - ads
our reader. Thank you for including us in your vacation and
thank you for making 30-A your special home away from home.
We hope we can be a small part of your family tradition and that
our suggestions can help add to your vacation memories year
Photography
susanna Bartoldus
after year.
Until next time, enjoy our little stretch of paradise on 30-A.
Sincerely,
Contributing writers
susanna Bartoldus
susan Cannizzaro
julie herron Carson
In the pages that follow, you’ll read about some of the finest
Neville Carson
people, places, and things that make 30-A and the surrounding
area so special. Whether it’s the farmer that makes sure 30-A’s
Managing editor
Miles K. Neiman
restaurants are serving up the tastiest and freshest produce
h.M. Cauley
julie Dorris
tom Fitzpatrick
lauren gall
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4 | t h e t h i r t y- A r e v i e w | j u l y / A u g u s t 2 0 1 1
Distribution Manager:
warren Butler
contents
7 local theatre, dance & music
10 dining
Caliza restaurant at Alys Beach
seagrill
Putting the v in seagrove
16 eats
let’s Be Frank
52
18 a good brew
grayton Beer
20 be good
Children’s volunteer Network
22 local art
Albert F’s
24 finance
An American Original: the Owner Only 401(K)
26 local buisness
McCaskill & Co.
walt Chancey: Architect of Design Diversity
30 sports and leisure
Bocce Ball on 30-A
32 beauty
Cosmetic enhancements
34 relaxation
salon Baliage & spa
18
wellness 36
Dr. Nitin Bawa & Associates
beachwear 38
shipwreck Mercantile Co.
kids stuff 40
fitz and emme
interiors 42
Bienvenue, Paris!
farmer talk 44
ted Foret
12
real estate 46
Beach rentals of Florida
timing is everything
scott Cobine of the Premier Property group
communities 52
Alys Beach
around town 54
sunQuest Dinner Cruises
30-A reads 56
30-A style
legal eagles 58
tomorrowitis
turf talk 60
the eighteen Mile sugar white sand trap
t h e t h i r t y- A r e v i e w | j u l y / A u g u s t 2 0 1 1 | 5
bud•&•alley’s
W
D
a t e r f r o n t •
i n i n g
BuD•&•alley’s•restaurant • rooftop Bar • taco Bar • pizza Bar
t h r e e g r e at r e S ta U r a n t S
on the
beach
in
SeaSide
GOOD FOOD. GOOD PEOPLE. GOOD TIMES.
Specializing in Unforgettable WeddingS , corporate & private partieS
contact: eventS @ bUdandalleyS .com
8 5 0. 231. 59 0 0 • M ak E O nLInE D InnEr r ESErvaTIOnS
aT
B uDa nDa lleys .com
local theatre, dance, music, etc.
showbiz and events in july and August
Alys BeACh
Summer Camp
with Abrakadoodle
Tuesdays, July 5, 12, 19, 26 &
Thursdays, July 7, 14, 21, 28
Tuesdays, August 2, 9 &
Thursdays, August 4, 11
9am-noon
Meet at the Community Center
at Alys Beach for a morning
filled with outside play at Fonville Press, snack, art projects,
games and a movie! Cost is $30
per child and open to children
The Great Lakes, 7/27-Daphne
Willis, 8/3-Groove Daddy,
8/10-Forrest Williams Band
Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland by The Seaside Repertory
Theatre
Thursdays, July 7, 14, 21, 28,
August 4, 11, 6:30pm
From the moment Alice falls
down a rabbit hole into the zany
world of Wonderland, the fun
never stops! Bring the family
and low back chairs to enjoy.
4th of July Celebration
Bike parade, field day games,
music, BBQ and fireworks!
850-278-2032
Children’s Theatre –
“Pinocchio Commedia”
July 6, 13, 20 & 27, 6:30 pm
August 3 & 10, 6:30 pm
North Barrett Square
Presented by The Rep Theatre
North Barrett Square
FREE
850-278-2032
Cinema Under the Stars at Alys Beach
seAsiDe
Stories by the Sea
Mondays-Fridays, July 1-31 and
August 2-13, 4pm
Ruskin Place & Central Square
Join the Seaside Repertory
Theatre as we present a one-ofa-kind storytelling experience
for children of all ages. Each day
will offer a new story and there
might even be opportunities for
your participation!
“First Friday” ArtWalk
Friday, July 1 and August 5, 5-8pm
– Ruskin Place & Central Square
Enjoy live music and view
beautiful works of art and artist
demos at the galleries and shops
of Ruskin Place and select Central Square merchants.
Central Square Cinema
Fridays, July 1, 8, 15, 22 & 29,
August 5 & 12, 8pm – Seaside
Amphitheater
Grab your blankets and head
to the Amphitheater for movies
under the stars. Enjoy blockbusters & classics alike during
this series.
ages 4 and up. Please register by
calling 850-424-5058.
Cinema Under the Stars
Tuesdays, July 5, 12, 19, 26,
August 2, 9, 8pm
Bring blankets and low back
chairs to enjoy a family
friendly film in the Amphitheatre. 7/5-Furry Vengeance,
7/12-Shrek Forever After, 7/19Cats and Dogs: The Revenge of
Kitty Galore, 7/26-The Secret of
Nimh, 8/2-Tangled abd 8/9-Bolt
Spring Concert Series
Wednesdays, July 6, 13, 20, 27,
7-9pm and August 3, 10
Bring your dancing shoes and
join us for live music outdoors
in the Amphitheatre. 7/6-Mile
Marker 7, 7/13-Coconut String
Band, 7/20-Daniel Ellsworth &
Parents’ Night Out
Fridays, July 8, 15, 22, 29,
August 5, 12, 7-10pm
Bring the kids and a sack dinner
to Parents’ Night Out! They will
enjoy art, games, and a movie at
the Community Center. $20 per
child, open to children ages 4 and
up. Call 850-424-5058 to register.
rOseMAry
BeACh
“Once Upon A Thyme In
Rosemary…”
July 1, 5, 8, 12, 15, 19, 22, 26 & 29,
10:00 am
August 2, 5, 9 & 12, 10:00 am
Storytelling by The Rep Theatre
South Barrett Square
FREE
Moonlight & Movies
July 7, 14, 21 & 28, 8:15 pm
August 4 & 11, 8:15 pm
Western Green
FREE
850-278-2032
West Indies Market
July 9 & 10, 11:00 am – 6:00 pm,
Town Center Lawns
FREE
850-278-2032
“Kids Rock The Block!” Party
July 12, 6:00 – 8:00 pm
Western Green & Gigi’s
Town Center Lawns
FREE
850-278-2032
Seaside Farmers Market
Saturdays, July 2, 9, 16, 23 & 30,
August 6, 13, 20 & 27, 8am-12pm
– Amphitheater
Get your pick of fresh produce,
baked goods, dairy products,
native plants and other unique
offerings during our Market on
Saturday mornings. Find local
specialties that will help sustain
our growers! Enjoy special cooking demos and activities sure to
liven up your morning! Held
behind Raw & Juicy.
Stars & Stripes at Seaside:
A July 4th Celebration
Monday, July 4 –
30A & Seaside Amphitheater
Travel through Seaside for this
patriotic celebration. Start the
day out with the annual July 4th
Parade down 30A and conclud-
ing in Seaside. Then make sure
to reserve your spot on the lawn
for a concert followed by an
unbelievable fireworks finale!
Make sure to grab your seat on
the lawn early, as space fills up
quickly for this festive event.
And don’t forget a special early
fireworks show on Sunday, July
3rd from the beach in Seaside!
Seaside Summer Concert Series
Wednesdays, July 6, 13, 20 & 27
and August 3 & 10, 7pm –
Seaside Amphitheater
Celebrate the summer season
with your friends and neighbors
as we welcome the sounds of
some of the regions top musical
acts to Seaside. Music will fill
Central Square and entertain
guests of all ages.
Sand Sculpting with
Sand Odyssey
Thursdays, July 7, 14, 21 & 28,
1-3pm – Seaside Beach
Thursday afternoons feature a
continued tradition this summer
filled with all things sand, as
Seaside offers free sand sculpting lessons by sand master Mark
Flynn from Sand Odyssey. Learn
exciting techniques on how to
construct a sculpture that will
wow your friends and family.
Pick up your wristband from
Seaside Beach before the event,
as space is limited.
The Stinky Cheese Man
Mondays, July 11, 18 & 25
August 1 & 8, 7:30pm –
Seaside Amphitheater
Join the REP for a magical
children’s theatre performance in
the Seaside Amphitheater. Each
Monday night throughout the
summer, enjoy an educational and
entertaining experience for kids
of all ages! For more details on the
REP, visit: www.seasiderep.org.
t h e t h i r t y- A r e v i e w | j u l y / A u g u s t 2 0 1 1 | 7
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dining
Caliza restaurant at Alys Beach
by Susanna Bartoldus
Center Cut Pork Chop
O
n most nights Alys Beach offers a teasing
taste of its breathtaking star amenity. Housed
within one of its architectural marvels is Caliza,
its poolside restaurant. This al fresco oasis delivers a
sumptuous dining experience in casual 30-A style.
Caliza is divided into several dining “loggias” which
afford gorgeous shaded views of the languid pools and
lush greenery. The niched seating along the Western
wall is irresistibly inviting with its comfy cushions and
intimate settings. The bar separates two of the dining
spaces and has cocktail seating out front, as well as a few
coveted seats at the bar itself. Come early and start your
evening here to fully appreciate the surroundings, not to
mention a great cocktail.
Choosing a specialty drink is a pleasure, as the menu
affords some equally appealing choices. The Key Lime
Martini is a favorite with its easy flavors of vanilla vodka,
Licor 43 and fresh lime juice. A close second is the Maui
Sunrise with its tequila, passion fruit, and a squeeze of
lime. Their full bar also includes over a dozen wines by
the glass and a selection of bottled domestic and imported
beer. Caliza’s wine list also maintains over 50 vintages by
the bottle and the staff is more than willing to help you
with your selection.
Executive Chef Ed Reese heads up Caliza’s kitchen
and his menu for this season features Southern Coastal
cuisine with a nod toward the Mediterranean. He mixes
fresh local seafood and high quality meats with seasonal,
local produce to create dishes that allow the flavors to
come through beautifully. His menu reflects a cohesive
focus on balanced dishes that offer the best ingredients
our region has to offer. Joining him in and out of the
kitchen is Chef Alison Porter who is acting General
Mediterranean Polenta and
Rosemary Shortcake
Fried Green Tomato & Oyster BLT
Manager. Alison also brings her serious pastry talents to resplendent in its own savory juices, yet soars with its subthe table (sometimes literally) with her inspired dessert tle Green Tomato and Peach Chutney with arugula and its
creations. But let’s save our dessert for the end.
Smoked Bacon and Pear Hash Browns as compliments.
Caliza’s salads and small plate selections are palate- Share the light divineness of a bowl of Capellini Al Poteasing preludes to the rest of the menu. Seafood abounds modoro. It is a wonderfully aromatic and carefully crafted
with chilled fresh Apalachicola Oysters, Shrimp Cock- pasta dish that brings together the flavors of fresh roasted
tail, Tuna Tartar, and the
tomatoes, olive oil, garlic, fresh banotable Snapper Ceviche
sil, and chili peppers. It pairs well
Caliza at Alys Beach with a Pinot Noir, good company,
served with plantain chips.
Try the Fried Green Toand the balmy, breezy summer air.
mato and Oyster BLT, a
An ideal precursor to dessert.
delightful stack with aruDesserts at Caliza reflect
gula, smoky bacon and a
the same approach to the menu
dollop of lemon-dill mayo.
and atmosphere. Alison Porter’s
Lovers of all things local,
Panna Cotta with hazelnut praline
green, and leafy will apand handmade caramel sauce is a
preciate the Mac Farms
masterpiece. How such a dessert
Arugula salad featuring its
can emerge from a list of such
namesake’s greens, shaved
simple ingredients is beyond me.
radish, grapefruit supremes,
That said, the Mediterranean
and Gorgonzola herb vinaiPolenta and Rosemary Shortcake
grette. Be sure to order a Trio of Dips for the table while with macerated strawberries and citrus-honey cream
you ponder your dinner choices or as a snack with a also struck a chord. The rustic texture and beautiful mix
round of cocktails. Grilled flat bread gets a lovely lift with of light, simple flavors are so charming and unexpected.
Caliza’s own trifecta of Hummus, Piquillo Pepper and Rounding out the desserts are Brioche and Berry Bread
Feta dip. and Kalamata Olive and Goat Cheese Tapenade. Pudding, Warm Chocolate Gateau, Key Lime Pie, and
Chef Reese’s entrée choices incorporate seafood, pas- Chocolate Truffle Cake.
ta, and various meat and poultry dishes. The preparations
are deliciously unfettered and bring out the quality of the Caliza Restaurant is located in Alys Beach and is open to
ingredients without masking flavors. Grilled Black Grou- the general public for dinner Tuesday through Saturday
per is cooked to its flaky perfection and finds excellent 5:30pm-9:00pm. Their address is 23 Nonesuch Way,
company on the plate with the creamy Crawfish Risotto Alys Beach, Fl 32413. Reservations are recommended.
and grilled asparagus spears. The Center Cut Pork Chop is For more information, call (850) 213-5700.
1 0 | t h e t h i r t y- A r e v i e w | j u l y / A u g u s t 2 0 1 1
L UXURY G OLF C ONDOMINIUMS
IN A
C O A S TA L S A N C T U A R Y
L ARGE
UNITS WITH MODERN AMENITIES
AND FIXTURES
T WO
CAR GARAGES
T WO
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L O C AT E D O N 9 T H H O L E O F
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M E M B E R S H I P O P P O RT U N I T I E S
UNITS LEFT!
T H I S G O R G E O U S S E C L U D E D P R O P E RT Y H A S V I E W S F R O M T E E TO G R E E N O F T H E 9 T H H O L E O F T H E S H A R K ’ S T O O T H G O L F C O U R S E . C L U B S I D E II I S L O C AT E D I N T H E C E N T E R O F T H E W I L D H E R O N
C O M M U N I T Y , W H I C H I S F I L L E D W I T H TA L L P I N E S , S C AT T E R E D M A G N O L I A A N D O A K S A N D I S L O C AT E D AT O N E O F T H E H I G H E S T E L E VAT I O N S I N W I L D H E R O N . I N C L U D E S F U L L U S E O F P R O S P E C T P O I N T
R E C R E AT I O N A L A M E N I T I E S , W H I C H I N C L U D E T H E S W I M M I N G P O O L , F I T N E S S C E N T E R , B O AT H O U S E , F I R E - P I T , A N D O P E N - A I R PAV I L I O N W I T H I T S H U G E F I R E P L A C E . R E S I D E N T S E N J O Y A S E N S E O F P R I V I L E G E
I N T H I S E X C L U S I V E G AT E D C O M M U N I T Y .
