OLD DESTIN Through the Eyes of A Child, the book

"BLAST FROM THE PAST" Book Event for "Old Destin Through the Eyes of a Child" coming March 8 at Fishing Museum

2012-02-28T10:03:00.004-08:00

(DESTIN) All are Welcome! We are planning a "BLAST FROM THE PAST" Meet the Author Book Event at the Destin History and Fishing Museum on Thursday, March 8, 4 pm! Bring your already purchased books in for signing and have some refreshments while checking out the fascinating exhibits at no charge. Drawings and gifts for kids! The adventures of "Bennie" in "Old Destin Through the eyes of a Child" and brand new release devotional "4 o'clock in the morning In a Sleepy Fishing Village Called Destin," will be available. Capt. Ben and family looks forward to seeing you!

It brings back cherished memories. The photographs alone are worth owning the book

2012-02-25T14:35:00.001-08:00

‎"Old Destin Through the Eyes of Child," Capt. Ben Marler's first book, set the standard so high, I was truly amazed at the next huge leap in his second book, "4 O'clock in the Morning." The daily devotions are so well organized and thought out. It was difficult for me to put the book down. The photographs alone are worth owning the book. If you enjoy history, particularly the history of old Florida, you can't help but be delighted! It brings back cherished memories. It's rare to find a book about fishing and the fisherman's life written in such an outstanding way. If I had only one word to describe this book it would be awesome. I cherish it! Well done, Capt. Ben! And thank you for the recipes! Jacquelyne K. Aparicio, NC

New Old Destin Companion Book by Capt. Ben Marler

2012-02-14T06:44:00.000-08:00

4 o'clock in the morning, by Capt. Ben Marler: Fresh As a Sea Breeze Approaches for Sharing Jesus...: ‎"Fresh as a sea breeze, 366 daily devotions with approaches to sharing the Gospel from a master Fisherman, Boat Captain, and self-styled E...

GIVE OLD DESTIN TO LOVED ONES FOR VALENTINE'S DAY

2012-01-26T09:41:00.000-08:00

(DESTIN) Quick, who do you love? What would be the perfect gift for someone male or female? Wife, husband, boyfriend, girlfriend, brother, sister, uncle, aunt, cousin, boss, client, grandparent, child, newborn?
Even your Sweetheart, with a big box of chocolates. Read it together.
Warm their hearts with the nostalgia for the town where they grew up, or have discovered more recently. They will all love the antics of Bennie who gives his candid impressions of a remote paradise in this fully illustrated treasure. For $16, You can give a first printing, signed, collector's item they will appreciate and enjoy. Order yours signed at http://olddestin.blogspot.com or on amazon.com (will not be signed). Also Available at Walgreen's near Target, the Destin History and Fishing Museum, Bayview RV Campground, Ships Chandler, and in Ft. Walton at Magnolia Grill by Brooks Bridge and at Mary's Kitchen in Downtown Station.//

Need some OLD DESTIN Kindling from Old Destin for your warm Christmas hearth?

2011-12-21T16:13:00.000-08:00

(DESTIN, DECEMBER 21, 2011) Tonight by 1:00 a.m. Amazon.com will launch the New Kindle version of "Old Destin Through the eyes of a Child," by Capt. Ben Marler, JUST IN TIME FOR LAST MINUTE CHRISTMAS GIVING. The $6.99 price includes the ability to share your download with another person, too!

SURPRISE SHIPMENT OF OLD DESTIN ARRIVED IN TIME FOR CHRISTMAS GIVING AT WALGREENS, MUSEUM

2011-12-17T15:53:00.000-08:00

SURPRISE SHIPMENT ARRIVED: 64 copies of OLD DESTIN THROUGH THE EYES OF A CHILD ARRIVED TODAY. 36 must still be on the way. The books weren't supposed to arrive until the 27th. Obviously these were some extras the publisher had in stock. I'll make any one a great deal on three or more copies between now and Christmas, $40 for 3 saves $8. $75 for 6 saves $13. All the profits are for helping folks in need. If you need time to pay it, ask. I's a win, win and win. Just let me know...MERRY CHRISTMAS EVERYONE!..Capt. Ben Marler. Call 850-837-6313 Customer Service or visit Walgreen's near Target in Destin, The Ship's Chandler, The Destin History and Fishing Museum, Bayview RV Campground, and in Ft. Walton, Magnolia Grill or Mary's Kitchen. You can order at these prices online here at olddestin.blogspot.com. (We will refund part of the purchase price.)
(Pictured: Destin Fishing and History Museum and Walgreens near Target, in Destin. Get your signed copy here while quantities last.)

