Independent News | December 26, 2014 | Volume 15 | Number 51 | inweekly.net
FREE â–ś
winners & losers
outtakes
4
cover story
buzz
5
7
6
I was without insurance for 10 years.
health & wellness 13
22
a&e
publisher Rick Outzen
art director Samantha Crooke
editor & creative director Joani Delezen
contributing writers Jessica Forbes, Hana Frenette, Jason Leger, Jennifer Leigh, Sarah
15
McCartan, Chuck Shepherd contact us info@inweekly.net
calendar 16
Independent News is published by Inweekly Media, Inc., P.O. Box 12082, Pensacola, FL 32591. (850)438-8115. All materials published in Independent News are copyrighted. Š 2014 Inweekly Media, Inc. All rights reserved.
inweekly.net
—Non–invasive —No cutting, no needles, no downtime —FDA approved & clinically proven
—Advanced cooling technology that targets fat bulges —See changes in as quickly as 3 weeks —On average patients see a 20% reduction of fat in the treated area
8333 N. Davis Highway | Pensacola, FL 1337 Country Club Road | Gulf Breeze, FL
850.474.8386 KevinWelchMD.com MCCdermatology.com
Kevin Welch, M.D.
Board Certified Dermatologist Voted Best of the Coast Skin Care 2008– 2012
RETIREMENT IS JUST AROUND THE CORNER. AND IT’S REALLY HARD TO SEE AROUND CORNERS. Here’s the curious thing about change, we’ll evolve your plan along retirement. Given its enormous with them. So when it’s time to turn size, it has the surprising ability to the corner toward retirement, there sneak up on people. One aren’t too many surprises. minute, it’s 25 years down It’s time to find out what a the road. The next, you’ve Raymond James financial reached the corner of advisor can do for you. “Now what?” and “Where LIFE WELL PLANNED. to?” and you’re left facing complexities and Seeing what lies ahead questions you’ve never is a matter of preparation. faced before. We can And in some cases, magnification. help you find answers. Our rigorously disciplined, longterm approach to individualized financial planning means we’ll work to build a sustainable income plan, so you can do all the next things you want to do. And should your needs
Bob Alft - Wealth Advisor Bob Beargie - Wealth Advisor
400 W. Garden St. | Pensacola, FL 32534 850-479-9601 | TrustYourPlan.com Securities offered through Raymond James Financial Services, Inc., member FINRA/SIPC, and are not insured by FDIC, NCUA, any other government agency or any other financial institution insurance, are not deposits or obligations of the financial institution, are not guaranteed by the financial institution, and are subject to risks, including the possible loss of principal. Raymond James is not affiliated with the financial institution or the investment center. ©2013 Raymond James Financial Services, Inc., member FINRA/SIPC. Raymond James® and LIFE WELL PLANNED® are registered trademarks of Raymond James Financial, Inc. 13-BDMKT-1093 KA 4/13
December 26, 2014
3
438-9647 liberislaw.com
winners & losers
212 West Intendencia St. Pensacola, FL 32502 13700 Perdido Key Dr., Suite 223 Pensacola, FL 32507 BUSINESS LAW •Contracts & Commercial Transactions •Mergers & Acquisitions •Business Litigation
REAL ESTATE LAW •Condominium and Association Law
•Subdivisions, Planned Unit Developments, Resorts & Marinas •Construction and Mold Litigation •Foreclosure & Foreclosure Defense •Real Estate & Construction Litigation
ESTATE PLANNING •Wealth Planning & Asset Protection
Finally, the Winners & Losers department of the Inweekly news and entertainment empire got into the holiday spirit. They wanted everyone to end 2014 with happy thoughts, so they brought forward another all-winners edition of the paper’s most popular column.
CLAY INGRAM The Greater Pensacola
•Wills & Trusts •Probate Litigation •Offshore Trusts & LLCs
INSURANCE DISPUTES •Commercial & Residential Claims
•Hurricane, Fire, Flood & Other Property Losses •Denial of Insurance Coverage •Personal Injury Litigation •Workers’ Compensation
850.438.9647 or 888.230.9916 toll free • www.liberislaw.com 212 W. Intendencia Street, Pensacola, FL 32502 13700 Perdido Key Drive, #233, Pensacola, FL 32507
Chamber Board of Directors has announced that Ingram has been elected to serve as the Chamber's new president and CEO. He will oversee all operational aspects of the chamber. Ingram currently serves as a member of the Florida House of Representatives and has been named chair of the Transportation and Economic Development Appropriations Subcommittee. He begins his new role on Jan. 5, 2015.
SANDY SANSING The Pensacola car
dealer and the Sansing Family donated $100,000 to Manna Food Pantries. The money will enable Manna to rebuild after April's flood and continue to help the hungry in Escambia and Santa Rosa counties. This past year, Manna provided food to 32,868 people, including 11,740 children in need, and distributed nearly 900,000 pounds of food.
WILLIE SPEARS The former Escambia
{
HEAR FOR THE
}
High football coach has traded in his coaching whistle for a microphone, moving from the sidelines to the television screen. Spears will be hosting a new BlabTV morning show with Carly Borden, a Pensacola native and recent University of Florida graduate. The new morning show is part of BlabTV’s new programming initiative.
FLORIDA PANHANDLE Fodor’s Travel chose the Florida Panhandle as a 2015
Don’t miss a single minute
must-see destination and included our area in its 2015 Go List of the top 25 places to visit next year. The highly anticipated list spans six continents and includes destinations for every type of trip—from natural wonders in Iceland to colonial cities in Vietnam.
CHARLES D. THORNTON, SR.
The Pensacola Branch of the NAACP elected Thornton its president. He will assume office on Jan. 1, 2015 during the annual Emancipation Proclamation Celebration at Houser Memorial AME Church. His goal is to closely integrate the activities of the NAACP to match the needs, concerns and challenges currently facing the community. He will help the Pensacola Branch increase its visibility, responsibility and accountability within the community.
DOWNTOWN IMPROVEMENT BOARD To provide convenience and encourage holiday shoppers to visit Downtown Pensacola, the DIB made all surface lots and parking meters free of charge from Dec. 22 through Dec. 26.
UWF FACULTY The University of West Florida Board of Trustees unanimously voted to ratify the 2014-17 Collective Bargaining Agreement during its quarterly meeting. This followed 16 months of negotiations between UWF and faculty members represented by the United Faculty of Florida.
of the festive sounds of the holidays [ABC Hearing] wants you to hear it all this holiday season... We are committed to finding the right hearing solution for everyone who walks through our door. During your visit, you will learn the latest information about your hearing health, as well as get answers to all your questions. We are proud to be your local provider of Unitron hearing instruments, and we think you’ll be amazed by the remarkable technology advances and how they can help you.
Take the next step to better hearing. Call to schedule your free hearing consultation today!
wants you to hear it all this holiday season...
FREE
15% OFF
Disclaimer goes here.
Offer expires Month 00, 2014
Take the next step to better hearing. Call to schedule your hearing consultation today! All Unitron Hearing Instruments
Hearing Consultation
113 Palafox Pl Across from Saenger Theatre LOGO 44
5585 Stewart St Milton, Florida
Address line 1
850-983-8999 City, ST 12345
000-000-0000
Appointments are limited! Call today! [000-000-0000]
Hearing aids do not restore natural hearing. Experiences may differ based on severity of hearing loss and the ability to adapt to amplification. * Hearing screening is not a medical exam. Screening is to determine if you are a candidate for a hearing aid. 2983 © 2014 Unitron
inweekly.net
outtakes
by Rick Outzen
ON THE CUSP We are nearing the halfway mark of the second decade of the 21st century. The first half of the last decade, we struggled to overcome three hurricanes, a real estate downturn and corruption that removed four county commissioners. The city of Pensacola and Emerald Coast Utilities Authority launched in the second half ambitious public works projects. The Pensacola International Airport launched a $105 million renovation and expansion. City voters approved a referendum for the Community Maritime Park. ECUA spent $320 million to shut down its Main Street plant and build the Central Water Reclamation Facility. In last four years, the city, county and Greater Pensacola Chamber have gone through upheavals. The city of Pensacola has a strong mayor who begins his second term searching for city administrator, city attorney, airport director and fire chief. Escambia County has had three county administrators, Bob McLaughlin, Randy Oliver and Jack Brown, and two interim administrators, George Touart and Larry Newsom. The chamber has gone through a complete overhaul and recently hired a new CEO, State Rep. Clay Ingram. Despite the instability of all three entities, the local economy has shown a rebirth. The private sector has stepped up and followed the early investments made by our local govern-
ment. Navy Federal Credit Union has announced plans to employ 10,000 over the next 10 years. Rishy and Quint Studer have taken the dead northern corners of Palafox and Main streets and created the SoGo retail district. Bobby Switzer has bought the block that houses the Blount Building, Global Grill, New York Nick’s and Dollarhide's Music Center. His redevelopment plans could rival what the Studers have done. The next five years will depend on the city of Pensacola, Escambia County and the chamber getting their acts together. The city and county must build the infrastructure for the next wave of private investments. The Local Option Sales Tax revenue and the promised RESTORE millions need to be spent wisely. The chamber has to make sure that the next wave of prosperity is enjoyed by all segments of the community, not just a few. Average wages need to improve. The jobs created must be filled by locals, which means job training is paramount. The bickering, grandstanding and pettiness that have marked past Pensacola City Council and Board of County Commission meetings needs to end. Transparency and ethical behavior need to become the hallmarks of how our leaders govern. If not, we will look back on the next five years and wonder how do we let this golden opportunity slip yet again through our fingers.
The bickering, grandstanding and pettiness that have marked past Pensacola City Council and Board of County Commission meetings needs to end.