C O N TA C T
WWW. C LUBSIDEI I . COM
dining
seagrill
Seafood, Sushi and More in South Walton
by Lauren Gall
N
o, Destin Chops 30A is not open for business
anymore. But leave it up to creative and
successful restaurateur Jim Altamura of Harbor
Restaurant Group, and another delectable option is now
residing in its place. The newly remodeled space, in the
Villages of South Walton, now goes by the name Seagrill,
and features fresh coastal cuisine, sushi, and prime
meats, while focusing on Gulf and Pacific Rim flavors.
The restaurant was renamed by Altamura in the spring
of 2011, after a decision to shift the focus of the menu
towards seafood, the cuisine indigenous to the Gulf
Coast region. However, Seagrill still features an extremely
progressive menu that includes several prime USDA steak
favorite face at such restaurants as Fish out of Water and
the Caliza Restaurant, and is poised to raise the bar for the
Seagrill diners’ culinary experience.
I was lucky enough, recently, to take a trip to Seagrill
and sample some of the savory fare. Needless to say, I
arrived with great expectations, which, in turn, were all
well surpassed. Three incredible dishes, prepared by Chef
Smith himself, were presented for tasting. The first, a Brie
cheesecake with poached pears, was placed in front of me
in a most beautiful presentation. With cheesecake being
one of my absolute favorite dessert selections, I was more
than happy to sample. The cheesecake was extraordinarily
light and fluffy…perfect for summer time. Hints of cumin
Asian Inspired Calamari
slight vinegar taste, which adds a bit of tartness that is
well received. I ask the Chef about his inspiration for this
particular dish. He chuckles and responds, “I guess you
could say this is my version of Caribbean fish and chips.
I am inspired by the flavors of that region, as well as all of
the colors that Mother Nature has to offer.”
The third and final course is an Asian inspired bowl
of the most perfectly prepared calamari that I have ever
tasted. The calamari, marinated in coconut milk for 3-4
hours before preparation, is very lightly breaded and
served with sweet, Thai chili vinaigrette, and garnished
with shredded cabbage. The cabbage, a bright purplish-red
accent, provides the perfect color and texture contrasts.
Chili Dusted Grouper
Brie Cheesecake with Poached Pears
options, with the main focus now lying upon innovative
seafood dishes, created and executed by none other than
Executive Chef Cody E. Smith.
“Executive Chef Cody Smith, former Sous Chef
at Café 30A, will deliver California coastal cuisine with
the flare that only a San Diego-trained chef can do,”
Altamura says.
“The food will be light and bright and made with
fresh ingredients and local produce,” says Smith. “If it’s
in season, then you are likely to see the menu change to
reflect what is fresh. In its natural state, the food should
speak for itself. “
Also joining the stellar Seagrill team, as manager
and maitre’d, is Jaie O’Banner. O’Banner has been a local
and paprika created bursts of unexpected, but heavenly,
flavors. The dessert was reminiscent of one of my other
favorites, a fruit and cheese plate; yet in a cheesecake,
dessert style format. The Brie, a personal favorite, stood
out but also provided the perfect balance in flavor…just
the perfect amount of sweetness and creaminess. I wanted
to eat the entire slice, along with the beautifully poached
pears that accompanied it. However, I knew there was
more to come.
The second dish presented was that of a chili dusted
grouper with pineapple and jalapeno jam, served over a
bed of yam pommes frites. What first stands out about
the dish is the vibrant use of colors…bright yellows and
warm oranges. The grouper is prepared perfectly with a
1 2 | t h e t h i r t y- A r e v i e w | j u l y / A u g u s t 2 0 1 1
I left the restaurant not only impressed with the
culinary delights just placed before me, but also at
Chef Cody Smith’s passion for food. Seagrill serves
up a contemporary twist that is sure to delight your
senses. Whether you dine in the casually chic dining
room, or sip cocktails and eat sushi in the bar, Seagrill
will satisfy all of your cravings. An extensive wine
collection is also offered.
For more information about Seagrill, visit www.
harborrestaurantgroup.com or call (850)231-4050.
Seagrill is located at 10343 E. Co. HWY 30A in
Seacrest Beach.
MASSAGE | MANICURES
PEDICURES | BODY TREATMENTS
FA C I A L S
|
HOT STONE
S PRAY
TANNI NG
SAUNA
MASSAGE
|
WAXI NG
WEIGHT LOSS | SUPPLEMENTS
dining
Putting the v in seagrove
by Susanna Bartoldus
Citrus Poached Black Grouper
y
ou can’t help but linger when you approach the
intersection of Scenic Highway 30A and County
Road 395. In stark contrast to what was essentially
a big empty parking lot is now V, Seagrove Beach’s visually
stunning new venue for fine dining.
The restaurant is phase one of a multi-phase
project that includes the construction of Hotel Viridian.
Interestingly, the hotel will not only include V, but will
have its own spa and rooftop pool. Additionally, it will
encompass 20 hotel rooms, 10 three-bedroom residences,
and two gulf front homes.
V’s Art Moderne inspired building brings a South
Beach feel with a hint of old Florida. The outdoor
seating area is lined with Palms and water accents, with
recessed ceiling fans providing a modern touch. Inside,
the restaurant is all contemporary elegance with its open
floor plan, floor to ceiling windows and floating light
fixtures. Local artwork throughout the restaurant lends
a 30-A feel, including exquisite paintings by Beaches
of South Walton Artist of the Year Allison Wickey and
a phenomenal hanging spherical sculpture by Stefan
Daiberl.
The restaurant affords both indoor and outdoor
seating with plenty of ambience. The horseshoe shaped
bar allows for easy conversation and is a gorgeous setting
to enjoy a cocktail and appetizers. Balmy Gulf breezes set
the tone on their outdoor patio, while inside everyone
Five Tomato Salad
gets a window view. Yet, the most intriguing feature has to
be the open kitchen. Sit at the chef ’s bar for ringside seats
to all the kitchen action.
Chef David Cunningham leads the kitchen team
at V and his extensive menu features regional dishes
with an eye towards pleasing a wide audience. The
selections include seasonal raw and chilled seafood, a
potpourri of appetizers, homemade soups, a selection of
salads showcasing local produce, and composed entrees
featuring rotating seasonal ingredients, seafood, and
meats. In addition to this daunting selection is an entire
section of the menu devoted to a DIY-style, a la carte
entree creation. Desserts are all made on the premises and
also vary depending on seasonal ingredients. Never fear,
if you are overwhelmed with choices, the wait staff will
gladly assist you in making selections.
Menu highlights include dishes where our local
flavors really shine. Chilled Apalachicola Bay Oysters,
Jumbo Gulf Shrimp, and Stone Crab Claws (available
Oct-May) are left to their own delicious devices with
traditional sauce pairings. Treat yourself to a feast by
ordering a petite or grand plateau, which gives a sampling
of what’s available. Locally sourced produce makes a
notable appearance in the Roasted Wild Mushroom salad
featuring Mac Farms Baby Arugula, but is rapturous in
the Five Tomato Salad. The quality and flavor of these
Heirlooms are outstanding and well complimented with
1 4 | t h e t h i r t y- A r e v i e w | j u l y / A u g u s t 2 0 1 1
Banana Parfait
V’s Lemon Basil Vinaigrette and house made mozzarella.
Fried Green Tomato croutons add a playful touch.
The intriguing selection of rotating fish and meats
give interesting depth to the entrée menu. The menu has
included Herb Stuffed Paneed Mississippi Rabbit, Strube
Ranch Wagyu Brisket Sliders, and Grilled Veal Chops.
The Swimmers have included Citrus Poached Black
Grouper and Apalachicola Soft Shell Crab, as well as
Carolina Redfish and Gulf Caught Yellowfin Tuna. Keep
an ear out for the Chef ’s special for that evening as well.
Pairing wine with dinner is effortless, as V has its own
Sommelier on hand. In addition to the extensive wine
list, they also have their own private label artisan wines
produced exclusively for the restaurant by the Blanchard
Family Wine. There are roughly 17 wines by the glass to
choose from, spanning different varietals. Additionally,
there are over 60 bottles offered that are sure to please any
wine enthusiast.
30-A’s newest spot for fine dining is located at 2743
East Scenic Highway 30A in Seagrove Beach. V is
open at 6pm, 7 nights a week during the height of
season and fills up quickly. Seating is on a first come,
first serve basis and reservations are not accepted. For
more information about V and the Viridian Hotel visit
vseagrove.com/ or call (850) 468-0973.
eats
let’s Be Frank
Wild Bill’s Beach Dogs Is Saucy in Seaside
by Lauren Gall
i
f you have ever visited Seaside, then you are probably
And…if those five options don’t fully satisfy your name over to our logo designer, David Begregoria and
already familiar with several of Bill and Heavenly carving, and you yearn for something a little sweeter, Wild just asked that he design something very retro, Route 66
Dawson’s delicious establishments, such as Heavenly’s Bill’s still has one more option for you…the, Cool dog, inspired. He actually added the Wild Bill’s to the name
Shortcakes, Pickles Beachside Grill, Dawson’s Yogurt an ice cream inspired creation, served on a sweet, sponge and recommended that we have some fun with it. Hence,
and Fudge Works, and the Shrimp Shack. However, the cake bun and inspired by Heavenly Dawson herself. “The the full business name became Wild Bill’s Beach Dogs.
most satisfying endeavor of them all might have come Cool dog is a very popular selection, especially with the
“We are so fortunate to have Wild Bill’s Beach Dogs
recently in the form of an air streamed trailer, directly off kids,” says Dawson. Wild Bill’s also offers several extras and all of our businesses here in Seaside,” says Dawson.
the Seaside square, named Wild Bill’s Beach Dogs.
for the dogs, including made from scratch chili and “This truly is a special place for people of all generations,
In January 2011, the Dawsons, who are
passionate about good food that is good for
Wild Bills Dogs Seaside location
you, approached Seaside about one of the air
streamed vendor trailers as a grass fed hot dog
stand and the business was born. However, the
business was first considered back in 2008 when
Heavenly Dawson learned of a healthy hot dog,
made from grass fed cows, in San Francisco. At
the time, the company producing the product,
Five Dot Ranch, was still on the cusp of growth
and could not accommodate enough product
for supply here. The Dawsons set back and
waited, never abandoning the idea. Three years
and a lot of hard work later, Wild Bill’s Beach
Dogs came to fruition.
“We knew that we wanted to stay focused
on our idea of a healthy hot dog that was good
for you and delicious. Everyone, for the most
part, loves a good hot dog and we wanted to offer
that to the residents and visitors of Seaside,” says
Bill Dawson. “Heavenly is also very committed
to providing and serving food that is not only
tasty, but that is very healthy for the customer
as well. After our market research visit to the
ranch in California, we knew that this would be
a perfect fit for the town of Seaside.”
Wild Bill’s Beach Dogs offers a dog for
everyone, young to old. The first, the Frank
dog, is the classic frank and showcases that
traditional hot dog taste. The second, dubbed
Jackson Lee Dickerson enjoys a Wild Bills dog.
the Mutt, is a dog made of 50 percent grass
fed beef and 50 percent grass fed pork. The
third option, Heat, is a spicy pork sausage dog for those
mustard, made by Heavenly. Bill also recommends the all ages, and most of all families. There is a little bit of
that crave something with a little punch. The fourth
famous signature devil sauce as an extraordinary addition something for everyone and we are pleased that our
option, the Brat dog features a classic bratwurst flavor,
to your dog. “You can only get the devil sauce at Wild businesses, including Wild Bill’s Beach Dogs, helps
in a healthier package. The fabulous fifth option is the
Bill’s. I recommend that you use it sparingly on your dog, provide that for locals and visitors alike.”
Bird dog, a scrumptious turkey dog packed with flavor.
but it is so good that it can’t be bad,” says Dawson. “It’s
“We have a no junk policy,” says Bill Dawson. “We
Wild Bill’s Beach Dogs is located in the Land Yacht
like heaven without the heartburn.”
know food that tastes good comes from produce with no
When asked about the unique business name, Bill District in Seaside, directly off of Highway 30A
added hormones, no antibiotics, and no nitrates. Plus,
Dawson chuckles and responds, “We asked several people and immediately across from Bud & Alley’s and The
the added bonus is that not only do the dogs taste great,
to submit potential names for the business and had over Shrimp Shack. For more information, call (850) 974but they are all good for you.”
forty names recommended. Heavenly chose the name, 8034 or visit www.sweetwilliamsltd.com or www.
‘Beach Dogs,” out of all of the submissions. We sent the letsbefrankdogs.com
1 6 | t h e t h i r t y- A r e v i e w | j u l y / A u g u s t 2 0 1 1
Mouthwaterng Cuisine
2743 Scenic Highway 30A Seagrove Beach, Florida 32459 • 850.468.0973 • www.vseagrove.com
a good brew
grayton Beer
by Neville Carson
Jamey Price
Grayton Pale Ale
Grayton Beer on Tap
B
eer,” said Benjamin Franklin, “is proof that God
loves us and wants us to be happy.” You could say
the same thing about the sparkling air, pristine
beaches and laid-back atmosphere of Scenic Highway
30A. And now, as if to further prove the good intentions
of Providence towards us, the noble brew and the beautiful
road have come together in Grayton Beer.
Grayton Beer is the brainchild, and heart-child, if you
will, of Jamey Price, a former software entrepreneur. His
new enterprise recently launched its first two beers, Grayton Beer Pale Ale and Grayton Beer I.P.A. These are making
their appearance in all sorts of 30-A outlets, including Wine
World, Bud and Alley’s, Stinky’s Fish Camp, Red Bar, Fire,
and others.
“When my wife and I moved our family here,” says
Price, “we wanted to start a business that would really add
to the local flair and, since we plan to spend the rest of our
lives here, entrench our roots in the area.”
Price has had a long love affair with the art of
brewing. “I’ve always loved the craft beer business,” he
says, “so I’ve always taken brewery tours, participated in
tastings, and tried new beers whenever I could.” Price’s
passion, though, didn’t outweigh his business sense.
“When I started thinking about getting into this line of
work, I talked to everybody I possibly could in the craft
beer industry, from the owners of breweries to the guys
sweeping the floors. I read extensively and made sure it all
made sense from a business standpoint, because this is my
family’s livelihood we’re talking about.”
When Price’s studies showed that the opportunity
was real and the effort feasible, he took the plunge. “We
“
IPA Wet 703
Pale Ale Wet 695
worked for months honing the flavor profiles for a variety
of styles.”
Price decided to introduce his Pale Ale and I.P.A.
first. “The Pale Ale is the more approachable beer. It has a
relatively low alcohol content and goes well with any type
1 8 | t h e t h i r t y- A r e v i e w | j u l y / A u g u s t 2 0 1 1
of meat,” he says. “As for the I.P.A., it has a hop-heavy
flavor that is the perfect complement to spicy dishes. It’s
also wonderful with sweet desserts. I love an I.P.A. on a
summer afternoon.”
Currently, Grayton Beer is brewed in a plant that also
makes other beers, but that’s going to change. Says Price,
“We are currently working on our own facility in South
Walton. Our goal is to have our own place built by the
end of 2011.”