ONLY 10 DAYS TIL CHRISTMAS Order Old Destin Through the Eyes of a Child, from Capt. Ben Here

2011-12-13T10:59:00.000-08:00

Santa's feet starting to hurt? Let your computer do the shopping and order as many autographed copies of Old Destin Through the Eyes of a Child, by Capt. Ben Marler, as you like, through his blogspot ordering site. All credit cards and debit cards accepted through Paypal, or you may send a personal check. Capt. Ben will check his list, and personalize each one according to your instructions, AND ship them separately or all to one address for your convenience, with second day USPS Priority Shipping. Imagine the delight each recipient will have when they realize your thoughtfulness. Give someone the unique gift of Old Destin under their tree this year. The perfect nostalgic gift for someone who has everything. Young and Old alike will love the adventures of "Bennie." As a bonus, all profits go directly toward the purchase of food for the hungry. ISBN # 9781461098553. 250 pages, with rare and never before seen photos. Family recipes, uncommon fishing tips that still work, Destin Christmas memories, American, WWII, and Florida history, wrapped up with warmth, humor, patriotism and faith. $16.00. ($21.15 with tax and shipping). Ask about multiple ordering discounts.

CELEBRATE CHRISTMAS IN OLD DESTIN

2011-12-03T16:44:00.000-08:00

Celebrate Christmas in Old Destin: Give the gift that keeps on giving
December 02, 2011 10:55 AM
Pam Griffin

(THE DESTIN LOG) For Christmas this year, give the gift of Destin. Old Destin, that is.

Capt. Ben Marler’s popular book, “Old Destin Through the Eyes of a Child”, gives young and old alike a look at life in early Destin, while helping those less fortunate, not only during the holiday season but also year round.

“The book is an excellent read according to those who've read it in all age groups,” Marler, one of Destin’s most memorable captains and evangelists, told The Log. “Everybody that's spoken to me about it has told me so. Some have said they read it straight through, not being able to put it down. It's also a great gift, for the profits are used as a gift. It's a win, win, win proposition. It's a book that I believe many will pass down to family members who care about Destin.”

Marler currently has more than 100 cases of canned goods on hand and a limited amount of cash for the upcoming holiday season.

“The book hasn't generated enough money for large cash gifts, perhaps one day it can,” he said. “I follow the leading of the Holy Spirit in determining whom to assist. So far I've been successful in reaching them, or I sure hope so.”

The book is available at Walgreens next to Target, The Destin History & Fishing Museum, The Ships Chandler, Bayview Campground, The UPS Store and The Magnolia Grill and Mary's Kitchen, both in Fort Walton Beach. Or visit http://olddestin.blogspot.com or email captben61@gmail.com.

“I'm also available for those locally,” Marler told The Log. “The price is a very reasonable $16 plus 96 cent tax. For anyone wanting a large quantity I'll make them a good deal. The profits go to help those in need who live locally or those from here who are desperate.”

With more than 100rare or never before seen photos of life in old Destin and stories about a time when life was simple, you will want to spend a day in the past with the founding fathers and the fishermen who made Destin what it is today.//

(PHOTO CAPTION: BENNIE'S FIRST WHEELS: “My folks sacrificed a lot to make my Christmas super each year,” Capt. Ben Marler said. “As children, theirs wasn't much on ‘stuff' but very abundant in love. Mine was both.")

4 o'clock in the morning, a new book by Capt. Ben Marler reveals what makes him "tick" as an Evangelist