—Creative Organic Vegan Cuisine, Coffee & Catering—
Thinking of selling your home? Call today for a comparable market analysis of your home. With approx. 22 years of experience, we are ready to assist you with your real estate needs! •Lot - Old Chemstrand Rd. - $30,000 zoned VR-2 across from entrance to Solutia Golf Course - wooded. •Lot - Downtown Old East Hill - $65,000 - Preservation District - cleared corner lot. •Lot - Lost Key Plantation - Golf Course lot - near Lost Key Golf Club House. Gated Community. •Commercial Property - 921 North Palafox - subject to lease - $499,000
SEVILLE SQUARE REALTY, LLC Cheryl Young Licensed Real Estate Broker
308 E. Government St. • Pensacola, Florida 32502
(850) 712-4742
www.cherylyoung.com • cayoungrealtor@aol.com
Licensed in Florida & Alabama
Practicing Since 1974 INJURED? (ALL TYPES OF ACCIDENTS)
ARRESTED? (ALL FEDERAL & STATE COURTS)
WHITE COLLAR CRIMES (HEALTH-CARE FRAUD • DRUG OFFENSES & D.U.I.s)
FREE CONSULTATION ON INJURY / DEATH CASES & CRIMINAL CASES NO RECOVERY - NO FEE / COST ON PERSONAL INJURY & WRONGFUL DEATH CASES
Now Featuring: Cooking Classes Once A Month Sunday Brunch with champagne specials —Thursday 3 Course Gourmet Dinner Menu changes weekly — Plus Daily Specials
610 E. Wright St. | 429-0336 | eotlcafe.com December 26, 2014
24 HOUR SERVICE
433-9922
304 E. GOVERNMENT STREET 5
Community Maritime Park / photo by aerophoto.com
SORRY MOMS The Community Maritime
Park Associates Board rejected at its Dec. 17 meeting a proposal from Quint Studer for two parcels at the maritime park. Last month, Studer Community Investments responded to a Request for Proposals for parcels at the park. The company was the only one who proposed specific plans for the available sites. SCI asked to develop Parcel 3 and Parcel 9, the two smallest available sites immediately adjacent to the stadium. The plan for Parcel 3 was to locate a childcare center on the first floor and a sports museum on the second. Parcel 9 would have been a training facility for the Wahoos. SCI agreed to pay lease fees immediately, not waiting for the buildings to be completed. Proposed annual rent for Parcel 3 would total $20,633. For Parcel 9, SCI proposed annual rent of $31,610. Both parcels would have an automatic 7 percent increase every five years. Board member John Merting wanted the board to give conceptual approval to the SCI proposal so that he could include it in his negotiations with the Studers on signage and naming rights at the park. The board rejected his motion. A few board members were vocal in their opposition to SCI building a childcare center at the park. Ann Hill said that daycare facilities don’t generate any taxes. She said, “We need taxes generated at the park.” Alexis Bolin agreed. She said that daycare and an exercise facility are not part of a park concept. “It’s not what we need,” she said. “We need retail space and maybe some living space above, or a hotel with retail.” 66
The CMPA could still accept the SCI proposal in January when it will also hear a presentation from a south Florida company seeking to be the master developer, but the board doesn’t appear to have much of an appetite for the SCI plans. As the Studers did with the YMCA, it may be best to withdraw their offers and find other locations for his projects.
SOUR GRAPES GENE In late October, Commissioner Gene Valentino mailed an ethics complaint on his county letterhead to the Florida Ethics Commission. In the rambling, 15-page complaint against his nemesis, Sheriff David Morgan, Valentino alleged, “Simply stated, he has affected my duties to legislate and govern the 300,000 citizens I represent in Escambia County.” The commissioner complained that State Attorney Bill Eddins did not prosecute the sheriff over a July 2011 voice message that Valentino said was threatening and intimidating. He asserted that sheriff’s office employees used county equipment while working on county time to produce a commercial for his opponent, Doug Underhill. He wrote that one of his loyal supporters was arrested after putting on a fundraiser for the commissioner. Valentino said “undercover deputies in unmarked cars” followed him. He claimed the sheriff campaigned for Underhill in uniform and carrying his gun. Valentino wrote, “…there was no option but to vote for my opponent or else.” He was also upset that the Escambia County Sheriff’s Office refused his request to fly its U.S. flag at half-mast when former County Administrator George Touart died.
The Florida Ethics Commission received the Valentino epistle on Oct. 27. The commission has yet to determine whether the allegations are legally sufficient to warrant an investigation. Valentino leaked the complaint to the media last week.
NEW TOOL NEEDED FOR SENTENCING Florida Taxwatch, a nonpartisan, nonprofit public policy research group, issued recently its annual recommendations on how Governor Rick Scott and the Florida Legislature can save taxpayers billions of dollars. “This year, the 2015 Government Efficiency Recommendations report proposes new and innovative ways for the state to save taxpayer dollars and improve efficiency in service delivery,” said John R. Alexander, Chairman of the TaxWatch Center for Government Efficiency Advisory Board. “It is crucial for Florida lawmakers to continue to implement previous recommendations that are still relevant but not yet complete, while also adopting new recommendations to improve taxpayer value.” Florida TaxWatch made several recommendations regarding the state’s criminal justice system. The Florida Department of Corrections housed 100,942 inmates as of June 30, 2014, and the population is expected to grow 2.5 percent by FY 2018-19. According to the report, the growing corrections population costs taxpayers over $2 billion annually. The research group recommended the creation of a risk/needs assessment tool for judges to access offense/offender-specific cost and recidivism estimates and develop more appropriate sentencing options best targeted to individual offenders and reduce the overall prison population over time. Two decades after Congress passed the Violent Crime Control and Law Enforcement Act of 1994, lawmakers have focused on harsher mandatory sentences that locked up more offenders for longer periods. Florida’s imprisonment rate has climbed 31 percent and crime has declined 54 percent since then. With the implementation of “tough-oncrime” approaches to offenders, beginning with Florida’s 1983 Sentencing Guidelines,
“Florida can responsibly reduce the prison population while maintaining public safety by adjusting sentencing restrictions and embracing alternative sentencing methods that reduce recidivism by targeting individual offender risks, needs and characteristics.” Florida TaxWatch
judges have faced increasingly narrowing discretion in sentencing options, as well as pressure to put offenders away for less serious crimes and for longer periods of time in situations where they do retain discretion. TaxWatch sees the need for a tool to guide sentencing toward an effective treatment by assessing criminogenic needs and the other factors such as low self-control, substance abuse, antisocial attitudes and criminal thinking. “Florida can responsibly reduce the prison population while maintaining public safety by adjusting sentencing restrictions and embracing alternative sentencing methods that reduce recidivism by targeting individual offender risks, needs and characteristics,” said TaxWatch. “Every 1 percent reduction in recidivism represents 400 fewer inmates admitted over a three-year period and savings of approximately $8 million.”
NO RECOVERY FOR PAYCHECKS
Escambia County’s average wages have been flat over the past 10 years. Don’t feel bad— Santa Rosa County is down 3.3 percent for the period from 2004 through 2013. According a recent report by The Wall Street Journal, a third of all U.S. counties have seen their pay decline when the figures are adjusted for inflation. Florida has faired worse than most of the nation. Three out of four Florida counties suffered wage declines in that period. Only 17 counties reported average wage gains. In Northwest Florida, Escambia County had a .01 percent decrease, dropping from $38,196 in 2004 to $38,146 last year. Santa Rosa fell from $34,244 to $33,117. Only Okaloosa County had an increase in annual pay, jumping from $38,431 in 2004 to $40,207 in 2013—a 4.6 percent jump.
NEW RATS ANNOUNCED The Council on Aging of West Florida recently held a cocktail reception at Jackson's Steakhouse to thank supporters and announce its 2015 “Rat Pack.” The brainchild of Dee Dee Davis, “The Rat Pack” reunions have been highly successful fundraisers. The initial “Rat” was attorney Fred Levin. Since then, Quint Studer, Terri Levin, Mike Papantonio, Corbett Davis and others have been honored and roasted. The 2014 honorees were Larry “Moose” Morris, Jack Nobles, Tom Pace, Jr. and Jim Rigsbee. The Council on Aging of West Florida CEO John Clark announced the 2015 "Rats" are McGuire Martin, Collier Merrill, Charlie Switzer, and County Commissioner Lumon May. {in} inweekly.net
A Look Back At Everything From Local News To Pop Culture December 26, 2014
7
Top Local News Stories of 2014 by Rick Outzen
Election years usually provide plenty of fodder for newspapers. This past year was no exception locally, but the headlines didn’t stop there. We also dealt with explosions, floods, snow storms, grand juries, pollution and other events that drew national attention. Here are my picks for the top 10 local news stories for 2014:
WEATHER
Most years, the weather stories that make headlines in our area involve either heat or hurricanes. In 2014, we dealt with snow and ice in January and unprecedented rainstorms in April. A mixture of freezing rain, sleet, and snow swept across most of the Panhandle between the afternoon of Jan. 28 and morning of Jan. 29. Due to dangerous ice accumulation, the Pensacola International Airport, parts of I-10 and numerous bridges were closed. The city of Pensacola caught national media attention for its homeless ordinances that banned blankets in city parks. Three months later, the area was hit what has been described by some as a “200-year rain event.” On April 29 and 30, a cold front moved slowly over Pensacola dropping 15 to 21 inches of rainfall in 24 hours. More than 3,200 homes were damaged in the subsequent flooding, with 1,687 of those receiving major damage from more than 12 inches of water, according to news reports. Another 1,518 homes received 12 inches or less. Thirteen homes were completely destroyed. Large sections of Scenic Highway were washed into Escambia Bay. The county reported 28 roads and bridges closed. Stormwater mitigation and flood prevention will receive a great deal of attention from Pensacola and Escambia officials for the next few years.
JAIL EXPLOSION
On April 30, about a half-hour before midnight, the Central Booking and Detention Facility (CBD), which housed an estimated 595 inmates, exploded. Two inmates housed in a holding cell on the first floor in the booking area died. The blast injured approximately 11 correctional officers and 162 inmates. The building was a total loss with an estimated value of $45 million, the largest non-hurricane related loss in the history of Escambia County. Despite the national attention on the disaster, county officials weren’t forthcoming with many facts. Initially the public was told 88
that there were no reports of gas leaks before the explosion and only two feet of water leaked into the basement area. However prisoners and their families had very different stories, claiming the CBD was plagued with odors of natural gases throughout the day and that several people complained of headaches and nausea. An independent investigation by attorney Ed Fleming that was commissioned by the county determined the blast was caused by natural gas dryers in the basement that broke away from their connections when the area flooded. The odors were from a nearby propane tank. He concluded county staff had acted properly. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives report that wasn’t released until November determined the odor was natural gas and the county failed to contact Pensacola Energy to inspect the facility. Lawyers for prisoners are lining up to sue the county for “deliberate indifference.” Meanwhile, the county needs to decide where it will build a new jail.
on renewing the permit for a construction and debris landfill owned by Waste Management on nearby Longleaf Drive. Wedgewood families used that opportunity to make their case for the commission to do something about the Rolling Hills C&D Recycling Center, where the mound of debris sits. Commissioner Lumon May and State Rep. Mike Hill partnered to bring in the Florida Department of Environmental Protection to tour with the media and health officials all the landfills in the Wedgewood area. On July 31, DEP revoked the permit for the Rolling Hills Construction and Demolition Debris Disposal Facility and said that it will file a lawsuit against the owner, South Palafox Properties, LLC. The Notice of Revocation cited the facility for violations of surface water quality standards, particularly high concentrations of iron, copper, lead, nickel, zinc and mercury. Rolling Hills was also cited for objectionable odors, disposal of unauthorized waste and for operating outside its permitted dimensions. Rolling Hills has appealed the revocation. A judge is expected to render his decision in February 2015.
The headlines didn’t stop there. We also dealt with explosions, floods, snow storms, grand juries, pollution and other events that drew national attention.