One feature of Price’s brewing facility will be a tap
room. It’s an important part of making Grayton Beer an
integral part of the 30-A community. Locals and visitors
alike will be able to come relax and sample the brewery’s
offerings. The tap room will also be the starting point for
tours of the plant.
The tap room, and other tasting opportunities, will
also get the news about the products spread by word of
mouth. “For our business, the best sort of marketing,
and the biggest challenge, comes from education,” says
Price. “The craft beer industry in the southeast has just
three percent of the market by volume. That means
there’s a lot of opportunity for growth, but first we have
to expose those in the ninety-seven percent to our beers
and let them decide for themselves. If we do an effective
job of that, I’m confident we can enlist a lot of new craft
beer drinkers.”
To start with, those customers will be won in Grayton
Beach and the other shores of 30-A, but Price has high
hopes of placing Grayton Beer into craft-friendly outlets
throughout the southeast. When the brewing facility is in
place, the company will be capable of producing about
5,000 barrels a year, ample to expand its market reach.
“So many people come here from Atlanta, Birmingham,
and similar locations,” observes Price, “it’s only natural to
have the products available for them where they live, as
well at the beach.”
When asked about future beers, Price doesn’t get
specific, but he reveals a little. “I’d have to say that bolder
beers—porters and stouts—are strong possibilities.” Of
the future in general, he’s able to be more forthcoming.
“It’s my duty in this profession to produce the highestquality beer I possibly can. I want Grayton Beer to be
known for that, and I also want us to be known as a good
steward of the environment. The company name is drawn
from a genuine love of Grayton Beach. The whole of 30-A
is just great, but there’s something about Grayton that
always draws me back. This is such a beautiful, pristine
area—we want to help ensure that it’s as beautiful in the
future as it is today.”
To find out more about Grayton Beer, surf to www.
graytonbeer.com.
be good
Children’s volunteer health Network gives
low income Kids the high wealth of health
by Maureen McCarthy
i
n 2005 a cruel childhood nickname gave birth to a Dental Assistant, Tabitha Carlton (on right) and children from a school recently visited; the children had just learned
stellar cause when Trisha Carlisle-Northcutt saw a about hygiene and how to properly care for their teeth. They received tooth brushes and floss to take home!
young boy, properly known as Tyler, taunt and be
taunted by the moniker “Monster Mouth”. She knew
something could be done to fix his lack of security,
improve his schoolwork, and holistically heal him.
No small task as Tyler had three rows of teeth. Thus
began the birth of Children’s Volunteer Network, Inc,
a non-profit, faith-based network. Original founder
Northcutt and some church collegues vowed to find an
orthodontist to fix Tyler’s pearls for free as Tyler was like
22% of Walton and 13% of Okaloosa County children,
who have little or no health insurance. Not to mention,
60% of Walton County families have no dental coverage.
Ergot, only 15 dentists serve over 50,000 residents. Only
one such professional accepts Medicaid.
Since then, as the network’s representatives correctly
claim, CVHN has done a Herculean task. They have
gathered over 90 healthcare providers and a gamut
of fulfilled volunteers to provide not just basic health
and dental but also mental and specialist care. These
professionals and volunteers have made a difference and
their work continues to grow. CVHN recently
celebrated their 6th Birthday and the network’s
Kelly Taylor (left) and Denise Johnston (right)
tireless efforts over the years have resulted in over
5,200 medical, dental and mental healthcare
appointments facilitated for uninsured children
in Walton and Okaloosa Counties. Additionally,
the Walton County Board of Commissioners
declared April 22nd as Children’s Volunteer
Health Network Day in Walton County. CVHN’s
Executive Director, Zach Billingsley says, “ CVHN
exists because of the caring and selfless people we
have here in our community. Without financial
and volunteer support from this community,
CVHN could not reach these children who so
badly need our help.”
The motto of the 503(c), which is not
affiliated with the government, is: “it’s the right
Dental Hygienist, Kelly Taylor (left) and Dental Hygienist, Denise
of every child to have access to quality health
Johnston (right) are pictured here showing a group of children
care”. The network also contends that health is
how to properly brush to avoid plaque and cavities.
paramount for happiness and wholeness. From
2008-2009 CVHN treated 936 children. The
next year the number grew to 1,004.
Surviving only on donations (which are tax free)
Keep your eyes out for CVHN’s “Just for Grins” For more info about this and other events, visit www.
and promotional gifts is hardly an easy task, according to mobile dental clinic. The festively painted mobile office cvhnkids.org. You can also download a free prescription
Zach Billingsly, CVHN’S Client Coordinator. To present goes to schools regularly. From 2008-2009 “Just for drug card from the site. The card provides discounts on
their services to the public and to raise funds, the network Grins” treated 936 children. The next year the number drugs and other medical expenditures and is honored
holds creative public events on a regular basis.
grew to 1,004. As Billingsley explained, the kids actually by many area pharmacies. You can also call (850) 622want to go back to the clinic to visit the bus. Obviously 3200. The Children’s Volunteer Health Network is
the fun replaces the fun replaces the fear. Let’s keep the located in Santa Rosa Beach.
funky bus driving on.
2 0 | t h e t h i r t y- A r e v i e w | j u l y / A u g u s t 2 0 1 1
local artist
Albert F’s
b y Ta y l o r A r n o l d
Painting by Joel Goldsby
we both have always subscribed to the concept
that if your job and your passion are one and the
same, then it’s a pleasure to go to work every day.
The Speights agree that
the strong community of artists in Thirty-A has only enhanced their experience here.
“We are constantly amazed at
the caliber of art available in
our wonderful community.
We have so many talented
artists, especially in the visual
arts,” Holly says. “I think the
Thirty-A artist’s community
is one of the best kept secrets
in Florida. That needs to
change! Any day of the week,
a person can go up and down
Scenic 30A and find beautifully created visual art, from
folk art to traditional art to
contemporary art. It is staggering, really.”
Now that they are such
a staple to the area, the Speights credit the people of
Thirty-A for their success. “Be it in the store or through
design projects, this job allows us to meet and interact
with really wonderful and interesting people,” Holly
says. “It has been such a pleasure to get to know so many
people who live and visit this area. Best of all, we all have
a common interest. We love and cherish our beautiful
Thirty-A community. This is a special part of the world,
and we all want to see it be successful but kept pristine
and natural.”
As for the future of Albert F’s, the Speights just hope
to keep serving both the locals and visitors alike. “We
hope the store continues to be a go to place for great gifts,
fun jewelry, home accessories, and local art,” Holly says.
“We hope people want to come back on their next visit
to the beach and leave with something they will always
enjoy. Plus, if they are missing their pets while away, we
hope that Jack has given them a bit of a dog fix.”
Painting by Lisa Woodruff Hinds
h
olly and Brad Speight were Jack
healthcare professionals from
Nashville, Tennessee, when
they decided to leave corporate America
behind and move to the beach. “Like
so many, we always dreamed of a way
to make this area home,” Holly says.
“In 1999, we said goodbye to a life
of being on the road four days a week
and meeting in the Atlanta airport for
dinner as we crisscrossed the country
with our jobs. We moved to Seaside
and have never looked back. Tennessee
still holds a special place in our hearts,
but Walton County is most definitely
home. We always say that once you get
the salt water and salt air in your body, you are hooked!”
A year later, they launched Albert F’s Home, Garden
& Gifts in Ruskin Place. Here, guests will find a variety
of items including art, garden accents, jewelry, home
accessories, candles, and more. “There were actually two
parts to our dream,” Holly says. “Obviously, one was to
live on Scenic Highway 30A. The other was to open a
boutique-style specialty store and interior design business
that allowed us to express our creativity. We both have
always subscribed to the concept that if your job and your
passion are one and the same, then it’s a pleasure to go
to work everyday. We truly feel that way. Plus we get to
bring Jack, our beloved corgi, to work with us.”
With her retail savvy and
his eye for interior design, the
business quickly evolved into
an eclectic home store that
offers expert design services.
“The store has had many
faces over the last decade as
we have tried to respond to
the desires of our customers as
well as adapt to the changing
economy,” Holly explains. “Albert F’s has always remained
unique in its approach to retail. We work very hard at
studying retail and design trends along with wants and
needs of the buying public. Brad and I will always have a
strong presence in our store. It’s part of the concept.”
In addition to their design services, Albert F’s holds
trunk shows throughout the year to showcase different
jewelry and accessories. They also represent a number
of local artists including Lowell Lotspiech, Lisa Hinds,
Joel Goldsby, Susan Calhoun, and Gordie Hinds. In fact,
Brad likes to use local art in his installations, and the
couple have several pieces in their own home.
2 2 | t h e t h i r t y- A r e v i e w | j u l y / A u g u s t 2 0 1 1
Albert F’s is located at 209 Ruskin Place in Seaside.
For more information, call (800) 974-5203 or visit
www.albertfs.com.
Shop Simply
Dine Simply
Live Simply
seasidefl.com
A
Simple
Beautiful Life
finance
An American Original: the Owner Only 401(K)
by Chris Ogle
Chris Ogle
What are the
contribution limits?
does this type of account afford
any creditor protection?
You can defer up to $16,500 in 2011, plus a
catch-up contribution of $5500 in 2011 for
those over the age of 50. (Both figures thereafter
indexed to inflation) Additionally there is a
discretionary employer contribution component
of up to 25% of income up to $245,000. The
total contribution limit for 2011 is $49,500 or
$54,500 for those over 50.
The laws regarding creditor protection for retirement
investment accounts in the state of Florida are pretty
clear: they are protected. However, you should always
consult with a knowledgeable attorney about your specific
situation.
The certainty today of a dollar in hand to spend
versus the uncertain value of a retirement dollar tomorrow
is a classic dilemma of delayed gratification. While there
are no guarantees, investment risk can be mitigated with
a well thought out portfolio that takes into consideration
your current age, number of years (ideally) spent in
retirement, your risk tolerance, and your short vs long
term view of the world we live in. Bullish and bearish
points of view could be expressed through your personal
401(k) portfolio.
So if you are the entrepreneurial type, someone who
works hard to take control of their financial destiny,
an owner-only 401(k) may be right for you. Let this
Independence Day be a reminder of the value of hard
work, sacrifice, and the American Way.
What are some other benefits?
Besides the higher contribution limits, there are
potential tax savings. Employee contributions
are deferred pre-tax into this account, and the
business could see tax savings for the employer
contributions. (The owner/employee distinction
is recognized for determining contribution
limits, even though that person is one in the
same.) Investments also grow tax-deferred
until withdrawn. It is critical to involve a CPA
or tax attorney with the business and personal
tax planning side of this plan to help maximize
potential tax benefits.
…take a fresh look at how
and where retirement income
might be generated.
N
ow that we are at the midpoint of the year, it may
be a good time to reevaluate your progress towards
financial independence. Given all the uncertainty
today with government programs such as social security,
Medicare, and Medicaid; not to mention the unfunded
liabilities of many corporate pension plans, it makes sense
to take a fresh look at how and where retirement income
might be generated. A personal 401(k), or owner-only
401(k), may just be the vehicle you’ve been looking for.
What is it and Who is it for?
The owner only 401(k) is a qualified retirement plan
that can be established by small businesses that employ
only owners and their spouses. (There are also limited
exceptions for some employees that can be explored.)
The types of businesses that could benefit include C or
S Corporations, partnerships, sole proprietorships, and
LLC’s. (Limited Liability Corporations).
hoW can the funds be invested?
Flexibility of investment options is one of the salient
features of the owner-only 401(k). You can customize
this plan with virtually all types of investments, including
stocks, bonds, mutual funds, exchange traded funds, reits,
commodities, CD’s, and government securities. Given
the ever-changing investment world we live in, having
the potential to build and preserve wealth with some
investments not correlated to the equity markets could be
a long term positive.
2 4 | t h e t h i r t y- A r e v i e w | j u l y / A u g u s t 2 0 1 1
This article was written and provided by Chris J. Ogle,
a local financial advisor with Wells Fargo Advisors.
He lives on 30A and spends his free time stand-up
paddleboarding with his wife and four children.
Chris can be reached at 1-850-837-5366, chris.ogle@
wfadvisors.com, or at www.wfadvisors.com/chris.ogle
The opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and
are not necessarily those of Wells Fargo Advisors or its affiliates.
Investment and insurance products: NOT FDIC-Insured, NO Bank
Guarantee, MAY Lose Value.
Wells Fargo Advisors, LLC Member SIPC, is a registered brokerdealer and a separate non-bank affiliate of Wells Fargo & Company.
CAR #0511-0669A
local business
McCaskill & Co.
b y Je s s i c a H o lt h a u s
Konstantino Phoebe collection
with pave diamonds
i
t all started with a small suitcase containing a few
beautiful pieces of jewelry; gems and pearls mostly,
which Bill Campbell carried with him door to door
along the Emerald Coast. Fifteen years later, McCaskill &
Company is not only owned and run by Campbell, but is
renowned as one of the best jewelry stores in the country.
In 1994, Campbell’s suitcase graduated to a kiosk
in Seaside, where he commuted seven days a week until
moving to the Market Shops in Sandestin where he spent
four more years. He never had other help and worked
double shifts – but his wife, Elizabeth, will attest he was so
excited about the new venture that he never complained.
After more than 20 years running his family’s
building supply business, Campbell knew it wasn’t what
he wanted. As a child, he was fascinated by the beauty
and precision of diamonds and precious gems, instilled
by his grandmother Gussie McCaskill Campbell. The
fascination never left, but instead developed into a passion
and the namesake for his own store.
“He had an opportunity to fulfill a lifelong dream; he
followed his heart and it all came together,” says Elizabeth.
McCaskill & Company’s landmark location,
nestled between Destin and Sandestin, opened in 1999.
Elizabeth left her full-time job to join her husband,
overseeing the business operations and marketing. Over
the last 15 years, Campbell and his wife have worked
together to make exclusive and exquisite jewelry and
watches. Neither Bill nor Elizabeth has a background
in the business – just a passion for jewelry. Thanks to
following Campbell’s dream, they now love owning and
operating McCaskill & Company.
Today, the company has become renowned along
30-A, throughout the South and across the nation as one
of the best. In the past year, the business was recognized
in area polls as “Best Jewelry Store” and “Best Place to
Splurge on Her.” The store has been featured in Harpers
Bazaar magazine as one of the “Best Jewelry & Watch
The Campbells personally know each designer
featured in their store. The personal collection started with
Henry Dunay, the first to create ‘designer’ jewelry featuring
his name with the pieces. He could sense Campbell’s
passion and excitement and agreed to meet with him –
which quickly led to putting together a collection.
“That opened a door,” the couple says. “It provided
credibility and other designers immediately trusted us
because Henry had put faith in us.”
Oscar Heyman, known for creating the finest precious
stone jewelry, was another major name to join – and more
soon followed. Today, they feature two-dozen renowned
designers, such as David Yurman, Erica Courtney, Louis
Glick, Kwiat, Daniel K, and Gurhan. They offer bridal
Retailers in America;” Harpers not only looked at reader collections from 10 designers and in addition to their line
favorites, but sought wisdom of jewelry connoisseurs of TAG Heuer luxury sport timepieces, they are the area’s
across the country. McCaskill & Company has also official Rolex jeweler.
