Beachcomber Aug. 6-19, 2009 Edition

“Where to go. What to do. What you need to know.” August 6, 2009

www.thebeachcomber.org

FREE and Fortnightly Volume 9, Issue 15

Musician David Seering Page 11

Bill Campbell on the Beast and baby J’s Page 6

The Emerald Coast’s Premier Entertainment Newspaper

Baytowne House Band Coconut Radio Page 14

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The Beachcomber A ugust 6, 2009 - August 19, 2009

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Contents

Editorial

About Our Cover Artist.........................................................Page 5 The Roving Rogue — by Bill Campbell................................Page 6 Harbor View — by Charles Morgan.....................................Page 7 The Beachcomber Neighborhood......................................Page 8 The Beat: David Seering: The Music’s in His Blood...................Page 11 Business Profile: Playground Music Center...........................Page 16 On Stage: Killer Musical at Pensacola Loblolly Theatre........Page 18 30a TV Show Seeking Favorite Recipes for “Julie and Julia” Movie Premiere.....................................Page 25 Apples of My Eye: Summer Kitchen Cafe............................Page 27 Book Review: A Fantastical Debut Novel.............................Page 35 Beachcomber Goes to the Movies: A Comedian’s Comedy.................................................Page 36

Despite the mostly negative comments of a certain Mr. Huffy Snuffy in the recent issue of The New Yorker, the Kindle—amazon. com’s e-reader—is a neat little device. Gripe all you like about the blah-gray screen and the personality-lacking font and the unavailability of (insert title of favorite book here), Kindle is the most addictive doohickey since the Flip camera. The powers that be bestowed a Kindle 2 on me recently, and I’ve already doubled my reading habits. Much of that has been limited to the free samples of new books, though I did finish Chris Anderson’s Free in the Kindle version after getting halfway through the hardcover. And I read the late, great Donald E. Westlake’s Get Real in its entirety. The price of a new book is considerably lower than its atomic counterpart, and thanks to the built-in wireless, titles can be zapped to my Kindle in a matter of minutes.

Regular Features

Barcomber..........................................................................Page 12 Places to Go, Things to Do .................................................Page 19 Around Town — Sports Bars, Library Events, Beachside Worship Services...........................................Page 23 Casino Entertainment.........................................................Page 23 Restaurant Guide................................................................Page 29 Tide and Sunset Charts........................................................Page 32 Mystery Photo Contest........................................................Page 34 Art & Antiques......................................................................Page 37 Happy Birthday!...................................................................Page 37 Activities & Outdoors...........................................................Page 38

Which also means they can zap stuff right off my Kindle, too. But based on the outrage over the recent removal of a couple George Orwell novels from Kindles, I doubt amazon will make a habit out of this. They’re not that dumb, are they? (Unless it’s the same “people” who determine my recommendations…)

On Our Cover: David Seering

Photographed by Jody Felder [email protected]

STAFF Publisher — Jim Patricelli Editor — Christopher Manson Assistant Editor — Sheila Conner Contributing Writers Johnny C. Alexander, Bruce Collier, Lesha Denega, Lauren Gall, Nicole James, Sherry Londe, Tara Manson Harbor View — Charles Morgan The Roving Rogue — Bill Campbell SALES Sales Manager — Nancy Nacol Pam Preston Website — Bill Garrett

Anyway, I’m enjoying the thing, warts and all, even though it’s likely amazon or Sony or Apple will come up with a superior device that will render the Kindle obsolete. I doubt if e-readers will completely kill the book, just as iPods haven’t totally wiped out vinyl records. I brought my Kindle and iPod (and MacBook and Flip camera) to Rockdale, Texas to visit with the girlfriend’s relations last fortnight. During our road trip, I picked up free publications at every stop in four states and can honestly say that none of them are as indispensable as the one you’re holding (or reading on your Kindle) right now.

The Beachcomber

is published fortnightly by The Beachcomber, Inc. P.O. Box 5707 Destin, FL 32540-5707 Telephone: (850) 650-9940 FAX: (850) 650-5475 Press Releases, Editorial Comments, & General Inquiry to: [email protected] Sales Inquiries: [email protected] © 2009 by The Beachcomber, Inc.

www.thebeachcomber.org

A more recent road trip found us in Orange Beach, Alabama at the Big Fat Amphitheatre (I’m not sure if that’s the official name) for a triple bill of music legends—Willie Nelson, John Mellencamp and Bob Dylan. The three shows in one befits aging musicians who may run out of steam after an hour or so, but Mellencamp knocked me out with his energy. His band was fantastic— an accordion player and an electric violin player, gotta love that. Opening act Nelson was loose and played a somewhat predictable set, although he

threw in some religious songs and a number of Hank classics. And it was a thrill to finally see harmonica great Mickey Raphael and Trigger—Nelson’s beat-up guitar—in person. As for headliner Dylan, he was… well, Dylan. I’d seen him three times previously, and he’s never shown much stage presence. This performance was different, though. He and his solid band kicked off the set with a fiery “Leopard Skin Pill Box Hat,” and Dylan played some dynamite guitar licks. After that, he relegated himself to the keyboard—arthritis, I hear—and occasional harmonica solos. The new songs from Together Through Life were instantly recognizable, but older songs didn’t exactly benefit from the unintelligible lyrics. I usually cheer after the line “Sometimes even the President of the United States has to stand naked” from “It’s Alright, Ma, I’m Only Bleeding”—this time I didn’t even recognize the song. - C.M. FROM THE (E)MAILBAG Hello Beachcomber! I love to read your paper and think that it’s a real stipend for locals as well as a “find” for anyone visiting the area. Keep up the great work! I’m a band parent with the Choctawhatchee High School Style Marchers, and they will be performing in this year’s Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. I also run the fundraiser side of the Band Booster organization, and we have a great concert coming up Aug. 8 that I hope you can publicize. Thanks for helping out the band if it’s not too late, and for providing a great read to all of us here at “the beach.” - Adam Babcock, Fort Walton Beach (Editor’s note: More details about the concert, featuring Rebel Syndicate, can be found in the Places and Things department.) ONLINE MID-FORTNIGHT WINNERS Congratulations to the winners in our online contest, Angela Miller of Santa Rosa Beach and Victoria Sassano-Fitzgerald of Miramar Beach. They each pick up a set of tickets to “In Search of Norman Rockwell’s America” at the Visual Arts Center in Panama City. For your chance to win fabulous prizes, subscribe online at www. thebeachcomber.org. GOOF OF THE FORTNIGHT - OURS Apparently nobody was celebrating a birthday this July 31 (July 23-Aug. 5 Beachcomber).

A ugust 6, 2009 - August 19, 2009

The Beachcomber

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The Beachcomber A ugust 6, 2009 - August 19, 2009

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About Our Cover Artist

Photographer Jody Felder

According to his pbase.com page, Jody Felder—whose photograph of David Seering graces this issue’s cover—was inspired by creative photos he saw in magazines. Amazingly, he didn’t turn professional until this year. Until a few years ago, Felder didn’t even know how to use a camera properly! “I have much work ahead of me and a lot of goals down the road,” says Felder. “But when you feel something… about your craft, it’s more of growing with your passion than it is ‘work.’”

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A ugust 6, 2009 - August 19, 2009

The Beachcomber

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The Beachcomber’s Roving Rogue By Bill Campbell

“I’m the beast’s mother.” Normally an attractive woman doesn’t introduce herself thusly, let alone while acting very proud of the fact. But in this case, Carol Ribando had every reason to shine, as her son Jeremy was not only the beast, but an excellent one at that. Through the epitome of serendipity I’d scored two front-row center tickets to Northwest Florida’s production of Beauty and the Beast. And when my gorgeous date, Hannah Haney, and I took our seats, Carol introduced herself in that very unique fashion. Her son, a professor at NWFSC, was magnificent in his role, as indeed was the whole cast. Brittany Hammock was stunning as the Beauty, Belle. I’ve been to many a production in New York, Washington D.C., and Boston, but none were as flawless and well-acted as this one, one staged by our very own people. Director Dr. Cliff Herron is to be complimented for not only directing such a remarkable production, but for being the leader who keeps everything glued together.

The evening was pure magic, the beast’s mother most engaging, and my date— resplendent in a black gown, heels, and a perpetual smile of awe—was stunning. OK, so she’s 12. She was still the most beautiful lady in the house.

I don’t know about you, but if for some ungodly reason both stairwells erupted in flame—and they’re at the other end of the barge away from the kitchen—I’d take the next best exit and jump in the harbor. How tough is that?

It serves no immediate purpose to laud a production which has closed, save for this. More are on the way, and you’re to be faulted if you don’t attend. Yes, there are Broadway productions coming—as well as Ed Asner portraying FDR—but the locally done offerings are not to be missed. Check out www.mattiekellyartscenter.org for all the info you need.

And, hey! How’d the place get a Certificate of Occupancy in the first place if it was so dammed unsafe?

Judge Keith Brace handed down a decision last week that will be welcomed by those of us who find Destin’s HarborWalk to be an excellent place to enjoy great entertainment, views, and food. The good judge handed down a decision to block a rather hysterical attempt by some of Destin’s not-so-finest to close the popular baby J’s restaurant. Some on the city council as well as the Destin fire marshal and city building official claimed the place was unsafe, that there was only one escape route from the second deck of this floating bar and eatery.

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Call 800-310-6964 when you spot the dude, and win cool stuff if you are the first! Sharp-eyed Beachcomber reader Linda Brewington from Niceville was the first to find The Dude in the our July 23-Aug. 5 edition. He was on page 23 in the Thai Delights ad (as good a place to hide as any). Linda wins tickets to “In Search of Norman Rockwell’s America” at the Visual Arts Center in Panama City.

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The Beachcomber A ugust 6, 2009 - August 19, 2009

Thank you, Judge Brace. I’m quite content taking my chances on the second deck. Besides, the music’s great, as is the view. Captain Dave’s on the Gulf has long been a favorite restaurant and gathering place for locals and Tourist-Americans alike. And it was a fitting place for me to hook up with two friends recently, as one lives sorta across the street. Besides, the place has added a street-level deck upon which to sit, sip, dine and watch the sunset and water. The service and atmosphere is great, and in a month we’ll pretty much have the place to ourselves. Check it out. (I really recommend the new deck.) “How do you like the mashed potatoes?” That’s a question a diner doesn’t get asked, and besides, I didn’t get this streamlined waist by downing a bunch of carbs. But there they were on my plate of ribs—exceptional ribs at that—while lunching at Angler’s on The Boardwalk on Okaloosa Island. The questioner was peripatetic owner Dan Empson, known far and wide as “The Big Ugly.” Dan also runs the tremendously popular Harry T’s in HarborWalk Village and has taken over management of Pat O’Brien’s until Peter Bos and company can figure out what to do with it. It’s flourishing under Dan’s tutelage. Dan’s a most engaging fellow, and one that is best spotted before he arrives where you’re sitting, as he loves to greet you with a bear hug and a handshake that’ll crush walnuts. But you have to love his energy and ability to hire and keep excellent staff. “So what’s up with the mashed potatoes?” I asked in my best journalistic voice. “I bought a new potato mashing machine. Whadda you think of them?”

So eschewing the benefits of my buffed and enviable midsection, I took a bite. “Damn, Dan! They’re great!” That earned me a slap on my back that would kill cattle. But I survived, mostly because it was followed with a comped glass of wine. Anytime, Dan. Anytime. Los Lonely Boys first appeared along the Emerald Coast as a touring act at the worldfamous Hog’s Breath Saloon, home-awayfrom-home to many great music groups, Willie & Lobo being among them. I spent quite a bit of time with them last time they were at “The Breath,” and found them to be some of the nicest young men I’d ever met. They were also incredibly talented. So it was with great pleasure when I read in the last issue of The Beachcomber that they had a gig at the Beau Rivage in Biloxi. I can only wish the best for these guys. They’re special. So is the Riley Center for Performing Arts in – sit down, Thelma – Meridian, Mississippi. I journeyed over there last year for a concert by my favorist (smoke arises from my Spellchecker) group ever, The Four Freshmen. They’ll be back there in October, but here’s just a sampling of the 2009-10 season: B.B. King, Lyle Lovett, Béla Fleck, Los Lobos, Vienna Boys Choir, Keb’ Mo and Cassandra Wilson. There are many other performances as well. Check it all out at www.MSURileyCenter. All shows are in a newly-restored opera house that is simply stunning. (You get a lot for $25 million.) My good friend Sid Rosenbaum’s brother, Alfred, was one of the main givers and fundraisers for this beautiful facility. Meridian is an easy drive, and for sure, the upcoming shows are worthy of your notice. We close with a tribute to all of this summer’s brides by W. Somerset Maugham: “A man marries to have a home, but also because he doesn’t want to be bothered with sex and all that sort of thing.”

Harbor View

By Charles Morgan

There is an old adage that, in life, one of the keys to success is not what you know, it’s whom you know. The implication is that issues of wealth, career advancement, business deals and political influence can be positively affected by knowing the right people in the right places. It may be true that intelligence and hard work are only part of the keys to a successful life and that knowing influential people can play an important role. But there are people you meet in a lifetime who have no bearing on your successes and failures yet still help shape your life. Thirty years ago, I had just finished college. I’ve always been a reader, and my favorite author was Jim Harrison. He wrote novels about my generation, about men and women with big ideas. He was an outdoorsman who fished the Florida Keys and the rivers of Montana, and he hunted upland birds. He was my Hemingway. I had read Wolf, A Good Day to Die, and Farmer. In 1979, he published Legends of the Fall. All of his books were strikingly beautiful because the book covers were paintings by Russell Chatham. I had read about Chatham and knew that he lived in Livingston, Montana. I called information and wrangled an address from the operator for his art gallery. I wrote a short letter about my admiration for his paintings, and mentioned that I ran a wholesale fish market in Destin. I knew that Chatham was a gourmand and that he frequently bartered with people using his artwork for currency. Several days later, the Fed Ex truck

delivered a package to Harbor Docks. It was filled with beautiful landscapes of Montana. There were paintings and lithographs by Russell Chatham. We have been friends ever since. Painters are often judged by the prominence of the collectors of their art. People like Jann Wenner, Tom Brokaw, Mario Batali, Jeff Bridges, Sean Connery, Jimmy Buffett, Robert Redford, Harrison Ford, the late Hunter Thompson, Jack Nicholson, and many others own Russ’s paintings. Russell Chatham is one of the greatest living American artists. And I have more of his paintings than anyone other than Jack Nicholson. I asked Russ why he has stayed in Livingston since 1972. He thought for a minute. “Well, it’s not just because of the beauty of the place, or the fishing” he said. “One reason is that it’s an inexpensive place to live. “Last winter I saw two cowboys coming out of a bar one snowy night. They were arguing, on the verge of a fight. I stepped aside to let them pass, getting out of their way. As they stumbled by, I listened to them. They were arguing about Russian literature—Tolstoy and Dostoevsky. I guess that’s why I like it here.”

Tonight we’re eating at the Harrisons’ home. He’s fixing a Mexican stew, and it will be paired with some kinds of exotic wines. Jim’s fishing the Yellowstone with us tomorrow. Thursday we’re fishing the Madison River with Russ. He’s cooking dinner that night, and his meals are an event unlike any other. My sons and I are heading to California at the end of this week. We are going to walk the John Muir Trail. We’ll hike 146 miles in 12 days through the Sierras and wind up in Tuolumne Meadows in Yosemite Park.

walks alone. He looked up into the sky and said, “And that doesn’t appear to be a good time for a walk.” My boys enjoy these trips to Montana because of the fishing and the scenery and the stories they hear. Eddie and Chatham (who is named for Russ) are talented fly-fishermen and they know these rivers better than I do.

I told him last night that we had penciled him in for the 146-mile walk in California.

My children have known Jim Harrison and Russell Chatham their entire lives. I’ve known them for 30 years. While I don’t think our friendships have had anything to do with business successes, financial gain or any political influences, I have roomfuls of beautiful paintings and extraordinary books. If you had told me when I was 25 years old that one day I would even meet Russell Chatham or Jim Harrison, I would have laughed. Today, I have two incredibly talented friends who happen to be world-class fly-fishermen.

He looked at me with his one good eye and politely mentioned that he generally

And it’s all because of a short letter I wrote 30 years ago.

Jim Harrison writes, and talks, often about walking. He walks his dogs and pays attention to the beautiful place he lives. He’s 72 years old and in good shape.

Jim Harrison barters and likes fresh seafood also. I have a collection of works by him that no one else has. They have both been to Destin during Cobia season and have become friends with many people in our town. Years ago, I bought a place in Livingston. I’m here now with my sons to fly-fish the Yellowstone, Madison and Gallatin rivers.

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A ugust 6, 2009 - August 19, 2009

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The Beachcomber LEFT: The fourth event of the YOLO 2009 Race Series—held last month at the Boathouse at WaterColor— produced numerous winners in both men’s and women’s divisions, as well as this breathtaking photo by Chandler Williams of Modus Photography.

ABOVE LEFT: Reed Waddle at his final Funky Blues Shack gig in Destin. The Beachcomber Music Award winning singer-songwriter is heading to Boston soon, and we—along with so many others—wish him the best. Check out a performance clip of “Amsterdam” at www.youtube.com/beachcomberdestin. Photo by Mark Focus

RIGHT: Harley Van Hyning (right) of www. destinfloridapodcast. com discusses beer, beer and beer with Windell Middlebrooks, a/k/a the Miller Guy at Pompano Joe’s.

ABOVE: Doey Wood, photographic artist Linda Holoway and Artful Things co-owner Candice Holeczko at a recent gallery event. For more information on upcoming events, visit www. artfulthings.net.

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The Beachcomber A ugust 6, 2009 - August 19, 2009

LEFT: Beachcomber favorite Marc Harris performs all month with Tasha Johnson. The new outfit is named Vibeville, and you can catch this duo at Shorty’s in Grayton Beach Fridays starting at 7:30 p.m. and Sundays at 3:30. The full band—appearing at Grayton Beach’s Pandora’s later this month—includes heavyweights Charles Pagano on drums and bassist Gooner McGee. BELOW: The Boston Brothers (Gerry and Al Scala) and mom Teresa invite you to Sauce in the Emerald Coast Centre, Destin’s newest pizza and pasta joint.

Neighborhood

BELOW: Local author Nancy Veldman just published her first novel, The Box of Words, described as “a page turner that will keep you up in the unwholesome hours of the night.” Beachcomber Editor wants to know if it’s available in Kindle format.

RIGHT & BELOW: Catches of the fortnight, courtesy of our friend John at www.forreelphotos.com.

BELOW: Beachcomber Music Award winner Cheryl Jones brings her elegant stylings to Grand Boulevard Sandestin Aug. 12 beginning at 5:30 p.m. The performance is free and open to the public. Photo submitted by Angela Triplett

LEFT: The Walton Area Chamber of Commerce Ambassadors and Fruit Cocktail Cottage Rental Agency cut the ribbon in Seaside. Photo submitted by Brittany Barnes

ABOVE: Kasey Caldwell and musician Zack Rosicka enjoy the sights and sounds of Destin’s Funky Blues Shack. Photo by Mark Focus



A ugust 6, 2009 - August 19, 2009

The Beachcomber

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Saturday, August 1 ................................................. Cadillac Willie Friday, August 7 .............................................The Adam Holt Band Saturday, August 8 .........................................The Adam Holt Band Friday, August 14 ................................................. The Beach Mice Saturday, August 15 ............................................. The Beach Mice Friday, August 21 .................................................The Fiddleworms Saturday, August 22 .............................................The Fiddleworms Friday, August 28 ............................. Todd Simpson and Mojo Saint Saturday, August 29 ......................... Todd Simpson and Mojo Saint S E P TEM B E R 20 09 RO O F TO P M US I C SC H E D U L E

Friday, September 4 .................. Bobby Moore and the Rhythm Aces Saturday, September 5 .............. Bobby Moore and the Rhythm Aces Sunday, September 6 .....................................The Wes Loper Band

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The Beachcomber A ugust 6, 2009 - August 19, 2009

The Beat: Music, Concerts, Recordings, etc.