WEDGEWOOD AREA LANDFILLS
The residents of Wedgewood were tired of being sick. They were tired of seeing their loved ones die of cancer, renal failure and other illnesses. They were tired of living under the shadow of a 130-foot mound of debris with its dust and stench that permeate the neighborhood. Those emotions bubbled to the surface on June 3 during a public forum at an Escambia County Commission meeting. The board was scheduled to hold a public forum
HIRING JACK BROWN
The Escambia Board of County Commissioners voted on April 10 to name Jack Brown, the county administrator for Taylor County, its new county administrator. The vote ended a 17-month struggle to replace Randy Oliver. Oliver was ousted in October 2012 in a coup led by Commissioners Gene Valen-
tino and Wilson Robertson with the help of lame duck Commissioner Kevin White who brought back George Touart to county government. Touart was supposed only to hold the position for a few months to gain his state retirement benefits, but lingered on as interim for over a year until his health failed. When Touart resigned, Robertson, Valentino and many for the power brokers quickly switched their allegiances to Assistant County Administrator Larry Newsom. However, Newsom had never applied for the position and was not included in the selection process. The selection committee delivered five finalists to the county commission in alphabetical order: Brown, Ted Lakey, Albert Penska, Bill Reynolds and John Weaver. Each was interviewed separately by the commissioners and publicly. Brown was selected with the votes of Commissioners Grover Robinson, Steven Barry and Lumon May. The vote was later changed to include Robertson and Valentino voting with the majority to make the vote unanimous. Brown began work on June 9.
CRIME LAB BREACH
On Feb. 4, agents with the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, working with the Escambia County Sheriff’s Office, arrested former Pensacola crime laboratory chemist Joseph Graves on charges of grand theft, tampering with or fabricating physical evidence and trafficking in illegal drugs. Graves had worked nearly 2,600 cases for 80 law enforcement agencies spanning 35 counties and 12 judicial circuits since coming to Pensacola in December 2005. Law enforcement investigators had found that prescription pills seized during arrests were either missing or had been switched with over-the-counter medications. They believed that Graves had tampered with the evidence when it came to the lab for analysis. All of the cases handled by Graves had to be reviewed for possible tampering. Upon Graves’ arrest, FDLE Commissioner Gerald Bailey said, “The actions of Joseph Graves are disgraceful. FDLE is working with State Attorneys’ Offices statewide to ensure he is held accountable for his action.” FDLE had made the arrest after an investigation in January into missing prescription pain pills from the evidence room at the Escambia County Sheriff’s Office. The actual discovery is the largest breach in the chain of custody of evidence in Florida history. inweekly.net
Since the breach was discovered, cases around the state have been dropped. The most recent was that of Herchel Royals, who had been arrested on drug charges in July 2013. Judge Edward Nickinson dismissed the case against Royals on the grounds that physical evidence necessary to the case had disappeared while in the custody of the state. Graves’ trial is scheduled for August 2015.
UNDERHILL UPSETS VALENTINO
On Aug. 26, newcomer Doug Underhill upset two-term incumbent Gene Valentino in the Republican primary for Escambia County Commission District 2, 2,788 to 1,672. Valentino’s political luck had finally run out. In 2006, he slipped past Edwin Roberts, winning the primary by a mere five votes. Four years later, he edged out Karen Sindel in a fourcandidate primary, which included former State Rep. Dave Murzin and former County Administrator George Touart, by 152 votes. Those who Valentino had attacked while county commission chairman—Sheriff David Morgan, hoteliers and Perdido Key residents—banded together to support Underhill, a contractor for the U.S. Department of Homeland Security who also serves as executive officer of the information warfare unit at the Navy Reserve Information Operations Command at Corry Station. Morgan had been a favorite target for Valentino, who supported Morgan’s opponent John Powell in 2012. He constantly battled the sheriff over his budget and engineered the takeover of the county jail. The hotel industry was frustrated over the commissioner’s lack of support for its efforts to move tourism marketing out of the Greater Pensacola Chamber. Perdido Key residents were upset over Valentino’s efforts to fourlane Perdido Key Drive and bring casino gaming to the county. Underhill went on to defeat Democrat Deb Moore in the November general election.
NAVY FEDERAL CREDIT UNION EXPANSION
Several job announcements were made in 2014. The ones at the Pensacola International Airport and Port of Pensacola were mere regurgitations of announcements made the prior year. By far, the biggest ones were from Navy Federal Credit Union. In May, Navy Federal announced 2,000 new jobs at its Beulah campus. On Oct. 29, the credit union committed to an additional 5,000 employees, bringing its total employment eventually to 10,000. Though the incentive agreement with Escambia County gives them until 2026 to hire the personnel, Navy Federal President and Chief Executive Officer Cutler Dawson said he expected to hit the mark much sooner. December 26, 2014
With 2,000 new jobs already announced in May and about 3,800 current employees in Pensacola, Navy Federal expects to have more than 10,000 employees in the Pensacola area by 2020, and local officials are anticipating the need for new schools and wider roadways because of the growth in the area. Once both expansion phases are complete, Navy Federal expects its annual payroll to increase from $160 million to $425 million. Needless to say, Navy Federal Credit Union was named in 2014 as one of the Best Companies to Work For in Florida for the sixth consecutive year by Florida Trend magazine.
STATE GRAND JURY
Federal and state grand juries drew headlines in 2014. In October, State Attorney Bill Eddins convened a grand jury to review the April 30 explosion of the Central Booking and Detention Center. On Nov. 20, he released its findings and recommendations. The grand jury returned a No True Bill finding, having determined there was insufficient evidence to establish any criminal charges. Based on the ATF report and direct testimonies it heard, the grand jury determined the fatal blast was a natural gas explosion sparked in the basement area that had been flooded by unprecedented rainfall. Jail employees and prisoners complained of a natural gas odor throughout day of the blast, but no one notified Pensacola Energy. The jail and CBD had been under the control of the Board of County Commissioners since October 2013. The grand jury made six recommendations. The most controversial one belied the county’s position that it was running the jail better than Sheriff Morgan. The grand jury recommended: “That the Central Booking and Detention Center, as well as the main jail, be returned to the supervision of the Sheriff of Escambia County. We believe that this provides for the most efficient operation of these facilities.” As of yet, no discussions have been held between Sheriff David Morgan and the BCC on the future supervision of the jail.
FEDERAL GRAND JURY
On Aug. 15, the city of Pensacola received a subpoena from the U.S. Attorney’s office that requested city documents be presented to a federal grand jury convened on Sept. 3 in Tallahassee. Individual subpoenas were also issued to city staff. The subpoena asked for information on the Main Street Rehabilitation Project; on the city’s investment requests; on agreements with Jerry Pate Design; on the Mayor Ashton Hayward’s decision to use an
insurance broker; and on the expenses of former Chief of Staff John Asmar and Mayor Hayward, including requests for reimbursement for travel. The media reported City of Pensacola Finance Director and Interim City Administrator Dick Barker, Director of Public Works Derek Owens, Maritime Park Executive Director Ed Spears, Director of Purchasing George Maiberger and Risk Manager Jim Owens received subpoenas. Mayor Hayward told the daily newspaper that the federal investigation concerned possible bribery involving city officials. He denied any wrongdoing within his administration. The mayor told Inweekly, “Sixty days out of the election, we get this grand jury investigation. I think that was very unexpected obviously. We’ve always tried to do the right thing at City Hall and we’ve had some great people work here in four years. We went above and beyond to be transparent.” There has been no other news of additional subpoenas or any announcements from the U.S. District Attorney’s Office on the investigation.
Local Passings
ESCAMBIA HIGH FOOTBALL SCANDAL
Wayne Adams (1953-2014)
High school football coaches recruit players in Escambia County. Most often coaches ignore it. In the case of revived powerhouse Escambia High, the school district chose to investigate. That investigation led to the firing of popular EHS coach Willie Spears and seven players being declared ineligible. On Sept. 12, School Superintendent Malcolm Thomas released the Florida High School Athletic Association’s (FHSAA) ruling on his investigation of Escambia High School’s football program. Based on the district’s report, the association determined that recruiting violations occurred. Seven players were declared ineligible for football. FHSAA fined the school $14,100. It also placed Escambia High on restrictive and administrative probations. Thomas also recommended to the School Board that head football coach Willie Spears be fired. The community came out in huge numbers to voice their support for the coach, asking that he be kept as a teacher, even if he were to lose his coaching position. The superintendent refused to listen to the pleas and requests of his school board and an overflow crowd of Escambia High student, teachers and parents, as well as ministers, civil rights leaders and representatives from the teachers’ union. Board members Gerald Boone and Linda Moultrie voted against the recommendation. Recently, BLAB-TV announced that Spears will co-host its new morning show that debuts in 2015.
Molly Martin Part of any annual reflection is noting the passing of individuals who touched the lives of a great number of people through their work, art or a combination thereof. The following is a list of just a few of the people whose deaths made headlines in 2014 and put their contributions in the spotlight once again.
Founder of Adams Homes, one of the largest homebuilders in the Southeast. Headquartered in Gulf Breeze, at the height of the real estate boom, Adams employed over 500 people and built subdivisions throughout Florida, Alabama, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee and Georgia.
Reubin Askew (1928-2014)
Florida Governor from 1971-1979 and a founding partner of the Levin law firm. During an era of progressive Southern governors, Askew lead the way for both Jimmy Carter and Bill Clinton to be elected president. He was named one of the "Top 50 Floridians of the 20th Century" for his "tax reform, racial justice and honesty in government.”
Ralph “Skeeter” Carson (1928-2014) Built the University of West Florida tennis program serving as the school’s first men’s and women’s coach beginning in 1981. In 17 seasons, Carson's teams combined for a 666285 record, four NAIA national champions, two Rolex champions, along with four Arthur Ashe award winners. He was a two-time NAIA national coach of the year. Bill Griffith (1925-2014)
The Westinghouse executive served on the Santa Rosa Island Authority as chairman and board member for 14 years where he helped shape the Pensacola Beach we have today. Griffith served on numerous bank boards and engineering firm boards and was a former President of The Florida Chamber of Commerce as well as The Committee of 100. 9
Steve Hill (1954-2014)
On Father's Day 1995, he preached a sermon at Brownsville Assembly of God in Pensacola that ignited a revival. The Brownsville Revival became the longest running church revival in American history to date, drawing a cumulative attendance of over four million people from more than 150 countries.
George Touart (1948-2014)
Eileen Ford, Co-Founder of Ford Models
Rod Kendig (1940-2014)
The County Administrator helped Escambia County recover from hurricanes Ivan and Dennis. Within days of starting the job in 2002, four of the county commissioners were removed from office. Touart almost singlehandedly set the course for the county for the last decade. He returned to serve as interim administrator from 2012 until right before his death.