This summer, trunk shows in-house will showcase
been designated a “Couture Jeweler” for the last 15 years
Alex
Sepkus (June 24-25), Konstantino (July 8-9) and
running, ranking the couple among the top 150 national
Oscar Heyman (July 15-16). The
independent jewelers.
Campbells encourage anyone
The recognition is a testawith an interest in seeing
ment to Bill and Elizabeth’s hard
beautiful jewelry to stop by for
work: “We both got into this
the shows, even if just to look.
business as a second career and,
“People come to us not
in a very short period of time,
just
because
of the lines we
were able to create something
carry,
but
because
of the feel
unique and special.”
they
get
when
they
come
here,”
Meeting with customers
the
couple
describes.
“People
who are looking for that specialare often intimated by highsomething for a birthday,
end jewelry, but our staff is so
anniversary, “Will you marry
personable and when you stop
me?” or other special occasion,
by, you aren’t a customer –
the Campbells love coming to
you’re a friend.”
work every day.
Adjoining their show“We are blessed to be with
room,
the Campbells’ daughpeople at the happiest times of
ter
Carolyn
houses her fashion
their lives,” describes Elizabeth.
designer
jewelry
and accessory
And they admit they
boutique,
Sarah
Carolyn,
which
couldn’t do it without each other.
complements
her
parents’
busiIn perfect yin and yang, while Bill
ness.
Between
both
stores,
there
spends his time up front greeting
truly is something for everyone.
and helping customers, Elizabeth
Carolyn Campbell (left), Elizabeth
is usually in the back working on
Campbell (middle), Bill Campbell (right) McCaskill and Company is
the business side of things.
located at 13390 Highway 98
“People who visit our store for
West
in
Destin,
FL.
They
are open Monday through
the first time have never been to a jewelry store quite like
Saturday
from
10
a.m.-5:30
p.m. For more information,
it,” Elizabeth explains. “We wanted the store to be warm
call
(850)
650-2262,
email
info@mccaskillandcompany.
and inviting, so it feels like home. Our showroom is like a
living room [complete with a fireplace and a tray of freshly com or visit www.mccaskillandcompany.com.
baked cookies] and our showcases are more gallery-style,
with tall pedestals showcasing each designer.”
2 6 | t h e t h i r t y- A r e v i e w | j u l y / A u g u s t 2 0 1 1
local business
walt Chancey: Architect of Design Diversity
by R i d g e l ey S ta n d a rd
F
or Walt Chancey, a childhood spent among the
beauty of the white sand beaches of 30-A led to a
career in helping shape their development.
Originally from Enterprise, Alabama, Chancey spent
his summers vacationing in Inlet Beach and cultivated an
inherent love of the area. After graduating from Auburn
growing needs and demands. To date, the Tampa office
has been operational for 22 years and Seagrove Beach
for 15 years, with both offices specializing in residential
architecture. While custom single family homes to
multi-story condominiums and resorts are the bread
and butter of the practice, their portfolio also offers
Walt Chancey
Board Room Facilities
Work Station
University with a degree in architecture, Chancey knew
Florida was where he wanted to settle. Although the
Panhandle held his interest, he felt he “needed a larger
environment” and initially began his architecture and
design practice in Tampa. “It was close to the Panhandle,
but still a big coastal city,” Chancey explains.
For seven years, Chancey Design Partnership
operated from its Tampa base, biding time as the real
estate along 30-A flourished. When the market was
ripe for competitive development, Chancey opened his
satellite office in Seagrove Beach to capitalize on the area’s
healthcare, senior housing, and many mixed-use
projects that include restaurants, offices, banks,
and retail space.
Chancey Design Partnership operates under
four core values which define the company
culture: Creativity, Dedication, Passion, and
Fun. Utilizing such modes of operation, Chancey was
well positioned to restructure thought and practice with
the advent of downturns in the economic climate. As a
visionary and affected party, Chancey quickly realized
that “people were looking for new and creative ways to do
business with more efficiency and less waste.”
“Everyone who continued to work learned to do so
differently,” says Chancey. “The downturn led to more
efficiency. We saw a lot of downsizing and creation of
home-based businesses. The only problem of home-based
businesses was still the necessity of full office needs.”
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On the premise of new, creative, and efficient ways
to do business, Chancey founded New Urban Design
Suites & Business Club in Tampa two years ago as an
executive office resource concept in a “high-end, cool,
modern, LEED certified building.” The Seagrove Beach
location followed shortly in deference to the fact that
a lot of area tourists had a “need for a meeting/
presentation space away from their home offices.”
Both locations of New Urban Suites & Business
Club feature “full-time private office suites, virtual
offices, meeting room space, and part-time officing
solutions. It is a place for networking as well as
accomplishing work. Our target is small businesses
and mobile professionals looking for a professional
place to conduct business with full amenities.”
Amenities are full service and include technology
such as “telephone, computer and internet access,
professional telephone answering and reception,
copy and printing services, on-site and video
conferencing, administrative support, and much
more.”
As if two successful endeavors weren’t already
enough, Chancey is also President of Gulf Coastal
Development, Inc. which develops multi-family
projects, custom homes, and mixed-use projects. In
collaboration with Rookis Development Company,
Chancey is currently working on many spec homes
in 30-A communities. “A lot of developers left
the area when the recession hit,” says Chancey.
“Ricky and I are well funded and have improved
troubled properties and have taken advantage of
opportunities for market resurgence.”
While his background is diverse in architecture,
design, planning, real estate, and executive suites,
Chancey is “very focused on the design aspect of all
his projects by helping his clients envision the architecture
and interior design they are bringing into the world and
then by helping them to realize that dream.”
“Service and design excellence are the two things we
do best. I am very proud to say that we have very high
end, notable design work, but always understand the
client,” assures Chancey. “We design around our client’s
needs and desires rather than our taste.”
No matter where design and diversity may take
Chancey, his true heart remains in the Panhandle. “My
ultimate goal is to stay and to thrive in and with the area,”
he promises.
For information about properties, developments, or
amenities, visit the following: www.chanceydesign.com,
www.newurbansuites.com, or www.clubsideii.com
Onano Neighborhood Café
Offering the Gulf ’s freshest seafood, local produce, and choice
meats; come in and experience Italian inspired cuisine served with
southern hospitality. Located in The Pensione B&B and a shell’s
throw from the beach. Indoor and outdoor seating is available.
Reservations are recommended.
78 Main St., Rosemary Beach
850-231-2436
www.OnanoCafe.com
sports and leisure
Bocce Ball on 30-A
b y Ta y l o r A r n o l d
i
f you’re a local to Rosemary Beach, chances are you’ve
heard about the latest fad to sweep the Emerald Coast.
For the last five years, the Italian game of Bocce Ball
has gained so much momentum that Rosemary Beach
now hosts their famed Bocce Tournament – not once –
but twice a year. The event grows larger with each season,
Steve Weiner and daughter Alex Weiner
In keeping with tradition, Rosemary Beach’s Bocce
Tournament always starts with the Italian national anthem
and flag raising. In the fall, it is held on Western Green,
and in spring on the Eastern and Western Long Green.
Each team of two gets four balls and the player from
the starting team throws the small ball, or the “pallina,”
toward the opposite end of the court. The player then
throws one of the larger balls, or “boccia,” trying to get
as close to the pallina as possible without touching it.
Extreme bocce
Photos by Shelly Swanger
and thanks to Dr. Steve Weiner of The Aesthetic Clinique,
Rosemary Beach is becoming the regional hub for Bocce
activity in the panhandle.
For someone who has never played Bocce, the game
is similar to bowling in that it requires skill, strategy,
and accuracy. Bocce has roots that go back as far as the
Roman Empire, but over the years it has become an
Italian tradition. Today the game is becoming popular
in southern France, Australia, and even in northern
California’s wine country.
Bocce is a great game to play outside on a beautiful
day, and nobody knows that more than Dr. Weiner. “I’d
never played it until I moved to Rosemary six years ago,”
he says. “I was introduced to it by Allen Burgtorf. We
played on weekends on the beach. Then we thought it
would be fun to have a small tournament. We had a lot
of people come up to us and say it was the best thing ever
done in Rosemary.”
Photos by Sheila Goode
Players from the opposing team then take turns throwing
their balls until one of the balls stops closer to the pallina
than the starting player’s ball. This continues until all
eight balls are thrown and the team with the closest ball
gets one point for each of its balls that are closer to the
pallina than the other team’s closest ball.
The Bocce Tournament truly is a community effort,
with Allen Burgtorf serving as Perennial MC and Jim
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Bagby donning his ref jersey for the semi-finals and the
finals. “Everyone puts in a little bit of time,” Weiner says.
“Families help sign people in, the church helps with PA
system, and someone always designs T-shirts.” Tournament
sponsors include Bombora Sun & Surf, Cowgirl Kitchen,
Bud & Alley’s, Wild Olives, Margaretten Architecture,
The Aesthetic Clinique, and many others. “All sponsors
have banners, so visitors always know when something
is happening,” he says. “Now families actually plan their
vacations around this.”
The spring tournament
kicks off the Saturday before Easter
and the fall tournament happens
the Saturday after Thanksgiving.
Anyone is welcome to participate,
regardless of skill level, and teams
are free to come up with their own
original name. (As 30-A’s premiere
plastic surgeon, Dr. Weiner’s is Team
Botacci, respectively.)
Last fall, the tournament had
65 teams and close to 100 people
stayed to watch the finals. The entry
fee is $35 per team and the event
always includes food, wine, t-shirts,
and of course, lots of cheering. “We
do a round robin, so no matter what
your skill level, you can always play
three games,” Weiner explains. “After
that, it’s single elimination.”
In addition to major
bragging rights, the winning
team gets their name engraved on
the coveted trophy that lives at
Bombora Sun & Surf. For the kid’s
tournament, the winning team gets
prizes from Gigi’s toy store. And for
the die-hard Bocce players, there is a
variation called Extreme Bocce that
is just for Rosemary residents. “It’s
always put together at last minute,”
Weiner says. “You play in the streets
and across Thirty-A.”
While Dr. Weiner admits
that it took a few years for the Bocce
movement to catch on, but it has become a fixture to the
community of 30-A. “It’s a great game for people of all
ages,” he says. “By most accounts, it’s the most fun thing
Rosemary has to offer.”
To learn more about the tournament, join the Bocce
at Rosemary Beach group on Facebook, or email info@
theclinique.net.
beauty
what’s new, what’s hot, what’s not
in Cosmetic enhancements
b y D r. S t e v e We i n e r
A
esthetic Medicine is a rapidly growing,
ever changing industry. It’s often
difficult to sort through what trends
and devices have promise, or which will be
a fad and soon be proven ineffective. This
article will be my opinion of the industry,
after having done extensive discussions with
my peers and companies, and listening to
countless lectures and discussions at recent
conferences.
Steven Weiner, MD
ulthera (ultherapy)
This seems to be generating the most interest
in the area of non-invasive skin tightening.
Ulthera uses high frequency ultrasound to
stimulate collagen and contraction of the skin
at the same layer of tissue that is tightened
during a facelift. Its unique technology goes
twice as deep and much more accurately than
the prior “best of breed” Thermage. Although
it is not yet FDA approved for use off of the
face, the preliminary data appears promising.
Ulthera has no downtime, can be performed
on any skin type, and takes less than an hour
for the entire face to be treated. Optimal
results take up to 4 months to appreciate, and
a second treatment might be needed.
coolsculpting (Zeltiq)
Coolsculpting uses cold therapy to lead to
permanent fat reduction. It has one of the
most solid research and development teams in
pictures, they were only able to correctly identify them
51% of the time (“a coin flip”). Also ultrasound studies
showed no fat loss in the Zerona patient’s studied.
blunt cannulas for dermal fillers
This is a revolutionary new injection method barrowed
from the French. So good-bye to multiple needle pokes
to fill your wrinkles, creases, and to add volume. The skin
in penetrated with a small needle, which is then removed.
It is followed with a blunt cannula, which has a rounded
tip placed through the previously made entry point. The
cannula is also extremely flexible, so the end result is that
the trauma to the tissues and blood vessels is much less
than the tradition needles used for fillers. The result is
less swelling, significantly less bruising, and much less
discomfort. Only two pokes are needed to completely fill
your smile lines and four are needed to enhance your lips.
My patients have given this technique rave reviews!
revance
This is a soon to be FDA approved topical “Botox”.
So now you can get your wrinkles treated without the
needles. There’s one catch: it seems to be most effective
for the crow’s feet, where the skin is the thinnest. Results
might even be better than the injected form in this area.
It’s placed on the skin for about 30 minutes in a physician’s
office. However, in the thicker skin areas like the forehead
or frown lines, the drug doesn’t penetrate well, and is not
very effective. Another possible use for Revance is to treat
acne. The same neural transmitter that leads to muscle
contraction is what causes secretion from the sebaceous
glands. By decreasing the output of these glands, the
Aesthetic Medicine is a rapidly
growing, ever changing industry.
the industry, including the Wellman Center at Harvard
Medical School. Studies have shown that one can expect
20-25% fat loss in the area treated and there are anecdotal
reports that the hand pieces developed after that study
show even more percent fat reduction. On the flip side,
Zerona had proven to be ineffective in any permanent fat
loss. A recent study from University of Minnesota showed
that when doctors were asked to identify which pictures
were the before and which were the after Zerona treatment
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acne will be less. Another exciting area for Revance is for
treating underarm sweating (hyperhidrosis). Typically,
about 40 injections per arm are needed, so the comfort
will be significantly improved with the use of Revance
topical treatment.
For information about Dr. Steve Weiner, please go to
www.theclinique.net.
relaxation
salon Baliage & spa
b y Je s s i c a H o lt h a u s
Baliage massage suite
Couples massage suite
t
he casual elegance that exudes from the cities along
Coastal Hwy. 30-A (much like that fresh, salty sea
air) lends to experiences that make visitors and parttime residents want to return time and time again.
The business owners in the panhandle are no stranger
to the draw that this particularly unique location offers.
For Joanie Day, it was a clear choice when she opened
Salon Baliage & Spa at the Carillon Beach Resort just a
year ago, in July, 2010.
“I had a previous location farther east, in the heart of
Panama City Beach, for about seven years,” Day explains.
“The location there drew quite a number of people from
the 30-A region, and I knew my business would be more
conducive in this locale.”
Day was also confident the atmosphere of the 30-A
area would welcome her and provide a niche spot for a
spa that emanates that same casually elegant style known
to the area. At the Carillon Beach Resort, her discerning
clientele are able to enjoy highly personal service and
a boutique-style setting that is the antithesis of a large
corporate hotel spa. When considering her move, being
in a resort setting was a top priority; it was a standard she
stuck to – and hasn’t regretted.
“It has been very fulfilling for everyone involved.
Clients love the location in the trees nestled between the
lakes here at the resort. It is a serene and beautiful spot,”
she says. “Many of the locals are not even aware of the
serenity that Carillon Beach has to offer.”