David Seering: The Music’s in His Blood By Christopher Manson As frequent readers of Bill Campbell’s column know by now, David Seering has found a new home at Commander’s Palace’s On the Rocks Bar in HarborWalk Village. The immensely talented vocalist and pianist performs Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays starting at 8 p.m. Seering is finishing up his 14th season in the area. “I think it’s changed quite a bit,” he says. “It’s not the Destin I remember when I first came here, with a few bars and restaurants. It’s evolved into a tourist destination, but there’s nothing wrong with that.” On Sept. 6, Seering will perform in Grand Park at Sandestin’s Grand Boulevard. “A Musical Farewell to Summer” will feature a big band and a tribute to the band Chicago. After that, Seering heads back to his native Green Bay, Wisconsin for the opening season of his beloved Packers. He serves on the board of directors of the

Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation and does a lot of work with the Children’s Advocacy Center. Seering also plans to volunteer his time when the Alaqua Animal Refuge opens its adoption center at HarborWalk Village. “I think that’s a great organization,” he says. Seering doesn’t really want to talk about his acclaimed Redfish Village Piano Café—long lamented by anyone who was fortunate enough to dine there. A brief statement about the restaurant’s closing appears on his Web site, www.davidseering.com. Unlike most other area performers, Seering hasn’t jumped on the MySpace of Facebook bandwagons yet. “My wife Lori’s on Facebook,” he says. “When I’m online, I play Texas Hold ‘Em. I don’t Twitter. I don’t tweeter. I seldom text.” He started playing piano by ear at age 3. “My parents tried to give me lessons,” he says. “But I didn’t have patience with the teachers. I taught myself how to play and sing.”

own style, heavily influenced by ivorytickling pop singers like Billy Joel and Elton John. “I was always amazed by their technique and their showmanship. They’re so spontaneous.” Seering’s repertoire covers a wide variety. “You have to in this environment,” he says. “There’s times I have to do Kermit the Frog for some kid, and that’s fine. Some people just want me to do Sinatra and Broadway, but I try to be as open as I can.” Lately, Seering has been listening to a lot of contemporary Christian music, as he recently formed the Chapel at Crosspoint, a nondenominational church on CR-393 in Walton County. “(The music) is very fresh and has some great sounds and melodies to it,” he says. He is joined by his wife and Jay Stone on vocals and a “very talented keyboardist” named Don Kupsky for the 10:30 Sunday morning worship services. Continued on page 14

David Seering wows the On Ohe Rocks Bar crowd. Photo by Jody Felder

Over the years, Seering has developed his



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The Beachcomber

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VENUE

The Barcomber (Thursday, August 6 through Wednesday, August 12) THURSDAY, 6TH

Info subject to change. Call ahead for confirmation.

FRIDAY, 7TH

SATURDAY, 8TH

SUNDAY, 9TH

MONDAY, 10TH

TUESDAY, 11TH

WEDNESDAY, 12TH

Mike and the Micros 4 p.m. AJ’s, Destin Harbor, 837-1913 Phar Fletcher 9 p.m.

Mike and the Micros 4 p.m. Phar Fletcher 9 p.m.

Mike and the Micros 4 p.m. Phar Fletcher 9 p.m.

Jones and Company 4 p.m. Phar Fletcher 9 p.m.

Mike and the Micros 4 p.m. Black Eyed Blonde 9 p.m.

Mike and the Micros 4 p.m. Black Eyed Blonde 9 p.m.

Mike and the Micros 4 p.m. Black Eyed Blonde 9 p.m.

Bayou Blues, Niceville, 279-4806

Fat Catz Band

Jam Session 7 p.m.

bud & alley’s, Seaside, 231-5900

Adam Holt Band 8 p.m.

Adam Holt Band 8 p.m.

BEACH MICE

cabana CafÉ, Destin, 424-3574

Chad Hall 9 p.m.

Reed Waddle 8:30 p.m.

Blue Lew 8:30 p.m.

Ike Bartley 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Sunday Jam Session w/ Lew, Nora & Ted

commander’s palace, HarborWalk Village, 337-8555

David Seering 8 p.m.

David Seering 8 p.m.

David Seering 8 p.m.

Jazz Brunch with Bill Garrett and Friends

fokkers sports pub, Fort Walton Beach, Chris Jackson 6-10 p.m. 244-5555

Garry James 6:30-10:30 p.m.

Garry James 7-11 p.m. Karaoke Upstairs 8-midnight

Funky Blues Shack, Destin, 654-3839

Common Thread

Cadillac Willy

Funky Blues Shack, Village of Baytowne Wharf, 424-6650

Good Enough for Good Times Todd Simpson and Mojo Child Todd Simpson and Mojo Child Beer Pong

hog’s breath salon, Destin, 837-5991

Reed Waddle

Jim Couch

juana’s pagodas, Navarre, 939-2130

Willing & Able 7 p.m.

Benjamin Pratt Beyond Reason 9 p.m.-1 a.m. 5:30-8:30 p.m. Benjamin Pratt 4-7 p.m. Beyond Reason 9 p.m.-1 a.m.

Benjamin Pratt 7 p.m.

Greg Pendleton

Greg Pendleton

Sean Dietrich & Jim Ates 6:30 p.m.

Greg Pendleton

Sweet Justice

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Southern Groove

Jacob Newman

Michael Wheeler

Pandora’s steakhouse, Okaloosa Island, 244-8669

FAT CATZ

Andy Durand 6-10 p.m.

JIM COUCH

Cadillac Willy

Blake G.

Jim Couch

Open Mic Night

Common Thread

Open Mic

Hall ‘n Friends

Old Bull, Young Bull

Beachcomber Music Award Winner Reed Waddle

Jim Couch

Blair Colson

pineapple willy’s Pier bar, Panama City Beach, 235-0928

Biscuit Miller

Biscuit Miller

Biscuit Miller

pompano joe’s, Miramar Beach, 837-2224

CJ Peake

Southern Groove

Dean Sadowski

The Red Bar, Grayton Beach, 231-1008

Red Bar Jazz Band 7-10 p.m.

WaCo Ramblers noon-3 p.m. Beachcomber Music Award Jay Liles 5-7 p.m. Jay Liles 5-7 p.m. Winner Dread Clampitt Red Bar Jazz Band 7-11 p.m. Red Bar Jazz Band 7-11 p.m. noon-3 p.m., 7-10 p.m.

Red Bar Jazz Band 7-10 p.m. Red Bar Jazz Band 7-10 p.m. Red Bar Jazz Band 7-10 p.m.

Rum runners, Village Dueling Piano Show of Baytown Wharf, 8 p.m.-2 a.m. 351-1817

Dueling Piano Show 8 p.m.-2 a.m.

Dueling Piano Show 8 p.m.-2 a.m.

Tim O’Shea 9 p.m.-2 a.m.

Tim O’Shea 9 p.m.-2 a.m.

schooner’s, Panama City Beach, 235-3555

WaCo Ramblers

Ocean Street

Mark & Steve Ocean Street

Ocean Street 5-9 p.m.

seagar’s, Sandestin, (850) 622-1500

Ray Hitchell 6-10 p.m.

Ray Hitchell 6-10 p.m.

Ray Hitchell 6-10 p.m.

spinnaker beach club, Panama City Beach, 234-7892

Ugli Stick

Grandy & Steel at the Cantina Maurice Mangum Ugli Stick Ugli Stick

Cantina/Reggae Party with DJ Vladi Ugli Stick

the swamp club, Okaloosa Island, 796-1300

Hillcrest 8 p.m.

Hillcrest 8 p.m.

Hillcrest 8 p.m.

Hillcrest 8 p.m.

tommy bahama’s tropical cafe, Grand Boulevard, 654-1743

Rudy Applewhite 4-9 p.m.

Jonathan Tennis 5-9 p.m.

Jonathan Tennis 5-9 p.m.

Beachcomber Music Award Winner Donnie Sundal

Ray Hitchell 6-10 p.m.

Rudy Applewhite 4-9 p.m.

Wes Heath 9 p.m.-2 a.m.

Dueling Piano Show 9 p.m.-2 a.m.

Acoustix

Acoustix

Ray Hitchell 6-10 p.m.

Ray Hitchell 6-10 p.m.

Note4Note 8 p.m.

Note4Note 8 p.m.

Rudy Applewhite 4-9 p.m.

Jonathan Tennis 5-9 p.m.

Wine - Liquor - Beer Wine & Liquor 6 pack Discount 5% Case Discount 10% (Mix & Match) Hours: 10am-10pm - Mon-Thurs. 10am-10pm - Fri.&Sat. 10am-8pm - Sunday

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Santa Rosa Village - On Hwy 98 Between 393 & 30A 4942 US. Hwy. 98W. - Santa Rosa Beach - Next to Fat Daddy's Pizza Page 12

The Beachcomber A ugust 6, 2009 - August 19, 2009

VENUE

The Barcomber (Thursday, August 13 through Wednesday, August 19)

Info subject to change. Call ahead for confirmation.

THURSDAY, 13TH

FRIDAY, 14TH

SATURDAY, 15TH

SUNDAY, 16TH

MONDAY, 17TH

TUESDAY, 18TH

WEDNESDAY, 19TH

AJ’s, Destin Harbor, 837-1913

Mike and the Micros 4 p.m. 7 Sharp Nine 9 p.m.

Mike and the Micros 4 p.m. 7 Sharp Nine 9 p.m.

Mike and the Micros 4 p.m. 7 Sharp Nine 9 p.m.

Jones and Company 4 p.m. 7 Sharp Nine 9 p.m.

Mike and the Micros 4 p.m. Black Eyed Blonde 9 p.m.

Mike and the Micros 4 p.m. Black Eyed Blonde 9 p.m.

Mike and the Micros 4 p.m. Black Eyed Blonde 9 p.m.

Bayou Blues, Niceville, 279-4806

Jam Session 7 p.m.

Fat Catz Band

Bud and alley’s, Seaside, 231-5900

Beach Mice 8 p.m.

cabana CafÉ, Destin, 424-3574

Beach Mice 8 p.m.

ADAM HOLT

Chad Hall 9 p.m.

Blue Lew 8:30 p.m.

Ike Bartley 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Sunday Jam Session w/ Lew, Nora & Ted Jazz Brunch with Bill Garrett and Friends

commander’s palace, HarborWalk Village, 337-8555

David Seering 8 p.m.

David Seering 8 p.m.

David Seering 8 p.m.

Fokkers sports pub, Fort Walton Beach, 244-6666

Chris Jackson 6-10 p.m.

Garry James 6:30-10:30 p.m.

Garry James 7-11 p.m. Karaoke Upstairs 8-midnight

Funky Blues Shack, Old Bull, Young Bull Destin, 654-3839

The About Last Nights

The About Last Nights

Funky Blues Shack, Zack Rosicka Band Village of Baytowne Wharf, 424-6650

JB Roberts Band

JB Roberts Band

Beer Pong

hog’s breath salon, Destin, 837-5991

Chronic Jester

Chronic Jester

Chronic Jester

juana’s pagodas, Navarre, 939-2130

Bejamin Pratt 7 p.m.

Rowdies 9 p.m.-1 a.m.

Benjamin Pratt 5:30-8:30 p.m. Rowdies 9 p.m.-1 a.m.

Greg Pendleton

Greg Pendleton

Pandora’s steakhouse, Okaloosa Island, 244-8669

PHAR FLETCHER Andy Durand 6-10 p.m.

Open Mic Night

Zack Rosicka Band

Open Mic

Chronic Jester

Common Thread

Jim Couch

Beachcomber Music Award Winner Reed Waddle

Jim Couch

Blair Colson

Benjamin Pratt 4-7 p.m.

Benjamin Pratt 7-10 p.m.

Benjamin Pratt 7-10 p.m.

Willing and Able 7 p.m.

Sean Dietrich & Jim Ates 6:30 p.m.

Greg Pendleton

David Pretlow

Southern Groove

COMMON THREAD

pineapple willy’s, Panama City Beach, 235-0928

Biscuit Miller

Biscuit Miller

Biscuit Miller

pompano joe’s, Miramar Beach, 837-2224

Jacob Newman

Dean Sadowski

David Pretlow

The Red Bar, Grayton Beach, 231-1008

Red Bar Jazz Band 7-10 p.m.

WaCo Ramblers noon-3 p.m. Beachcomber Music Award Jay Liles 5-7 p.m. Jay Liles 5-7 p.m. Winners Dread Clampitt Red Bar Jazz Band 7-11 p.m. Red Bar Jazz Band 7-10 p.m. noon-3 p.m., 7-10 p.m.

Red Bar Jazz Band 7-10 p.m. Red Bar Jazz Band 7-10 p.m. Red Bar Jazz Band 7-10 p.m.

rum Runners, Village of Baytowne Wharf, 351-1817

Dueling Piano Show 9 p.m.-2 a.m.

Dueling Piano Show 8 p.m.-2 a.m.

Dueling Piano Show 8 p.m.-2 a.m.

Tim O’Shea 9 p.m.-2 a.m.

Tim O’Shea 9 p.m.-2 a.m.

Schooners, Panama City Beach, 235-3555

Chronic Jester

Gabby Johnson Band

Gabby Johnson Band Stainless Steel

Gabby Johnson 5-9 p.m.

seagar’s, Sandestin, (850) 622-1500

Ray Hitchell 6-10 p.m.

Ray Hitchell 6-10 p.m.

Ray Hitchell 6-10 p.m.

spinnaker beach club, Panama City Beach, 234-7892

‘80s Nite Costume Party w/ Grandy & Steel at the Cantina Maurice Mangum DJ Mike B from 3 Bad Brothaz Willtown Willtown Willtown

Cantina/Reggae Party with DJ Vladi Willtown

the swamp club, Okaloosa Island, 796-1300

Note4Note 8 p.m.

Note4Note 8 p.m.

Note4Note 8 p.m.

Note4Note 8 p.m.

tommy bahama’s tropical cafe, Grand Boulevard, 654-1743

Rudy Applewhite 4-9 p.m.

Jonathan Tennis 5-9 p.m.

Jonathan Tennis 5-9 p.m.

Blair Colson

Dean Sadowski

Ray Hitchell 6-10 p.m.

Wes Heath 9 p.m.-2 a.m.

TBA

Acoustix

Acoustix

Ray Hitchell 6-10 p.m.

Ray Hitchell 6-10 p.m.

Send your venue’s information for Aug. 20-Sept. 2 to [email protected]

Rudy Applewhite 4-9 p.m.

Aclarion 8 p.m.

Aclarion 8 p.m.

Rudy Applewhite 4-9 p.m.

Jonathan Tennis 5-9 p.m.

9-HOLES WITH CART $22 per person

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Kelly and Billy Pfirrman during the recent celebration of Wanda Green’s life at Destin’s Boathouse. Photo by Pam Preston



The Golf Garden of Destin, Inc. 850-837-7422 12958 US Hwy. 98 W. Miramar Beach (2 miles east of Midbay Bridge) A ugust 6, 2009 - August 19, 2009

Tee Times Daily 7:30am to 9:30pm The Beachcomber

Page 13

The Beat

Cont. from page 11

Beastie Boys Ill Communication (Remastered Edition) Capitol

Seering describes the services as “very upbeat.” He adds: “A lot of new people and tourists are coming in. When we moved from Seaside, we brought the regular congregation with us, too.”

First released in 1994, Ill Communication found the Beastie Boys at the top of their musical game, as well as at the top of the charts. There is no doubt that this band pretty much outcools every other “alternative” rock act, and this newly remastered edition does not disappoint. The inspired trio further tests the limits with even more mixed-up beats, extreme punk and flashy rhymes—a sound most may have thought they mastered on 1992’s Check Your Head. Funky instrumental accompaniments complement party-ready tracks, like classic favorite “Get It Together” and the hardcore rap-rock jam “Sabotage.” The bonus disc—12 tracks of remixes and live cuts—captures every lyric and definitely delivers as a “sure shot.” - Lauren Gall

Seering’s love for Frank Sinatra is apparent to anyone who has heard Seering’s faithful renditions, but his all-time favorite is Ol’ Blue Eyes’ pal Sammy Davis Jr. “He did it all,” says Seering. “Today, I think Michael Buble is outstanding—he brings that big band era back in a fresh way. And I just love Josh Groban.” Among local artists, he singles out Donnie Sundal and Reed Waddle. “I hope to see him make it big,” he says of the latter. He’s also collaborating with producer Roger Harrison (The Chosen) on a pair of film projects. One is a biopic of Louis Prima and Keely Smith, adapted from the play Louis and Keely at the Sahara. The other is Cousins, about the lives of Mickey Gilley, Jimmy Swaggart and Jerry Lee Lewis. Seering also plans to record another CD— this will be his seventh—along with an album of traditional Christmas songs. “People have been taunting me to try out for America’s Got Talent,” says Seering. “They said I could be this country’s Susan Boyle, but I don’t look good in a dress!” But seriously… “My dad used to say being an entertainer is like standing in line for something,” says Seering. “The longer you stay in it, the more likely you are to reach your goal. I’ve stayed in it. When it’s in your blood, it’s in your blood.” BAND OF THE FORTNIGHT Coconut Radio—“America’s Caribbean Jam Band”—continue to wow the Village of Baytowne Wharf crowds Friday, Saturday and Sunday nights starting at 7. They also appear regularly at baby J’s on the Destin Harbor. Sue Kittredge and Steve Reeths have released a CD of original songs you need to purchase from CD Baby or the band’s MySpace page, www.myspace.com/ coconutradioband. Kittredge plays violin, cello, acoustic bass and percussion, while Reeths is skilled at most stringed instruments, too—guitar, ukelele, mandocello, etc. Both are superb singers and songwriters—Kittredge’s instrumental “Nellie’s Lament” is a standout. “We had recently lost a family pet,” says Reeths. “It was written for her.” An expanded version of the duo—the Coconut String Band—includes the Steenos and “Washboard” Jackson. “That’s an occasional thing,” says Reeths. Around the middle of January, he and Kittredge plan to go further south for a Page 14

The Beat’s Record Roundup

Def Leppard Adrenalize: Deluxe Edition Mercury/Universal

Coconut Radio’s Sue Kittredge and Steve Reeths

“mini tour.” They hope to wind up somewhere around Key West. “We met a guy in Fairhope recently who put us in contact with an organization out of south Florida called the ‘margarita mafia,’ musicians who have that beach mentality.” Reeths says he and Kittredge cover a wide variety of music but put an original spin on it. “We do the Kinks tune ‘Come Dancing.’ Sue discovered a sound on her violin that we haven’t heard anyone do—it sounds like a steel drum. It becomes the Kinks calypso.” Reeths credits Niceville High School graduate Bo Duncan (drums) and Kenny Aiken (guitar, hand percussion) with helping to flesh out the duo’s sound. “We’re not trying to be the next Jimmy Buffett,” says Reeths. “We just want to play our music and have fun. It’s all about smiles.” Reeths and Kittredge are planning a new album of original songs. “It will be a theme album, and we’re kind of exploiting the steel drum sound,” he says. “The whole thing is about coming down to this area and becoming so enraptured you have to stay. It’s about discovering this cool place.”

Upcoming Music Releases AUgust 11

Bottle Rockets, Lean Forward Queen Latifah, Persona Raekwon, Only Built 4 Cuban Linx II The Roots, How I Got Over George Strait, Twang

August 18 Lil Wayne, Rebirth Reba McEntire, Keep on Loving You Sister Hazel, Release

The Beachcomber A ugust 6, 2009 - August 19, 2009

Pyromania was the breakthrough, and the masterful Hysteria fulfilled the promise. Adrenalize was merely a first-rate hard rock record that succeeded in spite of one bandmate’s tragic passing and Robert John “Mutt” Lange’s absence from the producer’s chair. David Fricke’s liner notes are thorough, and a second disc includes B-sides and live performances from the era. The band hasn’t made a record this good since, but none of the Leps have died or lost any limbs either. - Christopher Manson

R.E.M. Reckoning: Deluxe Edition I.R.S./Universal

No sophomore slump for these Athens, Georgia heroes. Reckoning was, in fact, my first taste of R.E.M., and I still smile when I think of how “gd your confusion” jumped out of my boom box in an era overrun with pretty pop stars. The bells-and-whistles version is a considerable sonic improvement over earlier CD versions, and a bonus live disc offers no clues as to what the hell any of Michael Stipe’s lyrics are about. - C.M.

Sugar Ray Music for Cougars Pulse

It appears that on this 10th anniversary of 1999, popular bands and musicians from that era are making valiant efforts to impact the modern music scene. Music for Cougars makes it clear that the band is keeping things light and bright, much like their former successful sound (“Fly,” “Every Morning”). Filled with whimsical pop numbers, the new album is custom made for any fan and provides a soundtrack for the summer. “Boardwalk,” the first single, sounds like the kind of bubblegum hit that every tween as well as mom would love. Mark McGrath’s soulful vocal on “Love 101” has just the right touch of pop sweetness to leave you wanting more. You shouldn’t be too quick to dismiss Sugar Ray as a strictly ‘90s radio band. For any pop music lover, this is genuinely bubbly and stakes its claim as lighthearted, musical refreshment. - L. G.