Molly Martin (1936-2014)
Jim Williamson (1946-2014) Served eight years on the Milton City Council 1977 to 1985 and was elected to four terms as Santa Rosa County Commissioner District 1. Williamson owned Williamson Electrical Company in Milton. He was a recipient of the god in Government Award for Santa Rosa and Escambia Counties in 2000. Jim was named the Santa Rosa County Chamber of Commerce Community Leader of the Year in 2001.
Escambia County Administrator from 19781985 and Pensacola City Manager from 19851990. His leadership set a solid foundation for both governments that lasted for decades. Later as senior vice president for BaskervilleDonovan, Inc., he served as liaison between state and local governments and federal and state funding sources to obtain approval and funding for various governmental projects.
Opened McGuire’s Irish Pub in 1977 with her husband where she oversaw the “house” as hostess, waitress and charismatic entertainer. Together Molly and McGuire Martin developed an empire that includes some of our area’s most celebrated restaurants, including Flounders and Crabs on Pensacola Beach and McGuire's Irish Pub and Vinny McGuire's Pizza in Destin.
Jim Witt (1926-2014)
The Professor Emeritus in the Department of Government joined the faculty of the University of West Florida in 1977. Dr. Witt was known for his quick wit and solid observations on local, state and federal politics. He was an invaluable source for Inweekly during its early years.
James Garner, Actor Philip Seymour Hoffman, Actor Frank Jobe, Orthopedic Surgeon, Invented Tommy John Surgery Casey Kasem, Radio Jockey/Voice Actor Donald Levine, Developer of G. I. Joe
Robin Williams / photo by Joe Seer / Shutterstock.com
NOTABLE DEATHS
Jeb Stuart Magruder, Presidential Aide to Nixon/Convicted in Watergate Scandal Frank Mankiewicz, Journalist/Press Secretary to Robert F. Kennedy
Edmund Abel, Inventor of Mr. Coffee
Mary Ann Mobley, Actress/Miss America
Maya Angelou, Author/Poet/Civil Rights Activist
Mike Nichols, Film Director
Howard Baker, U.S. Senate Majority Leader/White House Chief of Staff Marion Barry, Mayor of the District of Columbia (1979–1991, 1995–1999) Ben Bradlee, Executive Editor of The Washington Post James Brady, White House Press Secretary/Gun Control Advocate
Chuck Noll, Pittsburgh Steelers Head Coach Paul Revere, Singer of Paul Revere & The Raiders Joan Rivers, Comedienne/Actress Mickey Rooney, Actor Pete Seeger, Folk Singer/Songwriter Shirley Temple, Actress/Diplomat
Sid Caesar, Comedian/Actor
Robin Williams, Comedian/Actor
Ruby Dee, Actress/Civil Rights Activist/ National Medal of Arts Laureate
Johnny Winter, Blues Guitarist/Producer Bobby Womack, R&B Singer/Songwriter
file name: 2cl.hor.n.tag file name: 2cl.hor.n.tag 2 color logo (horizontal application) 2 color logo (horizontal application)
This is not the standard format for the ESC logo and should only beThis used and applicable for alogo horizontal application. is when not thenecessary standard format for the ESC and should only be used when necessary and applicable for a horizontal application. Color logo prints PMS 287 plus Cool Gray 8 Color logo prints PMS 287 plus Cool Gray 8
Congratulations to the Bank of Pensacola and President William Woodbury on your new downtown location. We are pleased that such an outstanding financial institution has joined our downtown family of businesses. We look forward to doing business with you at 500 South Palafox Street.
esclaw.com Proudly serving Pensacola for over 100 years. 010 1
inweekly.net
Year in Tunes & Tweets 2014’S TOP MUSIC, FILM, BOOKS AND HASHTAGS
MUSIC
Best Selling Albums
(Source: Billboard Top 200 Albums of 2014) 1. Frozen, Soundtrack 2. Beyonce, Beyonce 3. 1989, Taylor Swift 4. Midnight Memories, One Direction 5. The Marshall Mathers LP 2, Eminem 6. Pure Heroine, Lorde 7. Crash My Party, Luke Bryan 8. Prism, Katy Perry 9. Blame it All on My Roots: Five Decades of Influences, Garth Brooks 10. Here’s To The Good Times, Florida Georgia Line
Highest Grossing Tours
(Source: Billboard Top 25 Tours of 2014) 1. One Direction 2. Justin Timberlake 3. The Rolling Stones 4. Eagles 5. Katy Perry 6. Paul McCartney 7. Bruno Mars
December 26, 2014
8. Beyonce & Jay Z 9. Lady Gaga 10. Michael Buble
Biggest Songs
(Source: Billboard Hot 100 Songs of 2014) 1. Happy, Pharrell Williams 2. Dark House, Katy Perry Featuring Juicy J 3. All Of Me, John Legend 4. Fancy, Iggy Azalea Featuring Charli XCX 5. Counting Stars, OneRepublic 6. Talk Dirty, Jason Derulo Featuring 2 Chainz 7. Rude, MAGIC! 8. All About That Bass, Meghan Trainor 9. Problem, Ariana Grande Featuring Iggy Azalea 10. Stay With Me, Sam Smith
FILM
Highest Grossing Films in North America (Source: boxoffice.com)
1. Guardians of the Galaxy 2. The Hunger Games: Mockingjay - Part 1 3. Captain America: The Winter Soldier 4. The LEGO Movie 5. Transformers: Age of Extinction
6. Maleficent 7. X-Men: Days of Future Past 8. Dawn of The Planet of The Apes 9. The Amazing Spider-Man 2 10. Godzilla
Highest Grossing Indies
(Source:indiewire.com) 1. The Grand Budapest Hotel 2. St. Vincent 3. Chef 4. Boyhood 5. Birdman 6. A Most Wanted Man 7. The Theory of Everything 8. Begin Again 9. America 10. Belle
BOOKS
Amazon’s Top 10 Best Sellers of 2014 (as of Dec. 18) (Source: amazon.com)
1. Strengths Finder 2.0 by Tom Rath 2. Frozen Little Golden Book by Victoria Saxon 3. The Fault in Our Stars by John Green (paperback) 4. Diary of a Wimpy Kid: The Long Haul by Jeff Kinney 5. Laugh-Out-Loud Jokes for Kids by Rob Elliott 6. The Heroes of Olympus Book Five by Rick Riordan 7. Divergent by Veronica Roth 8. Jesus Calling: Enjoying Peace in His... by Sarah Young 9. The Fault in Our Stars by John Green (hardcover) 10. Oh, The Places You'll Go! by Dr. Seuss
SOCIAL MEDIA
Top Social Activism Hashtags of 2014 (Source: huffingtonpost.com)
1. #Ferguson 2. #BeenRapedNeverReported 3. #WhyIStayed 4. #OpKK / #HoodsOff 5. #UmbrellaRevolution 6. #WeAreHere 7. #ICantBreathe 8. #BoycottClippers 9. #MyNYPD 10. #BringBackOurGirls
11
Fast Track Your Appointment When and Where You Need It Pace Milestone Urgent Care Center Foley Mobile Highway Gulf Shores
Airport Medical Park Sacred Heart Hospital Spanish Trail
Davis Highway
Perdido
Tiger Point
Connect to Over 60 Primary Care Physicians along the Gulf Coast Need an appointment? Take the Fast Track to Sacred Heart Medical Group. We now offer two convenient ways to connect to a primary care physician for your next appointment. Call (850) 416-2337 or go online to find a physician and set up an appointment. Fast Track will connect you to a doctor, whether you are a new patient scheduling a first appointment, or a current patient returning to see your primary care physician. As the region’s largest group of primary care providers, Sacred Heart Medical Group makes it easy to find a physician available when it fits into your busy schedule. Stay on track with your health care check-ups with Fast Track.
Making your primary care appointment just got easier! O N LI N E sacred-heart.org/medical group C ALL
212 1 SH0215 Fast Track Ad IN.indd 1
(850) 416-2337
inweekly.net
12/4/14 10:04 AM
Re-evaluating the Affordable Care Act by Jennifer Leigh
more, all I can think about is how one uninsured ER visit could put me in debt for years.”
FIRST-TIMERS
If you’re in need of healthcare for the 2015 year, you have less than two months to sign up through the insurance marketplace. If you’re feeling a little nervous, don’t be. So far 2.5 million new individuals have signed up since enrollment opened again in November. Since the rollout of the Affordable Care Act—or Obamacare as it commonly called—last year, the number of Americans without health insurance declined by 10.3 million, according to a report from the Department of Health and Human Services.
Some of those millions have been without health insurance for some time because of various circumstances. Some never had a health plan in their life. “I was without insurance for 10 years,” said Carly Stone, who enrolled just a few weeks ago. “It was never a huge priority in the past for me to have it. However, as I’ve gotten older and have settled down
A lot of men and women in their 20s and 30s have had the same caviler attitude toward healthcare, which is why President Obama has tried to reach out to young adults via “The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon” and the Zach Galifianakis web series, “Between Two Ferns” to remind them of the importance of healthcare. In the past, most college-aged adults age out of their parents’ insurance plan, which means they’re uninsured until they find a job that offers medical benefits. Now through the ACA, children can remain on their parent’s plan until the age of 26, even if they’re married. Lacey Berry, 26, was an early adopter to the marketplace after she was no longer eligible on her parents’ plan. She pays just $17 a month for insurance, which she said is “pretty incredible.” Berry was not immune to the reported issues of the first enrollment period. “The first year I applied, I had so much trouble with the website that I ended up call-
“As I’ve gotten older and have settled down more, all I can think about is how one uninsured ER visit could put me in debt for years.” Carly Stone
It’s not about the building, it’s about
ing the marketplace,” she said. More than a year later, Stone reported having similar issues. “The website is exhaustingly dysfunctional,” she said. “The first snags were with actually trying to navigate through the site. Then it informed me that I wasn’t eligible for any subsidies, which made no sense.” In the end, she found a plan for $43. It’s the first time she’s been able to afford health insurance since she was on her parents’ plan. “I make too much money to be approved for Medicaid, but not enough to afford health insurance. It has been a struggle indeed,” she said of the decade without a healthcare plan. Berry suggests signing up over the phone, which can take about 30 minutes. “I was very happy with the ease of the transaction that I did it again this year,” she said. “The customer service reps are friendly and make the process pretty painless.”
NAVIGATING THE SYSTEM Both Stone and Berry agree that a little help goes a long way. From the marketplace helpline, to healthcare representatives that visit your work, there’s someone available to answer your questions. You could also go the route of a navigator. Cory Brown, program manager of stability services and benefits at 90Works, helps families and individuals enroll for high-quality plans as a licensed navigator.
“Don’t Be A Victim Twice!”
TM
what’s inside.