Having originally come from Houston,
Texas, Day moved to Florida many years ago
(calling herself a genuine Emerald Coast-er
these days): “I was in pursuit of a somewhat
simpler, more relaxed lifestyle,” she describes.
“I began as a hairdresser and make-up artist in
Houston’s fashion industry. Once in Florida, I
saw an opportunity to add a spa to my salon, with the
tourist industry and my existing clientele.”
Today, Day continues to have a passion for fashion,
and her clients are drawn to her own personal style of
casual elegance. For regulars and visitors alike, anyone
who comes to Salon Baliage & Spa is treated to the best,
with their lifestyle always kept in mind.
“I look specifically to the client to determine what
style and amount of upkeep is best for them. My forte is
color and I like to keep it natural and trendy,” Day says.
“I am all about dimensional color, with an array of shades
blended together to give the client’s hair an amazing
amount of depth and sheen.”
And now that she is in the 30-A area, Day knew
the new location would be a mecca for destination
weddings. The business has been much busier these days,
with wedding hairstyles and makeup bookings filling
up especially quickly now in the summer season. Salon
Baliage & Spa not only offers special packages for wedding
day hair and makeup, but also spa parties (complete with
delicious refreshments and personal service) with options
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like a manicure/pedicure combination, relaxing massage,
body treatment, or facial.
“Our second story location is set among the trees
for a tranquil glimpse of nature while receiving your
services,” Day describes. “We also offer one of the only
couples room in the area, complete with a private balcony
shaded by thick palm trees.”
Salon Baliage & Spa offers cuts, styles, and colorings
using advanced European techniques with Pureology
Color Care products. Customers can enjoy the spa
experience with makeup, nail care, waxing, massages, skin
care, body treatments, and more, with additional catering
to weddings, special parties, and packages for couples.
Salon Baliage & Spa is in the Carillon Beach Resort,
located at 100 Market Street, Suite 202. They are open
Tuesday through Friday from 10 a.m.-6 p.m., Saturday
from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and on Sundays and Mondays
by appointment. For more information or to make
an appointment, call (850) 235-1985 or visit www.
salonbaliage.com.
wellness
Dr. Nitin Bawa & Associates
Customized Treatments for Patients’ Overall Well-Being
by Julie Dorris
Patients’ Most Frequently
asked questions
q: do you take insurance?
a: yes! We take most kinds of insurance.
q: are bio-identical hormones expensive?
a: no. part of our mission statement is to make
bio-identical hormones cost-effective and easily
available to the common woman. We have
discounted prices from some good compounding
pharmacies and the cost is around $30-40 per
month. there are some cheaper options as well
using over-the-counter bio-identical hormone
preparations. it is best to make an appointment
and discuss all the alternatives.
Dr. Nitin Bawa
w
hen Dr. Nitin Bawa treats a patient, he looks
at the big picture. With a specialty in Internal
Medicine, Bawa addresses his patients’ multiple
concerns in a holistic way, providing a range of services,
including general medicine, weight loss plans, genetic
testing, and laser treatments. He also has a keen interest
in anti-aging medicine.
“We take pride in being able to deal with the
complicated problems that adults develop with age and
being able to manage all those problems at the same
time,” Bawa says.
Bawa, who earned his medical degree at the University
of Illinois at Chicago and has been practicing for 10 years,
is one of the only physicians in the area to use genetic
testing as a routine part of a physical to detect imbalances
in the body. He devotes much of his practice to treating
hormonal imbalances with Bio-identical Therapy.
He explains: “Women starting as early as 35 years old
start to develop hormonal imbalances leading to weight
gain, fatigue, menstrual problems, and irritability. The
best way to check hormone levels is by a saliva test, and
we use one of the most reputable labs to do this test.”
If imbalances are found, Dr. Bawa prescribes creams
and supplements to correct the problem. “Adjusting
hormone levels with bio-identical hormones has been
shown to help people lose 15 pounds on average without
doing anything else differently. I have also been able to
eliminate headaches, heavy menstrual bleeding, cramps,
and irritability. Often people can discontinue antidepressants once their hormone levels are balanced.”
Whenever possible, Dr. Bawa uses complementary
and holistic medicine to treat patients. “Holistic medicine
involves taking into account all aspects of a person’s
health, including nutrition, supplements, mental wellbeing, spirituality, and what ever else might be impacting
one’s health,” he says.
Dr. Bawa believes that most physicians do not take
important factors such as nutrition into consideration
when practicing traditional medicine. “However, everyone
knows that what we eat impacts our functioning to a great
extent, so this is important to integrate into medical care,”
he says, noting that he even uses supplements to help with
such conditions as anxiety, depression, and fatigue. “If
symptoms are not too severe, I might use supplements,
but if symptoms are severe then I use medications.”
Another major part of his practice is weight loss and
laser therapy. “Once I get the internal issues resolved,
I also help people look better on the outside. I have a
couple of machines that help to tighten skin and make
people look younger and thinner.”
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q: is saliva testing for hormone levels
expensive?
a: saliva testing for hormone levels is covered by
insurance, but some insurance companies might
deny payment, so you have to pay up front. We
also have to pay the laboratory up front, so we
have to collect payment up front. as a courtesy to
you, we can file with your insurance, and whatever
they pay is given back to you.
One treatment used for weight loss at Dr. Bawa &
Associates is HCG. “We have found many people have
success with this,” says Dr. Bawa. “Medications such as
Phentermine help to suppress appetite and can be used
in conjunction with HCG. MIC injections or lipotropic
injections have high doses of different B-vitamins that
make it easier for the body to burn fat.”
In many cases, Bawa may use supplements to help
with weight loss. Additionally, adjusting hormone levels
makes it easier for patients to lose weight. He advises:
“Lowering stress is also important, as stress raises cortisol
levels causing weight gain.”
Dr. Bawa adds the finishing touches with laser
treatments such as Thermage, which uses radiofrequency
to deliver heat deep into the collagen. “You see some
results right away because collagen holding skin to
bone tightens up with heat,” he assures. As the collagen
is stimulated, new collagen starts to build. “It takes six
months, but as the collagen builds, people generally look
about five years younger.”
It is refreshing to find a medical practice that thinks
outside of the box. Regarding the use of both alternative
and traditional medicines, Dr. Bawa states: “I can use the
best of both worlds.”
Dr. Bawa & Associates is located at 45 Sugar Sand
Lane, Suite A in Santa Rosa Beach. Contact the office
at (850) 534-4170.
beachwear
shipwreck Mercantile Co.
by Julie Dorris
t
he season is upon us when
Emerald Coast vacationers
and residents practically
live in their swimsuits and flipflops. For those who spend most
of their waking moments on the
beach, in the water, or lounging
poolside, having comfortable,
flattering swimwear is of the
utmost importance. And no one
understands this more than Jim
Bradley, owner of Shipwreck
Mercantile Co.
His retail store is comprised of
two entities: Shipwreck Shirts and
Shipwreck LTD. Shipwreck Shirts
is a family store themed by Bradley
as “the fun place to shop.” Here
guests will find 20,000 square
feet of unusual souvenirs, custom
t-shirts, and beach necessities.
Shipwreck LTD consists of
Volcom
22,000 square feet devoted entirely
to fashionable clothing for kids,
Photos courtesy of Shipwreck Mercantile Co.
men, and women, where Bradley
strives to provide customers with
He also encourages women to be
“affordable luxury.”
open to the new colors, silhouettes,
“Casual elegance is a recurring
and innovative styles that have come
theme in our clothing lines,” he
out this season.
explains, noting that the top beach
Guys aren’t left out at
and swim lines are Luli Fama,
Shipwreck LTD. “The big news
Sauvage, Vitamin A, Voda, and
in men’s swimwear this year is the
Sinful, in addition to favorite surf
four-way stretch boardshort. They
brands Roxy, Hurley, Billabong,
are quick-dry and soft to the touch.
O’Neill, Volcom, and others. “We
Owner, Jim Bradley There is also a men’s short that looks
are also constantly testing and
just like a dress short in appearance
adding new styles and lines.”
that is made with the same stretch
Every spring new swimwear trends emerge, designs material. You can wear the short when you go out, but
that are new takes on classic styles. Bradley says that this you can also swim in it.” He adds that bright colors are
season, twist bandeaus are popular for women’s suits increasingly popular for men.
along with unusual fashion-cut bottoms. “Also this year,
For après swim, sarongs are classic for women, and
we are seeing a lot of mixing of patterns within the same semi-sheer material coordinates with numerous swim
suit that are surprisingly cohesive and doing well at the styles and types. Men like the store’s variety of all-cotton
register.” he adds.
tees and tanks.
Fully aware that shopping for swimwear can be a
Shipwreck LTD carries the accessories beach
daunting task for many women, Bradley has trained sales fashionistas need for completing a look from top to
specialists on hand. The associate will first consult with bottom. For eyewear, the store sells a range of highthe customer to find out which type of suit she prefers end sunglasses for both men and women from brands
and then suggest suits that will be most flattering to her like Costa Del Mar, Maui Jim, Oakley, Ray-Ban, Spy,
specific body type. “Certain suits and brands provide Electric, and Von Zipper. Women will find handbags
more lift and contouring for maximum comfort and and jewelry to complement their ensemble, including
enhancement of the customer’s body type,” he explains. a collection of pearl jewelry that is popular this season.
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Customers can also choose from a
huge selection of flip-flops for men,
women, and kids from brands like
Sanuk, Rainbow & Reef, as well as
dressier shoes for the ladies from
Chinese Laundry and Volatile. And
let us not forget, hats for the whole
family are a must this year.
Bradley has been outfitting
beachgoers since 1977 when he
opened a souvenir and custom t-shirt
store that was only 500 square feet,
with no air conditioning or windows.
“It was literally old-time beach style.
I wanted to do a nautical theme that
went with the feeling of being at the
beach. There was also an abundance
of used marine netting, lanterns,
and old-style fishing props that were
available locally, at no charge.”
The beach lifestyle is something
Bradley knows well. Before he
opened his t-shirt store, he worked
as a lifeguard for Ed’s Beach Service,
pursued freelance photography, and
played guitar at night. “I obtained a bachelors degree in
psychology, but being indoors in an office environment
was too stifling for me. I wanted to do something where
I could have more interaction with people and be more
artistic, while hopefully still being able to make a living.
I then started with leasing some small gift shops in hotels
and selling custom jewelry.”
Having been a part of the community for so long,
Bradley sees the importance of local support and offers
special discounts for residents and businesses in the area. He
also tries to participate in charity and fundraising events.
Most importantly, Bradley has created an
environment at Shipwreck that makes shopping fun.
“Our employees build personal relationships with our
returning customers, both locals and visitors. We offer
exceptional personal care and affordable luxury for
everyone,” he says.
Shipwreck Shirts & Shipwreck LTD are located at
10570 Front Beach Rd, directly across from Long
Beach Resort. Hours are 9 am to midnight. Contact the
store at (850) 233-6750. There is also the Shipwreck
General Store located at Carillon Beach. The hours
there are 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Contact the store at (850)
230-9500. You can also check out the website www.
shipwreckltd.com and follow them on Facebook.
kids stuff
fitz and emme
by Susan L. Cannizzaro
s
atisfying a child, or even an adult’s inner child, is
now as simple as a trip to the beach. Rosemary Beach
is home to the unique children’s boutique fitz and
emme, located along 30-A. Whether you are searching
for a one-of-a-kind keepsake or the latest educational toy,
fitz and emme has what you are seeking.
They specialize in custom crib and ‘tween bedding
with hundreds of gorgeous fabrics to create from. They can
assist in designing your perfect room with compliments
such as lighting, rugs and wall décor, window treatments,
and furniture. They also carry a large selection of
classic children’s clothing, specialty gifts, heirloom toys,
keepsake baby gifts, and just about anything can be
monogrammed. “We are a children’s lifestyle store and
we put extra emphasis on creating lasting memories and
building solid relationships with all our customers,” says
co-owner Shawn Chick.
Children’s bedding
Shawn and her mother Randye Glenn are the
masterminds behind this must-see destination. Randye,
fondly known as “Oma,” has a strong interior design
background and previously owned a gift boutique while
living in Oklahoma City. Shawn has a strong retail and
merchandising background and claims she supported
her retail clothing habit while in college by working at
the Gap. She later worked in various capacities for the
Sandestin Resort. After her second child was born, this
busy mom of two realized she needed a position that
offered more flexibility. Randye and Shawn thought
opening a unique children’s clothing store could be fun
and flexible for a young family.
They began their journey by buying a website in
August 2008. Oma came up with the name for the online
boutique, which was inspired by the grandchildren’s
names: Chloe Emerson (Emme) and Gavin Fitzgerald
(Fitz) “Our journey evolved into brick and mortar once we
realized our inventory was getting too large to manage,”
says Shawn. In April 2009 they opened their first 400
square foot store in the Market Shops in Sandestin.
In fall of 2010 they decided to move to Rosemary
Beach, just 20 minutes away from the old store. With
their new digs, they now have over 1400 square feet of
retail space. “30A was definitely less affected by the oil
spill; we have a lot of customers from Texas and New York
and also from nearby southern states,” says Randye.
collar called “the wedge.” Their toy lines are educationally
oriented. Several come from European companies such
as Playsam in Sweden and Hape in Germany. “We just
picked up a new line that is beach and bath oriented that
we know will give kids endless hours of entertainment,”
says Shawn. “Oma really strives to keep things fresh
and continually introduces new products. It keeps it
exciting and we continue to provide a unique niche in
the children’s market.”
Other specialty items include hand-stamped baby
rattles, angel dolls with the baby’s name monogrammed
across the skirt, seersucker bathing suits, headbands that
look like sunglasses, and the Blessing Ring, which is a fun
way to save birthday cards and prayers or blessings.
A train table and a wooden pirate ship encourage
young visitors to play while parents and grandparents
shop. Customer Kaarina has two granddaughters and a
brand new grandson and
adores fitz and emme.
Rosemary Beach
“I just love to visit with
location
Shawn and Randye and I
love the merchandise, it’s
all so nice. I only live five
minutes away, so it’s a little
dangerous,” she adds.
Ruth Ann is another devoted fan. She says
it all started with a lime
green pettiskirt. “We first
saw it at a silent auction
for our preschool. We did
not win it in the auction
so we had to acquire it
the old fashioned way. If
I need a hand smocked
classic piece for a special
occasion or a super trendy
little number just for fun,
I know I can find it here.
If I had a nickel for every
Fitz and Emme
time I’ve heard ‘where did
you get that,’ I could buy
“We also get the occasional celebrity coming to even more from fitz and emme!”
our store as well,” adds Shawn. Randye travels to shows
Whether you live at the beach or are just visiting
around the world to order unique items for the store, the area, this store should be on everyone’s must do list,
including several lines she found in London that no other whether you have children or not.
store in the U.S. carries, while Shawn manages the books
and loves customer relations.
For more information, check out www.Facebook.com/
Custom bedding lines include Newport Cottages, fitzandemme. The address is 104 N. Barrett Square.
