Publisher’s Letter

Family in its many forms, both blood and soul, both given and chosen—what a special theme for this issue. While I write this letter, I am filled with both a warm heart and a few tears for those who are…

My father taught me to love nature. As far back as I can remember, he educated my family on every animal species we encountered, planned camping vacations for us, and shared stories about the importance of preservation. He taught us…

It’s been said that life is measured not by the breaths we take, but the moments that take our breath away. I would argue that the legacy we leave—the breathtaking moments we’ve gifted to others—multiplies the value of a life…

In our first 2026 issue of Emerald Coast Magazine, I am writing this letter to you, our loyal readers and supporters, with optimism for the year to come and a huge sense of gratitude of what has been.  Talking with…

Growing up in Salt Lake City, Utah, I can remember the excitement of the 2002 Winter Olympics being held in my hometown. The location decision took place seven years prior, after many failed attempts. The city’s developmental preparation for the…

As a kid, I remember August being the time of the year we would begin preparing to have a successful school year—purchasing items such as Trapper Keepers (’80s and ’90s kids know what I’m talking about), pens, paper, folders, and…

If I ever find myself judging someone or something, I use that as an opportunity to look within myself and question why I had that thought rather than act on it.   A negative judgment implies that I think I…

I am a lover of the arts. One of my favorite things about the Emerald Coast is how much the area supports and attracts local artists. Alongside the natural beauty of Northwest Florida’s Gulf coast, our arts scene is part…

A local’s experience sheds light on the No. 1 cause of death in U.S.—preventative measures can help

As Greek philosopher Heraclitus once said, “The only constant in life is change.” But if change is constant, why is it so often met with resistance as an instinctual human reaction? In the last few months, my colleagues and I…