2011-11-18T15:27:00.001-08:00

CAPT. BEN MARLER of Destin, Florida, is an expert fisherman, and "fisher of men." From 1963 - 1999 operating Her Majesty and Her Highness, Her Majesty II, and Emmanuel, all 100-120 passenger party vessels, he taught more than half million people how to fish in his famous morning fishing lesson. He also spent many years studying the Word of God and putting it into immediate action. He still arises at 4 o'clock in the morning to study 4 chapters from his bible and to submit himself to God according to Ephesians 2:10, his favorite scripture. This book, an evangelist's log, was born from his daily facebook messages over the past year. Like instant coffee, 4 o'clock in the morning, contains devotions for active Christians, who want to "hit the ground running" the race set before them. Prepare ye the way and prepare ye the day, ready to share Jesus. Capt. Ben urges you: Don't delay for the fields are white with harvest. A word to the wise: it is wise to win souls. Taking literally the commandment to go out into the world and make disciples of all men, Capt. Ben will teach you the secrets of how he lives an exciting life, sharing Jesus! Go forth into the world and share the gospel, and fulfill the Savior's words: "Ye Shall Be My Witnesses." And, it's important to use the right bait, as Jesus did. He promised us at the start, "Come Follow Me, and I Will Make You Fishers of Men." And as He promised again, "And I Will Be With You, Even Unto the Ends of the Age." What could be more exciting than that! >

EBAY LISTS OLD DESTIN in Christmas Quantities of 1, 5 or 10 books

2011-11-14T12:53:00.001-08:00

(DESTIN) Is your inner Santa looking for a gift to please everyone on your list? Check out newly listed Ebay lots of OLD DESTIN Through the eyes of a Child, by Capt. Ben Marler. Lots of 5 books for $80 and 10 books for $160 plus only $4.95 Priority Mail shipping in one box to one address. ALL BOOKS COME WITH FREE AUTOGRAPHING/PERSONALIZATION UNLESS OTHERWISE INSTRUCTED. Good to know: Paypal is offering a buy it now and pay later (June!!) for purchases of at least $99. All credit cards accepted. Profits from book sales go to The Old Destin Fund which provides canned goods and other assistance to folks hurting this season and throughout the year. Let someone find the joy of an Old Destin Christmas under their tree this year. Phone orders accepted at CUSTOMER SERVICE, 850-837-6313. You will be invoiced by email for credit/debit cards (Paypal) or you may send a personal check to: CAPT. BEN MARLER BOOKS SALES, 3857 Indian Trail, unit #502, Destin, FL 32541.

LET SOMEONE FIND OLD DESTIN UNDER THEIR CHRISTMAS TREE THIS YEAR

2011-11-10T10:52:00.000-08:00

(DESTIN) The bestselling new book, "Old Destin Through the eyes of a Child" by Capt. Ben Marler is offered as the ideal Christmas gift for those who love reminiscing. Adventurous "Bennie" will tell you all about life in Destin in the good old days when the town was omitted from road maps. Seemingly only the Air Force, the hardy fishermen, and the superabundant fish knew about the place that so many treasure today. $16.00 with over 100+ photos, 250 pgs. Profits from book sales go to the Old Destin Fund which provides assistance to families who are hurting. Give a gift of nostalgia for the Yuletide this year, especially to the veterans and active duty military who long to be home for Christmas..

This book is available online at http://olddestin.blogspot.com , Destin Walgreens, the Destin Fishing and History Museum, Bayview RV Campground, Mary's Kitchen and Magnolia Grill in Ft. Walton, Barnes and Nobles, Books a Million, and Amazon.com. A Kindle edition will be forthcoming by Christmas.

First Flights in Old Destin, Florida

2011-09-12T12:10:00.000-07:00

Photos: from the chapter "Sandy Strips and Airports, Dumps and Cessnas" (chapter 4)

WWII and the newly created Eglin Air Force Base and Destin's first tiny air field seemed to have ushered in the age of commercial flight for Destin. The first privately owned airplane belonged to a boat captain and his dad. Read all about it and the military connection in Old Destin Through the Eyes of a Child, the book, by Captain Ben Marler. Also war history buffs will enjoy chapter 27, The Doolittle Raiders and the Marathon, which will buzz you back...to 1942.

I can't wait to grow up to write my first book... Maybe I'll learn to drive, first

2011-09-09T17:33:00.000-07:00

"I wonder if this is how Aunt Stella got started...If I can just figure out how to get it out of granny low."

(Page 156, chapter on "The Maltezos"
)

OLD DESTIN Through the Eyes of A Child, the book: Read a Sample Chapter from OLD DESTIN Through the ...

2011-09-09T14:01:00.000-07:00

OLD DESTIN Through the Eyes of A Child, the book: Read a Sample Chapter from OLD DESTIN Through the ...: WHEN GOD SPOKE TO MY DAD When my dad was only 21, he captained a small fishing vessel owned by one of the fishing companies in Pensacola. ...

OLD DESTIN Through the Eyes of A Child, the book: Booksigning Event Coming to Walgreens in Destin, n...

