Pensacola Magazine November 2016

Free fall into foo foo fest Abigail Spencer

Pensacola’s annual assortment of area activities

Q + A with our Local Leading Lady

Winterfest

all your favorite holiday characters and festivities

Band of Beards BEARD CULTURE + MEN’S HEALTH IN PENSACOLA

SPECIAL BUSINESS CLIMATE SECTION INSIDE

NOVEMBER 2016 • PENSACOLAMAGAZINE.COM

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Editor’s Note my two cents on the subject Kelly Oden Executive Editor With Halloween behind us, November brings our attention to the upcoming holiday season, but not before the country chooses a new leader and a new direction. As I write this, the election has not yet been decided. I know most of us are nervous about the outcome one way or another. I won’t discuss my political views in this column.

I certainly have some, but I respect the right of others to have their own as well. It’s been an ugly political season, both within the campaigns and in the country in general.

While each candidate offers a decidedly different take on how to improve our country, let’s remember one thing— as individuals and as a community, we have the power to make meaningful change in our world whether our chosen representative is in office or not. I don’t typically reprint Internet quotes, but I really like this one and I hope we will all take a little advice from social media this election season and beyond.

While much of America seems to be getting more and more divisive, I’m going to be holding doors for strangers, letting people cut in front of me in traffic, greeting all I meet, exercising patience with others and smiling at strangers. I’ll do this as often as I have the opportunity. I will not stand idly by and let children live in a world where unconditional love is invisible and being rude is acceptable. Join me in showing love and respect to others. Find your way to swing the pendulum in the direction of love. Because today, sadly, hate is gaining ground. Love must begin somewhere and

love will overcome hate. Imagine the difference if we each purposefully love a little more.

On that note, this issue offers an assortment of ways to show your love in our community. From a list of holiday volunteer opportunities to local fundraising events like Winterfest and much more. Also, check out our interview with Abigail Spencer, a Gulf Breeze native who is crafting an impressive acting career.

The third annual Foo Foo Fest also takes place this month and offers a diverse array of arts and cultural activities. Check out our top picks and learn a little about the work local artists put into the event.

November has also gained popularity as a time to focus on men’s health. Events like No-Shave November and Movember bring awareness and much needed fundraising to men’s health issues. One local group, the Emerald Coast Beard and Mustache Alliance, offers fun and unique ways to enjoy beard culture and raise money for a good cause in the process. We’ve profiled them and a few bearded locals in honor of men’s health. Enjoy!

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Renew your subscription now online at www.ballingerpublishing. com: One year $14.95 and two years $22.75.

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contents NOVEMBER 2016

Page 10 with 10 deedee davis

34

pensacola scene 12 Its beginning to feel 17 a lot like Winterfest ‘Tis the Season 21 to be Thoughtful Abigail spencer: 25 Q+A with the Local Leading Lady

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free fall into foo foo fest 28 band of beards 34 PLAY • LIVE • GIVE 42

on the cover: Mark Rathbun photo by Guy Stevens

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MAGAZINE

NOVEMBER 2016 Owners

Malcolm & Glenys Ballinger

Publisher

Malcolm Ballinger malcolm@ballingerpublishing.com

Executive Editor

Kelly Oden kelly@ballingerpublishing.com

Art Director

Guy Stevens guy@ballingerpublishing.com

Graphic Designer/Ad Coordinator Anna Hitchcock anna@ballingerpublishing.com

Editor

Josh Newby josh@ballingerpublishing.com

Assistant Editor

Dawn Gresko dawn@ballingerpublishing.com

Editorial Intern

Malorie Eagles malorie@ballingerpublishing.com

Sales & Marketing Paula Rode, Account Executive ext. 28 paula@ballingerpublishing.com Geneva Strange, Account Executive ext. 21 geneva@ballingerpublishing.com

314 N. Spring St. | Pensacola, FL 32501 850.433.1166 | fax: 850.435.9174 ballingerpublishing.com Published by Ballinger Publishing:

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Member of:

NW Florida’s Business Climate Magazine and Pensacola Magazine is locally owned and operated. All Rights Reserved. Reproduction or use of the contents herein is prohibited without written permission from the publisher. Comments and opinions expressed in this magazine represent the personal views of the individuals to whom they are attributed and/or the person identified as the author of the article, and they are not necessarily those of the publisher. This magazine accepts no responsibility for these opinions. The publisher reserves the right to edit all manuscripts.

All advertising information is the responsibility of the individual advertiser.

Appearance in this magazine does not necessarily reflect endorsement of any products or services by Ballinger Publishing. Š 2016

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Page10 with DeeDee Davis

T

hanksgiving is one of my favorite holidays. How can anyone not love a holiday that focuses purely on gratitude and food? Thanksgiving reminds us to be appreciative of what we have and concentrate on what is really important, rather than nasty campaign ads and sandbox bully candidates. The problems will certainly be there the day after but taking the time to give thanks has a way of re-energizing you to handle the challenges that you face and make them more manageable.

The early Americans who celebrated Thanksgiving taught us a lot. First, though the Massachusetts pilgrims usually get the credit for the celebration, they certainly weren’t the only ones who took time out to offer thanks for the seasonal bounty. Earlier in Virginia they were already doing the same. The lesson is multi-faceted here, beginning with the fact that it’s not important who gets credit for the idea.

Thanksgiving wasn’t a national holiday until Abraham Lincoln said it was so. Another point to be made is that this was very much about survival.

All of the early celebrations were about the miracle of not starving to death. Too many prima donnas immigrated to this new world and not enough worker bees who were willing to roll up ye old shirt sleeves and farm the rich beds of seafood a stone’s throw from their villages. They would rather starve than get dirty or do anything labor intensive. And that is exactly what happened.

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Those fortunate enough to be around for the big feast learned their lesson and were grateful for the opportunity to develop calloused hands.

Thanksgiving is also about alliances and humanity. If the Native Americans had any idea of what was coming, I doubt they would have been quite so helpful. It’s amazing how humble and non-threatening you can be when you are hungry. I suppose the pilgrims felt they paid their debt to the very ones who helped to save them from oblivion by inviting them to share in their day of joy. For that brief moment in time issues such as territorial expansion and power and fear and distrust were put on the back burner and it was simply people giving thanks to God for helping hands, for sustenance and for deliverance.

The modern translation of Thanksgiving is not so different. Our version, of course, borders on pure gluttony but it remains a time to share with family and friends as all contribute to the feast.

As those before us understood, the food serves as a symbolic and welcome distraction. War in the Middle East? Pass the mashed potatoes, please.

While the basic re-creation of the holiday remains, all families have their own traditions as well. My sister’s grown children still recall times they spent the day (every other year) with their remarried father and his wife. She required that everyone at the table dress as a pilgrim or a Native American to “get in the spirit.” Now they howl about some of the costumes they had to endure, but at the time they were mortified. I can only

Jenn Cole + Gina Raymond

Tracy Durant + Kagan Jenkins

picture them sitting across the table from one another, William Bradford meets Pocahontas, as they giggled uncontrollably and were ultimately banished from the colony, or, in this case, the table. Imagining my pitiful wimpy ex-brother-inlaw dressed in anything other than camouflage, let alone FEATHERS, reminds me that there is justice in this world. I feel safe in saying this tradition will not be passed on to another generation.

Blended families clearly bring their own set of challenges into a holiday that is all about food. In our own family, we are open and adventuresome with our palette, but we are adamant about the dressing. Our very southern family would surrender to Sherman before they would serve anything other than cornbread stuffing. Yankees, on the other hand, offer up some substitute with God-knows-what as the base. We think it was bread but the texture was so unfamiliar that we shutter to think this might be the same thing we butter for breakfast.

Clearly, the Thanksgiving tradition is one to be cherished. It is the perfect occasion to blend history with family while adding your own personal touch. And regardless of what stuffing you serve, remember to be grateful for what you have. Bad times come and bad times go, but friends and family persevere. Happy Thanksgiving, everyone.

Part of my autumn tradition is to visit First City Art Center and Scott Novota’s studio

Wanda Radcliffe + Charles Gheen

The Bobby Likis Car Clinic Team

to select a new blown glass pumpkin for my collection. So many to choose from!!! Joe Hobbs helps lead the effort at First City Arts, where thousands are available at the annual pumpkin patch and none remain at the end of the day.

Exquisite craftsmanship. If you haven’t been, go next year. But a word to the wise- get there early.

The performing arts are in full swing now, as well. It is wonderful to have a smorgasbord of opportunities coming up so quickly involving our world-class Opera, Ballet Pensacola, Pensacola Little Theatre, Broadway series and Pensacola Symphony. The production of the Russian Grand Ballet Swan Lake held at the Saenger Theatre last month was as good as anything you will ever see in major markets such as New York or San Francisco. A full house had the rare opportunity to enjoy this international feast for the senses.

Congratulations to Lorenzo Aguilar and Brandi Gomez for another successful Council on Aging Rat Race. The popular 5K supports the Rat Race Reunion, which has turned into more of a season than an event. Lorenzo received plenty of help and advice from veteran race director Charles Gheen. Many of the runners and walkers don costumes as they take to the streets. It just happened to be a magnificent October day for the race and the after party that was held on the deck at the Fish House. Runners included Carl Sutherland; Gina Raymond; Jenn Cole; Michelle Ortiz-Miguez; John B. Clark; Eric Milstead and Steven Jones; Seth Durko; and Patrick Willi and Teresa Hess.

Later in the week, Teri Levin hosted the “High Roller” party for Rat Pack sponsors in her breathtakingly beautiful apartment on south Palafox Street. Brian Spencer designed the very urban space, and no detail was overlooked. Red roses were everywhere, a signature of the Rat Pack Gala. John Ripley entertained on piano as lavishly cocktail-attired guests enjoyed the entire setting.

All benefited the Council on Aging. Among those in attendance were Nels and Abbie Offerdahl; Brian and Susan Finger; Steve and Evan Jordan; John and Jerre Peacock; Tony and Bonita Jacobs; Julia Ussery; Roger and Raisa Webb; John and Marianne McMahon; and Diana Ripley.

The main event was held on Friday night as more than 400 guests turned out to further support the Council on Aging. Tom Tiratto,

Sinatra impersonator, and his big band played the timeless music during the evening that included an open bar, Italian dinner by Gus Silivos that was delicious, dancing, roasting and toasting.

Congrats to my fellow rats Ray Russenberger, Joe Durant, and Sheriff David Morgan who sang one of the best renditions of “That’s Life” ever. Cheers to so many who worked to make the evening special, but especially to event chairs Pete and Angela Moore. Charlie and Fran Switzer will chair next year, so expect more fun and surprises.

Best wishes also go out to Mackenzie Steber and Rhys Rinke who were married at Our Lady of the Assumption Catholic Church on Oct. 15.

More than 300 guests joined them afterwards at Portofino Island Resort for the celebratory reception held out doors overlooking the beautiful sound. It was picture perfect with roses and blush hydrangeas, endless champagne and a four-layer cake with fresh flowers that stood taller than I am.

Rick Outzen and his not so Independent News held another lively party celebrating his highly coveted Best of the Coast awards. It was a record-breaking crowd, as more than 500 people representing businesses who won the awards turned out at Vinyl Music Hall.

More happiness and well wishes go to David and Jessica Pickett, who are expecting their first child, baby Skylynn, soon. Jessica is the daughter of Jim Neal, whose wife Ann hosted a totally pink baby shower for the mom-to-be. Certainly

not like any other baby shower I have attended, this one featured a Betty Weber cake along with sumptuous heavy hors d’oeuvres by Classic City Catering. The bride’s young friends “oohed” and “ahhhed” every bib and diaper while, let’s just say the older part of the crowd, sipped champagne and were thankful they didn’t have to go through it again.

November Birthdays 1 Sandy Cesseretti Ray 14 Buddy Powell 21 Judi Johnson 25 Beej Davis 30 Diane Somer

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pensacolascene who/what/when/where

Sartorial SoirÉe September 30 Pensacola Country Club Benefiting Ballet Pensacola’s Dance Chance Scholarship Program Josiah White + Scarlett Rustemeyer

Alli Skelton + Mollye Barows-Vigodsky

Rus Calhoun + Alfred Luckett

Vicki Bordelon + Meagan Stead

Kathy Phillips + Jean Nelson

Susan Finger

Megan Cronin + Katie Taylor

Lyn Harrison + Joey Mounce

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pensacolascene who/what/when/where

“High Roller” Ratpack sponsor party October 19 Held in Teri Levin’s Beautiful Loft in Downtown Pensacola

Brian Spencer + Sheriff David Morgan

John + Jerre Peacock, Tracy + Joe Durant

Diane Ripley, Teri Levin + Jerre Peacock

Kilah Poitevint + Cameron Cauley

Roger + Raisa Webb

Ray Russenberger, Joe Durant, DeeDee Davis + Sheriff David Morgan

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pensacolascene who/what/when/where Jukebox Gala

BJ Davis + Glenys Ballinger

Marylyn Hereford + Annette Smith

Dr. Rick Harper & Lisa Minshew

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impact 100 awards

Ann + Herb Wohl

Impact 100 winners ARC Gateway

Impact 100 winners St. Johns Cemetery Foundation

It’s Beginning to Look a lot Like Winterfest Written by Malorie Eagles Photos by Anna Hitchcock

A

ll aboard! The trolley bells are ringing, welcoming all to Winterfest Pensacola. Scarecrows and jack-o-lanterns are tucked away as the streets of Downtown Pensacola are decked with tinsel and holly. The annual event frosts the town from the Historic Seville to the Palafox Business districts with favorite holiday characters and festivities. pensacola magazine | 17

It’s Beginning to Look a lot Like Winterfest “Elves spend their year in preparation, making toys and helping Santa with the details that make the holiday season special,” said Chief Elf Denise Daughtry, president of Winterfest of Pensacola, Inc. “My favorite job is organizing the fun.”

Winterfest’s premier Performance Tour is a guided Christmas musical experience, where the audience journeys to each scene on a restored red trolley. Singing hosts transform the trolley into their

“Most of our volunteers are Navy students and church groups,” said Daughtry.

“New elves are always welcome.” stage on this 16-performance, 60-minute adventure.

Downtown Pensacola and the unique sets and props serve as the perfect, magical backdrop.

Candycane, Gingerbread, Peppermint, Snowflake, and

Frosty are the trolleys that await to whisk you into the world of wonder. You can choose your trolley and get to know your conductor when you purchase tickets.

