Premier fundraising organization, Destin Charity Wine Auction Foundation (DCWAF), recently donated $3.4 million to 16 children’s charities in Northwest Florida. To date, DCWAF has donated more than $31 million help to children in need in Northwest Florida since its inception in 2005. The 2023 recipients of Destin Charity Wine Auction Foundation funds include: AMIkids Emerald Coast received $125,000 to fund a GED program for at risk students between the ages of 16 – 24. Ascension Sacred Heart Emerald Coast received $200,000 to fund a new CT scanner to help diagnose and accurately treat pediatric patients in the emergency department. Boys & Girls Clubs of the Emerald Coast received $200,000 to allow 285 students from low-income or single-parent households to attend programming for one full year. Children in Crisis received $200,000 to fund the facilitation of housing for abused, neglected, and abandoned children. Children’s Volunteer Health Network received $250,000 to fund and serve underinsured and uninsured children in need of dental care—including dental supplies for the Mobile Clinic. Ellison McCraney Ingram Foundation received $200,000 to fund scholarships for teens that have received help from at least one DCWAF charity partner in their lifetime. Emerald Coast Autism Center received $315,000 to support the ECAC Phase II Learning Center Capital Campaign which will provide a new building for teens entering the Transition to Work program and in turn allow the Autism Center more space on their primary campus to serve young children on the spectrum in need of behavioral therapy.  Emerald Coast Children’s... Read More

Spanning a remarkable 42-year history, Fudpucker’s Beachside Bar & Grill is a treasure trove of stories. Whether it’s stories of love at first sight, exuberant nights spent dancing with lifelong friends, celebrations that turned into marriage proposals, or even the heartbreaking episodes that accompany life’s twists and turns—everyone has a Fudpucker’s story to tell. Long-time residents, vacationers, and even passersby in the Emerald Coast area are likely to share a memorable experience connected to this iconic location. My Story My own Fudpucker’s journey began back in 1992 and it still continues to unfold today. For those who recall the vibrant ‘90s, Fudpucker’s was the go-to spot for electrifying late-night escapades. Both The Big Deck and the Down Under Bar teemed with activity; the drinks were potent, the atmosphere electric, and the company always enjoyable.Fudpucker’s was the epicenter for events, hosting everything from sizzling bikini contests to unbeatable “$2 Anything” drink specials. Top-tier bands like Miss Demeanor and Black Eyed Blonde often graced the stage. In a twist of fate that still warms my heart, it was at Fudpucker’s where I had my first date with the woman who would become my wife—a marriage that’s been going strong for a quarter-century. Our family’s legacy with Fudpucker’s has come full circle; all my children had their first jobs there, and I’ve proudly been part of the Fudpucker’s team for nine seasons myself. The Gulf Coast’s Story Over its 42-year existence, Fudpucker’s has woven itself into the very fabric of the Gulf Coast community. Starting... Read More

Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa, an all-encompassing resort located along Northwest Florida’s emerald coast, has announced a $35M property refresh. Comprised of three separate phases, the renovations kicked off with a complete room redesign, set to be completed and available for bookings later this year. The hotel’s full property-wide renovation is set to conclude prior to spring break of 2024.     “Our team recognizes the importance of enhancing our property and onsite amenities to reflect current trends and guest expectations,” said Angelina Covington, general manager of Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa. “Updating the look and feel of the resort while continuing to provide the same great services and accommodations we have gained the reputation of providing for almost forty years, will further elevate the Hilton Sandestin Beach experience.”  The renovations began with an overhaul of the different room categories to offer visitors a coastal beachfront home-away-from-home. The first stage in this two-year refresh started in the winter of 2022, the new accommodations will enhance stays for guests of all ages with a bunkbed enclave, making family getaways more comfortable and accessible. Advanced features such as motion-censored lighting underneath beds, upgraded charging stations throughout the room or suite, and elevated vanity stations with deluxe lighting have been implemented to create a more enjoyable stay.   Building upon the resort’s already tranquil aesthetic, the remodel enriches the brightness in each guest room with a warmer set of blues and crisp white for contrast. The 590 total rooms and suites are modified... Read More