2011-09-06T05:34:00.000-07:00

OLD DESTIN Through the Eyes of A Child, the book: Booksigning Event Coming to Walgreens in Destin, n...: (DESTIN) Capt. Ben Marler will be on hand to sign copies of his new book, Old Destin Through the eyes of a Child, at our local Destin Wal...

Booksigning Event Coming to Walgreens in Destin, near Target

2011-09-06T05:21:00.000-07:00

(DESTIN) Capt. Ben Marler will be on hand to sign copies of his new book, Old Destin Through the eyes of a Child, at our local Destin Walgreen's (near Target.) Date and time to be announced.
Signed copies of the book are already selling like hotcakes at the Photo Department, so get yours today and return for the future event to meet Capt. Ben!
He says he feels at home at Walgreens since he was employed at a Tallahassee Walgreens near the FSU campus to support his wife, Joan and baby girl, Athena.
Come share great memories of Destin.

BRING MONEY. See ya at Bass Pro Shop! Just kidding

2011-08-25T13:04:00.000-07:00

BRING MONEY. See ya at Bass Pro Shop! Just kidding. (Capt. Ben Marler's booksigning at Bass Pro Shop THIS SATURDAY at 10:30 am till?

Please let Capt. Ben know you will be there for the booksigning at Bass Pro Shop this Saturday

2011-08-24T15:30:00.000-07:00

THREE DAYS to meet Capt.Ben in a native habitat (ie, surrounded by sporting goods! ha)
It will thrill his heart if you come.
//

CAPT. BEN MARLER TO HOLD BOOK SIGNING AT BASS PRO SHOP THIS SATURDAY

2011-08-22T16:38:00.000-07:00

　
Subj: CAPT. BEN MARLER TO HOLD BOOK SIGNING AT BASS PRO SHOP THIS SATURDAY
　

For Immediate Release,

　

(DESTIN) Capt. Ben Marler, author of the new bestselling book "Old Destin Through the Eyes of a Child," will appear at Bass Pro Shop this Saturday to sign copies of his biographical book about the early fishing methods and history of the town named by his grandfather and first postmaster, William T. Marler. Indians, the building of Destin's first bridge by boat captains, World War II topics, including capturing German spies from U-boats, and colorful characters and daiy life prior to the building of the first Destin bridge. A preview sample chapter is available at http://olddestin.blogspot.com. The event will be held starting at 10:30 a.m. inside the store.

Card in Cataloging Information:

A small boy named Bennie, the grandson of it's first Postmaster and second man to come to Destin, William T. Marler, reminisces of

his wonderful childhood growing up as the child of a young captain in a remote fishing village, before it grew into the resort tourist mecca it is today. Rich with WWII references and fishing knowledge, it paints a colorful, humorous portrait of post-Depression life in Northwest Florida. 249 pages, 100+ photos. ISBN-10# 1461098556

　

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Link to the Book Website for Pre-Publication Orders: http://olddestin.blogspot.com

Link to Amazon.com book page:

Wholesale Orders at 850-837-6313 or olddestin@gmail.com

Link to the Destin History and Fishing Museum: www.destinhistoryandfishingmuseum.org

facebook/ Ben Marler

email: captben61@gmail.com

Read a sample chapter: olddestin.blogspot.com/

Follow Capt. Ben on twitter/captben61

Published by: Athena Creamer, Heiress Arts Publishers, 2730 State Avenue, Destin, FL 32405

(850) 785-2252, heiressarts@gmail.com

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Nice Catch at Destin's Bass Pro Shop- Old Destin, Through the eyes of a Child, the book

2011-08-19T11:18:00.000-07:00

NICE CATCH! Dave Miller caught Dad's book on Old Destin in front of his own framed photo, at the Bass Pro Shop in the Commons! Such huge Warsaws he caught with Capt. Steve Haeusler on his boat First Light. He also holds a long time world record. Destinites sure know how to make History! Thanks to all the area fisherman who purchase the book and help locals in the community through the Old Destin Fund Charity. Bass Pro Shop will host a booksigning event on Saturday, August 27th. Save the Date!

EBAY LISTING ENDING IN 8 HOURS FOR CAPT. BEN'S NEW BOOK

2011-08-03T11:32:00.001-07:00

Bid for fun on Ebay in the next 8 hours to win a brand new, signed and dedicated book. The starting bid is $4.50, plus $5.10 one day shipping by Priority Mail. Capt. Ben really does ship them himself. Profits go to the Old Destin Fund Charity.