Rikshaw, Doodlefish, and Pom Pom. Clothing lines Hours are Monday-Saturday 10am-6pm and the
include Vineyard Vine, Lily Pulitzer, and Johnny-O, number is (850) 231-3200.
which makes a polo knit for boys that has a stand up
4 0 | t h e t h i r t y- A r e v i e w | j u l y / A u g u s t 2 0 1 1
interiors
Bienvenue, Paris!
by Julie Herron Carson
v
isitors strolling through Ruskin Place, the arts
district of Seaside, Florida, may be surprised to
smell the enticing scent of lavender wafting across
the park or hear the haunting strains of Edith Piaf singing
a French love song. A quick look around and Voilà! An
Apartment in Paris, a new boutique devoted to the style
and cachet of the City of Light, beckons you to enter. Oo
la la! Paris has come to Seaside.
with art, music, a mix of antiques and modern furniture,
one-of-a-kind jewelry, decorative accessories, dishes, and
a small clothing collection.”
It’s no surprise Forbes knows how to set the scene. She
grew up in Ft. Walton Beach, FL, and for years worked as
a set designer for TV shows and as a photography stylist.
Having raised two sons and traveled extensively, she
moved to Seagrove Beach about a dozen years ago.
Bracelets by Mary Kay Samouce
Owner
Sylvia
Forbes has created
a welcoming retail
shop that exudes the
charm and ambiance
of a modern Parisian
apartment. Although
she does carry a number
of French items, like
lavender,
French
soaps, and decorative
accessories, many of
the pieces for sale have
been created by local
and regional artists.
She showcases a large
collection of paintings
from artists both near
and far, including works
by her son, Troy Forbes.
“If you were to visit Parisians in their home, it
wouldn’t be completely furnished with French objects,”
explains Forbes. “People decorate with treasures from
their travels or items they love regardless of the source.
I’ve recreated that atmosphere in my shop by filling it
Wall of Art
The “Kitchen”
because I have filled it with beautiful pieces from my own
travels and interests. Plus, I had a warehouse full of props
and furniture from my styling business, so the idea of
opening An Apartment in Paris grew from there.”
The shop is designed like an actual studio apartment
and visitors are encouraged to linger and chat. The living
room is comfortably crowded with furniture, paintings,
lamps, and chandeliers. Artisan jewelry is displayed on
a sideboard and the walls are covered in paintings from
floor to ceiling.
“People really like the way the paintings are
displayed,” says Forbes. “Here, they can see how effective
it is to mix and match works of art to make a big impact.
Durng my years as a set designer I learned how to pull
together colors, fabrics, textures, and art to create a
certain style. I’m enjoying helping my customers do the
same thing.”
The shop includes a bathroom and kitchen and even
a bedroom closet with clothing for sale. The bathroom
and kitchen are filled with art, small pieces of furniture,
decorative accessories, dishes, wine racks, and more.
With so much to choose from, does Forbes have
any favorites? “I’ve always loved fresh flowers, so I like
to have them in the boutique. I’m also wild about white
dishes and you’ll see an assortment for sale in the kitchen.
They’re great to mix and match with colorful bowls and
platters. I also love the Santa Rosa candles, which are the
pillar candles made for churches and cathedrals.”
The artists represented include both local artists and
those from other parts of the South. Forbes worked with
many of them before opening her boutique and is pleased
to be able to showcase their work in An Apartment in Paris.
She encourages them to attend the First Friday
Art Walks, which the boutique participates in,
and she also hosts Meet the Artist events and
other special activities throughout the season.
Forbes personally endorses all of the
items in her boutique and she is at the shop
daily to talk to her customers about the
pieces and the artists who create them. Like
any good hostess, she wants her guests to feel
comfortable and encourages them to return
often.
Bon Shopping!
“For decades I’ve said if I had just one thing, I’d want
it to be an apartment in Paris,” says Forbes. “When my job
was eliminated following last year’s oil spill in the Gulf,
I kept coming back to that thought. My friends always
say that coming to my house is like going to a boutique
4 2 | t h e t h i r t y- A r e v i e w | j u l y / A u g u s t 2 0 1 1
An Apartment in Paris is located at 210
Ruskin Place in Seaside. Call (850) 5340038 or visit www.anapartmentinparis.net for more
information.
farmer talk
ted Foret Brings his homegrown Crops
to the great southern Café
by Ryan Loftis
An important experience in the Great Southern
Café’s evolution was Shirley’s 2005 trip to Pienza in Italy’s
Tuscany region with the Seaside Institute, a nonprofit
organization dedicated to educating in the fields of
planning, architecture, and development. The trip focused
on the Agricultural Edge, “where the farmland reaches
right up to the cities and is intertwined,” Shirley says. “In
Pienza the tomato fields go directly into the city, and you
Newly planted peppers
Heirloom tomatoes
F
arming has long played a role in Ted Foret’s life.
Growing up in Huntsville, AL, it was his family’s
means of putting food on the table. Since, he has
considered himself an “experimental farmer,” recalling, “I
always farmed a little here and there, on a small scale.”
Well, small scale no more. Not since the fall of
2010, when Foret reached an agreement with Jim Shirley
to provide crops to the Great Southern Café, a Seaside
restaurant Shirley co-owns. It’s a demanding job. “We
serve 1,000 people a day in season,” Shirley says. “That
equals tons of produce.”
Daily seafood selections, organic burgers, Gulf Coast
oysters, and a handpicked wine list are among the Great
Southern Café’s menu items. And, of course, there’s the
globally renowned Grits a Ya Ya, with its smoked Gouda
cheese grits covered with a fresh cream sauce, sautéed
Gulf shrimp, spinach portobello mushrooms, apple
wood-smoked bacon, garlic, and shallots. A Pensacola
native, Shirley grew up traveling the world with his
Navy pilot father. His restaurant reflects his experiences
by combining flavors he was exposed to throughout the
world with traditional Southern cooking.
The source of the crops making their way to Great
Southern Café’s kitchen is a 350-acre compound in
Bruce, approximately 20 minutes from Seaside. Foret is
the only one of the commune’s 16 owners to live there.
“I just built the place for a long weekend a year and a
half ago, and I haven’t left yet,” he says. Each owner has
a 5-acre section for individual use. Foret’s is used for
the restaurant.
With the intense Florida heat, Foret estimates
tomatoes are the hardest crop to grow. As a result,
he’s planted 30 varieties in order to see which will
be “heartiest and most productive.” That number
equals the varieties of peppers in Foret’s garden,
which also includes two varieties of okra, squash,
and cucumbers.
Another challenge this summer has been a
lack of water, but Foret’s farming experience has
allowed him to accept challenges. “It’s taught me
a lot of patience. When you first start out, you
want to will the crops to start producing right
away. You have to have a lot of patience and a lot
of observation to see what’s going on and how the
plants are doing.”
The solution to harmful insects in your
garden when he was growing up, Foret recalls,
was simple: Spray chemicals, regardless of their
potential damage. These days, Foret has an ally in
nature. Releasing 35,000 ladybugs into the garden
to eat the beetles threatening his crops was a huge
success. “They went right to work,”
Foret says. “It was amazing to watch
them do their thing.” Releasing 50
cocoons of praying mantises to fight
threatening insects was similarly
successful and disproved a stereotype
as well: “Most people think they’re
bad, but in the garden they’re one of
the most beneficial.”
When asked about his goals, Foret
says, “Next year, we really want to see
it come to life.” Shirley is confident it
will: “We are looking for a great crop
this year and quadrupling size next
year. Ted is a renaissance guy. He does
everything. He’s sinking his whole
heart and soul into this project.”
end up with a better food experience.”
He also met people who had helped
establish the career of Alice Waters,
an American pioneer in a culinary
philosophy that believes the best and
freshest seasonal ingredients, produced
sustainably and locally, should be used
in cooking. “Replicating the Alice
Waters experience and the Tuscan
experience became a goal.”
It was through bringing customers
of his Santa Rosa Beach business, New
View Windows & Doors, to the Great
Southern Café that Foret met Shirley.
Foret, looking for a new challenge
after 20 years with his business, would
listen to stories of Shirley’s difficulties
acquiring foods he wanted to cook. “It
For more information on Ted Foret, call
seemed natural for the two of us to be Farmer Ted Foret and Abigail
(850) 598 – 0964 or e-mail tedforet@
trying to work together,” Foret says. “I
gmail.com. For more information about the
said to Jim, ‘Look, let me give it a shot, and we’ll see what Great Southern Café, visit www.thegreatsoutherncafe.com.
happens.’ This year is experimental for both of us.”
4 4 | t h e t h i r t y- A r e v i e w | j u l y / A u g u s t 2 0 1 1
SUMMER
2011
Main Stage:
The Stinky
Cheese
Man
How I
Became a
Pirate
The
Commedia
Pinocchio
Alice’s
Adventures in
Wonderland
Around the
World in
80 Days
Mondays
7:00 pm
May 23 - Aug 8
Seaside
Amphitheater
Free
Tuesdays
7:00 pm
May 31 - Aug 2
WaterColor
Amphitheater
Free
Wednesdays
6:30 pm
June 1 - Aug 10
Rosemary Beach
N. Barrett Sq.
Free
Thursdays
6:30 pm
June 9 - Aug 11
Alys Beach
Amphitheater
Free
Thur/Fri/Sat
7:30 pm
June 16 - July 30
Seaside Meeting
Hall Theatre
$25
tickets &
i n f o r m at i o n :
SEASON
SPONSOR:
seasiderep.org
FACEBOOK.COM/SEASIDEREP
850-231-0733
real estate
Beach rentals of Florida: Beating guest’s
expectations while showing them Paradise
by Ryan Loftis
t
he Beach Rentals of Florida goal:
Seaside Rental Property
Providing first rate vacations in 30-A
communities. Just how does the staff
of this Santa Rosa Beach full service luxury
rental and property management company
define first rate? Chief Operating Officer
John Wellborn cites three factors. “One, we
beat the guest’s expectations. Two, the guest
feels welcome and part of our family. Three,
the guest experiences a taste of the incredible
lifestyle opportunity 30-A has to offer.”
His passion for that lifestyle is evident
as Wellborn discusses 30-A. “I feel very
lucky to live here and I want to share that
with our guests and homeowners and help
them get the most out of their experiences.
We offer a high quality experience. It is
very easy to fit in here. That’s why so many
people choose our area to vacation. Did I
mention the crystal clear water and white
sugar sand beaches?” The typical visitor
reaction is clearly positive. “Almost all
visitors will either choose to come back year
after year, purchase a second home here, or
move here permanently.” Wellborn himself
falls into the last category, having left behind
a very successful Atlanta insurance company.
“I decided I was ready to listen to my heart
and move to the beach. Within 30 days I
had sold my home and become a resident on
30-A, and I haven’t looked back since.”
Beach Rentals of Florida was established
in January of 2010 as a result of Wellborn’s
company Live Well Properties and Concierge
joining forces with Beach Properties of
Florida, a boutique real estate agency. The
companies’ work styles complemented each other. “We can eliminate any stress and make the vacation easier, that
are both hands on when it comes to our customers,” is what we are all about. The guests come to spend time
Wellborn says. “Making sure the customer feels welcome with family. Offering services that can increase that time
and appreciated is something both companies work very and help the guests are very important to us.”
Indeed, place your grocery order with the staff in
hard at.” Beach Properties of Florida principles John
David Sullivan, Hunter Harman, and Prince Rainer co- advance and arrive to find your pantry and refrigerator
own the year-old company with Wellborn. David Sullivan, full. You can also catch your own food thanks to half- and
John David’s father and founder of ResortQuest, the full-day charter boat fishing trips. It would be difficult
world’s largest rental management company, is the fifth to imagine a better photograph background than a
owner. With such a pedigree, it’s no surprise Wellborn glistening 30-A beach. Luckily, picture package deals are
felt Beach Rentals of Florida’s inaugural year “exceeded available. There’s luxury to enjoy in doors as well with
all of my expectations! I am confident that growth and a variety of spa services, including massages, manicures,
and pedicures available.
improvement will continue for years to come.”
How to get around town? Take your pick. Shuttle
Clients have access to a wide range of concierge
services. “We feel that’s an important part of the services -- taking you to and from the airports as well
experience when staying with us,” Wellborn says. “If we to local destinations – are available, and so is the street
4 6 | t h e t h i r t y- A r e v i e w | j u l y / A u g u s t 2 0 1 1
legal cart, a golf cart equipped for the open road. Rent
bikes for the day or week and get free delivery, pick-up,
helmets, and locks, although baby seats will cost a little
extra. Speaking of babies, Beach Rentals of Florida is
prepared, with cribs, strollers, and high chairs available.
Need a babysitter, too? No problem.
Along with passion, Wellborn considers attention
to detail an integral part of his company’s success. “It’s
something that homeowners and guests constantly
compliment. Each homeowner and guest has specific
needs. Our primary interest is meeting those needs and
allowing them to experience our area in their own way.
You can talk to any of our homeowners: We care about
their experience, not only with Beach Rentals of Florida,
but the area as a whole.” He praises the staff ’s dedication.
“The level of care that the entire staff strives for makes a
big difference. We are very lucky to have some of the best
people on 30-A working here.”
John Wellborn
Looking ahead, “We want to continue to provide
the highest level of service,” Wellborn says. “That said,
we do want to add a few select homes that we feel will
provide our guests more options for different experiences.
Last, we want to continue to improve on the systems and
service we have. Every day is another day to make a good
impression, and that is very important to us!”
For more information, visit www.beachrentalsoffl.com
or call (866) 678-8641.
real estate
timing is everything
b y A n n e Wi n i c k i
M
y real estate career began in
April 1999 with the St. Joe
Company. We had 90 lots to
sell and received multiple reservations
on nearly all of the lots. At the time
I thought this is how you sell real
estate—a developer releases a property,
buyers appear, and the majority pay
cash (little did I know then). I tried to
convince my dad to put in a reservation
for a $230,000 lot. He said he would
never pay that much for a piece of land;
it sold a few years later for $940,000.
Timing is everything.
Then I moved to WaterColor for
seven years with St. Joe and watched
it transform from scrub oaks to the
amazing community you see today.
During the height of the market,
properties sold for full price quicker
than you could get them on the market.
It was a crazy time. There were many
“flip” transactions, where properties
were bought and sold over a very short
period at a hefty profit to the seller.
Those properties purchased at the
height of the market years ago are the
majority of the “deals” that are selling
today. Most of the short sales and
foreclosures being purchased this year
are from that period. This year, the
absorption rate for distressed properties
Anne Winicki
What is driving this influx of sales? What makes this
year different from the past few years? The single most
important factor is PRICE. Competitive pricing sets
2011 apart from years past. As properties priced to sell
move off the market, buying opportunities decrease. Does
that mean there won’t be opportunities? No, but it does
mean that your favorite condo may sell and the condo
left on the market may be your second or third choice.
There will always be real estate for sale, but will it be in
the community you want at the price you want to pay?
According to the Emerald Coast Board of Realtors, as of
May closed sales are up 25.62 percent over last year in the
30-A area. When properties are selling for half of what
the previous owner paid just a few years ago it’s a good
indication that now is the time to buy. Additionally, the
buyers pool has increased and will continue to increase.
The new Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport
in Panama City Beach, housing Southwest, Delta, and
Northwest Airlines, has been instrumental. Direct flights
on Southwest are bringing a whole new demographic.
Fort Walton’s Northwest Florida Regional Airport also
offers direct flights on Vision Airlines, which services 14
states and 24 destinations.
For buyers looking at offsetting carrying costs with
rental revenue the numbers are also up. Summer vacations
were booked early. By mid-May it was difficult to find
vacancies, both in the peak period and into the off-season,
with rentals strong most weekends throughout October,
November, Christmas, and into the New Year.
Savvy buyers who have watched our area and
patiently waited until the right time to purchase realize
the time is now. We have dealt with the real estate boom
Competitive pricing sets
2011 apart from years past.
is very high and they are beginning to disappear. Areas
that once had 15 homes to choose from in a specific price
range now have two to three homes left in that range.
Timing is everything.
A decade later, I am with Beach Properties of Florida
and I am lucky enough to work in the same on-site sales
office at WaterSound Beach that I worked in with St. Joe.
It’s a great location in a special community that has been
full of activity this year. As of mid-May, WaterSound
Beach had 36 properties under contract or sold for 2011
compared to 53 properties sold for all of 2010, according
to the Emerald Coast Association of Realtors. Those are
strong numbers and they are not specific to Watersound
Beach; there are many communities along 30-A that are
up 50% or more in sales over last year.
4 8 | t h e t h i r t y- A r e v i e w | j u l y / A u g u s t 2 0 1 1
and bust, Mother Nature and the oil spill; yet 30-A real
estate continues to flourish. Prices are stabilizing. If you
are considering a property along 30-A, don’t wait. Call
with questions and begin your due diligence. Research
the communities of interest, compare prices, study your
comps; but most importantly love your property. Unlike
other investments, when you buy real estate, you can
actually enjoy it immediately! See you at the beach!
Anne Winicki is a Sales Executive at the WaterSound
Beach Office of Beach Properties of Florida. She can be
reached at (850) 960-1179 or (850) 213-5150 or anne.
[email protected].
real estate
scott Cobine of the Premier Property group
by H.M. Cauley
t
he economy may be sluggish, but it hasn’t quashed
the longing to be at the beach. And that’s kept Scott
Cobine of The Premier Property Group busy with
clients who dream of waking up with the sound of the
waves wafting through the windows.
“We’re certainly not as busy as we were in ‘03 to
‘05,” said Cobine, “but we’re definitely coming around.
Every day I read national trends, but I know what we’re
seeing here is a little different. We’re up 30 percent up
over last year in the number of transactions, and up 28
percent in volume.”
As an agent, Scott Cobine has been marketing 30-A
properties for 11 years and the bulk of that business is
still largely second homes. “There’s no doubt this area is
growing,” he said. “We do get some people moving here
full time, but a lot of people buying still have the means
to own a second home.”
Add to those means the ability to buy the allure of
the 30-A area, and the combination is often a winner
for agents.
“The beaches and the coastal dune lakes are
beautiful, of course,” said Cobine. “But there’s also a
small town feel, with great restaurants, shopping, lots of
state land, and recreational opportunities. A lot of people
from the northeast and down as far as Miami come here
because they appreciate the slower pace with less of that
hustle and bustle.”
of homes here, but I’d say most
people are looking for something
different from their primary
home,” said Cobine. “They go
for the classic beach cottages and
the more modern styles. Either
way, the houses seem to be getting bigger, which is also bucking the trend of more people are
downsizing. I think that’s because
people who buy these houses
want them to accommodate
multigenerational use: grandma,
grandpa, the kids, and their nine
grandchildren all want to spend a
week a beach together.”
Prices in the 30-A corridor
range from $300,000 to $9
million. “You can get a cute little
one-story house within a 5- or
10-minute walk to the beach, or
you can find gulf-front properties
of 6,000 to 7,000 square feet,”
said Cobine.
But no matter where buyers
want to be, they’re assured of
Scott Cobine
the beaches and the coastal dune
lakes are beautiful, of course…But
there’s also a small town feel, with great
restaurants, shopping, lots of state
land, and recreational opportunities.
Cobine also believes that buyers will discover terrific
values in homes throughout the area, with a broad
selection of inventory, favorable interest rates and a
resilient local market.
“Those of us in the trenches are seeing increased
interest and transactions as buyers who have been
putting off purchasing are now moving forward,” he
said. “Demand is increasing; the availability of properties
is decreasing.”
But buyers will still be able to find a good number of
newly-constructed, single-family residences in a range of
styles from which to choose. “We have all different types
finding a pristine beachfront within a few minutes. “The
beach here isn’t lined with high rises,” said Cobine. “That
really helps keep the town feeling more small-town; a
place you want to come to reconnect with family.”
Scott Cobine is a Realtor of The Premier Property
Group. For more information, visit their web site at:
www.thepremierpropertygroup.com or call him at one
of the following numbers. Cell: (850) 974-9055 Office:
(850) 231-6500 Toll-free: (877) 554-6300
5 0 | t h e t h i r t y- A r e v i e w | j u l y / A u g u s t 2 0 1 1
THE HOTTEST NEW RESTAURANT ON
30a
BAR SPECIAL HAPPY HOUR - 5-7pm AND 9pm-Close
Happy Hour - 1/2 Price Wine, Beer & Sushi 4-6pm Daily
Ladies Night - 1/2 Price Drinks For Ladies Wednesdays 4pm – close
Sunday Champagne Brunch - 10:30am - 3pm
25 CENTRAL SQ. SEASIDE • 850.468.0703 • CRUSH30A.COM
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850.231.4050 • Seagrill30A.com • 10343 HWY 30A, Seacrest Beach
communities
Alys Beach; a refined way of Coastal living
by R i d g e l ey S ta n d a rd
i
magine living in a vacation. Sunshiny days. Blues
skies. Ocean breezes….you only have to imagine the
community of Alys Beach, “an oasis of luxury with a
distinct Mediterranean feel.” A sustainable luxury home
community located along Scenic Hwy 30-A on the sugar
white sands and turquoise green waters of the Gulf of
Mexico, Alys Beach is quality living at its finest.
Nestled among the bustling planned developments
along Florida’s Emerald Coast, Alys Beach embraces a
distinctive aesthetic inspired by Bermuda and Antigua,
Guatamala architecture, and introduces a new vision
of Florida architecture The European grace-meetsCaribbean inspiration boasts
pristine
white
masonry Alys Beach
walls and rooftops set off by
colored shutters and accents.
“Alys Beach homes reflect
clean and simple designs
built to ‘Fortified Standards’,
providing stronger homes for
safer living,” summarizes VP
of Sales Tom Dodson.
“The real estate in the
area has certainly changed
with the influence of the
new urban communities
along Scenic Hwy 30A. This
part of Florida has some of
the best-planned Traditional
Neighborhood Developments
in the US. People are drawn to
these towns where vehicles are
parked and walking or biking
become the mode of transportation,” explains
Dodson. “Our owners are a relatively young
audience with very active lifestyles and a desire
for a place that delivers meaningful experiences
for their family.
“It has been very encouraging to see
customers choosing to move to the area on a
permanent basis, especially now with the new
International airport. We realize that with
today’s technology people can live anywhere as
long as they can travel for work or pleasure with
relative ease,” Dodson continues. “And the eclectic way of
life offered on Scenic Highway 30A and the special places
that have been created have added to its appeal for people
seeking primary or vacation homes.”
Alys Beach is one of those special places of which
Dodson refers. Featuring custom-built homes and
homesites, the community offers an aesthetic for the
most discerning of clientele. The defined vision for Alys
Beach resulted in an urban setting where homes are
within walking distance of centralized amenities. Alys
Beach has a town plan conducive to pedestrian traffic and
strong sense of community.
As the last Gulf Front town to be developed on 30A,
Alys Beach takes the best of old-world charm and combines
it with the latest innovations in architecture, resulting in
classic style combined with modern convenience. The
community features sidewalks that meander between
gracious courtyard homes – encouraging walking rather
than driving, making amenities such as the Caliza Pool and
Restaurant, Fonville Press, George’s, and the 20-acre nature
trail a comfortable, flip-flop walk from your doorstep.
Beach is intentionally designed and laid out to foster
social elements, while at the same time providing private
outdoor space,” Dodson says.
Ultimately, Alys Beach is a community that tries to
encourage a more sustainable way to live. Alys Beach homes
are built to the Florida Green Building Coalition Standards
and thus are considered to be “green homes”, designed to
have less environmental impact than conventionally built
residences. In fact, the entire Alys Beach community is a
model of commitment to environmental responsibility.
Dodson says, “By embracing sustainable practices, such
as a walkable town design and energy-efficient home
Baekgaard Cottage
Nesbitt
The beach homes offer gourmet kitchens, cozy
fireplaces, and spacious central courtyards. Community
spaces replace large, private yards, while small
courtyards within individual homes provide privacy,
airflow, temperature regulation and plenty of ambient
light. “The courtyards are a big differentiator for our
community and the way in which owners live in their
homes. These intimate courtyards are hidden to public
spaces; they are mysterious and keep their secrets. Alys
5 2 | t h e t h i r t y- A r e v i e w | j u l y / A u g u s t 2 0 1 1
Van Skiver
construction, Alys Beach
aspires to greener living.”
In addition to spectacular
real estate among stunning
natural beauty, one can enjoy
a wide mix of urban and rural
adventures at Alys Beach. As a
true self-sufficient community,
an abundance of amenities are
available for one’s enjoyment.
Good food, shopping, fitness,
outdoor activities, entertainment, and monthly planned
events are all part of the Alys Beach commitment to a
better way of life.
Alys Beach is located at 9581 E. County Hwy 30A in
Alys Beach, FL. For more information on real estate
or vacation rentals, they can be found online at www.
alysbeach.com or call toll free at (866) 732-1760.
The Beach Group
Always on the Ball…….Only at The Beach
Homesites in WaterColor from the $100’s • Homesites in WaterSound Beach from the $100’s
WaterColor
65 Buttercup St.
4 Br/4.5 Ba
Phase I – fully furnished
$1,295,000.
WaterColor
155 Bluejack St.
6 Br/6.5 Ba
Custom Built
$1,695,000
WaterSound Beach
10 Tidepool Lane
5 Br/5.5 Ba
2 Car Garage/Carriage House
$1,595,000
WaterColor
147 Scrub Oak Circle
4 Br /4 Ba
Backs to Private Forest
Great Location in PH III
$1,295,000
Gulf Front
Sand Cliffs
WaterColor
54 Thicket Circle
4 Br/4.5 Ba
Brand New Construction
$1,195,000
WaterColor
394 Red Cedar Way
Backs to Open Space
3 Br/3 Ba, Quiet location
Custom Built. $799,900
112 Sand Cliffs Dr.
3 Br/2 Ba
2 car garage
$1,200,000
WaterColor
12 Viridian Park
4 Br/4 Ba
Gulf Views/Phase I
$1,995,000
Stallworth Preserve
8 Stallworth Lane
Huge Gulf front Lot
83x350
$2,100,000
WaterColor
93 Vermillion Way
6 Br/6 Ba
Freshly Painted
Lake Front
$2,495,000
129 Geoff Wilder Lane
5 Br /5 Ba
Amazing Gulf Views
$1,075,000
Seagrove Beach
25 Kristi Lane
4 Br /4.5 Ba
Spectacular Gulf views
South of 30A
$1,095,000
The Beach Group Properties
3 Scenic 30-A locations to serve you!
3648 W. Scenic Hwy 30-A ~ 850-622-0107
5281 E. Scenic Hwy 30-A ~ 850- 231-4888
2563 S Scenic Hwy 395 ~ 850-231-9007
Sandy Shores
80 Sandy Shores Ct
6 Br/5 Ba
Private Pool
South of 30A
$1,295,000
307 Red Cedar Way
5 Br /4 Ba
Large Corner Lot
$995,000
Seaside
Located in the Heart of Seaside
Beautiful G ulf Views
#A-3 2 Br/2 Ba
$885,000
Penthouse #B 3 Br/3Ba
$1,550,000
#B-2 4 Br/3.5 Ba
$1,590,000
Tom and Nancy Dudley
Ron Romano
Andy Wiggins
Danielle Cunard
Bobby Johnson
James Watts
Sherry Carter
Beverly Johnson
Stafford Von Hoene
Randy and Karen Holder Bob and Karye Carney
Julie Torrence
Jennifer Brown
Ben Giles
Debi Starr
Lisa Brooks
Francesca Parker Gage
Ed Stanford
Tommy Brantley
Bernadette Flannery
Karen Ruden
Chad and Hilary Farnum
Brian Kozak
Matthew Ellington
Leslie Lee
View all listings on 30-A at:
www.TheBeachGroup.com
(850) 622-0107
WaterColor
Lyceum Condos
West End of 30A
4549 Hwy 30A
6 Br/8 Ba
Fully Fenced Compound
Private Pool $4,195,000
More Great Buys on 30-A
Waters Edge
WaterColor
29 Dandelion Drive
6 Br/4.5 Ba, Completely Remodeled – Brand New Garage
$1,645,000
around town
sunQuest Dinner Cruises
by Susanna Bartoldus
Quail paired with the American Pale Ale,
Braised Pork Shoulder with the South Coast
IPA, and a Country Fried Veal Cutlet with
30A Brewing’s Amber Ale. The finale was
Polenta Pound Cake with local dewberries,
brown sugar, and Chantilly cream paired
with a velvety stout.
Each paired course was a delicious
collaboration. Chef Huckaby takes confident
liberties with each dish and his flavors are
balanced without playing it safe. My favorite
was the braised pork shoulder seasoned with
cayenne, served with a cornmeal “johnny
cake,” arugula, and a segment of Ruby Red
grapefruit to temper the heat. This course
was masterfully matched with Brewmaster
Hank Standridge’s South Coast IPA. This
hoppy brew took on hints of citrus and was
light in body. Standridge explained that his
Solaris Yacht
brew making approach to the dinner was
designed to introduce newcomers to craft
Tennessee Firearms
beer styles by using a delicate hand. As a craft
beer enthusiast who loves IPAs in particular,
I surprisingly found my overall beer favorite
Grilled Georgia Pharoah Quail
to be the Stout. It was lighter bodied than
most Stouts and was reminiscent of a Porter
brewmaster and has produced over 600 with coffee and chocolate notes. Paired with the dessert
batches of beer in 27 distinct varieties. course, it played its role beautifully.