For eight nights from Thanksgiving to Christmas, Elvis, The Polar Express, and the Grinch will spread holiday cheer. With the addition of characters to the “Christmas Carol” and the added elements to the “Grinch” and “Polar Express” performances, the 2016 tour is sure to be the most festive yet. The Performance Tours run on Nov. 25 to 26, Dec. 2 to 3, 9, and 16 to 18.

“Every year new props are added,” said Daughtry. “Money is spent on special things which make the event more enjoyable for everyone.”

This year, Winterfest is debuting the show during the Performance Tour Preview on Nov. 20. Bring the entire family for a sneak preview of the wonderful Performance Tour the weekend before Thanksgiving. At $12 per ticket ($7 for kids 10 and under), the kickoff tour is offered at the lowest price of the season.

Ms. Winterfest + Santa Claus show off their festive frocks in preparation for the upcoming holiday season

Find out if you’ve been naughty or nice on Santa’s Holiday Express Tour with the jolliest elf of all—Santa Claus himself!

This 25-minute tour runs every night from Dec. 19 to 23 and highlights the best of the Performance Tour. This tour is perfect for young children and out of town guests to get a glimpse of Christmas past, present, and future.

After the Performance Tour,

cruise into Plaza Wonderland to watch a show on the stage and play some Reindeer Games. Frolic in the snow machine to turn into a snowman and throw snowballs at the nasty wasty skunk, Mr. Grinch. Follow the dancing reindeer for some freestyling freeze-dance fun with Dasher, Dancer, Prancer, and Blitzen.

The reindeer will all shout out with glee when you join in these activities that are free for all and available every night of the regular Performance Tour Schedule. Reindeer Games start at 5 pm on Fridays and 5:30 on Saturdays and Sundays.

Warm up with some gourmet hot cocoa and a cookie at the Gingerbread House, or visit the hotdog stand. Of course, if you would like to enjoy a sit-down meal, stroll over to one of the many restaurants Downtown Pensacola has to offer.

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No holiday event is complete without a visit with Santa.

Visit Santa Claus in his sleigh at the corner of Government Street and Palafox Place in Plaza Wonderland every night of the Performance Tour to tell Santa all of your holiday wishes and to have one of Santa’s elves take a special souvenir photo to commemorate all of the fun of Winterfest.

Winterfest officially kicks off on Nov. 25 at 4:30 pm with their grand celebration, Light Up the Night, and the Pensacola Elf Parade.

Pa rum pum pum pum!

That is the sound of the alligator “second line” brass band that will lead the Elf Parade through Downtown Pensacola. Parade Grand Marshall Christian Garman of WEAR-TV 3 will be joined by costumed kids, parents, Santa, and characters from the Winterfest Performance Tour for the 20-minute march, which includes a Christmas song battle and tumbling snowflakes. The four-block route begins behind the T.T. Wentworth Museum and winds to Plaza Wonderland at Palafox and Government Streets.

Every elf needs some pointy ears! Don’t forget to visit Winterfest’s website to print your elf ear coloring sheet, so you can decorate your very own ears. Make sure to wear your elvish best for the elf parade, as there will be a costume contest.

Parade members will gather in Plaza Wonderland at 5 pm for the grand Light Up the Night ceremony. Santa will light the Christmas tree in the square and ring in the first snowfall

of the season. Special guests will join Santa around the tree to perform a musical review of favorite Christmas carols.

Downtown gets very crowded this time of year, but don’t fret. There is plenty of parking available. The elves will be your wonderfully festive valet system for Winterfest.

Park Pink with Winterfest for $5 to get a parking space near the event, to support local nonprofits, and to help Winterfest put on a spectacular event. Keep an eye out for any pink parking signs near the event. Your taxdeductible parking donation also serves as a $1 off coupon for Rudolph’s Holiday Stroll during every weekend of Winterfest—just hang onto your official Winterfest parking receipt.

“Most of our volunteers are Navy students and church groups,” said Daughtry. “New elves are always welcome.”

Winterfest is made possible by the cheery volunteers who help put the event together. If you would like to become one of Santa’s helpers, please call 850.583.1365 to get involved.

Are you dreaming of a white Christmas? Winterfest sprinkles some holiday magic over sunny Downtown Pensacola and is sure to be a holly, jolly time for the whole family. For more information about the Winterfest’s wonderful event, or for tickets, pricing, and show times, visit pensacolawinterfest.org.

Festival Events Performance Tour Preview Night Nov. 20 Craving an early dose of Christmas spirit? Get an exclusive first look at your favorite holiday characters at their most improvisational. You won’t want to miss the lowestpriced night of the tour season.

Elf Parade Nov. 25 March alongside fun characters, a brass band, and Santa during this 20-minute opening-day parade around Downtown Pensacola. Join in the Christmas song battle and marvel at the tumbling snowflakes! Kids who come dressed in their best elf outfit can enter the costume contest. Lineup begins at 3:30 pm behind the T.T. Wentworth Museum.

Light Up the Night Nov. 25 O, Christmas tree, o Christmas tree! Join Santa in Plaza Wonderland at 5 pm as he rings in the holiday season with his special singing guests. Santa will light the grand Christmas Tree and declare the first official snowfall of the season.

Performance Tour Nov. 25–Dec. 18 Capture some winter magic with Elvis, The Polar Express, the Grinch, and Mr. Scrooge on the Winterfest Performance Tour. Once you climb aboard the refurbished red trolley, the rest of the show comes to you!

Santa’s Express Tour Dec. 19–23 Enjoy a special 25-minute version of the Performance Tour that is perfect for little elves and out of town guests. As a special treat, Santa Claus himself will be on board to guide the tour.

Reindeer Games Nov. 26–26, Dec. 2–3, 9, 16–18 No reindeer or elf gets left out of these games! Join Dasher, Dancer, Prancer, and Blitzen in the Freeze Dance and play in the snow machine.

Visit Santa Nov. 25–26, Dec. 2–3, 9, 16–18 Santa will be flying into Plaza Wonderland on his sleigh for a very special visit. Tell him all of your holiday wishes and have your photo taken for a perfect holiday keepsake of Winterfest 2016.

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‘Tis the Season to Be Thoughtful “Volunteers do not necessarily have the time: they have the heart.”

-Elizabeth Andrew The holiday season is a time of reflection and giving, whether it is the giving of gifts, thanks, kind words, financial support, or time. This year, gather the entire family to give a little bit back to the Pensacola community. Clean out your closets and toy chests, spend an afternoon serving food to the less fortunate, or spread some holiday cheer to children in the hospital. Volunteering is not only a rewarding experience, but an opportunity to gain new skills and to grow in love and generosity. There is no shortage of people in need and ways to get involved in Escambia County. – written by Malorie Eagles

Give the Gift of Christmas Morning

The Salvation Army’s Angel Tree

Toys for Tots

onbikes Pensacola

Onbikes Pensacola is a non-profit organization that is dedicated to buying and building bikes for foster care children.

The group will be giving at least 100 bikes to children in foster care and Guardian ad Litem this Christmas. The bikes will be assembled on Dec. 10 at Sacred Heart Hospital. The group is hosting the “Winter Wonder Ride,” a slow bike ride and Christmas celebration in Downtown Pensacola, on Dec. 17. You can get involved by donating to their Eventbrite page, buying a ticket to the “Winter Wonder Ride,” or volunteering to build the bikes. For more information about upcoming events, visit onbikespensacola, inc. on Facebook.

The Angel Tree program allows community members to provide new clothing and toys for children in need in their own area. The Salvation Army collects clothing sizes and toy wish lists, along with the child’s first name, age, and sex, from all of the children in families who have applied for Christmas assistance.

The paper “angels” are then created and dispersed to generous shoppers in the area. After purchasing some or all of the wished items, the gifts are returned to the Angel Tree. To select an angel off of the tree and to drop off gifts, visit the local Salvation Army location at 1501 N. Q St. If your organization or business would like to sponsor an Angel Tree, please call 850.432.1501.

The Marine Toys for Tots Foundation began collecting toys for children in need in 1947. Since then, they have donated over half a billion gifts to pre-teens across the country. During your holiday shopping, interested donors can drop off a new, unwrapped toy to the Toys “R” Us in University Town Plaza. A variety of items, including sporting equipment, books, cosmetic sets, and electronics can be accepted, but please no realistic-looking weapons or food items. Toys for Tots is also looking for volunteers to help with meals, transportation and storage of toys, and help in the local warehouse. To fill out a volunteer form, visit pensacola-fl. toysfortots.org.

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‘Tis the Season to Be Thoughtful Fill A Belly Manna Food Pantries’ Fill the Mayflower

Come out and stuff the trucks with donations from food and cash during Manna’s annual Fill the Mayflower event.

Manna Food Pantries is a local, non-profit organization that serves the food-related needs of Pensacola. Fill the Mayflower will

medications, and medical supplies are always greatly needed and appreciated.

Shelter donations can be dropped off at 348 W. Herman St. For a full list of needed items, visit waterfrontmission. org. If you are interested in volunteering to serve a meal during the holidays, call 850.429.0656 to speak with a holiday volunteer coordinator.

Ronald McDonald House Charities of Northwest Florida Help provide a home-away-from-home for the holidays for families of critically ill children by volunteering at the Ronald McDonald House of Northwest Florida. be held on Monday, Nov. 21 from 5 am to Volunteers help 7 pm and Tuesday, Nov. 22 from 7 am to with household 7 pm. The Mayflower trucks, provided by chores, cooking Coastal Moving & Storage, will be located and serving at Cordova Mall between Village Inn and home-cooked Red Lobster. meals, decorating, and yardwork. After a long day spent at the hospital, families are grateful to come home to a hot meal and Loaves and Fishes Soup Kitchen a cheerful house. The Volunteer Services Established in 1983, Loaves and Fishes manager can be reached at 850.477.2273 Soup Kitchen aims to serve the spiritual to match you with your perfect job. and material needs of homeless men, During the holiday season, they also set up women, and children in Santa’s Workshop with items such as new Pensacola. They provide clothing items, board games, and costume many services, including a jewelry, for families to “shop” from for kitchen and dining room, Christmas gifts for their family. The full a shelter, transitional wish list can be found at rmhc-nwfl.org. housing, a parent-child center, and a thrift store, so there are a multitude of volunteer positions available.

For more information on how to donate or volunteer, visit loavesandfishessoupkitchen. Arc Gateway com or call 850.438.7616. Donations of Established in 1954, Arc Gateway provides clothing, household items, and vehicles life-enhancing programs to those with can be accepted at 257 E. Lee St. intellectual and developmental disabilities. This Waterfront Rescue Mission holiday season, Many in Pensacola are left homeless each purchase your year due to poor finances, job loss, and poinsettias from Arc mental illness.

Gateway to support Since 1949, the dreams of the children and adults they Waterfront serve. You can pre-order your holiday Rescue poinsettia today at arc-gateway.org. In Mission has addition, when you shop on smile.amazon. fought against com, Amazon will make a donation to Arc homelessness Gateway. and poverty by providing homeless community members with a hot meal, warm shower, and clean clothing. New socks and underwear, new or gently used clothing, along with hygiene products,

Spread Some Cheer

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Studer Family Children’s Hospital at Sacred Heart There are countless ways to spread some cheer to the pediatric patients at Sacred Heart. Donations of washable toys (no violent themes), games, books, video games, electronics, arts and crafts supplies, fun Band-Aids, gift cards, and handmade items help keep up the spirits of the children that are away from home. Teens and adults alike can volunteer in the playroom and provide clerical support. Adults volunteers can read to the children at their bedside, play with the art cart, build Beads of Courage necklaces with the kids, or swaddle and rock newborns in the NICU. The Volunteer Office can be reached at 850.416.5730.

Gulf Coast Kids House This non-profit advocacy group serves victims of child abuse in Escambia County by taking on child abuse cases, caring for the victims, and providing mental health counseling. Volunteers help to keep household operations running smoothly

by cleaning and sanitizing toys, sorting donations, preparing packets for upcoming meetings, and by washing donated clothing items. Helpers can also provide sweets and decorate the house for the holidays, among many other tasks. They are always accepting donations for Jane’s Closet, their initiative to provide necessities to children who are placed in their care. To learn how to get involved, call Gulf Coast Kids House at 850.595.5800.

YOUTH ART PROGRAMS & FALL ART CLASSES AFTER-SCHOOL & HOMESCHOOL CLASSES GRADES 1ST-12TH January 3- March 10 March 28- May 25 Make A Birthday Party, Team-Building, Or Holiday Party Memorable With Glassblowing Or Pottery!

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Abigail Spencer Q+A with the Local Leading Lady by josh Newby

A

bigail Spencer, star of such television hits as Timeless and Rectify and movies like This Is Where I Leave You and Oz the Great and Powerful, is a native of Gulf Breeze who has made it big time. With an infectious smile and a buoyancy that can only come from spending one’s formative years on the best beaches in the world, Spencer is an instant charmer, moving effortlessly from drama to comedy, from talking about her upbringing to discussing her ambitious future.

Her father, Yancy Spencer III, was a well-known surfer who instilled in his value of hard work, commitment, and staying true to your roots. We in Northwest Florida should be proud that she has taken those values to Hollywood and is lighting up both the small and big screens. ›

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Abigail Spencer: Q + A with the Local Leading Lady Tell me about your life in Gulf Breeze.

I miss Pensacola and Gulf Breeze. And the weather this time of year is just perfect.

Some of my most fond memories involve feeling that slight chill in the air, hearing off in the distance the sound of Friday night games. I don’t guess I had a typical upbringing because of my dad. Having Innerlight as our family business really integrated us all into the community. Our complete existence was based on having the community in our life. If it wasn’t for the area, we wouldn’t have food. I’m very grateful for an experience like that. I loved living and being in that area.

As a surfing family, we should’ve lived somewhere else, honestly, but we loved being on the Gulf Coast. My dad visited me a couple times in LA, and he always said he couldn’t wait to get back to Pensacola.

I’m proud of being from the Gulf Coast, dedicated to these roots. He made us ingratiated in the area, and he wanted that for his kids.

When you live a counterculture life, like surfing, there’s not a separation from who you are and what you do. It’s the same thing

“

Abigail as Lucy in NBC’s Timeless

How did you get involved in acting?

I lived the life. As a young kid, I thought

I was the real deal. So there was really no separation between amateur and professional. The only transition was people started paying me to do it.

The Pensacola area is very supportive of arts, with places like the Little Theatre, Saenger, Children’s Chorus and more.

One week I was playing Rizzo in Grease, the next week I started on All My Children.

You can’t do it alone, though that would be very interesting. So I bring my ever-growing community with me. I have a pretty tight group of friends since I was in my formative years and we’re still friends.