Matthew Sweet and Susanna Hoffs Under the Covers Vol. 2 Shout! Factory

The finest boy-girl duo since Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell takes on the ‘70s with results that nearly usurp their marvelous ‘60s tribute. Sweet is consistently on the mark, but it’s former Bangle Hoffs who really shines on gutsy choices like Derek and the Dominoes’ “Bell Bottom Blues” and Lowell George’s “Willin’.” Elsewhere, Yes finally gets some respect, and selections from the Carly Simon and David Gates songbooks resonate in a way the originals never did. The deluxe version includes 10 additional tracks and is highly recommended. - C.M.

This Song Kills Cancer www.thissongkillscancer.org

Collaborative effort to benefit cancer stricken musician Cathy Cash consists of 20 first-rate folk and alt-country contributions from cult heroes (Todd Snider, Nancy Griffith), and other friends and relations, all spilling over with heart and talent. Do the right thing and get your copy. The government can’t fix health care, but surely you can spare seven bucks for the download. - C.M.

Destin, FL.pdf

Dr. Richard Corley - Dentist Emerald Coast Jewelers & Workbench Sauce - Pizza, Pasta and Salads Enterprise Leasing Radio Shack Ruff & Tuff Electric Vehicles Le Nails Salon & Spa Sai-Kyo Pho Restaurant Bealls Outlet Coastal Home

1

4/14/09

1:17 PM

OfficeMax Cash's Liquors Wigs by Cheyenne General Nutrition Center Eagles' Wings Books and Gifts Dollar Tree Bealls Department Store People's First Bank Jim N' Nicks Bar-B-Que

A ugust 6, 2009 - August 19, 2009

Walmart

The Beachcomber

Page 15

Beachcomber Business Profile

Putting the Play in Playground By Bruce Collier Playground Music Center will celebrate its 50th anniversary in 2011. There should be no lack of live music at the celebration. The Fort Walton Beach store-there’s a branch in Panama City, too—has come a long way from 1961, when founder James Leonard, a school band teacher and director, decided he could fill a musical need in a growing area. Leonard’s son, Tony, is currently the Leonard most often seen at the store, along with his brother, son, and a large staff of some 21 sales, maintenance, and service people, to say nothing of about 25 full or part-time music teachers. Everyone, staff and teachers, is a musician. Many of the teachers are “very accomplished” performers. Some, notably Steve Spayd and Justin Rogers, are area favorites. Back in 1961 James, described by Tony as “a passionate band director,” realized that area students needed a source from which to purchase or rent instruments, to buy supplies, and to get stuff fixed when it broke. James partnered with another area school band director. They, and their spouses, opened and worked Playground Music. The store has been at a few other locations, and once had a branch at the Santa Rosa Mall, but has been in its present location for the longest time. Thanks to the Cold War, which compelled a beefed-up Eglin Air Force Base, and to tourism, the area population has grown.

kind of band and orchestral instrument, along with guitars, pianos, percussion instruments, electronic gear, sheet music and instruction books or DVDs, spare parts, and music-themed gifts. What’s not on the floor of the showroom—and that’s quite a bit—can be ordered online from a multitude of suppliers around the world. It’s a far cry from the 1960s, when dad James dealt by telephone or in person with traveling salespeople. “It was a handshake-and-a-word kind of business then,” says Tony, who started working in the store as a teenager, then went on to the University of Florida to get a degree in music education. James tried to divide his time between his band director duties and the store, but his obligation to his growing family led to his decision to devote his full time to the business. James’ reputation as a band director and teacher served him well and the business flourished. In addition to sales and service, private lessons are available at Playground. Students can take instruction in brass, reed, all stringed and percussion instruments, piano and voice. There are 12

practice rooms, and a recital hall in the back that accommodates 100 people. Popular special programs include the School of Rock, music Boot Camp, the Emerald Coast Community Band (open to all adults, at any level of musical skill), and the L.I.N.K.S. program, which just finished its first year at Playground. L.I.N.K.S.—Lonely Instruments for Needy Kids Scholarship—puts musical instruments in the hands of young students who would like to play an instrument, but whose families cannot afford to rent or buy one. Playground collects used instruments from donors, cleans

Tony says the decision to name the store Playground came from a trend at the time, that of marketing this part of the Florida Panhandle as “the playground.” He says they weren’t alone—there were any number of stores and businesses incorporating the name—and that it can still be an indicator of when an area business was started. The Fort Walton Beach store is the largest and most comprehensively stocked; the Panama City store focuses primarily on band instruments. In Fort Walton, customers can purchase pretty much any Page 16

Tony Leonard stands among the instruments for sale or rent at Playground Music Center.

The Beachcomber A ugust 6, 2009 - August 19, 2009

and puts them in playable condition, and places them with a deserving student. The store’s Web site lists what they are looking for, and they appear to be looking for everything except pianos and home organs. The cleaning and refurbishing is done onsite in Playground’s repair shop. The L.I.N.K.S. selection process begins when a school band director or school administrator submits a scholarship application form to L.I.N.K.S. (students and parents cannot apply themselves). Financial information—which comes from the school administrators—determines eligibility, as well as the band director’s assessment of the student as an apt candidate for the program. Playground is always in need of a few instruments, and stores them in the vast back room until assigned to new players. The forms can be viewed online at www. playground-music.biz, and information on donating or otherwise participating can be found online or by calling 800578-4641. Playground Music Center is located at 99 Eglin Parkway NE, Suite 1B, Fort Walton Beach. The telephone number is (850) 243-2514. SunQuest Cruises is also getting into the L.I.N.K.S. act with its Rhythm and Hues Smooth Jazz Cruise, on Sunday, August 30, from 3 to 5 p.m. on the Solaris. For $55, cruisers get food and music from the Jazzmen, the artwork of Sidney Carter, and an opportunity to support L.I.N.K.S. by donating instruments. For details on the cruise, call (850) 650-2519, or visit www.sunquest.cruises.com.

DESTIN

SANDESTIN

707 Harbor Blvd.

Village of Baytowne

654-2764

424-6650

DESTIN Thur 8/6

FrI 8/7 Cadillac Willy 9:30pm

Common Thread 9:30pm

Thur 8/13 old Bull young Bull 9:30pm

Tues 8/11

saT 8/8

FrI 8/14

Wed 8/12

open Mic Night

Cadillac Willy 9:30pm

saT 8/15

Tues 8/18

The about Last Nights 9:30pm

Common Thread 9:30pm

Wed 8/19 Zack rosicka Band 9:30pm

open Mic Night

The about Last Nights 9:30pm

SANDESTIN Thur 8/6

Good enough 9:30pm

FrI & saT 8/7-8

Todd simpson 9:30pm

Thur 8/13 FrI & saT 8/14-15 Zack rosicka Band 9:30pm

JB roberts 9:30pm

suN 8/9

MoN 8/10

Beer Pong 9:30pm

open Mic Night

suN 8/16

MoN 8/17

Beer Pong 9:30pm

open Mic Night

Tues 8/11

Wed 8/12

hall N Friends 9:30pm

old Bull young Bull 9:30pm

Tues 8/18

Wed 8/19

Chronic Jester 9:30pm Common Thread 9:30pm

SEASON DRINK SPECIALS suNdays

MoN-FrI happy hour 5-7 pm $2 domestic longnecks • $3 Drafts • $3 Wells • $5 Premiums FrI MoN Tues Wed Thurs

early Music 7-ll “Monday Madness” $3 drafts $4 salty doggs $5 Bloody Mary’s $5 Mai Tai’s

drink specials 10 pm - 2 am $2 Bud It draft $2 Miller It draft $3 shooters $4 wells

s.I.N. (service

Industry Night) $2 draft $3 shooters $4 wells $5 jager shots $5 crown

“Ladies Night”

$3 wells, wine & beer $3 shooters • $5 foo foo’s



“Thirsty Thursdays”

$3 drafts $4 Margaritas $4 screwdrivers $4 Bourbons

“Funky Fridays” $3 Purple haze draft $5 Funk Juice Power hour 12 am - l am includes $2 draft $3 shooters $4 wells $5 Jager shots

A ugust 6, 2009 - August 19, 2009

saT

“soulful saturdays” $3 Purple haze draft $5 Funk Juice Power hour 12 am - l am includes $2 draft $3 shooters $4 wells $5 Jager shots

The Beachcomber

Page 17

On Stage

Killer Musical at Pensacola’s Loblolly Theatre By Sherry Londe Any performance group named for a rapid growing indigenous pine tree demands a first-hand look. Preferring local talent, original scripts, and a developing homegrown audience, one can see that the Loblolly Theatre is all about planting deep roots in the community. Just before the houselights go down, writer and cofounder Yolanda Reed meets and greets, tells a story, then asks if anyone needs a blanket or Altoid. Now that’s southern comfort. The Sisters of Darjean Hooten, the company’s current play, begins with the summons of five women to a place of interrogation. Not knowing of the others’ existence before hand, the characters learn they are related by their mutual father and realize they share a half-sister, Darjean Hooten. Recently deceased—perhaps under shady circumstances—all sisters become suspects in Darjean’s death.

Writer-director Reed guides and directs with a firm yet open hand. Her plays are first cast then developed around individual strengths. Each scene is lightly sketched allowing the actors to fill in and discover authentic character connections. In Darjean, the ensemble creates a mesh of dialogue layered with operatic recitative, quick-paced chatter and intimate soliloquies. The rhythms, relationships and physical pacing crisscross so we too are pulled into the story’s fabric. The cacophony and minor tones heard in the original music provide shades of gray and uncertainty as we shift guilt from one sister to the other. Meg Peltier, Taylor Morton, Whitney Gilmore, Allison Winschief and Jackie Robinson play the sisters, and composer/ co-founder Patricia Simmons is the mysterious detective/interrogator. Each performer’s approach is honest, consistent and delivers punch. Throughout the play we hear sound paintings that roll into

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The Loblolly Theatre offers a unique opportunity to view innovative and original work in an intimate and casual setting. Housed in a historic building in Pensacola—the old Sacred Heart Hospital built in 1915—the theater fosters new talent, cultivates audiences, and encourages everyone to stretch their expectations. Performances continue through August 15. Call (850) 439-3010 or visit www.loblollytheatre.com.

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As the plot unfolds, we realize there is a common sinister death wish towards Darjean from each of the women. In true sisterly style, they challenge, question and change their minds-often. In life, Darjean Hooten was a prankster helping to choose unflattering and rhyming names for each of the sisters. In death, her mischievous

ways continue and give a shadowy twist to the story’s ending.

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song. These are especially enhanced by the stronger voices of Morton, Gilmore and Winschief. A personal favorite, “A Penchant for Poison,” allows Morton’s clear soprano to shine.

The Beachcomber A ugust 6, 2009 - August 19, 2009

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Places to Go, Things to Do All information is subject to change. Call for up-to-the-minute details. Deadline for August 20 issue Places and Things submissions is noon Friday, August 14. Email [email protected].

ART

Digital Artist Brandon Pence at Full Circle Art Gallery, Fort Walton Beach. Pence, a 24-year-old self-taught digital artist, has attracted a niche following for his graphically enhanced photographic narratives. His eclectic, passionate tones reflect musical inspirations like David Bowie, Johnny Rotten and Sascha Konietzko. For more information, call (850) 225-6290 or visit www.brandonpence.com. “My Monet” Acrylic Art Classes at Beverly McNeil Gallery, Destin. Classes are Tuesdays from 3 to 5 p.m. and Thursdays, 6-8 p.m. Local professional artists guide students through the creative process. Cost is $35 per person; all materials are provided. Private parties or groups of 10 or more available. To register, call (850) 654-4322. Aug. 6. Art Talk with Joshua Mann Pallet at Ogden Museum of Southern Art, WaterColor, 4-7 p.m. www.culturalartsassociation.com. Aug. 7. First Friday ArtWalk at Central Square and Ruskin Place, Seaside, 5-8 p.m. Enjoy live music, view beautiful works of art, and enjoy artist demonstrations. Free. www.seasidefl.com. Through Aug. 9. “In Search of Norman Rockwell’s America” at the Visual Arts Center of Northwest Florida, Panama City. This groundbreaking exhibition pairs the work of American icon Rockwell with images by award-winning photojournalist Kevin Rivoli. Features black and white photographs alongside original Rockwell art, including the never-before-published painting The Golfer. www.vac.org.cn.

Aug. 15 Artists at Gulf Place Open Hut Party and Art Show,

10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Meet the artists, and enjoy live music by Jackie and Olivia from 3 to 6, along with food and beverages from Miss Lucille’s Beach Bar. For more information, call (850) 974-1452.

ciation, Alys Beach, Fridays and Saturdays from noon to 5 p.m. Tickets are $20 for adults, $10 for children under 13. Purchase tickets at the door, or visit www.culturalartsassociation.com/designershowhouse. Through Aug. 29. Button Up! Vintage Buttons and Clothing at Heritage Museum of Northwest Florida, Valparaiso. The exhibit features vintage buttons, clothing and accessories from the 14th through the 20th century. Admission is $2, free for museum members and children under 4. Museum hours are Tuesday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Call (850) 678-2615 or visit www.heritage-museum.org.

AUDITIONS

Aug. 8. Choral Society of Pensacola Auditions for New Singers at Pensacola Junior College Ashmore Fine Arts Building, Room 801, 10 a.m. to noon. Choral Society artistic direcor Xiaolun Chen will conduct the auditions, which will take place in a relaxed and non-threatening atmosphere. Call (850) 484-1810 for more information, or email [email protected].

CALL FOR VENDORS

Saints Markella and Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church’s 18th Annual Greek Festival to be held Sept. 4-6 at Emerald Coast Conference Center. Seeking vendors and commercial businesses to participate. For applications and additional information, call (850) 244-0822. Covenant Hospice Seeks Big Ticket Items for Garage Sale and Auction to be held in November at the Northwest Florida Fairgrounds. The organization seeks donations of automobiles, boats and RVs, along with good condition furniture. All donations are tax deductible. Call Shelly Canales at (850) 729-1800. Northwest Florida Fairgrounds Invites Local Businesses and Organizations to Sign Up for 2009 Fair scheduled for Nov. 3-8. Boost your own business while providing quality entertainment and memories for the community. This year’s fair promises many exciting new attractions. Call (850) 862-0211 or email [email protected]. 2010 Seabreeze Jazz Festival will take place at Pier Park in Panama City Beach, April 16-18. There are only 60 spaces available. This year ’s festival attracted more than 16,000 jazz fans. Market is open to commercial, fine arts and crafts and wholesale food vendors. For more information visit www.hilltopproductionsinc.com or call (850) 951-2148.

CALL TO ARTISTS Through Aug. 15. Designer Showhouse for the Arts to Benefit Cultural Arts Asso-

The Art Gallery at Navarre Healing Arts is seeking a variety of artwork to show and sell, including paintings, photos, multimedia pieces, collage, pottery, sculpture and



more. Contact Connie Jones at (850) 9397964 or email [email protected].

bridge, Jazzercise, oil painting, and more. Call (850) 654-5184.

Destin Festival of the Arts to be presented Oct. 24-25 at Henderson Beach State Park seeks “adult collaborative artists.” Artwork should be of an artistic caliber associated with a juried fine art show. Judges will award cash prizes to artists in four categories. Competition is open to first 20 applicants; entry fee is $35. Deadline is Sept. 25. For application, contact Deb Nissley at the Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation, (850) 650-2226.

Artful Things in Niceville Offers Adult Classes in watercolor, oil, acrylic and drawing. Call (850) 729-2600 or visit www. artfulthings.net.

Fourth Annual Destin Area Summer Photo Contest hosted by Destin Area Chamber of Commerce through Sept. 4. The contest is an exciting way to promote the beautiful city of Destin through locals’ and tourists’ experiences. Categories include family, beach and harbor photos, and the contest is open to all amateur photographers. Winners will receive a Destin prize package and publication in the chamber’s 2010 membership directory. For contest rules and submission guidelines, visit www.destinchamber.com.

Aug. 10. Sandcastle Lessons at the Village of Baytowne Wharf, 7 to 9 p.m. Watch as the Sand Odyssey team carves and creates sand masterpieces, from castles to sea creatures. Free and open to the public. www.sandestin.com.

CALL TO (YOUNG) MUSICIANS

Kitchenique Cooking Classes. Now located at 26150 Emerald Coast Parkway, Destin. Prices vary for each class. Visit www. kitchenique.com or call (850) 837-0432. - Aug. 10. Thai One On II with Chef Dan Pettis, 6-8 p.m. - Aug. 17. Bistro Fare with Chef Dan Pettis, 6-8 p.m. - Aug. 20. Summer by the Beach with Phillip McDonald, 6-8 p.m. Chef Phillip will prepare summertime favorites, including chilled panhandle marinated crab claws with sauce remoulade.

Northwest Florida Symphony Orchestra 23rd Annual Concerto Competition sponsored by the NFSO Guild and the Mattie Kelly Fine and Performing Arts Center. Open to students of orchestral instruments, keyboard and voice who are age 23 or younger. Students will compete for up to $1,500 in prize money and the opportunity to perform with the NFSO live in concert. Applications an contest rules are available at www.nfsymphony.org or the Fine Arts Office at NWF State College in Niceville. For more information, call (850) 7295382. Completed applications must be postmarked by Sept. 15 to be considered.

CALL TO SONGWRITERS

30-A Songwriters Festival Produced by the Cultural Arts Association of Walton County. This is a call for artist submissions for the festival to take place Jan. 15-17, 2010. The deadline for songwriters to submit work is Aug. 18. For details, visit www.30ASongwritersFestival.com or call (850) 622-5970.

CAST AND CREW CALL

Aug. 22. Register with the Emerald Coast Film Commission at Okaloosa Applied Technology Center, Lewis Turner Blvd. in Fort Walton Beach, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Learn about all the opportunities Okaloosa County has to offer. Bring a headshot and resume. Call Linda Sargeant at (850) 6417644 for more information.

CLASSES

Adult Programs at Destin Community Center include aerobics, basketball, Brazilian martial arts, chair yoga, duplicate

Arts and Design Society in Fort Walton Beach offers workshops in acrylics, photography, life drawing, and pottery, as well as open studio time to paint with others. Call (850) 244-1271 or visit www.artsdesignsociety.com.

COMEDY

Act4Murder Comedic Mysteries for Dinner Theater. Plenty of laughs and a delicious three-course meal. For upcoming show details, visit www.act4murder.com.

COOKING

Aug. 11. All About Sushi at Fort Walton Beach Library, 6 p.m. Sign-up required by Aug. 7; call (850) 833-9590. The free program is geared toward teens age 13-19.

EDUCATIONAL

Aug. 6. Bottlenose Dolphin Ecology, Strandings, and Rescue Response in the Choctawhatchee Bay Estuary with Steve Shippee, who will discuss the problem of dolphin interaction with recreational fishing. More info at www.choctawhatcheeaudubon.org. Aug. 9. “Vacuum Energy Conversion Machines: History of Development and Description of Types” with John Shelburne at Gulf Breeze Recreation Center, 2:305:30 p.m. Presented by Unlimited Horizons of the Emerald Coast, Inc. www.unlimitedhorizons.org. Through Aug. 11. Florida Master Naturalist Coastal Module. The Coastal Module of the Master Naturalist class will be offered

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Places to Go, Things to Do continued Tuesdays. Learn about coastal and marine ecosystems and the wildlife that occupy those areas throughout Florida. Instruction is also provided in the skill of interpretation and environmental ethics.  This class provides 40 hours of class instruction, videos, and field trips. Field trips will include Florida’s Gulfarium, seining around Destin harbor and kayaking on a Coastal Dune Lake. Register at http://www.masternaturalist.ifas.ufl.edu/. Any questions, contact Brooke Saari at [email protected] or call (850) 689-5850.

FILM

Through Aug. 11. “Seminole Wars: The Fight for Florida” Exhibit at Indian Temple Mound Museum’s Lazarus Education Center. This is an interactive exhibit that allows visitors to fill a military supply wagon, try on army uniforms and feel the 30-pound weight of a soldier’s backpack. Visitors will also experience the war through the eyes of two soldiers. Exhibit included in regular museum admission. $5 plus tax for adults, $4.50 plus tax for seniors 55 and older and active military, and $3 plus tax for children 4-17. Contact Mike Thomin at (850) 8339595.

Thursdays. Sunset Cinema at the Village of Baytowne Wharf, 8 p.m. www.baytownewharf.com. - Aug. 6. The Ant Bully. - Aug. 13. Kit Kittredge: An American Girl.

Through Aug. 16. The American Presidential Experience at Emerald Coast Conference Center, Okaloosa Island, open daily at 10 a.m. with last entry at 6:30 p.m. Learn about the presidency from Washington to Obama, have your picture taken with the famous Resolute desk used by presidents since 1880, enjoy a full-scale reproduction of the Oval Office, and more. Admission is $12 for adults, $9 for students, $7 for children ages 6-12 and free for children ages 5 and under. Call (850) 609-3800 or visit www.presidentialexperience.com.