THANK A FISHERMAN TODAY

2011-07-30T11:56:00.000-07:00

https://www.facebook.com/notes/athena-marler-creamer/thank-a-fisherman-today/253861191308121

Dad sold 10 copies of his book this morning to boat captains who gave an extra donation for the OLD DESTIN FUND. I must say that the boat captains in Destin are true princes, and embody the spirit and soul of Destin. They have always been there to help one another and others in times of disaster. Like the farmers of the sea they are, by necessity they are some of the the most God-fearing and prayerful people in the City. God bless them all. Their very faith brings a blessing upon Destin. Thank a fisherman today and remember that Jesus once called fishermen to become His "fishers of men."

UNCOMMON FISHING METHODS THAT STILL WORK IN NEW BOOK ON OLD DESTIN

2011-07-28T10:36:00.001-07:00

UNCOMMON FISHING METHODS THAT STILL WORK IN NEW BOOK ON OLD DESTIN
What was fishing like before shore power, shore water, GPS, fishfinders, weather reports, radio, radar and electricity? Read Old Destin Through the Eyes of a Child, by Capt. Ben Marler. Discover unbelievable bounties from the Gulf of Mexico and uncommon fishing methods that still work! Listen to Capt. Ben Marler who taught 100s of thousands of people how to fish on big party boats from the 60's until 1999. A fun read for all ages. ISBN: 10-1461098556. Available on Amazon.com Read an exciting sample chapter on olddestin.blogspot.com!
By: Athena Marler Creamer

They're Giving Away the Store!

2011-07-28T08:40:00.000-07:00

(Destin, Florida) Amazon.com launches a "Search Inside This Book" application for Old Destin Through the Eyes of a Child, by Capt. Ben Marler. Ha, they're practically giving away the store! Just Kidding. Read a bunch of it for FREE! Hope you'll order it, too!

New Ebay Listings for Wholesale and Bidding Fun to Benefit Old Destin Fund

2011-07-26T07:49:00.001-07:00

NOW OLD DESTIN Through the Eyes of a Child is available to stores and other organizations at wholesale price based on lots of ten (10) "signed" books. To order through Ebay, go to this link: http://www.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fcgi.ebay.com%2Fws%2FeBayISAPI.dll%3FViewItem%26item%3D200634486946%23ht_1009wt_937&h=-AQBDM_Yg International Shipping is offered. Credit cards accepted.
Orders are also accepted by Capt. Ben Marler Book Sales Customer Service at 850-837-6313. Checks accepted.
Another Ebay listing offers a single copy signed book by auction and pay it now options. Have fun and bid--it's for charity! The Old Destin Fund helps people in the community of Destin in the charitable spirit of its city fathers.

The Destin Log: A New Book Visits Old Destin

2011-07-23T18:16:00.000-07:00

http://www.thedestinlog.com/articles/visits-18445-book-destin.html

More OLD DESTIN: Possible Sequel Book by Capt. Ben Marler

2011-07-20T10:19:00.000-07:00

"A funny thing was always happening at the dock, growing up in Destin. I truly loved Old Destin,' remembers Capt. Ben Marler. ' I have vivid memories of our family members, neighbors, customers and crewmen."

Even after publishing his first book this month, "OLD DESTIN Through the eyes of a Child," the Lord is still reminding him of people and stories he needed to add. He is considering writing an expanded version, or perhaps a whole new book altogether. He's praying about it because it is the Lord's work. Many enthusiasitc readers are telling him how much they enjoyed the book and, not being able to put it down, finished it in one sitting, reordering copies for him to autograph as gifts. Jurate Kutkis Burns, the Director of the Destin Library, explains, "Ben Marler's book is full of wonderful stories. He makes our local history come alive!."

During his 20 years behind the wheel, and for 36 years before that as business manager of his dad's company, Capt. Ben Marler's Boat Service, it was a 'marathon life', serving people. "Many of my days started at 4 a.m. and lasted 17 hours. His famous early morning fishing lesson, which had a strong evangelistic theme from Genesis 1, helped him master the art of storytelling. "We literally spoke with at least two hundred thousand people at the docks over the years." His father before him was a great storyteller, and was known for being someone who loved to talk and if you were down would always leave you laughing and feeling better about things."

My Dad taught me business principles and concepts that I never heard from my professors at FSU where I was a graduate of Business Management. He said, "Son, never make money, instead make customers. It was a philosophy that I held closely all my life." Ben Marler, Sr.'s father, William T. Marler,
was the second man to come to Destin and was a servant leader in the community.

"Operating a party fishing boat business is not without it's perils, many I spared myself from writing about in this book. But, I do share some from my Dad's life. Some scary, life-threatening events occured, but God was always with him. Like the Navy hymn, He is Eternal Father "strong to save," and He proved that mightily to my Dad in the preface of the book, OLD DESTIN Through the eyes of a Child. As Capt. Ben points out, "I wouldn't be here otherwise."

Neither would much of Destin's flavorful early history, it seems.

Capt. Ben Marler is using his profits from book sales for charitable giving.

(OLD DESTIN Through the Eyes of Child, by Capt. Ben Marler, Heiress Arts Publishers, Destin, Florida. (ISBN-10: 1461098556 ) is available directly from Capt. Ben Marler at olddestin.blogspot.com, and on Amazon.com and Createspace Direct. $16.00 US/$16 Can. Signed copies may be picked up at Bayview RV Campground, 749 Beach Drive. For future book tour details, see olddestin.blogspot.com or follow captben61 on twitter.)

Local Local History Comes Alive in New Book about Old Destin

2011-07-18T19:12:00.000-07:00

"Ben Marler's book is full of great stories. He makes our local history come alive!" says
Jurate Kutkis Burns, Director of the Destin Library.

A LETTER FROM OUR SENATOR, DON GAETZ

2011-07-15T09:26:00.000-07:00

SENATOR DON GAETZ

July 12, 2011

Captain Ben Marler, Jr.
C/O Ms. Athena M. Creamer
2730 State Avenue
Panama City, Florida 32405-4324

Dear Captain Marler,

Congratulations!

As I was reading the Destin Log recently, I noticed a great article and
picture about the publication of your book Old Destin Through the Eyes of a
Child. Your life sounds fascinating and the effort and dedication that you put
into writing this book are extraordinary. I wish you much success. I thought
you might like to have a copy, so a clipping is enclosed.
Your achievements are an inspiration to others and I want you to know
how proud I am of you. Keep up the good work and please let me know if!
can be of service.
Thank you for the privilege of being your Senator.

With warm best wishes,

Respectfully,

Senator Don Gaetz

Wonderful meeting so many at the booksigning

2011-07-14T10:08:00.001-07:00

Thank you to everyone who came out to meet Capt. Ben yesterday at the Destin History and Fishing Museum. As a result, we've sold out of the first books, but more will be available on Monday, July 18. Please place your order now online and your copy will be rushed to you, signed, upon delivery. We also have some autographed books available at Bayview RV Campground, 749 Beach Drive, Destin, located across from the city boat launch on Joe's Bayou. In addition, Capt. Ben can be available to appear to sell books to help support with donations at your next charitable event. Profits are used to help people in our community. Please call him at 850-837-6313. Phone orders are also available, or email Capt. Ben at captben61@gmail.com.

YOU MEAN IT'S TODAY?

2011-07-13T04:37:00.000-07:00

Come out to see us! Destin History and Fishing Museum, 108 Stalman Avenue across from the fire station behind Whataburger.

See you at 1938....errr, I mean 4 p.m.

MEET CAPTAIN BEN AT THE DESTIN HISTORY AND FISHING MUSEUM TOMORROW!

2011-07-12T12:38:00.000-07:00

Mrs. Urb's first grade class, Destin, Florida

My Hero, Poochie

2011-07-10T12:34:00.000-07:00

MEET CAPTAIN BEN AT THE DESTIN HISTORY AND FISHING MUSEUM ON JULY 13

2011-07-07T06:06:00.000-07:00

　

　

　

(DESTIN) Capt. Ben Marler, grandson of William T. Marler, launches a new autobiographal and cultural history book about Destin. "Old Destin Through the Eyes of a Child," published locally and soon to be available at www.Amazon.com.

Autographed books are now available for purchase at http://olddestin.blogspot.com, which includes a preview sample chapter and storefront.

　

The first "Meet the Local Author Event" for the new book will be held July 13, Wednesday, 4:00 - 6:00 p.m. Admission is free and all are invited. Children are welcome. Door prizes and refreshments will be available.

Destin History and Fishing Museum is located on Highway 98 east of the Destin Community Center and across the street from the Fire Department at 108 Stahlman Avenue, Destin.

For more information, contact Kathy Marler Blue at the Destin History and Fishing Museum at (850) 837-6611

Card in Cataloging Information:

A small boy named Benny, the grandson of it's first Postmaster and second man to come to Destin, William T. Marler, reminisces of his wonderful childhood growing up as the child of a young captain in a remote fishing village, before it grew into the resort tourist mecca it is today. Rich with WWII references and fishing knowledge, it paints a colorful, humorous portrait of post-Depression life in Northwest Florida. 249 pages, 100+ photos. ISBN-10# 1461098556

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Link to the Book Website for Pre-Publication Orders: http://olddestin.blogspot.com

Link to Amazon.com book page: TBA

Link to Createspace Direct for wholesale orders

Link to the Museum: www.destinhistoryandfishingmuseum.org

facebook/ Ben Marler

email: captben61@gmail.com

Read a sample chapter: olddestin.blogspot.com/

Follow Capt. Ben on twitter/captben61

Published by: Athena Creamer, Heiress Arts Publishers, 2730 State Avenue, Destin, FL 32405

(850) 785-2252, heiressarts@gmail.com

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Read a Sample Chapter from OLD DESTIN Through the Eyes of a Child, by Capt. Ben Marler, Destin, Florida

2011-06-28T12:09:00.000-07:00

WHEN GOD SPOKE TO MY DAD

When my dad was only 21, he captained a small fishing vessel owned by one of the fishing companies in Pensacola. It was only about 35 feet long, but built for heavy weather fishing. Like all the others in their fleet, it was wind powered by a single sail.
To move the boat from the pier to open water where the sail could be raised, a small motor had been installed. It was only large enough for this purpose, not for later where it could be credited in saving my dad's life. When daddy re-told this story he always repeated the sounds it made when running. He said it sounded like "chug, chug, chug.” It only had one cylinder, making it simple and reliable. It may have produced about 5-7 horse power, which wasn't much for a heavily built boat like this one.
The story begins when he and his small crew had sailed some miles from shore, off what is now known as Sandestin. The bottom there was filled with rocks, holes and best of all, lots of really fine red snapper and grouper.
One night the weather seemed to worsen by the hour. They didn't know if it was simply "bad weather" or what, but now it was really getting to be almost too much for them. When the waves suddenly began to crash over the boat, it was obvious that they were in a terrible storm and they needed to go home. The rocking violence of the waves helped to dislodge the anchor from the bottom and when it was re-secured, my dad instinctively pointed the bow to the north.
All he had for navigation was a compass and a sounding lead but he knew which way to head the boat towards land. He sent one man down below to crank the engine and to keep adding fuel to its small fuel tank. The other crew members were soon tied to the mast, like we've seen in movies where rough waters were sweeping some of the sailors overboard. There wasn't a way in the world to raise the sail, for the explosive wind would have instantly ripped it away. They were being furiously battered by what they believed was a hurricane.
To understand the seriousness of their situation, consider the facts that first of all, no one knew exactly where they were. Second, there were no USCG vessels or aircraft to seek them out and rescue them like we have today. And finally, their position placed them between Pensacola and Panama City, each having an entrance from the Gulf large enough for ships to pass, but each one was about 50 miles away. My dad felt his only hope was to somehow make it close enough to land so that the men could dive overboard and swim to shore on their own. Now to top it off, they didn't have anything resembling a life jacket on board. Had they entered the water, all of them would have surely drowned.
Only God knew what He was going to do, and He kept it a secret for a long time. The storm stayed upon them during the night and into dawn, and it raged on, as only one can. When daylight finally arrived, it was an incredible scene that would have brought most folks to despair, but not my dad. He'd been praying from the beginning, and he knew God had heard him. When nightfall came, he was doing his best to keep the bow headed to the north, the small engine still chugging away down below. I wouldn't have wanted to be the man who kept it going and that's for sure.
All during the following night the storm forces beat around them, until what my dad called "the wee hours of the morning" when God spoke to him. What the Lord said to him would have shaken me. He said, "Turn the boat around.” I would have answered, Lord, please, let me keep going for surely we're getting near shore now. But not my dad. With a courage instilled in him by the Lord, he obeyed and for hours, he kept doing his best to keep the boat's bow headed out to sea.
When daylight finally came, it was clear that they were near shore for the wind and waves had been continually sweeping them along. As the vessel crested on a wave, one of the men cried out, "Destin Pass.” God had brought the small vessel to the entrance of our narrow and shallow pass, and with the tide headed into the bay. All my dad had to do was swing the bow around and enter the safety of what's now called Destin harbor.
My mom told me that folks had gathered to watch, kneeling, crying and praying, after a small girl had spotted their bobbing mast just offshore. It was a miracle they were safe and with very little damage to the boat. I was told by Captain Jewel Melvin that dad's boat had hit bottom while crossing the shallow bar at the entrance, causing it to leak some, but that was it.
The greatest result to come from this storm was my dad's enduring love for God. From the moment they sailed in from the storm, no man loved the Lord more than him.
Now to add to the story, let's remember he married my mom in 1935, three years later. Then, it took him two years to convince her to have another child. In 1938, God made me and brought me into the world, something that wouldn't have happened if my dad hadn't listened and obeyed Him. Let's also remember just how physically exhausted he and his crew were at the time. They hadn't eaten anything, for they were too busy just hanging on to the vessel trying to survive, as the waves washed over them. It was a terrifying experience for all of them, but one that God used to mold my dad into the most wonderful Christian I've ever met.
Afterwards, my dad became a giver like his dad, my grandpa Marler. When something was needed at the church, he would volunteer to get it, even when he didn't have the money. My mom would often ask him after he returned from one of the meetings where they were planning the church building, "What did you promise this time." After he told her, she would say, "But, we don't have the money, Ben.” His reply was always the same, "I know, but the Lord will help me to make it." And He always did.
When my dad left for Heaven, he had two 100-passenger vessels at the dock, with another one under construction in Biloxi. The stores he built on the highway were going strong. He used to say, "I'm glad I can give people work." Thank you Lord for saving my dad and his crew. I want to serve You as much as I can, like he and my mom.

FUN FOR ALL AGES

2011-06-15T11:52:00.000-07:00

STEP ABOARD with Capt. Ben Marler for a fun and memorable "deep sea fishing voyage" to Destin, Florida's past, and find out what it was really like to grow up in a remote paradise when things were nothing as easy as today. Pick up some uncommon fishing methods that still work. And what made daily faith so important? Come along as his "kids and grandkids" for an awesome experience that will enhance your life, no matter your age. Fascinating historical stories, from local Indians' evidence to capturing WWII German submarine spies right offshore, and sharing a meal with the Doolittle Raiders. Never before seen photographs and secret family recipes from the cupboards of Capt. Ben's Mom and Dad. A treasure for Destin.

How Destin Changed

2011-06-14T16:47:00.000-07:00

Once, Destin Florida's fishing boats were painstakingly handmade, built in captain's back yards, their primitive engines pieced together from automobile motors. Unbelievably plentiful schools of fish "fathomed out" and snared in seines. Fishing grounds then could be found by nothing more than dead reckoning, timed by a wind up watch, a compass, and the clouds and shore trees. A quiet life began in this particular spot, before the Civil War. But, in 1934, Destin was building a bridge, future WWII pilots were in training, and less than a handful of hardworking fishermen were feeding multitudes of civilians from a tiny fishing village known as Destin. Life was not easy, but it was satisfying and adventurous.
Cut off from mass communications with the rest of the world with nothing but a bridge and not a single telephone or electric light, Destin managed to grow from a remote paradise to a resort area which attracts millions of visitors from all around the world.
One of Destin's foremost and memorable captains, a fish-catcher and evangelist, opens his families' most cherished albums to share pages from Destin's history in the previous century, with photos dating back to 1900.
Capt. Ben seats us around his knees like grandchildren to retell the stories, impressions, and descriptions of a small boy's everyday life in Destin, Florida, actually, its' only boy born there in 1938.
Part Tom Sawyer, Part Leave it To Beaver, with a touch of Old Glory and deep reverence for God, Old Destin Through the Eyes of a Child will be a certain welcome addition to museums and school libraries as well as to those armchair history buffs who can't get enough of Florida's rich history or Destin, Florida. 245 pages. 100 Photos.
Available at Amazon.com. Publisher's List Price $16.00. ISBN-10: 1461098556 ISBN-13: 978-1461098553