Tell me about Timeless.

I’ve been acting professionally for 18 years now. It’s just another chapter of that. I was in Rectify for four years. Before Mad Men, I was in eight different network pilots, so I knew what I was getting into with this.

I felt like the team behind Timeless was a

I’m proud of being from the Gulf Coast, dedicated to these roots. He made us ingratiated in the area, and he wanted that for his kids.” with acting. My dad actually thought I was going go be a surfer (I started when I was 3) but my mom wanted to save my skin, so I traveled with him to surf contests, but I went to dance classes and did high school theatre shows. And so that became my life, like surfing was his life. The hours are so weird that it has to be your life.

I learned from my dad to follow the surf.

You know, he would have to travel where the surf is. In a way, I’m still doing that.

I’m following the surf, following the work.

It takes me all over, but Gulf Breeze is still with me and is still a huge part of who I am.

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This industry is sink or swim, and I’ve sunk plenty. So I just grab it and see what happens.

You said your dad engrained in you the values of community.

How has that translated to showbiz?

To me, community is everything and I remain a community with everyone I grew up with. They are a huge part of what made me. I still keep in touch with people like Katy Mixon (American Housewife) who of course has her own show now which is so cool. That’s what I look for in my work now.

My community is my other actors and other creatives. You know, acting is a team sport.

Abigail in The Haunting of Conneticut 2

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good time to try network television. It is very challenging, but it’s all story telling.

And I feel like the character is worth it. I love my character Lucy. We get to go to a different era every episode, so it’s easy to stay energized and stay inspired. I’m certainly never bored.

You’ve done some alternative comedy too. What is attractive about that?

I’ve done Children’s Hospital, Comedy Bang Bang, Burning Love, and honestly that community asks me to do stuff. I don’t know why they keep asking me.

I guess I’m not really an outside, but it started with David Wain and Children’s Hospital. The whole concept behind that world is that you get into the sandbox and you become immersed in that humor.

It’s very cool. I’m completely obsessed with comedy.

So do you come back to the area often?

Well right now I’m in Vancouver shooting Timeless. I was in Georgia with Rectify. I honestly don’t come back that often, though I was there twice this past summer. You know, for a while, it was very painful to come back. I lost my dad and my grandparents about five years ago.

I’d come back and see the surf culture, the shops, the Innerlight stickers, and it was all just a brutal reminder that he wasn’t here. But now I’m grateful for those things. The entire Pensacola area is like one big homage to his life. I hope there are far more opportunities for me to come home in the future. My son loves it.

So as soon as they make it a little easier to fly to and from Pensacola, I’ll be there.

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Foo foo fest Pensacola’s Annual Assortment of Area Attractions

by Dawn Gresko

By now, we all know what Foo Foo means: it’s the 12-day celebration spanning the first quarter of November from the 3 to 14, when the fresh, Florida fall weather finally starts to roll in. The annual event features our area’s finest attractions from existing to new, culturally creative happenings, which all fall under one big banner: Foo Foo Fest. You might find it hard to believe that a festival as large as Foo Foo is organized by a small committee of six members with Pensacola Art, Entertainment and Culture, Inc. (ACE). Of course, ACE couldn’t do it without the help of creative agencies like Hummingbird Ideas and Deveney, who aid in marketing and campaign efforts. This year, as many as 21 organizations received grants from ACE to make their events bigger and better for 2016: there were six mega-grants ($10,000 or above) and 15 mini-grants ($10,000 or under) awarded.

One of the six to receive a mega-grant were artists Ashton Howard and Evan Levin, who are bringing something new to the grand Foo Foo table this year: the Jefferson Parking Garage Live Painting Event, a permanent art installation for the community to enjoy for generations to come. Expect the unexpected in new performances

by Ballet Pensacola, Pensacola Little Theatre, Pensacola Symphony Orchestra, Pensacola Opera, and several other voices of the performing arts. Unlike traditional festivals, Foo Foo Fest does not take place in a single location but many. If you’re having Foo Foo FOMO, don’t worry: the all-new Foo Foo Fest app makes it easy to stay on schedule and track down all the events you want to attend so you won’t miss a single experience. All this and much more at Pensacola’s annual assortment of area attractions: Foo Foo Fest! *The list of Foo Foo festivities is practically limitless—however, we had to limit them to the following pages. For a complete compilation of Foo Foo Fest happenings, or to learn more about how to get your event listed, check out foofoofest.com.

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Rocky Horror Picture Show Nov. 3 – 5 Oh, Rocky! You heard right, The Rocky Horror Picture Show is making waves at the Pensacola Little Theatre stage for the first days of Foo Foo Fest from Nov. 3 to 5. PLT and Appetite 4 Life are teaming up to present Richard O’Brien’s The Rocky Horror Picture Show, a live stage production that inspired the cult favorite film starring Tim Curry: The Rocky Horror Picture Show. Dress up, or dress down—either way, make sure you make it to what is guaranteed to be an unforgettable theatric experience. The lobby and bar will be open two hours prior to curtain for libations and frivolity. Drinks, snacks and show props will also be available for purchase. For diehard fans, PLT and A4L are hosting VIP events during which you get to meet the stars, snap a picture or three, get an autograph, and get premium seating to the show.

Tickets are $35 for general admission and range $75 to $125 for VIP. pensacolalittletheatre.com

The 32nd Annual Frank Brown International Songwriters’ Festival Nov. 3 – 13 Are you musically inclined, or just have a story you’re dying to tell through the verses of your song? The 32nd annual Frank Brown International Songwriters’ Festival might just be where you need to be. The festival will feature more than 200 nationally acclaimed songwriters in as many as 30 venues along the Florida and Alabama Gulf Coast from Nov. 3 to 13. The

festival provides an opportunity to both aspiring and seasoned songwriters and musicians from all over the world who want to have their songs heard, as well as offer the public a chance to learn the stories behind the lyrics that only the song’s true author can express. This exciting 11day festivals will feature performers from venues in Downtown Pensacola and Perdido Key, Fla., to Orange Beach, Gulf Shores, Bon Secour and Silverhill, Ala. The festival is dedicated to the late Frank Brown, who was a night watchman at the Flora-Bama for 28 years. Mr. Frank, as he was known by all, was 91 years old when he retired and was featured on Paul Harvey syndicated radio show, “The Rest of the Story.”

Ticket prices vary according to venue, so check out the Frank Brown International Songwriters’ Festival for more details. frankbrownsongwriters.com

offer a fossil workshop on site for Veteran’s Day, Nov. 11. Participants will dig through fossilrich Eocene marine sediment, remnants of the variety of animals that lived in shallow tropical seas that covered much of current Florida and Alabama approximately 50 million years ago.

The program is included with admission, which is $8 per person, but space is limited so preregistration is recommended. pensacolamesshall.org

Back on the Blocks Nov. 4 – 5 It’s time to head Back on the Blocks and travel back in time to the 60s and 70s for the two-day festival in the Belmont-Devilliers neighborhood from Nov. 4 to 5 filled with culture, music, fun, family and food! In the 1800s, “The Blocks” were known as the black business, entertainment and cultural district in the city of Pensacola—or the “Harlem of the South.”

Today, it still holds claim to being the center of artistic and cultural renaissance as an economic resurgence. Enjoy the Block Party main event by celebrating the 70s with a ‘That’s So 70s” costume contest and Soul Train Line, dancing in tune with the melodious, Motown sounds of Real Love Entertainment—the 2016 featured artist and main-stage event. Film buffs can check out the one-day screening and viewing of legendary greats in film, videos, musicals and short documentaries on the African-American culture in the Soulful Shorts Film Fest. Other attractions include the muscle cars and cycles of the 60s and 70s at the Antique Car & Cycle Show, various heritage impressionists and more artists at G.R.A.P.H.I.C.S For S.H.O.W., the public mural project known as Artblocks, jam

Science on the Street Nov. 3 – 14 Are you ready to be blinded by science?

Pensacola MESS Hall is proud to present Science on the Street as part of Foo Foo Fest 2016 from Nov. 3 to 14. From Palafox to Garden and Main streets, ordinary sidewalks will be transformed to a stroll through science.

Anchoring the exploration will be a geologic timeline, highlighting notable events during the Earth’s 4.5 billion years of history. Exhibits will range from a dinosaur that appears to follow you with his head to a shimmer wall and vortex cannon, as well as a large-scale Newton’s cradle. Bring your body and your brain to try out some illusions and puzzles, too. To enhance the geological exploration, MESS Hall will also

Day of the Dead Community Mural For the first time ever, Art Beyond Walls and First City Art Center (FCAC) joined forces to host the Day of the Dead festival on Nov. 3, for the opening day of Pensacola’s Foo Foo Fest.

A traditional holiday in Mexico, the main Day of the Dead event and pre-event activities included various ways to celebrate and honor family members who have passed away.

On Oct. 29, Preston Snell and Nate Lyle led the team of artists in making the Day of the Dead Community Mural Wall, which took up twice as much space as last year’s mural—stretching 100 feet long and 10 feet high on the Gonzalez and Tarragona Street side of FCAC’s building.

On Nov. 1, the public was invited to contribute photos and other memorabilia to the installation as part of a four-hour ceremony.

As part of one pre-event activity, and to further promote awareness about the Day of the Dead mural, Preston and a group of six artists painted over the Pensacola Graffiti Bridge following the holiday theme.

The event boasted an eclectic array of entertainment from live music, face painting, a second-line processional, food trucks and hot glass demos to live story recordings, plus plenty of activities for the kiddos as well as a Day of the Dead art market.

The main mural at FCAC, which will be on display year-round, was made up of an embedded altar surrounded by photos of loved ones decorated in festive Day-of-the-Dead painted frames—all a cohesive connection to the overarching theme of celebrating life and everything that comes after.

“The best thing about this project is it’s not just the artists but also the community who helps complete the art,” explained Preston Snell, one of the leading Day of the Dead mural artists who also works with Art Beyond Walls. “It’s an outlet for community creativity, where everyone gets an equal part in the celebration and contribution to the mural.”

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Foo foo fest sessions with Beats on the Blocks, as well as the story of African-American culture through dance, music, prose and art in the Roots, Rhythm and Movement. backontheblocks.com

The Great Gulf Coast Arts Festival Nov. 4 – 6 Taking over Seville Square for the weekend of Nov. 4 through 6 is one of the most popular arts festivals in the United States: The Great Gulf Coast Arts Festival. This three-day juried art show draws more than 200 of the nation’s top-notch painters, potters, sculptors, jewelers, graphic artists, craftsmen (and women) as well as an assortment of other artists. There will be live musicians hitting the right notes on the Main Stage with sounds ranging from bluegrass to Cajun and blues to jazz and classical. Performing companies, dance schools, community groups, and area folk groups will also have their chance to shine. Hundreds of craft artists will be demonstrating traditional arts, crafts and trades, including blacksmithing, engraving, spinning, weaving and other skills in the special Heritage Arts area. Children will become artists at the Children’s Arts Festival with numerous hands-on art activities. That’s not to mention the traditional treats and regional food favorites plus various drink choices that will be available to satisfy every taste. Admission is absolutely free. ggaf.com

Clean Energy Festival and Future of Energy Art Exhibition Nov. 5 Join 350 Pensacola on the back lawn of the T.T. Wentworth Museum and J. Earle Bowden Building to celebrate the future of clean energy on Nov. 5 from 11 am to 5 pm. This year, the arts and science event will feature an electric car showcase including Tesla models, a tiny house, solar panel demonstrations, an art competition, poetry readings, music, as well as plenty of food and beverages to go around. This is a family-friendly event and children are welcome to participate in an array of art and science activities culminating with s’mores cooked in a solar over—yum! The Future of Energy Art Exhibition is a pop-up exhibit bringing together artists, engineers, urban planners, architects, environmental scientists and others to provide a space for the exchange of innovative ideas related to clean energy. This year boasts special guest poet, and Goldman Environmental Prize winner, Hilton Kelly who will speak at 12:30 pm.

Live music and performances throughout the day will include Belmont Youth Band, String Farm Band, and regional favorite Sassafrass, as well as performers from Dansartery, and so many more.

This event is free admission. world.350.org/pensacola

Jazz for Justice Nov. 6 Join the Legal Service of North Florida (LSNF) on the 400 block of South Palafox Street for live music and dancing fun on Nov. 6 from 4 to 7 pm. There will also be an exclusive silent auction featuring the best refreshments from one of the event sponsors,

The Bodacious Family of Shops. Purchase patron tickets for exclusive entry to a VIP Champagne Concert from 3 to 4 pm. All ticket proceeds go to the LSNF cause; Jazz for Justice has raised more than $525,000 for LSNF, dedicated to providing no-cost civil legal representation to domestic violence victims, children, the elderly, oil-spill victims and families in danger of poverty and losing their homes. General admission is $10 or free for children under the age of 12. VIP Patron packages are $100 per person. jazzforjustice.org

Storytelling Circle: An Evening of African Oral Traditions Nov. 6 Everyone has a story to tell, but none tell it quite like award-winning and internationally-renowned storyteller, Diane Ferlatte, who will make an appearance at UWF’s Center for Performing Arts Music Hall on Nov. 6 from 7 to 9 pm. Gather around the African-American Heritage Society story-telling circle as we watch Ferlatte do what she does best—using the most traditional form of communication to deliver and perform a series of multicultural stories with an emphasis on the African-American experience. Experience a story like never before with Ferlatte’s oral stories composed to be performed through song and dance. Ferlatte will be aided by acapella vocalists, props—and you, the audience! This is a familyfriendly event in which listeners of all ages are encouraged to come out to enjoy Ferlatte’s interactive show. Don’t miss your chance to be part of the story and start your own story-telling traditions. Tickets are $7 per person at the door. aahspensacola.org

spreading the love: Back on the Blocks with Real Love Headlining this year’s Back on the Blocks Festival is the Motown sounds of Real Love Entertainment. In addition to the three lead vocalists, Rene Fleury, Cornelious “CC” Celestine, and Nathaniel Brooks, Jr., whose vocal ranges cover first to second tenor as well as baritone and bass, the band has six instrumentalists including horns to give it that big, booming sound. For over 15 years, the New Orleans-based band has been spreading the love with the best on- and off-stage productions, whether assisting in marketing and planning or tailoring performances to fit a custom theme for a show. Pensacola Magazine caught up with the trio to discuss Real Love and what to expect at their Back on the Blocks show on Nov. 5.

Any special meaning behind the name of your group?

We called the organization in Real Love Entertainment, because we really want to make the audience feel the way we feel about the music.