EVENTS

Saturdays. Seaside Farmers Market, 8 a.m. to noon. Find local specialties including fresh produce and baked goods. Special cooking demos. In the Seaside Amphitheater. www.seasidefl.com.

Aug. 13 St. Andrew’s by the Sea Episcopal Church Luncheon & Fashion Show,

beings at 11 a.m. with a social hour and silent auction. Lunch and fashion show will follow. Proceeds go to support the church’s ministries, including their work for the homeless. Tickets are $30. For more information, call (850) 650-2737.

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Wednesdays. Beat the Heat with Dog Days Movies at Redfish Village, 2 p.m. in the cool and comfortable residents’ home theater on the second floor. Films are chosen from “America’s 100 Most Significant Movies” list and include a variety of genres. Christine Burroughs will introduce the films, and audience participation will follow the screenings. Popcorn and beverages for sale. Seating is limited—call (850) 622-5970 for reservations. www.culturalartsassociation.com.

Fridays. Central Square Cinema at Seaside Amphitheater, 8 p.m. Grab your blankets and enjoy blockbusters and classics alike. www.seasidefl.com. - Aug. 7. The Truman Show. Peter Weir’s reality TV satire comes full circle. - Aug. 14. The Final Season. Aug. 8. Movie Night at Uptown Station, Fort Walton Beach. Enjoy Meryl Streep in the ABBA-inspired musical Mamma Mia! Bring lawn chairs and blankets and sit in the grass at Central Park—feel free to sing along. No pets please. You can also sit in your car and tune in to the soundtrack on 106.9 FM. Movie starts at 8 p.m. Toy Magic will run a free kids’ craft session from 6 to 8. www.uptownstation.com.

FISHING

Aug. 12-16. Grand Lagoon National Saltwater Tournament in Panama City. Eight tournaments in one. Anglers in six divisions including Big Game, Catch and Release, Offshore, Inshore, Flats and Party Boat will fish for blue marlin, swordfish, red snapper and more. Also—a special junior anglers’ contest and a dive division. Call (850) 522-0955.

FUNDRAISERS/BENEFITS

Thursdays. Yappy Hour at Tijuana Flats, Fort Walton Beach, 6-10 p.m. to benefit Panhandle Animal Welfare Services (PAWS). Biscuits and water provided for dogs. Representatives from PAWS will bring adorable, adoptable dogs for guests to meet and hopefully add to their families. Call (850) 301-0003 or visit www.tijuanaflats.com. Through Aug. 7. United Way of Okaloosa and Walton Counties’ “Cram the Van” at Santa Rosa Mall, Fort Walton Beach. Donate new school supplies at the mall’s main office. Call (850) 243-0315 for more details. On Aug. 8 from 10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. the United Way Van will be open in the mall’s center court for a public “cram,” along with fun family activities and entertainment. Supplies needed include new backpacks, #2 pencils, colored pencils, large pink erasers, washable magic mark-

The Beachcomber A ugust 6, 2009 - August 19, 2009

ers, highlighters, crayons, wide-ruled and college-ruled notebook paper, etc. www. united.way.org. Aug. 8. Act4Murder FUNdraiser for Air Force Enlisted Village, Shalimar. The comedy troupe performs their hilarious backstage musical Knock ‘em Dead with a delicious three-course meal. This “dinner to die for” will benefit surviving spouses of retired enlisted Air Force members. Social and cash bar at 5:30 p.m., followed by show and dinner at 7. Purchase tickets by calling (850) 651-3766. Show details at www.act4murder.com. Aug. 8. Choctawhatchee Style Marchers Present “Marching to Macy’s” at Joe Etheridge Stadium, Fort Walton Beach, 8 p.m. Gates and concession open at 6. Featuring BCR recording artists Rebel Syndicate. The Choctawhatchee Style Marchers are one of the few high school bands invited to perform at this fall’s Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York City, and proceeds from the concert will help defray travel expenses. Tickets to the concert are $10 in advance, $13 day of show. Visit www.myspace.com/rebelsyndicate or email [email protected]. Aug. 8. Fashion 101: Live Model Showcase at Silver Sands Factory Stores, Miramar Beach, 1-6 p.m. Area high school students will model outfits and 10 stores while raising money for their organizations and schools. For more information, call (850) 654-9771 or visit www.silversandsoutlet.com. Aug. 10. Benefit for Jason Thompson at Blue Point Fish Club, Destin Commons, 7-11 p.m. Thompson, a 28-year-old Walton County resident, was diagnosed two months ago with a rare and aggressive form of cancer. He has no insurance and is currently at the Mayo Clinic in Jacksonville. The charity event features entertainment by Ron Adams, along with auctions and raffles. A $5 donation at the door will get patrons a wristband for drink discounts. www.kickingitforjason.com. Aug. 20. Purses with a Purpose to Benefit Shelter House and Ronald McDonald House at Silver Sands Factory Stores between Nike and Restoration Hardware Clearance Center, 5:30-8:30 p.m. The evening will include new and gently used designer purses with appetizers donated by Carrabba’s Italian Grill. Admission to the event is free. Call (850) 678-7243 or (850) 797-3885.

JOB FAIRS

Aug. 20. Whiting Field Job Fair at Sikes Hall in Milton, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. More than 50 employers are scheduled to attend. Open to the public; free admission. Call (850) 623-7177 for more information.

KIDS

Abrakadoodle Art Classes. Various locations. Call (850) 424-5058 or visit www. abrakadoodle.com.

Adventures in History at Heritage Museum of Northwest Florida,

Valparaiso. Call (850) 678-2615 or visit www.heritage-museum.org for more information. For grades 1-5. - Aug. 13. Toys and Games, 9 a.m. to noon. Discover how toys and games were used to entertain children during wartime, the Great Depression and other historical periods. Cost is $15 for members, $20 for non-members. - Aug. 14. A Soldier’s Life, 9 a.m. to noon. Join the ranks as you uncover the lives of Roman legionnaires, Viking warriors, WWII fighter pilots and others. $15 for members, $20 for nonmembers. - Aug. 14. Archaeology: Dig It!, 1-3 p.m. A hands-on excavation with the good folks from the Florida Public Archaeology Network. $15 for members, $20 for non-members. - Aug. 15. Girls of America, 9 a.m. to noon. A journey back in time with young American women through various eras, including colonial times and the Civil War. Try your hand at quilting and butter churning. $15 for members, $30 for non-members.

Tuesdays. Family Night at Santa Rosa Mall, Fort Walton Beach. Free carousel rides from 5 to 9 p.m. and special offers from Chick-Fil-A, Dairy Queen and Classic Cookie. www.santarosamall.com. Weekdays. Stories by the Sea, Seaside, 4 p.m. A story time the entire family will enjoy through Aug. 14. Free. www.seasiderep.org. Aug. 11. “Go, Dog. Go!” at Watercolor Marina Park Amphitheatre. Adapted by Allison Gregory and Steven Dietz from P.D. Eastman’s enduring children’s book. Free. Presented by Seaside Repertory Theatre. www.seadiserep.org.

LIBRARY EVENTS

Fridays. Friends of Destin Library, 10 a.m., Destin Library. The Friends are a nonprofit group interested in promoting the services and needs of the public library. Membership is $10 per year. Call (850) 837-8572.

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Places to Go, Things to Do continued MEETINGS

Shelter House Domestic Violence Victims’ Support Groups. All information discussed is confidential; no appointment necessary. Childcare is provided, and refreshments are served. Call (850) 243-1201 or visit www.shelterhousenwfl.org. - Tuesdays, Fort Walton Beach, 10:30 a.m. to noon and 6-8 p.m. - Thursdays, Crestview, 10:30 a.m. to noon. - Thursdays, DeFuniak Springs, 1-2:30 p.m. Aug. 13. Emerald Coast Parrothead Club at Fudpucker’s, Destin, 5:30 p.m. Enjoy live music and specials on drinks and selected food items. Information at www.ecparrotheadclub.org.

MUSIC

Wednesday Night Concert Series at the Village of Baytowne Wharf, Sandestin, 7-9 p.m. Free and open to the public, weather permitting. Enjoy new talent from a variety of genres this month. www.sandestin.com. - Aug. 12. Ben Robinson Band. As seen on The Late Show with David Letterman. - Aug. 19. Déjà vu. With a playlist of over 200 songs, the group has something for everyone. Wednesdays. Music in Grand Park, Grand Boulevard at Sandestin, 5:30-8:30 p.m. Free and open to the public. Bring blankets and

chairs, and enjoy. www.grandboulevard.com - Aug. 12. Beachcomber Music Award Winner Cheryl Jones. - Aug. 19. Sean Dietrich Trio. Thursdays. Navarre Park Summer Concert Series. Through Sept. 3, enjoy free concerts at the foot of the Navarre Bridge. Bring beach blankets and lawn chairs for an evening of free family entertainment, 6-8 p.m. Visit www.navarrechamber.com or call (850) 939-3267. Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays. Coconut Radio at the Village of Baytowne Wharf, 7-9 p.m. Dance in the streets with the Village’s house band. See the article in this issue’s The Beat. Free and open to the public. www.sandestin.com. Saturdays. Rock the Docks at HarborWalk Village, 7-9 p.m. Register to win tickets for a Bud Light Party Cruise and a $99 HarborWalk Village gift card. www.harborwalkvillage.com. Sundays. Summer Sundays at the Gregory Street Assembly Hall, Pensacola. Enjoy jazz brunch ($15) from 10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. presented by Sally’s Island Catering and featuring New Orleans jazz. Dance music at 6 p.m. with the Continental Swing Orchestra—cost is $10, including light meal. (850) 607-8633.

Aug. 6. RadioLive! with Margie Perez, Ben Bedford and Smithfield Fair at the Museum of Commerce in historic Pensacola, 6 p.m. Presented free to the public by WUWF Public Media. Please bring a nonperishable food item for the local Manna Food Pantries. Businesses or individuals interested in contributing to the continuation of RadioLive! for the 2009-10 season can contact Trish Allison at (850) 473-7433 or email [email protected]. www.wuwf.org.

Aug. 8 Los Divos Extravaganza Fundraiser for Jazz Society of Pensacola

in Phineas Phogg’s Room, Seville Quarter, downtown Pensacola, 6-9 p.m. Vocalists David Washington, Jim Vail and David Suhor will perform, accompanied by pianist David Shelander’s combo and Joe Occhipinti’s Continental Jazz Orchestra. Special guest will be New York-based flutist/ saxophonist Chip Shelton (pictured). Proceeds will go toward the 27 th Annual Pensacola JazzFest to be held April 10-11. Tickets to the fundraiser are $20 in advance or $25 at the door. Advance tickets are available at the Jazz Society, Seville Quarter, Dollarhide’s Music and Sound, and Reynalds Music House. Call (850) 433-8382 or visit www.jazzpensacola. com.

Aug. 12. Seaside Summer Concert Series, 7-9 p.m. Local favorites Green Hit close out the popular (and free) series. Presented by the Merchants of Seaside, 30A Radio and Barefoot BBQ. www.seasidefl.com.

Seaside Gallery 124 Quincy Circle Open Daily 10am-6pm

231-2535

Order Online cararoyartworks.com Page 22

The Beachcomber A ugust 6, 2009 - August 19, 2009

Aug. 14. Sons of William and Joey Peters at Marina Park Amphitheater, sponsored by the WaterColor Community Association and the WaterColor Inn and Resort. Free and open to the public. Chairs and coolers welcome; please, no pets or glass. Gates open at 6 p.m., with opening act taking the stage at 6:30 followed by the headliner from 8 to 10 p.m. www.monarkeents.com. Aug. 22. A Night of Jazz with KEM and Michael Ward at Emerald Coast Conference Center, 7:30 p.m. All tickets are general admission; $40 in advance and $50 at the door. www.ticketmaster.com.

OUTDOORS

Adventure Club Activities for August. - Aug. 6. Bike Ride and Bocce Ball in Fort Walton Beach, 4:30 p.m. Call Bruce Blackwelder at (850) 301-9452 or Pat Downey at (850) 974-9591. - Aug. 8. Bike Ride in Niceville, 8:30 a.m. Call Bruce Blackwelder at (850) 301-9452 or Pat Downey at (850) 974-9591. - Aug. 13. Bike Ride in Niceville’s Bluewater Bay Resort, 4 p.m. Call Jim and Maria Bayes at (850) 897-6756. - Aug. 15. Bike Ride and Bocce Ball in Pensacola, 4 p.m. Call Clarice Hebinck at (850) 581-4591. - Aug. 18. Bike Ride on Pensacola Beach Plus Free Bands on the Beach Concert, 4:30 p.m. Call Clarice Hebinck at (850) 581-4591. - Aug. 20. Bike Ride in Sandestin, 8:30 a.m. Call Chuck and Carol Dujsik at (850) 269-0556. Yolo Board Stand-up Paddleboard Rentals, lessons and classes. A wonderful way to experience the water. Call (850) 622-5760 or visit www.yoloboard.com. Aug. 8. Choctawhatchee Audubon Society Bird Walk at Fort Walton Beach Spray Fields. Meet at Coach-n-Four restaurant on Lewis Turner Blvd., 7:30 a.m. Call Don Ware at (850) 862-6582 for details.

THEATER

Through Aug. 10. Seaside REP’s “A Stone That Sings” Mondays in the amphitheater, 7:30 p.m. Set in a fantastical world of dragons, monsters, magic and mystery, Stone lets the audience make choices to determine the paths of the characters and the plot. Similar to the popular Choose Your Own Adventure books, this is the ultimate in audience participation. Free. www.seasiderep.org. Aug. 14-16 and 21-23. Stage Crafters Community Theatre Presents George Axelrod’s “The Seven Year Itch.” Friday and Saturday night shows at 7:30 p.m. Sunday matinees at 2 p.m. The midlife crisis comedy stars Tom Hood, Chelsea Sorenson, John Hunter, Mary Balint, Jenna Dunn, Birgitta Dewey, Dana Schack and Stage Crafters veteran Don Hood. Tickets available at P.S. Gifts, Fort Walton Beach; Bayou Books, Niceville; Connect with Flowers, Shalimar; Dowd Title Group LLC, Destin; and all Century 21 locations. Call (850) 685-1332. Through Aug. 15. Loblolly Theatre Company’s “The Sisters of Darjean Hooten,” Pensacola, Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m., Sunday matinees at 3. Described as a “killer musical,” the play focuses on the sisters of the late Ms. Hooten, all of whom have different mothers and have never met one another. Reviewed in this issue. Cast includes Whitney Gilmore, Taylor Morton, Meg Peltier, Jackie Robinson, Patricia Simmons and Allison Winschief. Admission is $9. Call (850) 439-3010 for reservations and additional information. www.loblollytheatre.com.

Around Town SPORTS BARS Anglers Beachside Grill See virtually all the games that are played anywhere through the magic of satellites. Complete college sports coverage, plus the NFL, NBA, Major League Baseball, and all the rest. 1030 Hwy 98W, Okaloosa Island, 796‑0260. Beef‘O’Brady’s family sports pub (2 locations) A range of wings, sandwiches, wraps, soups and salads served in a traditional, but family‑friendly, sports bar atmosphere with lots of TV choices and a kids game room. Excellent chicken wings, hot deli sandwiches, fresh salads, and great kids menu. Beer and wine. $4‑10. 9375 Emerald Coast Parkway (The Market Shops at Sandestin), 837‑9710 and 4540 Hwy 20E, Niceville 897‑3964. RuM RUNNERS SPORTS BAR Upstairs from the restaurant, the sports bar features specials on appetizers and draft beer for NFL Sunday football and college games on Saturday. Village of Baytowne Wharf, 130 Fisherman’s Cove, 351-1817.

Casino Entertainment Beau Rivage Biloxi, MS (888) 566-7469 COUNTING CROWS WITH MICHAEL FRANTI & SPEARHEAD AND AUGUSTANA August 6

Shades at the loop Good selection of local seafood and land fare, simply prepared, served with efficiency and a smile. Grilled, fried and blackened fish and chicken, sandwiches and salads. Pork chops, steak, even wings and pizza. Full bar and wide choice of draft and bottled beers. $5-24, 10952 Hwy 30A, Inlet Bch, 231-9410.

LIBRARY EVENTS Coastal Branch Library 437 Greenway Trail, off of Hwy 331N, 267‑2809. Thursdays: 11 a.m. The reading program for children with a variety of guest performers lined up. For complete information, call 267-2809. Destin Library 150 Sibert Avenue, 837‑8572. Tuesdays: 3 p.m. Cuddlers and Toddlers Story Time for children six months to 4 years old, held in the children’s room at the new Destin library. Each session is limited to 15 children and their parents. Thursdays: 9:30 a.m. Cuddlers and Toddlers Story Time for children six months to 4 years old, held in the children’s room at the new Destin library. Each session is limited to 15 children and their parents. Fort Walton Beach Library 185 Miracle Strip, 833‑9590 The Friends of the Fort Walton Beach Library sell new and good condition used books from fifty cents to $5. The store is located in the lobby of the library and is open from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Saturday. Donations are welcome during these hours. VALPARAISO COMMUNITY LIBRARY 459 Valparaiso Parkway, (850) 729-5406 First Monday of Each Month, 6:30 p.m. Creative Gardener and Floral Design Series sponsored by the Valparaiso Garden Club.

toni braxton August 8

Mondays, 4 p.m. Story Time for Elementary School Children. Parents welcome to participate with their children in art activities, reading, and a pre-planned story with the library staff. Tuesdays, 9:30 a.m. Story Time for Ages 6 Months to 5 Years in the newly remodeled Children’s Area. Wednesdays, 9 a.m. to noon. Assisted Genealogy Research. The library’s genealogy collection includes over 6,700 books and printed documents, along with microfilm census records from the 1800s.

B E AC H S I D E WORSHIP SERVICES cHURCH OF THE RESURRECTION EPISCOPAL CHURCH (UECNA) 1928 Book of Common Prayer Service, 10 a.m. Sundays, communion service 2nd and 4th Sundays, morning prayer, 1st, 3rd, and 5th Sundays. 66 8th Street, Shalimar, 651-9800. Destin United Methodist Church Sunday Morning Worship Services at 8, 9:30 & 11 a.m. at 200 Beach Drive, Destin, 837‑2021. EMERALD COAST LUTHERAN CHURCH Services are held at 8 a.m. at the Chapel of the Community Church on the side of Church Street. 3524 U.S. 98 West, Santa Rosa Beach. (850) 650-0339 faith assembly christian church Sunday worship services: 8:45 and 11 a.m. Nursery and children’s church is available. Wednesday bible study at 7 p.m. Located at 306 S. Geronimo St. in Miramar Beach, three blocks west of Silver Sands Outlet Mall. 837-7561. First Baptist Church of Seagrove Sunday services at 10 a.m. and Wednesdays at 6 p.m. 4915 E Hwy. 30A, Seagrove, 231‑2884. Good News United Methodist Church Sunday services

8:50 a.m., traditional worship 9:45 a.m. Sunday school, 11 a.m., contemporary worship, 4747 Hwy 98W, Santa Rosa Beach, 622-9191. grace lutheran church Worship services at 8 and 10:30 a.m. Sundays, 4325 Commons Drive, 654-1679. Hope Lutheran Church (LCMS) Beach worship at 8 a.m. at Ed Walline Beach Park at the intersection of CR-30A and CR-393 in Santa Rosa Beach. Sunday worship service at 1477 S. CR-393 (in the Crosspoint Baptist Church building) begins at 8:45 a.m. followed by Bible study. For more info, call 267-0322. Santa Rosa Community Church Interdenominational service 10 a.m. Sundays. 3524 Hwy. 98W, 267‑7599. Shoreline church Non-denominational modern Sunday service at 9 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. at Rave Motion Pictures in Destin Commons. Kids church and nursery available, 650-8658 or shorelinechurch.net. St. Andrews Episcopal Church Service at 10:30 a.m. Sundays. 307 Hwy. 98E, Destin, 650‑2737. St. Markella & Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church Sunday service at 10 a.m. 400 Hwy. 98E, Mary Esther, 244‑0822. St. Rita Catholic Church Saturday service at 5:30 p.m. through Oct. 1, then 4 p.m. through Easter. Sunday services at 8 and 10 a.m. 137 Moll Drive (just south of Hwy 98W) Santa Rosa Bch, 267‑2558. St. Simon’s on the Sound Episcopal Church Sunday services at 7, 8, and 10:30 a.m. and 6 p.m. 28 Hwy. 98W, FWB, 244‑8621. Village Baptist Church Sunday services at 9 and 10:30 a.m. 101 Matthew (one block south of Hwy. 98E), Destin, 837‑8107.