(800) 438-3606 December 26, 2014
Medical Doctor on Staff | Lawyers Available 24/7 Over 80 Staff | Accident Investigation Units Accident & Injury Lawyers FL Bar Board Certified Civil Trial Specialist Accident Investigation Team | 3 Locations ~ Accident Engineer | Se Habla Espanol ForTheVictims.com Pensacola | Fort Walton Beach | Crestview 13
Experience Our Difference.
A Higher Quality of Patient Care While West Florida Healthcare has earned many awards and distinctions acknowledging the outstanding medical care we provide, we are also proud of the leadership role we play in the communities we serve. On behalf of our associates, physicians and volunteers, thank you for trusting us to care for you and your loved ones. n Area’s first Accredited
Chest Pain Center n Named a “Key Performer on
Quality Measures” for two years in a row by The Joint Commission n Gold Seal of Approval as an
Advanced Primary Stroke Center by The Joint Commission and the American Heart Association/ American Stroke Association n Get With the Guidelines
Stroke-Gold Plus Quality Achievement Award n Target: Stroke Honor Roll by the
American Heart Association/ American Stroke Association n Area’s first Breast Imaging
Center of Excellence n West Florida Rehabilitation
Institute Accredited by CARF n West Florida Sleep Disorders
Center accredited by the American Academy of Sleep Medicine n UnitedHealth Premium
Specialty Center designation for Cardiac Services and Surgical Spine Services n Accredited by the
American College of Radiology for Breast MRI n Laboratory and Blood Bank
accredited by The Joint Commission and AABB
“Customers we have assisted range from households with no income and households that have income. We also assist small businesses with their employees’ health insurance needs,” Brown said. Assistance can be done at the 90Works office or offsite. And better yet, the service is free. 90Works is a non-profit that works with families to overcome homelessness, poverty and family violence and have always assisted its clients with enrolling for Florida KidCare and Medicaid before assisting people with enrolling through the ACA last year. “Making a choice for an insurance plan can be very overwhelming to someone who is unfamiliar with health insurance,” Brown said. “Navigators are able to answer many of their questions and concerns and explain their options.” The navigators can also help with the application process, explaining eligibility results and offer advice in choosing a plan that best fits their client’s healthcare needs. The whole process takes about an hour— just one lunch break. The kind of clients who come in to the 90Works office are from all walks of life, and most end up leaving the office pleased with their results, Brown said.
et costs or leave their medical bills delinquent. In the last 90 days, the Florida Department of Health in Escambia County, which offers clinical services to women and children as well as dental services, had more than 1,300 visits. Oftentimes people just ignore their health needs. The marketplace plans do provide peace of mind for the relatively healthy, but for individuals like Sarah Humlie, it didn’t quite meet all needs. Humlie does not have medical benefits through her job at a local non-profit, which doesn’t have the funds to support healthcare. If same-sex marriage were legal in the state of Florida, she could join her wife’s insurance plan. Humlie took to the healthcare marketplace in search for a plan when enrollment first opened up. “I had to have some kind of coverage,” she said. As a healthy 32-year-old woman, Humlie was not prepared for the issues she started facing this year. Earlier this month, she was diagnosed with endometrial cancer. Even with her insurance, she has spent thousands of dollars in doctor visits and surgeries. When she signs up for 2015 coverage, she said she’ll be looking at plans that cover more, but they may come with a higher price tag. When it comes to enrolling yourself or your family, healthcare veterans Berry and Stone advise to do your research and don’t procrastinate. “Take a look at plans you’ve had in the past and figure out what your preferences are in terms of deductible, out-of-pocket expenses and copay,” Berry said. And don’t forget of the lifeline available at 90Works. “90Works has a long history of helping the medically uninsured get insured and have access to quality health care,” said Cate Jordan, the organization’s executive director in a recent press release. “We are looking forward to functioning as the expert for advocacy and education for the community’s health insurance needs in Northwest Florida.” {in}
“Making a choice for an insurance plan can be very overwhelming to someone who is unfamiliar with health insurance. Navigators are able to answer many of their questions and concerns and explain their options.” Cory Brown
THE CAUTION SIGN
Of the clients seen at 90Works, several have lost health insurance after reduced work hours. Some fall below the federal poverty level, but still do not meet the qualifications for Medicaid. “These individuals fall into the ‘Medicaid gap’ because of Florida not expanding Medicaid,” Brown explained. In the United States, about 4 million uninsured adults remain so without the expansion. In Florida, about 800,000 individuals are in that gray area. Under the ACA, Florida could offer Medicaid to Florida residents with incomes up to 138 percent of the federal poverty level—$27,310 for a family of three. Instead the annual income eligibility is set for a maximum of $6,930 for a family of three. Despite the numbers, Florida Contact 90Works at 855-909-6757 ext. 5 to get leaders have voted not to expand connected with a health insurance navigator. Think you can go it alone? Sign up today at Medicaid for the past two years. healthcare.gov. The deadline is Feb. 15. These uninsured people are left to visit free clinics, pay high out-of-pock-
GET COVERED:
Find us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/westfloridahealthcare 8383 N. Davis Highway • 850-494-3212 • WestFloridaHospital.com 414 1
inweekly.net
WEEK OF DECEMBER 26-JANUARY 1
Arts & Entertainment art, film, music, stage, books and other signs of civilization...
What Are You Doing New Year's Eve?
Not sure where to ring in the New Year? Whether you are in the mood for family fun, a relaxed evening among friends, or a decadent feast followed by a lively night out on the town, here are some local celebration options to help you welcome in 2015.
ANNUAL EXTRAVAGANZAS
NYE AT THE PELICAN DROP 5:30
p.m. If you’re looking to spend the entire evening amongst the masses, head downtown to the annual Pelican Drop. Family festivities begin early, and musical perforDecember 26, 2014
mances take place throughout the evening. The evening culminates at midnight with the 14-feet tall illuminated pelican descending from its perch at Palafox and Government streets to mark the start of the New Year. For a full schedule of events, visit pensacolapelicandrop.com.
NYE AT SEVILLE QUARTER 7 p.m.
Celebrate NYE with Seville Quarter at the legendary countdown party. The party features live entertainment throughout the entirety of the evening, while top DJs will be spinning high energy dance music in Phineas Phogg’s and out on the street. All
guests will receive party favors and enjoy a champagne toast at midnight. Tickets are available for all budgets and range from $20 to $150. Seville Quarter, 130 E. Government. sevillequarter.com
NYE AT THE ELBOW ROOM 4
p.m. It’s a Pensacola tradition. Whether you stop in for one beer or stay until 2014 is just a memory, bathing yourself in the red light of the Elbow Room is a highly suggested New Year’s Eve activity. A $5 cover gets you inside one of Pensacola’s signature establishments where party favors and champagne abound. With one of the best
full bar menus in town, it’s also a great place to grab a bite to eat. It’s the one place (and one night) where drinking from a shoe is generally socially acceptable—the bar passes around a champagne-filled shoe as part of the midnight toast, which is probably one of the most unique ways to say ‘Happy New Year!’ 2213 W. Cervantes St. 434-0300.
NYE FIREWORKS ON THE BEACH 8 p.m. & Midnight. Two fireworks displays will light up the sky over Pensacola Beach from the end of the gulf pier. pensacolabeachchamber.com
15
WINING & DINING
NYE AT TYPE Chef Blake Rushing and team are offering up six courses to ring in the new year, plus a complimentary glass of champagne on arrival. The fixed price menu is $100 per person. Seating is limited, for reservations call 466-5181. Type, 501 N. 9th Ave. (inside duh), NYE AT H20 AT HILTON PENSACOLA BEACH 5-10 p.m. H2O at the
Hilton on Pensacola Beach presents a NYE Gala Dinner, featuring a luxurious menu by celebrity chef Dan Dunn. For reservations and more information, call 916-2999. Hilton Pensacola Beach Gulf Front, 12 Via De Luna Drive. hiltonpensacolabeach.com
NYE AT THE FISH HOUSE 6 p.m. &
9 p.m. The Fish House will be offering two special seatings for the evening in the main dining room as a part of the annual NYE wine and food event. Seatings will feature the culinary creations of Chef Billy Ballou with a fixed-price, five-course menu along with wine pairings. $100 per person (including tax and gratuity) with complimentary favors included. The Fish House and Atlas will open at 5 p.m. with full service from regular menus. The Fish House, 600 S. Barracks St. fishhousepensacola.com
NYE AT JACKSON’S 7 p.m. & 9 p.m.
Jackson’s will be offering two special seatings for the evening in the President’s Room. Seatings will feature the culinary creations of Chef Irv Miller with a fixedprice, three-course menu and bottomless champagne. $125 per person with complimentary favors and valet services included. Jackson’s is also offering dinner reservations in the Governor’s Room with full service from the new fall/winter menu beginning at 5 p.m. For reservations call 469-9898. Jackson’s Steakhouse, 400 S. Palafox. jacksonsrestaurant.com
THEATRICAL DISPLAYS
NYE MASQUERADE BALL WITH FIRST CITY SHAKESPEARE 8 p.m.
First City Shakespeare is hosting a NYE masquerade ball—an elegant evening of music and comedy. The event includes performances by members of the Shakespeare company, beginning with a cocktail hour and hors d'oeuvres. Throughout the evening, guests will enjoy an open bar and dessert bar, dancing, games and a silent auction. Costumes and masks are required, and there will be an unmasking and champagne toast at midnight. $75 per person. Tickets include: food, drink, games, dancing, performances and the chance to win a two-night stay at the Hilton Pensacola Beach. Tower East, 1010 N. 12th Ave., Suite 211. For more information, visit setsco.org/ first-city-shakespeare.html
MUSICAL PERFORMANCES
NYE AT THE SAENGER THEATRE WITH PENSACOLA SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA 7 p.m. Ring in the New
Year with an exciting mix of jazz hits performed by the Pensacola Symphony Orchestra. This special performance features conductor Peter Rubardt and violinist Lindsay Deutsch. Saenger Theatre, 118 S. Palafox. $19-85. pensacolasaenger.com
NYE AT VINYL MUSIC HALL 8 p.m.