Love is real and music is a universal language that 30 | pensacola magazine

can express that. We want to show the world there is love through music because music transcends all of it—nationalities, demographics, gender—music transcends it all.

Who has inspired your sound?

Just about anything from the 60s, 70s, and 80s. Of course, we grew up on the Motown sound. Musicians who inspired us include The Temptations, Smokey Robinson, Marvin Gaye, Otis Redding, and so many more.

What can we expect at your show for the Back on the Blocks Festival?

The theme of Back on the Blocks is “The Best of the 70s” and we think that fits right in with what we do. We’ll be bringing the audience back to the 70s, so we certainly hope they enjoy the trip down memory lane. This our first time showing Pensacola the talent of Real Love Entertainment.

We’re certain it won’t be the last time.

Ballet Pensacola: Wizards and Warriors Nov. 10 – 13 Do you fancy yourself a wonderful wizard or warrior? A master of the mystical or might? If you’re not sure, now’s the time to discover your inner wizard or warrior by delving into the Ballet Pensacola’s enchanted world brimming with fantastical spells of wizards and the majestic might of warriors. Feel the magic and defy reality with an epic battle of good vs. evil in this original dance production by Ballet Pensacola’s artistic director Richard Steinert: Wizards and Warriors. Steinert has a long creative history with more than 35 original ballets in his repertoire.

All shows will be performed inside the Pensacola Cultural Center at Pensacola Little Theatre with performances running from Nov. 10 to 13. Shows begin at 7:30 pm, except on Sunday, Nov. 13, when the show starts at 2:30 pm. Tickets to this bewitchingly magical show range $22 to $34. balletpensacola.com

Writing Off the Walls Nov. 10 – 13 The West Florida Literary Federation (WFLF)’s Writing Off the Walls event series is promoting and nurturing literary talent in Northwest Florida in partnership with Foo Foo Festival and Art Beyond Walls from Nov. 10 to 13. Prepare to be inspired by spontaneous literary performances as words are taken to the streets with pop-up poetry by local authors and Graffiti Bridge Art. Poet Barbara Henning and creative writer Lewis Warsh will host book readings, signings and literary workshops. Both book readings and signings by Henning and Warsh are free and open to the public at Artel Gallery; Henning will be at the gallery on Nov. 10 from 7 to 8:30 pm, while Warsh will be there on Nov. 11. Workshops will be hosted at the J. Earle Bowden Building from 10 am to 12 pm and cost $25 to attend; Henning’s workshop will be held Nov. 11, and Warsh will host his workshop Nov. 12. Also, don’t miss out on getting to know the two authors even better as Northwest Florida Poet Laureate Jamey Jones interviews Henning and Walsh over a special Sunday brunch on Nov. 13 from 10 am to 12 pm in the J. Earle Bowden Building (for a

A Masterpiece in the making

Plan Your Foo Foo Fest Experience 1. Download the app on your Smartphone from either Google Play App or Apple Store.

Open the app to create a profile, which allows you to share photos, messages and connect with other festival-goers on social media.

2. Customize your event lineup by adding events to your “Favorites.”

As part of a special live painting event with Foo Foo Fest, Ashton Howard and Evan Levin put their creative minds and brushes together to complete a large-scale public mural spanning the length of the Jefferson Street parking garage.

The project was one of six to receive a megagrant (of over $10,000) from Art, Culture and Entertainment, Inc. (ACE) of Pensacola to help fund the creative costs.

Ash and Evan have collaborated in the past on the smaller, interactive mural for Foo Foo Fest 2015 called “Fly Like Foo Foo,” which featured a pair of giant wings that passerbys could pose in front of for photo mementos. Murals are nothing new to Ash, whose works are featured on the walls of restaurants and surf shops along the West Coast in California, and painting comes naturally to Evan—who graduated from Ringling College of Art and Illustration in 2002.

No spray cans or graffiti art here. The artists will be using strictly brushes and rollers to

apply an incredibly long-lasting exterior acrylic paint by Nova Color. The mural is intended to be a permanent installation, which is why Ash and Evan decided to use only paints by Nova Color—a company whose paints were golden standards back in the 1950s, when most billboards were painted by hand.

The new 3,000-square-foot mural on the east side of Jefferson parking garage will feature numerous local landmarks and well-known Pensacola icons ranging from Fort Pickens and Pensacola Lighthouse to depictions of the Blue Angels and figures from our city’s storied past like Tristan DeLuna.

“To tell the story of Pensacola, we realized we had to include main icons that are part of our city’s history,” said Ashton Howard. “But, once we start painting, I think we’ll have a lot of fun expanding off the original idea by adding more elements that organically come to us as we work.”

Click the drop-down tab in the top left corner and select “Events.” Click the star icon next to an event you want to attend to add it to your “Favorites” list.

3. Set up a reminder alert for upcoming events.

From the drop-down tab select “Schedule.”

When you click the star icon you’ll have the option of setting a reminder alert for 10-, 30or 60 minutes prior to the event.

4. Enjoy Foo Foo Fest!

Access the app’s additional features from the drop-down tab including a festival map, news feed, and FAQs section so you’re ready to make the most of your Foo Foo Fest experience.

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Foo foo fest $25 registration fee). Registration for any two of these events includes a free one-year subscription to WFLF and a gift bag. sites.google.com/site/wflfonline

Blue Angels Homecoming Air Show Nov. 11 – 12

12th Annual Pensacola Marathon Nov. 13 It’s marathon season, Pensacola. Fall is the perfect time of year to put on your running shoes and celebrate Veteran’s Day weekend by combining a scenic tour of historic Downtown Pensacola with sugary-white sand beaches for the perfect recipe for the 12th Annual Pensacola Marathon scheduled Sunday, Nov. 13. The race begins and ends at Admiral Mason Park in Downtown Pensacola, with a route winding its way along a 13.1 mile circuit of the city for the half marathoners and full 26.2 mile loop for the full marathon runners. The course features jaunts through historic neighborhoods, the downtown district, as well as a route atop the bluffs overlooking Escambia Bay, where runners will welcome the day with a beautiful sunrise. That’s not to mention the live bands and cheering Pensacolians who will be rooting for runners to make it to the finish line. The race will end next to the Nation’s only replica of the National Vietnam War Memorial in Washington, D.C. Pensacola Marathon is why many come to our city for the challenge and decide to stay for the fun! pensacolasports.org 32 | pensacola magazine

Pensacola Egg Fest: The Best BBQ Party on the Coast Nothing says foodie fun more than a Big Green Egg, and no, we’re not talking about green eggs and ham, Sam I Am. We’re talking about grills that you can cook practically anything on and you’ll find hundreds of these special Green Egg cookers stationed at Wahoo Stadium for the upcoming Pensacola Egg Festival from 12 to 3 pm on Sunday, Nov. 13.

This 100-percent volunteer-led festival started about four years ago, thanks in part to the idea formed by then-Chairman of ChainReaction Jerold Hall and Shelly Gates, who was event director of Wahoo Stadium at the time. The event also owes thanks to the invaluable support of Jessica Lee from Kia Autosport, Pensacola Egg Fest’s title sponsor, who played a major role in helping the event get up and running since year one.

Be prepared to sample signature dishes by at least 50 Egg Chef teams who are coming from all over the Southeast for the Pensacola Egg Fest. Also, look forward to cooking demos by local chefs who frequent the festival every year like Dan Dunn of H20, Nathan Holler of Dog House Deli, and Eric Troop of Margaritaville.

Another unique aspect of the festival is the

VIP Dinner in the Hancock Club at Wahoo Stadium. For $75, you not only gain entry to the special precursor to the Egg Fest but you also gain access to the main festival on Sunday. In addition to being entertained by Last Comic Standing winner, Jon Reep, you can expect a delicious BBQ dinner, craft beer from Lewis Bear Company, along with other cocktails and soft drinks. One lucky attendee will even be get to take home a Big Green Egg Mini-Max perfect for tailgating parties. If you missed your chance to snag a ticket for the Nov. 10 event, there’s always next year!

Every year, the proceeds from Pensacola Egg Fest go to benefit non-profit organizations in our community, typically those aimed at bettering the lives of the youth in our community like ChainReaction, AMIKids and Rally Pensacola.

“We’re so excited to be part of Foo Foo,” said Jerold Hall, chairman of Pensacola Egg Fest. “Last year, we were given an ACE grant of $8,700 and we turned it into an $109,000 economic impact. $89,000 of that came from visitors from outside our community. We were able to give just shy of $100,000 to charity.

I’m extremely proud of that.”

photo by Barrett MacLean

It’s a bird… No, it’s the Blue Angels! Keep the Veteran’s Day celebrations going with the patriotic Homecoming Air Show by Pensacola’s world-famous Blue Angels at NAS Pensacola on Nov. 11 through 12. Not only is the show a celebration of the Veteran’s Day holiday, but it will also celebrate the 70th anniversary of the Blue Angels team. In addition to Blue Angels, other attractions will include nighttime firework shows as well as performances by Shockwave Jet Truck operator Chris Darnell, F-16 Demo and Heritage Flight vintage fighter aircrafts, Bob Carlton’s Vertigo Air Shows, Kevin Coleman Aerosports, Firewalkers Pyro, Skip Stewart and many more. There’s fun for the whole family, too: kiddos can enjoy their time in the Kids’ Zone, the perfect place to take a break out of the sun while enjoying activities like the inflatable obstacle course, Spider Mountain, bounce houses, and more—including a spin on the popular gyro! Gates open at 8 am and feel free to bring your own portable chairs. Admission is free but tickets to the show range $7 to $18.

Don’t miss your chance to enjoy the high-flying performers at this year’s air show. naspensacolaairshow.com

Band of Beards Written by Kelly Oden Photography by Guy Stevens

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Band of Beards Chin curtain, lip sweater, crumb catcher, lip foliage: whatever you want to call it, beard and mustache culture is alive and well in Pensacola. From Palafox to NineMile the facial hair is flowing on cheeks and lips both young and old.

November often brings facial hair into focus with events like NoShave November and Movember, which support men’s health awareness and initiatives.

Although the group started as primarily a social

helped a lot by a group called Testicular Cancer Awareness Foundation (TCAF). They help people with medical bills and other costs. They do individual fundraising so all the money goes to that specific person rather than research or administrative costs.”

Although ECBMA supports Movember and No-Shave November organizations, they liked the idea of being able to create fundraising events throughout the year.

Two fundraisers are scheduled for November: •Shave the Date: Wilfrid’s Shave it or Save it, Nov. 18 at Wilfrid’s during Gallery Night •TCAF & ECBMA’s Grab Life by the Balls Benefit Concert: Nov. 23 at Vinyl Music Hall. Doors open at 6 pm, show starts at 7pm. $5 Entry and all proceeds benefit the Testicular Cancer Awareness Foundation.

In support of men’s

Briana Snelgrove + Jon Stevenson and drinking club, Briana and John really wanted to make sure it had a charitable purpose as well.

“We wanted to support something and testicular cancer was a perfect fit,” says John. “One of our good friends, Josh Cooper, is a testicular cancer survivor and he was

health and our bearded brethren everywhere, Pensacola Magazine profiled a few locals who sport fantastic facial hair. Take a look at these bearded boys (and men) and learn a little bit about what it takes to grow and maintain a flowing facial mane.

Josh Cooper, Cancer Survivor

I understand you are a testicular cancer survivor. Can you tell me a little bit about your fight against cancer?

On Oct. 10, 2012, when I was 24, I was diagnosed with stage 2a testicular cancer. I went in knowing nothing about it, and that can be a scary thing. After surgery to remove the tumors, I went through a month of radiation therapy. On Jan. 30, 2013, I was told I was cancer free again.

You had a lot of help from the Testicular Cancer Awareness Foundation. Tell me about the organization and how they helped you.

While I was fighting, I found forums online, and someone in a group there referred me to Kim Jones, who is the founder of TCAF. They are an extremely caring and compassionate organization, who genuinely believes in this cause. Kim and I spoke a lot after my ordeal, which led to me working with the nonprofit.

You are now a spokesperson for Testicular Cancer Awareness Foundation, correct? Tell me what you do in that role.

After my time with cancer, I knew that I wanted to get involved in any capacity that I could. I’ve always been a big fan of music festivals, and knew that some companies set up tents at festivals to raise awareness of their cause. I have now done two full summers, 42 cities a piece, “tour managing” the nonprofit on the Van’s Warped Tour. I’ve done two Riot Fests as well. While on tour, I speak with attendees— usually a few hundred a day.

With the help of local volunteers in each city, I educate attendees

on the disease, while keeping it lighthearted and having a good time. We distribute pocket self-check guides, brochures with information on the cancer and TCAF, as well as other promotions. We also sell shirts, wristbands, and other merchandise to raise money, as being on the tour is expensive in itself.

How did you become involved in the Emerald Coast Beard and Mustache Alliance?

In 2012, the ECBMA and others had their pub crawl to raise awareness for men’s health.

After hearing about my situation online, they donated all the money raised to help with my medical bills and to support me in my time out of work. After that, I’ve been helping from time to time with events and having a lot of fun in the process. I actually decided to grow my beard, for the first time, because I thought there was a possibility of losing my hair to the cancer.

As I did radiation, and not chemotherapy, this wasn’t the case. But I decided to keep the beard and grow it longer because of this.

What advice do you have for men in terms of screening for and surviving testicular cancer?

Testicular cancer is the most common cancer in males ages 15 to 35, but it’s 95 percent curable when caught early. I got very lucky in catching mine early. As men, it is important to know what is happening within our bodies, and, if there is ever a question, to get checked out.

Surviving testicular cancer is an experience in itself—especially at such a young age. Life since surviving has been full of doctor visits with plenty of blood work and CT scans. But as a survivor, these are the most important things to do. Having it once increases the chances of getting it again. This makes it very important to stay current on my tests, and most of all, to always stay positive.

pensacola magazine | 35

Band of Beards

Blake Rushing Chef-Owner, Union Public House Owner, Spot on Catering 34 years old How long have you been growing your facial hair?

Since 2005.

What is the longest you have grown it?

Six or seven inches across. I could stretch it to the outside of my cheeks.

If it had a name, what would it be?

It hasn’t, but I was thinking Art Vandalay would be a good one.

Describe your beard/mustache style.

Old west.

Tell me about your beard/mustache grooming habits and what products do you use.

I use Club Man mustache wax and I just wash and condition like I wash my hair.

Who is your beard/mustache hero?

Wyatt Earp.

What is your favorite and least favorite part of having facial hair?