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THE

Shores SALON

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ip casino resort & spa Biloxi, MS (800) 595-4849 Foreigner August 14 bell biv devoe August 21

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midnight confessions August 6

Specializing in weddings Walk-ins welcome Full line of products: Loreal-Kenra-Logics-Voila

band x August 7-8 isis August 14-15

In Paradise Shores Shopping Center (next to Target) Main Street, Destin

A ugust 6, 2009 - August 19, 2009

The Beachcomber

Page 23

Pick up a FREE copy fortnightly at any of these fine establishments. SCENIC HIGHWAY 30-A

Islander Jersey Mike’s Subs Jetty East Bud & Alley’s, Seaside La Paz Café Thirty A, Seagrove Beach Lifetree Health & Herb Cara Roy Artworks, Seaside Louisiana Lagniappe Cocoon’s, Seagrove Beach Lucky Snapper Enzo’s, Seagrove Beach Mellow Mushroom Fonville Press, Alys Beach Motel 6 Garrett Realty, Seagrove Beach Johnny McTighe’s, Blue Mountain 98 Palms Spirits Oasis Beach Miss Lucille’s Gossip Parlor, Santa Palms of Destin/Trader Vic’s Pepito’s Rosa Beach Publix – Paradise Key Modica Market, Seaside Old Florida Fish House, Seagrove Shores Salon Silver Sands Beach Seagrove Place, Seagrove Beach Silver Shores Sterling Shores Shades at the Loop, Inlet Beach TGI Friday’s Starbucks Coffee, Rosemary Thai Delights Beach Tropical Smoothie Watercolor Inn, Watercolor Twisted Palm/Club Overboard Wild Olives, Rosemary Beach Village Inn Wing Stop BASIN BAYOU Wyndham Visitors Center Gunter Recreation Area

DESTIN

AJ’s baby J’s Bank Trust Barbery Coast Best Western Callahan’s Champa Shop Ciao Bella Club Destin Comfort Inn Destin Athletic Club Destin Commons Information Kiosk Destin Commons Welcome Center Destin Library Destin Pointe Destin RV Camp Emerald Towers Enterprise Rent-A-Car Fisherman’s Wharf Fudpucker’s Graffiti/Funky Blues Shack Hog’s Breath Café Holiday Inn Holiday Resort Holiday Surf & Racquet Club Hooters Inlet Reef The Inn on the Harbor

FORT WALTON BEACH

Ali Baba Bangkok House Big City Café Black Angus Restaurant Buffalo’s Reef Buffalo Wild Wings Caffe Italia Fort Walton Beach Library Original Waterfront Crab Shack Publix – Perry Avenue Santa Rosa Mall Scully’s on the Bayou Shangri La Vintage Boutique Slick Mick’s

FREEPORT

Vallarta de Noche

GRAYTON BEACH

Hibiscus Bed and Breakfast The Red Bar The Zoo Gallery

inlet beach Spicy Noodle

MIRAMAR BEACH

Boca Boutique Buster’s Camping on the Gulf Candlewood Suites

Dynasty Chinese Restaurant Fat Clemenza’s Hidden Dunes Jersey Mike’s Subs Movie Gallery Resort Quest, Tops’l Seascape Golf Sleep Inn

NAVARRE

Best Western Dale Peterson Vacations Emerald Coast RV Campground Navarre Visitors Center Publix Sailor’s Grill Winn-Dixie Marketplace

NICEVILLE

Artful Things Beef O’Brady’s Ciao Bella Emerald Coast Coffee Food World Giuseppi’s Wharf Holiday Inn Express Kelley’s Supermarket Po Folks

OKALOOSA ISLAND

Angler’s Beachside Grill Best Western Breakers Destin West Four Points Sheraton Fudpucker’s Gulfarium Holiday Inn Kitty Hawk Kites Old Bay Steamer Scoreboard Bar & Grill Tom Thumb

PANAMA CITY BEACH

Bay Arts Alliance Beachcomber by the Sea Beachcomber Motel Best Western Boars Head Restaurant & Tavern Capt. Anderson’s Carousel Supermarket Chateau Motel Days Inn Emerald Isle Fountainbleau Gulf World Marine Park Holiday Inn Sunspree

Holiday Terrace Legacy by the Sea Osprey Hotel Palmetto Inn Paradise Inn Pompano’s Lakeside Quality Inn Ramada Inn Sandpiper Beacon Winn-Dixie – Front Beach Road

SANDESTIN

Bayside Inn Beef O’Brady’s Market Shops Parlor Reading Room Marriott Courtyard Marriott Residence Inn Sandestin Check-in Sunset Shoes/Birkenstock Wyndham Bay Club

SANTA ROSA BEACH

Beachwalk Crescent Coastal Branch Library Kathleen’s Kottage 98 Bar-B-Que Scavengers South Walton Realty Walton County Tourist Development Center

SCENIC 98

Ariel Dunes Bad Ass Coffee Beach House Condos Cabana Cafe The Crescent Crystal Beach Resort Destin RV Park Edgewater Embassy Suites Gulfview Gulf Winds East Kenny D’s Leeward Key Majestic Sun Ramada Inn Sea Oats Motel Surfside Theo’s Pizza Pub

SHALIMAR

Network Video

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Enterprise Rent-A-Car

For information on advertising in The Beachcomber, call Nancy Nacol, (850) 217-1583 or The Beachcomber office, (850) 650-9940. Page 24

The Beachcomber A ugust 6, 2009 - August 19, 2009

30a TV Show Seeking Favorite Recipes for “Julie and Julia” Movie Premiere Special to the Beachcomber Local 30a Television (www.30atelevision. com) will commemorate the premiere of the upcoming movie Julie and Julia with a live taping of their popular The 3 Julias show at Rave Motion Pictures in Destin Commons, Aug. 9 at 1pm. 30a Television has been running the comedic show for 15 months, starring “Julia Childs,” Julie Brown, and Redd. The format of the show is loosely based on the PBS classic The French Chef, but with the twist of adding additional chefs to make a combination of a food dish paired with fabulous wines and cocktails. The trio also includes guest chefs in some episodes. Viewers are invited to request their favorite Julia Child dish at www.30abuzz. com and have a chance to win free tickets to the movie if their requested recipes

are featured. The best suggestion will win a $400 iTouch. Guest chefs will be on hand to carve out some quick fire Juila Child recipes—they include Alison Porter, Carl Schaubut from Grayton Beach’s Fire Restaurant, and Sarah Schreifer of Sarah K’s Gourmet in Destin. “We do get a lot of positive feedback from viewers, and we have a blast filming the show,” says Redd, whose husband Paul Vizard portrays Julia Child. “We were so excited to hear of the movie release, especially with Meryl Streep playing the role of Julia Child. Both are icons in their fields, I hope we do them justice.” A reception and meet-and-greet will take place 15 minutes prior to the movie. The show will air on Mediacom, Comcast and Cox networks in Walton, Okaloosa and Bay counties, and on the 30a Television website.



A ugust 6, 2009 - August 19, 2009

The Beachcomber

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The Emerald Coast’s Best Live Music Coverage

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SEASIDE SUMMER CONCERT SERIES S’ GUILD,  PITT, BEGGAR RS DREAD CLAM ACO RAMBLE HIGHTIDE BLUES, W beginning! st the  ...and that’s ju

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Page 27

The Beachcomber is found virtually everywhere across the heart of the Emerald Coast. Read the entire paper online at www.thebeachcomber.org.

Navarre • Fort Walton Beach • Niceville Bluewater Bay • Destin • Santa Rosa Beach Seaside • Rosemary Beach • Panama City Beach Pick up a fresh copy at Publix Supermarkets every two weeks (free and fortnightly).

Coming in the AUGUST 20 Beachcomber... Our Exciting Pre-Labor Day Issue!...and Much, Much More!

Deadline for advertising and press releases for the next issue is Friday, August 14... in today’s economic climate, you can’t afford NOT to be in the Beachcomber!

Page 26

The Beachcomber A ugust 6, 2009 - August 19, 2009

The Apples of My Eye...dining with Bruce Collier

Summer Kitchen Cafe— Good Food, Inside and Out

We ate dinner at Summer Kitchen Cafe on a recent weekend (dinner is served Thursday through Monday). The restaurant also serves breakfast and lunch daily, with completely different menus. They have both inside and outside seating. We ate inside.

That said, the cafe is a cottage-like structure, with a small indoor dining room and numerous outdoor tables. The walls are furnished with colorful, local-looking artwork and prints. It’s informal, but in that south Walton way. Weather permitting, I could see eating outside, but not that evening, which was hot. The cafe

60 North Barrett Square Rosemary Beach (850) 231-6264

Hours: Open daily for breakfast, 8-10:30 a.m.; lunch, 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.; dinner Thurs.-Mon., 5:30 p.m. Reservations: Accepted Children’s Menu: Yes Dress: Casual Atmosphere:  Food Quality:  Service:  Overall: 1/ 3

Summer Kitchen Cafe is located in Rosemary Beach on Barrett Square, squarely at the center of the action. It’s a busy spot, especially these days, with tourists coming and going steadily to and from the nearby beach and shops. The night we ate there was apparently Large Tourist Family Night. The cafe staff seated, served and patiently put up with three or four large groups, full of slightly dazed parents and highly active kids. Summer Kitchen Cafe has a children’s menu, and little ones are welcome, but it would have been nice to see some parents exercise a little more control. A waiter balancing a cup of hot coffee does not need to navigate a shifting obstacle course of sunburned and whining little Zachs and Abigails, especially right under the benignly-neglectful noses of Mom and Dad. Folks—you gave ‘em life, give ‘em some manners while you’re at it. Or at least some supervision. Extra credit to the servers.

Summer Kitchen Cafe

takes a lot of to-go orders, along with the sit-down diners. The staff is young, friendly and agile. Our server that night was Peter, who gave us menus, took drink orders, and told us about some specials. The menu offers appetizers, salads, main dishes and desserts, all of which are subject to modification or change daily. There’s a list of beers and wine, including wines by the glass. At one point, when the children’s revels were at their height, Peter discreetly asked if we wanted to move outside. We declined, but it was thoughtful of him. We ordered a trio of dips—hummus, herbed cheese, and tapenade, served with lots of sliced pita bread. It’s $6, and it’s plenty for two. The other starters that night were a special soup—shrimp bisque, which had just sold out—and a crab cake. The dips were all distinctive, rich and full of



flavor. In addition to the dips, the kitchen sent out a basket of large cubes of warm focaccia, to be eaten with olive oil (already on the table). I believe everybody gets that. I had ordered the sold-out bisque, so I was in a mood for shrimp. I got the shrimp and grits, served in a garlic butter sauce. My friend ordered a jerk-roasted pork tenderloin. About eight large shrimp, peeled, came arranged around a mound of thick grits, laced with scallions, smoked meat and kernels of corn in a buttery sauce. The tender pork was glazed with a sweet and spicy citrus balsamic sauce. It came in slices on a pile of smooth mashed sweet potatoes, garnished with crunchy plantain chips. Everything looked and tasted, great. We ate every bite, employing the focaccia to get the last of the sauces. Other entrees that night were a cobia special, grilled chicken and spinach salad,

shrimp and penne pasta, creamy parmesan chicken and fettuccini, portabella, garlic, tomato and spinach fettuccini, grouper served pan-fried or pan-roasted, and a seven-pepper grilled salmon. The sides served with the dishes include, variously, cheese grits, sautéed vegetables, spinach and artichokes. Desserts that night included zuppa inglese (“English soup”), chocolate spoon cake, and pecan pie, and some others that I can’t recall—they vary nightly. We got the first to share. Like the appetizer, it was plenty for two. It was two scoops of sponge cake, soaked with creamy mascarpone and chocolate, sort of like cake-and-ice-cream meets tiramisu. The zuppa was creamy, light, and not overly sweet, a grownups’ dessert. Thank you, Italy. Like the rest of Walton County, Rosemary Beach is currently loaded with visitors, some less relaxed than others. Summer Kitchen Cafe is ideally suited—by location, menu, and staff temperament—to offer all comers a fine meal in a pleasant, welcoming beachside atmosphere.

A ugust 6, 2009 - August 19, 2009

The Beachcomber

Page 27

M A R K E T

B A R

B I S T R O

World class food, impeccable wine list, & dozens of accolades. Relax, it’s just us. Sure we have the ingredients that continually make us a 4 star restaruant. We just don’t act that way. ................................................................... O P E N F O R L U N C H & D I N N E R D A I LY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . SR ...

BN Wi ne Bou tique

Page 28

The Beachcomber A ugust 6, 2009 - August 19, 2009

Restaurant Guide Restaurants reviewed by our staff of professional eaters are rated; all others give an overview of the type of food being served, the price range, address and phone. The rating reflects the level of excellence on one day only. Happy eating! KEY ����� Excellent ���� Terrific ��� Honorable �� Worth checking out � Order takeout or cook at home

american cabana cafe ���� Large, informal and kid-friendly, Cabana Cafe offers a varied menu of snacks, pizzas, grilled and cold sandwiches, burgers, and more sophisticated grownup fare. Cuban sandwich, po’boys, steaks, fish tacos, and pasta specialties. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are served daily. Full bar. $5-28. 112 Seascape Blvd., Miramar Beach, (850) 424-3574. Callahan’s restaurant and deli ���2/³ A local lunch and dinner favorite for years, it offers a wide selection of sandwiches, salads, burgers, steaks and chops. Favorites are New York strip steak, prime rib and you-name-it deli sandwich classics. daily speicals, wine and beer, $4-19, 791 Harbor Blvd, Destin, 837-6328. Hartell’s Serves breakfast, lunch, dinner and late night burgers, fries, shakes and ice cream. The Village of Baytowne Wharf, Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort, (850) 654-9453. Hog’s Breath Cafe ���� A variety of food options including hamburgers, appetizers, certified Angus beef, and local Gulf seafood entrées at great prices. Daily specials. Live music seven days a week. $4‑19, 541 Hwy. 98E, Destin, 837‑5991. the magnolia grill Historic 1920s Florida charm, often called “a museum that serves food.” Seafood, steaks, Italian favorites, wine and beer. Delighted to take your reservation. $5-24, 157 Brooks Street SE, Fort Walton Beach, (850) 302‑0266. www.magnoliagrill.com.

Catering & Special Events Mary’s kitchen ���� A country outpost since 1950, On Site or Off

Mary’s offers pork barbecue, fried catfish and a wellchosen list of hearty homestyle items. Meatloaf burgers, sandwiches, and plenty of sides. Pies made in-house daily. Lunch and dinner, Mon-Sat. $4-11. 186-G Eglin Pkwy. NE, Fort Walton, 863-1141.

Casual Dining

rum runners ���� This is the Baytowne Wharf place with the dueling pianos. It’s also a comfortable spot for lunch and dinner, with a variety of appetizers, wraps, sandwiches and main dishes featuring beef, chicken and plenty of Gulf seafood. Full bar, open for lunch and dinner. $7-25. 130 Fisherman’s Cove, Sandestin, 351-1817.

Every Mon All You Can Eat Snow Crab Legs $21.95 per person

SILVER SANDS Serving breakfast seven mornings a week from 5:30‑10:30 a.m. Big country breakfasts fit for the sea‑going fisherman in the true tradition of Destin. $3‑12, 538 Hwy 98 (Harbor Docks Restaurant), Destin, 837‑2506.

Santa

slick mick’s This is a family owned deli, grill, and sports bar featuring authentic Philly cheese steaks, brick oven pizza,Beach, deli and specialty sandwiches and salads in a laid Rosa FL 32459 back family atmosphere. A great draft beer selection, too. $8‑12, 19 N. Eglin Pkwy, FWB, 864‑5577. Wing-stop “The Wing Experts” Chicken wings & tenders always made fresh-to-order & served steaming hot, ready in less than 14 minutes. Sauced in nine proprietory flavors Homemade sides & fresh cut fries. Offering Wine & Beer. Dine in or Take Out 837-5333 Walmart Shopping Center, 16055 Emerald Coast Pkwy. Suite #111, Destin, Locally owned and operated.

Barbeque HOG’S BREATH BOSS HOG BBQ Smoked dry rubbed ribs, Boston butts, chickens and turkeys. Sandwiches and plates, full service catering. Homemade key lime pies and picnics to go. Located next to Hog’s Breath Café. 837‑0644. JamBone ���� Organically raised barbecue with an array of seasonings and sauces. Brisket, wings, pork, ribs, chicken, burgers, and sides. There’s a seafood raw bar, more than 100 beers, and live music. Friendly service in a casual atmosphere. Lunch and dinner daily, full bar. $2 - 23. 3906 U.S. 98 West, Santa Rosa Beach, 267-1497.

E SIZE Breakfast & More hibiscus coffee & guesthouse Nestled among the trees, surrounded by herb and flower gardens and serving vegetarian breakfasts from 7:30 to 11:30 a.m. with comfortable rooms in the Old Florida laid back atmosphere. Café $2‑$9. Rooms

Seafood Steaks Pasta

Cajun & Creole New orleans creole cookery ����� A.J. Tusa, a thirdgeneration restaurateur, invites you to taste the flavors of New Orleans. Come try a roast beef po-boy, spicy boiled crawfish or shrimp, or a deep fried seafood platter. Full bar. $5-32. Village of Baytowne Wharf, Sandestin, (850) 351-1885.

Casual Dining camille’s sidewalk café ���¾ Sandwiches of many kinds and colors are the star at this busy cafe. An extensive menu offers hot and cold meat and vegetable wraps, panini, salads, and soups, washed down with fruit smoothies. Breakfast, lunch and dinner served. $4-8. 10406 Emerald Coast Parkway, (Silver Sands Factory Stores) Sandestin, 650-2920. Whale’s Tail Beach Bar & Grill If you want to feel like you’re at a real beach bar, this is the place; good food and drinks, plus superb bloody marys. Breakfast, lunch and dinner. $4‑15, 1373 Scenic Gulf Dr. Destin, 650‑4377.

Full Bar

Summer Hours: Monday - Saturday 5:00-10:00pm No Reservations Required In The Old Nick's Restaurant Building on 30A in Blue Mountain Beach 2210 W. Co. Hwy. 30A 850-267-0374

COFFEE HOUSES/Delis Bad Ass Coffee Company A gourmet coffee house specializing in Kona coffee, espresso, cappuccino, and lattes. Full deli featuring Boar’s Head products and homemade muffins, plus breakfast sandwiches and desserts. Free wireless Internet access and merchandise. Open daily at 7 a.m. $1‑6.50. 1708 Scenic Gulf Drive, Miramar Bch, 269‑3997. Camille’s at Crystal Beach A coffee and market shop, overlooking the gulf. Camille’s offers a wide variety of coffee, breakfast, muffins, sandwiches, salads, fresh fruit smoothies and a package store. Open daily. 2931 Scenic Hwy 98, Destin, 337‑8860. MISS LUCILLE’S GOSSIP PARLOR Get the scoop and a whole lot more! Enjoy coffee, espresso, breakfast, lunch, fabulous desserts, and free Internet (WiFi) service. Open every day at 7:30 a.m. Located at the corner of 393 & 30-A, Santa Rosa Beach, 267‑BLAB.

Catering & Special Events On Site or Off

Contemporary bistro bijoux ����� The jewel still sparkles at Baytowne, serving a seasonal menu including quail, venison, duck, steak, chicken, veal and seafood with spectacular sauces and a variety of sides. Terrific bread, and desserts worth planning for in advance. Nightly specials, full bar. $8-38. 9100 Baytowne Blvd., Village of Baytowne Wharf, Sandestin, (850) 622-0760. bogey’s ���� Fine dining in the beautifully maintained old Hotel DeFuniak. Fish, shellfish, chicken, veal and beef prepared in both traditional and imaginative new ways. Soft-shelled crab, prime rib, chicken piccata, scampi, even fish and chips, in a soothing and elegant dining room. Lots of dessert choices, full bar. $5-30. 400 U.S. 90 East, DeFuniak Springs, (850) 951-2233.

teaks • Stromboli • Calzones • and More!

3003

Casual Family Dining

$120‑$130. 85 DeFuniak Street, Grayton Bch, 231‑2733. www.hibiscusflorida.com.

TAKE OUT ORDERS AVAILABLE

Casual Dining

Brick Oven Pizzas • Pasta Creations • Seafood • Steaks • Stromboli • Calzones • and More!