Celebrate NYE with a free concert at Vinyl Music Hall, featuring Post Pluto, Fatty Waters, New Earth Army and Soul’d Out. Vinyl Music Hall, 2 S. Palafox. vinylmusichall.com
NYE (EVIL) AT THE HANDLEBAR
8 p.m. If you’re in the mood for metal music, head on over to the Handlebar for NYEvil. This annual metal showcase features numerous acts. The Handlebar, 319 Tarragona St. $8. pensacolahandlebar.com
NYE AT THE SANDSHAKER 8 p.m. Enjoy a night of festive drinks and fun at the Sandshaker on Pensacola Beach, with two musical performances by Buzzcut. Performances take place at 8 p.m. and midnight, to align with the fireworks displays. Catch an uninterrupted view of fireworks from the Shaker deck. The Sandshaker, 731 Pensacola Beach Blvd. sandshaker.com
NYE AT SLUGGO’S 9:30 p.m. The evening includes musical performances by Dicks from Mars, Routine Involvements
and Pleistocene. Sluggo’s Vegetarian Restaurant, 101 S. Jefferson St. $5. sluggospensacola.com {in}
FOREVER DIETING? TIME TO CHANGE THE WAY YOU THINK ABOUT FOOD. A LUMINOUS LIFE HYPNOTHERAPY
SUSAN DUNLOP, MA, CHT
INTERNATIONALLY CERTIFIED HYPNOTHERAPIST
850-346-7865 EAST HILL
www.luminouslifehypnotherapy.com 616 1
inweekly.net
calendar FRIDAY 12.26
“WINE WITH HILARY: THE FOOD” 3-4 p.m.
This week in class four of her four week series, “How to Taste,” Hilary discusses the importance of wine pairings and how to achieve the perfect combination. The wine tasting class will include appetizers prepared by resident chefs. Attendance includes a 10 percent discount on wine purchases following the class. SoGourmet above Bodacious Olive, 407 S. Palafox. $15. sogourmetpensacola.com WINE TASTING AT CITY GROCERY 5-7 p.m. Out and about in East Hill on Friday night? Stop by City Grocery for their free weekly wine tasting before settling in or heading out for the night. 2050 N. 12th Ave. SOULFUL CHRISTMAS CABARET 8 p.m. Vinyl Music Hall, 2 S. Palafox. $10. vinylmusichall.comPRECUBED 9 p.m. An evening of instrumental tunes with Precubed, Early Founder and Transmute. Sluggo’s Vegetarian Restaurant, 101 S. Jefferson St. $5. sluggospensacola.com
day). For more information and to register, visit werunwild.com. PALAFOX MARKET 8 a.m.-2 p.m. Fresh produce, live plants, baked goods, fine art and antiques are just a few of the items offered at the weekly Palafox Market in Downtown Pensacola. Items originate directly from participating vendors, including dozens of local farmers, home gardeners and area artists. Martin Luther King Jr. Plaza, N. Palafox. palafoxmarket.com UKULELE CLASS 9:30 a.m. The Pensacola Ukulele Players Society (PUPS) meets every Saturday morning at Blues Angel Music, offering free ukulele lessons for both beginners and seasoned musicians. Loaner ukuleles are available for the sessions, which usually last an hour. Blues Angel Music, 657 N. Pace Blvd. bluesangelmusic.com MAKE IT TO THE LINE RUN 10 a.m. This 4 mile run/walk and 1 mile fun run takes place at the Flora-Bama in Perdido Key. Register online at active.com. Flora-Bama Lounge, Package and Oyster Bar, 17401 Perdido Key Dr. $25. florabama.com CHRIS THOMAS KING AND GRAYSON CAPPS
SATURDAY 12.27
RUN FOR LIFE 5K 8 a.m. The Micah Man-
date Run for Life 5K run/walk will benefit Safe Harbor Pregnancy Medical Center in providing valuable and needed services to women traumatized by unexpected pregnancy. The Drowsy Poet Coffee Company, 86 Brent Lane. $25 to register ($30 on race
8 p.m. Vinyl Music Hall, 2 S. Palafox. $12-15. vinylmusichall.com THE SATS 10 p.m. The Sats with Faux/Fox and Ghost and Cinema. The Handlebar, 319 Tarragona St. $5. pensacolahandlebar.com
taking a brisk walk through East Pensacola Heights with the Florida Trail Association. The walk will be from 1-3 miles in distance and take about an hour. Join for breakfast afterwards. Meet at A.K. Suter Elementary, 501 Pickens Ave. Sign up at meetup.com/ flawesterngate. NAVAL LIKE OAKS HIKE 8:30 a.m. Meet in front of the Visitor’s Center on the south side of Hwy. 98. The walk will take participants through the Naval Live Oaks section and continue on the fishing trail towards Gulf Breeze. 1801 Gulf Breeze Pkwy. Sign up at meetup.com/flawesterngate. SEVILLE QUARTER HOLIDAY SHOWCASE
8 p.m. Top off the Christmas weekend by listening to a diverse mix of local music. Located in Apple Annie's, the event will feature a diverse selection of music from rock to soul, with live bands including Vibe Irie, Mad Love, Tips For Lucy, and Munka. Seville Quarter, 130 E.Government St. Free. sevillequarter.com
MONDAY 12.29
COTTONTAIL 9:30 p.m. Cottontail, Liz Rose,
Al Mirabella and Paul The P Funk Fresh. Sluggo’s Vegetarian Restaurant, 101 S. Jefferson St. $5. sluggospensacola.com
TUESDAY 12.30
STRUT YOUR MUTT 6:45 p.m. Join fellow
SUNDAY 12.28
WAKE UP HIKE 7 a.m. Get the day started by
dog owners for a 45-minute leisurely stroll
in East Hill. Dogs must be leashed and well behaved. Owners should be prepared to pick up after the pets. Meet at the entrance of Bayview Park, 20th Ave. and E. Mallory St.
TUESDAY NIGHT POETRY NIGHT AT SLUGGO’S 7 p.m. Free open mic poetry
event every Tuesday. Sluggo’s Vegetarian Restaurant, 101 S. Jefferson St. facebook. com/TNPNS PROPAGANDHI 7 p.m. Propagandhi with Rvivr, and War on Women. Vinyl Music Hall, 2 S. Palafox. $20. vinylmusichall.com DANCECRAFT SWING CLASS 7:30-9 p.m. This class teaches the skills necessary to become a practitioner of West Coast Swing, a popular partner dance that can be enjoyed with virtually any kind of music. Additional classes and a social dance are held each Wednesday for a chance to put your skills to use. Tuesday class fee is $10 per person or free for people 30 years of age and younger. DanceCraft, 8618 Pensacola Blvd. dancecraftfl.com
WEDNESDAY 12.31
WEST COAST WEDNESDAYS 6 :30 p.m. Learn the West Coast Swing at this weekly class, which is followed by a social dance at 8:30 p.m. DanceCraft instructors are among the foremost experts in West Coast Swing in the Pensacola area. Wednesday classes are $10 per person and the social dance is $5 per. DanceCraft, 8618 Pensacola Blvd. dancecraftfl.com
WUWF PUBLIC MEDIA PRESENTS
RadioLive
unique & affordable
Join us for Wine Tastings Thursdays 5-7 p.m.
FEATURING
SPENCER BOHREN & THE WRITE BROTHERS 1/8/15
facebook.com/themagnoliaeph
ADMISSION:
6 p.m. Museum of Commerce in Historic Downtown Pensacola
27 S. 9th Ave.
a neighborhood bar & restaurant
Suggested donation of non-perishables for Manna Food Pantries.
433-WINE or 433-9463
www.aragonwinemarket.com
Give the gift of fitness!
INFO:
wuwf.org 850.474.2787
Get a head start on 2015 and receive 1 month free!
*Please note that this event will be held on the second Thursday of the month instead of the first
SPONSORED BY:
Spencer Bohren December 26, 2014
100 S Alcaniz St. • 850.469.1144 email chris@anytimepensacola.com anytimefitness.com 17
calendar 130 E. Government St. sevillequarter.com The Sandshaker Lounge, 9 p.m. 731 Pensacola Beach Blvd. sandshaker. com Mondays
The Cabaret, 9 p.m. 101 S. Jefferson St. 607-2020 or cabaretpensacola.com
Bad Habits
Tuesdays
E. Government St. sevillequarter.com
bars & nightlife
MONDAY NIGHT TRIVIA 9:30-10:30
≥bar games Thursdays
POKER 8 p.m. The
Ticket 1, 7250 Plantation Rd., ticketsportsbar.com POOL TOURNAMENT
8 p.m. The Ticket 2, 2115 W. 9 Mile Rd., ticketsportsbar.com Fridays
DRAG BINGO 6-8
p.m. Ages 21 and over. Emerald City’s The Other Side, 406 E. Wright St. emeraldcitypensacola. com POOL TOURNAMENT
8 p.m. The Ticket 1, 7250 Plantation Rd., ticketsportsbar.com Mondays
TEXAS HOLD ‘EM FOR FUN AND TRIVIA 7
p.m. The Sandshaker Lounge, 731 Pensacola Beach Blvd. sandshaker.com TRIVIA NIGHT 7-9 p.m. World of Beer, 200 S. Palafox. wobusa.com/locations/ Palafox BAR BINGO 8 p.m. Apple Annie’s at Seville Quarter, 130
p.m. Mugs and Jugs, 12080 Scenic Highway. facebook.com/ MugsJugs
Tuesdays
TUESDAY TRIVIA 8
p.m. The Bridge Bar and Sunset Lounge, 33 Gulf Breeze Parkway. facebook.com/ thebridgebargb
TICKET TEAM TRIVIA
8 p.m. The Ticket 1, 7250 Plantation Rd., ticketsportsbar.com POKER 8 p.m. The Ticket 2, 2115 W. 9 Mile Rd., ticketsportsbar.com DRAG BINGO 10 p.m.-Midnight. Ages 18 and over. Emerald City’s The Other Side, 406 E. Wright St. emeraldcitypensacola.com Wednesdays
PUB TRIVIA NIGHT
7-9:30 p.m. Goat Lips Beer Garden, 2811 Copter Road. facebook.com/ goatlipsdeli
WEDNESDAY QUIZ TRIVIA 8 p.m. The
Cabaret, 101 S. Jef-
ferson St. cabaretpensacola.com TICKET BAR BINGO
8 p.m. The Ticket 1, 7250 Plantation Rd., ticketsportsbar.com TEAM TRIVIA 8 p.m. Hopjacks. 10 S. Palafox. hopjacks.com BAR BINGO 10 p.m. Play, 16 S. Palafox, Suite 200. iplaypensacola.com
≥karaoke Thursdays
VFW Post 706, 6 p.m. 5000 Lillian Highway. vfw706.org Lili Marlene’s at Seville Quarter, 8 p.m. 130 E. Government St. sevillequarter. com The Cabaret, 9 p.m. 101 S. Jefferson St. cabaretpensacola. com Hub Stacey’s At the Point, 9 p.m. 5851 Galvez Road. hubstaceys.com Saturdays
Hub Stacey’s Downtown, 9 p.m. 312 E. Government St. hubstaceys.com Sundays
Lili Marlene’s at Seville Quarter, 8 p.m.
The Sandshaker Lounge, 8 p.m. 731 Pensacola Beach Blvd. sandshaker. com Play, 9 p.m. 16 S. Palafox, Suite 200. iplaypensacola.com
≥live music
FRIDAY 12.26
LUCAS CRUTCHFIELD
5 p.m. The Deck at The Fish House, 600 S. Barracks St. fishhouse.goodgrits.com AL MARTIN 6 p.m. The Piano Bar, Quality Inn, 7601 Scenic Highway. facebook. com/QualityInnScenicHwy DAVID DUNN 6 p.m. Peg Leg Pete’s, 1010 Fort Pickens Rd. peglegpetes.com JOHN LINK 6:30 p.m. Picasso Jazz Club, 19 S. Palafox. picassojazz.com DUELING PIANO SHOW 8 p.m. Rosie
O’ Grady’s at Seville Quarter, 130 E. Government St. sevillequarter.com THE BLENDERS 8:30 p.m. Hub Stacey's Downtown, 312 E. Government St.
hubstaceys.com
DJ ORLANDO RICARDO 9 p.m. Emerald
City, 406 E. Wright St. emeraldcitypensacola.com MO JILES 9 p.m. The Deck at The Fish House, 600 S. Barracks St. fishhouse. goodgrits.com LYON’S LIMOZINE 9 p.m. Lili Marlene’s at Seville Quarter, 130 E. Government St. sevillequarter.com BAD HABITS 9 p.m. Apple Annie’s at Seville Quarter, 130 E. Government St. sevillequarter.com CLASS X 9 p.m. Sandshaker Lounge, 731 Pensacola Beach Blvd. sandshaker. com
SATURDAY 12.27
AL MARTIN 6 p.m. The Piano Bar, Quality Inn, 7601 Scenic Highway. facebook. com/QualityInnScenicHwy PLATNUM PREMIER BAND 6 p.m. Peg
Leg Pete’s, 1010 Fort Pickens Rd. peglegpetes.com JOHN LINK 6:30 p.m. Picasso Jazz Club, 19 S. Palafox. picassojazz.com DUELING PIANO SHOW 8 p.m. Rosie
O’ Grady’s at Seville Quarter, 130 E. Government St. sevillequarter.com MO JILES 9 p.m. The Deck at The Fish House, 600 S. Barracks St. fishhouse. goodgrits.com
DJ JAY-R 9 p.m. Emerald City, 406 E. Wright St. emeraldcitypensacola.com LYON’S LIMOZINE 9 p.m. Lili Marlene’s at Seville Quarter, 130 E. Government St. sevillequarter.com BAD HABITS 9 p.m. Apple Annie’s at Seville Quarter, 130 E. Government St. sevillequarter.com CLASS X 9 p.m. Sandshaker Lounge, 731 Pensacola Beach Blvd. sandshaker. com
SUNDAY 12.28
DUNNOTTAR 4 p.m.
Sandshaker Lounge, 731 Pensacola Beach Blvd. sandshaker. com DJ JAY-R 9 p.m. Emerald City, 406 E. Wright St. emeraldcitypensacola.com
MONDAY 12.29
BLUES SOCIETY OF NORTHWEST FLORIDA’S MONDAY NIGHT BLUES 8 p.m.
Lili Marlene’s at Seville Quarter, 130 E. Government St. sevillequarter.com
PAPER STREET SOAP CO. 8 p.m. End o’ the
Alley at Seville Quarter, 130 E. Government St. sevillequarter.com
OPEN MIC AT BIG EASY TAVERN 9 p.m.
Bands, individual musicians, comedians, poets, and other artists are invited to participate in weekly open mic sessions known as "Monday
BMW 2015
sandysansingbmw.com 1-866-864-4847
The Ultimate Driving Machine®
THE BMW HAPPIER HOLIDAYEVENT
facebook.com/ rfpensacola
RECEIVE A HOLIDAY CREDIT OF UP TO $3,500* ON SELECT MODELS.
279
$
mo.
39 months
2015 BMW 320i Lease and finance offers available by Sandy Sansing BMW through BMW Financial Services. 2015 BMW 320i, 39 mos. lease, $3,754 due at signing, 10K miles/yr., residual .62 plus tax, tag, lic., first month payment and security deposit. Available to order.
Sandy Sansing BMW
sandysansingbmw.com
186 W Airport Blvd. 850-477-1855 or 1-866-864-4847
*The up to $3,500 credit is applied against MSRP of final purchase, not title, not tax, destination or handling charges. Credit allowance varies by model, through 1/2/15. For all offer details visit bmwusa.com/happierholiday. ©2014 BMW of North America, LLC. The BMW name, model names and logo are registered trademarks.
818 1
inweekly.net
calendar Night Jams." Admission is free. 710 N. Palafox. bigeasytavern.com
TUESDAY 12.30
LUCAS CRUTCHFIELD
6 p.m. The Deck at The Fish House, 600 S. Barracks St. fishhouse.goodgrits.com TUESDAY JAZZ JAM: THE GINO ROSARIA QUARTET 6:30 p.m.
Lili Marlene’s at Seville Quarter, 130 E. Government St. sevillequarter.com MIKE QUINN 9 p.m. End o’ the Alley Courtyard at Seville Quarter, 130 E. Government St. sevillequarter.com
WEDNESDAY 12.31
LUCAS CRUTCHFIELD
5 p.m. The Deck at
The Fish House, 600 S. Barracks St. fishhouse.goodgrits.com DAVID MEADOWS 6 p.m. Peg Leg Pete’s, 1010 Fort Pickens Rd. peglegpetes.com FOLK MUSIC NIGHT 7 p.m. End of the Line Café, 610 E. Wright St. eotlcafe.com THE BLENDERS 8:30 p.m. Hub Stacey's
of Pensacola Multicultural Center, 119 East Government Street. historicpensacola.org
Artel's Local Artist Show
arts & culture
≥exhibits
MAINLINE ART HOUSE PRESENTS: “LARRY MARCHANT: FROM MISSISSIPPI TO VOGUE” Larry has
been shooting advertising and editorial photography for over twenty years. His Fine Art background combined with his years in Photojournalism and Advertising weave a unique depth into his work. On display through Jan. 9, 2015. Museum hours and location: Tuesday - Friday, 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.; Saturday, 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. Mainline Art House, 442 S. Palafox. mainlinearthouse.com PMA PRESENTS: “THE ALICE IN WONDERLAND SERIES” The
Pensacola Museum of Art presents a whimsical journey into Wonderland through the oil on canvas paintings of Stefani Joseph. Joseph is a British figurative painter and professor at the Savannah College of December 26, 2014
Art & Design. Also on display through Jan 2015: “Pat Regan: Roots and Remembrance” and “Guild Hall: An Adventure in the Arts.” Museum hours, admission fees and location: Tuesday-Saturday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Admission is $10 for adults; $8 for members, children 17 and under, seniors and active duty military. Pensacola Museum of Art, 407 S. Jefferson St. pensacolamuseum.org
UWF HISTORIC TRUST PRESENTS: “AGAINST THE ODDS: THE ART OF HIGHWAYMEN”
Presented by the UWF Historic Trust, The Voices of Pensacola Multicultural Resource Center is hosting the Orange County Historical Society’s: “Against the Odds: The Art of the Highwaymen” traveling exhibit. On display through Dec. 28. Museum hours and location: Tuesday - Saturday, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Voices
T.T. WENTWORTH PRESENTS: “BEACHES, CREATURES AND COWBOYS: FLORIDA MOVIE POSTERS” The
exhibit explores Florida as the backdrop of major motion pictures. On display through Feb 2015. Museum hours and location: Tuesday – Saturday, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. T.T. Wentworth, Jr. Florida State Museum, 330 S. Jefferson St. historicpensacola.org FPAN PRESENTS: “LOST VIRTUE”
The Florida Public Archaeology Network presents a new temporary exhibit titled “Lost Virtue: Pensacola’s Red Light District.” Several artifacts associated with the women who worked in Pensacola’s red light district during the late 1800s and early 1900s uncovered through archaeology are on display for the first time, through January 2015. Museum hours and location: Monday-Saturday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. FPAN’s Destination Archaeology Resource Cen-
Downtown, 312 E. Government St. hubstaceys.com DJ JAY-R 9 p.m. Emerald City, 406 E. Wright St. emeraldcitypensacola.com THE MODERN ELDORADOS 9 p.m.