My favorite part is that I don’t have to shave. That’s why I let it grow in the first place—because I hate shaving. My least favorite part would be the hot summers can make it a little bit itchy. Also, anytime I eat anything messy it always gets in my mustache.

Do you have a funny story or anecdote about your beard?

I have a 5-and-a-half-month old daughter.

Her absolute favorite thing to do first thing in the morning is to grab my mustache and my beard and pull down as hard as she can to pull herself up.

Most babies are afraid of people with beards, but she is afraid of people who don’t have beards.

How does your significant other like it?

She loves it. She gets mad if I trim it too close.

36 | pensacola magazine

Mark Rathbun Retired Military and Federal Service 63 years old How long have you been growing your facial hair?

Ever since I got out of the army, but I’ve had a mustache since I was 16.

What is the longest you have grown it?

I suppose I’ve had the beard as long as 8 inches at some point.

If it had a name, what would it be?

Probably Fuzzy Wuzzy.

Describe your beard/mustache style.

I definitely gravitate toward the Victorian era look—1840s through 1890s. Currently, I have a handlebar mustache and mutton chops.

Tell me about your beard/mustache grooming habits and what products do you use.

I wash it every day. I use handlebar mustache wax to keep the curl.

What is the most obnoxious question you get about your facial hair?

With the length of my mustache, it’s usually something like, “Did you know that piece of cake is stuck in your mustache?” It’s a challenge to eat and not sometimes collect a little icing or butter or something.

Who is your beard hero?

Maybe General Burnside. He’s kind of a beard rock star. He’s the one that the term sideburns came from. He’s definitely got some swag in the beard world.

What is your favorite and least favorite part of having facial hair?

One thing I like about beards is that it’s a chance to reinvent myself. Last year I had a 13-inch-wide handlebar mustache and a big goatee. It’s an expression of individualism, really. As for least favorite, it really is a lot of work. I’ve heard people say that people with beards are lazy, but it is really quite the opposite. They do require a lot of grooming depending on the texture and density of your hair. Not to mention, beard oil and mustache wax can be expensive.

How does your significant other like it?

She’s never known me any other way, so I guess she likes it pretty well.

pensacola magazine | 37

Band of Beards

John Stevenson Kitchen Supervisor, Peg Leg Pete’s 26 years old How long have you been growing your facial hair?

Ever since I could, really. I started growing my mustache seriously in 2010.

What is the longest you have grown it?

I’ve never measured it, but at one point I could touch it to my ears, tie it below my chin or stretch it up to my eyebrows. That was after going a year without trimming it.

Now I usually keep it at a six-month length.

Does it have a name?

Not one you can print.

Describe your beard/mustache style.

It’s a natural mustache with a handlebar shape. Although, recently it has a very asymmetrical handlebar shape. The left side never wants to play ball for some reason. I just let it do what it wants.

Tell me about your beard/mustache grooming habits and what products do you use. I don’t use any products on my mustache except shampoo and conditioner.

Who is your mustache hero?

Sam Elliott, for sure.

What is the most obnoxious question you get about your facial hair?

Is that real? I get it a lot around Halloween.

People like to pull on it to see if it’s real without asking.

What is your favorite and least favorite part of having facial hair?

It sets you apart from the crowd. I’m John Boy, the guy with handlebar mustache.

Least favorite is probably that being so memorable, people often remember me, but I don’t remember them. I also go through a lot of napkins when I eat, but over the years I’ve adjusted to that.

Do you have a funny story or anecdote about your beard?

People often ask me what my secret is. I usually say “Don’t shave,” but a friend thinks I should start telling people to put ridiculous things in their mustache to make it grow, like mayonnaise and condensed milk.

How does your significant other like it?

She loves it. She’s only known me like this.

I told her it’s a bucket list item that I want to win the National Natural Mustache Competition once and then I’ll keep it a little more reasonable after that.

38 | pensacola magazine

Josh Cooper Bartender, Vinyl Music Hall 28 years old How long have you been growing your facial hair?

I used to keep short facial hair, but actually started growing a beard in late 2012.

What is the longest you have grown it?

I think it’s at the longest it’s been right now. A few years back, I cut it off on a dare and have been growing it back since.

Does it have a name? If not, what name would you imagine for it?

No, it doesn’t have a name yet. I would imagine something in the Viking style.

Maybe Valhalla.

Describe your beard/mustache style.

I honestly don’t do a lot with it. I just kind of let it grow. I get it trimmed once every two or three months and spend way too long everyday brushing it out.

Tell me about your beard/mustache grooming habits and what products do you use. I wash and condition it daily, as well as using beard oil and a beard balm.

I was shown the dollar beard club from a friend and use it out of convenience.

What is the most obnoxious question you get about your facial hair?

Usually when people ask to touch it or pull it. This is almost always while I’m working behind a bar, and I’ve just never understood the touching it part in general. It’s hair. It feels like hair.

Do you have a funny story or anecdote about your beard?

Not that I can think of off the top of my head—other than it getting stuck in a car door or something of the like, because that happens constantly.

How does your significant other like it?

She seems to like it. One day when I was really frustrated with it and wanted to cut it off, I was told that I wasn’t allowed.

pensacola magazine | 39

Band of Beards

Phillip Switzer Owner, Constant Coffee 33 years old

How long have you been growing your facial hair?

On and off since I was 18.

What is the longest you have grown it?

The longest I’ve ever grown it is probably mid-chest.

If it had a name, what would it be?

I have no idea. Let’s say Betty. That seems like a good beard name.

Describe your beard/mustache style.

Full and groomed.

Tell me about your beard/mustache grooming habits and what products do you use.

Every morning, I get it wet in the shower.

I shampoo it once or twice a week. I use a little light wax or beard oil in it every day.

What is the most obnoxious question you get about your facial hair?

“Can I touch it?” I went to China two years ago and people loved to walk up to me and pet my face.

What is your favorite and least favorite part of having facial hair?

I just like how it looks. It’s fun. It’s a distinctive characteristic. Most guys don’t have a grooming thing that is theirs. Every morning you get up and it’s a ritual to comb it and groom it. I don’t really have a least favorite part. It gets a little hot sometimes, but you deal with it.

Do you have a funny story or anecdote about your beard?

I met my wife in New Orleans. She was living in Texas at the time. The first time she came to visit, I didn’t know if she would be okay with the beard, so I shaved it all off. She got off the plane and said, “What were you thinking? Grow it back right now!” That’s pretty much when I decided I was gonna marry her.

How does your significant other like it?

She loves it. She likes it this length.

40 | pensacola magazine

Mike Ensley Chairman, Pensacon Writer, Center for Research and Economic Opportunity, University of West Florida 47 years old How long have you been growing your facial hair?

I was 17 when I started growing it, so almost 30 years.

What is the longest you have grown it?

It’s been down to my mid-chest. I’ve trimmed it back in recent years.

Describe your beard/mustache style.

It started out as a Van Dyke type of thing, but it’s become wiry as I’ve gotten older.

It’s kind of like a goatee, but it’s much bigger.

Tell me about your beard/mustache grooming habits and what products do you use. I shampoo and condition it every day and I use a natural sandalwood beard oil. It keeps it from drying out.

What is the most obnoxious question you get abot your facial hair?

“Can I touch it?”

Who is your beard hero?

When I started growing it, people said I looked like Dan Haggerty, so I guess the late Dan Haggerty.

What is your favorite and least favorite part of having facial hair?

My favorite part is that I don’t look like a baby with a beard. I have a baby face, so the beard gives me a little more definition around my face. It’s become a defining thing for me. People know me because of my beard. I don’t really have any complaints about it. Occasionally you might get something in it, but it’s not a big deal. A quick wash and you are good.

How does your significant other like it?

She loves it. I’ve had it since I’ve known her. She’s said, “Please don’t shave it off.

Keep your beard. It’s part of you. It’s who you are.”

Do you have a funny story or anecdote about your beard?

It was my daughter’s security blanket when she was a baby. I would rock her to sleep and she would hold on to it. Even from the time she was a tiny baby, she would put her hand in there and hold on to the beard and that’s how she would go to sleep. She’s never seen me without it.

pensacola magazine | 41

Play / Live / Give Nov 29

Nov Magic Men Live! at 9 Saenger Theatre

Ladies night just a lot more interesting… The Magic Men are coming to Saenger Theatre, for strictly mature audiences, on the evening of Nov. 9. Experience a night out like never before with this brand new, high-energy, crowd interactive show that has captivated audiences across the U.S. This intensely exciting experience features a talented lineup of stunning gentlemen sure to appeal to a variety of tastes. Dynamic productions of the hottest music and original compositions, thrilling choreographic displays and themed acts, Magic Men Live! invites audience members to let loose in an empowering, fun-filled environment and embark on an unforgettable night out! Tickets range $23 to $78. Reserve your seats online now at pensacolasaenger.com.

Nov Casting Crowns 10

Coming to Pensacola Bay Center on Nov. 10 is none other than multiplatinum selling and Grammywinning Christian music group: Casting Crowns. The group is making an appearance in our city as part of their “The Very Next Thing” tour this fall, which will tour 38 cities in addition to our own Pensacola. Their shows will feature label mate Matt Maher and special guest, newcomer Hannah Kerr. The

42 | pensacola magazine

Dolly Parton: Pure & Simple Internationally-renowned superstar and Country Music Hall of Famer Dolly Parton is making her way to the Pensacola Bay Center on Nov. 29 with a “Pure & Simple” performance. She has contributed countless treasures to the world of entertainment and she is sure to wow the audience this month with her “Pure & Simple” live show. In addition to being one of only five female artists to win the Country Music Association’s Entertainer of the Year Award, she has garnered seven Grammy, 10 Country Music Association, five Academy of Country Music, and three American Music awards. Tickets range $51.50 to $129.50 and seats are guaranteed to sell out fast, so reserve yours now by visiting pensacolabaycenter.com.

tour is all to support the band’s new studio album “The Very Next Thing”—the group’s eight studio album since the label debut release in 2003. Casting Crowns began, serves and continues to be rooted in the local church—from which the inspiration for their music stems.

Tickets range from $33.50 to $54 and you can reserve yours now by visiting pensacolabaycenter.com.

Nov Viva Italia: A Food 10 and Wine Event

Join Jackson’s Steakhouse the evening of Nov. 10 for a special wine and food tasting, “Viva Italia.” Few countries take their autumn harvests as seriously as Italy; visit any town or small city on a weekend in the fall and you’re likely to run into plenty of fresh markets, weekend feasts and food festivals celebrating the season. With this season serving as the inspiration for the Jackson’s tasting, they’ve selected four stellar Italian wines to complete a selection of creative Italian dishes prepared by Chef Irv Miller.

In addition to the delicious dinner menu, a soloist from the Pensascola Opera will entertain guests during the presentation of the main course with a selection of two Italian arias. The event cost is $75 per person and will include four wines and five courses. Seating is limited and reservations are required.

Make yours today by calling Jackson’s Steakhouse at 850-469-9898.

nov Pensacola Civic Band 12 Presents “Forbidden Love (and Sax)”

The 45th season of the Pensacola Civic Band opens on Nov. 12, featuring one of the country’s foremost woodwind artists, Chris Vadala. Vadala is indemand as a jazz/classical performer and educator who has appeared on more than 100 recordings to date as well as innumerable jingle sessions, film and TV scores. The Pensacola Civic Band and Vadala present “Forbidden Love (and Sax),” a musical experience that brings the stories of Romeo and Juliet and West Side Story—two stories that share many similar themes, including the most notable them of forbidden love. The program includes Leonard Bernstein’s “West Side Story” and “Some Other Time,” as well as jazz favorites like “Quintessence” by Quincy Jones, “Take the A Train” by Duke Ellington, and “Feel of a Vision” by Chuck Mangione. Tickets are $10 per adult and $5 for children age 15 and under.

Find out more about the performance, or reserve your general admission seats online at pensacolasaenger.com.

Play / Live / Give nov Save the Third

16 for Chef Irv: Mediterranean Spice

Join Chef Irv Miller of Jackson’s Steakhouse for another cooking class on the third Wednesday of this month, Nov. 16. This month will feature some of Chef Irv’s favorite cooking techniques and dishes that hail from the Mediterranean. Of all the bold ingredients and cooking styles of the sun-drenched region, the foods of Spain, France, Italy, Greece, Africa, Egypt and Israel inspire Chef Irv the most. He will prepare authentic regional condiments and foods and re-create specialty dishes from within the Mediterranean and surrounding regions. He is preparing four tastings and will discuss food similarities and differences. Chef Irv will also focus on the coastline seafood specialties, cheeses, country regional dishes and familiar global favorite to expand on his sun-drenched menu tastings. Two classes are scheduled: the first begins 5 pm, the second begins at 7:30 pm.

Each class costs $45 per person, which covers the cooking demonstration, tastings and wine pairings, as well as a take-home recipe booklet for you to try your hand at Chef Irv’s recipes in the comfort of your own home. Advance reservations are required and you can make yours by calling 850-217-2347.

nov Toasts of the Coast:

17 Struan Grant Ralph presents Glenfiddich

Join the Fish House for their November round of Toasts of the Coast featuring a four-course dinner that will highlight a number of Glenfiddich single malts on Thursday, Nov. 17.

Struan Grant Ralph, who is based out of New York, will be on hand here in Pensacola for the dinner to share stories of the history of the distillery as well as to discuss each of the scotch pairings.

With Ralph’s Glenfidditch single malt picks serving as the inspiration, Chef Billy Ballou has created a four-course dinner including candied house bacon paired with Glenfiddich 14-year Bourbon Barrel Reserve, salmon en croute paired with Glenfiddich 15year Solera Reserve, rolled rib-eye cap paired with Glenfiddich 18-year Small

Batch, finishing with a vanilla beanpoached pear paired with Glenfiddich 21-year Gran Reserva. The event will begin promptly at 5:30 pm. The cost for each event is $65 per person and will include four beverages and four courses. For reservations, please call the Fish House events line: 850-433-9450.

nov Thanksgiving at 24 Skopelos

Do Thanksgiving differently this year and take a trip to Skopelos for Thanksgiving Day, Nov. 24. Chef Silivos is preparing a special feast for every foodie’s favorite holiday from 11 am to 4 pm in the Ballroom at New World Landing. Skopelos will host their famous buffet, including stations attended by Chef Silivos himself. In the main dining room, there will be a special a la carte menu created by the Skopelos Culinary Team offering something for everyone. For reservations or more information, please call 850-432-6565. For more details, check out skopelosatnewworld. com.

nov Creek Indian 19–20 Celebration Days

Join in on the Creek Indian Celebration Days at their new location at the Tribal Grounds in Milton (4750 Willard Norris Rd.) from 9 am to 5 pm. This is the 26th annual celebration of the two-day event, featuring intertribal dancing, displays and teaching of Creek Indian heritage and customs. Plus, there will be great food and large groups of Native American vendors with authentic crafts. Don’t miss your chance to be part of the Pow Wow. This family-friendly event is free to attend. For more information, please call 850-516-6960.

nov Michael Jackson: A 29 Thrilling Tribute

Can’t get enough of Thriller? Don’t stop ‘til you get enough! Michael Jackson: A Thrilling Tribute is coming to the Pensacola Saenger Theatre in a very exciting, high-energy Michael Jackson tribute like no other on Nov. 29. This show was organized to benefit Autism Pensacola, a local non-profit dedicated to autism advocacy. Falynne and Friends are sharing their amazing talents with Autism Pensacola for the show, so they can help raise Autism awareness and funds for those in need in our area. LaBelle Performing Arts studio is supporting this benefit show by providing dancers as well as an amazing guest performance. Tickets are between $20 to $50 per person and you may purchase yours online at pensacoalsaenger.com.

nov Celebrate

24 Thanksgiving at a Great Southern Restaurant

Does the Thanksgiving holiday have you running around like a wild turkey?