850-267-3003 1598 County Road 393 S. Suite 102 | Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459

bud & alley’s ����� This Seaside perennial just keeps getting better. Lunch and dinner daily, with a varying menu offering grilled, roasted, and sautéed fish and shellfish, quail, chicken, pork, and plenty of interesting accompaniments. Full bar, $4-34. 2236 CR30A East, Seaside, 231-5900. CALLAHAN’S RESTAURANT AND DELI ���� A local lunch and dinner favorite for years, Callahan’s offers a wide selection of sandwiches, salads, steaks and chops. Favorites include New York strip steak, prime rib and you-name-it deli sandwich classics. Daily specials, wine, beer and cocktails. $4-19. 791 Harbor Blvd., Destin, (850) 837-6328. CAMELLIA GRILL ���� Come early, stay late at this recently-opened dining spot on the Destin Harbor. Friendly servers talk you through a menu offering formidable omelettes, waffles, and hearty sandwiches, grilled before your eyes and served over the counter in a bright diner atmosphere. Burgers, roast beef sandwiches, BLTs, chili, ice cream desserts and old-fashioned pies. $1-9. 2 Harbor Blvd., Destin, (850) 650-2907. courtyard wine & cheese A wine bar featuring low production wines by the glass, bottle or for retail. The tasting room opens to a courtyard and an artisan cheese shop featuring cheeses, cured meats, oils, vinegars, cheese plates, and fondue. Tasting and live music regularly, call for details. WiFi compatible. (850) 231-1219.



GARRETT REALTY / BEACH RENTALS SIZE

A ugust 6, 2009 - August 19, 2009

The Beachcomber

Page 29

Restaurant Guide continued The Boston Brothers, Gerry & Al Scala invite you to taste their Mother’s secret recipes !

Antipasta - Pasta - New Your Style Subs(Cold or Hot) Pizza - Dough Made Daily, Hand Tossed with Moma's Sauce Lasagna - Eggplant Parmesean - Nonno's Aglio Olio

All Homemade Daily

fire ���� A warm place to eat in Grayton Beach, offering a seasonally varied menu of fish, shellfish, meat and poultry served with imaginative sides in a cozy, homelike setting. Pheasant, pork roulades, veal, grouper, and short ribs are among the choices. Lunch and dinner, wine and beer. $6-35, 55 Clayton Lane, Grayton Beach, 231-9020. great southern cafe ���� Coastal, Louisiana bayou and country cooking in the heart of Seaside, served in style with elegant touches and in large portions. Robust appetizers, main courses and sandwiches, with favorites like cheese grits, grillades, po-boys, oysters Rockefeller, steaks, chicken, burgers and pasta. They even have blackeyed peas and fried green tomatoes. Daily specials, full bar. $5-28. 83 Central Square, Seaside, (850) 231-7327. solaris dinner/dance cruise ����¾ Drink, dine, and even dance on the water with an evening cruise from Baytowne Marina. SunQuest Cruises’ entertainment yacht Solaris offers fine dining and musical entertainment. Limited advance reservation menu, wine and full bar, as well as special cruises. $68 for dinner and cruise. SunQuest Cruises, Baytowne Marina, Sandestin, 650-2519.

Hours: Monday - Sunday 11am - 10pm

14091-C Emerald Coast Parkway- Destin, Fla. In the Emerald Coast Centre next door to Bealls

www.comegetsauced.com

Come for the Food SUN ...Stay for the FUN!

summer kitchen cafe ����1/³ Located at the heart of the Rosemary Beach action, Summer Kitchen Cafe offers relaxed, informal inside and outside dining just a short walk from the beach. Breakfast, lunch and dinner available—waffles, omelets, sandwiches, salads, local fish and shellfish, prepared with some imaginative sauces and sides. Shrimp with grits, jerk pork, and pasta dishes are some of the varied items. Beer and wine, $4-22. 60 N. Barrett Square, Rosemary Beach, (850) 231-6264. WILD OLIVES ���� A relaxing spot for a relaxing breakfast, lunch or dinner in the heart of Rosemary Beach, whether you dine in or outside. Salads, sandwiches, pizzas, even tapas, pastries and a well-stocked deli/ grocery counter. Roast, beef, chicken, fresh catchof-the-day, Italian and Greek sandwiches and salads. Beer and wine. $3- 20. 104 N. Barrett Square, Rosemary Beach, (850) 231-0065.

Eclectic Big City american bistRo ����� A bistro offering an extensive menu of both high-toned and comfort food such as meat loaf and mac and cheese. Other choice are rack of lamb, grilled fish and steaks, and pizza. Polished service, and swoon-inducing desserts. Wine and beer. $5-29, 171 SW Brooks Street, FWB, 664-0664. CAFÉ THIRTY-A ����� Cafe Thirty-A has been here a while. Finding out why can be a delicious experience. A nightly-changing menu offers steaks, chicken, pork, lamb, and local seafood elegantly prepared with imaginative sauces and sides, courteously served in a beautiful beach-house atmosphere. Lobster bisque, stone crab claws, seasonal fish and shellfish, and wood oven-baked pizzas. Full bar. $8-36. 3899 E. Scenic Highway 30-A, Seagrove Beach, (850) 231-2166.

LIVE MUSIC WEEKLY HAPPY HOUR 4 - 6 DAILY 850-267-2622 www.senormojitos.com

camille’s at crystal beach ����¹/³ Gulf Coast/New Orleans cooking meets the flavors of Japan in this warm, cozy dining establishment with a Gulf view. Seafood rules both on the regular menus and at the sushi bar. Full bar service offered. $4‑20, 2931 Scenic Hwy 98, Destin, 337‑8860.

at the foot of the 331 bridge

Graffiti’s at the village of baytowne wharf Waterfront dining. Eclectic Italian, seafood, steaks, and pasta. Visit the Rooftop Bar. The Village of Baytown Wharf, Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort, (850) 424-6650.

(Vin’tij) ����� Wine boutique and bistro. Wonderful food, service and atmosphere. Great approach to wine service offering Flight or tasters of unique varietals. Open daily for lunch or dinner plus a well stocked retail wine shop. $5-19, 10859 Emerald Coast Pkwy, Destin, 650-9820.

French BAY Café Splendid French and French‑inspired food served in a romantic atmosphere indoors or outdoors just under the Brooks Bridge. Choose from seafood, beef, chicken, duck, and some rarely seen French specialties. Terrific bread. Wine by the glass or bottle. Reservations accepted. $4‑28, 233 Alconese Avenue, FWB, 244‑3550. Café Provence Delicious soups, bread and desserts made daily. Fish, seafood, beef, lamb and duck all prepared from the freshest ingredients, served in a stylish French country atmosphere. Wonderful wines and full bar. Open for lunch and dinner Tues.-Sat. 11 a.m.-2 p.m. and 5-9 p.m. Sunday brunch 10:30 a.m.-2 p.m. Reservations suggested. $5-45. 35 Mussett Bayou Road, Santa Rosa Beach. (850) 622‑3022.

Italian CaffÉ Italia ����¹/³ Set in an 80-year-old house on the water, Caffé Italia offers comfort and friendly service. Traditional Italian-style appetizers, pastas, lasagna, pizzas, and house specialties, made with fresh herbs and local fish. Wine, beer and bar. $4-24. 189 Brooks Street, Fort Walton Beach, 664-0035. Carrabba’s ���� Enjoy well-prepared and generously portioned Italian classics and specialties in a comfortable atmosphere friendly to adults and kids. Lasagne, ravioli, veal marsala, house made sausage, wood-fired pizzas, beef, chicken and seafood options, with nightly specials. Dinner daily, lunch and dinner on Sundays and full bar service. $4-22. 10562 Emerald Coast Pkwy, Silver Sands Factory Stores, 837-1140. Cuvee Beach Bistro and Wine Bar offers a conglomeration of multiregional cuisines reaching from New Orleans to Old Italy. The menu encompasses seafood, steaks, pastas and brick oven pizzas. Dinner from 5 - 10:30 pm nightly, with a special bar menu offered from 4 pm - midnight. 36120 Emerald Coast Parkway in Destin, Florida. Phone 850-650-8900. e n z o ’ s ���� S m a l l a n d e l e g a n t , E n z o ’ s ser ves an ambitious menu of Italian standards and specialties, including pastas with chicken, seafood or veal with an interesting selection of appetizers. Steaks, pizzas and calzones of all kinds. Excellent desserts. Wine and beer. $5-21. 1598 CR-393, Santa Rosa Beach, (850) 267-3003. fat clemenza’s ����� Pizza the way it should be, served piping hot from a brick oven, with simple and flavorful toppings. Traditional Italian menu offers bruschetta, pasta, calamari, ravioli, lasagna, and calzones. Don’t pass up dessert. Beer and wine, daily specials. $4-22. 12273 U.S. 98, Holiday Plaza, Destin, 650-5980. Graffiti ���� Mediterranean meets relaxed Florida coastal. Graffiti offers seafood, steak, various pastas with a range of sauces, pizza and walls covered with local artwork. The crayons are still on the tables. Wine and full bar service. $4-29, 707 Harbor Blvd. East, Destin, 654-2764. Graffiti, baytowne wharf ���� A splash of color at the Village of Baytowne Wharf, Graffiti offers a well-prepared, artfully presented array of pastas, fish, seafood, chicken, beef and pork with wine and herb-based sauces. Try the pasta bolognese or shellfish low country. Nightly specials and noteworthy desserts. Wine, full bar. $5-29. 109 Cannery Lane, Village of Baytowne, Destin (850) 424-6650.

...Stay for the FUN!

The Melting Pot ����� Fondue central, with cheese, meat, chicken, duck, and seafood fondues, blended tableside, complete with diner participation. Choose traditional, Caribbean, and do-it-yourself fondue-based meals. Save room for the chocolate fondues. Dinner daily, full bar. $8-52 and up. 11394 U.S. 98 West, Destin, (850) 269-2227. Picolo and the Red Bar Blackboard specials every day for lunch and dinner. Salads, burgers, soup, fish of the day, baked eggplant, pasta, and manicotti. Crab cakes on the weekends. $5‑18, 70 Hotz Ave, Grayton Bch, 231‑1008.

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Tha & t nk yo of y ouris u lo our ts f cals sup or al por l t!

Destin Commons Commons -- Destin, Destin, Fla Fla Destin Visit our our new new location location Tuscaloosa, Tuscaloosa, Ala. Ala. at at University University Mall Mall Visit Page 30

The Beachcomber A ugust 6, 2009 - August 19, 2009

Santa Rosa Beach Club ���� Fine food, attentive service and a great view of the Gulf, all in one place. Well-chosen club menu offers both land and sea based food, simply and elegantly present in a comfortable atmosphere. Grilled fish, beef, pork and pasta dishes. Daily specials and full bar for lunch and dinner. $5-31, 4801 Hwy 30A, Santa Rosa Beach, 267-2305. Trader Vic’s ����� Get a fix of the tropics at Trader Vic’s. Start off with one of the house’s specialty drinks, ranging from Mai Tais to Potted Parrots. Follow with an array of Polynesian, Chinese and Asian -inspired appetizers and entrees, including crispy duck, Hawaiian pork chops, curries, or steaks, seafood and chops prepared in a wood-fired oven. Desserts and after-dinner coffee drinks. Sunday brunch. $6-32. 4201 Two Trees Road (Palms of Destin), Destin, (850) 351-0900.

JOEY TOMATO’S ����� Joey Tomato’s is that little neighborhood Italian place you always wanted to know about. Family owned and operated, Joey Tomato’s offers a crowded lunch menu of New York inspired deli sandwiches, and a dinner menu featuring everything from lasagna and pasta favorites to sophisticated veal and seafood dishes. Desserts are in the best Italian tradition. Service is friendly and helpful. Beer and wine. $4-22. 1146 John Sims Pkwy. East, Niceville, (850) 729-3354. spicy noodle italian bistro A family-run business serving traditional Italian cuisine in a warm, friendly family atmosphere. We serve generous portions of quality meat, seafood, pasta and pizza dishes at an affordable price. Our bread, pizza dough and special dipping oil are made fresh daily. Lunch and dinner are served from 11:00 a.m. until 9:30 p.m. Early bird and happy hour prices from 3 to 6 p.m. We offer nightly specials and a children’s menu. Beer and wine are available. Dine in or take out. $4-19. 13667 East U.S. 98 (one mile east of Rosemary Beach), (850) 231-0955. www.spicy-noodle. com for complete menu and pricing.

Restaurant Guide continued LATIN / Mexican La Paz ���� La Paz offers just about anything one might want from a Mexican/Southwestern kitchen, including tamales, tacos, fajitas, burritos, enchiladas and quesadillas, throwing in a thoughtfully-prepared list of grilled local fish, shellfish and some imaginative spin-offs on classics. Daily specials, full bar. $4-20. 950 Gulf Shore Drive, Destin (850) 837-2247. Pepito’s Mexican Grill ����½ An enormous menu, plenty of room, and a friendly staff make Pepito’s a good bet for a Mexican snack or feast. Traditional and unusual fare includes carnitas, enchiladas, fajitas, vegetarian dishes, steaks and seafood specialties. $4-19. 757 Harbor Blvd, Destin, 650-7734.

MEDITERRANEAN Ali Baba Grill Café ���2/³ Satisfy your Greek and Middle Eastern cravings at this Fort Walton Beach lunch and dinner spot. Grilled lamb, beef, chicken and fish, as well as traditional Middle Eastern specialties like hummus, tabbouleh and baklava. Buffet available. $3-20, 550 Mary Esther Cut Off, FWB, 986-5555. Bombay Masala ���� One-of-a-kind Indian dining, with assorted curries, rice dishes, and savory breads. Chicken, lamb, shrimp and goat dishes, spiced from mild to fiery, plus an extensive vegetarian menu. Exotic desserts and beverages. Lunch and dinner. $2-15, 326 Eglin Pkwy, Fort Walton Beach, 862-0978.

ORIENTAL Dynasty Chinese Cuisine ����� All your Chinese favorites, classically prepared with individuality and served with style. Beef, chicken, pork and seafood, noodles and family-style dishes. Beer and wine. $2-19. 12889 Emerald Coast Pkwy, Miramar Plaza, Destin, 837-6675. LIN’S ASIAN CUISINE ���� Enjoy carefully prepared and artfully served Chinese and Southeast Asian dishes in a pleasant and welcoming atmosphere. Chicken, beef, pork, duck, fish and shellfish are cooked to suit most tastes, and Lin’s offers your favorites—General Tso’s chicken, Mongolian beef, pad thai, lo mein and kung pao, among many others. Beer and wine. $2-15. 130 Scenic Gulf Dr. #5B, Miramar Beach, (850) 424-5888.

Osaka Japanese Steakhouse & Sushi Bar ���� Enjoy fresh fish, shellfish, meat and chicken dramatically prepared before your eyes in the hibachi rooms. Or choose your favorite sushi, sashimi or house special rolls in the sushi bar. Open weekdays for lunch and dinner with full bar service. $5‑50 34745 Emerald Coast Pkwy, Destin. 650‑4688. Osaka Sushi Rocks ���� It’s the little Sushi house on the Lagoon. Osaka Sushi Rocks offers an extensive list of sushi, sashimi, and rolls, both classic and regional specialties. Friendly, serene atmosphere. Tempura, noodles and teriyaki favorites also available. Wine and beer. $4-50. 108 Cannery Lane, Village of Baytowne Wharf, 351-1006. Sai-Kyo Whether you go Japanese, Vietnamese, or pay a visit to both, this is the place. Sushi, rice dishes, and traditional soups (pho) meat and seafood rice platters, teriyaki, and stir-fries. Beer, wine, and sushi bar. $5-30. 14091 Emerald Coast Pkwy, (Emerald Coast Centre) Destin, 650-5319. Sauce Pizza & Pasta Joint. Traditional Authentic Italian Cuisine. The Boston Brothers, Al & Gerry Scala invite you to taste their Mother’s secret recipes! It’s all about the Sauce! Pizza- Dough made daily, hand tossed with Moma’s Sauce.Lasagna- Eggplant Parmesean- Antipasta- New York Subs (Cold or Hot). All Homemade Daily! Come get Sauced! Mon - Sun 11am - 10pm. 850-650-7900 and 850-654-8900. 14091-C Emerald Coast Parkway- Destin, Fla. In the Emerald Coast Centre next door to Bealls. Sushi siam ����½ East meets west and everyone wins at this attractive restaurant with an elegant atmosphere with reasonable prices. A full range of sushi, Japanese, Thai and a touch of European fare. Fish, shellfish, duck, beef, noodle and curry dishes, with a full bar and sushi bar. $4-25. 4236 Legendary Drive, Destin Commons, 650-5861.

PIZZA & PASTA

zones, salads, and specialty items. Pizzas traditional and exotic include pesto, jerk chicken, gourmet white, and Magical Mystery Tour. Colorful psychedelic décor and friendly service. $4‑25. 960 Hwy 98E, Sunsations Plaza, Destin, 650‑6420. Roberto’s Pizzeria Authentic Italian pizzeria serving homemade pies whole or by the slice, specialty seafood pizzas, muffulettas, lasagna, and great Italian salads plus beer and wine. Indoor/outdoor seating including our peaceful lakeside dining. All day and evening deliveries resort wide seven days a week. From small parties to large groups. Live music available and specialty menus to make your party a memorable experience. Contact Chris Ruyan, Event Coordinator, at (850) 218-2628 or call the restaurant at (850) 351‑1998. spicy noodle italian bistro A family-run business serving traditional Italian cuisine in a warm, friendly family atmosphere. We serve generous portions of quality meat, seafood, pasta and pizza dishes at an affordable price. Our bread, pizza dough and special dipping oil are made fresh daily. Lunch and dinner are served from 11:00 a.m. until 9:30 p.m. Early bird and happy hour prices from 3 to 6 p.m. We offer nightly specials and a children’s menu. Beer and wine are available. Dine in or take out. $4-19. 13667 East U.S. 98 (one mile east of Rosemary Beach), (850) 231-0955. www.spicy-noodle. com for complete menu and pricing.

SEAFOOD AJ’s Seafood & Oyster Bar offers fresh Gulf seafood selections, tender chicken dishes, juicy steaks and savory pasta to satisfy every appetite. Oyster Happy Hour Monday thru Friday 11 a.m. till 7 p.m. Open for lunch and dinner daily, reservation not required. $8-24. 116 Harbor Blvd, Destin, 837-0404. www.ajs-destin.com.

Giuseppi’s wharf ���� Feast on the bay and on the sunset, at this newly renovated Niceville favorite. Gulf, Italian and Louisiana-style seafood, steaks, and pasta specialties served in family-friendly atmosphere with a great view of the water. Lunch and dinner daily, full bar. $4-16. 821 Bayshore Drive, Niceville, (850) 678-4229.

baby J’s ���� Casual dining on the Destin harbor, with refined, thoughtfully-executed food. Raw oysters, sushi rolls, fish tacos, sandwiches, and daily specials of grilled, steamed and blackened fish and seafood, plus pasta, beef and chicken. Friendly, attentive service with full bar. $6-30. 194 Harbor Blvd., Destin, (850) 269-2222.

Mellow Mushroom Pizza Bakery ���� Widely, wildly assorted menu of stone baked pizzas, hoagies, cal-

THE Boat house Oyster Bar Open daily at 11 a.m. until ? with entertainment seven days a week. Award-winning

gumbo, oysters and the coldest beer in town. On the Destin Harbor 1/2 mile east of the Destin Bridge, 288 U.S. 98 E., $2.50-18.95. (850) 837-3645. CAPT. DAVE’S ON THE GULF ����¾ A tradition since 1977, Capt. Dave’s is a go-to place for the kind of seafood that made this area famous. A time-tested selection of fried, grilled, and broiled fish, shellfish, steaks and chicken, with house and seasonal specialties. Full bar. $5-25. 3796 Scenic Hwy 98, Destin, 837-2627. CAPT.’s table fish house restaurant & oyster bar Serves fresh local seafood. “We catch our fresh fish off our two commercial boats.” Grouper, trigger, amberjack, red fish. Full bar. 1110 St. Andrews, Panama City, (850) 767-9933. COPPER GRILL Excellent menu and the finest wines on the Emerald Coast. Fresh seafood and great steaks—fine dining at its best. Happy hour 4-7 p.m. Serving dinner at 5. Personal wines welcome; corkage fee. Reservations recommended, not required. 11225 U.S. 98 W., Miramar Beach, (850) 654-6900. Crab Trap (2 locations) ����� Getting seafood to the people is what it’s all about at Crab Trap. Huge space and plenty of tables, effecient staff, and a menu full of crab, shrimp, fish and shellfish prepared in old and new-fashioned ways. Full bar, $5-40. 3500 Scenic Hwy 98E, Destin, 654-2722 and 1430 Hwy 98W, Okaloosa Island Boardwalk, 301-0959. DEWEY DESTIN’S HARBORSIDE ���� The classics, done right, at this newly-opened waterside seafood establishment. Shrimp, crab, tuna, grouper, scallops, oysters and some land-based items, served fried, grilled, or steamed in most conceivable combinations. Family-friendly, with an accommodating staff. Nightly specials, full bar. $5-40. 202 Harbor Blvd., Destin, (850) 837-7525. Fisherman’s Wharf ���� Casual seafood dining, plain or fancy, overlooking the Destin fishing docks. Grilled, fried or blackened local fish and seafood, house specialties like East Pass grouper, mixed platters, and starters like ‘gator wings and fried green tomatoes. Lunch and dinner daily, full bar. $4-23. 210-D U.S. 98, Destin, (850) 654‑4766.