The sold out event featured a 5 course
In the dinner afterglow, guests are left to enjoy the
“southern-inspired” dinner with craft music and starry views. There is room for dancing and the
brew pairings plus live music from bar remains open. The cruise lasts until about 10 pm and
local bluegrass favorites, the Tennessee the yacht returns to the Baytowne marina, where diners
Firearms. All this while sailing our own can enjoy the nearby nightlife of Baytowne Wharf.
beautiful Choctawhatchee Bay on the
SunQuest offers its dinner cruises several times a
125-foot long Solaris.
week, all year round. Public special event cruises like the
n any given day, SunQuest Dinner Cruises
Each cruise starts from the Baytowne Marina where Craft Brew Dinner are new to the Solaris this year. The
takes dining out and elevates it to an eventful guests are welcomed onboard by the Captain. The yacht last of the series will be September 1st with a Bourbon
occasion. A 3-hour tour aboard the Solaris is is three levels, with two dining rooms and a full bar on and Barbeque dinner which looks to be stacking up
filled with live music, sunset and starry views over the the second level. There is also a sky deck for taking in to be a fantastic event. Chef James Huckaby will be
water, and memorable cuisine. The 5200 square foot the exceptional views. After exploring the ship, I enjoyed designing a multi-course dinner paired with small batch
yacht was recently host to a Craft Beer Dinner, the first of seating at a table with a great view of the Tennessee bourbons. For this and other offerings, you can check
hopefully many events of its kind. This outstanding event Firearms as they kicked off the evening with their own out the schedule and make reservations online at www.
showcased everything SunQuest Cruises has to offer with brand of bluegrass magic.
sunquestcruises.com.
30-A flair.
As the sun started to set, Chef Huckaby’s first of five
The highly anticipated 30A Brewing Company will
The evening brought together an outstanding menu courses was served with 30A Brewing’s exclusively crafted be a full production and packaging facility of a variety
collaboration between SunQuest Chef James Huckaby beer pairing. The “South Walton Ceviche” balanced the of craft beer styles. “We aim to both introduce people to
and Brewmaster Hank Standridge of the upstarting 30A flavors of Pompano, Snapper, Flounder, and Blue Crab craft beer with simpler, more accessible styles and show
Brewing Company. Chef Huckaby hails from notable with a hint of red bell pepper, Vidalia onion, orange, passionate beer drinkers that we want to push the envelope
Birmingham restaurants Highlands Bar & Grill, Bottega, and mint. It was paired with the light and citrus hinted with new taste profiles they’ve never encountered before.”
and Chez Fonfon. Standridge studied at the Siebel Institute Blonde Ale. This pairing was a harbinger of great things
in Chicago and the Doemens Academy in Munich, to come, as the two complimented each other beautifully. For more information, you can check out their website
Germany. He has eight years of recipe formulation as a The next three courses featured Grilled Georgia Pharaoh at www.30abrewingcompany.com.
O
5 4 | t h e t h i r t y- A r e v i e w | j u l y / A u g u s t 2 0 1 1
30-A reads
30-A style
by Julie Herron Carson
F
or those of us who love beautiful homes, the towns
along 30-A inspire and delight with their cottages,
private retreats, and family vacation homes. As
I walk or cycle along 30-A, I admire
the design of my favorite houses and
wonder what the interiors look like and
who lives there. And, truth be told, I’ve
Estes Porch
often pictured myself inside, enjoying the
spectacular view or relaxing on the porch.
I assumed I was destined only to admire
from afar, but now, with the publication
of 30A Style, an exquisite coffee table
book written by Eleanor Lynn Nesmith
with photos by Jean Allsopp, I’m able to
explore some of 30-A’s loveliest homes
from the comfort of my own beach chair.
30-A resident Eleanor Lynn Nesmith Lynn Nesmith
began her career with Architecture portrait by Sheila Goode
Magazine and later served as architecture
editor of Southern Living. In addition to
writing for numerous other magazines, she is the 30A Opening
Fulmer House by Bobby McApline
author of Seaside Style and Instant Architecture. Jean
Allsopp is a nationally acclaimed photographer who
worked for over a decade as senior photographer
for Southern Living and Coastal Living, and has
contributed to a number of other publications.
She resides in Birmingham, AL.
30A Style profiles exceptional private residences in some of the area’s best-loved communities, including Rosemary Beach, WaterSound, Alys Beach,
Seagrove Beach, Seaside, WaterColor, Grayton
Beach, and more. Along the way, we learn about
the owners and how they have infused their own
30A Style provides the reader with the history
lifestyle? Some owners have names we recognize, like
personalities and creativity into their homes and often into of the various beach communities and explains the visual Seaside Founders Robert and Daryl Davis, Restaurateurs
the fabric of 30-A. To quote Nesmith:
style and culture of each town. The book also includes George and Ann Hartley, and Vera Bradley, co-founder of
homes along the area’s beautiful coastal dune lakes. Barbara Bradley Backgaard.
“New Urbanist towns inform 30A with an
Because these retreats are somewhat off the beaten path,
The more iconic structures are familiar even to
architectural swagger and style all its own with
they might be homes the reader has not seen in person, infrequent visitors. Other homes are hidden down
each community complementing the next the way
which makes it all the more enjoyable to discover them.
neighborhoods enhance one another in a real city.
quiet roads. They range from casual to elegant, simple
Jean Allsopp’s photos are breathtaking and I savored to elaborate, beach houses to courtyard homes to
The diverse beach towns and individual homes of
each one as I turned the pages. She showcases interiors, townhouses. As Nesmith says:
30A are a remarkable proving ground of design
and a reflection of a better way to live along the
exteriors, unique architectural details, and landscapes,
“Some houses command attention with their
coast. This book celebrates the old and new, grand
and occasionally gives us a glimpse of the owners going
grand architectural aspirations, while others draw you
and modest, funky and formal. What unites these
about their daily lives. The photos emphasize the textures
in with the sheer grace and utter charm of the owners.”
structures is an appreciation of aesthetics, a respect
and colors that make 30-A famous and are reflected in
Eleanor Lynn Nesmith and Jean Allsopp drew me
for the land and a love of the beach. Whether built
the homes’ decor – the white sand, the blue-green sea, the
60 years ago as a rustic getaway or months ago as
into
30A Style with the sheer grace and utter charm of
green and brown landscape, and the rose hues of sunrise
a permanent residence, each is a genuine personal
their
words and photos. Now, rather than admiring my
and sunset.
expression, an architectural gem and a place to call
favorite
houses only from the outside, I feel like I’ve spent
The homeowners warmly welcome the reader inside
home along the Gulf.”
a
little
time inside, too, discovering how these lovely
their private spaces and share a little bit about themselves,
homes
and
their owners contributes to that elusive quality
too. How did they choose this home? What makes it
known
as
30-A
style.
uniquely theirs? How does it reflect their taste and their
5 6 | t h e t h i r t y- A r e v i e w | j u l y / A u g u s t 2 0 1 1
balance
balance
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We offer a variety of yoga styles, vinyasa,
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Dr. Bart Precourt provides a safe and gentle
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legal eagles
tomorrowitis
b y F r a n k Wa t s o n
w
hy do people procrastinate, especially when it
comes to something as
fundamental as their Life & Estate
Planning? Because it is human nature to avoid unpleasant experiences
and difficult people. Period.
For example, when it comes
to experiences, disability and death
are certainly not at the top of
anyone’s must do list. American life
expectancies are increasing with
every medical miracle. But every
man, woman and child alive today
will eventually experience death
(according to the actuarial tables of
every life insurance company—and
a long history of anecdotal evidence
in support). The longer you live, the
greater your chances of wearing out
physically and mentally before you
pass on. Just visit any local nursing
home or hospital for proof.
When it comes to avoiding
difficult people, most people need
not wander too far from their
own family tree. And while many
Americans live in a world of almost
unlimited choices, few are able
Frank Watson
to pick their own parents or their
own children’s spouses. In a sense,
every extended family is a unique, dynamic ensemble of
individual personalities and values. Just like a musical
ensemble, family relationships can produce beautiful
music or horrific noise, and oftentimes they produce a
little of both.
excuses, excuses
The handmaiden of procrastination is rationalization.
We human beings have an uncanny ability to rationalize
our procrastination, commonly in the form of excuses.
Here are a few representative excuses to postpone proper
Life & Estate Planning, along with tongue-in-cheek
responses to each of them.
We don’t have time because we are getting ready to do
some traveling.
Unfortunately, most people spend more time packing their
luggage than they do making proper Life & Estate Plans.
My daughter is too busy with work
to come with me for an initial
consultation.
Perhaps she is busy, but would
she rather wait until you are
incapacitated or dead, and then
take personal time from work and/
or from an already crowded family
calendar to sort through your assets,
squabble with her siblings, hire an
attorney and develop a first-name
relationship with the probate judge.
Since my children all get along, there’s
no need to bother with any planning.
You may be right. They certainly will
know your special wishes regarding
your home, your bank accounts, and
your investments; not to mention
your one-of-a-kind heirlooms (like the
kind over which you and your siblings
fought after your parents died).
We don’t have an estate tax problem.
Why, my business has no value
without me. Perhaps, but the IRS
may not agree with you, especially
given your inventory, equipment,
real, estate, loyal customer base, and
goodwill. Aside from potential estate
tax problems, what plans have you
made for the continuation or sale of your business? The
business you worked decades to build could crumble in a
few months or be sold for pennies on the dollar to satisfy
the IRS and infra-family inheritance conflicts.
It’s too expensive.
You have spent a lifetime building your wealth, by
working hard and making a good return on your
investments. Doesn’t it make good business sense to
invest in professional fees now to avoid unnecessary
taxes, protect your financial legacy (both from and
for your children, as appropriate) and preserve family
harmony later on? What price tag can you put on that
return on investment?
We have all heard tragic stories about fortunes
lost and families torn apart upon a parent’s incapacity
or death, often due to poor planning or no planning.
Conversely, you will enjoy greater peace of mind when
you overcome procrastination through the Life & Estate
Planning process.
5 8 | t h e t h i r t y- A r e v i e w | j u l y / A u g u s t 2 0 1 1
conclusion
Proper Life & Estate Planning is a Lifetime Process.
Once your plan is implemented, it must be properly
maintained as important changes inevitably occur in
your life, the lives of your loved ones, and to the nature,
value, and mix of your assets. In addition, as long as
Congress is in session and the Oval Office is occupied,
no wallet is safe.
ask yourself:
These Questions Regarding “Tomorrowitis.”
1. I have selected financial fiduciaries, both primary
and secondary, and am confident that they can
handle the responsibilities and risks involved in
serving.
Yes
No
Not Sure
2. I have identified and valued all of my assets in a
written inventory to assist my financial fiduciaries
with their responsibilities in the event of my
incapacity or death.
Yes
No
Not Sure
3. I have selected guardians (i.e., back-up parents)
for my minor children in the event they are
orphaned.
Yes
No
Not Sure
4. I have reviewed and coordinated the beneficiary
designations of my life insurance and retirement
plans with my overall Life & Estate Plan
objectives.
Yes
No
Not Sure
5. I have made arrangements in my Life & Estate
Plan to safeguard, manage and distribute my
assets (to include heirlooms) to loved ones
according to my wishes.
Yes
No
Not Sure
6. I have made arrangements in my Life & Estate
Plan to provide for my favorite charities upon my
incapacity and/or death.
Yes
No
Not Sure
Frank Watson has been conducting real estate closings
along 30A Since 1997. For more information, please
contact: Watson Sewell, PL (850) 231-3465 - www.
watsonsewell.com and South Walton Title (850) 2313467 - www.southwaltontitle.com.
· g r e at s o u t h e rn ca f É ·
N E W - F A S H I O N E D
H AP PY H O U R 4–6 DAI LY
$ 5 D OZ E N OY ST E R S , 2-FO R- O N E C O C K TAI LS
B R E A K F A S T
S O U T H E R N
C U I S I N E
B E ST B U R G E R O N 3 0 A
ANT I B I OT I C/H O R M O N E-F R E E B E E F G R O U N D I N - H O U S E D AI LY
·
L U N C H
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D I N N E R
O P E N 8 A .M. DA I LY · 83 C E N T R AL S Q UAR E · S E AS I D E, F L A. · ( 85 0) 231- 7327
gscafe_30areview_12.09.indd 1
12/22/09 4:43:47 PM
turf talk
the eighteen Mile sugar white sand trap
b y To m F i t z p a t r i c k
t
get your
kids involved
too – no
golf club
is needed.
hirty-A’s beaches are a great place to relax and spend
family time. That usually means bringing lots of
beach items to keep the kids entertained. Here
are four ideas on how to use that beach stuff to also get
warmed up for your round of golf. Get your kids involved
too – no golf club is needed.
Beach Ball – Place a beach ball between your forearms.
Then swing your arms half way back and half way through.
The beach ball will create a synchronized swinging of the
arms and chest. In my years of watching Faldo, Price, and
other top pros in their private range sessions this was a
recurring theme. Why? Because it unlocks the key to great
timing. The blending of the arms and body, whereby they
do not work independently, but rather together is what
the best strive for. You can even try this on a chipping
green. Make a few swings with it and tap into that subtle
rhythm – a rhythm as relaxing as the waves on the beach.
Sand Shovel – Try this exercise next time you are digging
sand for your next beach castle. If you play right handed,
place your left hand on your right shoulder. Then hold a
3’ long shovel in your right hand. Now push the shovel
through the sand with a slow motion half swing. Feel your
right shoulder and hip moving through with the shovel.
As you push the sand forward begin to straighten your
left leg through impact. It is an explosive power move that
will get sand excavated in no time.
Frisbee Toss – Throw a WaterColor Frisbee back handed.
Extend your left arm (for the right-handed golfer) out as
you release the Frisbee. Many golfers who slice the ball
have poor arm extension in that critical ‘two feet past the
ball’ range. Extend your arms!
Boogie Board – Create air resistance using a boogie board
from Bombora in Rosemary Beach. Place your hands on
the board as shown in the photo and swing it through
impact. Try to push the most amount of air forward. An
incorrect board angle produces little resistance.
Getting out of the Sand Trap – For a normal bunker
shot, it helps to understand how the club glides through
the sand. Try this while sitting in your beach chair. Hit
the sand with the side edge of your hand. See how it cuts
into the sand with a thud. Now use the palm of your
hand to skip across the sand. See how your hand glides
easily across creating a splashing effect. You’ll want to use
the second approach most of the time on the golf course.
Don’t forget to open the clubface by turning the toe of the
club to the right at address. Use the bottom of your sand
wedge to splash the sand forward, not cut or dig into the
sand. This also applies to lob shots from the rough.
Etiquette Tip – If you don’t make it out of the sand trap
after two or three tries during a casual golf round, throw
the ball out of the trap and play it from there. Others will
appreciate it.
Tom Fitzpatrick, a realtor with Premier Property
Group in WaterColor and Seacrest Beach, was ranked
#1 on 30-A in properties sold in 2008. He’s had clients
discuss homes and condos with him on the course and
range as it’s a great way to identify communities and
narrow down choices. Call if you’d like to hear about 30A’s great real estate opportunities over golf. Fitzpatrick
can be reached at (850) 225-4674 or [email protected]
6 0 | t h e t h i r t y- A r e v i e w | j u l y / A u g u s t 2 0 1 1
t h e t h i r t y- A r e v i e w | j u l y / A u g u s t 2 0 1 1 | v i i