Leave all the grocery shopping, food preparation and clean-up to someone else this year by making your holiday gathering something special with any one of the Great Southern Restaurants (Jackson’s Steakhouse, The Fish House, Atlas Oyster House, and/or Five Sisters Blues Café). On Thursday, Nov. 24, the four restaurants will be providing a holiday dinner service from 11 am to 5 pm. In addition to their regular menus, the restaurants will be serving up a traditional turkey plate with variations from chef to chef. Reservations will be required and you can find out more about the menu and reserving your seat(s) at greatsouthernrestaurants.com.

dec Historic Holiday Gala 3

The University of West Florida invites you to attend the Historic Holiday Gala, a unique holiday experience in Historic Pensacola on Saturday, Dec. 3 from 5 to 9 pm. Attendees will be treated to a magical historic holiday evening full of enchanting decorations, progressive heavy hors d’oeuvres and desserts, music and cheer. Between the streets of Zarragoza, Tarragona and Adam will be bustling with holiday merriment. Stroll among Victorian carolers as you take in the magic of holidays past. Guided lantern tours pensacola magazine | 43

Play / Live / Give

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of select Historic Pensacola homes and Old Christ Church will be given every 30 minutes and Colonial holiday cooking demonstrations will be held throughout the evening.

Tickets are $100 per person and may be purchased at historicpensacola.org or 850-595-5985 ext. 111.

dec Lighted Boat and 3–4 Surfing Santa Parades

Nothing says it’s the holidays (in Florida) quite like the Lighted Boat and Surfing Santa parades, coming to Pensacola Beach on Dec 3 and 4.

The sparking vessels in the Light Boat Parade will wade through the dark December sky and create a pleasant scene to embrace the upcoming Christmas season. The parade begins at Little Sabine Bay and carries on to Pensacola Beach Boardwalk at 6 pm on Dec. 3, followed by fireworks after the parade. Then, on Dec. 4, you can watch as Santa oversees delightfully decorated whimsical floats as they wind their way down the island’s main street, sharing holiday joy and cheer with all who care to catch the spirit. Surfing Santa Parade leaves from Via de Luna Drive starting at 2 pm.

thru In Focus: dec. Architectural

Photography by Joseph Constantino at PMA

Check out Pensacola Museum of Art now through December for the special exhibit displaying the architectural photographs captured in focus by Joseph Constantino.

The exhibit will showcase 30 of the artist’s pieces; 20 monochrome solarized and 10 color solarized images. Constantino was raised only steps away from some of the world’s most beautiful buildings as a Manhattan native. Although travelling is what ignited his passion for architectural details, he ultimately came back to the states and captured the buildings surrounding him in both new York and Florida. Infrared, street, and solarization are the prime area of interest for Constantino,

A.A. Cunningham Road paving notice ... Naval Facilities Engineering Command Southeast (NavFac SE) has awarded a contract to mill and overlay A.A. Cunningham Road on NAS Pensacola. The work is scheduled to begin the week of Sept. 12 and expected to take four weeks to complete. Watch for “Road Closed” and “Detour” signs. Detour routes to facilities in the area will be Page Road to Warehouse Road and Farrar Road to Pat Bellinger Road. Drivers should observe the warning signs and proceed with caution around the work zones. The work schedule is weather dependent. For questions or more information, contact the PWD Construction Manager Bryan Moeller at 452-3131, ext. 3077.

Vol. 80, No. 35

VISIT GOSPORT ONLINE: www.gosportpensacola.com

GOSPORTPENSACOLA.COM GOSPORTPENSACOLA.COM GOSPORTPENSACOLA.COM GOSPORTPENSACOLA.COM GOSPORTPENSACOLA.COM GOSPORTPENSACOLA.COM

September 2, 2016

Fallen Special Tactics Airman honored at NASP

who has been addicted to black and white photography since the 70s when he built a darkroom in his home. For more details, check out pensacolamuseum.org.

thru Controversial Lines: dec. Late Prints by Salvador Dali at PMA

Visit the halls of Pensacola Museum of Art to view the words of one of the most famous and controversial artists of the 20th Century: Salvador Dali. Prolific for more than 60 years, Dali created countless oil paintings, drawings, sculptures, theatre and fashion designs, jewelry, book illustrations and prints. This exhibitions focuses on the multiple print suites and single prints by Dali from the 1940s to 1980s, following the artists’ formal affiliation with the Surrealist movement. This production phase, previously criticized by art historians as overly commercialized and reactionary has since become celebrated for its forward-thinking design and influence on Pop Art and contemporary artists; inspiring artists such as Jasper Johns, Andy Warhol, Roy Lichtenstein and Willem de Kooning. More than 50 works will be on view from American public and private collections, including the PMA Permanent Collection. Supplementing this exhibit will be additional prints by icons of Pop Art such as Warhol and Lichtenstein, further enforcing Dali’s influence on art history postSurrealism. For more info on this exhibit, visit pensacolamuseum.org.

Pensacola Ice Flyers

What’s that sound? Skates, pucks and hockey sticks are hitting the ice, and these are all signs that we are well into hockey season. Whether you’re a fan of hockey or the Pensacola Ice Flyers, or you just like watching hunks make skating in full gear look easy, you won’t want to miss any one of the upcoming home games. For more details, or to get your tickets now, check out pensacolaiceflyers.com.

Nov. 11: Nov. 12: Nov. 23: Nov. 26: Dec. 2:

vs. Columbus Cottonmouths vs. Columbus Cottonmouths vs. Mississippi RiverKings vs. Huntsville Havoc vs. Mississippi RiverKings

By Capt. Katrina Cheesman Sibley’s unit. “This dedication 24th Special Operations Wing and memorial ruck is an important step for us as a brotherhood Air Force Special Tactics Air- to honor Forrest’s legacy of men dedicated a military freefall valor, and get a small bit of clotraining exercise into Pensacola sure.”

Bay Aug. 26 to His teammates Staff Sgt. Forrest escorted the famSibley, a combat ily to Sibley’s controller from burial site, wearPensacola killed ing combat ruck in action Aug. 26, sacks weighing 2015, in Helmand more than 50 Pr o v i n c e , pounds to repreAfghanistan. It sent the deployed. was the first anOnce at the niversary of Sibcemetery, they ley’s death. completed a After free round of memoStaff Sgt. falling into the rial push-ups to Forrest Sibley waters of Sibley’s honor their fallen hometown, his teammates teammate. joined family members and Sibley, 31, had served in the friends to complete a memorial Air Force as a combat controller ruck march to his final resting since 2008. In his seven years of place at Barrancas National service, he received four Bronze Cemetery (BNC).

Star Medals, once with valor for “When we lost Forrest, most heroism in combat, as well as a of his teammates were still de- Purple Heart for injuries susployed for another five months, tained in combat. and couldn’t attend any funeral “Forrest was one of our best or memorial event,” said Lt. Col. combat controllers, but he was Stewart Parker, commander of 21st Special Tactics Squadron, See Sibley on page 2

After parachuting into Pensacola Bay, members of the Air Force’s 21st Special Tactics Squadron make a memorial “ruck march,” a hike with full packs, from NAS Pensacola’s Bayou Grande Marina to Barrancas National Cemetery and the grave of teammate Staff Sgt. Forrest Sibley. Sibley was killed in action Aug. 26, 2015. He had served in the Air Force as a combat controller since 2008. Photo by Mike O’Connor For more photos, see page A4

CNATT: Make Labor Day weekend safety a priority Center for Naval Aviation Technical Training Public Affairs

The Center for Naval Aviation Technical Training (CNATT) safety manager is reminding service members, civilian employees and their families to maintain safety awareness as they prepare for what is generally viewed as the end of summer.

CNATTSafety Manager Krystal Hancock said that Labor Day, a federal holi-

day designed to honor the achievements of American workers, includes an extended weekend, with service members and their families often electing to travel to see family and friends.

“Whether taking a long road trip or simply jumping in the car to run a quick errand, driving is inherently risky, and traffic mishaps continue to

be a leading reason for lost time, days, and lives across our force,” she said.

Hancock said the National Safety Council (NSC) predicts this could be the deadliest Labor Day weekend for drivers in eight years, estimating that more than 430 people could be killed in traffic accidents throughout the Labor Day weekend. She added that service members, often sepa-

rated from their families and travelling significant distances to visit during the long weekend, should take some simple precautions before and during their trips.

“Get enough rest before heading outsleepy driving is as dangerous as impaired driving,” she said. “Alternate drivers or take frequent breaks to ensure that whoever is behind the wheel stays alert.”

See Labor Day on page 2

‘Be There’ for your shipmates during Suicide Prevention Month 2016

By James Rosenfelder U.S. Navy Bureau of Medicine and Surgery public affairs

NAS Pensacola to host 9/11 commemoration ceremony ... In commemoration of the events of Sept. 11, 2001, Naval Air Station Pensacola will present a ceremony at the National Naval Aviation Museum aboard the base at 10 a.m. Sept. 9. The event will include a guest speaker and a musical rendition from the NATTC Choir, a traditional “two-bell” ceremony, honors performed by the NASP Honor Guard and a 21-gun volley. The public is invited to attend.

Navy Medicine recognizes September as National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, which began Sept. 1.

The theme for Suicide Prevention Month 2016 is “Be There.”

Throughout the month, Navy Medicine will highlight the power of peer support and personal wellness, encouraging Sailors and Marines to be there for their shipmates.

“Action starts with prevention,” said Vice Adm. Forrest Faison, Navy surgeon general and chief, Bureau of Medicine and Surgery (BuMed).

“When a Sailor needs assistance, easy access to support resources and mental health treatment is essential, as is validation of help-seeking behaviors.”

Suicide prevention is a yearlong effort. Suicide Prevention Month serves as a reminder that building resilience and preventing suicide requires all

members of the Navy and Marine Corps community to work together.

Every life lost to suicide is one too many.

“Take action if you notice anything

out of the ordinary for a shipmate; reach out to them,” Faison said. “If you are having difficulties, seek help if See Prevention on page 2

FatAlbertis getting a facelift...Fat Albert, the Blue Angels’ C-130 cargo plane used for transporting crew and equipment to air shows around the country, is currently undergoing a chemical de-paint process at Tinker Air Force Base in Oklahoma after corrosion was found. Once the de-paint process and sheetmetal checks for any other corrosion are complete, Fat Albert will fly to Hill Air Force Base, Utah, for full programmed depot maintenance and paint. Photo by Kelly White

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Published by BallingerPublishing, a private firm in no way connected with the Department of the Navy. Opinions contained herein are not official expressions of the Department of the Navy nor do the advertisements constitute Department of the Navy, NAS Pensacola or Ballinger Publishing’s endorsement of products or services advertised.

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Photo Courtesy of University of West Florida Collection

THE PARADISE BEACH HOTEL

The Paradise Beach Hotel was located off Lillian Highway, 14 miles west of Pensacola on Perdido Bay. The hotel offered guests “rest, golf, fishing, boating, bathing and hunting” as well as “glamour, romance, peacefulness and charm.” The Paradise Beach Hotel opened circa 1940 and closed for business in the mid- 1960s. Many Navy flight cadets enjoyed dancing at Paradise Beach and also celebrated at the hotel following their graduation from flight school.

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SPECIAL SECTION

SPECIAL SECTION 53

Sunny Trails Ahead A GLIMPSE AT THE BRIGHT FUTURE OF THE FLORIDA SUN TRAIL AND HOW IT WILL AFFECT OUR OWN SEGMENT OF THE FLORIDA PANHANDLE, LEADING WITH THE PERDIDO KEY MULTIUSE TRAIL.

· OTHER STORIES ·

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BRACE for Emergency

A Global Warming Solution

Around the Region

WE CHAT WITH PETER BRYN, CLIMATE CHANGE LOBBYIST, ABOUT FREE MARKET SOLUTIONS TO OUR ENVIRONMENTAL CRISIS.

FIND OUT WHAT IS HAPPENING IN BUSINESS, GOVERNMENT AND CULTURAL NEWS IN THE GREATER PENSACOLA AREA AND NORTHWEST FLORIDA.

A LOCAL NON-PROFIT WORKS DILIGENTLY BEHIND THE SCENES TO KEEP NORTHWEST FLORIDA PREPARED FOR CALAMITY OF EVERY KIND.

nwflbusinessclimate.com | Business Climate | 49

Non-Profits

BRACE

for Emergency H

urricane season may only stretch from June to November, but for BRACE (Be Ready Alliance Coordinating for Emergencies), it is hurricane, flood, fire, and disaster season year round. The behind-the-scenes heroes who mobilize at a moment’s notice to prepare for and recover from catastrophe, BRACE works with community organizations and volunteers to be ready and vigilant for whatever may happen.

BRACE is the successor to a long-term recovery committee that was formed after Hurricane Ivan in 2004. When Dennis hit the following year, the non-profit worked with 38 organizations to support 800 families, including 144 families who needed permanent housing resettlement. BRACE works throughout the year to keep companies, parents and children aware of what they need to be properly prepared.

BRACE is funded in a variety of ways, including state and federal grants, and by working under contract for local governments to dispense much

50 | Business Climate | nwflbusinessclimate.com

needed services and workshops.