Caffe Italia

Europe on the sound with romantic ambiance for Rehearsal Dinners, Weddings, Engagements, Birthday Parties etc...

Since 1963

(Not Just a Restaurant but a Way of Life) Fresh Seafood Hand Cut Steaks

Catch of the Day Homemade Desserts

Trey Nick, 3rd Generation Owner Family Owned Since 1963 Homemade food cooked with fresh ingredients

850.664.0035 www.acaffeitalia.com

Scenic Location on the Bay Route 20 10 miles East of the Mid-Bay Bridge

Tues-Sun Open at 5pm for Dinner Docking Available

At the foot of the Brooks St. Bridge

OUTDOOR PATIO AND BAR

Tuesday through Sunday 11am - 8:30pm

850.835.2222

A ugust 6, 2009 - August 19, 2009

The Beachcomber

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Restaurant Guide continued Hammerhead’s Bar & Grille Party to live music and sunsets on the open deck overlooking the bay. Featuring chargrilled oysters on the half shell, steamed seafood buckets, grilled sandwiches and a large selection of specialty cocktails. $9‑25, Village of Baytowne Wharf, 351‑1997.

Lunch Specials $5.95 Dine In or Take Out 837-6675

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“Best Chinese on the Emerald Coast” Mon - Thur 11:00am - 9:30 pm Fri - Sat 11:00am - 10:00pm Closed on Sunday

Giuseppi’s wharf ���� Feast on the bay and on the sunset, at this newly renovated Niceville favorite. Gulf, Italian and Louisiana-style seafood, steaks, and pasta specialties served in family-friendly atmosphere with a great view of the water. Lunch and dinner daily, full bar. $4-16. 821 Bayshore Drive, Niceville, (850) 678-4229.

12889 Emerald Coast Pkwy (Miramar Plaza)

Harbor Docks Overlooking the Destin Harbor featuring original atmosphere and great seafood from our own seafood market, sushi and hibachi. Live entertainment on the deck. $4‑25, 538 Hwy 98, Destin, 837‑2506. JC’s off the hook ���� JC’s Off the Hook offers tasty and affordable fish, shellfish and steaks served in a comfortable, cheerfully decorated atmosphere within walking distance of the beach. Friendly service and a family-friendly menu featuring grilled, sauteed or fried grouper, mahi mahi, ribeye and sirloin steaks, chicken, shrimp and crab cakes. Nightly specials. Full bar, $4-20. 2210 W. Scenic Highway 30-A, Blue Mountain Beach. (850) 267-0374. louisiana lagniappe ����� Like the name says, prepare for something extra at Lagniappe, with Louisiana Creole seafood specialties from the Gulf, enriched with opulent sauces and toppings. Grilled, blackened, fried or baked grouper, shrimp, crab, swordfish, beef and chicken served in generous portions, with a great view thrown in. Sunday brunch, full bar. $6-33. 775 Gulf Shore Drive, Destin, (850) 837-0881. THE LOVE SHACK ���� Stay away fools, ‘cause food rules at the Love Shack. An outdoor pool and walls full of painted fish make a family and kid-friendly atmosphere. A varied menu features local seafood, steaks, chicken, ribs, and pasta dishes, with Southwest and Caribbean-style preparation. Jerk chicken, fish tacos, fried pickles and seafood baskets available, and more. Full bar. $4-22. 306 Bald Eagle Drive, Santa Rosa Beach, (850) 267-0399. Nick’s ���� Going strong at 40-plus, Nick’s is a local tradition for the best of the Gulf’s fish and shellfish. Fish, shrimp, oysters, scallops, and crab served grilled, steamed, or fried in a casual family atmosphere. Daily specials and raw oysters in season. Serving beer and wine. $4-26, 7585 Hwy 20, Basin Bayou, Freeport, 835-2222. Old Bay Steamer ����¹/³ Wide variety of fresh steamed seafood served in every imaginable combination. Choose from crab, shrimp, lobster, oysters, clams, mussels, and fresh catch of the day. Pasta and steak/seafood pairings also offered. Friendly, efficient service. Open daily for dinner, with full bar. $4‑27, 102 Santa Rosa Blvd., Okaloosa Island, 664‑2795.

Destin East Pass Two Week Tide and Sunset Chart Day

Low Time

08/06 08/07 08/08 08/09 08/10 08/11 08/12 08/13 08/14 08/15 08/16 08/17 08/18 08/19

9:03pm 8:59pm 8:43pm 8:08pm 6:40pm 11:51am 1:37pm 3:15pm 4:37pm 5:45pm 6:43pm 7:32pm 8:14pm 8:47pm

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High Time 10:59am 11:34am 12:18am 3:52am 2:50am 2:41pm 3:01am 3:43am 4:44am 5:56am 7:08am 8:16am 9:19am 10:19am

Sunrise

Sunset

6:08am 6:08am 6:09am 6:09am 6:10am 6:11am 6:11am 6:12am 6:13am 6:13am 6:14am 6:14am 6:15am 6:15am

7:36pm 7:35pm 7:34pm 7:33pm 7:32pm 7:31pm 7:31pm 7:30pm 7:29pm 7:28pm 7:27pm 7:26pm 7:24pm 7:23pm

The Beachcomber A ugust 6, 2009 - August 19, 2009

% Moon Visible 99 99 96 92 86 78 69 59 49 37 27 17 9 3

Original Waterfront Crab Shack ���¹/³ A taste of the good old days in one of the oldest waterfront seafood houses in the area. A menu crowded with fresh local seafood served fried, grilled, or steamed in every combination. Soups, salads, steaks, and sandwiches too. Full bar service with open patio/deck. Arrive by car or boat. $5‑25, 104 Miracle Strip Pkwy SW, FWB, 664‑0345. Poppy’s Seafood Factory ����� Resort casual fine dining featuring live Maine Lobster, USDA prime steaks and a variety of fresh local fish and shellfish. Flavors range from Cajun/Creole to coastal and Caribbean. Live music and decks overlooking the bay. Children’s menu, full bar services. $6‑50, Village of Baytowne Wharf, 351‑1996. Shades at the loop ���� Good selection of local seafood and land fare, simply prepared, served with efficiency and a smile. Grilled, fried and blackened fish and chicken, sandwiches and salads. Pork chops, steak, even wings and pizza. Full bar and wide choice of draft and bottled beers. $5-24, 10952 Hwy 30A, Inlet Bch, 231‑9410.

STEAKS Boar’s Head Restaurant & Tavern ���� Since 1978, a good reason to drive to Panama City Beach. Beef, seafood, pork, chicken, and game foods simply prepared, with an emphasis on grilling. Regular house specialties, nightly specials and live entertainment Wed‑Sat. Full bar service. $3.50 ‑ $27. 17290 Front Beach Rd, PCB, 866‑234‑6628. COPPER GRILL Excellent menu and the finest wines on the Emerald Coast. Fresh seafood and great steaks—fine dining at its best. Happy hour 4-7 p.m. Serving dinner at 5. Personal wines welcome; corkage fee. Reservations recommended, not required. 11225 U.S. 98 W., Miramar Beach, (850) 654-6900. Fleming’s prime steakhouse & wine bar An ongoing celebration of exceptional food and wine. Enjoy the finest aged prime beef and 100 wines by the glass in a lively, stylish atmosphere. Fleming’s is where evenings out become memorable times. 600 Grand Boulevard Suite M105, Sandestin, (850) 269-0830. Giuseppi’s wharf ���� Feast on the bay and on the sunset, at this newly renovated Niceville favorite. Gulf, Italian and Louisiana-style seafood, steaks, and pasta specialties served in family-friendly atmosphere with a great view of the water. Lunch and dinner daily, full bar. $4-16. 821 Bayshore Drive, Niceville, (850) 678-4229. PANDORA’S ����� The Emerald Coast’s oldest familyowned steakhouse specializing in only the finest choice USDA beef charbroiled over an open oak fire and the freshest local seafood. Prime rib special Wednesday and Sunday, only $14.95. Music with Greg Pendleton Wednesday, Friday and Saturday. Tuesday is Jazz Night with Sean Dietrich and Jim Ates. Happy Hour Tuesday-Friday, 5-7 p.m. Open 5 p.m.; call for reservations. Closed Mondays. 1226 Santa Rosa Blvd., Okaloosa Island, (850) 244-8669. Seagar’s prime steaks & seafood The area’s first AAA 4-Diamond restaurant specializing in the finest prime beef and freshest seafood available. Private dining facilities and wine room with more than 800 labels. Features tableside preparations and live piano nightly. Reservations recommended. 622-1500. $10‑50, 4000 Sandestin Blvd., at the Hilton Sandestin. www.SeagarsDestin.com

SUSHI

(all are in restaurants)

Camille’s at crystal beach $5‑10, 2931 Scenic Hwy 98, Crystal Beach, 337‑8860. Harbor Docks $3‑12; 538 Hwy 98, Destin, 837‑2506. old florida fish house $4-29; 5235 E Hwy 30A, Seagrove Beach, 534-3045. OSAKA JAPANESE STEAKHOUSE AND SUSHI BAR 34745 Emerald Coast Pkwy, Destin, 650‑4688. Osaka Sushi Rocks ���� It’s the little Sushi house on the Lagoon. Osaka Sushi Rocks offers an extensive list of sushi, sashimi, and rolls, both classic and regional specialties. Friendly, serene atmosphere. Tempura, noodles and teriyaki favorites also available. Wine and beer. $4-50. 108 Cannery Lane, Village of Baytowne Wharf, 351-1006. Sai-kyo $5-30, 14091 Emerald Coast Pkwy (Emerald Coast Centre), 650-5319.

tHAI Bangkok House ���� Still going strong at the same FWB location, Bangkok House offers an variety of Thai and other Asian-style dishes, including Thai curries, soups, dinner salads, roast duck, fried rice and noodle dishes, and plenty of seafood and vegetarian options. Weekly lunch buffet, full bar. $4-22. 201 Ferry Avenue, Fort Walton Beach, (850) 243-6911.

Staff’s Seafood Restaurant Excellent service is a hallmark of one of the area’s oldest dining establishments. Open only for dinner. $14‑25, 24 Miracle Strip Pkwy SE, 243‑3482.

lotus thai restaurant Thai cuisine prepared by natives of Thailand. Hot bar offered as a lunch special and full menu all day including stir-fry, pad thai and more. Open for lunch and dinner. 550 Mary Esther Blvd. (Longhorn Plaza), $3-$15, 243-3744.

Steamboat bar & grill Menu features etouffee, seafood, steaks, pasta, sandwiches, raw bar and Asian food. Open daily for lunch and dinner. $5-22. Live music and happy hour, 3-7 p.m. daily. Daily specials and full bar service. Inside and outside dining with covered patio. 4943 U.S. 98 West, Suite #1, Santa Rosa Beach, (850) 267-1522.

Thai Delights ����� Located in the heart of Destin, Thai Delights offers exemplary Thai cuisine, using fresh local seafood and plenty of flavorful Thai herbs and seasonings. Choose from stir-fries, curries, noodles, spicy soups and salads. Beer and wine are available. $4-25, 205 Mountain Drive, Destin, 650-3945.

Stinky’s fish camp ���� Seafood is king at this informal Santa Rosa Beach eatery. Oysters “all ways,” crawfish pie, catfish or frog legs meuniere, and gumbo are just a few of the Louisiana-inspired dishes. Service is friendly and attentive. Open daily, 11 a.m. to midnight. Full bar. $7-32. 5960 Scenic Highway 30-A. (850) 267-3053.

TRADITIONAL SOUTHERN Harbor Docks Serving lunch daily from 11‑4 p.m. offering fresh veggie plates, Thai food, shrimp, fish sandwiches and plates, and daily specials. $3‑12, 538 Hwy 98, Destin, 837‑2506.

W O EN N P O

Dine In or Take Out

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Seafood Delight

All orders must be placed by 6pm Certain exclusions apply

www.linsasiancuisine.com Phone: 850-424-5888 Fax: 850-424-5889

130 Scenic Gulf Dr. Suite 5B

850-622-0760

Miramar Beach, Fl. 32550

Village of Baytowne Wharf at Sandestin Resort

200% No MSG 100% Vegetable Oil

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Phone Ahead! (850) 837-5333

16055 Emerald Coast Parkway Ste. 111 | Destin, FL 32541 Located in the Destin Wal-Mart Shopping Center at the corner of Hwy 98 and Henderson Beach Rd.



A ugust 6, 2009 - August 19, 2009

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MYSTERY PHOTO CONTEST

Kevin Cornwell of Niceville was the first Beachcomber reader to identify Body X Change in Destin as our July 23 Mystery Photo Contest location. Call (800) 310-6964, and if you’re the first to identify this location, you’ll join our happy circle of winners.

Page 34

The Beachcomber A ugust 6, 2009 - August 19, 2009

The Beachcomber Book Review

A Fantastical Debut Novel By Lesha Denega Of Bees and Mists, the first novel by Erick Seitawa, is written in magic-realism style. The setting is somewhat vague, and the time period is equally elusive, but it is a world other than ours. The story focuses on Meridia, who grows up in a wealthy house where it is always cold, her mother is in a forgetful haze, and her father hatefully neglectful. Here live the mists. When Meridia falls in love and marries Daniel at the age of 16, the young couple moves into Daniel’s parents’ home. Enter spiteful Eva, Meridia’s mother-in-law. Initially, Meridia takes a liking to Eva, as she can be very charming when she wishes. To an affection-starved Meridia, Eva seems magical. This soon changes, and here the reader finds the bees—Eva’s bees. Strictly casting Eva as an outright villain would deny other characters their faults. Instead, Eva is an agitator supreme, and her noxious bees permeate every negative word she plants in everyone’s ears. She’s vain, spiteful, passive aggressive—and effective. I found the use of magic realism heightened the symbolism—entrancing thematic elements so that the symbolic meaning lined up directly to the action at play—and often eclipsed it. It was almost as if the reader had gone to the theater to see how the set and props were used in the show and paid little attention to the actors. The dialogue is somewhat stilted at times, and at others a bit lyrical, a disconnect that this reader is confident any future works from Setiawan will redress. This novel is not a fast read, nor is it plod-

ding. To reference theater again, it is something of a pageant—it lulls, it flows, but you know there is a large finale, and indeed, there is a good deal of knot tying in the end. Like any first novel, Of Bees and Mist has its stumbles but is for the most part delightfully broody and subtly fantastical.

KINSELLA PROVIDES With so many great books yet to be read, GHOSTLY ESCAPE summer re-reading list

few can make it to the reread pile. Shannon Hale’s latest, The Actor and the Housewife, makes the cut.

Becky Jack is a sheltered seven months pregnant Mormon housewife from Iowa who somehow manages to sell a screenplay. While meeting with the producer, she runs into her favorite actor, Felix Callahan. Their initial meeting includes everything awkward but somehow turns into something else. Friendship? Romance? Love? Witty, loyal, likable Becky Jack gets to live her biggest fantasy by getting to know her favorite celebrity. Her husband Mike is unaffected at first, but conflicts ensue when Becky questions her long held beliefs. Hale takes this fantasy and makes it stunningly believable. There is more than just the comedic fantasy at play here. Insights into marriage, family and sacrifice are beautifully blended into the plot. The banter between Felix and Becky is delightful. Wondering what will happen with the odd relationship makes The Actor and the Housewife a page-turner. The unexpected twists will leave readers gasping for breaths in between laughs. - Tara Manson

Looking for a good ghost story with a little chick lit mixed in? Sophie Kinsella’s Twenties Girl is the book for you. The story begins with Lara Lington attending the funeral of her great-aunt Sadie, whom she had never met. While at the funeral, Sadie’s ghost appears to Lara asking for her help in finding Sadie’s necklace. The necklace had been in Sadie’s possession for 75 years, and she cannot “rest” without it. While trying to help her aunt’s ghost, Lara must deal with a number of distractions in her personal life—her business partner has run off to Goa, her business is floundering, and her perfect man has just dumped her. Kinsella uses her brilliant humor to make a fun, fast read out of an ordinary ghost story. It is a perfect book to escape the demands of the day with. - Nicole James

UPCOMING BOOK RELEASES AUGUST 11 Smash Cut by Sandra Brown South of Broad by Pat Conroy Intervention by Robin Cook Blindman’s Bluff by Faye Kellerman

August 18 Vanished by Joseph Finder Teaching Hope by the Freedom Writers The White Queen by Philippa Gregory Soul of a Dog by Jon Katz The Long Snapper: A Second Chance, a Super Bowl, a Lesson for Life by Jeffrey Marx

“Aspire to Live Higher.” Gifts, music and books to lift the spirit, entertain the mind, and shape your life. New York Times best-seller "The Noticer", by Andy Andrews $15.00 with this ad

In August: Kerusso T’s 2 for $25 Next door to Dollar Tree behind the new Jim & Nick's Bar-B-Q. 14071-F Emerald Coast Pkwy Destin, FL 32541

850 / 654 - 4031



A ugust 6, 2009 - August 19, 2009

The Beachcomber

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The Beachcomber Goes to the Movies

A Comedian’s Comedy

By “Johnny C.” Alexander

As a writer, you’re always told to write what you know, and your audience will relate. Judd Apatow does just that in Funny People. Any comedian who has struggled to make a name for himself in the business can easily relate to Seth Rogen’s character, who works a minimum wage job to pay the bills and takes as many minutes as he can for free on amateur night if only to get a chuckle or two. His story is hauntingly familiar to the twentysomething demographic this movie is aiming at. Adam Sandler’s character represents the successful side of the comedy spectrum. He makes millions of dollars from his movies, which amounts to nothing since he has a life-threatening illness. Faced with this harsh reality, he goes back to his roots by taking the stage, giving any Adam Sandler fan a real treat considering he hasn’t done stand-up comedy in years. Sandler basically plays a darker version of himself in this film. It’s his deepest role yet. This movie covers more bases than the New York Yankees. It goes from facing one’s mortality to manipulations of amorous desire to sacrificing wants for needs. Needless to say, this film is more than Apatow’s usual work. The improvisational comedy is hilarious—which is to be expected—but Apatow does one better by piling on a comedic Who’s Who of cameos including Ray Romano, Paul

WHERE TO CATCH A MOVIE: Cinema Plus, Downtown FWB, (850) 3020129

Reiser and Sarah Silverman. The clips of stand-up follow the all-important rule of leaving the audience wanting more, or in this case, waiting with anticipation for the DVD release to see the bonus features.

enhanced underwear. Heigl and Butler play this scene superbly, with a combination of sexual tension and humor. But other scenes are predictable, even for this genre. The truth is ugly, but every once in a while, ugly isn’t too terribly bad. - Lauren Gall

Apatow gives a rare insight to the comedic process, showing comedians’ insecurities and competitive nature, as well as the mindnumbing thought process they deal with to get the perfect laugh. Any movie that gets a laugh while the jokes are only being put together deserves the highest of praises. Funny People is an inspiration for anyone who has a desire to make people laugh.

UPCOMING DVD RELEASES august 11 17 Again. Zac Efron gets to relive his youth in this derivative comedy.

BY-THE-NUMBERS UGLY For an actress trying to escape her television series image and break out on the big screen, Katherine Heigl has been awfully quick to dive into another romantic comedy. Just three films (all romantic comedies) into her leading-lady status, she’s displayed a decent range. However, in two of the movies she’s played TV producers—not really a stretch for the actress, or a challenge to her major motion picture career. The Ugly Truth gives us Heigl as Abby, a lonely, obsessive-compulsive Sacramento TV producer who collides with her struggling morning show’s desperate new host—an obnoxious, crude and blunt character named Mike (Gerard Butler), whose

The obvious direction of Robert Luketic’s film is to pair up the arrogant host with a boss who loathes him and let the sparks fly. Instead, Abby—a control freak who refers to a checklist for characteristics belonging to her perfect mate—inexplicably turns her love life over to the outspoken Mike in an effort to attract the doctor who has moved in next door.

OPENING SOON august 7

Lively Cinema 10, Downtown Destin, (850) 654-2992 Rave Motion Pictures, Destin Commons, (850) 650-4579

august 14

Gulf Breeze Cinema, Gulf Breeze, (850) 916-9402

Sun Plaza, Mary Esther Blvd., FWB, (850) 244-4252 Twin Cities Cinema, John Sims Pkwy., Niceville, (850) 678-3815 United Artists, Santa Rosa Mall, FWB, (850) 243-2135

Page 36

Bandslam. Battle of the Bands, High School Division. District 9. Producer Peter Jackson returns to his bloody roots with this tale of alien refugees. The Time Traveler’s Wife. Brad Pitt executiveproduced this adaptation of Audrey Niffenegger’s novel. Rachel McAdams and Eric Bana star.