Lili Marlene’s at Seville Quarter, 130 E. Government St. sevillequarter.com
ter, 207 East Main St. flpublicarchaeology. org/nwrc
QUAYSIDE ART GALLERY PRESENTS: “CHRISTMAS WITH ART” Local artists
display original work including artistic ornaments and special gift ideas. On display through Jan. 5, 2015. Museum hours and location: MondaySaturday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and Sunday, 1-5 p.m. Quayside Art Gallery, 17 E. Zaragoza St. quaysidegallery.com
BLUE MORNING GALLERY PRESENTS: “HOLIDAY WALL” The
Blue Morning Gallery “Holiday Wall” is on display with works of art by Gallery member artists, all priced under $100. Museum hours and location: Monday-Wednesday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Thursday-Saturday, 10 a.m.-8:30 p.m., and Sunday, 12:30-4 p.m. Blue Morning Gallery, 21 S. Palafox. bluemorninggallery. com
ARTEL PRESENTS: “LOCAL ARTIST SHOW” Visit the gal-
lery to see the work of 91 local artists. On display through Jan. 9, 2015. Museum hours and location: Tuesday-Saturday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Artel Gallery, 223 S. Palafox, Old County Courthouse. artelgallery.org
for more listings visit inweekly.net
Best Voted Cuisine e Chines Hot Ramen Noodles for Cold Weather
Upscale Chinese Dining
912-8669 | 5912 N. Davis Hwy. (Ste C) www.sharkfinpensacola.com
Ichiban JapaneseRestaurant Voted Best Sushi Runner Up Best Japanese Cuisine
494-2227 | 5555 N. Davis Hwy. www.ichibanpensacola.com 19
A BlabTV Original Series
It’s SHOWTIME Airs every Sunday night at 8 p.m. through Jan. 25 Escambia County, FL
Santa Rosa County, FL
Okaloosa County, FL
Mobile County, AL
Escambia County, AL
Baldwin County, AL
Cox Communications ..... Ch. 6, HD Ch. 1006 Bright House.............................................. Ch. 14 Satellite Providers ................................... Ch. 48 AT&T Uverse ............................................. Ch. 48
Mediacom................................................. Ch. 97 Satellite Providers .................................. Ch. 48 AT&T Uverse ............................................ Ch. 48
Mediacom.....................................Ch. 21 Satellite Providers ......................Ch. 48 AT&T Uverse ................................Ch. 48
Mediacom....................................... Ch. 21 Satellite Providers ....................... Ch. 48 AT&T Uverse ................................. Ch. 48
Cox Communications ...Ch. 22, HD Ch. 1022 Satellite Providers ................................... Ch. 48 AT&T Uverse ............................................. Ch. 48
Mediacom........................................ Ch. 21 & 97 Riviera Utilities................... Ch. 18 HD Ch. 861 Satellite Providers ...................................Ch. 48 AT&T Uverse .............................................Ch. 48
Also Airing In
George County, MS Clarke County, AL Conecuh County, AL Greene County, MS Washington County, AL Monroe County, AL
On Satellite Providers & Antenna, Ch. 48 Satellite Providers: Dish and DirecTV
Check out the new website: BlabTV.com 020 2
inweekly.net
calendar
Ears & Fingers - Top 25 of 2014 by Jason Leger
25. Merchandise-“After the End” 24. Chris Staples-“American Soft” 23. Cymbals Eat Guitars-“LOSE” 22. Courtney Barnett-“A Split Sea of Peas” 21. King Tuff-“Black Moon Spell” 20. Angel Olsen-“Burn Your Fire for No Witness” 19. Jenny Lewis-“The Voyager” 18. Death from Above 1979-“The Physical World” 17. Real Estate-“Atlas” 16. Ariel Pink-“Pom Pom” 15. Parquet Courts-“Sunbathing Animal” 14. Damien Jurado-“Brothers and Sisters of the Eternal Son” 13. Swans-“To Be Kind” 12. TV on the Radio-“Seeds” 11. Perfume Genius-“Too Bright”
els” collaboration, and the results are monumental. Easily the greatest hip-hop album released this year, “Run the Jewels 2” is urgent and cynical in the best way possible. Top Track: ‘Oh My Darling, Don’t Cry’
it. “Here and Nowhere Else” is post-punk perfection from guys who haven’t had to be at it for very long to rise to the top. This is a band to keep an eye on in the future. Top Track: ‘Pattern Walks’
9. THE NEW PORNOGRAPHERS“BRILL BRUISERS”
Mac DeMarco is another guy who has gotten a lot of air time this year. He seems to be all over the place. From flashing his genitals in friends’ music videos, to popping up on Adult Swim with Tyler the Creator, to getting arrested for disturbing the peace, he hasn’t had a problem drawing attention to himself. However the attention is well deserved, as “Salad Days,” his second full-length album, is hazy, discordant bliss. Top Track: ‘Brother’
Canadian mega-force, The New Pornographers, produced another LP of effervescent and lively jams in “Brill Bruisers.” While Carl Newman is the creative force behind the band, it’s Dan Bejar’s tracks that really stand out from the rest. Top Track: ‘Born with a Sound’
8. SUN KIL MOON-“BENJI”
Mark Kozelek has had an interesting year, to say the least. Between feuding with The War on Drugs, telling “hillbilly” fans at a festival to “shut the f*ck up,” and putting out an acclaimed album, he has kept his name in blog headlines and hipster mouths all year. Top track: ‘Pray for Newtown’
7. FUCKED UP-“GLASS BOYS”
These cats came back from hiatus in a strong way this year. Instead of trying to write an epic rock opus like previous efforts, they opted to simply make a rock album, and the result is absolutely perfect. They did not miss a beat after taking a couple of years off and hopefully plan on sticking around for a while. Top Track: ‘Sun Glass’
10. RUN THE JEWELS-“RUN THE JEWELS 2”
Killer Mike and El-P dropped the second installment from their “Run the Jew-
6. CLOUD NOTHINGS-“HERE AND NOWHERE ELSE”
This year has been good to Cloud Nothings, but not because they don’t deserve
modern american cuisine with a southern twist
5. MAC DEMARCO-“SALAD DAYS”
4. SPOON-“THEY WANT MY SOUL”
Spoon are no strangers to critical acclaim. They have been kings in the indie rock world for years, and rightfully so. “They Want My Soul” is the band’s grandest attempt at making something more appealing to a larger audience and making it seem effortless. Top Track: ‘New York Kiss’
number two on this list was difficult. Both of these albums were on constant rotation and both came to mean a lot to me. “HEAL” is an album of catharsis for Strand of Oaks’ creative force, Timothy Showalter. He seems to have endured quite a bit between 2012’s “Dark Shores” and the recording process of “HEAL,” and his scars bleed over in some of the most emotive ways ever caught on tape. Top Track: ‘Plymouth’
1. THE WAR ON DRUGS-“LOST IN THE DREAM”
Adam Granofsky thinks and rethinks everything he writes. The process takes a long time, and this is why The War on Drugs have only released three albums in nine years. However when the output is the caliber of “Lost in the Dream,” why would anyone complain? It’s my firm belief that this album should be at the top of every critic’s list this year, because it’s absolutely perfect and the appeal doesn’t fade. Top Track: ‘Under the Pressure’ {in}
3. FUTURE ISLANDS-“SINGLES”
Twice this year, I have deemed Future Islands “the most important band of 2014,” and as we near the end, I absolutely still stand by it. “Singles,” along with a memorable Letterman performance, launched these guys into the national spotlight and paved the way for a year amassed with tour dates. From start to finish, “Singles” is passionate and brilliant. Top Track: ‘A Dream of You and Me’
2. STRAND OF OAKS-“HEAL”
Choosing between number one and
E r i c D. Ste v e n s on
Inside Duh! 501 N. 9th Ave. Tue-Sat 5:30-10pm
Reservations @ 850-466-5181/
opentable.com + walk-ins welcome Like us on Facebook and see our ever changing menu December 26, 2014
Personal Injur y | Criminal Justice 919 N. 12th Avenue Pensacola, Florida 32501
O: (850) 434-3111 F: (850) 434-1188
mypensacolaattorney.com • email: eric@mypensacolaattorney.com 21
222 2
inweekly.net
news of the weird THE NEW NORMAL An Oceanside, California, couple was surprised in November to discover that buying a purebred bichon frise on credit meant they were only leasing the dog for 27 months and would have to make a 28th payment to actually "own" Tresor. Furthermore, the lease, under a "repo" threat, required "daily exercise," "regular bathing and grooming" and "immediate" disposal of Tresor's "waste." A spokesperson for the store, Oceanside Puppy (which works with four finance companies), told the San Diego Union- Tribune that the arrangement is fairly standard now for expensive pets. FIRST-WORLD PROBLEMS (1) NBC's "Today" show reported in December the "heartbreak" parents are feeling when they learn that the supposedly unique name ("wonderful, distinctive, rarely heard") they had given their infant in the last year or two (e.g., "Mason," "Liam," "Lily") actually appeared on BabyCenter's annual list of most popular names of 2014 (6th, 3rd and 8th, respectively). (2) After hearing tenants' complaints, the New York City Council is now considering a regulation requiring landlords to post notices if a common area or amenity is unusable for 24 hours or more—which applies of course to elevators and laundry rooms, but would also extend to any air hockey or foosball facilities in the building. PERSPECTIVE Although elephants, rhesus monkeys, cobras, cows and water buffalos are regarded as sacred by many of India's Hindus, the animals most certainly do not live idyllic lives, according to a November BBC News dispatch. As "growing populations are swallowing up habitat," the divine symbols are forced to the cities, where they must dodge traffic, forage garbage for food, and endanger themselves encountering people less certain of their holiness (such as in the November report of the cobra harassing customers at an ATM in Delhi). As representatives of Lord Ganesha, elephants live well only during religious festivals, but otherwise must navigate asphalt and potholes that tear up their hooves. In another November incident, some Hindu leaders protested a drive to kill rats that had infested the Maharaja Yeshwantrao hospital in Indore—because Ganesha was depicted riding a mouse. POLICE REPORT In a 2012 incident in Cleveland (where a white police officer recently shot to death a black teenager holding a toy gun), 13 officers chased two unarmed black homeless drug users at high speeds and fired 137 shots at the pair, killing them. (A car had supposedly backfired, suggesting a gunshot at the cops.) As a result of "communication" failure, the 13 were placed on limited "desk duty" for 16 months and
by Chuck Shepherd
subjected to continuing investigation. Recently, nine of the 13 officers sued the city, charging that non-black officers are historically and illegally disciplined more harshly for mistakes when victims are black. • Big Crime: (1) Four officers responded in Tayport, Scotland, in July to arrest Irene Clark, 65, who spent 48 hours in jail— after committing the crime of swatting her husband with a magazine while arguing over TV programs (causing a paper cut). (2) Christopher Saunders, 38, pleaded guilty in North Devon, England, in November to possession of 0.09 grams of marijuana (value: 14 cents). (3) Keith Shannon, 44, was sentenced (two years' probation) in Letterkenny, Ireland, in November for twice being caught swiping "tester" packets of aftershave at a Boots store (value: 2 cents each). A NEWS OF THE WEIRD CLASSIC (FEBRUARY 2011) The ear has a "G-spot," explained Santa Clara, California, ear, nose and throat surgeon Todd Dray, and thus the moans of ecstasy that Vietnamese "ear pickers" reportedly elicit from their clients might well be justified. A San Jose Mercury News reporter, dispatched to Ho Chi Minh City in January (2011) to check it out, learned that barber shop technicians could sometimes coax "eargasms" (as they removed wax) by tickling a certain spot next to the ear drum served by multiple nerve endings and tissue paper-thin skin. Said one female client, "Everybody is afraid the first time, but after, it's, 'Oh my God!'" Said one Vietnamese man, returning home after a trip abroad, and who went immediately from the airport to a "hot toc" parlor for a picking, "(This) brings a lot of happiness." LEAST COMPETENT CRIMINALS (1) Unclear on the Concept: A 34-year-old man was arrested at a Tesco supermarket in Bar Hill, England, on Nov. 12 when he entered the store and threatened employees—by showing them a photograph of a gun. (2) Recurring Theme: Two men were arrested easily in Silver City, New Mexico, in December. Thieves had broken into Javalina Coffee House downtown and dragged away the ATM behind their truck. With the help of a witness—and especially the gouge marks in the street running from the Javalina directly to the nearby residence of the men—police nabbed the two and were still searching for a third. {in}
From Universal Press Syndicate Chuck Shepherd’s News Of The Weird © 2014 Chuck Shepherd
Send your weird news to Chuck Shepherd, P.O. Box 18737, Tampa, Fla., 33679 or weirdnews@earthlink.net, or go to newsoftheweird.com December 26, 2014
23
PA R T Y U N D E R T H E H E AT E D D E C K T E N T !
New Year’s Eve Celebration! FIVE-COURSE FOOD AND WINE DINNER WITH TWO SEATINGS AT 6 AND 9 P.M.
Reserve your table for our New Year’s Eve five-course dinner with paired wines. We’ll be offering two seatings in the main dining room at 6 and 9 p.m. $100 per person (excludes tax and gratuity) with complimentary favors included. For pre-symphony dining, The Fish House and Atlas will open at 5 p.m. with service from our regular menus. Walk-ins welcome all evening!
(850) 470-0003 · 600 S.BARRACKS ST., DOWNTOWN ON THE WATER · FISHHOUSEPENSACOLA.COM
Independent News | December 26, 2014 | inweekly.net