For example, they contract for Escambia County on the Citizen Corps program, which encourages individuals to embrace the personal responsibility of being prepared; get training in first aid and emergency skills; and to volunteer to support local emergency responders, disaster relief and community safety. Citizen Corps involves the CERT (Community Emergency Response Team) program, which educates people on basic disaster response skills like search and rescue. It also involves Fire Corps (assisting local fire departments),

Volunteers comprise 70% of emergency response teams, saving governments over $100 billion annually and responding to more than 33 million victims.

There are more than 2,600 registered CERT programs in the nation.

BY JOSH NEWBY

Neighborhood Watches, Medical Reserve Corps (to supplement public health initiatives), and VIPS (Volunteers in Public Service, which enhances the capacity of state and local law enforcement). There is a version of the 21-hour curriculum available to teens who wish to get involved too.

“We deliver that curriculum with the help of the sheriff’s office and law enforcement and fire departments,” said Greg Strader, executive director of BRACE. “We have a team of willing volunteers ready to step up and supplement official activities in the wake of an emergency.

Over a thousand individuals in the area serve as members of Citizen Corps.”

Following the 2014 flood, BRACE coordinated with over 500 partners that put in more than 92,000 hours of work, which translates to a $2.1 million impact. They mopped out 592 homes and did some major construction, including reconstruction on 113 homes, thanks to over $700,000 in funding.

BRACE makes such a tangible impact in the community that city councilpeople have given to the organization from their $10,000 discretionary funds. The county also realizes all the BRACE does, and provides an array of services that the county would otherwise have to take the lead on.

“It’s hard to measure prevention,” said Buzz Ritchie, vice chair of the BRACE board.

“You often don’t see the results and the value until after disaster strikes. We react to floods, tornadoes, fires, and even terrorism—so much more than hurricanes.”

After a disaster, individuals and communities will come forward who want to help, but they are unsure how. Often, these untrained individuals

will do more harm than good as they attempt repairs, medical care and more. BRACE ensures that neighborhoods have people who are trained and know what needs to be done. Instead of looking around for something to do, they can supplement activities and help respond more quickly than emergency services may be able to.

“We do off-the-radar, behind-the-scenes kind of work, but you’d definitely notice if we weren’t there,” said Strader.

BRACE has a chair at the Escambia County Emergency Operations Center, a huge hub that serves as a concerted effort by the county’s health, law enforcement, utilities, and recovery organizations to work through the storm and recover afterward.

“When we understand the scope of what has happened, we deploy our volunteers and work with our organizations, be they churches or even regular businesses,” said Strader.

“Our community is truly extraordinary,” added Ritchie. “We learned from Hurricane Ivan that an organization had to be in place to take the lessons learned and apply them by engaging the community and helping with mitigation efforts. We do a lot of outreach. We work a lot with the community, many of whom have reached out to us. Because of our partners, we are able to do so much.”

On the BRACE board sit experts from various fields and industries in the Pensacola area. With this expertise, BRACE is able to harness different perspectives and make sure all their bases are covered. This is also a method of community outreach, ensuring represented businesses have a plan in place and employees and their families understand the importance of always being on alert.

As if that were not enough, BRACE also provides disaster response childcare for first responders. For example, in the days and hours before, during and after Hurricane Ivan, firemen and policemen were faced with the difficult choice of responding to those who needed help or staying home and comforting their loved ones.

BRACE stepped in and identified childcare needs of 185 families and worked to find a survivable facility for sheltering in partnership with the school district.

They also work with businesses, many of whom may never reopen after a storm, to provide a best practices tool to enhance disaster readiness.

They provide free training where CERT trainers will come to your organization, business, school or church and provide guidance.

Homebound individuals are those who may have disabilities, need help evacuating, do not speak English as their first language, or have other impairments that may make it especially difficult during a disaster. During Ivan, there were 57,000 homebound and disabled persons who were underserved. In response, BRACE assembled a committee with 44 current participants dedicated to helping these people, in addition to 37 partner organizations that currently serve them. They also established a HIPPA-compliant database that identifies the location of these individuals so that exact plans could be developed for next time.

Believe it or not BRACE even helps with non-disaster related needs. In times of unexpected desolation or discontinuation of vital services, the non-profit will step in. Heritage Oaks, a mobile home and RV park, is one such example. After the former owner deserted the community, leaving residents without water, sanitation or garbage services, Escambia County Public Safety asked for BRACE’s help. BRACE LLC took over and now operates the facilities, providing affordable workforce housing to individuals and families in the west side of town.

“Our alliances really are the best part of who we are,” said Ritchie. “We are in constant communication with partners. There are people who live here who have never been through a hurricane, so we need to reach out to them and educate them.”

Storms are unexpected and disaster always seems to strike at the most inconvenient times, but BRACE is dedicated to working 24/7 behind the scenes to ensure that the unexpected is not the end of the story. By working with community partners and volunteers, Escambia County is always well-prepared for the next storm or disruption to our way of life. If you are interested in volunteering, contact certvista@ bereadyalliance.org.

nwflbusinessclimate.com | Business Climate | 51

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Outdoors

SUNNY TRAILS

BY DAWN GRESKO

PHOTOS BY NICHOLAS A. TONELLI

A glimpse at the bright future of the Florida SUN Trail and how it will affect our own segment of the Florida Panhandle, leading with the Perdido Key Multiuse Trail.

THERE ARE SUNNY TRAILS AHEAD FOR ESCAMBIA COUNTY, THANKS IN PART TO FUNDING FROM THE FLORIDA SHARED-USE NONMOTORIZED TRAIL NETWORK, BETTER KNOWN AS THE FLORIDA SUN TRAIL PROGRAM. THIS YEAR, THE PROGRAM AWARDED A TOTAL OF $44.4 MILLION TO 45 SEPARATE PROJECTS LOCATED ACROSS 21 COUNTIES THROUGHOUT FLORIDA, INCLUDING THE PERDIDO KEY MULTIUSE TRAIL IN ESCAMBIA COUNTY.

The SUN Trail is essentially a network of state-wide, paved multi-use trails for bicyclists and pedestrians that is physically separated from vehicular traffic.

“Florida is proud to be an outdoors state, and our many incredible bicycle, pedestrian and multi-use trails are great activities for Floridians and visitors to enjoy,” Gov. Rick Scott said. “I am proud to join FDOT in celebrating this investment as we work to provide more safe recreational opportunities for families across our state.”

The goal of SUN Trail is not only to provide safer routes for bicyclists and pedestrians to travel, but to increase connectedness across Florida communities as well as promote tourism.

The SUN Trail has its own program, which serves as a funding source to implement this network of paved trails, as a component of the Florida Greenways and Trails System (FGTS).

The FGTS plan is the responsibility of the Florida Department of Environmental Protection’s Office of Greenways and Trails (OGT). The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) and OGT worked closely to develop the program and define eligibility for SUN Trail funding.

“This initial SUN Trail funding will provide safer opportunities for bicyclists and pedestrians,” FDOT Secretary Jim Boxold said.

“As well as advance the completion of the state trail system and enhance the state’s partnership with local communities throughout Florida.”

The FDOT has a central office in Tallahassee, Fla., and the department is split into seven districts. District 3 is responsible for the entire Florida Panhandle, encompassing 16 counties from Escambia to Jefferson and every one in between.

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Outdoors HISTORICAL TIMELINE OF THE FLORIDA GREENWAYS AND TRAILS SYSTEM 1994 - The Legislature authorizes the transfer and rename of the Office of Greenway Management to the Office of Greenways and Trails (OGT).

1995 - The Florida Greenways and Trails Council is created to advise DEP on trailrelated issues and provide leadership.

1998 - The first Florida Greenways and Trails System Plan, “Connecting Florida’s Communities,” is adopted by the Council.

2008 - OGT, on behalf of the State of Florida, receives the first-ever Best Trails State in America award by American Trails.

2011 - OGT is merged into the Division of Recreation and Parks. OGT continues to provide leadership and coordination to establish and expand the Florida Greenways and Trails System.

2013 - OGT outlines a new vision for the Florida Greenways and Trails System (FGTS) in the first update to the FGTS Plan since 1998.

2014 - The Florida Greenways and Trails Foundation launches a statewide “Close the Gaps” campaign to promote a regionally connected trail system, culminating with initial legislative funding to complete the 250-mile Coastto-Coast Connector.

2015 – The Florida Legislature creates the Shared-Use Nonmotorized (SUN) Trail Network as a component of the FGTS. FDOT receives $25 million a year to construct paved multi-use trails in the system and works closely with OGT in identifying qualified regional trails.

2016 – The Florida Greenways and Trails Council prioritizes regional SUNTrail funding. After the Coastto-Coast Connector, they choose the 260-mile St. Johns River-to-Sea Loop as the next priority regional trail to receive funding.

Throughout District 3, the SUN Trail primarily follows US 98. The FDOT reached out to all adjacent counties along the corridor of the SUN Trail, including those along US 98, and as a result Escambia County responded by applying for a trail through the FDOT’s application process, which includes the Florida-Alabama Transportation Planning Association (TPO).

Escambia County’s application was deemed a top priority by the Florida-Alabama TPO, an advisory group consisting of elected officials from around the Florida-Alabama area. The group meets to prioritize what they perceive as transportation needs in their areas.

After the Florida-Alabama TPO issues their list of priority projects, the FDOT then looks at the list and determines which ones can be put into a five-year work program. In short, when the Florida-Alabama TPO sets a project as a priority, the FDOT takes the information and looks into finding funding sources to implement those projects through the five-year work program.

The Perdido Key Multiuse Trail is one of the projects that made it to priority status.

Currently, the trail is in the preliminary engineering (PE) phase. Essentially, all this means is that the trail is still in the process of review, acquiring permits, and surveying, which will eventually lead to design. At this time, a design for the trail has yet to be rendered since a design firm has not been contracted.

While we do not know much about how the Perdido Key Multiuse Trail will look in completion, we do know that the trail will be a 10-foot, five-directional multiuse asphalt path with some

“EVERY YEAR, ABOUT $25 MILLION IS AWARDED STATE WIDE. THIS MEANS, IF AWARDED AGAIN, SUN

TRAIL FUNDING CAN COVER THE CONSTRUCTION COSTS OF THE PERDIDO KEY MULTIUSE TRAIL, AS WELL, ONCE DESIGN GOES UNDERWAY.”

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sections of boardwalk added as needed (because of environmental obstacles like wetlands).

We also know the trail is neither part of the 260-mile St. John’s Loop nor part of the Coast to Coast Connector linking the Gulf and Atlantic coasts through Central Florida, but is in fact one of 23 projects that will build individual trail segments throughout the rest of the state. Moreover, the Perdido Key Multiuse Trail is one of four individual trail segments on the Florida Panhandle.

The trail will be located on Perdido Key Drive and State Road 292 from Gongora Drive to the Alabama state line. The multi-use trail will be constructed on the north side of the road and will possess strategically-placed sidewalk connections on the south side of the road.

Based on the location, the FDOT is not anticipating any right-of-way, so the next phase would be construction as funds come available.

Right now, construction has yet to be funded.

But, if we were to estimate the combined costs of design and construction, the Perdido Key Multiuse Trail is expected to take nearly $12 million to complete. Although, as a final design draft comes in and more surveying is done, costs can potentially increase or decrease.

Already, a little under $1.2 million has been allocated to the Perdido Key Multiuse Trail; this funding will be dedicated to the trail’s design costs for the 2016-2017 fiscal year.

“Funding from the SUN Trail program is not a one-time deal,” said Olen Pettis, Trails Coordinator for District 3 of the FDOT. “Every year, about $25 million is awarded state wide. This means, if awarded again, SUN Trail funding can cover the construction costs of the Perdido Key Multiuse Trail, as well, once design goes underway.”

In 2015, the Florida Legislature approved Section 339.81, which granted a $25 million annual allocation to the FDOT to fund the state-wide network of paved asphalt, boardwalk, or other hard surface trails—i.e., to fund priority projects under the SUN Trail.

Prior to that, in the 2014 Trail Legislation, the FDOT was directed to give funding priority to certain trail projects. According to Section

335.065(4), the FDOT would give priority to projects that: (a) are identified as a priority by the Florida Greenways and Trails Council (pursuant to Chapter 260 of Florida Statues), (b) support the transportation needs of bicyclists and pedestrians, (c) have national, statewide or regional importance, and/or (d) facilitate an interconnected system of trails by completing gaps between existing trails.

Furthermore, once funded projects are completed, they are to be operated and maintained by an entity other than FDOT; the FDOT is not obligated to provide additional funding for operation and maintenance fees.

Also, according to the 2015 Trail Legislation found in Sections 320.072 and 339.81, the FDOT may allocate state funding for the SUN Trail network corridor planning, pursuit of additional right-of-way, design, new construction or reconstruction of trail surface and bridges, as well as maintenance.

However, this excludes sidewalks, loop trails all within a single park or natural area, water trails, the Florida National Scenic Trail, and on-road facilities like bicycle lanes or routes. There is an exception when it comes to some on-road facilities that are no greater than half a mile in length and that connect two or more non-motorized trails, as well as some exceptions to the Florida Keys Overseas Heritage Trail.

Before a trail system can achieve priority status, it is expected to meet some of the following criteria: (a) possess publicly vetted documentation supporting the regional trail system, (b) encompass multiple counties within the FGTS priority system, (c) serve as a destination and serve destinations, (d) support economic development and tourism, (e) serve as an off-highway facility enhancing safety for non-motorized uses (with the exception for some on-road facilities no greater than half a mile and connecting two or more non-motorized trails),

(f ) demonstrate prior and future public/private investment or commitment, (g) possess committed operations and maintenance entities, (h) connect and facilitate use of multimodal transportation opportunities, as well as (i) capable of being completed or programmed within five years.

“Gov. Scott, the Florida Legislature, and leadership of FDOT all recognize the significance of these trails,” said Ian Satter, Public Information Director for District 3 of the FDOT. “Florida is a state in which we’re outdoors 12 months a year. The more avenues we have for transportation and the more ways for people to get out there and enjoy our state makes it a more attractive place for people to live.”

SUN TRAIL PROGRAM

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Environment

A GLOBAL WARMING A

s the City of Pensacola begins to embark on a climate change task force, our region is faced with some tough decisions about our future, even as many still reject the science surrounding the dangers of greenhouse gases and carbon emissions. Fortunately, there are organizations, such as the Citizens’ Climate Lobby (CCL), that work hard to find free-market approaches to combat both climate change and its effects. Business Climate spoke with CCL Conservative Director Peter Bryn about reaching out to the deniers, advocating for a Carbon Fee and Dividend Policy, and saving our world from this highly politicized issue.

How do you marry climate change science with your conservative politics?

I’ve always accepted the science on climate. Politically I’m independent but I’m a strong believer in markets and a properly functioning marketplace. I actually don’t see that at all in conflict with the fact that when you have an

externality, you have to account for it. I think there’s a strong place for the free enterprise system to solve this problem.

We’re seeing that with energy efficiency and electric cars and stuff like that, some of which has been spurred by incentives and mandates and some of it has been spurred by consumer interest.

by Josh Newby

56 | Business Climate | nwflbusinessclimate.com

You focus heavily on the Gulf Coast area. How does climate change affect those areas specifically?

Sure. There’s two ways to answer that. There are actually climate impacts, whether it’s more hot days or increased

SOLUTION

“

storm activities. In just about every city, I ask people what they’ve seen. A lot of people will say drought. The impacts of course vary, and it’s really important to focus on the local. When we go talk to people, I ask people, “What is the iconic image of climate change?” And of course the answer is a polar bear. Well there’s not many polar bears in these parts. If you’re trying to reach people on climate change, polar bears isn’t going to do it. You have to talk about the flood last month or localize it in some way as much as possible.

The second way I would answer that question is in terms of policy. What do you do about climate change? If we put a price on carbon, the opportunity for the Southeast is big. I’ve been real impressed with the amount of industry moving to the South. There are a lot of high-tech jobs in industries that are well-positioned to benefit from a clear price signal on carbon. I think this state has a lot of expertise in how to reduce or eliminate emissions from fossil fuels. This part of the country is a lot better positioned to benefit from this transition.

I think this state has a lot of expertise in how to reduce or eliminate emissions from fossil fuels. This part of the country is a lot better positioned to benefit from this transition.”

You have a strong focus on local participation. Is that more successful that top-down federal mandates?

In a sense, we’re doing both. Our focus is local and our goal is to build the political will locally for a national policy.

We start local working with chambers of commerce, mayors, business leaders in the community, etc. to get their support. That’s our goal. Then they start to share that support with their member of Congress, pushing them to the point where they think it’s politically palatable to support this. Then we have this consistent policy that allows everyone to work together to reduce carbon emissions. Once that happens, let’s go back local again and the solutions become local, whether it’s insulating homes or installing solar or whatever.

Our goal is to get active chats with every Congressional district in the county in order to get local support for this national initiative.

How do you get buy-in on this issue in these conservative states?

It’s a multi-prong approach. We try to get meetings with city and faith leaders. These are people whose support we’re going to need a lot of, but for whom by and large climate is not on the radar. So we preach to the unconverted by and large. But we also talk to the converted to start chapters and continue the dialogue with these people and hopefully eventually earn their support. nwflbusinessclimate.com | Business Climate | 57

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1: Place a steady rising fee on fossil fuels.

2: Give 100 percent of the fees (minus administration) back to households each month.

3: Use a border adjustment to stop business relocation.

It’s a process. You have to identify your supporters and you have to have respectful dialogue with those who disagree.

We ask people, “How can your community participate in this?” I think that makes it less scary for them. Put it in terms of local weather. Take the party politics out of it. And if you are in a conservative place, say you want a market-based solution that is good for the economy and the environment long-term. Climate change is going to cost a lot if we do nothing but create a lot of jobs if we do something.

Tell me about the Carbon Fee and Dividend policy.

So believe it or not, Exxon-Mobil, environmentalists, Al Gore and George Schultz all agree on the same carbon policy.

It enjoys broad support from many in the environmental community as well as the business community. It’s a three-legged stool.

First, put a price on carbon. It’s basically a carbon tax for oil, coal, etc. Put a fee on it. We do it upstream not to be punitive on fossil fuel producers, but just because administratively that’s the simplest way to do it. You start it low and escalate it slowly and predictably over time. That puts a clear price signal into the market place that emitting carbon and greenhouse gases is

going to get more expensive, so regardless of who you are, you have a clear picture of the future. So people know they either have to fuel switch or do it more efficiently.

Second, we say don’t actually make it a tax. Make it revenue-neutral. What we mean by that is don’t let the government keep it. Take all that money and give it back to citizens on an equitable basis. Everyone from Bill Gates to you gets the same check.

That offsets two of the major problems of the carbon tax, one of them being that it’s a tax, the other being that it tends to be very regressive, because it hits low- and middleincome people harder. You’re actually putting additional dollars into households.

Third, a border adjustment. If you’re trading with a country without a similar policy, you apply a tariff or a rebate as it goes over the border. That levels the playing field because if you’re in the US making airplanes, your cost just went up and you don’t want to be at a disadvantage to your international competitors. That prevents jobs and emissions from leaking overseas and encourages other countries to jump on board so they don’t have to pay that tariff.

And that’s the main focus of CCL right now?

That’s fair to say. Our two goals as an organization are a livable world and to

empower volunteers. Empowering people is really core to what we try to do. But you’re right: we’re pretty laser-focused on that policy because we believe it is the first best step to solve this problem. If we found a better approach tomorrow, we would switch.

It’s not core to what we do, but it is the focus.

And did you pioneer this initiative?

This is our flavor of it. There are others who talk about this kind of approach.

Others might call it a revenue-neutral carbon tax. There are some DC think tanks—conservative and liberal alike—who really like it. They’ve all played a role in crafting our version of the policy.

Some other countries have adopted something similar, so it works. Canada just adopted one, for example. If you give money back, things become a lot more important to people.

Why would big oil companies be interested in this type of policy? It seems like they’re usually the bad guys according to environmental groups.

Exxon in particular has gotten more vocal and proactive on this, as opposed to reactive, which is what they were before.

Among the big oil names, there’s generally been pretty aligned policy proposals, even nwflbusinessclimate.com | Business Climate | 59

Environment starting with cap-and-trade. First and foremost, despite whatever history may have existed, these companies know this is an issue. As a good steward, they know something has to be done. And they know something is coming, so they’d prefer something transparent and predictable as opposed to huge government regulation or a band-aid approach where one state has one rule and another has a different one. To be honest, companies have been preparing for this for a while.

Fifteen years ago, these companies would’ve been considered oil companies,

but now they’re oil and gas companies.

They figured out how to apply their core competencies and their existing infrastructure and apply it to gas in a lot of areas and still make a lot of money. So they see a huge opportunity to displace coal with gas. They’ve prepared their business for this transition, and now they need a price on carbon to help make that transition happen faster.

and we break our activities into five categories: development, lobbying, media outreach, and finally endorsements. That’s where the community leaders get involved.

Every community is different and has different influencers. That’s the power of having these local groups who know their community.

Tell me more about CCL. We’re organized by local chapter. Each chapter meets on a monthly basis typically

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Around the Region

Sacred Heart, UF launch kidney transplant program Sacred Heart Health System and University of Florida Health have collaborated to launch a new kidney transplant program to benefit the thousands of individuals across the Southeast currently awaiting a life-saving transplant.

“This is truly an extension of our mission to provide life-saving care to those who desperately need it,” said Susan Davis, president CEO of Sacred Heart Health System. “We are honored to collaborate with UF Health to provide the only kidney transplant program in northwest Florida, which will increase access to care for patients with end-stage renal disease.”

Throughout the southeastern United States the average time on a wait list for patients needing a kidney transplant is 73 months, according to the Scientific Registry of Transplant Recipients. Previously, northwest Florida residents had to travel to Gainesville, Birmingham or New Orleans in order to undergo kidney transplant, including the required pre-surgery and follow-up care. Sacred Heart Health System is a member of Ascension, the largest non-profit health system in the U.S. and the world’s largest Catholic health system.

Sacred Heart Health System and University of Florida Health are collaborating through the University of Florida College of Medicine’s division of abdominal transplant surgery in the department of surgery, which has performed kidney transplant operations since 1966.

The new kidney transplant program is led

by University of Florida kidney transplant surgeon Dr. Rick Brian Stevens and Renalus’ transplant nephrologist Dr. Douglas Scott Keith, who have a combined experience in kidney transplant of more than 40 years.

New account executive at Combined Insurance Reid Torgersen has joined Combined Insurance Services as an Account Executive. He recently graduated from Florida State University with a double major in Finance and Marketing. His previous employment includes internships with Baptist Health Care and Morgan Stanley. Reid specializes in handling individual health policies and employer group education.

IMPACT 100 announces winners IMPACT 100 Pensacola Bay Area, a local women’s philanthropy group, extends special congratulations to this year’s grant recipients. Each of the following organizations was awarded $108,200 today after a thorough grant review, committee process and membership vote: ARTS & CULTURE The Santa Rosa County Creek Indian Tribe, Inc. Project: Native American Cultural Center

The Greater Pensacola Junior Golf Association, Inc. dba The First Tee of Northwest Florida Project: Golf and Life Skills Training Facility

St. John’s Cemetery Historical and Educational Foundation, Inc. Project: The OUTDOOR MUSEUM at St. John’s Historic Cemetery

FAMILY MANNA Food Bank, Inc. dba Manna Food Pantries/MANNA Project: Fighting Hunger – Better, Faster, Stronger!

EDUCATION The Arc Gateway, Inc. Project: Jeff’s Corner Garden at The Arc Gateway Milk and Honey Outreach Ministries, Inc. Project: Building Precious GEMS ENVIRONMENT, RECREATION & PRESERVATION Northwest Florida Marine Education and Discovery of Gulf Ecosystems, Inc. (EDGE) Project: Coastal Conservation Corp

Studer Community Institute, Inc. Project: IMPACT Brain Bags HEALTH & WELLNESS PACE Center for Girls, Inc. Project: Go Reach Escambia Search and Rescue, Inc. Project: Sea, Air and Land Capabilities Improvement Initiative

“At the end of today, $8.318 million has been awarded to nonprofits in Escambia and Santa Rosa counties since 2004 in the form of significant grants that make a lasting impact,” said Cyndi Warren, President of IMPACT 100.

IMPACT 100 hopes to keep the momentum going into next year by increasing membership to more women in our 14th year of working with nonprofits in the community. To become a member of IMPACT 100 or review wish lists from finalists and grant applicants, please visit impact100pensacola. org.

Junior Achievement of Northwest Florida announces Hall of Fame laureates Junior Achievement of Northwest Florida announced today its annual award recipients for distinguished service to its mission.

The annual individual Hall of Fame Laureates for 2016 are Brian and Crystal Spencer and Sue Straughn.

This year’s Laureates were selected on criteria including support of Junior Achievement’s mission of inspiring young people to succeed in a global economy, volunteering in the classroom, assistance with fundraising for the organization, dedication to improving the community, and distinguished community leadership that directly impacts children.

The 2016 Business Leadership Hall of Fame awards include: Large Business of the Year: Regions Small Business of the Year: Cat Country 98.7 & NewsRadio 1620 Professional Firm of the Year: Bullock Tice Associates, Inc. Non-Governmental Organization of the Year: Northeast Pensacola Sertoma Volunteers of the Year: Keena Landrum, Monika Milleson, and Cindy Snow Hall of Fame Laureates are chosen each year by a special committee which consists of members from the Junior Achievement Board of Directors, staff, and volunteers. Past Junior Achievement Laureates also provide input for consideration by the selection committee.

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Around the Region

H. Britt Landrum, Jr. recognized for PEO industry leadership efforts The National Association of Professional Employer Organizations (NAPEO) has honored H. Britt Landrum, Jr., CEO of Landrum Human Resources, with the 2016 Michaeline A. Doyle Award for his leadership and outstanding contributions to the PEO Industry.

The award is given annually to an individual who has provided exemplary leadership and service, who has a reputation of fair and ethical dealings, who demonstrates a willingness to help others, who is active in his or her community, who devotes time and energy to improving industry efforts on a local or national basis.

Britt Landrum, Jr., began his business as a small job placement agency. Now in its 46th year, the company has grown from two internal staff members to more than 160 human resources professionals. With locations in Florida, South Carolina and North Carolina, and serving 44 states, the company provides comprehensive staffing services, human resources training and consulting, as well as PEO services. The company is a past recipient of the Florida Governor’s Sterling Award recognizing organizational excellence and for five years in a row was named by the national Society for Human Resource Management as one of the Top Twenty-Five Best Small Businesses to Work for in America.

PSC makes list of Top 100 Associate Degree Producers in nation Out of more than 5,500 colleges, Pensacola State College is on the list of Top 100 Associate Degree Producers, according to Community College Week magazine. This is the eighth straight year Pensacola State has received this national recognition.

Two-year and four-year institutions, both public and private, that award associate degrees were examined for the Top 100 list. The ranking is based on data collected by the U.S. Department of Education’s National Center for Education Statistics in the 2014-2015 academic year.

UWF College of Health adds synthetic cadavers to state-of-the-art lab Students in the University of West Florida College of Health now have the opportunity to gain an indepth understanding of the human body through the use of synthetic cadavers. The cadavers are part of the newly developed Applied Anatomy and Physiology Laboratory, housed within the Department of Exercise Science and Community Health.

The state-of-the-art lab was developed to impact students in all programs under the College of Health as they study individual and overlapping aspects of human health. Exercise science and athletic training students are able to use the SynDaver Anatomy Models to gain a spatial understanding of musculoskeletal interactions and neural and vascular systems while nursing students are afforded a more in-depth experience for intramuscular injections and intravenous line placements.

Students in the Doctor of Physical Therapy program are also utilizing the SynDavers for hands-on practice in helping patients through specific muscle movement exercises. Students from the public health, health sciences, medical laboratory sciences and psychology programs will also access them for discipline-specific, hands-on experiences.

The SynDaver is an education-grade synthetic human cadaver, complete with all bones, joints, muscles, organs and tendons in normal human anatomy and made from materials that mimic the mechanical, thermal and physicochemical properties of live tissue. Major nervous system and vascular components are also included.

The synthetic cadaver is an ideal alternative to human cadavers, allowing students in the College of Health to become familiar with the look and feel of a live human body without specialized facilities, risk of exposure to biohazards or compromising a live patient. UWF purchased three cadavers, costing $60,000 each, through the UWF Systemic Technology grant, which is funded by student technology fees.

Pensacola International Airport, Uber reach airport agreement The Pensacola International Airport reached an agreement with Uber that will allow the company to pick up arriving passengers at a designated Transportation Network Company (TNC) zone at the airport. This long-term partnership will provide a service that visitors and residents have been requesting at the airport. It also comes on the heels of a similar agreement reached with Destin-Ft. Walton Beach Airport last month. Official pick-ups will begin immediately.

Passengers can meet their Uber car and driver curbside at the designated TNC pick-up zone by simply following signage. Riders will be charged $2.50 per pick-up in addition to the cost of the ride.

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