The Beachcomber A ugust 6, 2009 - August 19, 2009

Road Trip: Beer Pong. Nice to see that the slobbo sex comedy hasn’t gone out of style.

August 18

Butler has a funny way with a line and a natural comic ability. At times, the chemistry really works, and you find yourself enjoying the pairing. The film’s highlight is a rendition of When Harry Met Sally’s orgasm scene, here involving electrically

G.I. Joe: The Rise of Cobra. The guy who directed the Mummy flicks applies his heavy hand to the beloved action figure. Julie & Julia. Can Meryl Streep top Dan Aykroyd’s definitive portrayal of Julia Child? A Perfect Getaway. It was the best vacation ever, until…

Grand Theatre, Pier Park, Panama City, (850) 236-2990

I Love You, Man. Paul Rudd goes on a series on “man dates” to find a Best Man for his wedding.

segments promise to dish “the ugly truth” about men and woman, all while offering dating advice from the male perspective.

The Golden Boys. The late great David Carradine is joined by Rip Torn and Bruce Dern in a comedy about three retired sailors attempting to live together. And the early buzz is it’s Mariel Hemingway’s best since Lipstick. Hannah Montana: The Movie. Not to be confused with the other Hannah Montana products currently on the market. Tyson. James Toback’s documentary about the controversial pugilist.

Art Galleries and Antiques A rt galleries artful things Original oils, watercolors and acrylics, as well as prints and note cards by local artists. Art classes, supplies and custom framing available. 1087 John Sims Pkwy., Niceville, (850) 729-2600. www.artfulthings.net. ARTS AND DESIGN SOCIETY Features art shows by local and regional artists. Open afternoons Tuesday through Saturday. Shows change monthly. Art classes and workshops in various media. 17 First Street SE, Fort Walton Beach. (850) 244-1271. www.artsdesignsociety.com Artists at gulf place Original artwork including paintings, sculpture, folk art, watercolors, pottery, photography, jewelry, and metal art by a south Walton cooperative. Stroll the colorful cabanas for a look with something for every budget. Center court in Gulf Place, corner of Hwy 30A and Hwy 393. Mon-Sat 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., (850) 622-0400. boca boutique and galeri Located in Miramar Plaza Shopping Center. Representing the original contemporary art works, art prints and note cards of Eddie Mansfield and wildlife artist Mark Mansfield. A popular boutique where you’ll find the latest in fashion, footwear, jewelry and gifts. Open Mon.-Fri. 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sat. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Contact us at (850) 654-8810 or via our Web site, www.boca-boutique.com. Cara Roy Artworks Florida tropicals, watercolors, posters of all kinds, note cards, original artworks and gift items. 124 Quincy Circle, Seaside, (850) 231‑2535. Eileen west gallery specializes in “outsider” contemporary art. Exhibiting as many as 10 artists who have work in the Smithsonian permanent collection, this gallery provides venues for emerging artists as well. New shows open first Friday of each month. 303 E. Ruskin Place, Seaside, (850) 231-2133. GEANA’S ART GALLERY & CUSTOM FRAMING Located in Miramar Beach. An exciting art gallery and full service frame and mirror shop offering a large selection of local, regional and international artists ranging from local photography to original fine art. Quality and value is second to none. We ship worldwide. (850) 650-0779.

Happy Birthday!

The l2 gallery Located in Seaside’s Ruskin Place Artist Colony, this is a premier showcase for collector quality work from an exclusive stable of renowned American artists. Open daily 10-6, Sundays 12-6 and by appointment. Visit us at www.theL2gallery.com or in person at 123 Quincy Circle, Seaside, (850) 231-1091.

Aug. 6

MATTIE KELLY ART GALLERIES AT NORTHWEST FLORIDA STATE COLLEGE The Arts Center Galleries at Northwest Florida State College in Niceville encompass two galleries showcasing 20 different international, national and regional exhibitions yearly, which are unique to this region. Viewing hours are Monday through Thursday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Sunday, 1-4 p.m. Visit www.mattiekellyartscenter.org or call (850) 729-6044.

Aug. 7

Stan Freberg, comedy great (83) Garrison Keillor, Prairie dog (67) Bruce Dickinson, Iron Maiden frontman (51)

Steve Martin, wild and crazy guy (64) Marcia Gay Harden, Oscar and Tony winning actress (50) Chris Scott, FOTB (N/A)

Aug. 8

Aug. 15

The Studio Gallery This shop is home to the work of more than 25 of the finest artists of the southeast. A unique selection of accessories and home furnishings gathered on buying trips at home and abroad is offered. Located just north of County Hwy 30A on County Hwy 283 (The Grayton Beach Road) in the colorful Shops of Grayton. 26D Logan Lane, Grayton Beach, (850) 231‑3331. Zoo Gallery (3 locations) Fine contemporary American craft gallery including a colorful collection of art, jewelry, and painted furniture. Downtown Grayton Beach, (850) 231‑0777, Market Shops at Sandestin, (850) 837‑9233, Destin Commons, (850) 837-7554.

A N T IQ U E S

Will Estell, Friend of the Beachcomber (N/A) Bill Holdship, rock journalist (N/A) Don Renyer, FOTB (N/A)

Mel Tillis, music legend (77) Don Most, a/k/a Ralph Malph (56) Carrie Schillinger, FOTB (46)

Aug. 9

Ernest Angley, televangelist (88) Melanie Griffith, alleged actress (52) McG, hack filmmaker (41)

Aug. 10

Ronnie Spector, girl group great (66) Kenny Perry, professional golfer (49) Wanda Duke, FOTB (N/A)

Aug. 11

Aug. 13

Philippe Petit, high wire artist (60) Tom Perrotta, novelist (48) Darren Nelson, FOTB (41)

Aug. 14

Cris Judd, actor/dancer/Niceville High alumnus (40) Anthony Anderson, actor (39) Lilia Podkopayeva, Ukranian gymnast (ret.) (31)

Aug. 16

Jan Hansen, FOTB (59) Madonna, schizophrenic (51) Jim Lancaster, FOTB (N/A)

Aug. 17

Robert DeNiro, actor-director (66) Belinda Carlisle, Go-Go (51) Randy Sherwood, saxman extraordinaire (N/A)

Flutterby Antiques, Uniques & Gifts Mon‑Sat. 10‑5. Loads of furniture, primitives, potter y, glass and ceramics, Coca Cola collectibles, old tools, kitchen collectibles, crocks, linens, jewelry and much more! 211 Main Street (just north of the Post Office), Destin. (850) 269‑3200.

Eric Carmen, Raspberry (60) Jones and Company’s Al Alvarado (50) Ben Gibbard of Death Cab for Cutie and Postal Service (33)

Aug. 18

Smith’s Antiques Mall Mon‑Sat 10‑6, Sun. 12‑5, Eclectic is the name of the game at this 25,000 square foot mall. Featuring the wares of 90 vendors offering antiques from around the world. 12500 Hwy 98, Destin, (850) 654‑1484. www.smithantiquesmall.com.

Aug. 12

Pat Metheny, guitar great (55) Sir Mix-a-Lot, big butt aficianado (46) Katya Weikel, FOTB (20)

Aug. 19

James Drennan, FOTB (34) Jan Manley, FOTB (39) Marguerite Richter, FOTB (N/A) Cream’s Ginger Baker (70) Tipper Gore, rock ‘n roll hater (61) Nate Dogg, regulator (40)

Submit your birthday people for Aug. 20-Sept. 2 to [email protected]!

Subscribe Online! www.thebeachcomber.org

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A ugust 6, 2009 - August 19, 2009

The Beachcomber

Page 37

Activities and Outdoors A M U S E M E N T — wAT E R PA R K S

and wrecks for certified divers. Mongoose snorkel or Discover Scuba to jetties for noncertified divers. 301 U.S. 98 East, Destin, (850) 837-2822.

DESTIN HISTORY & FISHING MUSEUM Open year round, Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Call for holiday hours of operation. Admission is $5 for adults, $4 for seniors and military and $3 for children. 108 Stahlman Avenue, Destin, 837-6611.

silent lady This 64’ custom-built luxury schooner is crafted after whaling vessels of yesteryear. Daily sailing adventures are offered four times a day and serving free beer and wine. Call 837-4703 for reservations. 116 Hwy 98E, located behind AJs.

Ebro Greyhound Park Live greyhound racing and simulcasting. Call for schedule. Located at the corner of Rte. 20 and State Road 79, northeast of Panama City. (850) 234‑3943.

Snorkel & Dive with Scubatech Open daily 8-5. A full service scuba and snorkeling facility including retail, rental, air, and nitrox. Instruction offered at all levels. Sea Cobra dive boat to reefs and wrecks for certified divers. Mongoose snorkel or Discover Scuba to jetties for non-certified divers. 304 Hwy 98E, Destin, 837-2822.

EMERALD COAST SCIENCE CENTER A unique museum allowing visitors to touch and use the exhibits, including optical illusions, a nature room and a wind tunnel. 139 Brooks Street, Fort Walton Beach, (850) 664-1261. Gulfarium Florida’s Gulfarium the oldest marine show aquarium in the world offers non-stop family entertainment rain or shine. Located less than one mile east of Brooks Bridge. Log on to www.gulfarium. com or call 243-9046. Indian Temple Mound Museum Artifacts and displays showing the rich Indian history of this area. 139 Hwy. 98SE, FWB, 833‑9595. The Boardwalk and Pier Okaloosa Island, right next door to the Gulfarium. Offering a sweeping view of the gulf without getting sandy or wet, there is ample seating to watch sunsets, plus a variety of restaurants and saloons.

cruises / tours / diving / snorkeling AJ’s Sea Blaster Climb aboard for a cruise searching the Emerald Green waters for the most playful dolphin. This 73-foot passenger boat carries up to 119 passengers and offers an array of family fun. Free beer, wine and soft drinks. 116 Hwy 98, Destin, 837-1166. bimini breeze boat A full service bar cruise vessel that serves free beer, snorkeling trips and dolphin spotting along the Emerald Coast. Mon-Fri 9-11 am & 2-4:30 pm. Adults $27.50, kids 12-5 $8, 4 and under free. 116 Hwy 98 E, Destin, 837-1166. crab island excursions As you cross the Destin Bridge, you will see boats anchored in the bay to spend the day swimming, snorkeling, and playing in the water. Crab Island is three to 10 feet deep, depending on where you anchor. Weekends from 9 am to 5 pm. 18 years and above. Full bar on board, $30, 837-1166. SAIL AWAY aboard a 30 ft Catamaran. Private charter with up to six guests. Sailing, snorkeling, fishing, dolphin excursions, sunset cruises & Crab Island parties. Customize your own trip, from 2 to 8 hours. Departs daily from the Destin Harbor. Captain Licensed and Insured. (850) 376-4757. SCUBA TECH Snorkel and dive with Scuba Tech. Open daily, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. A full-service scuba and snorkeling facility including retail, rental, air and nitrox. Instruction offered at all levels. Sea Cobra dive boat to reefs

SUNQUEST CRUISES welcomes you to dine, dance, and cruise aboard Solaris. Featuring live entertainment and a three course dinner served at your table, Solaris sets the mood for a memorable experience! Visit our website www.sunquestcruises.com. Make reservations online or call 650-2519. Reservations required. sunset cruises Take time to relax cruising the beaches looking for dolphins or watching a beautiful Florida sunset. Mon-Fri 5:30-7:30 pm. Adults $19, Kids 5-12, $8, age 4 and under free. Free beer, wine and soft drinks. 116 Hwy 98 E, Destin, 837-1166.

golf Blue Water Bay Golf Resort Enjoy over 2,000 acres of superb recreational opportunities on a 36‑hole championship Fazio/Pate designed layout located just minutes north of Destin. 897‑3241. Emerald Bay Golf Club Public, 18-hole championship course designed by Bob Cupp. Driving range, putting green, club rental, GPS on carts. 40001 Hwy 98W, Destin. 888-GOLF-BAY or 837-5197. Kelly Plantation 18‑hole championship golf course designed by Fred Couples, meticulously manicured, open to public, clubhouse restaurant, golf shop, outstanding practice facility, GPS, and complimentary chilled apples. Call for tee times. 34851 Hwy. 98W, Destin, 650‑7600 or 1-800-811-6757. Regatta Bay Golf & Country Club This award-winning 18-hole course offers an extraordinary golfing experience for players of all skill levels and was named one of Golf Digest’s Top Places to Play. Equipment rental available. 465 Regatta Bay Blvd., Destin, 337-8080. www.regattabay.com. Santa Rosa Golf & Beach Club Semi‑private, 18‑hole soft spike only course. Driving range, putting green and club rental. 334 Golf Club Dr., Santa Rosa Bch, 267‑2229. Seascape Resort & Beach Club 18-hole golf course with clubhouse, pro shop, putting green, driving range, and Lakeside Grill. 2,000 feet of pristine beach featuring wave runners, parasailing, and the famous Whale’s Tail restaurant and beach bar, Miramar Beach, (850) 654-7888 (PUTT).

health clubs Short

and long term membership health clubs . C all for details .

Destin Yoga by the sea Beach Yoga, Power Flow

Classes & Private Sessions. Enjoy the growing Vinyasa Yoga Journey for five blissful years in Destin. All levels in Harmony. Call Rhonda (850) 897-3788 or visit www.YogaDestin.com. Rosemary Beach fitness center Upscale line of cardiovascular and strength training equipment, individual cardio theaters. Certified personal trainers plus yoga, pilates, tai chi and water aerobics classes in heated pool with adult-only swim times. Day passes and full membership. www. rosemarybeach.com, (850) 278-2200. Yoga-Pilates by the sea Beach/Bay Yoga and Pilates classes. Yoga-Pilates intensives Monday and Wednesday 8:30-9:30 a.m. Yoga-Pilates Flow Challenge Tuesdays and Thursdays 6:15-7:30 a.m. Hot Yoga Tuesdays 5:30-6:30 p.m. Yoga-Pilates Flow 1st and 3rd Satursdays of the month. Visit www. yogapilatesbythesea.com for details and locations or call Arleen Garrett at (850) 499-2324.

OUTDOORS Adventures Unlimited Discover the fun of canoeing, kayaking, tubing, rope course and camping out in tent or cabins available. Experience canoeing unlike anywhere in the world. The spring fed rivers flow at an average depth of two feet over a soft, sandy bottom through Blackwater River State Forest. White sand beaches dot the banks: perfect for swimming, sunning and picnicking. Two hours or three days canoe, tube, kayak.. camp in tents or cabins. We offer family fun as well as team adventures for corporations, weddings, or just a fun weekend. 8974 Tomahawk Landing Road. Milton, Florida. (850) 623-6197. www.adventuresunlimited.com Sand Castles Learn to build fancy sand castles, porpoises, and dragons with Sand Odyssey, or engage us to create a unique piece for your wedding, meeting or event (on the beach or indoors). Call 622-2741 or visit www.sandodyssey.com.

PA R K S & P U B L I C B E AC H AC C E S S Where natural beauty has existed for years, it is no surprise there are a number of parks within easy driving range of Destin and South Walton. Here are a few: Beasley Wayside Park Picnic tables, public beach area, barbecue grills, bathhouse, and restrooms. Gulf side of Okaloosa Island, Hwy. 98W. Blackwater River State Park NW of FWB off Hwy. 90, You can catch sight of lots of wildlife while camping, canoeing, hiking, and fishing. Milton, (850) 983‑5363. Blue Mountain Beach Public parking for this access is located at the south end of CR-83 and Scenic Highway 30‑A. Brackin Wayside Park Gulf side of Okaloosa Island on Hwy. 98W. Facilities include restaurants, saloons, children’s playground, beach volleyball, three beach accesses, showers, public restrooms, and picnic table. Cessna Bay Picnic tables, parking, rest rooms and boat access. 1476 N. CR-393.

Clement E. Taylor City Park This park is named after one of Destin’s early settlers and is on Choctawhatchee Bay. Chock full of shade trees, there are picnic areas and restrooms, but no camping. Destin, off Calhoun Drive. Dune Allen In Dune Allen beach this access has parking, but no bathrooms, showers or picnic area. 5753 Hwy 30‑A W., Santa Rosa Beach. Ed Walline A large public beach access in South Walton, providing handicapped parking, picnic tables, restrooms and showers. Intersection of Hwy 30‑A and CR-393. Eden Gardens State Park An historic homestead under majestic moss draped oaks with a home surrounded by lawns and seasonal gardens. Tours of the home are Thursday through Monday hourly beginning at 10 a.m. with the last tour at 3 p.m. The park and picnic areas are open daily from 8 a.m. to sunset and located on CR-395 north off Hwy 98 in Point Washington. Call 231-4214 for more information. Gulf Shore Manor Public restrooms, handicapped and public parking. 3468 E. Hwy 30‑A , Seagrove Beach. Gulfview Heights Located at the end of Gulfview Heights St, behind Goatfeather ’s restaurant, this access offers parking, picnic areas and restrooms. Grayton Beach State Recreation Area Camping picnics, hiking, swimming, and saltwater fishing, and boating. Showers and electricity are part of the amenities. Access from S. Hwy. 30‑A, South Walton, 231‑4210. Grayton Dunes Handicapped and public parking plus beach access. Behind the Red Bar in Grayton Beach. Henderson Beach State Park This park almost has it all: camping, swimming area sheltered picnic areas, grills, and restrooms. But there is no boat ramp and jet skis and other personal watercraft are prohibited. 17000 Hwy. 98W, Destin, 837‑7550. Inlet Beach This area offers handicapped and public parking, restrooms and dune walkovers to the beach. 438 S. Orange St. in Inlet Beach. Legion Bay Picnic tables, public parking, boat ramp and restrooms. Intersection of Ponce de Leon and Crest Dr, 191 Crest Dr, Sandestin. Marier Memorial Park Public beach area, picnic tables, barbecue grills, boat ramp, restrooms and bathhouse. Bay side of Okaloosa Island, off Santa Rosa Blvd. Miramar Beach Access Parking with public beach access. Scenic Hwy 98 and Driftwood Rd, adjacent to Pompano Joe’s. Topsail Hill State Preserve Two major freshwater coastal dune lakes are located within the 1,600‑acre preserve. Compground entrance and day use entrance are located on West Scenic Highway 30-A, 1/4 mile south of U.S. 98. (850) 267-0299. www.floridastateparks.org/topsailhill

All ponytails, updo's, braids and butterfly clips

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The Beachcomber A ugust 6, 2009 - August 19, 2009

When It Comes to Beach Safety, Make Sure You Know Before You Go!

W

ith the help of “Seemore” The Safety Crab, Walton County is committed to beach safety. We have a flag system that tells surf conditions based on what color safety flag is flying at the beach. So recognize the flags that Seemore is holding and know before you go. We’re making safety a top priority!

WATER CLOSED TO PUBLIC

HIGH HAZARD

(Rough conditions, such as strong surf and/or currents)

MEDIUM HAZARD (Light surf and/or currents) LOW HAZARD (Calm conditions) MARINE PEST PRESENT

(Jellyfish, stingrays and dangerous fish)

850-267-1216 w w w. S e e m o re S a fe t y C r a b. c o m

Know the Facts About Rip Current • Stay out of the water or swim with caution when the flags indicate unsafe conditions.

TM

• Don’t panic or swim against the current. • Swim parallel to shore until you are out of the current (which is rarely more than 30 feet wide). • If you can’t escape, float or tread water. Lifeguarded beaches are available from mid-March through September, 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. at designated public beach accesses including Inlet, Santa Clara, Van Ness Butler Jr., Blue Mountain Beach, Gulf View Heights, Ed Walline, Dune Allen and Miramar.



A ugust 6, 2009 - August 19, 2009

The Beachcomber

Page 39

D INE ...D ANCE ...C RUISE

C OME ABOARD FOR AN E VENING L IKE N O O THER Imagine combining your favorite restaurants, your favorite bands, your most memorable celebrations and romantic moments. Now imagine experiencing it all aboard a cruise that starts with a sunset and leaves you dancing in the moonlight. Step out of your imagination and onboard “Solaris” the area’s only dining and entertainment yacht and experience an evening like no other.

Rhythm & Hues Smooth Jazz Cruise Sunday 8/30 5 to 8 Live Jazz Artist Sidney Carter will paint during this cruise Hors d oeuvres Cash Bar $55 per person

For Information and Reservations 850 ▪ 650 ▪ 2519 WWW.SUNQUESTCRUISES.COM Located at Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort